Miasma

London, 1931. In the heart of a city steeped in mystery and intrigue, a seasoned private investigator, known for his keen eye and relentless pursuit of the truth, teams up with the enigmatic Viola, a talented actress whose beauty and charm captivate all who cross her path. Their mission is to uncover the whereabouts of a missing heiress, a young woman of considerable wealth and influence who has mysteriously vanished without a trace. As the investigator delves deeper into the case, he quickly realizes that the disappearance is shrouded in layers of deception and hidden agendas. The investigation takes them through the shadowy underbelly of London, from glitzy theaters and lavish parties to the dimly lit back alleys where secrets are traded like currency. Along the way, they encounter a host of colorful characters, including jealous rivals, ambitious socialites, and even a few dubious figures from the criminal world, each with their own motives and potential connections to the heiress's disappearance. As they piece together the clues, the tension between the investigator and Viola begins to simmer, revealing a complex web of emotions that complicates their professional relationship. Despite the growing romantic tension, doubts linger in the investigator's mind. He can't shake the feeling that Viola might be more involved in the heiress's disappearance than she lets on. Her past is filled with shadows, and as he uncovers more about her life, he is torn between his feelings for her and his duty to find the truth. The screenplay for "Miasma," penned by the talented Ellen M. Puff, masterfully weaves together elements of suspense, romance, and drama, creating a rich narrative that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The story not only explores the dynamics of their partnership but also delves into themes of trust, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of a city that never sleeps.

Ellen M. Puff earned her Bachelor of Speech from Northwestern University's Theatre Department, where she studied under two Tony Award-winning directors. Following her time at Northwestern, she furthered her education at ACT in San Francisco and gained experience as a production assistant in LA. She has been involved in producing, directing, and adapting literature for the stage in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Minneapolis.

Additionally, she worked as a dramaturge at the O’Neill National Play Writing Festival alongside the late Pulitzer Prize-winning author August Wilson. Ms. Puff holds a Master's degree in Education and is a licensed teacher of high school English, Speech, and Theatre. 34 awards in '24-'25, including Best Screenplay in Sydney, Berlin, Sweden, and Toronto; finalist in Berlin, London, New York, Paris, the Big Break competition, and Santa Barbara.