Screenwriting, also called scriptwriting, is the art and craft of writing scripts for videos, feature films, or television productions. A writer can create a script that is based on an original idea, or they can create a script from a concept, true story, or an existing literary work, such as a novel, poem, play, comic book or short story, that they have the rights to adapt. A screenplay by itself is not a final product; it is used as a blueprint during the Video Production process by the Director to craft their vision for the story.
In this introductory course, topics covered will include the following areas: dramatic structure and script elements, writing dynamic action and strong dialogue, developing characters, the importance of rewrites and how to receive notes on your work, how to craft a logline and pitch your idea. We will also do writing exercises to use the skills acquired in the workshop and discuss other learning and community resources.
This course is divided into 4 consecutive Tuesdays to give participants a week between classes in order to complete homework.
Course Outline
- Week 1- Introduction to Writing elements
- Week 2 - Writing effective Action and Dialogue
- Week 3 - Plot and Story shape
- Week 4 - Writing for production and review
Materials
- A laptop with a microphone and/or webcam and an internet connection*
- Zoom Account (register for the free account here). Link for the virtual classroom will be sent to participants on Monday August 3rd.
*Virtual Participation
This course is an interactive learning experience. Much like our in person courses, we expect that all participants are engaging and interacting with the instructor and other participants throughout the course's duration. This means interested registrants must have access to a webcam or microphone and have them both on to be eligible to participate. You can expect each course to have introductions, room for questions and discussion.
If group interaction is not necessarily something you are comfortable with we encourage you to access our free archived workshops.