Introduction to Screenwriting

Catalog description

In this course, students learn the art and craft of short and long subject screenwriting (short film, feature film, television, multimedia, VR, gaming, transmedia, etc.). Time will be spent on screenwriting basics, including, but not limited to: pitching, writing treatments, story/act structures, characterization, theme, plot, format, dialogue, adaptation, crossing platforms and scene description via lecture, discussion, close analysis, workshopping and instructor-peer critique. Not only will students work creatively on idea generation and visual storytelling, but on how to meaningfully connect with an audience. Course topics include: (1) 3(+) Act structure, (2) characterization and character relationships; (3) dialogue, subtext, and exposition; (4) conflict, establishing stakes, and obstacles; (5) plot development (set-ups and payoffs); (6) developing structure, format, and writing across genres, to name a few. Award-winning films and screenplays are used as examples for in-depth analysis. Students will choose a writing option tailored to their interest (short film, feature, TV pilot, webseries, VR, game scripts, etc.) as part of their final project.