Cinema: Screenwriting
Introduction to Cinematic Storytelling (SCRN 1101)
Total Credits:
3
Lecture Credits:
3.00
Description:
This course provides an introduction to the basic elements of fictional cinematic storytelling with an emphasis on the techniques and craft that distinguish screenwriting from other forms of writing. You will complete a series of specific scripted scenes using the master scene screenwriting format and implementing such elements as character, mood, and rhythm.
Prerequisites:
Admission into the Cinema Division. Placement into ENGL 1110 or completion of ENGL 0900 or ESOL 0051.
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Writing the Short Fiction Screenplay (SCRN 1102)
Total Credits:
3
Lecture Credits:
3.00
Description:
Drawing heavily on the basics learned in Screenwriting 1101, this class will examine advanced storytelling techniques and the specific art of dialogue writing. You are expected to develop, draft and rewrite a short fiction script.
Prerequisites:
SCRN 1101.
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Script Analysis and Structure (SCRN 2103)
Total Credits:
4
Lecture Credits:
3.00
Lab Credits:
1.00
Description:
This course focuses on mastering the dramatic narrative structure through a combination of lectures, scene rewrites from movies, location scenes and analysis of professional screenplays with detailed comparison to the produced movies. You will analyze two professional scripts and one short student script, rewrite several scenes from produced features and develop two scripts based on visited locations.
Prerequisites:
CIPR 1102, CIST 1102, SCRN 1102 and ENGL 1111.
Co-requisites:
SCRN 2104.
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Writing Nonfiction Scripts (SCRN 2104)
Total Credits:
4
Lecture Credits:
3.00
Lab Credits:
1.00
Description:
This course introduces you to the nonfictional forms and structures in screenwriting: documentaries, television shows, industrial, corporate videos, educational and training movies, commercials, news, and other programs from the alternative markets. You will research, develop and complete several short nonfictional scripts: a documentary, three commercials and one public service announcement.
Prerequisites:
CIPR 1102, CIST 1102, SCRN 1102 and ENGL 1111.
Co-requisites:
SCRN 2103.
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Writing the Fictional Feature-Length Script (SCRN 2105)
Total Credits:
4
Lecture Credits:
3.00
Lab Credits:
1.00
Description:
This class introduces you to the dramatic fictional feature-length screenplay. You will research, develop, plot, structure and draft a feature-length fictional script, through all the required professional steps: ideation, characterization, synopsis, treatment, breakdowns, etc. A finished draft is required for graduation.
Prerequisites:
SCRN 2103 and SCRN 2104.
Co-requisites:
SCRN 2106.
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Screenwriting Practicum (SCRN 2106)
Total Credits:
4
Lecture Credits:
3.00
Lab Credits:
1.00
Description:
This course focuses on three major activities: exploring the fundamental principles and the legal aspects of the business as they relate to the screenwriting profession; analyzing the feature scripts developed in
SCRN 2105 and their structure; and learning how to orally pitch a feature idea or a script to professionals. Using concepts from classical and contemporary dramatic structures, you will learn how to write, rehearse and pitch your script to professional producers and directors from New York or Los Angeles.
Prerequisites:
SCRN 2103 and SCRN 2104.
Co-requisites:
SCRN 2105.
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Internship Lab (SCRN 2107)
Total Credits:
2
Lab Credits:
1.00
Internship/Practicum Credits:
1.00
Description:
This internship connects you with local organizations such as The Minnesota Film and Television Board, The Independent Feature Project Minnesota, The screenwriters Workshop, the McKnight Foundation and other local film and video organizations. You will participate for one semester in the industry as Reader/Story Analyst, write professional coverages for original scripts and get the unique chance to participate in the preproduction of local and national cinema projects filmed in town. Internships are available only to second-year degree students and may be repeated.
Prerequisites:
SCRN 2103 and SCRN 2104.
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Advanced Screenwriting Lab (SCRN 2108)
Total Credits:
3
Lab Credits:
3.00
Description:
This lab is intended to provide you with the opportunity to write, rewrite or complete the writing of specifically designed projects to complement your knowledge and experience, and critique and analyze the ongoing script projects. You will be required to make a plan and complete your project as agreed between you and your instructor. Must be taken A-F.
Prerequisites:
SCRN 1101.
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