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Screenwriting 4: The Longer Script Format (CINE 2320)
Total Credits:
3
Lecture Credits:
2
Lab Credits:
1
Description:
This class introduces you to the longer narrative script formats: feature, episodic TV, Movie of the Week, TV series, etc. You will research, develop, plot, structure and draft a longer script form of your choice, using all the required professional steps: ideation, characterization, synopsis, treatment, breakdowns, etc. A minimum of 30 pages of the draft of a feature, one-hour episodic TV project, or 30-page short script is required for graduation. The class will also explore the fundamental principles and the legal aspects of the business as they relate to the screenwriting profession, including an introduction to pitching. Must be taken A - F.
Topical Outline:
1. The tools and skills of screenwriting: genres, ideation, synopsis, characterization, treatment and breakdown
2. The world of a story: Protagonist, antagonist, objective, conflict, empathy and main tension
3. Story vs. plot: Theme, premise, tension, plausibility, activity and action.
4. Writing and rewriting using the twenty-one principles and the Ninety-Nine questions
5. The legal issues that pertain to the screenwriting profession: Copyright protection, agents, managers, lawyers and the WGA.
6. Pitching as a creative and sales tool.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Demonstrate a broad understanding of the screenwriting techniques and structure in long narrative storytelling
2. Create believable characters with powerful drives, existing premises and sophisticated conflicts, obstacles and plots
3. Write longer form stories with meaningful directions and dialogue, an appropriate mood and atmosphere, the necessary emotions, and powerful cinematic imagery
4. Write and pitch your longer-form final project
Prerequisites:
CINE 2220