This course wil cover the basics of screenwriting, targeted to those unfamiliar with the format and software used. The class aims to give you a good understanding of story structure as well as the more technical aspects such as when to indent or when to use parentheticals. Keep in mind that this is an introductory course. Future classes dealing with more intermediate and advanced aspects of screenwriting are planned.
- Lesson 1: Terminology
Hello and welcome! I've added a new first lesson on terminology and just put it up on the /r/FilmClass subreddit. I hope you all find this helpful! Here's the link below:
- Lesson 2: Types of Scripts
- Lesson 3: Building your Story
- Lesson 4: Creating Characters
No prerequisites. It is suggested that you have some familiarity with using word processors and similar applications as you'll be working with software resembling the likes of Microsoft Word or TextEdit.
The class will consist of video lessons uploaded on youtube and/or vimeo and posted on the /r/FilmClass page. The lesson plan is as follows:
Part 1: Terminology
Part 2: Types of Scripts
Part 3: Building your Story
Part 4: Creating Characters
Part 5: Feature Screenplay Formatting
Part 6: Software – CeltX
Part 7: Software – Final Draft
Part 8: Software – Scrivener
Part 9: Screenplay Structure
Part 10: Important Tips
Bonus: Basic A/V Script Formatting
Part 11: Additional Resources
After the final lesson, you will be given an optional assignment to write a script up to 5 pages in length and you will be allowed to submit the screenplay for free coverage through my script coverage service. This will prove you with a letter grade and breakdown of your script as well as notes letting you know what works and what doesn't work. It is suggested that your final script be a contained work, but it's fine if you prefer to write the first 5 pages of a feature. Just keep structure in mind!
If you currently have no Screenwriting Software, my suggestion is to download the free software, CeltX: www.celtx.com
Final Draft http://www.finaldraft.com/ is the industry standard and would be a good purchase if you fully intend on screenwriting professionally. If you're a student, there is a discount available: http://www.writersstore.com/final-draft-screenwriting-software?source=g-fd-student?cid=1820&gclid=CJKxjoi4x7ECFaQaQgodERMAHQ And even if you're not, you can always download the free trial.
I studied film production at 2 art universities in the US and worked for 3 school summers at a production company and post house in Washington, DC. I later did the video marketing for a Century21 company covering most of the DC area, Northern Virginia, and Southern Maryland and shot weddings on weekends. I ICed (worked as an independent contractor) for a number of corporate marketing companies, doing videography primarily in the DC and New York areas and did Director of Photography work whenever I could find it, shooting a couple independent documentaries, a TV pilot, and recording live performances for a few small DC area theaters. I recorded referendums and events held by the Government of South Sudan in DC, primarily for a non-profit helping build schools between the two Sudans (this was prior to South Sudan's full independence) and was the only videographer given full access to the funeral of NBA star Manute Bol. Currently own a production company in New Mexico which covers services such as Digital Cinema Package preparation (the format used to screen digital movies in cinemas,) Marketing Videos, Logo Deign, and Equipment Rentals. More relevant to this class, we run a screenplay coverage service which you will be allowed to use for free if you'd like to do the final, optional assignment.



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