Script Writing Workshop

If you want to learn about Script Writing in Sydney, then this course of 2 classes is for you.

This workshop guides you through the essentials of writing a screenplay for a feature film or a short. Discover how to create vivid characters with strong dialogue. Examining and discussing the latest films, work with new and practical techniques for building screen drama and comedy structure.

Agenda

During this course the intention is that the following topics will be covered, but not necessarily in the order given. Due to the flexible nature of Adult Education classes, parts of the curriculum may be adapted to suit the needs of the class.

During this course students will engage in the following:

  • Understand the differences between movies that are story driven and character driven.
  • Learn what makes protagonist character/s resonate.
  • Appreciate the importance of a strong antagonist.
  • Know the eight character archetypes appearing in story structure.
  • Find out what it takes to use and apply theme (ie know what your film is about.)
  • Learn structure by breaking down formula and finding the spine of the movie.
  • Know how to break rules and surprise audiences.
  • Explore the essentials of scene structure.
  • Understand dialogue surface and subtext.
  • Appreciate the power of editing and rewriting.
  • Know how to keep going to deliver a saleable script.
  • Understand how to pitch, sell and attract funding.
  • Talk about movies, films and shorts.

Objectives

The intended Learning Outcomes for this course are as follows.

  • Because any creative writing distils magic, no-one can guarantee that the student will write a film (or even a good film) after a course such as this. However you will emerge from this course with all of the tools to begin your own process. If you purchase the shooting script you will also have a standard industry format to use when your script is ready.
  • Students will have also contributed to a film story devised by the workshop. This exercise will give clear understanding of how to build characters and set them within a movie structure for a theme that engages audiences.
  • At the conclusion of the course, the student should be able to discuss and examine what makes recent and famous movies work and the role of the writer in those movies.
  • Students should also be able to understand how to write films that either honour or break the rules and subvert audience expectations. We’ll try to find out what audiences want and how to create it.

Other Information

  • The tutor will supply course notes at the end of the two day workshop but its crucial you bring a notebook and pen. For further information at close of course, tutor recommends several books.
  • The workshop includes an examination of structure using the feature-length movie AMERICAN BEAUTY which is rated MA 15+. It has adult themes, medium level violence and drug use. There is also some nudity.
  • It’s a good idea to see the movie before beginning the course or between weeks one and two.
  • It is helpful but optional to have a copy of the shooting script in its original format.
  • David will take orders after the first week and can supply this script, with extensive notes on structure and characterisation, for the price of $42. He will also supply, free of charge, extensive notes on writing for the screen. Included in the notes is a list of recommended reference books for future use


Design & Technology Ctr, cnr Gordon St & Victoria Rd, Rozelle. If driving, no left turn into Gordon St, so turn left into Lilyfield Rd, then first right into Gordon St.

PLS NOTE: All classes need a minimum number of students to go ahead. If your course does not have enough students it will be cancelled and you will be informed.***Please be aware that you maybe be informed of a cancellation &/or change via SMS or E-mail.