Screenwriting basics
By Yulia Buzhinskaya
WEEK 1
Script’s basics
How to analyse a script, where to start” (Essential terms, elements of the script, inciting incident, point of no return, spine of the story, central question, conflict)
WEEK 2
“Structure”
(Types of the structure, 3 act structure, midpoint, micro-turning points, opposing charges, central plot line, central subplot, multiple subplots, how to understand whether the script is too long/short)
WEEK 3
Plot”
(3 act structure through the lens of the context, 4 plot techniques, Archplot, Miniplot, Anti-plot, exposition, voice-over narration, flashbacks)
WEEK 4
“Characters”
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(Character’s goal, obstacle, function, flaw, arc, types of characters, three-dimensional characters)
WEEK 5
“Dialogue”
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(Types of dialogue, dramatised, narratised, functions of dialogue, types of sentences)
WEEK 6
“Concept and Marketability”
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(Marketability factors, types of concept)
WEEK 7
“Short films, TV series, plays”
(5 act structure, A-story, cliffhanger)
WEEK 8
Final Feedback & Review
FROM IDEA TO FINISHED DRAFT IN 8 WEEKS!
By Craig Thorpe
WEEK 1
Friday : Writing Dialogue exercise.
ready for the Wednesday Actors workshop.
Have your script performed by actors. Recorded for you to view back and receive feedback.
WEEKS 2- 3
Module 1
Group Icebreaker, Introduction to “Crafting Drama” , log lines & the importance of stakes. A Dialogue writing exercise will be set out and then performed by members of the Leeds Acting workshop for writers to watch and receive feedback.
Group Call & Icebreaker
WEEKS 3 - 4
Module 2
Key beats and introduction to beat sheets. Writers will research a script/film/pilot and discuss in their 1 to 1.
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The 1 to 1 will discuss the writers key beats and beat sheet.
1 to 1's
WEEKS 4 - 5
Module 3
Structured storytelling across the three act structure . Writers will fill in as much of their beat sheet
1 to 1's
WEEKS 6 - 7
SCRIPT WRITING!
After a one to one to prep you and answer any other questions. It's time to knuckle down and get your draft done. The timer is on!
WEEK 8
Final feedback given in one to ones. Group feedback. and wrap up in readiness for the next 8 week course.
Final 1 to 1