Screenwriting Essentials

Alfred Hitchcock said you need three things to make a film: a script, a script, and a script. Many professional creatives also subscribe to the philosophy that you can make a bad movie from a good script, but you can’t make a good movie from a bad script.

The objective of this class is to acquaint you with the fundamentals and foundational techniques of screenwriting, with an emphasis on three-act structure and characterization. Each student will complete a narrative outline and a script for a short film. Students will learn about professional standards and best industry practices through table readings, one-on-one conferences, and peer revision techniques.

This class is perfect for aspiring screenwriters, storytellers, and anyone with a passion for crafting compelling narratives. Whether you are a novice writer eager to explore the world of screenwriting or a seasoned writer looking to refine your skills, this course is designed to provide a solid foundation in the fundamentals of storytelling, structure, and character development. It is an ideal choice for individuals aiming to create engaging short films and learn the art of effective screenwriting.

Course Note: No Prerequisite Required.

Questions? Check out our FAQ page.

What You Will Walk Away With

• The opportunity to submit your original work to be read in front of industry professionals at the end-of-semester showcase.
  • End of Semester Showcase -Students, alone or in groups, can submit original works to be screened, table read, performed etc. in front of school and industry professionals.
• Qualification to apply for Trilith Institute’s Creative Excellence Fellowship Grant.
  • Complete 3 of our professional education courses, and you will receive a “Trilith Institute Outstanding Achievement in Film Arts.” In addition, if you have completed 3 courses and our Mastering Self-Marketing Workshop, you will be qualified to submit an original project for our Creative Excellence Fellowship Grant, with a potential award of up to $10,000.
• A polished original script, marketing materials, and a plan to produce the film as well as a submission for public dissemination
• A tour of Trilith Studios
• Discounts to Trilith Institute workshops while enrolled.