Screenwriting Essentials I
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.
Please note: students do have graded assignments, assessments, and projects and will receive a final grade in this course. Grades demonstrate a student’s ability to apply their understanding and mastery of concepts taught in this course. Trilith Institute instructors have a wealth of knowledge as they come with expertise in the film and entertainment industry.
Course Note: No Prerequisite Required.
WHAT YOU WILL WALK AWAY WITH
- The opportunity to share your original work to be read in front of industry professionals at the end-of-semester showcase.
- A polished original script, marketing materials, and a plan to produce the film.
- Access to professional script writing software while enrolled.
- Eligibility to apply for Trilith Institute’s Creative Excellence Fellowship Grant.*
- 15% off Trilith Institute workshops for 6 months after course enrollment.
- A tour of Trilith Studios!
*Those receiving a grade of 80 (B) or above in the course will receive a “Certificate of Completion”. Complete 3 of the Trilith Institute’s Professional Education Courses, and you will receive “Trilith Institute Outstanding Achievement in Film Arts.” In addition, if you have completed 3 courses and our Mastering Self-Marketing workshop, you will be eligible to submit an original project for consideration for our Creative Excellence Fellowship Grant, with a potential award of up to $10,000.
Questions? Check out our FAQ page.
