University of Reddit : Introduction to Screenwriting

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Introduction to Screenwriting

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.

Lectures

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 1: Screenplay Terminology
Lesson 2: Types of Scripts
Lesson 2: Types of Scripts
Lesson 3: Building your Story
Lesson 3: Building your Story
Lesson 4: Creating Characters
Lesson 4: Creating Characters

Prerequisites

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.

Syllabus

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!

Additional information

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.

Teacher qualifications

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.

Latest Update

Film Class Forum (2013-05-02 09:46:34)

"Hi guys! I've set up a forum for this class and the other University of Reddit Film Classes here: http://qinema.com/forum/

Please register and feel free to start posting! I'd like to have it be the place for our class discussions and questions as it allows for more organization in topics and a more structured place to chat than /r/FilmClass or other subreddits. Thanks!

-Dwoi"

Roster

1. scarecrowboats
2. IntensityStudio