Make your screenplay speak in visual, cinematic terms
Focus on enhancing character turning points
Analyze dramatic tension from start to finish
Ensure the first and last 10 pages of the script bookend your story effectively
About this course:
This course focuses on strengthening elements of the feature film screenplay derived from the principles taught in the Fundamentals of Story course. Every week, a segment of the screenplay is workshopped in class with feedback from the instructor and guided critique from class peers. Special attention is given to the tasks of making the work visual, as well as building unique characters through dialogue and behavior, including an advanced critique of structure, as well as an examination of selected elements of filmmaking. Students find the best way to build dramatic tension through each act, focusing on creating powerful turning points for the central characters. The crucial first ten pages, as well as final pages are analyzed and revised to find the best possible springboard and conclusion for the story, incorporating relevant dramatic questions. By the end of the course, students have a final draft of their screenplay forged by this process of thorough revision, providing a significant step towards submission to industry professionals.
Prerequisites
The completed feature film draft you wish to rewrite in this course is required to apply.
Spring 2025 Schedule
Date & Time
Details
Format
-
Saturday 10:00AM - 1:00PM PT
Future Offering (Opens February 03, 2025 12:00:00 AM)
Enrollment limited to 12 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted.
$100 non-refundable. Enrollment discounts limited to WP NOW members; no other discounts apply.
The priority deadline for applications is March 3, 2025. Applications submitted after this date are not guaranteed consideration.
This course is held via video teleconference. Instructors use Zoom to offer live class meetings at the designated class meeting time. Students must be present at the course meeting time as each student’s final grade may include scores for participation. Please inform your instructor if you will miss a class meeting. You are responsible for any class information you missed. We suggest you arrange with a fellow classmate to share their notes when feasible.
Instructions for Submitting to Advanced-Level Courses:
Click on “Enroll” then follow the prompts to check out and create a new account, or enter your information as a returning student. Then, follow the remaining instructions below:
At the “Contact Information” Page, be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page and initial both boxes under “Privacy Policies.” Continue Checkout.
Click “Start” on the first Application page.
On the 2nd Application page, click “Start” on the bottom left side of the page.
NOTE: despite being asked to enter payment information, YOU WILL NOT BE CHARGED for this course unless you choose to enroll if / when you receive a notice of acceptance for the course. In other words, it’s 100% free to apply. The full course fee will be due up front to register, prior to attending the course. Since enrollment is restricted there are no applicable discountable promos available for this course.
Selection notices will likely be distributed via email 1 to 2 weeks before the class is scheduled to start. In the meantime, you can also register for alternative open-enrollment course and transfer upon your acceptance.
Refund Deadline
No refunds after March 29, 2025
Course Requirements
Internet required to retreive course materials.
Schedule
Type
Date
Time
Location
Online
Sat Apr 5, 2025
10:00AM PT - 1:00PM PT
Remote ClassroomRemote Learning
Online
Sat Apr 12, 2025
10:00AM PT - 1:00PM PT
Remote ClassroomRemote Learning
Online
Sat Apr 19, 2025
10:00AM PT - 1:00PM PT
Remote ClassroomRemote Learning
Online
Sat Apr 26, 2025
10:00AM PT - 1:00PM PT
Remote ClassroomRemote Learning
Online
Sat May 3, 2025
10:00AM PT - 1:00PM PT
Remote ClassroomRemote Learning
Online
Sat May 10, 2025
10:00AM PT - 1:00PM PT
Remote ClassroomRemote Learning
Online
Sat May 17, 2025
10:00AM PT - 1:00PM PT
Remote ClassroomRemote Learning
Online
Sat May 24, 2025
10:00AM PT - 1:00PM PT
Remote ClassroomRemote Learning
Online
Sat May 31, 2025
10:00AM PT - 1:00PM PT
Remote ClassroomRemote Learning
Online
Sat Jun 7, 2025
10:00AM PT - 1:00PM PT
Remote ClassroomRemote Learning
Contact Us
Speak to a student advisor. Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm.
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