Screenwriting Beginners Online Short Course
Course description
Course overview
Ever wanted to write a script, but don’t know where to begin? Then this course is for you!
Covering everything from that first idea to tackling that tricky rewrite, this introductory course is designed to demystify the whole process and get you writing.
Learn the tricks of the trade in a fun and supportive environment from a screenwriter and tutor with writing credits on TV, radio and shorts and over 20 years teaching experience.
Who this course is for
This course is suitable for beginners with an interest in screenwriting. Whether you want to write commercial screenplays or break the mold, this course will teach you the basic principles.
Key information
Topics covered
- We will work on taking your ideas from that first spark to working out its ideal form (is it a short film, a feature or a TV pilot?).
- We will look at the importance in mapping out your story before writing it, whether through a treatment/outline, note cards or 'mind maps'.
- We will examine classic theories of story structure and see how they can work for you.
- We will look at the dialogue and the challenges of making it sound authentic rather than 'written'.
- We will look at the role genre plays and how it can be used (and subverted) to engage your prospective audience.
- Please note while the course has a weekly presentation/lecture element, attendees are strongly encouraged to bring their own ideas and work in progress (though we may only have time to look at short pitches and scenes rather full scripts). After all, the best way to learn to write a script is to write a script!
Learning outcomes
- Understand the process and basic principles of screenwriting
- Understand practical elements such as: formatting, outlining and (when you feel your work is ready) how best to approach the industry's 'gatekeepers' (producers, development execs, agents etc.)
- How to develop an idea into a script
- Understand mapping out of a story
- Receive a digital badge and certificate of attendance
Materials
Course Specific Materials:
- You may wish to buy (or download a free trial version) screenwriting software such as Fade In or Final Draft. This is not a requirement.
- You are also encouraged to bring an idea (or ideas) that you would like to develop into a script (whether for a feature, short or TV pilot).
- While the course uses an eclectic range of clips (which may change according to the group's areas of interest) two features that are often referenced are 'Little Miss Sunshine' and Billy Wilder's 'The Apartmen' so you may wish to watch those ahead of time.
- That said, there are no specific films that you must watch. Finally, I would also recommend getting in the habit of reading recent screenplays (https://www.scriptslug.com is a particularly good resource).
Please see our Guide to taking online short courses.
Tutor
David Lemon
David Lemon's screenwriting credits include FAINTHEART (Film4) starring Eddie Marsan and CONTAINMENT, a pandemic thriller on Netflix.
He has also written for BBC1 continuing drama, childrens TV and for Radio 4, including the’The Man In Black' radio horror series starring Mark Gatiss. His work has also been developed by Hat Trick Productions and Clerkenwell Films.
David has lectured on screenwriting at The National Film and Television School, The Metfilm School, London Film Academy, University For The Creative Arts and The London Film School.
He also produced documentaries on such classic British films as THE 39 STEPS, THE RED SHOES and BRIEF ENCOUNTER.
He is represented by The Dench Arnold Agency.
Book a course
Loading