Screenwriting

FPFV- The starting point of this discipline is the
intention to create a working screenwriting
practice dictated by the needs of each story being
told and that rejects the "one size fits all"
formulaic school of screenwriting. There is no
magic bullet (or formula), but there is an
enlightening, fun and fulfilling way to tease the
story into being and into filmic form and that is
the practice this class cultivates. Each story
has its own unique organic flow and the instructor
will guide the student in discovering it.
The class takes a two-pronged approach to
screenwriting and structuring both fictional &
documentary stories utilizing the construction of
a solid narrative combined with the creation of
compelling characters who propel the narrative
forward. The class is not a lecture class, it is
primarily a workshop - the practice is created by
writing, not talking about writing. The student
will receive highly individualized instruction in
a group setting. With the guidance of the
instructor and open class discussion, each student
will write a first- draft feature-length
screenplay over the course of the semester (or
more, if the student takes the class again). With
discipline, the writer can finish a completed
screenplay. Writing begins immediately.
Additionally, we will explore what makes movies
work (or not) by viewing and analyzing films that
are examples of great or not-so-great
screenwriting. Priority given to upper level PFV
students, but those who feel strongly called to
the discipline of screenwriting can make a case
for early entry.