Thomas Cartier's Intro to Screenwriting class went way beyond my expectations. We studied various approaches to screenwriting and discussed what makes good writing in general. Tom was able to teach us how to analyze films for structure and rhythm and see beyond the image and emotion. He also encouraged us to dive in and write almost immediately and to try out different forms. He is so committed to his students that he even took the time to turn a few pages of my prose story into a screenplay! Overall, the class was engaging, fun, and inspiring. I'd recommend Tom's classes to anyone thinking of getting into film writing.
- Danni, Intro to Screenwriting
An Introduction to the Fundamentals of Screenwriting is taught by local professional screenwriter Thomas Cartier. He will lead students through the fundamental aspects of screenwriting for films, once a week for 8 weeks, beginning Friday August 6th, 2021, 4- 6 pm. Alternatively, students may select an option for individual 1-on-1 tutoring, which will be conducted with one hour meetings online, or in person over the span of 6 weeks. Contact us for details and availability.
During the course, students will learn the fundamentals of how to write a screenplay for a short film. Topics explored include screenwriting fundamentals (such as conflict, beginning/middle/end), finding the story spark and discovering what you want to say (theme), creating compelling characters, techniques to write a successful short film (vs the feature format), implementing successful visual storytelling, crafting well constructed scenes utilizing POV, dialogue, structure, and style, and understanding the basic formatting of a script. By the end of class, students will have written a complete short script, and have the beginnings of a feature screenplay.
Cost for the course is $530 ($424 for Alumni), and the registration form is found below. A $50 non-refundable deposit will be needed to secure the registration. In-person instruction will be conducted according to our Social-Distancing Policy for Covid-19, including increased distance, masks and/or face shields, and increased sanitizing.
Intro to Screenwriting (or comparable previous coursework) will be a prerequisite for Intermediate Screenwriting, which will be a prerequisite for Advanced Workshopping. Contact us to see how to apply!
