screen and playwriting. summer 2010.

Contrary to popular opinion, it’s not easy to just “buy a book” and write a compelling screenplay. The best screenplays require discipline and an attention to detail, voice and narrative that works your writing muscles. This intermediate level course is for those who are familiar with the fundamentals of screenwriting – and the various structures and “formulas” of the genre – and who want to turn their drafts into better, more memorable and marketable scripts and treatments. Open to anyone with working knowledge of screenwriting fundamentals, including those who’ve taken the Screenwriting I course or the “Screenwriting Primer” or “Screenwriting Made Simple” weekend workshops.

Most scripts aren't terrible, just terribly mediocre. The characters are too familiar, the execution is clichéd, and the plot doesn't build to an inevitable boiling point. Tepid stories are usually due to the writer relying on superficial, predictable character types instead of delving deeply into the whys of their actions. A successful story—even a comedy—imbues its characters with complexity, pushes them to the edge of reason, and compels them to face their deepest, darkest fears. In this workshop, you will learn to intensify plot by creating complex, captivating, and enigmatic characters that audiences not only will care about, but will be haunted by for days afterward. The workshop will utilize lecture, interactive writing exercises, and clips from a number of great movies. Bring your informal pitches, screenplay ideas, or the first ten pages of a script in progress, and additional copies for the group.

Visiting Grub Street from L.A., award-winning producer and manager Marilyn Atlas will spend three hours demystifying the process of screenwriting as well as sharing her insider’s opinion on elements of what makes a good screenplay. Her focus, craft-wise, will be on how to create non-stereotypical characters. Her focus, business-wise, is on your questions and concerns. Join us in welcoming this special guest and sit back for what is sure to be an entertaining and informative evening with someone who knows the business better than just about anyone.