Screenplay 101 - From Idea to Screen

In this class, you'll learn the basics of screenplays, including what a screenplay is and screenplay formatting.

At the end of this lecture, please read one of the screenplays from the link below to familiarize yourself with what a screenplay looks like and transcribe at least 5 pages.

In addition to the video lecture and the homework materials, this section includes documents that describe screenplay format, the different elements of a screenplay, and the slide show.

In this class you'll learn about how to come up with good ideas and what constitutes a good idea.

At the end of this class, you'll be tasked with coming up with your own good idea using the "Pixar" method described during the lecture.

In addition to this lecture, the class slides have been included as a resource.

Students will learn how to take their idea and begin to develop their idea into a feature-length screenplay. We will be looking at things such as theme, central dramatic question, budget, genre, tone, and much more!

At the end of this lecture, you will fill out your own screenplay questionnaire to begin to develop your idea! Please make sure to watch either Kung Fu Panda or Thelma and Louise before the next class!

In addition to the lecture and the homework assignment, the class slides and links have been provided to you as a resource!

Students will learn what the major moments are in a screenplay and how to properly structure a movie.

At the end of this lecture, you will come up with the major moments for your screenplay!

In addition to the lecture and the homework assignment, the class notes, supplemental links, the major moments break down of Kung Fu Panda and Thelma and Louise, as well as a major moments cheat sheet has been provided for you as a resource.

Students will learn how to develop strong and interesting characters. Don't forget to use the test worksheet as a fun way to help further define your character!

After this class, you will fill out the character breakdown exercise to help you develop your characters.

In addition to the lecture and homework assignment, the class notes have been provided to you as a resource.

Students will learn how to outline their screenplays.

At the end of this lecture, you will begin to outline your own screenplay.

In addition to the lecture and the notes, the class notes have been provided as a resource.

Students will learn tools to create their own writing schedule, learn how to write visually, and how to write effective action.

In addition to the lecture, the class notes and supplemental links (in conjunction with the lecture have been provided).

Students will learn tools to help them begin writing dialogue.

In addition to the lecture, the class notes and supplemental links (in conjunction with the lecture have been provided).

Students will learn more about formatting and begin writing their opening beat.

In addition to the lecture, the class notes and supplemental links (in conjunction with the lecture have been provided).