Crash Course in Screenwriting
The Crash Course in Screenwriting is a ten-module online introduction to the skills required to write a screenplay or a television script. We’ll give you generous and constructive feedback to assignments. Master the techniques and strategies you need to write like a professional.
When: Start on any Monday (from 12 February)
Where: Online via email
How: You’ll work with the facilitators one-on-one via email. The live Writer’s Circle sessions are held via Zoom
Description
What is the Screenwriting Crash Course?
The Crash Course in Screenwriting is a ten-part online course spread over five or ten weeks which introduces you to, and enables you to master the key skills and techniques of writing scripts for the big screen, or the small.
Course Overview
We will teach you
- to identify the dramatic imperative of scenes
- develop memorable characters
- write a killer opening scene
- write credible dialogue
- maintain the stakes
- create suspense
- think and write visually
- navigate the Hero’s Journey
Each module ends with an assignment, that we undertake to respond to with full notes and suggestions within 48 hours.
Who should you do this course?
Anyone who’s interested in film, or who’s considering establishing themselves as a writer for hire, or who simply wants to stretch their wings will benefit. The course will also serve writers of prose who want a fresh approach to writing.
How much time do you need to complete the course?
We encourage you to move at a fast pace and do the course over five weeks, but we are flexible and if that doesn't suit you you can do the course over ten weeks. Each module can be completed in about two hours, which includes viewing the clips we’ve referred you to, and reading our notes. If you have more time and want to into the subject in more depth we offer additional materials such as full scripts to read and suggested films to watch. The written component of each module is best done quickly, in half an hour or less.
Your course designers and facilitators
Michéle Rowe is a scriptwriter who has worked primarily as a head writer and story originator for television and film. Projects Michéle has originated, written or directed have been nominated for or won various awards, including an Oscar documentary and an International Emmy nomination. At present she works as a script editor, teaches screenwriting and is completing her third novel for Penguin. She has a Master’s Degree in Creative Writing from the University of Cape Town.
Richard Beynon is a story consultant and an award-winning film and television scriptwriter with a long and accomplished career in the industry. He has written for – or headed the storytelling teams of – many of country’s most popular soaps, dramas and comedies. These include S’gudi snaysi, Going Up, Soul City, Isidingo, Scandal, Rhythm City and Isibaya. A former journalist for the Rand Daily Mail, he has conceived, shaped and written scores of documentaries. He has lectured on writing for film and television at Wits.
With Michéle and Richard’s many decades of professional writing, film industry and teaching experience you’ll be in very capable hands.