Build-A-Writer

Classes on Sundays @ 3p PST / 6p EST
November Dates: Starts November 24th (11/24, 12/1, 12/8, 12/15)

This 4-week lecture course will dive into multiple TV pilots and their scripts. Think of this as a screenwriting lecture with a script analysis element. 

Before the first class, you'll be asked to watch a pilot. Then we'll use it to go through the different major beats and primary character engine. You'll then be asked to read the script of that pilot as homework and to identify the very aspects talked about in the course. Each class will teach a new aspect with new questions and perspectives, all while watching and reading pilots. 

This course is not about improving your script (directly). Many courses provide writers' room-type classes with a short lecture and a notes section of your script, improving the script more than the writer. The goal of this class is to improve you as a writer: to recognize script issues faster, strengthen your writing tools, and force you to read professional scripts more (an important habit to have as a writer).

Each week covers a different stage of your development as a writer:

• Week 1: The Engine
• Week 2: A Character’s World & Conflict
• Week 3: Writing in Style
• Week 4: Different Structures

By the end of the course, you'll be able to take these tools to your original scripts to help you rewrite or start a new idea from scratch.

Recommended For: 

• Writers who want to improve & expand their writing toolkit/skills
• Writers who want more accountability in reading more professional scripts
• Anyone who enjoys script analysis
• Anyone who wants to improve their script coverage or notes

NOT Recommended For: 

• Writers looking for notes on their scripts
• This course will encourage writers to work on skills and tools taught in class on their current scripts. We will not be giving notes on your scripts, but you will be encouraged to speak about your experiences applying the tools to your scripts and what you've been able to identify in the process.