This course offers a non-formulaic approach to the screenwriting discipline. The emphasis is on character, structure, effective dialogue techniques and writing for the actor and the camera. Using weekly writing exercises and working with written scenes "on their feet" in a rehearsal setting, students learn both the pragmatic and the creative aspects of sustaining tension, and crafting stories and characters for film. NOTE: This course is open to Culture & Media and Screen Studies students only. Non-majors may seek instructor permission. [Track S]

For students who have already mastered the basics of screen production work, this course advances the art of screenwriting. The emphasis is on writing effective dialogue, constructing scenes, narrative arc, writing for the camera and writing for actors. The course will contain exercises to stimulate students' screenwriting abilities, analysis of produced screenplays and films, and group work on improving scripts. NOTE: This course is open to Culture & Media and Screen Studies students only. Non-majors may seek instructor permission. [Track S]

For students who have already learned the basics of screenwriting and film production, this course is modeled around the functioning of the Writer's Room on an episodic series. Students will participate collaboratively, write independently, and develop a series together. Emphasis will be placed on story arc and structure; the interweaving of character threads; and the intersection of themes. Students will learn how a Writer's Room works; and study will be made of one season of a current episodic show, its components broken down and challenged. NOTE: This course is open to Culture & Media and Screen Studies students only. Non-majors may seek instructor permission. [Track S]