Class

Introduction to Screenwriting

Are you sitting on a brilliant movie idea but struggling to get it out of your head and onto the page? This hands-on, online course is designed to take you from a blank screen to the start ofa polished, industry-standard (10 or 30 page) script. Led by Lauren Peacock, a working writer and producer with over 15 years of industry experience, this class uses a variety of visual activities, discussions, and optional reading material.

Instead of getting bogged down in theory, we focus on the practical architecture of storytelling using the principles of Syd Field's renowned "Paradigm." Through interactive in-class film screenings and live script breakdowns, you will learn to pinpoint crucial beats like the "Hook," the "Inciting Incident," and "Plot Point I."

Lauren believes that structure is the skeleton that allows your creativity to stand on its own. That is why your only homework in this class is to actually write. You will participate in a collaborative "writers' room" environment, complete with table reads and peer feedback to refine your cinematic voice. Whether you are a total beginner or a writer with a drawer full of unfinished scenes, you will leave this course with the beginning of a professionally formatted piece.

All Classes listed on the Loft website take place in Central Time.

Instructions for Accessing This Online Class

In order to access live class meetings, you must have the Zoom application downloaded to your computer. You will also need a WiFi/Internet connection throughout the duration of your scheduled meeting and a computer with audio and video capability. The information to join your Zoom classroom will be provided in your confirmation email upon registration. Please check spam folders if you do not see this email upon registration. For more information on how to use Zoom, please see our training manual here.

Some classes use a supplemental Google Classroom page. Should your teaching artist use Google Classroom, you will be invited to join the classroom via email at least 24 hours in advance of your class (check spam folders if you are not seeing this invitation). Please note that Google Classroom requires a Gmail address to access the Classroom. If you do not have a Gmail account, the email invitation will be sent to the email address we have on file and will prompt you to create a free account or enter an existing account to join the classroom. If we are unable to send an email invitation to your non-gmail account, you will be contacted by a staff member to provide a Gmail address. If you do not have a Gmail account, you can create a free account here. Should you have concerns about this, please contact a Loft staff member at [email protected] or 612-379-8999. For more information on how to use Google Classroom, please see our training manual here.