Feature Bootcamp: Week 1 (June 24 2022)
“As writers, our job is to try to create, in a fake space, something that feels true. Invent a character that doesn’t exist. Make them seem like they do.” – Craig Mazin
Week 1: Why this story? (June 24)
Now that you’ve narrowed down your high-concept idea, we will ask the simple questions: why this story? Why now? What is both timely and universal in your idea? We will begin to chisel away at the central dramatic question of your script, and design a plan to explore this theme from all angles. You’ll refine and polish your story’s premise, and begin the process of outlining.
Feature Bootcamp: Week 1 Homework Assignment
(due July 1)
- Finalize your logline.
- Come up with a “Blockbuster Moment” – one awesome moment that will leave the audience breathless or cheering.
- Fill out your sketchbook.
- Read at least one pro screenplay from the the Black List.
- Class Slide Presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/19eL_MZY4m1YaVYm6sBHr3WPwPVQj4Jsm5wKTpRhY3w0/edit?usp=sharing
- Link to access over 600 screenplays from the Black List on the Script Camp shared drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/127a696W0cFhwbTLVzq78BTlj1tQv640y
- Also, in case it’s helpful, here’s an example sketchbook, story beats and scene cards from Conor’s script The Knowledge: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1z6CTsH9qYHsIRh0P6pAY_S84BcxHBfPN2gazzHnoLm8/edit?usp=sharing
Conor Kyle
Conor Kyle has written for Shudder’s Creepshow (2019) and placed twice in the Nicholl Fellowship with his scripts “Peter and the Wolves” (quarterfinals, also Launchpad top 10) and The Tube (semifinals). His screenplays have also been featured on the annual Hit List, Young & Hungry List, Spec Book, and on Tracking Board’s “Best Writers of the Year” booklet. He writes everything from stage musicals to Westerns to horror movies.
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