ENG 277 - Topics: Writing for the Screen (1)

“Anybody can write a movie. The big trick is to sit through one.” So claims George Axelrod in one of his plays.<p>We will test this hypothesis. Using the writers’ workshop model, students will develop original ideas into outlines and initial drafts. Each student will have the chance to pitch film ideas to members of the class, who in turn will play the role of producer and give helpful (and possibly unhelpful) suggestions. From week to week, we will discuss topics such as characterization, dialogue, scene structure, and visual writing.

For a final project, each student will write and revise a short film script, a half-hour pilot, or the opening pages of a longer screenplay. Class participation is essential; students will read each others’ pages and offer substantial comments. Overall, this course will help students to become more incisive readers of the media landscape in which they live.
(Fine Arts)