Screenwriting
Screenwriting In this course we will examine the fundamental elements of dramatic narrative as they relate to visual storytelling. We will emphasize the process of generating original story material and learning the craft of screenwriting, including topics such as story, outline, scene structure, subtext, character objectives, formatting standards, and narrative strategies. Weekly writing assignments will emphasize visual storytelling techniques, tone and atmosphere, character relationships, and dialogue. Students will be required to complete one short screenplay. Required readings will inform and accompany close study of selected screenplays and short films. This class will require some streaming of video material. (FMMC 0101 OR CRWR 0170 or approval of instructor)
Screenwriting In this course we will examine the fundamental elements of dramatic narrative as they relate to visual storytelling. We will emphasize the process of generating original story material and learning the craft of screenwriting, including topics such as story, outline, scene structure, subtext, character objectives, formatting standards, and narrative strategies. Weekly writing assignments will emphasize visual storytelling techniques, tone and atmosphere, character relationships, and dialogue. Students will be required to complete one short screenplay. Required readings will inform …Read more
Prof. Uricaru is a super fun and nice person; she definitely has a lot of experience. However, it really seems like she has no plan for this course. She spends the first week teaching you the most basics of screenwriting. For the rest of the time, people are basically just writing parts of their final 15 page script. We pick around 2 people per class, read through it, and share feedback. Most of time, people are zoned out. We really don't learn much, so I guess that means there is not much work and you basically get an A if you submit everything, attend class, and participate once in a while. I wish we did more readings of famous screenplays, analyzed them, and had more targeted exercises
Prof. Uricaru is a super fun and nice person; she definitely has a lot of experience. However, it really seems like she has no plan for this course. She spends the first week teaching you the most basics of screenwriting. For the rest of the time, people are basically just writing parts of their final 15 page script. We pick around 2 …Read more
I'm not a Film major, but this was one of my favorite classes I've ever taken! Ngaiza was so helpful in getting me to generate ideas and write my short film. She was very dedicated to my creative process, meeting with me outside of class to help me tweak my story and edit my screenplay. She's very competent and offers great suggestions. Loved this course!
This was a great introductory course to screenwriting! I learned both the hard and soft skills required for the field. We watched many short films and analyzed the tools used, but almost all of the screenings were done during the normal class period. The main project of the semester is a 15ish page screenplay for a short film, which you workshop periodically and it ends up being your "final". Great structure!
This was a great introductory course to screenwriting! I learned both the hard and soft skills required for the field. We watched many short films and analyzed the tools used, but almost all of the screenings were done during the normal class period. The main project of the semester is a 15ish page screenplay for a short film, which …Read more
One important thing about David's grading style is that if you are clearly putting in effort and deliver assignments on time, you will likely get an A. So you never really have to worry about getting a low grade in the course as long as you are committed and contribute regularly in class. On the flip side, the feedback he gives on your writing is tough and honest - but since this likely won't effect your overall grade, I found it easier to respond to. Overall, David really knows what he is talking about and will give great guidance. Definitely not a class to just sit on your laptop though, you will have to be actively involved the whole time!
One important thing about David's grading style is that if you are clearly putting in effort and deliver assignments on time, you will likely get an A. So you never really have to worry about getting a low grade in the course as long as you are committed and contribute regularly in class. On the flip side, the feedback he gives on yo …Read more
This course is really centred around you. The professor did well to teach us everything that we needed in order to begin writing our own scripts. After that, it is really up to you and what you are willing to put into your projects. Professor Uricaru does well to give you feedback. The discussions in class was helpful and it was fun to hear people reading your script. If you are willing to put in some time, this class can be really fun. However, if you aren't as involved, you could find it really boring.
This course is really centred around you. The professor did well to teach us everything that we needed in order to begin writing our own scripts. After that, it is really up to you and what you are willing to put into your projects. Professor Uricaru does well to give you feedback. The discussions in class was helpful and it was fun …Read more
The focus of this class is a final project screenplay. She has helpful insights about what makes a good story and has worked in the film industry herself. A lot of the class is workshopping your ideas and there isn't much homework outside working on the screenplay. She isn't the most enthusiastic teacher, she will offer constructive criticism that can be helpful.