VM 644 - Writing the Feature Film

Credits: 4 credits
(Semester varies)

Introduces students to the craft of screenwriting for narrative feature-length films. Through a combination of readings, screenings, and discussion, students investigate elements such as characterization, conflict, plotting, exposition, goals, motivation, stakes, subtext, tone, theme, and point of view while developing original concepts for feature-length films. Students move from the development of a pitch and synopsis to a detailed step outline and, finally, the first 25-30 pages of a feature-length screenplay.