Course Code: FMTV 252
Academic Year: 2025-2026
Over the course of the term, students develop scripts for a short moving image work (eight-minute screenplay) in the style, genre and medium of their choice. These scripts are developed for possible selection for the Independent Production Co-ordination course in the fall of the third year. Students develop their ideas and translate them into coherent, professional, creative proposals while being introduced to some of the basic tools for independent production. Through presentations, independent consultation, workshops and critiques, students develop the confidence to produce their own short moving image works while being encouraged to continue to develop their own unique and personal visions as makers of moving images. In addition, students act as story editors on each other's work, delivering annotated and written critiques as well as in-class feedback. Students learn the value of constructive criticism and notes as it relates to their own work and the work of other writers. Students are highly encouraged to keep a daily/weekly scriptwriting journal as a source of ideas for their scripts. Engaging in the story development process through a hands-on practicum, classes are devoted to workshopping pitches, step outlines and draft works. Reading, critiquing and redrafting students' work are employed with the intent of applying the principles of structural screenwriting to different components of a screenplay: character development setups and pay-offs, turning points, conflict and resolution and dialogue. Note: Any concept or material delivered in prior terms may not be used as IP Screenplays. IP pitch scripts and screenplays must be constructed from a fresh concept/idea.