Screenwriting for TV & Film

“Let’s face it, you’re already in the business,” says instructor Kate Montgomery. “You’ve seen more movies than you can count and stayed up late way too many times to watch just one more episode of an addictive series on Netflix, Amazon or Cable. If you’re reading this, then you’ve also thought about writing one yourself. And here’s the good news—there’s never been a better time to break in. The industry is rapidly expanding, and there’s more demand now than ever for original content.”

But where to begin as a writer? How to write a screenplay that can sell? What’s the difference between a feature screenplay and a backdoor pilot? What’s a spec script, a series bible, a mini-movie? Are you a “plotter” or a “pantser”?

In this class, Kate will introduce a variety of screenwriting techniques that help writers tap into their own natural strengths to build great stories for the screen. Whether you want to write a major motion picture or the next hit series, you’ll learn the key elements of structure, plot, character development, and pacing that every great screenplay contains.

With a mix of lecture/discussion, film clips, writing exercises and improv, along with course materials you keep to reference later, Kate provides a safe, encouraging environment where you can explore the process, find your voice, and get yourself on the path to completing a professional script that can open doors.

“I began writing scripts while still working full-time in the corporate world,” says Kate. “It took time and dedication, and still does, but it’s also great fun. And it should be. After all, if you hope to entertain anyone else, you should start by first amusing yourself!”