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IFH Courses and Michael Hauge

Experience two of Hollywood’s most sought-after storyexperts, authors and lecturers with Screenwriting and Story Secrets: The Hero’s Two Journeys.

If you’re a screenwriter, novelist, filmmaker, game developer or storyteller in any arena, this course will empower you to captivate your readers and audiences to achieve both artistic AND commercial success.

Read more

Experience two of Hollywood’s most sought-after storyexperts, authors and lecturers with Screenwriting and Story Secrets: The Hero’s Two Journeys.

If you’re a screenwriter, novelist, filmmaker, game developer or storyteller in any arena, this course will empower you to captivate your readers and audiences to achieve both artistic AND commercial success.

In more than 4½ hours of lecture, discussion and Q&A, Michael Hauge, author of Writing Screenplays That Sell and Selling Your Story in 60 Seconds: The Guaranteed Way to Get Your Screenplay or Novel Read; and Christopher Vogler, story analyst and author of The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure For Writers, unite to reveal the essential principles of plot structure, character arc, myth and transformation.

If you want to elevate your scripts and stories – AND your career to the highest possible level, this class is a must.

They DON'T teach you this in Film School.

Here is what two top screenwriting teachers say about the course…

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see two of Hollywood’s finest and smartest teachers combine their masterful approach to plot, character and commercial success.” - Rich KrevolinScreenwriting Professor at USC; Author of Screenwriting From the Soul and How to Adapt Anything into a Screenplay

“Wow. Michael Hauge and Christopher Vogler ignite the room. I’ve been a pro for nearly 20 years, and in one day this double-barreled seminar made me a better screenwriter.” - Eric Edson, Director of Graduate Screenwriting at Cal State University Northridge; Author of The Story Solution: 23 Steps All Great Heroes Must Take

Some of Chris Volger's clients are:

  • Paramount Pictures -C.

  • Will Smith -” - Will Smith

    “I met Michael through Will Smith, who brought him in as a consultant when we were developing The Karate Kid for me to direct. I have asked for his input and guidance on every project I’ve done since." - Harald Zwart Director: The Karate Kid; Agent Cody Banks

    Michael and Chris will discuss:

    The Hero's Outer Journey: They explain the important structural principles that move any successful plot forward.

    The Hero's Inner Journey: The deeper aspects that form the heart of the story. The Hero’s self is experienced or revealed.

    And as a BONUS you get: The Journeys of Erin Brockovich

    Michael and Chris an in-depth breakdown the Oscar® Winning Film "Erin Brockovich." They show you The Hero’s Two Journeys in action.

    Here's what you will learn from Screenwriting and Story Secrets: Understanding The Hero’s Two Journeys

    • Master the essential elements of story for film, television and fiction

    • Unite the outer journey of PLOT with the inner journey of

    • Recognize the Hero's Two Journeys in successful films and fiction

    • Define your own HERO'..and much more.

      Who is Alex Ferrari? As the founder of Indie Film Hustle it's Alex goal to bring the best information and education he can to indie filmmakers, screenwriter, storytellers and entrepreneurs.

      When the opportunity to work with two story and screenwriting legends like Michael Hauge and Chris Volger and present their work to the Udemy community he jumped at the chance.

      Important information before you enroll:

      • In case you find the course useless, don't forget you are covered by a 30 day money back guarantee, full refund, no questions asked.

      • Once enrolled, you have unlimited, lifetime access to the course.

      • You will have instant and free access to any updates we'll add to the course.

      • I will give you my full support regarding any issues or suggestions related to the course.

      Enroll NOW and take your writing and storytelling to a Let's get started.

Enroll now

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Master the essential elements of story for film, television and fiction
  • Unite the outer journey of plot with the inner journey of transformation
  • Achieve the single essential goal of all storytelling
  • Guarantee both commercial and artistic success
  • Maximize the emotional involvement of your audiences and readers
  • Employ the key principles of the hero's journey
  • Identify the 5 essential turning points for any screenplay or novel
  • Create 3-dimensional characters using wound, belief, fear, identity and essence
  • Harness the power of the 7 mythical archetypes.
  • Recognize the hero's two journeys in successful films and fiction
  • Define your own hero's journeys
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Introduction
Introduction: Bringing together the Hero's Inner and Outer Journey
The Hero's Outer Journey
  • The primary goal of all great stories
  • The Three Key Elements of any Story
  • Conflict: the source of Emotion
  • The Hero's Two Journeys
  • The four primary goals for the heroes of most Hollywood movies
Read more
  • The necessity of the Outer Motivation
  • The 6 stages and 5 essential turning points in any well structured story
  • Introducing your hero's everyday life
  • The 5 tools for creating identification with your hero
  • Presenting your hero with an Opportunity
  • Adapting to the New Situation
  • Adapting to the New Situation
  • CHANGE OF PLANS: The Hero begins his pursuit
  • POINT OF NO RETURN: No turning back
  • Bigger conflict and higher stakes
  • MAJOR SETBACK: All is lost
  • FINAL PUSH: putting everything on the line
  • CLIMAX
  • AFTERMATH: The Hero's new life
  • The work of Joseph Campbell
  • The nature of the Hero's Journey
  • The Hero's Journey for screenwriters & novelists
  • Finding your own rules
  • Traversing the Ordinary World and the Special World
  • The 4 Stages of the journey
  • Separation
  • Descent
  • Initiation
  • Return
  • ORDINARY WORLD
  • CALL TO ADVENTURE
  • REFUSAL OF THE CALL
  • MEETING WITH THE MENTOR
  • CROSSING THE 1ST THRESHOLD
  • TESTS, ALLIES, ENEMIES
  • APPROACH
  • SUPREME ORDEAL
  • REWARD
  • THE ROAD BACK
  • RESURRECTION
  • RETURN WITH THE ELIXIR
The Hero's Inner Journey
  • Outer Journey vs. Inner Journey
  • Putting the visible story first
  • The biggest mistake in developing the Inner Journey
  • Breaking the Rules
  • Longing
  • Need
  • The Hero's Wound
  • FEAR: the power of the wound
  • IDENTITY: The Hero's emotional armor
  • ESSENCE
  • INNER CONFLICT
  • The ARC of transformation
  • Defining the PRIMARY CHARACTERS
  • The HERO
  • The NEMESIS
  • The REFLECTION
  • The ROMANCE
  • Love stories and character arc
  • Secondary Characters
  • The rules for labeling characters
  • Uniting the Two Journeys
  • Structuring the Inner Journey
  • The 6 Stages of Transformation
  • Defining your own Hero's Journey
  • Living your Essence
The Visible and Invisible Goal
The Twelve Stages: The Hero's Inner Journey Part #1
The Twelve Stages: The Hero's Inner Journey Part #2
Q & A: Going Deeper into the Hero's Journeys
Can you name other films that follow your Six Stage Plot Stucture?
Do dual protagonists change the Six Stage Plot Stucture
I've had problems writing the process stage. Can you help?
What are some examples of elixirs?
How important is structure towards the end of the film?
Can the story begin in the Special World?
How should I better develop inner conflict?
What is more important in a romantic comedy: the inner or outer motivation?
What is theme?
When should the hero's wound be revealed?
How can I write a film about a search for truth?
The Six-Stage Plot Structure - Outline
The Hero's Journey - Outline
BONUS: Breaking Down the Oscar® Winning Film "Erin Brockovich"
  • Why THIS movie?
  • Introducing the Hero
  • Risky openings
  • Efficient writing
  • The nature of the armor
  • Insuring identification
  • Flaws as a path to humanity
  • Defining the hero's weaknesses
  • Glimpsing the essence
  • The Romance character as Mentor
  • Conflict through negotiation
  • Establishing heirarchy
  • Trying to recapture the past
  • Wounds, lies and cynicism
  • The value of rewriting
  • Moving into Essence
  • Humanity through details
  • Finding theme in small moments
  • Erin's new life
  • Staying true to one's nature
  • Integrating Identity and Essence
  • Writing for the reader's expectations
Final Words
  • Storytellers as Healers
  • Universal arcs
  • The power of love
  • Storytelling as a privilege and a responsibility
BONUS: What DO You Want to Learn Next?
BONUS: Indie Film Hustle Podcast
Michael Hauge – Writing a Screenplay That Sells
Chris Vogler – Screenwriting & The Writer’s Journey Blueprint
Bulletproof Screenwriting Video Interview with Chris Vogler

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Introduces film, television, and fiction story elements following the Hero's Journey framework
Covers essential plot, character, and story structure principles for storytelling success
Teaches the Hero's Inner Journey, which delves into character transformation and self-discovery
Features experienced instructors Michael Hauge and Christopher Vogler, who are highly regarded in the screenwriting field
Instructs learners on how to craft compelling narratives that connect with audiences emotionally
Provides a detailed breakdown of the Oscar-winning film "Erin Brockovich", demonstrating the principles taught

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Reviews summary

Somewhat lacking introductory screenwriting course

According to students, the video quality is poor and the course outline is missing. Students say the instructor seems disorganized and doesn't provide enough depth or specific examples.
Instructor seems disorganized and lacks depth.
"Speaker seems to be fumbling with his words and provides little depth"
Course outline is missing.
"Where is the course outline?"
Video quality is poor.
"Video quality poor."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Screenwriting & Storytelling Blueprint: Hero's Two Journeys with these activities:
Compile a list of films that exemplify the Hero's Journey structure
Expand your understanding of the Hero's Journey by exploring a variety of films that effectively utilize its structure.
Browse courses on The Hero's Journey
Show steps
  • Research films that are known for their adherence to the Hero's Journey.
  • Summarize each film's plot and identify how it follows the stages of the Hero's Journey.
  • Add the films and their summaries to your compilation.
Review 'Writing Screenplays That Sell' by Michael Hauge
Gain insights into the principles of screenwriting and commercial success by reading a book written by one of the renowned story experts featured in the course.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on the key concepts.
  • Identify the similarities and differences between Hauge's approach and the Hero's Journey.
  • Consider how you can incorporate the principles you learn into your own writing.
Review 'The Writer's Journey' by Christopher Vogler
Gain a deeper understanding of the Hero's Journey and its application in storytelling by studying one of the foundational texts on the subject.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on the key concepts.
  • Identify the parallels between the Hero's Journey and your own writing.
  • Consider how you can incorporate the principles of the Hero's Journey into your own work.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create character profiles based on the Hero's Journey archetypes
Strengthen your character development skills by practicing creating characters that embody the archetypes of the Hero's Journey.
Browse courses on Character Development
Show steps
  • Identify the main archetypes of the Hero's Journey.
  • Create a character sketch for each archetype, defining their traits, motivations, and backstory.
  • Consider how these characters would interact and conflict with each other in a story.
Attend a workshop on Hero's Journey storytelling techniques
Enhance your understanding of the Hero's Journey by attending a workshop led by experienced professionals who can provide guidance and feedback.
Browse courses on The Hero's Journey
Show steps
  • Research and select a workshop that aligns with your learning goals.
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and exercises.
  • Apply the techniques and concepts you learn to your own writing.
Analyze successful films using the Hero's Journey
Practice applying the Hero's Journey framework to real-world examples to enhance your understanding of storytelling techniques.
Browse courses on The Hero's Journey
Show steps
  • Select a film that follows the Hero's Journey structure.
  • Identify the hero's goal, motivation, and obstacles.
  • Map out the major stages of the hero's journey within the film.
  • Analyze how the film uses character development, conflict, and resolution to convey the hero's transformation.
Write a scene that demonstrates the hero's inner and outer journeys
Apply your knowledge of the Hero's Journey to craft a scene that effectively portrays the hero's emotional and physical transformation.
Browse courses on Character Development
Show steps
  • Define the hero's goal and motivation.
  • Create a conflict that challenges the hero's beliefs or values.
  • Show the hero's struggle and growth as they face the conflict.
  • Resolve the conflict and demonstrate the hero's transformation.

Career center

Learners who complete Screenwriting & Storytelling Blueprint: Hero's Two Journeys will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Writer
Writers turn words into stories and scripts and can work in many different industries. This course can help aspiring writers break into the industry. It provides a deep understanding of how to craft compelling stories, handle plot and character development, and connect with audiences effectively. The course also emphasizes the importance of structure, a key element in successful storytelling.
Film and Video Editor
Film and video editors are responsible for assembling raw footage into a cohesive and engaging story. This course can provide aspiring editors with a strong foundation in storytelling techniques, enabling them to make informed decisions about pacing, flow, and overall impact. Additionally, the emphasis on audience engagement will help editors create content that resonates with viewers.
Producer
Producers oversee the creative and financial aspects of film and television projects. This course can help aspiring producers develop essential knowledge in storytelling, character development, and plot structure. By understanding the inner and outer journeys of characters, producers can make informed decisions about project development, budgeting, and marketing.
Creative Director
Creative directors lead and inspire creative teams, ensuring that projects align with the company's vision and goals. This course can help aspiring creative directors refine their storytelling abilities, enabling them to effectively communicate ideas, concepts, and themes. Additionally, the focus on character development and emotional engagement will assist in creating campaigns that resonate with audiences.
Novelist
Novelists create literary works that engage and entertain readers. This course can provide aspiring novelists with a strong foundation in storytelling techniques, character development, and plot structure. By understanding the inner and outer journeys of characters, novelists can craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers.
Screenwriter
Screenwriters bring stories to life for film and television. This course can provide aspiring screenwriters with a comprehensive understanding of storytelling principles, character development, and plot structure. By mastering the Hero's Two Journeys, screenwriters can create compelling narratives that connect with audiences on a deep level.
Game Designer
Game designers create the rules, mechanics, and stories for video games. This course can help aspiring game designers develop essential knowledge in storytelling, character development, and plot structure. By understanding the Hero's Two Journeys, game designers can create immersive and engaging gaming experiences that capture players' imaginations.
Screenwriting Lecturer
Screenwriting lecturers teach courses in screenwriting techniques and principles. This course can provide aspiring screenwriting lecturers with a comprehensive understanding of storytelling principles, character development, and plot structure. By mastering the Hero's Two Journeys, screenwriting lecturers can effectively convey these concepts to students and help them develop their writing skills.
Story Analyst
Story analysts evaluate and provide feedback on scripts and story ideas. This course can provide aspiring story analysts with a comprehensive understanding of storytelling principles, character development, and plot structure. By mastering the Hero's Two Journeys, story analysts can effectively assess and guide the development of compelling narratives.
Film Professor
Film professors teach courses on film history, theory, and production. This course may be useful for aspiring film professors who wish to enhance their knowledge of storytelling techniques and principles. By understanding the Hero's Two Journeys, film professors can more effectively convey these concepts to students and foster their understanding of cinematic storytelling.
Narrative Designer
Narrative designers create and develop the stories and characters for video games, films, and other interactive media. This course may be useful for aspiring narrative designers who wish to enhance their understanding of storytelling techniques and principles. By mastering the Hero's Two Journeys, narrative designers can create engaging and emotionally resonant narratives that captivate audiences.
Marketing Manager
Marketing managers develop and execute marketing campaigns to promote products, services, or brands. This course may be useful for aspiring marketing managers who wish to enhance their understanding of storytelling techniques and principles. By mastering the Hero's Two Journeys, marketing managers can create more effective and emotionally engaging marketing campaigns that resonate with target audiences.
Advertising Copywriter
Advertising copywriters create written content for advertisements, such as slogans, headlines, and body copy. This course may be useful for aspiring advertising copywriters who wish to enhance their understanding of storytelling techniques and principles. By mastering the Hero's Two Journeys, advertising copywriters can create more effective and persuasive ad copy that resonates with target audiences.
Public Relations Specialist
Public relations specialists manage the public image of companies, organizations, or individuals. This course may be useful for aspiring public relations specialists who wish to enhance their understanding of storytelling techniques and principles. By mastering the Hero's Two Journeys, public relations specialists can more effectively craft and communicate messages that resonate with target audiences.
Speechwriter
Speechwriters prepare speeches for public figures, such as politicians, business leaders, and celebrities. This course may be useful for aspiring speechwriters who wish to enhance their understanding of storytelling techniques and principles. By mastering the Hero's Two Journeys, speechwriters can create more effective and engaging speeches that connect with audiences on an emotional level.

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Screenwriting & Storytelling Blueprint: Hero's Two Journeys.
Classic guide to understanding the structure of successful stories. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to write better stories, whether for film, television, or fiction.
Provides a practical guide to writing screenplays that are both commercially successful and critically acclaimed. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to write better screenplays.
Seminal work on the study of mythology and its application to storytelling. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the archetypal patterns that underlie all great stories.
Practical guide to the craft of storytelling. It provides a step-by-step process for creating stories that are both compelling and effective.
Comprehensive guide to the craft of screenwriting. It covers everything from story structure to dialogue writing to marketing your screenplay.
Provides a practical guide to the craft of writing characters. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to write better fiction.
Provides a comprehensive guide to the craft of writing short stories. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to write better short stories.
Provides a comprehensive guide to the craft of writing emotion. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to write better characters and stories.
Provides a comprehensive guide to the craft of writing dialogue. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to write better dialogue.

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