Building your Screenplay from edX

This course is part of the University of Cambridge’s MicroMasters program in Writing for Performance and Entertainment Industries.

We will be looking in depth at how to build a screenplay that communicates its central meaning through strong visual images. How do we write a script containing almost no dialogue? And when we do have to use speech, what constitutes successful dialogue for the screen? How will film genre and history influence your writing? What is the difference between a tagline and a logline? How do you write an effective outline of your script for a producer to read? What is a ‘story bible’ and when do you need one? All these questions and more will be answered.

We will be thinking comparatively about screenplay advice from film and TV industry gurus such as Robert McKee and John Yorke - as well as asking you to find your own habits and practices as writing methodology. We will critically analyse the work of filmmakers such as Jeremiah Mosese, Mustashrik Mahbub and Melina Matsoukas. How do our global film and TV industries reflect our social and cultural concerns and needs today? The work of James Frey ( Queen and Slim ), Michaela Coel ( I May Destroy You ) and Phoebe Waller-Bridge ( Fleabag, Killing Eve ) will inspire us to find the stories within ourselves than can change the world.

Successful visual communication is a vital skill in any workplace. Visual images are the fastest way to communicate the most information possible in the shortest possible time, and a strong intuitive and strategic grasp of this process will offer you an in valuable creative toolbox for expert communication in any professional sphere.

Skill transferability, flexible thinking, and expert language abilities are now essential in a diversifying global job market - come and learn essential new skills, and have fun doing it!

You will be set writing exercises over the course of the module, and you will asked to keep a brief creativity journal to note how your ideas progress and how your intuition leads you into productivity. By the end of this module, you will have completed several new scenes of a screenplay, with a considered plan for the structure of the entire piece of work. You will have reflected on how social and cultural mores can become useful themes to create commercially successful work.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Specialised knowledge of histories, forms, and traditions of writing for performance as well as the cultural contexts of innovative practitioners and practices within film and tv; of contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of production;
Script-editing skills within screenwriting industries;
Developed advanced self-management skills to include working in planned and improvisatory ways, as well as the ability to anticipate and accommodate change, ambiguity, creative risk-taking, uncertainty and unfamiliarity;

How to create effective structure within a screenplay; how to write powerful characters for the screen;
Advanced awareness of the relevant market and distribution demands of entertainment industries.

Specialised knowledge of histories, forms, and traditions of writing for performance as well as the cultural contexts of innovative practitioners and practices within film and tv; of contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of production;
Script-editing skills within screenwriting industries;
Developed advanced self-management skills to include working in planned and improvisatory ways, as well as the ability to anticipate and accommodate change, ambiguity, creative risk-taking, uncertainty and unfamiliarity;
How to create effective structure within a screenplay; how to write powerful characters for the screen;
Advanced awareness of the relevant market and distribution demands of entertainment industries.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Well-suited for learners interested in writing for film and TV

Taught by experienced instructors in the field

Develops essential screenwriting skills and knowledge

Examines cultural and social influences on filmmaking

Provides hands-on writing exercises to enhance practical skills

May require additional software or resources for optimal learning

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 Building your Screenplay with these activities:

Review principles of screenwriting

Show steps

Sharpen your existing screenwriting knowledge to enhance your ability to engage with and learn from the course material.

Browse courses on Screenwriting

Show steps

Read a screenplay
Identify the key elements of a screenplay
Review the different types of screenplays

Read 'Save the Cat!'

Show steps

Gain insights into the fundamentals of screenwriting by reading a foundational text in the industry.

View Save the Cat! Writes a Young Adult Novel: The... on Amazon

Show steps

Read the book
Take notes on key concepts
Reflect on how the concepts apply to your own writing

Write a short scene

Show steps

Apply the principles of screenwriting to create your own content, allowing you to practice and refine your skills.

Browse courses on Screenwriting

Show steps

Develop a story idea
Outline the scene
Write the scene
Get feedback on your scene

Three other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all six activities

Complete screenwriting tutorials

Show steps

Supplement your learning with guided tutorials, providing you with additional insights and guidance on specific aspects of screenwriting.

Browse courses on Screenwriting

Show steps

Identify relevant tutorials
Complete the tutorials
Apply what you have learned

Join a screenwriting group

Show steps

Connect with peers, share your work, and receive valuable feedback to enhance your screenwriting skills.

Browse courses on Screenwriting

Show steps

Find a screenwriting group
Participate in group discussions
Share your work for feedback
Provide feedback to others

Write a screenplay outline

Show steps

Develop a roadmap for your screenplay, solidifying your story structure and ensuring a cohesive narrative.

Browse courses on Screenwriting

Show steps

Brainstorm ideas
Create a logline
Write a synopsis
Outline the plot
Develop character profiles

Career center

Learners who complete Building your Screenplay will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Screenwriter

As a crucial member of the filmmaking process, Screenwriters are responsible for transforming creative visions into written scripts that serve as blueprints for films and television shows. The "Building Your Screenplay" course offered by the University of Cambridge will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in this role. Through comprehensive analysis of industry-leading techniques and guidance from experienced professionals, you'll build a strong foundation in crafting compelling narratives, developing captivating characters, and mastering the art of visual storytelling. With a focus on successful dialogue writing and an understanding of film history and genre influences, this course empowers you to make a meaningful impact in the entertainment industry as a Screenwriter.

See salaries and explore the career path for Screenwriter

Script Reader

Script Readers play a pivotal role in the film and television industry, evaluating and providing feedback on screenplays to guide the development process. The "Building Your Screenplay" course from the University of Cambridge offers a valuable foundation for aspiring Script Readers. By delving into industry best practices, analyzing successful screenplays, and honing your critical thinking skills, you'll gain the expertise to assess scripts effectively, identify promising stories, and contribute to the success of future productions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Script Reader

Film or Television Producer

Film or Television Producers are responsible for overseeing the entire production process, from concept development to distribution. The "Building Your Screenplay" course offered by the University of Cambridge provides valuable insights that can enhance your success in this role. Through a comprehensive understanding of screenplay structure, character development, and industry practices, you'll gain the knowledge to assess scripts, collaborate with writers, and guide projects towards production.

See salaries and explore the career path for Film or Television Producer

Creative Writing Professor

Creative Writing Professors inspire and guide students in developing their storytelling abilities. The "Building Your Screenplay" course from the University of Cambridge aligns with the skills required for this profession. By mastering the principles of screenplay writing, exploring industry techniques, and nurturing your creativity, you'll gain the expertise to teach and mentor aspiring writers, fostering their growth and equipping them with the skills to succeed in the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Creative Writing Professor

Film or Television Director

Film or Television Directors translate written scripts into visual narratives, leading creative teams to bring stories to life. The "Building Your Screenplay" course offered by the University of Cambridge will provide you with a solid foundation. Through an in-depth understanding of screenplay structure, visual storytelling techniques, and industry best practices, you'll gain the knowledge to collaborate effectively with screenwriters, guide actors, and oversee all aspects of production.

See salaries and explore the career path for Film or Television Director

Screenwriting Instructor

Screenwriting Instructors impart their knowledge and skills to aspiring writers, providing guidance and feedback to help them develop their craft. The "Building Your Screenplay" course from the University of Cambridge aligns with this role by providing a comprehensive understanding of screenplay writing principles, industry practices, and successful storytelling techniques. By mastering these concepts and honing your teaching abilities, you'll effectively guide students, fostering their growth as screenwriters.

See salaries and explore the career path for Screenwriting Instructor

Film or Television Development Executive

Film or Television Development Executives evaluate and acquire screenplays, shaping the future of film and television content. The "Building Your Screenplay" course from the University of Cambridge provides valuable insights that can enhance your success in this role. Through analysis of successful screenplays, understanding of industry trends, and exploration of storytelling techniques, you'll gain the knowledge to identify promising projects, guide script development, and contribute to the creation of compelling content.

See salaries and explore the career path for Film or Television Development Executive

Novelist

Novelists craft captivating stories in written form, immersing readers in fictional worlds. While this course primarily focuses on screenwriting, its emphasis on storytelling, character development, and narrative structure can be valuable for aspiring Novelists. By mastering these principles and honing your writing skills, you'll gain the foundation to translate your creativity into successful novels that engage and entertain readers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Novelist

Journalist

Journalists inform and engage the public through written articles, stories, and broadcasts. The "Building Your Screenplay" course from the University of Cambridge may be useful for aspiring Journalists seeking to enhance their storytelling abilities. By developing a strong foundation in narrative structure, dialogue writing, and visual communication, you'll gain skills that can translate effectively to journalistic writing, enabling you to craft compelling and impactful stories that resonate with audiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

Copywriter

Copywriters craft persuasive and engaging written content for marketing and advertising campaigns. The "Building Your Screenplay" course from the University of Cambridge can provide valuable insights that enhance your skills in this role. By learning the principles of storytelling, character development, and visual communication, you'll gain the ability to create compelling narratives that effectively convey brand messages and connect with target audiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Copywriter

Fiction Editor

Fiction Editors work closely with authors to refine and polish written works, ensuring their quality and effectiveness. The "Building Your Screenplay" course from the University of Cambridge can provide valuable insights for aspiring Fiction Editors. By gaining a deep understanding of storytelling techniques, narrative structure, and character development, you'll develop the skills to provide constructive feedback, guide authors in refining their manuscripts, and contribute to the success of published works.

See salaries and explore the career path for Fiction Editor

Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing strategies to promote products and services. The "Building Your Screenplay" course from the University of Cambridge may be useful for aspiring Marketing Managers seeking to enhance their storytelling and communication skills. By learning the principles of narrative structure, character development, and visual communication, you'll gain the ability to create compelling marketing campaigns that effectively engage target audiences and drive business results.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Public Relations Specialist

Public Relations Specialists manage and shape the public image of organizations and individuals. The "Building Your Screenplay" course from the University of Cambridge may be useful for aspiring Public Relations Specialists seeking to enhance their storytelling abilities. By developing a strong foundation in narrative structure, dialogue writing, and visual communication, you'll gain the skills to craft compelling narratives that effectively convey key messages, build relationships with stakeholders, and manage public perception.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Relations Specialist

Speechwriter

Speechwriters craft speeches and presentations for public figures and organizations. The "Building Your Screenplay" course from the University of Cambridge may be useful for aspiring Speechwriters seeking to enhance their storytelling abilities. By learning the principles of narrative structure, character development, and visual communication, you'll gain the skills to create compelling speeches that effectively convey key messages, engage audiences, and achieve desired outcomes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Speechwriter