Idea to Story: A Screenplay Development Workshop

Oftentimes, a great idea for a movie needs support in the early stages to lay the groundwork for writing the script. Will your idea work as a feature film (versus a short film or TV series)? What would make it the most compelling viewing experience? Do you have a unique take and voice? Does it have a dramatic engine? Should it live in a genre? Do you have complex characters that audiences will invest in? How do you ensure that your idea becomes a compelling story? How do you make your logline shine? How do you pitch this idea? In this immersive online workshop, you’ll be guided through how to discover, nurture, and refine your original ideas for a feature length screenplay.

By the end of this workshop, you’ll have a solid foundation for your story, a clear development plan, and the confidence to take the next steps in your screenwriting journey. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to hone your craft, this course provides the tools and support you need to turn your creative vision into reality.

How the course is structured:

For four weeks, you’ll meet as a large group for lecture and generative exercises, with an optional networking session in the fifth week. For an additional fee of $100, you can meet with your Instructor for a 30-minute 1-1 session during the course term. 

This course prepares you for Screenwriting: Core Elements or Screenwriting: From Outline to First Draft of Your Screenplay. 

What you bring to the course:

• an interest in writing a screenplay. Creators at any level of experience are welcome to apply.
• a desire to workshop your idea with an instructor and peers.

What you’ll get from the course:

• how to develop your ideas into compelling visual narratives
• an understanding of the key elements that make a story engaging
• how to determine the appropriate length and medium for your idea
• how to create a compelling logline
• how and when to pitch your idea

This course will:

• provide tools and techniques to apply to any project.
• help simplify and streamline the process of writing your outline.
• connect you with other creators via a discussion board where you can discuss core concepts and share your work.

A limited number of need-based scholarships are available and are considered on a rolling basis as they are received. Those who apply earlier will have a greater chance of getting support. To apply for a scholarship, please complete the registration form and follow the instructions on the left side to fill out a scholarship application.

Sundance Collab provides accommodations and support services to participants with disabilities. Accommodations and services are designed to meet the needs of each participant. Please email us at accessibility@sundance.org to arrange for services.