Master Classes are in-depth, interactive learning experiences focused on craft and career building and led by renowned industry experts. Topics include fiction and documentary filmmaking, TV writing and production, and navigating and succeeding in the entertainment industry.

Oscar-nominated screenwriter Robin Swicord, whose credits include the adaptations of LITTLE WOMEN (1994), MATILDA, MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA, and THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON, reveals the process of adapting a screenplay from source material in this three-hour Master Class. Swicord shares her insights into the art of dramatic writing, the process of adapting both written and historical material for the screen—and how much creative leeway you have in doing so, and defining the cinematic elements that best reflect the essence and core of the story and characters.

Resources:

Download the list of resources from Robin Swicord

Topics covered include:

2:33 - Introductions

5:05 - Immerse Yourself in the Material

6:10 - Finding Dramatic Scenes

7:39 - Developing Protagonists and Antagonists

15:23 - Exploring Theme

30:24 - Discovering Plot

38:15 - Creating Catharsis

41:21 - Habitual Actions and Contending Qualities of Your Characters

1:10:20 - Characters’ Evolving Wants

1:27:47 - Q&A

1:37:15 - Elements of Drama

1:41:18 - Building Story Arc

1:52:29 - Creating Stakes & Boundaries

2:03:44 - Identifying Acts

2:09:14 - The Diagnostic Sentence

2:14:06 - Q&A

2:26:27 - The Writing Process and the Best State of Mind for Effective Writing

2:38:05 - Q&A