Topics in Media Writing (360-0-24)

Topic

Writing the Digital Series

Instructors

Patrick M Wimp

Meeting Info

Annie May Swift Hall 219: Thurs 9:00AM - 11:50AM

Overview of class

The digital series has reached a point in the marketplace where is no longer just a stepping-stone to larger episodic projects, but a commercially and critically viable medium of its own.
In "Writing the Digital Series" students will craft new work on original series concepts that are positioned to take advantage of these opportunities. The class will work individually and as a group to shape multiple episodes that would be consider ‘ready for production' at the end of the quarter.

Registration Requirements

Sophomore year student.
Completion of RTVF 260 - Foundations of Screenwriting

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to do the following:
1. Develop an original creative idea specifically tailored for digital series/new media.
2. Convey the top level creative details of their concept in the form of a Series/Show Bible
3. Craft screenplays for multiple episodes of the digital series
4. Create believable characters, organic dialogue, and motivated action
5. Better collaborate with other writers in a writers room-style creative environment
6. Evaluate short form scripts for production and commercial viability

Teaching Method

Students can expect a combination of video lecture, outside reading and writing assignments, pilot screenings, and in-class writing workshops throughout the quarter.

Evaluation Method

Online participation - 15%
Writing/Development Assignments - 30%
Series Bible - 15%
Episode Scripts - 40%

Class Materials (Required)

Textbook: None
Software: Screenplay/Screenwriting Software - Student's preference. Multiple options will be provided. Cost ranges from $0 to $129.99 for industry standard (Final Draft 10).
Highland 2.5 -- Pro Software, Free Signup with your NU Email:
Highland 2.5 Sign-Up Link (Links to an external site.)

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Students must have completed RTVF 260-0 in order to register for this course (concurrent registration is not allowed) Students must have completed RTVF 260-0 in order to register for this course (concurrent registration is not allowed)