Topics in Media Writing (360-0-22)

Topic

Writing Unreliable Narrators

Instructors

Ariel Stess

Meeting Info

Annie May Swift Hall 219: Mon 12:00PM - 2:50PM

Overview of class

Narrators who are unreliable are a fixture in contemporary storytelling. How can we use our characters' flawed and often untrustworthy perspectives to create suspenseful dramatic and comedic works? In this class, students will use unreliable narration to write a compelling tv pilot, short screenplay, or one-act play.

The course will be workshop-centered with a focus on developing collaborative skills within a writers' room-style environment. Each student will create characters and design stories that generate suspense or humor through unreliable narration. There will be weekly assignments, which include writing assignments, readings, presentations, and viewing films/television.

By the end of the quarter, each student will have created a complete short film, tv pilot, or one-act play (22-30 pages). Graduate students may choose to write up to 60 pages.

Class Materials (Required)

• Subscription or access to Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Hulu
• Readings will be posted on CANVAS
• Internet access, NU email/account, and screenwriting software or word processing program
• Access to computer/laptop for writing/formatting scripts, completing writing assignments, viewing films, and reading

Class Notes

Students should bring a laptop to every class.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Undergraduate students must have completed RTVF 260-0 in order to register for this course (concurrent registration is not allowed). Writing: MFA or Documentary Media: MFA students may register for this course. Undergraduate students must have completed RTVF 260-0 in order to register for this course (concurrent registration is not allowed). Writing: MFA or Documentary Media: MFA students may register for this course.