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STORY ORIGINS: Premise, Character + Theme:

In this in person workshop, you will learn the fundamentals of effective storytelling while developing your ideas into a premise for a film.

 

We will explore the difference between a dramatic and thematic question and examine what motivates character and drives forward plot. Through exercises and group work, you will gain a strong understanding of the earliest stage of development for film and TV. You will also discover new ways of prompting inspiration and generating creativity for your storytelling. 

 

This workshop is also offered online. Participants may be interested in developing their stories further in our Writing the Short Film or Feature Lab 01 workshops. 

 

WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES 

 

This workshop will stimulate your creative mind and help you to develop a variety of skills. 

 

Over the course of 5 days, you will: 

  • learn key screenwriting terminology and concepts 

  • identify the dramatic and thematic questions in films and TV series

  • develop story ideas into a strong premise

  • practice creating complex characters

  • self-assess strengths and weaknesses in your own work 

  • practice positive collaboration and constructive feedback  

TEACHING METHODS 

 

The instructor will draw from the following methods: 

 

  • brief theoretical lectures to establish a shared vocabulary for discussion 

  • discussion-based analysis of short films screened in class 

  • exercises to stimulate storytelling creativity

  • group feedback and discussion of story ideas developed in the workshop 

WHO SHOULD REGISTER? 

Anyone with writing experience and/or a background in a creative field (film, new media, literary arts, live performance, sound arts, performing arts, visual arts, etc.) wishing to develop an idea into a premise for a film. Participants should expect a rigorous pace and must be at least 18 years old.

Workshop Dates 

There are currently two sessions scheduled in 2025:

17th  to 21st March 2025

21st to 25th July 2025


Registration Deadlines
 

Early Bird Registration:

 

1st February 2025.

1st April 2025.

 

After the Early Bird deadline registration is on a rolling basis. This workshop is capped at 10 participants. You may be given the option of joining another session or a waitlist if the workshop is full. 

 

The Paris Screenwriters Workshop requires a 450 euro deposit to hold your place at the time of registration. The deposit is deducted from the workshop fee. Full payment of the remaining balance is requested 45 days prior to the workshop’s start date.
 
Cost

1.050  euros per participant

Early Bird Registration Rate: 850 euros


This does not include 

accommodation, transportation or meals, which are not arranged by the workshop. 

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