Introduction to Screenwriting
What you’ll learn
This course focuses on the art and craft of short film storytelling, emphasizing how to create depth, nuance, and emotional complexity within a compressed screen time. Students will develop a solid foundation in screenwriting structure and format while exploring their own creative process. Through oral storytelling exercises, collaborative “writers’ room” sessions, and analysis of short stories and films, participants will learn to transform raw ideas into polished, emotionally resonant narratives. By the end of the course, each student will complete a fully drafted original short film script and gain confidence in providing and receiving constructive feedback.
Places you may explore
Students will engage directly with Paris as a source of inspiration, capturing images and ideas during outings in locations such as the Jardin du Luxembourg, Tuileries Garden, and other cinematic or culturally rich sites. Film screenings, both in-class and at Parisian arthouse theaters, will support analysis of narrative techniques, character development, and cinematic storytelling.
Supplies
While PCA provides the essential tools for the class to run, students provide their own supplies. A list of required materials will be shared on the summer student portal before the start of the program. Expenses for supplies are estimated at between €30 to €150.
Course highlight
Introduction to storytelling fundamentals and short film structure, including character, theme, and scene construction.
Collaborative writing exercises in a “writers’ room” environment to simulate real-world film development.
Close study and discussion of classic and contemporary short stories and films, such as works by Jacques Rivette, Chris Marker, Agnès Varda, and Wes Craven.
Development of a full short film script through iterative drafts, feedback sessions, and revisions.
Analysis of cinematic techniques, including scene structure, subgoals, and dialogue.
Paris-based inspiration: integrating local environments, historical sites, and visual cues into narrative creation.
Final presentation and vernissage to showcase completed projects.
Prerequisites
Students should have a strong interest in storytelling and film, be committed to daily writing exercises and workshops, participate actively in discussions, and be prepared to work collaboratively and on-site with a notebook for handwritten exercises.
When
Session 3 (July 13 – July 24), Monday – Friday, 9am – 5:45pm
Tuition Cost
Early Bird Rate (before January 31): 3 Credit: €2,500 | Audit: €1,700
Standard Rate (after January 31): 3 Credit: €2,900 | Audit: €1,950
Bundles
2 classes = 5% off tuition fees
3 classes = 10% off tuition fees
