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Learning outcomes |
By the end of this course unit, the student should be able to:
1. Correctly format a script
2. Find and test ideas
3. Understand the several phases of the construction of a script.
4. Debate the question of the authorship of a film
5. Reflect upon the contents and form of a cinematic narrative
6. Reflect upon the processes and challenges of cinematic adaptation
7. Do research about characters, places, epochs
8. Create coherent and captivating plots
9. Use the Hero’s Journey structure, according to Joseph Campbell or another structure
10. Build credible characters
11. Build natural dialogues and use voice-over
12. Create spaces and atmospheres
13. Manipulate time
14. Write a script for a fictional short film and its paratexts
15. Develop a critical spirit in the assessment of cinematic texts
The learning objectives are in line with the teaching method: explanation of screenwriting techniques, analysis of examples, exercises.
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Syllabus |
1. Script for fiction
1.1. Functions
1.2. The problem of authorship
1.3. Formatting and software
2. Ideas: how to switch on a lamp
2.1. Unlock inspiration
2.2. What makes a good story?
3. Structure(s)
3.1. The arc of fantasy
3.2. The Hero’s Journey, by Joseph Campbell
4. The characters, people of ink and paper
4.1. Typology
4.2. Empathy
5. Teach your characters how to speak (dialogue and voice-over)
6. Space
6.1. Description
6.2. Create an atmosphere
7. Be the Lord/Lady of time:
7.1. Research for an epoch
7.2. Manipulate time
8. Conflict: getting everybody in trouble
8.1. Types of conflict
8.2. Transformation of the protagonist
9. Suspense, a time bomb
10. Surprise: taking a rabbit out of a hat
11. Paratexts: title, tag line, log line, synopsis, note of intentions, step outline
12. Revision
13. Script for videogames
14. Script for documentary
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Main Bibliography |
Bibliography
Bordwell, David. Narration in the Fiction Film. Routledge, 1985.
Comparato, Doc. Da criação ao guião. Pergaminho, 2003.
Edgar-Hunt, Robert et al. Screenwriting. AVA, 2009.
Field, Syd. The Definitive Guide to Screenwriting. Ebury, 2003.
Frensham, Ray. Screenwriting. Teach Yourself, 2003.
Mancelos, João de. Manual de guionismo. Colibri, 2024.
McKee, Robert. Story. Methuen, 1999.
Nogueira, Luís. Laboratório de guionismo. Labcom, 2010.
Movies
Campion, Jane, dir. The Piano. CyBi 2000, 1993.
Chang-dong, Lee, dir. Burning. NHK, 2018.
Hanson, Curtis, dir. Wonder Boys. BBC, 2000.
Kogonada, dir. Columbus. Depth of Field, 2017.
Leone, Sergio, dir. Once Upon a Time in America. Ladd, 1984.
Mendes, Sam, dir. Revolutionary Road. DreamWorks, 2008.
Siodmak, Robert, dir. The Killers. Universal, 1946.
Spielberg, Steven, dir. Star Wars: Episode IV. LucasFilm, 1977.
Tarantino, Quentin, dir. Pulp Fiction. Miramax, 1994.
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Teaching Methodologies and Assessment Criteria |
The final mark results from:
a) A script for a short film, including a tag line, a log line, a synopsis and a treatment (50%);
b) Participation and openness to critical feedback (50%).
If they wish, working students may choose to have their assessment solely based upon their script, which would then worth 100%.
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