Screenwriting Fundamentals: Writing Powerful Protagonists and Antagonists + Creating a Powerful Outline

Live Online Workshop

Sunday, November 3rd

9am EST-4pm EST

Screenwriting Fundamentals: Writing Strong Protagonists & Antagonists + Creating a Powerful Outline

Professional screenwriter Carrie Schrader teaches you the fundamentals of screenwriting for television or film in this very hands-on, two-part writing class where you’ll learn how to create active, dynamic main characters and rock solid outlines. 

When I signed my first screenwriting for hire contract, I did not know this very essential fact - the outline is HUGE. Yes, I get paid when I sign the contract, but the first BIG paycheck comes when I deliver the outline. -Carrie Schrader

Many people HATE outlining or feel that they do not need it. I get that, I used to be in that camp. But then I realized that in order to be a professional writer I had to write outlines that sell. 

Not only that, an excellent outline saves time in the rewrite and provides an essential blueprint that guides the story-building process. You would never build a house without a clear architectural plan, same is true with writing a film or tv show.

In order to create a solid outline, you have to have a strong protagonist who DRIVES THE PLOT.

Making your protagonist ACTIVE so that they are driving the story is the key to writing stories that entertain and critical to writing stories that sell.

You MUST HAVE a main character who is intent on reaching a goal AND an equally strong antagonist (the more the better) trying to stop them. This will save you from the dreaded act sloppies, the place where most stories fall apart because of a weak protagonist/antagonist arc. 

In this course, we will use the writing tools that I originally learned from Stewart Stern (Rebel Without A Cause) and honed while at Columbia University Film and Television MFA program in NY. I’ve shared them with my one-on-one coaching clients, who have gone onto successful careers.

I also use them in my own writing practice which has led me to three feature film writing contracts, an up and coming I-can’t-tell-you-the-name television show with A Really Good Home Pictures (JLo/ Ben Affleck/Matt Damon movie, Unstoppable) and my own original television pilots, which both have showrunners attached.

This is not a lecture class. This is a badass, in-depth, WRITING class where I will guide you though a series of proved, professional writing exercises — you will leave with solid character arcs and a draft of an outline.

*In class writing sessions and discussions included in this workshop.

Workshop taught by Screenwriting and Directing Mentor Carrie Schrader

*Refund Policy: All classes and workshops are non refundable effective from the date of purchase. Class credit is available to transfer to another class or the same class. You have 6 months from the date of purchase to redeem the credit.