Friday, June 1, 2012

Film Script & Woody Allen

Please continue to read the collection of "essays", short works, and plays in Without Feathers. Use the posts below to help you appreciate and understand the techniques Allen is using in his writing. Look for the different types of comedy he is using, and if stuck, take a look at the story break-down I have provided for you.

Today in class you are going to learn a little about Dogma '95 and come up with a group film script that may or may not be based on the ideals of Dogma '95. If we had more time in this course, we would make our films. As time is running out, please note that any film you write, you can (over the summer or even between now and the end of the course) complete the film (shoot it, edit, etc.) and keep it in your "portfolio" for next year. If you turn in a project BEFORE the end of the marking period (in two weeks) I will grant you lots of extra credit.

The collaborative script, however, is an assignment.

Today in the lab, please get into groups of 2-3. Read the article Dogma 95: Rules Were Made to be Broken together. Take special note of the rules for Dogma '95. For some of you interested in making films: go out and use these rules to create a film. Take your camera, find a suitable location with some actor friends, and have them improvise a movie while you record it. You can only use props and costumes that are found in the location. No artificial lighting or sound is generally allowed.

Here are a few Dogma '95 examples: Please watch today!
Now, after viewing, please use the brainstorming handout to come up with an idea for a film. Your budget is likely to be "0". Once you have an idea for a script, feel free to begin your film writing. Writing a film script is a little different than writing a stage play. Please look here for examples of how to format a film script.

Additionally, feel free to look up and read any current script from this website. Search for your favorite films and see them in script form!

HOMEWORK: please continue reading Without Feathers. Make a Dogma 95 film (optional). Write a film script.

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About this course!

This course stresses understanding the characteristics & techniques in the literary genres of fiction, poetry, and dramatic writing. This course will continue to build on students’ reading and writing skills begun in previous creative writing classes. Readings and discussions of works by major writers in the field will be examined as inspiration and models of fine writing. This educational blog is designed for the use of the students at the School of the Arts in Rochester, NY.