David Tovar - Script to Screen for Teens

Script to Screen" is a creative & collaborative course designed for aspiring filmmaking professionals looking to develop their skills and knowledge in being a part of a team and making a film from scratch. We shall study & refer to the filmmaking greats of varying generations, whilst engaging you in hands-on activities to grant priceless practical insight into the process of creating compelling narratives for the screen. 

As a group, develop a mini-movie using the environments, equipment, and actors available after creating a baseline understanding of how to visually tell a story. Enhance our short film through unique scriptwriting, thoughtful character development, and effective directing & filmmaking techniques. Gain practical skills in cinematography, lighting, and on-set production management and learn post-production processes for polished media. Discover the reality of independent & high-budget filmmaking, including marketing, distribution, and career advancement strategies.

Session II of Script to Screen builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in Session I, delving deeper into the preparation & execution of making a short film from scratch. This session emphasizes the collaborative nature of filmmaking, as students will work together to bring their creative visions to life. From developing screenplay ideas to filming and reviewing footage, students will gain hands-on experience in every stage of the filmmaking process.

Introduction to Session II Objectives. 

Understanding the roles in filmmaking: both in front and behind the camera

Exploring camera presence: techniques for effective on-screen performance

Practical exercises: improvisation and on-camera acting

Assignment: Take a short video demonstrating camera presence and reflecting on the experience.

Week 2: Brainstorming & Deciding Ideas

Techniques for brainstorming and idea generation

Importance of collaboration and respectful communication in the creative process

Decision-making process: selecting and refining screenplay ideas

Group discussion and peer feedback on screenplay concepts

Assignment: Develop a one-page treatment for the selected screenplay idea.

Introduction to the fundamentals of screenwriting

Structure of a screenplay: Act I, Act II, Act III

Character development and dialogue writing

Formatting guidelines and industry standards

Workshop: Writing and refining scenes from the screenplay treatment

Assignment: Complete the first draft of the screenplay.

Introduction to filming equipment and techniques.

Pre-production planning: creating shot lists, storyboarding, and scheduling

Practical exercises: filming scenes from the screenplay

Rotating roles: directing, cinematography, sound recording, and acting

Collaboration and problem-solving on set

Post-production considerations: reviewing footage and identifying areas for improvement

Screening of filmed scenes

Group critique and feedback session

Identifying strengths and areas for improvement

Reflection on the filmmaking process and lessons learned

Assignment: Incorporate feedback and begin editing the filmed scenes.