WIFT-T Feature Film Writing Program

Presented in partnership with NBCUniversal, OMDC and Telefilm Canada.

Delivered in two parts, WIFT-T’s Feature Film Writing Program introduces and expands on the major elements of feature film screenwriting, including concept, character, conflict, dialogue, theme, and the development stages of a screenplay.

Through a combination of instruction, hands-on exercises, examples and group discussion, the program provides in-depth analysis of screenplay fundamentals and supports the development of a script from concept to first draft.

The full program is structured to support writers’ progression from concept to first draft; however, participants may choose to take Part 1 or Part 2 individually. Both sections are instructed by renowned story editor and former Canadian Film Centre Story Editor in Residence, Maureen Dorey. Open to women and men, members and non-members.

Part 1: Discover Your Story

May 16, 23, June 6, 13, 2012
Learn the unique nature of telling stories for the screen. Recommended for emerging writers, Part 1 introduces core concepts and encourages participants to develop an original idea for a feature film and take that idea to the outline (or treatment) stage.

Part 2: Define Your Voice

July 4, 11, 18, 25, 2012
Build stronger characters, tighter scenes and a distinct theme. Recommended for emerging to intermediate writers, Part 2 requires participants to have a completed outline or treatment and supports their progression to first draft. Also ideal as a refresher-course for writers who want to renew their inspiration and workshop a project under the guidance of a story editor with support and feedback from peers.

Program Details

Instructor | Maureen Dorey, Story Editor/Consultant
When | Wednesdays, 6:00pm – 9:00pm (see dates above)
Where | Technicolor, 49 Ontario Street, Toronto

Fees and Registration

All prices include HST.

Single Course Fee | Members $293.80 | Non-Members $361.16
Full Program Fee | Members $587.60 | Non-Members $723.20

Register | Complete the Programming Registration Form. Please note Part 1 is at capacity. Part 2 may be taken individually. Experience is required. Read more.

For inquiries, contact Renée Robinson at rrobinson@wift.com.

Core Components

Screenplay Anatomy
Using scripts from successful films, each series will help you understand the intricate working mechanisms of screenplays. The workshops focus on all elements of screenwriting, including genre, outlines, treatments and drafts, story, plot and sub-plots, back-story, character motivation, conflict, scene structure and sequences, turning points, reversals, tone, pacing and visual elements.

Feature Film Structure
Participants will learn the three-act structure, as well as the importance of themes, concepts, premise and genres. The course also examines the structure of building plots, the economy of narrative storytelling, and the importance of satisfying endings. Includes an introduction to character development and creating character profiles.

Character Development
Participants learn the essentials of character development, including creating strong, unique characters with memorable personalities; the role of protagonists, antagonists, and supporting characters; building back story and psychology; and differentiating between complex characters and caricatures.

Dialogue
Participants receive an introduction on how to write natural, believable and economical dialogue for feature scripts. Topics include scene structure, exposition, descriptive writing, atmosphere and tone, impact of character choices on story design and charting convincing character change.