Script Factory: Character Building - A Screenwriting Workshop

For feature film writers committed to writing drama – those stories that focus more on character than action – one of the most important challenges is the creation of unique, compelling and emotionally complex characters and to elevate the underlying drama into films that can succeed.

What is it about Juno, Little Miss Sunshine and Lars and the Real Girl that made audiences want to see those films?

As part of Screen Australia’s ongoing commitment to supporting the development of screen stories with strong creative force and high-level craft, Screen Australia and the UK Script Factory have collaborated to present a five-day workshop for professional feature drama writers.

The workshop covers aspects of storytelling theory that cause stumbling blocks to both emerging and established writers. It includes practical sessions on screenwriting craft aimed at freeing up creativity, looks at issues such as unorthodox characters and ways to make them empathetic, and considers the most effective approach toward ensuring that the next draft delivers to its best potential.

This initiative is aimed at those whose core professional commitment is to feature film screenwriting.

How will it work?

Successful recipients will attend a five-day workshop.

The workshop process is designed to enable screenwriters to focus on developing characters that drive creatively and commercially successful films.

Individuals will apply to Screen Australia with credited feature-length screenwriting experience, or achievements in a strongly related role (ie professionally produced theatre or telemovie-length TV drama) and a commitment to writing for the big screen. Applicants will have a current feature script they are working on and will submit a two-page outline of this feature as part of their application.

Via a workshop program conducted within a small group, participants will be re-familiarised with the important aspects of screenwriting principle and craft. By examining produced films as well as reading and discussing work by contemporary screenwriters, participants will consider what makes a good screen story and explore ways of building characters in a narrative context that is meaningful to, and moving for, audiences.

In addition to the workshop there will be an opportunity for the writers on the program to discuss their current feature film project in an individual consultation with a Script Factory tutor as well as a Screen Australia Development Manager. The two-page outline sent with the application will form the basis of this consultation. Each writer will be allocated a 45-minute meeting, so this is not intended as a full development meeting; rather an opportunity to discuss particular issues or concerns the writer may have or simply to get feedback and guidance on the top-level idea. Writers will also be invited to re-submit their two-page outline after the course is completed for further feedback from the trainers, via email.

Eligibility

Applications are open to:

• Feature film writers with at least one produced credit, and a demonstrable interest in drama.
  
  
• Drama writers from a strongly related field – ie playwrights with at least two professionally produced feature-length stage plays, or television writers with at least one produced telemovie credit.
  
  
• Drama writers who have recently been supported for feature development through Screen Australia or its predecessor agencies, or through a state agency.
  

Applicants must be available to undertake the workshop.

Applicants must also meet the general eligibility requirements set out in Screen Australia’s Terms of Trade.

Eligible writers already working with a producer on their feature script may apply with the producer as a team.

Recipients of Screen Australia Enterprise funding who meet the above criteria are welcome to apply for this program.

Course preparation

Prior to the course participants will be asked to read three produced screenplays and watch a number of films. These will serve as examples that can be referred to in detail throughout the course.

Fees

No fees are charged for applications to this program. Participants’ workshop fees will be paid for in full by Screen Australia.

Airfares and accommodation only of up to $1,000 or $1,200 (for WA applicants) per participant can be claimed (on provision of a valid tax invoice with appropriate receipts attached) for non-Sydney residents who take part in the workshop.

Assessment criteria

Screen Australia will take the following considerations into account when assessing applications for this program:

• The skills, experience and track record of the applicant and his/her ability to undertake the proposed workshop.
  
  
• The applicant’s potential to apply their skills in a practical environment.
  
  
• The professional development benefits for the applicant.
  
  
• Clear evidence of the applicant’s produced work as a feature-length drama writer.

Assessment process

Applications will be assessed by a combination of Screen Australia executives and industry specialists as required. Screen Australia will advise applicants of the success or otherwise of their application. Where an application is unsuccessful, the reasons will be conveyed to the applicant, with a written statement of reasons provided on request.

Application materials

Applications must be made using the relevant Screen Australia form, and include all supporting material listed on that form.

[Updated 24 December 2010]