Narrative Filmmaking: From Script to Screen

Course Description

Narrative Filmmaking: From Script to Screen is a hybrid writing/production course that guides students through the process of completing a 2-3 minute narrative film. Students will write scripts for short fiction films, and then, by filming them, learn to apply the fundamentals of digital video production. Initial classwork will include visual writing exercises, DSLR cinematography instruction, script work, and basic fiction film production. Students will continue on in groups of three to develop, film, edit, and critique 2-3 minute narrative films based on a shared class theme or narrative premise. This course is truly INTENSIVE and requires a significant amount of work (including nights and weekends) outside of class and daily deadlines for submission of creative work.

This course fulfills the Creative Expression (CE) requirement.

Meet the Instructor(s)

Adam Tobin

Adam Tobin is a Senior Lecturer in the Film and Media Studies Program in the Department of Art and Art History, where he teaches Screenwriting, Script Analysis, Adaptation, and Visual Writing. He has also taught Television Writing, Screenwriting, Pitching, and Improvisational Speaking for Stanford Continuing Studies.  He worked as a story analyst for Jim Henson Pictures and ran pitch seminars at DreamWorks Animation and Blue Sky Studios. A graduate of Stanford (Class of 1993), Adam received an M.F.A. in screenwriting from the USC School of Cinematic Arts and has written for many U.S. networks.