Plotting Your Way to a Compelling Screenplay

ABOUT THE WEBINAR

Screenwriting structure can be daunting to the best of writers if the elements are not properly understood.  In fact, screenwriting has more structure than any other form of creative writing, with the exception of certain styles of poetry.  While each element is vital to the art of screenwriting, plot is probably the most misunderstood of all. It is not story.  

Even though we can isolate each element of structure, and compartmentalize how they function in a script, this is not about a formula for writing, but having a greater understanding of the building blocks that make a story great.  Carla says, “Screenwriting is not like any other kind of writing, because it is for a visual medium. 

While the elements of story (plot, storyline, character arcs, story arcs, and good dialogue are also shared in creating a work of fiction, there are a couple of fundamental differences in the process of writing for the screen.”  One major difference is the use of exposition to drive a plot forward.

Carla currently teaches screenwriting at Santa Barbara City College Continued Learning and holds regular workshops in Montecito.  She has written a dozen original screenplays and two have been optioned.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

• The difference between plot and story
• How action is used in the plot to advance the story
• The relationship between plot, story and character
• Is plot just about a random sequence of events?
• Plotting = planning
• Timing is everything: How does timing influence the evolvement of the story?
• How character creates plot

WHO SHOULD LISTEN?

•  Novice and advanced screenwriters
• Screenwriters who want a better understanding of plot
•  Writers who want to learn more about the craft of screenwriting
•  Writers who want to challenge themselves
•  Screenwriters who write in all genres
•   Screenwriters who want to learn
•   Anyone “truly” interested in writing a industry-acceptable, compelling story for the screen

The Writers Store does not offer any refunds for the webinar. All sales are final.