The biggest blockbuster of the year, the funniest romantic comedy, and the most emotional independent film all started in the same way: on the page. Young filmmakers learn about the role of the screenplay, as well as important parts of the script itself and the ever-important advice to show, don't tell.

Concepts

screenplays, film, film making, the hero's journey, protagonists, conflict, external conflict, internal conflict

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Additional Tags

visual and performing arts

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Instructional Ideas

• Assign the video for learners to watch at home before returning to class to discuss what they viewed
• Use as an introduction to a screenwriting project in which individuals, partners, or groups work together to come up with an original screenplay

Classroom Considerations

• Narration moves quickly; consider pausing periodically to elaborate
• The first part of a Crash Course film production series within a larger playlist on film

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• A good introduction to the craft of screenwriting
• References both classic and modern films, such as The Wizard of Oz (1939) to explain the three-act structure and Bridesmaids (2011) to explain internal and external conflict

Cons

• None

Common Core

W.8.10 W.9-10.10 W.11-12.10 SL.8.2 SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2