Become a better writer
Pixar Storytelling: From Idea to Synopsis
From a rat who wants to cook to a robot seeking love, Pixar has a knack for coming up with—and successfully developing—original, dramatic, exciting story ideas. In this course you'll learn how to do exactly that—yourself.
This foundational writing course is perfect for both new and intermediate writers. Over 5 weeks you’ll develop your vague but possibly life-changing idea from a concept into a rich, fully-fledged, emotionally affecting synopsis, using all the best tricks and techniques seen in Pixar’s films.
This course includes:
5 live, interactive sessions with your instructor, Dean Movshovitz, author of PIXAR STORYTELLING.
Personalized, thoughtful feedback on your project assignments.
A collaborative workshopping process, creating a sense of community between you and your fellow participating writers.
In this course…
UPCOMING courses
The course will take place over zoom on Sundays, 01:00pm-04:30pm EST, on the following dates: 11/3, 11/10, 11/17, 11/24, 12/1.
The course will take place over zoom on Mondays, 06:30pm-10:00pm EST, on the following dates: 12/2, 12/9, 12/16, 12/23, 12/30.
Frequently asked questions
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Anyone with a story idea. You don’t need to have any writing experience, though the syllabus does recommend a few books to read. Screenwriters, novelists and playwrights are all welcome!
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The course is designed to develop your idea into a 2-page synopsis that clearly, and compellingly showcases your story from start to finish: its major plot points, character arcs, theme, and set pieces. This will be your final assignment, to be submitted after the final class, on which you will receive development notes from me.
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No problem! Hop on over to my development notes services and schedule a session!
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Absolutely. While the course mainly uses the structure of a 2 hour movie, all the storytelling tools are easily applicable to other formats. Plays, series, books and games all need compelling characters, a clear hook, strong conflict and a resonant, well-expressed theme.
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First, find an idea that you are really excited about. Then play around with it, try to come to class with as much material on it as you can. I also suggest you read the books, watch the movies, and read the scripts listed in the course syllabus (available once you enroll).
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You can get a full refund up to the beginning of the first class. Once the course starts, you can still get a 50% refund, no questions asked.