FULL SEMESTER ASSIGNMENT - SHORT FILM SCRIPT
During this semester, you will be expected to come up with a short film script idea and, using
the lessons and tools learned through classes and assignments (such as: worldbuilding, genre,
character, the Story Circle, conflict, beats, scenes, dialogue, etc) you will write a short film script
(produced as less than 10 minutes, min 2 pages, max 10).
Once completed, or close to it, you will learn how to pitch your script idea and then put the
lesson into practice by pitching the idea for faculty members and fellow classmates. 10 scripts
will be chosen from the two WINTER 2022 ENL 2018 Screenbased Storytelling classes to go into
production near the end of the semester in conjunction with the TVA 1566 class. Our goal is
creating the final script, TVA 1566 handles the production end.
Please check the Full Short Film Script rubric for how you will be graded for this semester long
assignment, but the highlights are as follows:
Format, Grammar, & Punctuation: Proper scene headings are used. Dialogue specifies speaking
character and has proper margins. Any transitions used are right aligned. Character names are
fully capitalized in action and description lines when they first appear. Use of a 12-point, fixed-
with font such as Courier New or Courier Prime. No errors in spelling and punctuation. Accurate
use of Grammar.
Written for use as a production document: Action and description focus mainly on what can be
seen and heard. Directions for actors are clear and concrete without being overly specific.
Excessive production direction is avoided. Action and description paragraphs are kept
short, using paragraph breaks to separate distinct dramatic beats.
Conflict & Desire: Central character(s) have a clear desire with an established motivation. All
actions characters take relate back to this desire. All scenes have a clear sense of conflict within
the scene, as well as a clear, greater conflict that runs through the scenes. Scenes could be
described as a fight, negotiation, or seduction.
Dialogue: All characters speak with a distinct voice. Dialogue serves a narrative purpose and
stays on focus while managing to sound like a natural conversation. Lines are kept short
and punchy (as much as possible) to make sure the most important content of each line is clear
to the audience.
Respect & Empathy: All characters on the page treated as fully dimensional humans. No stock
types, straw men, or derogatory stereotypes used. Every role gives an actor someone specific
and to inhabit.