Solving Story Problems in Film and Television

Online Classes
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$69.00
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Sold Out - Waitlist Available!

You’ve written your script, but now what?

Even the best writers receive feedback from studios and networks, so it’s beneficial to avoid common screenwriting traps ahead of time and know how to get to a greenlight. In this course, studio and production company veteran Brandon Loureiro breaks down the problems he sees in screenplays again and again, as well as how to solve them.

In addition, Brandon also identifies some of the common phrases used by executives, along with what they really mean. Understanding the most frequent story issues is only half the battle though, as coming to a solution can be equally difficult. With this in mind, the final portion of the class will include helpful tips on addressing notes and solving problems.

This Four Week Series Will Cover: 

  • Industry jargon 
  • What studios look for in scripts 
  • Working with executives 
  • Taking notes like a pro 
  • Live Q&A 

Week One - Common General Notes

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Summary

This unit will cover the most frequent development notes given by studios and networks, such as making the project bigger, bringing down the budget, giving characters stronger arcs, clarifying the conflict, speeding up the pace, and making content for an audience.

Week Two - Common Page Notes

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Summary

It’s important to solve major story problems early on, but often the difference between a greenlight and development hell is getting the little things right. Fitting roles to actors, trimming dialogue, addressing legal issues, and providing information at the right time are just a few of the many page notes executives give over and over.

Week Three - Understanding Executive Speak

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Summary

While getting specific notes on your screenplay can be very helpful, the reality is that companies pass on the vast majority of material they receive without giving notes, often using vague phrases that can be easily misinterpreted. During this session, Brandon will break down common executive phrases like we didn’t love the concept, we didn’t feel like the best producers, anything with (blank) is tougher for us, and it’s too similar to something on our slate.

Week Four - Getting to the Solution

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Summary

By now you understand many common story issues, both from development notes and feedback on submissions. However, actually getting the work done can be time-consuming and headache-inducing. The final lesson covers how to best solve story problems, such as understanding suggestions vs. mandates, distilling down the note, using bad ideas to come up with good ideas, and pushing back when necessary.

More about
Brandon Loureiro
Creative Executive
Strong Baby Productions

Brandon Loureiro is a film and television executive at Strong Baby Productions, where he has helped build a slate of over 70 projects. The company's recent credits include STUTZ, YOU PEOPLE, and the upcoming film Y2K. Prior to Strong Baby, Brandon worked his way up from intern to executive in production and development through stops at Paramount Pictures, Lionsgate, DreamWorks Animation, and Fox. Brandon has also taught at New York University and the University of California, Los Angeles. Brandon holds an Ed.D. from the University of Louisiana at Monroe, an MBA from the University of Arizona, and a BA in Communication from the University of Southern California. He also completed the Professional Program in Producing at the University of California, Los Angeles.

How it Works

Cancellation Policy: You may cancel for a full refund up to 5 days prior to the start of the class. Cancellations requested after this period will be ineligible for refunds.

Please ensure you are familiar with our Code of Conduct.

The Roadmap Promise

Roadmap Writers prides itself on the quality of executives we bring to our programs and we work hard to get you the best feedback possible.

Our vetted executives are chosen by the legitimacy of the companies they work for and their ability to evaluate pitches and pages.

Only the executives you sign up for will be provided with your materials.