Last Updated on December, 2024
Discovering the ideal online screenwriting course can be a game-changer for aspiring writers looking to learn screenwriting. In a digital era where storytelling spans various platforms, honing your screenwriting skills online offers convenience and flexibility.
This article dives into the realm of best online screenwriting courses, providing a complete guide to discovering the top options available for you to choose from.
Whether you’re a budding writer or looking to enhance your storytelling finesse, the right screenwriting class can make all the difference, these courses promise to nurture your creativity and provide valuable insight into the world of screenwriting, from covering the basic fundamentals to advanced screenwriting techniques.
Let’s kickstart your screenwriting journey that will empower you to weave captivating narratives for your audience.
Contents
- 7 of the Best Online Screenwriting Courses
- 1. Aaron Sorkin Teaches Screenwriting
- 2. Shonda Rhimes Teaches Writing for Television
- 3. Screenwriting and Storytelling Blueprint: Hero’s Two Journeys
- 4. Screenwriting Masterclass: Script Writing & Screenplays
- 5. Beginning Screenwriting Made EASY
- 6. Screenwriting for Beginners
- 7. Inspirational Screenwriting
- What to Look for When Choosing an Online Screenwriting Course?
- Advantages of Taking Screenwriting Classes Online
- FAQs
- Final Note
7 of the Best Online Screenwriting Courses
There are many screenwriting courses online available to choose from. Here are the top options that we’ve handpicked for you to consider.
1. Aaron Sorkin Teaches Screenwriting
Platform: MasterClass.
Instructor: Aaron Sorkin.
Course length: 35 video lessons (8 hours).
Standard Price: $10/mo.
Level: Beginner and Intermediate.
Aaron Sorkin, an award-winning screenwriter renowned for his scripts in ‘The West Wing’ and ‘The Social Network,’ brings his expertise to his beginner online screenwriting class for both TV and films.
His journey to fame began when he penned his screenplay script ‘A Few Good Men’ on a cocktail napkin. The play was later transformed into a widely acclaimed movie adaptation.
As a prolific American screenwriter deeply immersed in the world of drama, Sorkin covers extensive material in this screenwriting course, such as the intricacies of dialogue writing, building compelling characters, and creating marketable scripts, offering a thorough exploration perfect for those seeking comprehensive insight on the screenwriting process.
Sorkin’s teaching style is direct and focused, avoiding unnecessary anecdotes. The course not only imparts the rules of drama but also includes case studies from Sorkin’s own works and other films.
Through these, he decodes narrative structures, helping students grasp diverse story and character arcs, develop plots, and master the art of character development.
Pros
Cons
Overview: Aaron Sorkin’s course is one of the best screenwriting classes online and MasterClass courses on screenwriting. It keeps its promises and delivers on how to master script writing and television writing from the words of a professional writer, making it a viable option.
2. Shonda Rhimes Teaches Writing for Television
Platform: MasterClass.
Instructor: Shonda Rhimes.
Course length: 30 video lessons (6 hours and 25 minutes).
Standard Price: $180 for the annual pass.
Level: Intermediate.
Shonda Rhimes, a prominent American TV and film writer known for creating the popular medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ has carved a niche in the film and television industry.
If you harbor aspirations of TV writing and wish to explore diverse opportunities within the industry, Shonda Rhimes’ screenwriting course is tailor-made for you.
In her online screenwriting class, Shonda Rhimes personally guides you through her career journey, providing valuable lessons in scriptwriting, including researching, plotting, and honing your character development skills.
Rhimes generously shares her experiences, offering tips on establishing a writing routine, navigating the writers’ room, and making a lasting impact in the film industry.
This screenwriting class also provides valuable resources, predominantly case-specific, for your ongoing reference.
Pros
Cons
Overview: Shonda Rhimes’ Masterclass stands out as one of the best online screenwriting classes, offering a unique blend of expertise and practical insights on how to write feature films and TV scripts. This online screenwriting class is a good choice for those seeking to elevate their television writing skills and even advanced writers to gain firsthand wisdom from a seasoned professional.
3. Screenwriting and Storytelling Blueprint: Hero’s Two Journeys
Platform: Udemy.
Instructor: Michael Hauge and Christoper Vogler.
Course length: 39 lectures (8 hours and 7 minutes).
Standard Price: $74.99.
Level: Intermediate and Advanced.
Michael Hauge is a prominent script consultant with over three decades of experience in Hollywood, having mentored numerous screenwriters, novelists, and professional speakers.
In this course, he joins co-teacher Christopher Vogler, a published author and screenwriter, to guide you in understanding screenwriting basics and principles.
The advanced course focuses on imparting skills such as crafting a compelling narrative structure, mapping out character arcs, and balancing commercial and artistic success.
Hauge is one of the top industry experts whose knowledge makes this course valuable for those looking to enhance their understanding of the core aspects of successful screenwriting.
Pros
Cons
Overview: This is the best screenwriting course for intermediate and advanced writers, aiming to improve their storytelling skills to create a stronger connection with the audience.
4. Screenwriting Masterclass: Script Writing & Screenplays
Platform: Udemy.
Instructor: Phil Ebinner and Brian Birmingham.
Course length: 43 lectures (3 hours and 36 minutes).
Standard Price: $69.99
Level: Beginner and Intermediate.
This screenwriting course teaches all the basics of screenwriting, like creating plots and characters, writing dialogue, and editing. It focuses on storytelling and theory, uncommon in many other screenwriting courses.
You’ll have assignments to do during the course, prepping you to write a screenplay of your own at the end. Plus, they’ll give you free screenwriting tools to help you with your screenplay.
Pros
Cons
Overview: This course is an excellent introduction for those completely new to professional storytelling and screenwriting structure. The standout feature is the exercises, which inspire students to delve into their own uniqueness as writers, making it one of the best online screenwriting classes that engage with its students.
5. Beginning Screenwriting Made EASY
Platform: Udemy.
Instructor: Word Dancer/Pamela Kay.
Course Length: 38 lectures (2 hours and 49 minutes).
Standard Price: $54.99.
Level: Beginner and Intermediate.
In this course, led by Pamela Kay, a screenwriter and content creator, you’ll receive a step-by-step guide to screenwriting. The class covers fundamental aspects like planning your movie screenplay, structure, and character development.
Additionally, you’ll gain insights into how to write and format a screenplay and what steps to take after completing your initial draft.
Throughout the course, you’ll discover how to connect your ideas with an audience, develop your characters as the story progresses, leverage industry secrets, and receive valuable student feedback on your screenplay.
It’s a comprehensive approach to learning the essentials of crafting a compelling movie screenplay.
Pros
Cons
Overview: This is one of the best screenwriting courses designed for people who want to explore screenwriting as a creative pursuit. It’s also helpful for those who’ve written books and want to turn their stories into screenplays. It’s a fun and informative class with a broad appeal for new and experienced writers. It also provides some valuable tips on advancing in the screenwriting business.
6. Screenwriting for Beginners
Platform: Udemy.
Instructor: David Ford.
Course Length: 6 lectures (1 hour and 33 minutes).
Standard Price: $24.99.
Level: Beginner.
If you’re just starting and want a brief course to grasp the fundamentals and kickstart your journey in screenwriting, this option may be the one for you. David Ford is an award-winning screenwriter and has the teachers’ experience.
This course covers the screenwriting basics, breaks down the elements of a screenplay, and guides you on breaking into the industry. Throughout the course, David shares examples and discusses his personal experiences, making it easier to grasp the concepts.
It’s a beginner-friendly option for those eager to understand the essentials of screenwriting and gain insights from an accomplished screenwriter.
Pros
Cons
Overview: This is one of the best online screenwriting classes for beginners. If you want to kickstart your career as a screenwriter, this short and sweet course will get you started.
7. Inspirational Screenwriting
Platform: Udemy.
Instructor: Paul Castro.
Course Length: 26 lectures (2 hours and 52 minutes).
Standard Price: $199.99.
Level: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced.
Paul Castro, known for writing the ‘August Rush’ screenplay and teaching screenwriting at UCLA, brings his expertise to this course. With credits in films like ‘Speed Kills’ and ‘Wedding of Dreams,’ Castro offers valuable insights into screenwriting techniques.
This course covers plot development, creating suspenseful scenes, crafting solid characters, and using imagery effectively. It delves into the nuances that distinguish a successful screenplay from others.
As a bonus, learners receive a podcast covering five screenwriting lectures. You’ll be equipped to produce a feature-length screenplay by the course’s end.
Pros
Cons
Overview: Castro’s class is rated as one of the best screenwriting courses online on Udemy that provides advice on how to write a screenplay and tips on improving your thought process when building ideas.
What to Look for When Choosing an Online Screenwriting Course?
There are many online screenwriting courses to choose from. When selecting, several key factors can significantly influence your learning experience and overall success.
Ensure that you keep these factors in mind when selecting from the various screenwriting courses online.
Instructor Credentials
Look for screenwriting courses online that are taught by industry professionals or experienced screenwriters with a proven track record. This ensures you’re learning from someone with practical knowledge of the craft.
Course Content
Ensure that the course covers a comprehensive range of topics, from basic concepts like plot development and character creation to more advanced elements such as dialogue writing and script formatting.
A well-rounded curriculum provides a solid foundation for aspiring writers.
Flexibility
Opt for a course that fits your schedule and learning style. Some courses offer self-paced learning, allowing you to learn at your own speed, while others follow a structured schedule with set deadlines.
Choose the format that aligns with your preference and availability.
Practical Exercises and Assignments
Look for screenwriting courses online that incorporate practical exercises and assignments. Hands-on practice is essential for honing your writing skills.
Additionally, seek online courses that provide feedback on your work, as constructive criticism is invaluable for improvement.
Additional Resources
Consider the resources offered by the course. Some screenwriting classes online provide access to screenwriting tools, templates, or even writing communities. These resources enhance your learning experience and support your development as a writer.
Reviews
Read reviews and testimonials from previous students. Feedback from others who have taken the course can offer valuable insights into its effectiveness and whether it aligns with your goals.
Considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select the online screenwriting class that best suits your needs and aspirations.
Advantages of Taking Screenwriting Classes Online
These screenwriting online courses offer a dynamic and accessible platform for aspiring writers eager to learn about screenwriting. Beyond the conventional classroom setting, courses on screenwriting online have many advantages that cater to your needs.
Let’s explore some of these advantages.
Flexibility and Convenience
Screenwriting classes online offer flexibility, allowing you to learn at your own pace and tailor your schedule to fit your commitments.
Whether you have a full-time job or other commitments, online courses enable you to access lessons and assignments whenever it’s convenient for you, as opposed to having to be in a lecture hall at a particular time and having deadlines for assignments.
This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for those balancing various commitments.
Access to Industry Professionals
Enrolling in these courses often provides access to instructors who are industry professionals or experienced screenwriters.
This direct connection with seasoned professionals allows you to learn from their practical insights and gain a real-world understanding of the craft. Many of these courses feature instructors with notable film and TV industry credits.
Diverse Learning Resources
Online classes typically offer a diverse range of learning resources. These resources cater to various learning styles, from video lectures and reading materials to interactive exercises and assignments.
Additionally, online classes provide access to screenwriting tools, templates, and writing communities, enhancing your learning experience.
Cost-Effectiveness
Compared to traditional in-person classes or workshops, screenwriting courses online are often more cost-effective.
Without the need for physical classroom space, materials, or travel expenses, these courses offer a budget-friendly alternative. This accessibility allows individuals from diverse backgrounds and financial situations to pursue their interest in screenwriting.
Global Networking Opportunities
Screenwriting classes online bring together students from various locations, creating a global community of aspiring writers.
This diverse network provides opportunities for collaboration, feedback, and exchanging ideas. Engaging with a community of peers from different backgrounds can enrich your learning experience and offer valuable perspectives on storytelling.
Personalized Feedback and Interaction
Many screenwriting classes online incorporate platforms for students to submit their work and receive personalized feedback from instructors.
This interactive element allows for a more personalized learning environment, helping you grow and improve as a writer. Engaging in discussions, asking questions, and receiving guidance contributes to a supportive and dynamic educational environment.
If you want to learn screenwriting outside your traditional classroom, screenwriting classes online are an excellent choice to consider investing your time and money in.
Other course categories you might like:
FAQs
Final Note
Whether you’re a beginner or seeking to enhance your storytelling abilities, these online screenwriting classes cater to various skill levels.
Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and bring your cinematic narratives to life through the best course.
Happy learning!
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