Class Script techniques

Aimed at MA level, this course firstly revisits the basics of scriptwriting for animation, and secondly looks in depth to different relevant areas concerned with writing for animation such as: focusing on different narrative structures, combining visual style and story, using the specific language of animation in ways to best propel the story, practicing staging, framing, transitions and continuity through storyboarding and involving the element of time and sound (thought animatics). All of these elements are studied to aid students to think of themes, conceptualise and write for animation, with more thought, depth and understanding how each of this elements will influences the story. The emphasis is both on re-visiting and learning new skills in writing, but equally focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of each student individually. The skills learned will contribute for the future production of their own MA films.

1. Writing with purpose (commercials)

2. Text vs Image (script, dialogue, narration)

3. Story structure and narrative approaches – part A - linear

4. Story structure and narrative approaches– part B - non-linear

5. The language of animation

6. Monstra

7. Storyboarding - angles / shots / camera movement

8. Timing your story - animatic

9. Expanded animation and spatial storytelling

10. Interactive narratives

11. Mood, light and space in service of storytelling

12. Visual style and story

13. Sound/music and story

14. Writing animated documentaries

15. Final assignment – guidelines - consultations

Every class consists of a theoretical introduction, after which an exercise is given to the students to immediately apply the newly introduced writing strategy/concept in practice in their own work. The methodology supports the “learning by doing” approach, and is applied throughout the course. Critical analysis and discussion is strongly encouraged.

Joan Ashworth, “Visual writing: Thicken time, transform and dissolve text”, Animation Practice, Process and production, Vol 2, No 1 and 2, 2012.

Liz Blazer. Animated Storytelling. Peachpit Press, 2016.

Paul Wells. Basics of Animation: Scriptwriting. AVA Publishing 2007.

Paul Wells. The Fundamentals of Animation, (Key Principles and Processes p.12-82). AVA Publishing 2006.