Class Film Dramaturgy

In this seminar (curricular unit), we will explore the concept and practice of dramaturgy in cinema. Our focus will be on the transition from text to image, and on working with actors in cinema and audiovisual media. Finally, we will analyse the internal mechanics of a seminal text of modern dramaturgy, considering how it has been adapted for cinema.

Not applicable

Part I  1. Theory of Dramaturgy and Screenwriting. Cinemathographic language as a mediator in the transition from text 2. Narrative structure and the constructed use of space 3. The character as the driving force of dramaturgy 4. Rhythm, editing and dramaturgy 5. The screenplay as a working document: functions, losses and gains in the transition Part II: 1. From text to set and actors, and from actors to text. 2. Some methods of actor development 3. Presentation and discussion of cases of representation in cinema and audiovisual media. 4. The director's work with the actor: study visits to the set Part III: 1. Dramaturgy: How literary does a dramatic work need to be? 2. 'Close the door': the categorical imperative of intimate theatre 3. ‘Long Day's Journey into Night’ as Creative Autobiography 4. The problem of time: a single day, a whole life 5. Tragedy or melodrama? 

The course (curricular unit) is based on a balanced combination of methodologies. Traditional theoretical exposition introduces students to the fundamental concepts of dramaturgy and screenwriting, providing them with a solid theoretical foundation. The practical component builds on these concepts through direct application and analysis of case studies exploring the transition from text to image, as well as the relationship between theatrical text and film adaptation. Study visits to the set provide a valuable opportunity to observe and analyse the interaction between director, actor and text, consolidating learning in the process.

ADLER, Strella (1999). Sobre Ibsen, Strindberg & Chekhov. Organização e prefácio de Barry Paris. Tradução de Sônia Coutinho. Rio de Janeiro: Bertrand Brasil (2002) ARISTÓTELES (c. 323 a.C.). Poética. Tradução de Eudoro de Sousa. Lisboa: IN-CM (1ª edição, 1986) BENTLEY, Eric (1946, 1987). O Dramaturgo Como Pensador. Tradução de Ana Zelma Campos. Rio de Janeiro: Civilização Brasileira, 1991 BLOOM, Harold (1987). Eugene O’Neill’s “Long Day’s Journey Into Night”. Philadelphia: Chelsea House BOAL, Augusto (1974). Teatro do Oprimido e Outras Poéticas Políticas. Rio de Janeiro: Civilização Brasileira, 1991 COMEY, Jeremiah (2002). The Art od Film Acting. A Guide for Actors and Directors. Londres: Focal Press SARRAZAC, Jean-Pierre (2025). Teatros Íntimos. Porto/V.N. Famalicão: Teatro Nacional São João/Húmus