VFS Writing: Intro to Animation Writing

Aspiring writers with a vision for an animated feature will sharpen their skills for this unique medium in this 4-week course.

Writing for Animation is a unique screenwriting form that leaves room for experimentation and creativity. Throughout the course, participants will explore the differences and similarities between writing for animation and writing for live action. They will complete a series pitch, beat sheet, and outline for an 11-minute animation series, which will be workshopped with their peers. The course also covers career-building strategies, pitch strategies, portfolio development, and networking.

Schedule: Online, Wednesdays, Aug 12 – Sept 2, 6-8pm, Pacific Daylight Time. Please check your time zone.

• Aug 12 (first class)
• Aug 19
• Aug 26
• Sept 2 (final class)

Cost: 400 CAD

Instructor: Amit Tishler

Learning Outcomes – Participants Will:

• Contextualize animation writing terminology.
• Review formats, techniques, and common practices in animation writing.
• Learn the basics of building compelling characters, worlds, and concepts for an animated show.
• Construct and practice pitching an animated show.
• Learn how to apply tools like act breakdowns, beat sheets, and outlines to an 11-minute animated pilot format.

Requirements:

• This is an online course. Participants must have a device with stable internet, and a working camera and microphone.
• Prior experience is not required.

Prerequisites:

Participants are not required to have any previous training or experience.