Screenwriting with Aaron Sorkin

Aaron Sorkin’s MasterClass on screenwriting offers an in-depth exploration of the craft, drawing from his extensive experience in film and television. The course is structured into several key sections:

Here’s what you’ll discover inside:

• Intention and Obstacle: Sorkin emphasizes that every scene should revolve around a character’s clear intention and the obstacles they face, forming the backbone of compelling drama.
• Story Development: He guides students on testing the viability of their ideas and determining the appropriate medium—film or television—for their stories.
• Character Development: Sorkin delves into creating multifaceted characters, using examples from his works like The Social Network and The West Wing to illustrate his points.
• Research and Incorporation: He discusses effective research methods and how to seamlessly integrate factual information into narratives without disrupting the story’s flow.
• Audience Engagement: Sorkin shares techniques for crafting stories that actively engage audiences, ensuring they are invested in the narrative.
• Scene Construction: He provides insights into structuring scenes to maintain momentum and ensure each one advances the overall narrative.
• Dialogue Writing: Known for his sharp dialogue, Sorkin teaches how to write conversations that are both realistic and captivating, treating dialogue as a form of music with its own rhythm and cadence.
• Rewriting Process: He underscores the importance of revisions, offering strategies for refining scripts and the value of feedback from trusted sources.
• Practical Workshops: The course includes group workshops where Sorkin critiques scripts, providing practical advice and demonstrating the application of his teachings.
• Industry Insights: Sorkin offers guidance on pitching scripts, collaborating with directors and actors, and navigating the business aspects of screenwriting.

By the end of the MasterClass, students will have a comprehensive understanding of screenwriting, equipped with practical tools and insights to craft compelling scripts that resonate with audiences.

Upon completing the course, you will be able to download an official diploma in the “certificates” section of your profile.