Have you been working on a feature film idea and just can’t seem to get the project off the ground? Maybe you’ve written a draft but know it needs another pass. Or perhaps you need inspiration and accountability to get past writer's block?
The Harvardwood Feature Writing Intensive (FWI) brings together Harvardwood members for 10–12 weeks of focused writing, support, and accountability—whether you're working on a first draft, revising toward a polished script, or aiming for another milestone of your choice.
Commitment
The program will be accepting applications until May 6 at 11:59pm ET.
As with all Harvardwood writing groups, there is a high expectation of preparation and writing done outside of the meetings (approx. 15-20 hours per week) as well as a strict attendance policy, so please make sure that you can commit fully before applying. Please keep in mind that dual commitments to other writing programs (like the Harvardwood TV Modules) can become very hard to maintain. Participants are required to give constructive feedback to fellow writers in each session, so there is an expectation that you will have read applicable work prior to each meeting. You will be expected to attend the weekly meetings with no more than two absences.
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Description
Each writer should expect to: pitch his or her story to the group, finalize a thorough outline from beginning to end, and turn in pages in predetermined blocks (by act, sequence, or scene, etc). Each group will strive for a "writers' room" format and will aim to give focused attention to the projects of 2-3 members every week.
Eligibility
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All participants must be Full Members of Harvardwood (Friends of Harvardwood are eligible to participate in NYC and Boston Programs. They may also partner with a Full Harvardwood member. If accepted as a writing team, both writers must be dues-paying Harvardwood Members and both writers must pay the program fee.
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All participants must submit the program fee before the first meeting.
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Details
If accepted, you will meet once a week for 3 hours, either virtually, in-person, or possibly in a hybrid format. There will be between 4-6 other writers in your group. ​
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The goal of this intensive module is to follow a structured program where clear deadlines help you meet your goal.
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The Feature Writing Intensive may also include:
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Table reads of selected scenes from your script
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Virtual guest speaker events
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An opportunity to pitch your feature to industry professionals in an educational setting (You must adhere to the attendance policy to qualify).​
FWI will focus on these key aspects of screenplay development:
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Developing a strong act structure
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Conveying a solid theme or themes
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Creating characters that have depth, agency, and arc
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Building a beat sheet to chart the escalation of conflict
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Implementing strategies for weaving multiple storylines
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Writing realistic dialogue that captures the essence of your characters
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Developing a strong and memorable opening and ending
Expectations: This Intensive is for those who are serious about writing and are willing to not only work on and present their own projects, but also review the work of others as part of weekly critiques and discussion.
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Program fee: If accepted, the fee will be $100 prior to your first meeting.