2.Main Content
Training
Horror & Slasher
Switchblade Romance
Thursday 15 March 2012
10am - 5pm The Studio, BFI Southbank
Slaughtering dim and promiscuous teenagers or unleashing the ghosts of murdered children have been big box-office attractions in recent years. Whether you’re conjuring up the supernatural or imagining the evils perpetrated by axe wielding maniacs, this session looks at current trends in horror movies and the art of terrifying an audience.
COURSE OUTLINE
Session 1: Introduction: ‘It’s not human – and it’s got an axe (again)’
Fear, shock, disgust and suspense are the essential ingredients of any horror film. This session outlines the premise, themes and basic scenarios of different kinds of horror: from chilling ghost stories to power-tool gore shockers. Given the fashion for re-makes, long-running franchises and self-parody, is the genre exhausted or are there new sources for contemporary horror?
Session 2: ‘I know you’re in there!’ : Plot
In the rush to deliver set-piece shocks and final-reel slaughter horror writers frequently create illogical plots. With the emphasis on blood, smash-cuts and special effects, the underlying dramatic structure is forgotten. This session looks at different ways of structuring a story to maximise terror and suspense.
Session 3: ‘We’re all gonna die!’: Character
From The Bride of Frankenstein to Saw horror has generated a host of legendary monsters and insane killers. Their victims, however, are often no more than two-dimensional types. Is this inevitable or is it just bad writing? This session examines the problems of creating credible characters in genres driven by violence and excess.
Session 4 : ‘What’s so scary?’ : Developing Horror Stories
Drawing on a range of films currently in development, this session explores the process of creating a horror script and examines the trends in contemporary British horror.
Participants are encouraged to bring ideas or outlines for the kind of horror film they would like to write or produce.
Course Tutor
The workshop is taught by Rob Ritchie an experienced screenwriting tutor, writer and script consultant.
The Ring Two
Booking Information
The cost of the one-day Horror/Slasher workshop is £135 + VAT (total £162). Script Factory Members, Members of BFI and Shooting People are eligible for a 10% discount, making the fee £121.50 + VAT (total £145.80).
To secure your place book now via PayPal by choosing from the following options:
Genre Season: Horror and Slasher – 15 March 2012 – Full Price
Genre Season: Horror and Slasher – 15 March 2012 – Member’s Price
If you would prefer to pay by credit card please email us with a contact number and we will call to arrange payment.
Please note that once paid, Script Factory course fees are non-refundable.
The workshop runs from 10am–5pm at BFI Southbank and is limited to just 20 participants. Some preparatory reading or viewing may be required.