Most people, at some stage of their life, will a feel a spark of an idea for a film or TV series. But turning an idea into a hit screenplay takes work, dedication and patience.
Screenwriting is a very different beast than writing in any other format. In screenwriting, you need to always remember that you are writing for the screen. As well as creating characters, building structure, and planting details throughout your story that will pay off by the end, you’re also visually storytelling.
With over 50 video credits to his name and a degree in film and television, Melbourne filmmaker Rocky Rose is an expert in the practice of screenwriting. He’s developed a slate of projects with award-winning writer-director Jason Raftopoulos and is sharing his wisdom at the CAE in our Introduction to Screenwriting course.
Caption: Rocky in his element (Supplied: Rocky Rose)
Act I: The beginning
How Rocky became a screenwriting teacher
In 2023, Rocky was one of 10 Australian filmmakers selected to participate in the Platform: Labs creative program at the Sydney Film Festival.
At the intensive workshop, accomplished filmmakers from all over the world tutored participants on how to develop a screenplay in 5 days and then pitch it on stage.
During the program, Rocky received a lot of feedback from fellow filmmakers on his ability to articulate his writing and his talent for developing his vision.
Teaching was not something he had considered before. But after this experience, he felt encouraged to pursue it.
It wasn’t long until Rocky joined the CAE, which he says has been one of the most rewarding parts of his career.
Act II: The middle
What to expect from Rocky’s class
Rocky has designed his classes for anyone at any level of writing ability. His classes are designed to be a collaborative environment, where everyone’s taste in films and television is welcomed and embraced.
In the Introduction to Screenwriting course, Rocky will guide you through the entire development process of a feature film. In 6 weeks, you will decide on your concept, adapt it to a 3-act structure, develop characters and your theme. This will culminate in you completing your first draft, which you will pitch to the class.
While pitching your project can sound daunting, Rocky says the camaraderie in the class makes it a very rewarding, fun and safe experience.
“I remember one student – who had never written anything creative before – pitched a film idea that had the room in awe,” he said.
“It was personal, powerful, touching, and exemplified how far you can come in 6 short weeks.”
“It was amazing and made me proud to be their teacher!”
Act III: The end
What you’ll get out of Rocky’s class
One of the biggest takeaways from Rocky’s course is that the benefits of learning screenwriting extend well beyond writing a script.
“The skills and principles of storytelling that I teach are transferrable to many industries, which is why I love teaching this class.”
He feels privileged that the lessons he has passed on have helped his students in their everyday life. His tips and tricks have helped his students working in customer service, social media marketing, and as managers selling a vision to their teams.
It’s a shared love of film and television that really brings students together.
“It’s so special to me that many of my students continue to work on their projects after completing the course. They collaborate with people they’ve met in the class, and I love that they keep me updated on their progress.”
Want to see how screenwriting could help you write a new scene in your life story? Join Rocky and enrol in our Introduction to Screenwriting course.