Enrollment extended until...
Screening At A Film Festival
"I had never written a screenplay before and now I've completed post-production for my short film! We recently screened at our first of many festivals - Coney Island Film Festival. I loved starting small, with writing a short script, then following that with the self production modules. It breaks everything down into tangible, manageable steps. If you're serious about creating your own work, this is a great place to be."
Kelly Camille Patterson
Finally write your short film (and star in it!)
If you’re tired of waiting for the industry to pick you so you can do what you love, it’s time to take your success into your own hands. And the best way to do that is to write and star in your own short film.
The one that not only your audience will relate to, but can also put you on the map for the kind of roles you should be playing!
It’s time to finally write that idea you’ve been thinking about forever and turn it into your dream role. And I’m going to help you every step of the way.
Don't Create in a Vacuum
When you try to figure out how to write all by yourself you fall into one or more of these traps:
You don’t know where (or how) to get started
You have an idea (or many ideas) but that’s as far as you get. When it comes to plot points or structure or taking the first step, you get overwhelmed and don’t take action.
You’ve tried to write in the past but got stuck
When you sit down to write you start-stop-hate everything-delete-start again. Rinse and repeat on an endless loop. You’ve put a lot of work into this idea, but you’re no closer to a finished script than when you first started.
You don’t know what you don’t know
It’s the perfect catch-22 to keep you stuck! If you don’t know how to turn your idea into a finished script, then there are writing tools you just don’t have…yet. The question is, how much time and effort do you want to spend trying to find the missing pieces?
I’ve been there, done that, and I don’t recommend it. That’s why I’m so passionate that you don’t create in a vacuum.
With the Short Film Lab Intensive you get a proven, step-by-step writing process to go from idea-in-your-head to finished script. During our 3-day workshop you get to test out your idea, ask questions, and get the support you need to finally move this project forward. No more guesswork. You’ll get to a finished script a lot faster, and it’ll be a lot better.
Emily Grace
Short Film Lab Creator
I’m Emily Grace, founder of Pickford West Society and creator of the Short Film Lab. In addition to helping actors finally write their damn script already (and know what to do with it) I’m also a Sundance award-winning actress (Special Jury Prize for Emotional Truth).
I had an idea for a script I wanted to write forever. I thought writing would be easy. After all I had extensive acting training, I’d read hundreds of scripts and broken down a bazillion auditions. I knew how to break down a scene and craft a performance. Not to mention my time behind the camera, when I worked with an independent film producer in the $5M -$50M range.
I learned the hard way that writing can feel impossible when you create in a vacuum and try to figure it out all by yourself. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
When I stopped trying to figure it out all by myself, I got help. I studied with a working TV writer who showed me professional-level tools to finally turn my idea into a script I was proud of. Instead of creating in a vacuum, I learned a step-by-step process I could follow to get my script to the finish line. And I got there so much faster (and it was way more fun) than the painful process of going it alone.
For the past 15 years I've helped actors create success on their own terms. Once I learned how to write, I found myself sharing these tools over and over again with my clients. It was clear to me how many actors want to create their own project, but they don't know how to get started.
That's why I created the Short Film Lab.
Learning how to write is an act of empowerment. Once you learn these tools, you never have to wait for the industry to pick you in order to do what you love. You can create the kind of roles that only you can play, the stories you most want to see, and use the films you create to put yourself on the map.
I invite you to join me.
Melanie Collup
Feedback Group Leader
I'm Melanie Collup, and I lead the Feedback Sessions in the Short Film Lab. As a graduate of the program myself, I use these tools constantly to write all of my scripts.
I am an actress and screenwriter out of love. I became a producer and filmmaker out of necessity. I don’t wait anymore for other people to give me the opportunity to act. I create those opportunities for myself!
The first short film I ever wrote for myself to act in won the award for Best Comedy Film at the Austin Micro Film Festival. And my half-hour comedy pilot (with a lead role I wrote for myself) has placed in multiple screenwriting competitions, including a finalist in the Female Driven Screenwriting Contest.
I have two short films and an eight episode web series scheduled to shoot this year!
I love helping other actors create opportunities for themselves (I guess that’s a carryover from my years as a public school teacher) through their writing and self-producing.
And it’s so much more fun than sitting home and waiting for my phone to ring! I look forward to meeting you in the feedback group and holding you accountable.
Introducing the Short Film Lab Intensive
This is a 3-day workshop on Zoom to help you finally write your damn script already.
In just 3 days you'll learn our entire process to go from idea-in-your head to finished script. No more excuses. No more trying to figure it out by yourself. No more doubt or second-guessing your idea.
Just a step-by-step writing process and an environment of support to write a script you love with a role you were born to play.
Don't intend to act in your project? Great! These tools will work for anyone who wants to write a short film.
Here's what you'll get:
3 Day Intensive
In just 3 days you'll learn our entire process to go from idea-in-your head to finished short film.
From character development to story structure and everything in between, this intensive will help you hit the ground running.
We'll leave plenty of time for questions, snacks, and stretch breaks in this interactive workshop. You’ll leave this program with the tools you need to finally write your short film
Small Breakout Groups
Throughout our 3 days, you'll have lots of time to take action on what you're learning and connect with your fellow attendees,.
Your breakout sessions are the place to test your idea as you go, see what works and what needs work, and make your idea as powerful as possible.
Event Recordings
This entire intensive will be recorded and made available to you to keep.
That way you can catch up on what you missed if you have to miss any part of this 3-day event.
With lifetime access to the material, you can go at your own pace and revisit these tools anytime.
Event Schedule
October 6-8, 2023
DAY 1
Major Character Archetypes
Create a compelling protagonist and antagonist to give your story conflict.
3-dimensional Characters
Write flawed, nuanced characters your audience roots for.
Make It Personal
Learn how to tailor this project to you as an actor (if you plan to be in it), and create a project that is meaningful to you.
DAY 2
Anatomy Of A Scene
I’ll teach you how to get to the heart of your scene quickly, pack a powerful punch and move your story forward.
Pro Tips For Good Dialogue
Learn my best pro tips for writing good dialogue that isn't on the nose.
Deepen Your Characters
Know your characters inside + out to make the most compelling film possible.
DAY 3
3-Act Story Structure
Elevate yourself to the level of professional writer with proper structure. Repeat this lesson again and again for all your future projects.
How To Write A Producible Script
This lesson is crucial to keep your idea within a budget that is doable.
Create Your Outline
Have you ever tried to write a short film without an outline? You quickly write yourself into a corner, delete, and start again. I’ve been there!
Learning how to outline will change the game for you.
It’s so important, we’ll spend our last afternoon getting your outline into great shape.
Plus This Awesome Bonus
The Self Production Program
This digital video series will guide you every step of the way from pre-production to post-production.
If you plan to produce and star in your short film, this program will guide you through the entire process (so you don't lose your mind)!
From legal protections to SAG paperwork, to hiring your crew and taking care of yourself on set, with the Self Production Program as your guide, you can cast yourself in the leading role you were born to play!
Total value: $697
*available at the Platinum Level or above*
Is The Short Film Lab Intensive right for you?
Let's make sure we're the right fit! This program is for you if...
- You want to write a short film (even if you don’t know where to begin).
- You like to take fast action! You want to learn all the steps to write your film NOW so you can finish your script as soon as possible.
- You want to put yourself on the map by writing the role you were born to play
- You have an idea you’ve been thinking about forever and you’re ready to write it already
- You are new to storytelling and want the tools to know what you’re doing and kick ass
- You intend to produce your own content (and maybe even act in it), and want guidance on how to make that happen
- You want to test out your idea in a group setting to make it as strong as possible
- You thrive in a group environment of support, deadlines, and accountability
If you answered "yes" to most of these, then you belong in the Short Film Lab Intensive.
Join the
Short Film Lab Intensive
A 3-day workshop to finally write your damn script already!
October 6-8, 2023 on Zoom
10am - 5pm pacific
CHOOSE YOUR PACKAGE BELOW
Standard
Your ticket to the 3-day intensive on Zoom.
- Professional-level writing tools to go from idea-in-your-head to finished script
- Access to live feedback during the event
- Small breakout groups to take action on what you're learning and test your idea as you go
- Lifetime access to the event recordings.
*2ND PAYMENT BILLED OCTOBER 5, 2023*
Platinum
Everything in the Standard package plus...
- The Self Production Program: Learn the entire process from pre-production to post-production, so you can get your film made. ($697 value)
*2ND PAYMENT BILLED OCTOBER 5, 2023*
You don't need permission to do what you love.
As an actor it can feel like you spend most of your career waiting...
☎️ for the phone to ring
⏳ for the perfect audition to come along
🤞 hoping you get called in for it
🙏 and praying that they pick you and this is finally your big break to put you on the map
That's a lot of waiting, hoping and praying. And that can leave you feeling frustrated and powerless.
The good news is:
It Doesn't Have To Be That Way
When you know how to write a project for yourself, it empowers you to take your success into your own hands.
With you in the driver's seat you get to...
- Create a starring role tailor-made for you
- Work on a project that matters
- Create your own opportunities
- And put yourself on the map for the kind of roles you should be playing.
No more waiting for permission or hoping to get picked. Just the kind of stories that you want to see get made, with a guaranteed part for you to play.
You'll leave the intensive with a new found confidence that you have the power to create the career you really want.
Are We A Match?
This program is not for everyone. Here's how to know if it's the right fit for you.
The Short Film Lab is FOR you if:
- You have an idea you've been wanting to write forever and you're ready to go all in
- You're new to writing and want professional-level tools to write something you're proud of
- You've never written before and you're ready to get started
- You want to write a short film with a role for you to star in
- You want to tell a story that matters to you
- You want to write a short film (or use these tools to write a feature film)
- Once your film is written, you want to learn how to self-produce it
- You want structure, accountability and community to help you stay on track
- You understand the importance of high-level feedback to make your script the best it can be
The Short Film Lab is NOT for you if:
- You want to write a tv pilot. The act structure you'll learn works for short films or feature films. TV pilot structure is not covered here.
- You want to pitch and sell your project to someone else. This program is for people who want to self-produce their project (and your bonus program will show you how).
- You already know everything about screenwriting.
- You want to learn how to pitch. That is not covered in this program.
- You are not open to candid feedback.
- You have already written your entire script and want feedback on your final draft. This program is designed to create your project from the ground up.
If you're ready to finally write your damn script already, with professional level writing tools, and feedback to support you every step of the way, we can't wait work with you!
What others say about working with us…
Take the leap.
"Learning the elements it takes to create depth of characters and story helped me to start to flesh my idea out. Before Short Film Lab, I wrote without any concept of structure or the proper formatting. It was a hot mess. Now I can see myself really having a complete script and going into production. If you’re on the fence about taking Short Film Lab, I say, 'JUMP, stop straddling!'"
Annzella Victoria
Dream big, get started
"Before the Short Film Lab I struggled to nail down my idea and have it actually make sense. Once I learned how to start the screenwriting process it allowed me to dream big and get started.
I loved hearing other people's stories, learning which ideas work and which ones don't, and I loved the tool about how to write action lines in the present tense - something I had never thought about before.
This program is very accessible, informative, and fun. Definitely do it!"
Emma Terazzas
Be bold.
"Emily helped me realize that I can be direct and bold in my language, and that the thing I was afraid to say in my script is actually the thing that grabs the listener."
Karole Foreman
Real, beneficial support.
"I had tried to write a project on my own and always got stuck. In Short Film Lab I learned a step-by-step method for developing a story with compelling characters. Because of Short Film Lab I have much more developed and interesting characters and a solid understanding of story structure. I got real, beneficial support given with expertise and love! If you have a script in process, an idea for a script, or even just an urge to write something, this is for you."
Jensen Power
I never felt alone.
"Before joining Short Film Lab, I suffered from imposteur syndrome and the procrastination that goes with it. I got more clarity on the structure aspects of a screenplay and incredibly valuable directions given by Emily and also by other students. I loved the step by step approach. I never felt alone. Being part of a group gives you power."
Matheiu Bisson
Get off the fence and get creating!
"I am not too small to be able to write, pitch and or produce my own stories to networks and content distributors. My eyes have been open to a new world of producing and being a content creator."
Cherene R Francis
This is my dream role
"Since working with Emily I've made my script even stronger..I am in great shape to move into pre-production with a script that truly reflects my dream role, and that feels totally doable!"
Ashley Gianni
Dream big, dream with direction
"Emily gives clear feedback that helps me dream big but also dream with direction."
Autumn Silvas
Find the strongest story
"Before working with Emily I had a script that was missing the kind of depth that makes a story really compelling. I was hoping to flesh out my plot points and characters and to take it from an 'idea' to a final draft.
Learning about character squares was a very clear blueprint for how to create compelling characters with the ability to drive story endlessly.
This program has helped flesh out my script and find the strongest story."
Kristina Paras
Gain knowledge and confidence
"Life was scary in my 'I'm not good enough to be a writer' feelings. I still struggle with that, but I'm gaining confidence and an understanding of the creative process from the program! I'm LESS scared of calling myself a writer or creator."
Jill Maglione
Look forward to writing
"I actually look forward to sitting down to write rather than dreading the fight with my inner critic that often comes along with the writing process."
Rachel Sledd
Pilates for the Artist's soul
"It requires effort, but you'll be a stronger, better, more disciplined writer by the end of it. If you thrive on creativity, but need some help with your follow through... this is the place for you!"
Patty Kiernan
Confident and committed
"I am more committed to my writing and I feel confident I am acquiring the tools I need."
Melanie Collup
Finish that damn script
"If you want to finish that damn script already, this is the place to do it!"
Emma Pyne
Confidence and power
"I had never written a project for myself before and I wanted to gain the tools to write a screenplay and just get past that fear of even starting somewhere. In this class I gained clarity on the steps to take to begin writing and how to improve the script little by little. I got practical tools for screenwriting. I feel more confident as a storyteller and a little bit more in power to move my career forward by writing my own material.
You should definitely take this class if you have an idea about a character you would like to play but don't know where to begin, or even if you want to gain clarity about what story you would like to tell and give it a try! It is a wonderful journey that expands your skills as a storyteller. And it's also a lot of fun!"
Gaia Passaler
Get Started
Finally write your damn script already!
My wish for you...
As an actor, it can feel like so much of your career is out of your hands. But I firmly believe you have so much more power than you realize.
Learning how to write a professional-level short film is an act of empowerment.
Instead of waiting for permission, or hoping to get picked, you get to take control of your own success.
It means you can…
Write the kind of role only you can play, so you can show the industry exactly what you’re capable of.
Write the stories that matter to you, so the time and energy you spend on your career feels meaningful.
Put yourself in control of your success, so you never have to wait to get picked by the industry.
Open the doors to bigger opportunities that are in alignment with the kind of work you care about.
Leave a lasting impact on your audience, who will be inspired, moved, and affected by the stories you choose to tell.
Unlike a feature film, or a tv pilot, learning how to write a short takes less time. Self-production is absolutely within reach. And you get a tangible project that you can share with the world a lot faster.
This builds your confidence as a writer, and inspires you to create more and more projects that excite and fulfill you.
My wish for you is the power of your own
creative fulfillment.
That's what this program is for. If that speaks to you, then what are you waiting for? Say yes to yourself and let’s get started!
FAQs
I'm new to writing, will this be too advanced for me?
Nope! If you're new to writing, you're in the right place. The Short Film Lab Intensive gives you every step you need to take from idea-in-your-head to finished script.
Each writing tool is broken down into baby steps to keep you focused on what matters and out of overwhelm. It's the fastest way to get your script to the finish line.
I have some writing experience, will this be to basic for me?
Do you have a step-by-step, repeatable process to write your scripts? If not, the program will show you the way.
Do you have total confidence in yourself as a writer who's script is at a professional level? If not, the program will help you get to that level.
If you've written in the past, you already know it can be a challenge. And without a roadmap to follow, it can feel like you're stuck in the never-ending loop of star, stop, hate everything, delete, start again.
The Short Film Lab Intensive takes the guesswork out of the writing process. There's no more spinning out, wondering if your idea is good enough, or what step to take next. Just follow the steps laid out for you inside the program to elevate your writing to pro-level, with a script you can't wait to share with the world.
I want to produce my script once it’s written but I have no idea how to do that.
Great! That’s why, when your ticket is Platinum Level or above, you’ll get my entire Self Production Program as a bonus.
Take the guesswork out of production. Simply follow the steps I’ve laid out for you and you’ll be on the set of your own project in no time.
Do I have to be an actor, or have to act in my film?
No. The only thing you need is the desire to learn how to write a professional-level short film. You don't have to be an actor, or want to write a role for you to play. Anyone who wants to learn how to write a screenplay is welcome.
Can my writing partner join me?
Yes, but they will need a separate ticket. This program is designed to develop your unique voice as a writer, and we want each member of your writing team to get the full value from this experience.
I have another question not answered here.
Email us at info@emilygrace.tv
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