Screenwriting: Crafting Short Film Stories (Spring 2027)

Spring 2027

Screenwriting:

Crafting Short Film Stories

This Journey focuses on the art and craft of writing compelling short film scripts. Mentees and mentors will explore the fundamentals of screenwriting, including story structure, character development, visual storytelling, and dialogue, with an emphasis on translating ideas into cinematic narratives. Through guided exercises, peer feedback, and analysis of short films and scripts, participants will develop original screenplays and strengthen clarity, intention, and emotional impact in their writing. Through developing an original short film script, mentees will strengthen screenwriting craft, build confidence in narrative development, and gain experience translating ideas into cinematic storytelling, while mentors will deepen understanding of screenwriting and support emerging writers in developing narrative structure and voice. Those who wish to continue can enroll in an optional second cycle focused on film production, exploring how scripts are brought to life on screen.

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At a time when many feel stretched thin or disconnected, Girls Write Now helps professionals feel creatively energized, supported, and seen, all while elevating the communication and leadership skills that matter most in the workplace: clear and compelling storytelling, confident public speaking, and experience expressing ideas with clarity and authenticity across teams and generations.

Fall 2026 Pre-Enrollment Is Open!

Express your interest in this Journey by filling out the form below.

You may also sign up for Mentorship on Demand at any time.

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Learning Objectives

Screenwriting Structure

Understand the key elements of short film screenplay structure, including acts, scene building, and pacing.

Writing for the Screen

Learn how to write visually for the screen, translating ideas into clear scene descriptions and cinematic action.

Character & Dialogue

Develop strong, believable characters and write dialogue that advances story and reveals subtext.

Script Drafting & Revision

Practice writing, revising, and polishing a short film screenplay through peer-feedback and iterative development.

Journey Teaching Artist

Annaya Baynes

Girls Write Now Staff

Annaya Baynes (she/they) is a Community Coordinator. They graduated from Spelman College with a Bachelor of Arts in English and French. As an undergraduate, she worked on Spelman’s social justice podcast, The Blue Record, and the reproductive justice-oriented podcast Black Feminist Rants. Annaya has interned at various publishing houses, including Penguin Random House, Macmillan, and The Feminist Press. They have a deep love for literature and film. She is a Master’s student at NYU’s Martin Scorsese Department of Cinema Studies.

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All Journeys within this Adventure focus on writing for film, television, and the stage. It is recommended for mentees and mentors who would like to create their own plays, screenplays, or teleplays. Learn more about the other Adventures offered at Girls Write Now below.

Screenwriting: Crafting Short Film Stories is a Journey in the Script 360 Adventure.

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