Scripting a 1-Minute Film

Writing a 1-Minute Screenplay
Allow 8-10 hrs for this learning module.

For this module we'll work in small groups of two to three.  

In our groups, we will choose a structure on which we will build our story.  

We will then decide on a theme.  Some suggestions might be: 

• Friendship and Loyalty: Explore the challenges and joys of true friendship and the importance of standing by each other's side during difficult times.

• Overcoming Fears: Tell a story of a character who faces their fears and discovers inner strength and courage to overcome obstacles.

• Environmental Conservation: Raise awareness about the environment by showcasing characters' efforts to protect nature and wildlife from harm. 

• Dystopian Future: Explore a future world filled with challenges and obstacles where characters must fight for a better society. 

• Magical Realms and Fantasy Worlds: Transport characters to magical realms with mythical creatures and enchanting adventures 

• Bullying and Empathy: Address the issue of bullying and the power of empathy and kindness to overcome it. 

• Family Bonds and Traditions: Showcase the importance of family bonds and the significance of cultural traditions in shaping characters' lives. 

Using Canva, we will:

• brainstorm characters, setting and conflict based on a theme

• create a sequence of main points

• create a mood board

We will then use a special screenwriting software called Causality to develop our narrative and flesh out our action and dialogue in the correct format.

Your final submission will be the Canva Whiteboard project as well as the screenplay in Causality.

According to ChatGPT - and I think it's right!

Writing an engaging 1-minute screenplay requires you to capture the audience's attention quickly and deliver a compelling story within a short timeframe. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you write an engaging 1-minute screenplay:

• Start with an intriguing concept: Begin with a unique and attention-grabbing concept that piques the audience's curiosity from the very first moment.

• Introduce relatable characters: Even in a short screenplay, well-developed characters are essential. Introduce characters that the audience can connect with or care about.

• Focus on a single conflict or goal: Keep the story simple by focusing on one central conflict or goal that the characters must overcome or achieve.

• Establish the setting and mood: Set the scene quickly and establish the mood to immerse the audience in the story's atmosphere.

• Use concise and impactful dialogue: Since you have limited time, make every word count. Use concise and impactful dialogue to convey emotions and essential information.

• Create a clear beginning, middle, and end: Follow a basic three-act structure with a clear setup, conflict, and resolution.

• Build tension and suspense: Use pacing, visual elements, and music (if applicable) to build tension and suspense, keeping the audience engaged until the end.

• Utilize visual storytelling: In a short screenplay, visual storytelling is vital. Show rather than tell whenever possible to make the story more engaging.

• End with a twist or surprise: Consider ending with a twist or surprise that leaves a lasting impact on the audience.

Example of a 1-minute screenplay:

Title: "The Lost Key"

INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY

JAMES (13, curious and determined) searches frantically for something.

JAMES (whispers) Where is it?

He spots a small BOX on the shelf.

JAMES (CONT'D) (excited) There it is!

Suddenly, the BOX slips from the shelf, falling behind the COUCH.

JAMES (CONT'D) (panicking) No, no, no!

He tries to reach it but can't.

EXT. BACKYARD - DAY

JAMES dashes outside, picks up a STICK, and rushes back inside.

INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY

With the stick, he fishes out the BOX from behind the couch.

JAMES (CONT'D) (victorious) Yes!

He opens the BOX to reveal a KEY.

INT. FRONT DOOR - DAY

JAMES unlocks the front door, but his little SISTER (6) blocks his way.

SISTER (teary-eyed) Don't leave, James!

JAMES (smiling) I'm just going next door, I promise.

He ruffles her hair, leaves, and the door closes.

EXT. FRONT DOOR - DAY

James hesitates for a moment, then turns back, locks the door, and puts the KEY in his pocket.

FADE OUT.

In this example, we establish a relatable character (James), a clear goal (finding the key), and a twist at the end, creating an engaging 1-minute screenplay that captures the audience's attention.