MasterClass

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  • MasterClass
  • Documentary

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15
15x1
Introduction
Episode overview
David outlines what he'll cover in this class, and the best mindset you can have to learn how to write great drama.
15x2
Purpose of Drama
Episode overview
Trying to understand drama? Look no further than everyday life. David teaches you how to recognize drama at its best—when it seeks to simply entertain, not teach.
15x3
Purpose of Drama (Cont'd)
Episode overview
Learn how drama functions as a form of myth, the ways in which it enlightens the complexities of humanity, and how it provides us with an outlet for expressing the issues that preoccupy us.
15x4
Dramatic Rules
Episode overview
As a dramatist, your job is to tell a story. David teaches you how to keep your story simple by using Aristotle's Poetics as a guide. Learn how to keep your hero's journey at the heart of your narrative.
15x5
Dramatic Rules (Cont'd)
Episode overview
Start at the beginning of your story and don't stop until you reach the end. Throw away anything that isn't plot. David teaches you what to cut from your script and how to master the rules of writing.
15x6
Story Ideas
Episode overview
David teaches you how to harness your fantasies and life experiences for drama. Look for drama in places where you'd least expect it and discover the inspiration behind several of his plays.
15x7
Character
Episode overview
David teaches you what character really is—action. Learn how to create objectives for your characters and avoid the erroneous techniques commonly taught.
15x8
Plot
Episode overview
Plot is paramount. Become familiar with the essential ingredients of a plot like the precipitating event and the second-act problem. Learn how to find the plot hiding behind your scenes.
15x9
Structuring the Plot
Episode overview
David shares with you the methods he uses to structure a plot and teaches you how to connect plot points.
15x10
Structuring the Plot (Cont'd)
Episode overview
Learn the ins and outs of the structure of a three-act play and how to achieve cohesion across acts.
15x11
Case Study: Structuring the Plot - American Buffalo
Episode overview
David discusses the history of American Buffalo and delves into its plot, teaching you the symbolism of the eponymous coin and how the narrative speaks to viewers on a deeply human level.
15x12
Case Study: Structuring the Plot - Glengarry Glen Ross
Episode overview
David shares the inspiration behind Glengarry Glen Ross and discusses the differences between drama and tragedy.
15x13
Dialogue
Episode overview
Learn how David developed his style for writing dialogue, famously known as "Mamet-speak," and where to draw inspiration when trying to write great dialogue.
15x14
Dialogue (Cont'd)
Episode overview
David talks about what informs and motivates dialogue, and how to achieve a musicality and rhythm in your character's speech pattern.
15x15
Narration & Exposition
Episode overview
Writing drama is not the same as conveying information. A dramatist's job is to entertain, not bore, the audience. Learn how to recognize unnecessary narration and exposition and how to let the audience help you cut it out.
15x16
Scenes
Episode overview
Every scene must contain three things. Learn what those are and how to recognize and remove scenes that are unnecessary to your script.
15x17
Writing Process
Episode overview
David discusses how he begins writing, the environment in which he likes to write, how he deals with writer's block, and how he looks to Hemingway for inspiration on how to begin writing.
15x18
Writing Process (Cont'd)
Episode overview
David tells us that there isn't a fairy dust that will fix your script and explains the simple difference between him and an artist who spends his or her days simply dreaming about becoming a writer.
15x19
The Audience
Episode overview
Learn how David reveres his audiences, what they are looking for when they come to the theatre, and how to learn from them.
15x20
Lies & Truth
Episode overview
Your responsibility as a writer: don't lie. David discusses how the audience comes to the theatre to hear the truth and how drama helps us search for the truth. He gives examples of conveying the truth from two of his most revered plays.
15x21
Lies & Truth (Cont'd)
Episode overview
David continues talking about the truth in two of his most controversial works: Oleanna and Race.
15x22
Actors
Episode overview
Learn from David, in the role of the theatre director, on how he views what makes a great actor and how to cast the right ones for your play.
15x23
Actors (Cont'd)
Episode overview
David tells us what he believes great actors should and shouldn't do.
15x24
Life of a Dramatist
Episode overview
The life of a dramatist is fraught with uncertainty, but dedication and passion towards your craft can lead you beyond consciousness.
15x25
Life of a Dramatist (Cont'd)
Episode overview
David experiences the self-doubt common amongst writers. Learn how he overcomes it and the one thing you should avoid in order to forge a path towards becoming a writer.
15x26
Closing
Episode overview
David leaves you with parting words and an emotional story from one of his favorite science fiction novels.

Characters