How You Can Win Buyers Over In The First 10 Pages Of Your Script

4-PART INTENSIVE CLASS (OVER 8 HOURS OF EDUCATION)

Learn how to hook your reader in the first ten pages from a writer and executive who's worked with Netflix, Disney, and more.

Executives, representatives, and script readers typically know how they feel about a script after reading the first 10 pages. If a script doesn't grab a reader in the first 10 pages it risks being tossed aside for the next script on their pile.

Your mission is to pen an opening 10 pages that stand out with a dynamic protagonist, the world they exist in, the genre, and the tone. Getting these pages right isn't easy, but we've got you covered.

In this exclusive Stage 32 on-demand class, you’ll learn the know how to grab your reader in your opening pages from an industry veteran who has worked both as a successful writer and executive. Your script will be ready to hook the all-important industry readers from the very first page.

Whether you’re starting a new script or rewriting one you've previously completed, fitting everything into those opening pages is a skill unto itself. So, we've got a mentor who understands both the writers' struggles and executives' needs. Justine is the rare executive who has done both. 

Justine Wentzell-Cheng hosts this class using her strong storytelling skills and deep knowledge of the industry landscape to give you notes. She’ll highlight the crucial elements executives are on the hunt for while elevating the story and characters. She'll share actionable steps to nail these elements at the top for maximum effect.

Justine is a former acquisition and co-production executive turned writer and producer. She has read and developed countless scripts, many of which have landed at Netflix, Disney, and other major networks and streaming platforms. Today, she works as a writer and she currently has multiple scripts in development with broadcasters and production companies.

By the end of the class, you will know how to write a top-notch opening sequence for your script and you'll have the tools to consistently grab the reader's attention out of the gate in all of your work.

Praise for Justine's Stage 32 Education

“Immensely helpful for writers at any stage in their careers!" -- Samantha L.

"I can't thank Justine enough for the knowledge she provided on making a great opening sequence for my script. I hope that Justine comes back to teach another course with Stage 32 soon. 5 stars." -- Morgan M.

"I would take any class Justine taught." -- Tim M. 

Session 1: Overview

• Why the first 10 matter so much
• Who is your audience?
• What to include:
• Set up the world your main character(s) are living in.
• Effective introduction of main characters and their relationships
• Theme
• Tone, mood, style in both the dialogue and action
• Set up the main conflict.
• Ways to hook your audience in
• Edit/Proofread

Q&A with Justine

Homework will be assigned

Session 2: Prepping Your Script & Character Building

• Defining your audience(s) and knowing what they’re looking for
• Development Exec
• Viewer
• Establishing your opening scene with a hook
• Worldbuilding
• Emotional connection
• Intrigue
• Action
• Make them wonder, “What is happening?”
• Getting to know your characters and building them out before you start writing
• Share creative tools to help build a strong foundation for your story
• Discuss Homework

Q&A with Justine

Homework will be assigned

Session 3: Case Studies

• Building empathy
• Creating a Connection
• Leaving a strong impression
• Review homework
• Look at 4 case studies and break them down:
  • 1 one-hour script
  • 1 half-hour script
  • 2 feature scripts

Q&A with Justine

Homework will be assigned

Session 4: Writer’s Circle

• Review students’ first ten pages to access what is working and how to improve in a group critique session.

Q&A with Justine

Q: What is the format of a class?
A: Stage 32 Next Level Classes are typically 90-minute broadcasts that take place online using a designated software program from Stage 32.

Q: Do I have to be located in a specific location?
A: No, you can participate from the comfort of your own home using your personal computer! If you attend a live online webinar, you will be able to communicate directly with your instructor during the class.

Q: What are the system requirements?
A: You will need to meet the following system requirements in order to run the webinar software: Windows 7 or later Mac OS X 10.9 (Mavericks) or later.
If you have Windows XP, Windows Vista and Mac OS X 10.8 (Mountain Lion): The webinar software does not support these operating systems. If you are running one of those operating systems, please upgrade now in order to be able to view a live class. Upgrade your Windows computer / Upgrade your Mac computer

Q: What if I cannot attend the live class?
A: If you attend a live online class, you will be able to communicate directly with your instructor during the class. If you cannot attend a live class, you will have access to the entire recorded broadcast, including the Q&A. Plus, your instructor will be available via email throughout the lab.

Q: Will I have access to the lab afterward to rewatch?
A: Yes! After the purchase of the lab, you will have on-demand access to the video recording, which you can view for one month after the class is complete.