MY LIFE IN EPISODES: THE WEB SERIES FOR PERSONAL STORYTELLING
Ages 18-29
Summer 2021, Online
In this distance learning workshop student fellows will explore the creative possibilities of short-form web series, which have become an important component of the independent filmmaking scene. With an eye towards distribution on platforms like YouTube, creators like Issa Rae (The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl) and Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer (Broad City) have based series on personal experiences, and gone on to make a significant impact on mainstream television. Inspired by these and other artists, and drawing on their own lives, each student fellow will develop an idea for a scripted series, create a bible, and write an episode, all while embracing a “DIY aesthetic” that will make the realization of their vision achievable. Consideration of Don’t Shoot the Messenger, created by Deaf filmmaker Maleni Chaitoo and sign language interpreter Craig Fogel; Her Story, directed by transgender Navajo filmmaker Sydney Freeland; and English Teachers, created by Anthony Gilmore, a former English teacher in Japan and South Korea, will show fellows how their unique experiences, identities, and worldviews can be translated into engaging drama (and comedy!). Close attention will be given to characterization, story arc, conflict, and dialogue. They’ll also learn about web series opportunities such as Austin Film Festival’s annual Scripted Digital Series competition. Their work will be shared through a virtual exhibition and on the program website. Limited to 8 student fellows.
Alessandra Bautze is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University, where she majored in writing and in film and media studies. She also holds an M.F.A. in Screenwriting from The University of Texas at Austin. She believes in the power of language to connect communities.
Christian Lewis is currently a student at McDaniel College, studying cinema with a strong focus towards screenwriting. As of now he resides in Baltimore City, a place he hopes to incorporate into his stories.
