How to read analyze and prepare a screenplay for the rehearsal of actors and direction of the crew. How to shift from literary thinking to dramatic thinking. How events dictate creative choices. (It is recommended that screenwriters who want to direct attend all six of Jim's classes as Jim has been known to spontaneously integrate material from one session into another.)

An interview with David Milch, acclaimed and multiple-Emmy-winning television writer and executive producer.

This special event has become a staple of the EXPO, as every year Michael Hauge offers his unique, in-depth analysis of a critically acclaimed and commercially successful screenplay. At the conclusion of a week filled with writers and lecturers revealing their secrets for Hollywood success, this 2-hour workshop will illustrate the essential principles of screenwriting with a detailed analysis of the script for the highest grossing film of all time, Avatar. While this film is lauded for it’s high production values and dazzling, 3-D special effects, Michael will argue that its record-breaking box office returns could not have been achieved without James Cameron’s terrific screenplay. He will reveal how the compelling story concept, the clearly defined outer motivations, the hero’s character arc, the structure of the plot, the vividly drawn primary characters, the compelling love story and the universal theme were all essential to the film’s huge success. Please see the movie prior to attending the lecture.