Based On A True Story: Writing Reality To Get Produced
Online with access for one year.
We can all see the trend.
Producers and broadcasters call it IP. And they want existing and proven content. “Give me an audience that’s already wants the story, and that’s a greenlight,” we are told over and over.
They want stories that are already out there, already have a following, already have a defined audience from which to build. They don’t need to guess that it will work, they know it will because it already has.
The Biopic or True Story is a HOT property. And one that so often goes wrong as the writer can too easily slide away from compelling and cracking story, into portraiture that is no longer engaging.
So long as character is KING and a compelling story is QUEEN, the biopic remains a much easier sell than an entirely unknown story.
Right. Exactly how do we mine ‘the truth’ to tell a ripping yarn without falling into overly sincere story traps that often lead to lacklustre films?
Writing true stories and biopics is a different beast from creating a story from scratch. It requires a deft ability to clarify and craft, to interrogate everything yet shine the story spotlight like a laser on what it compelling, what REALLY matters storywise.
When we see “Based On A True Story” in a film or show, we often become more invested emotionally, and the “Wow!” comes from a deeper place because it resonates more deeply. We connect more profoundly. It feels more… well more true.
‘I love Bob’s style and method of presentation. He interacts with his participants and makes it comfortable for them to contribute or ask questions. I’ve seen him in action quite a few times and he is someone I know can rely on when I need a bit of inspiration or motivation. He’s also very knowledgeable about the industry and generous in sharing what he knows. The clips chosen are all perfect for the point they need to get across and many have inspired me to watch or rewatch the full film.’
Eva Adams // writer, dreamer and film maker
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In this day-long course, join Bob Schultz as we:
- Examine how to balance our obligations to “truth” versus “facts.”
- Analyze the strategies and techniques writers use to elevate the audience experience in the biopic.
- Interrogate the value of ANYBODY’S true story, and how to make the common person the hero of their own story.
- Identify the biopic traps and how to avoid them.
You will leave with a clear understanding of what and why your true story is compelling, and importantly, what you can and SHOULD leave out. It’s not just about identifying a hero and telling their story – but rather, it’s about raising anybody into the hero of their own story. And that may just include yourself too.
Recent Feedback For This Workshop
‘It was terrific, with interesting and relevant content and practical examples. Bob kept encouraging us to find ‘our’ take on a story that we feel needs to be told. An inspiring day with practical application.’
Bella St John // Writer
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‘‘Bob was inspiring, honest and fun. The clips helped to explain in practice the points he was making. The day was well planned and he managed to cram in a lot of useful information. And yes, Bob is awesome, charming, talented, etc. etc! Really enjoyed it – Keep ’em coming.’’
Heather Dunmore // Writer
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‘I wasn’t able to attend on the day so have taken the course once, and I intend to go through it again asap as I have a ‘based on a true story’ screenplay to work on. The course covers a lot and is very effective on saying how we should research but then know that we should have a ‘take’ on the story.’
Les Grice // Writer
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This class is run by screenwriter Bob Schultz. For more than 20 years, Bob has been training screenwriters , helping thousands of writers clarify their stories, reorganise their ideas and build confidence to bring the very best version of any writer, to the opportunities they create.
