Step into the future with our AI-Powered Storytelling cohort: a place where Hollywood-inspired narrative techniques meet cutting-edge AI technology. Covering six weeks and over 20+ hour of instruction, this intensive, hands-on workshop will transform you into a storytelling innovator, equipped with the tools and knowledge to leverage AI and Subtxt with Muse for unparalleled narrative creativity.
Drawing from my extensive experience with Disney, DreamWorks, Netflix, and contributing to Canada's 2023 Oscars selection, I bring a unique blend of narrative expertise and AI proficiency (I also developed the app we will be using in class!). This isn't just about learning story structure—it's about mastering the art of integrating AI to enhance and enrich your narrative vision.
What Makes This Program Special?
Practical, Hands-On Learning: Dive into practical workshops that show you exactly how to use AI to craft compelling stories. We believe in showing, not just telling, so you'll get to see firsthand the transformative power of AI in storytelling.
Expert Guidance: With my background in professional storytelling and as the sole developer of the Subtxt app, you're getting insider knowledge and tools designed to take your narrative skills to the next level.
Enrollment includes an entire year of Subtxt Pro FREE! ($450 value)
Comprehensive Approach: Learn how to blend a solid narrative framework with the predictive power of AI. Whether you're working on short stories or complex novels, you'll discover how to ensure every plot development and character arc aligns seamlessly with your story's core message.
Since 2017, Subtxt has been helping thousands of storytellers worldwide. Now, it's your turn to benefit from this revolutionary approach.
Join over 160+ students who have already unlocked the secrets of AI-assisted storytelling. In just six weeks, you'll gain the skills to craft stories that resonate, captivate, and leave a lasting impact on your audience. Whether you're a screenwriter, novelist, or copywriter, this course is designed to elevate your storytelling from ordinary to extraordinary. 🚀
👉 Enroll in the AI-Powered Storytelling Cohort
We see conflict from four different perspectives (I, You, We, and They). Why not use those to define the structure of your stories? Shakespeare did, and his stories are still being told today. Wouldn't you like to have the same reach?
Get hands-on with plot structure, conflict, and resolution--even if you're writing a short story. Shift gears to develop multidimensional characters. By blending both, you'll create a balanced, compelling narrative that is both "character-driven" and "plot-driven".
Learn to intertwine compelling and emotional character arcs with key elements that tie plot to character. The result is a structurally sound, emotionally rich narrative that keeps your audience hooked from start to finish.
Master a unique narrative structure known as the Storyform to build a robust and lasting story. With your newfound knowledge of over 75 key thematic aspects, you'll draft a meaningful and rich story that makes your audience a part of the narrative.
In the Storymind section, we delve into the concept of a narrative as a model of a single human mind trying to resolve a problem. This perspective allows us to understand the story's structure and dynamics in a more profound and personal way. We explore how the different aspects of a story represent different facets of the human psyche and how they interact to create a cohesive narrative.
The Complete Story section focuses on the four essential throughlines of a narrative: Objective Story (OS), Main Character (MC), Obstacle Character (OC), and Relationship Story (RS). We discuss how these throughlines interweave to form a complete story and how they can be developed to create a compelling narrative. This section lays the foundation for understanding the holistic nature of storytelling.
In the Plot section, we delve into the mechanics of plot development. We explore how to structure the events and sequences in your story to create a satisfying narrative arc. This includes understanding the role of conflict, tension, and resolution in driving the plot forward. We also discuss the importance of pacing and timing in maintaining reader interest and engagement.
The Players section focuses on character development. We discuss how to create complex, multidimensional characters that resonate with readers. This includes understanding the roles and functions of different types of characters, such as protagonists, antagonists, and supporting characters. We also explore how to use character arcs to drive character growth and transformation.
In the Character Arcs section, we go deeper into the concept of character transformation. We discuss how to craft compelling character arcs that reflect the themes and messages of your story. This includes understanding the different types of character arcs and how they can be used to create emotional depth and complexity in your narrative.
The Pivotal Elements section focuses on the key elements that drive a story forward. We discuss how to identify and develop these elements to create a compelling and engaging narrative. This includes understanding the role of plot points, turning points, and climaxes in shaping the trajectory of your story.
In the Mental Sex section, we explore the concept of narrative perspective. We discuss how the mental sex of a story (whether it is male or female) influences the way the story is perceived and interpreted by the reader. This includes understanding how to use mental sex to create a unique and distinctive narrative voice.
The Storyform section dives into the underlying structure of a story. We discuss how to use the Storyform to create a solid narrative framework that supports and enhances your storytelling. This includes understanding the role of story points, story drivers, and story transits in shaping the narrative arc.
In the OS Transits and Story Drivers section, we focus on the Objective Story Throughline. We discuss how to use transits and story drivers to create a compelling plot that engages the reader. This includes understanding how to structure and sequence events to create tension, conflict, and resolution.
The MC Transits, Progressions and Events section focuses on the Main Character Throughline. We discuss how to use Transits, Progressions, and Events to drive character development and transformation. This includes understanding how to use these elements to create a compelling character arc that resonates with readers.
In the OC, RS Transits and Plotting section, we delve into the Obstacle Character and Relationship Story Throughlines. We discuss how to use the subjective Transits to create meaning and fulfilling growth. This includes understanding how to use these elements to create emotional depth and complexity in your narrative.
In The Mind of a Story section, we return to the concept of the Storymind. We discuss how to use this perspective to create a cohesive and engaging narrative. This includes understanding how to balance the different aspects of the Storymind to create a story that resonates with readers on a deep, emotional level.
🎩 Many Hats, One Mission: Animator, storyboard artist, director, story consultant—you name it, I've done it.
🛠️ AI App Builder: solo-developed Subtxt from the ground-up to serve storytellers across the 🌎
🎬 Notable Projects:
🌟 Impact & Influence:
🕰️ 25+ Years in Animation: Worked on 15+ films for Disney and Dreamworks, including Tarzan, Shrek 2, and How to Train Your Dragon.
📝 Learned from Legends: Written & storyboarded for Warner Bros.' Chuck Jones; directed for Sony Pictures Television and Dreamworks TV. World's leading expert on Dramatica (thanks to the theory's co-creators 🙏).
✨ My Goal: Teach you to nail the story early—saving you time and drafts.
🚀 Ready to Write? Let's dive into your first draft, done right, the first time around!
Jim has taught over 160+ students on Maven (not to mention the countless hundreds at CalArts and thousands over the years).
Payment plans are available if needed.
The following dates are for Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12pm Pacific. After enrollment, we will contact you in regard to which cohort you want to take.
Talk to you soon!
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