This unlikely pairing is a portal. In this one-day seminar, we’ll explore two magical films, “Barbie” (2023) and “The NeverEnding Story” (1984)—one an instant classic, one a nostalgia-drunk classic, but both brilliant examples of “alternative storytelling” and fearless play on the page. Both films are considered overtly commercial (and were commercial hits), and both are grounded in child’s play, but both films gift profound lessons to writers/storytellers of all modes and genres—game-changing, mind-blowing teachings on no less than the nature of power exchange and capital “c” Creativity itself. As geographical cousins, the landscapes of Barbieland and Fantasia offer struggle, self-discovery, and full-on revolution (middle fingers raised high!). Specifically, we’ll explore how these two groundbreaking films exalt boundless imagination (read: sheer delight), and exemplify the power of embodiment in screenwriting (read: the gateway to true healing).
Together, we’ll map the “Barbie” script’s most clever hat trick: turning an icon of misogyny and repression into an icon of feminist glory. If you found “Barbie” utterly-to-moderately delightful and are interested in mayyybe dipping your own toe in screenwriting (OR, you’re already waist-deep in scene work), this is your seminar. If you don’t write scripts, but LOVED the film: ditto. If you found it paradoxical or conflicting: ditto!
And if you scream in delight every time you see a meme with Falkor’s ears flapping in flight, this is also your seminar! We’ll investigate how the beloved 80s hit “The NeverEnding Story” is a beautiful parable for the artist’s promise (/potential failure), as well as a trial on the nature of imagination itself.
NO screenwriting experience necessary! Just bring your cinephile joy and curiosity.