The Downtown Festival: Screenwriting and Other Considerations: A Master Class with Paul Schrader

A NOTE FROM PAUL:
This is not an overview of screenwriting, this is my method. Even if what I’m saying doesn’t work for 75% of you, it still has value, because it works for me.

ARTIST BIO:
Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Paul Schrader grew up with Calvinist parents and graduated from Calvin College. He received an MA in film studies from the UCLA Film School and was a film critic before turning to screenwriting. Schrader started directing in 1978 and has made over 20 films since.

ABOUT THE DOWNTOWN FESTIVAL:
The Downtown Festival is a celebration of emerging and established independent artists across film, music, art, and culture in New York City. The festival’s film program runs October 10–18, with premieres & anniversary screenings at Roxy Cinema, and additional events, including live music, artist talks, and special programs, taking place at venues across Lower Manhattan. Founded by filmmaker Rebekah Sherman-Myntti, The Downtown Festival is an artists-for-artists platform, dedicated to independence, discovery, and genuine cultural exchange.