Dave, a renowned screenwriting professor, held esteemed positions at York University during the 1990s. His weekly classes were a masterclass in storytelling, where he delved into the intricacies of narrative structure, dissecting the essential elements of a compelling screenplay. He began by exploring the concept of the hook, that tantalizing opening that grabs the audience's attention, before delving into the significance of plot points one and two, and the pivotal role of conflict in shaping the story's trajectory. The discussion would then shift to the realm of character development, where he would emphasize the importance of understanding each character's unique needs and motivations. This foundational knowledge would serve as the springboard for the viewing of a carefully selected film, chosen to illustrate the theoretical concepts in practice. Following the screening, Dave would issue a writing assignment, designed to challenge his students and push them to hone their craft. A demanding educator, he expected nothing but excellence from his students, and his approach was characterized by a delicate balance of constructive praise for outstanding work and unflinching honesty when their writing fell short of his high standards.
