Horror Movie Screenplay Writing

Oct 8th - Oct 29th

Dive into the dark side of storytelling with our Horror Screenwriting Workshop, designed for writers who want to master the art of fear. Over the course of this program, students will learn how to build tension, craft unforgettable scares, and develop characters that audiences care about before terrifying them. The workshop explores the key elements of successful horror screenplays—atmosphere, pacing, suspense, and subtext—while also examining classic and modern horror films for inspiration.

Through guided exercises, participants will practice writing chilling scenes, creating effective setups and payoffs, and using visual language to build dread on the page. Students will also learn how to structure a feature-length horror script, develop original concepts that stand out in a crowded market, and tap into universal fears that resonate with audiences. By the end of the workshop, each participant will have a strong outline or sample scenes from their own horror screenplay, along with the tools to continue developing a complete, industry-ready script.

Perfect for horror fans, aspiring screenwriters, or any storyteller eager to learn how to make audiences scream, squirm, and keep the lights on at night.

  • Screenwriters who love horror and want to master the craft of writing scares.

  • Beginners eager to explore screenwriting through a thrilling and engaging genre.

  • Writers with a draft or concept who want to refine it into a stronger horror script.

  • Fans of horror films curious about how to turn their own nightmares into stories.

  • Filmmakers looking to create original, marketable horror projects for shorts or features.

Nick McCarthy is a writer and director known for his sharp, atmospheric approach to horror and thriller storytelling. McCarthy gained recognition with his feature debut The Pact (2012), a chilling supernatural tale that premiered at Sundance and showcased his talent for blending emotional depth with genre tension. He went on to write and direct At the Devil’s Door (2014), further cementing his reputation as a filmmaker drawn to unsettling themes and morally complex characters. Nick has worked as a screenwriter for several major studios, including credits on Paramount’s Body Cam (2020) and Lionsgate’s horror comedy The Blackening (2023), as well as the second season of Nickelodeon’s series Are You Afraid of the Dark?  

With a style that emphasizes mood, dread, and strong visual storytelling,McCarthy has become a distinctive voice in modern independent horror.

4.9 (2 reviews)

$ 349

Level
Beginner - Advanced
Duration
8 Hours
Lessons
4 Sessions
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