Only 4 Spots Remain! Interactive rewrite class on Zoom with a network-level story editor and development expert!

Learn how professionals actually fix scripts and respond to real-world notes

PLEASE NOTE: Although this exclusive Stage 32 class is no longer live and the teacher is not available on email, we highly encourage you to do any assignments to get the most out of the educational experience.

Rewriting is where your script becomes professional! You can have a great idea, memorable moments, and characters you love, but if the story isn’t landing on the page, it won’t land with readers, producers, or execs. Most scripts stall not because the concept is weak, but because the execution isn’t fully realized. That’s why learning how to rewrite strategically, not just tweak, is one of the most important skills you can develop as a screenwriter. In this exclusive Stage 32 class, you’ll walk away with the tools, insight, and confidence to turn any draft into a script that captivates readers and executives alike!

Even strong scripts can benefit from a fresh, focused rewrite. Many writers adjust dialogue, shuffle scenes, or trim pages, but without a clear process, it can be hard to fully elevate the story. This class helps you move beyond surface changes into purposeful rewrites that sharpen character, elevate dialogue, clarify story, and tighten structure while keeping your unique voice and emotional core intact. You’ll learn how to break down your A, B, and C storylines, uncover what your scenes are really doing, and apply a step-by-step rewrite process that brings clarity and power to your script.

You’ll be guided by AZ Yeamen, a working writer and story editor who has built a career on making scripts work. AZ has sold nearly every script she’s written and is a go-to for revisions, story doctoring, and pitch development for networks and platforms like Netflix, TVOne, Aspire TV, UMC, Bounce TV, and independent production companies. Most recently, she served as a Story Editor on Covenant for AMC’s ALLBLK. She’s also deeply committed to developing new voices, with students who have written, rewritten, and sold projects, and as the founder of Bridge 17 and the CCA Awards, she actively supports screenwriters in getting their ideas heard.

Across four sessions, you’ll focus on the core building blocks of effective rewriting: building compelling characters who truly drive the story, crafting natural dialogue rooted in voice and subtext, strengthening structure and scene function, and cutting pages the right way so your script becomes tight, not thin. You’ll walk away with practical tools, worksheets, and a repeatable process you can use on every script you write, leveling up your rewriting skills for the long term.

PLUS! You will receive the following handouts to help you:

• Character Map Worksheet
• Dialogue Rewrite Checklist
• Subtext Conversion Examples
• Scene Purpose & Story Engine Map
• Rewrite Workbook (Orphans, Action Lines, Scene Compression Guide)

Praise from AZ's previous Stage 32 Courses:

"AZ is truly the best teacher I've ever had. She's not just a talented writer, but a great teacher who really cares about her students. I can't recommend her certification course enough!" - Laura L.

"Not only does AZ know her stuff, but she articulates it very well. I highly recommend working with her no matter what stage your project is at. She'll work with you to take it from good to great." - Alyssa B.

"First and foremost, AZ is AMAZING! The information provided, the examples, the illustrations, the assignments were all geared towards equipping us to become great scriptwriters. I MUST take the course again. Nothing but applause for AZ and her style of teaching." - Chris S

Session #1: Characters - “Who Is Driving the Story?”

Strong rewrites begin with character. If the protagonist’s wants, flaws, and choices aren’t clear, no amount of dialogue or plot restructuring will fix the script. This session focuses on rebuilding character from the inside out so every scene has purpose and propulsion.

Topics Covered:

• Identifying the true protagonist (and hidden protagonists) *Traits*
• Clarifying character want vs. need
• Tracking character agency and decision-making
• Strengthening antagonistic forces (people, systems, or self)
• Ensuring each major character earns their page space
• Q and A with AZ

Assignment:
Audit your protagonist and antagonist: write a one-page character diagnosis identifying what they want, what stands in their way, and how their choices drive the plot.

Handout:

• Character Map Worksheet
  
  

Session #2: Dialogue - “Is This the Only Way This Could Be Said?”

Dialogue should reveal character, advance story, and create tension, not explain what we already know. This session helps writers identify weak dialogue patterns and replace them with sharper, more cinematic exchanges.

Topics Covered:

• Identifying on-the-nose and expositional dialogue - Using metaphors.
• Subtext vs. information delivery
• Voice consistency across characters
• Using silence, action, and interruption
• The Art of Subtraction
• Q and A with AZ

Assignment (not checked):
Rewrite one dialogue-heavy scene, cutting at least 20% of the dialogue while increasing tension or clarity.

Handout:

• Dialogue Rewrite Checklist
• Subtext Conversion Examples
  
  

Session #3: Story -  “What Is This Scene Actually Doing?”

In this session, writers zoom out to examine structure, momentum, and repetition. The goal is to ensure that every scene earns its place and that the story escalates rather than circles itself.

Topics Covered:

• Diagnosing story drag vs. story depth
• Scene function: setup, escalation, reversal, payoff
• Identifying redundant beats and false stakes
• Strengthening act turns and midpoint shifts
• Clarifying the series or feature engine
• Q and A with AZ

Assignment (not checked):
Complete a scene-function map for your script, labeling what each scene accomplishes and flagging any that repeat information or emotion.

Handout:

• Scene Purpose & Story Engine Map
  
  

Session #4: Cutting Pages -  “Tight, Not Thin”

Producers and executives want lean scripts, but cutting pages the wrong way can hollow out a story. This session focuses on how to cut effectively: trimming excess while protecting character, tone, and narrative clarity.

Topics Covered:

• Identifying orphan scenes and unnecessary transition
• Cutting overwritten action and scene descriptions
• Combining scenes without losing impact
• Visual storytelling vs. literary writing
• Industry expectations for page count and pacing
• Q and A with AZ

Assignment (not checked):
Cut 5–10 pages from your script using the techniques discussed, then write a short reflection on what was removed and why.

Handout:

• Rewrite Workbook (Orphans, Action Lines, Scene Compression Guide)

• Writers with a completed or nearly completed feature script who want to make it market-ready
• Writers stuck in rewrite limbo and unsure what to fix next
• Writers receiving notes from producers, contests, or peers but struggling to execute them
• Writers who want to strengthen character, dialogue, and structure in a focused, practical way
• Writers preparing scripts for submission, pitching, or development opportunities
• Writers who want a repeatable rewrite process they can use on every future project
• Emerging writers ready to level up from hobbyist to professional-level craft
• Experienced writers looking to sharpen their revision strategy and storytelling efficiency

Praise from AZ's previous Stage 32 Courses:

"AZ is truly the best teacher I've ever had. She's not just a talented writer, but a great teacher who really cares about her students. I can't recommend her certification course enough!" - Laura L.

"Not only does AZ know her stuff, but she articulates it very well. I highly recommend working with her no matter what stage your project is at. She'll work with you to take it from good to great." - Alyssa B.

"First and foremost, AZ is AMAZING! The information provided, the examples, the illustrations, the assignments were all geared towards equipping us to become great scriptwriters. I MUST take the course again. Nothing but applause for AZ and her style of teaching." - Chris S