Breaking Down the Script: What Makes a Successful Elevated Horror Screenplay (with case studies from BARBARIAN & IMMACULATE)

Learn from Christina Pamies, screenwriter of the hit StudioCanal horror film BAGHEAD!

You’ll also receive a downloadable copy of the BARBARIAN screenplay!

The global hunger for horror is exploding, with streaming platforms and niche studios eagerly seeking fresh, spine-chilling stories that break new ground in the genre. Yet, alongside this demand, a flood of films fall flat, weighed down by overused tropes and tired clichés. You and your story have the power to break through, gripping audiences and leaving an unforgettable impact. In this exclusive Stage 32 webinar, you’ll unlock the essential techniques to transform your horror screenplay into something truly unforgettable. By analyzing films like BARBARIAN and IMMACULATE, you’ll learn how to master the balance between thought-provoking narratives and raw, visceral scares that deeply resonate with viewers and keep them coming back for more!

One of the biggest challenges you may face as a horror writer is the temptation to rely on familiar formulas. While these elements can feel safe and comforting, they often lead to predictable outcomes that drain your story of its power. Audiences want to be shocked and surprised, not lulled into a false sense of security. Many writers unknowingly fall into the traps of cliché storytelling, missing the chance to truly engage their viewers. In this webinar, you'll learn how to identify these pitfalls and develop fresh, compelling approaches to traditional horror themes, ensuring your audience stays hooked from beginning to end.

Your Stage 32 educator, Christina Pamies, a seasoned screenwriter with extensive expertise in the horror genre. Christina recently wrote the hit horror film BAGHEAD for StudioCanal, which has been celebrated as one of the top horror hits of the year—dubbed “the film that will make you want to cover your eyes!” Her new script NO GOOD DEED also made The Black List, highlighting her knack for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with both critics and audiences alike. With her wealth of experience and passion for storytelling, Christina is here to help you navigate the complexities of writing a standout horror screenplay.

In this information-packed webinar, you'll dive into the key elements that make up a successful elevated horror script. You’ll learn how to create a strong hook that grabs attention, develop socially relevant themes, and implement shocking twists that keep your audience on the edge of their seats. We’ll explore how to build complex characters and utilize familiar settings in innovative ways, all while maintaining high tension throughout your story. Get ready to elevate your horror storytelling and make an impact!

You’ll get a chance to ask Christina your questions during an exclusive Q&A session!

PLUS! You will receive:

• A downloadable copy of the BARBARIAN screenplay!

A note from your educator:

“I was so grateful to Stage32 for giving me a platform to share the tools I've learned about writing horror over the years. Everyone took care to make it a comfortable and positive experience for me. It's great to know that Stage32 takes the horror genre seriously, and that they offer such a wide variety of educational content for creatives eager to learn the tricks of the trade.”

-Christina Pamies, your Stage 32 educator, screenwriter of the hit StudioCanal horror film BAGHEAD