Aspiring filmmakers at the 2024 Pueblo Film Festival gained valuable insights into storytelling and pitching during a dynamic workshop led by Shahrzad Sherry Dadgar (she/her).

Dadgar, a seasoned film industry professional, emphasized the core elements of a compelling story: someone wants something, but obstacles stand in their way. Using real-world examples, she explored the importance of theme, genre, and mood, encouraging participants to develop their own unique cinematic voice.

Hands-on activities allowed attendees to craft loglines, analyze conflicts, and envision how they would bring their stories to life as directors. Dadgar stressed the significance of a strong first draft and the ongoing process of rewriting and refinement.

“This approach helped the participants realize that story structure is everything. It's the skeleton of your film," remarked Gregory Howell of the Pueblo Film Commission.

The workshop concluded with a focus on the art of the pitch. Participants learned how to distill their project's essence, tailoring their message to capture interest and secure support.

For more information contact:

Shahrzdad Dadgar, M.F.A. | Assistant Professor & Student Media Advisor | Department of Media & Entertainment | Colorado State University Pueblo | s.dadgar@csupueblo.edu