Nugget 1

Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris - Directors: Little Miss Sunshine, Ruby sparks

"Working with Joan Scheckel was the single most valuable thing we did to prepare for making Little Miss Sunshine. She gave us a set of tools that made the daunting task of directing a feature very accessible (even enjoyable!) She has a unique ability to inspire each of the directors she works with to build on their strengths, and correct bad habits. Her candid approach whether in private sessions or workshops, wastes no time and gets right to the heart of the matter and produces real results."

WHAT IS IT?

Unearth the "Meaning Motor" of your story!
For the first time ever, Joan Scheckel, Consulting Producer on Transparent and creator of The Technique™, offers the same in-depth work that has previously only been available in private sessions! Now you can unpack the concept of Nugget (AKA theme)! Understanding Nugget is key to The Technique™.  Use it to create meaningful structures for your narrative, doc, podcast, brand and more. 
In this one profound Lab, you will learn how to:
 
  • Identify the "Nugget" (theme) of the story
  • Create a coherent "motor" for the movie
  • Define the direction for the rewrite

 Learn what it takes to create the heart of a Hit! 

WHAT DOES IT COVER?

Day 1: INVESTIGATE

The first evening takes you deep into the core of your story. Guided timed writing exercises from The Technique™ allow you to:
 
  • Investigate the issues and feelings central to your theme
  • Find the "hot coals" embedded in your timed writings
  • Understand how to use "hot coals" to create the narrative from your inner life

Day 2: EMBODY 

The second reveals how to take meaning out of the cerebral and into the visceral!  Learn how to:
 
  • Hone your timed writing into one key essence
  • Articulate your story "Nugget" in felt, actionable terms 
  • Put your "Nugget" on its feet to discern how a theme becomes truly playable

Day 3:  CONNECT

Day 3 explores the vital connection between action, feeling and meaning.

  • Explore how the "Nugget" has been used in hits like "Transparent", "Little Miss Sunshine" and "Beginners"
  • Apply the concepts to your own work.
  • Embody the actions that earn dramatic Truth. 
     

NUGGET 2

After the incredible work in NUGGET 1 we're excited to announce NUGGET 2! In this 2 Day alumni only follow-up pod you'll dive even deeper into stating, clarifying, and ultimately learning how to use your Nugget to create a meaningful structure for your narrative or documentary.
 

WHO GOES?

NUGGET is designed for Film, Episodic, Commercial and all content creators. It may be attended individually by the Writer, Director or Producer...or by the entire Film Team. ACTION is a required prerequisite for this lab.

  • Directors
  • Writers
  • Actors
  • Producers
  • Executives
  • Financiers
  • Production
  • Designers
  • Cinematographers
  • Editors

Please see See Films, Community and Quotes for Artists Joan has worked with and their thoughts.

WHEN / WHERE?

NEW* ONLINE SELF GUIDED

Anytime Self-Guided Online via Thinkific!  For the first time ever, this course can be taken online at your own pace, for details check out the SELF-GUIDED!