Testimonials

What Students Say

“I would absolutely take this course again. It combines screenwriting theory with a refreshingly realistic approach to getting your scripts on the page, delivered in a friendly atmosphere that cultivates creativity. The whole approach is grounded in the reality of what it's actually like to work on a script, with plenty of examples, templates, and tables to help steer you. 10 out of 10!”

Sarah Tolle, Editor, Black & White Zebra Industries

Paul Donnett

is a writer, producer, director, and graphic novelist, who has worked as a studio reader, film festival judge, guest panelist, and post-secondary educational director. He taught writing and film production at Vancouver Film School, Langara College, and SchoolCreative Institute of the Arts and served as VP of Academics at Vancouver Acting School before founding WriterJump.

“The writing program was something I looked forward to attending every week. There was an infectious energy that made learning about storytelling and analyzing screenplays fun. Paul created a great group environment where it was easy for everyone to discuss and share ideas.”

Nikita Zhang, Burnaby North Secondary/ACE-IT grad

Film studies, Ryerson University

“Paul has become a great mentor, teacher and friend. His advice and knowledge of screenwriting have given me great insight on how to improve my own work. I haven’t yet met a teacher so engaged in his student’s filmmaking dreams and goals as Paul has been. His commitment to his students and their work is unmatched. I highly recommend his classes if you want an advanced study of screenwriting and someone to help you take your work to new heights.”

Kamen Staykov, Moscrop Secondary/ACE-IT grad

Film studies, Capilano University

“Paul's blend of professionalism, clarity, humour, obvious knowledge of the subject matter and sincere interest in his students made the course a highlight in my journey as a writer. I came away with the tools to write my first professional screenplay.”

Satya Redekop, quarter finalist,

LA International Screenplay Awards

What Teachers Say

“Paul Donnett is a man of principle and integrity and he loves working with and supporting people in their learning and growth as a writer. I have seen Paul work with a range of different young writers. He has a way of engaging with young people from where they are and giving feedback that is useful yet continues to inspire them to continue and delve deeper into their work.

“His wealth of life experiences give him a unique perspective as a writer and a teacher. He is an excellent speaker and delivers material in a clear and effective way with content always supported by relevant and clear examples that all students can relate to and learn from.

“As a DMA teacher I have used many of his story development principles to help student write their personal learning journals which are really their learning stories. Everything starts with a good story idea. Paul can take you from the nucleus of a good story and step you through the many ways to develop it into a powerful and meaningful story that could be used for a film, game or graphic novel, to name a few.

“Paul is just a good and kind person who knows his craft and how to deliver it to help others grow to be better storytellers. He loves what he does as is evident from the time when you first meet him!”

Murray Bulger, Teacher

Argyle Secondary DMA (North Vancouver)

“My time in Paul's class was more fulfilling than I could have anticipated. I really enjoyed being there, because Paul creates such a fun classroom experience, and is, plain and simply, just a great human being. He's not only a human library of writing intelligence, but also a walking rolodex of film and television knowledge. I certainly feel like a more capable writer for having been there. Ten out of ten, would highly recommend."

Jeff Evans Todd, actor, writer, director

(Bates Motel, Supernatural, Haters Back Off)

"Being in my 50s and never having written prior to this class, I wasn’t sure I would be able to keep up. But with Paul's positive and detailed teaching style, I was able to formulate an idea and finish a complete draft screenplay by the end of the sessions. I appreciated his openness to everyone’s individuality and his encouragement to write in the style that most resonated with them, be it slapstick comedy, sci-fi, animation, horror, or intense drama. I thoroughly enjoyed this class and highly recommend it to anyone, regardless of age, experience or knowledge!

Monica Schimmer, writer

“To anybody looking for top tier film writing education: Paul has been an enormous help with the evolution of my script which will soon be going into production!”

Greg Melanson, writer-producer, director,

Both Sides of the Gun

CEO, Storylance

"Taking the writing program was a supremely enjoyable and eye-opening experience. It offers a wealth of information and helps foster a fun, informative and safe learning environment. I could share my work with confidence and found Paul's feedback insightful, on the mark, and helpful in making my work stronger.”

Rachelle Lachland, writer, comedian

“Paul Donnett = engagement! He combines creativity, professionalism, industry-readiness, passion and a down to earth approach to teaching story development, which my students absolutely love. His lessons, direction, and feedback have proven crucial for my students to bring their stories to life. Students love everything Paul brings to the table!”

Jamie Leduc, Teacher, Sisler High, SislerCreate,

The Orange Tree Project (Winnipeg)

Paul Donnett has become an indispensable part of our script writing and filmmaking process. His knowledge and expert advice has helped my students make enormous advances in their skills and practice in all stages of production. He has helped many students enter the post-secondary and professional world of film.

Phil Byrne, Teacher, Burnaby North Secondary

ACE-IT Program, Burnaby School District

"Learning how to write professionally was incredibly fun, engaging and helpful for me! Paul's approach makes you feel comfortable to share all your ideas without fear of judgement. I brought many ideas to the table that he was able to fine tune, helping to make them more interesting by adding depth and originality. I'm so glad I was able to find this program and improve my screenwriting skills in a positive and fun environment. I've recommended it to friends and will continue to do so for anyone looking to improve their writing and storytelling skills.”

Ruth-Ann Reich, writer

“Paul is an excellent communicator and passionate teacher. His screenwriting class was essential to help me articulate my stories and translate them into a formula that works for film. The way he helps you break down you story and develop your characters helps him stand apart from other teachers I've had.“

Angela Convery, Animator

“Paul’s lectures are informative and enjoyable while providing writers the tools required to develop theme, character, and plot as well as the structure and formatting needed to create a professional script. Taking Paul’s class was one of the best decisions I’ve made regarding my writing career and any writer serious about their craft should contact Paul immediately.”

Michael Feeney, screenwriter, Screencraft semifinalist

“Paul's screenwriting class helped me to thoroughly understand the fundamentals and process of developing a screenplay. I learned lessons that I will use for years to come.”

Harnoor Gill, filmmaker

“Paul taught me how to appreciate films, not just as an audience member and a fan, but from the keen-eyed perspective of a writer. His classes are a joyful blend of highly informative discussions on structure and character as well as practical advice on the craft, both of which helped rekindle my love for cinema and my passion for storytelling.”

Ramin Shabestari, screenwriter

“Paul is an incredibly insightful teacher. From the logistics of storytelling, to the heart of the characters he creates and the individuals he teaches, I owe a tremendous growth in my writing to him. Not only do I feel better equipped to navigate the daunting process of storytelling, but his lessons remain with me through all peaks and valleys. It’s not very often you get to be educated by someone curious, empathetic, erudite, and funny. I am endlessly grateful to his guidance. If you have the opportunity, I recommend you take it!”

Madeline Setzer, actor, writer