Something Else! Writing Adaptations & Transmedia Stoytelling (Q3333)
15 credits, Level 6
Spring teaching
Many of the stories we love are adaptations. For example:
- TV adaptations of classic literature
- film adaptations of crime fiction
- blockbuster movie adaptations of video games.
Other adaptations move between the page and the theatre, including work by internationally acclaimed companies Complicite, Elevator Repair Service and Forced Entertainment. However, more adaptations don’t switch medium, but thrive on an earlier work, such as Dodie Bellamy’s adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Others might translate non-fiction documentary into narrative.
But how do you tell what will make a good adaptation? How can you see the wood for the trees, and, for example, see the essence of character and plot that will make for a great screenplay? Does style in one medium get in the way of seeing clearly, or can style be adapted too?
As well as practicing translating from one medium to another, you’ll explore transmedia theory. This theory addresses how we write as part of a larger idea with its own world-building, lore and beloved characters?
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.
We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
Courses
This module is offered on the following courses: