Let’s Talk Screenwriting!
#6 Writing against gender stereotypes
3 May 2021, 11.00-12.00 CET, online

Research has shown that films and television programs rely heavily on gender stereotypes. While  social types are necessary to tell a story in an efficient way, they also shape cultural values and, turned into stereotypes, consolidate gender hierarchies. How to avoid using gender stereotypes when writing for mainstream media? Which role, if any, does the gender identity of the writer(s) play? And how could change be set in motion?

In this session Marissa Maternum (Utrecht University) and screenwriter/director Corien van der Zwaag and script editor Iris van Vliet talk about diversity in Dutch film and television production, reflect how an awareness of gender stereotypes affects their own screenwriting, and discuss the opportunities and challenges of developing stories that do not rely on stereotypes.

Discussants:
Marissa Maternum (Utrecht University)
Corien van der Zwaag (screenwriter/director)
Iris van Vliet (script editor)

Chair: Willemien Sanders (Utrecht University)

if you are interested in attending, please register before 30 April by sending an e-mail to: t.m.sleebos@uu.nl