Peter Houlahan, award-winning author of Norco ’80, breaks down how to transform raw facts into a relentless true crime thriller. Drawing from real 911 calls, court records, and interviews, this master class shows how to impose structure on chaos and build escalating tension without sacrificing accuracy. Attendees gain practical insight into shaping real events into a gripping narrative that reads like a novel.
Why Story Is the Only Thing That Matters
This session focuses on the core elements that make a screenplay work, including character arcs, story progression, structure, and emotional rhythm. It reinforces a central truth of filmmaking: strong stories are the foundation of every successful film.




