Writing for Film, TV and Novels. Taught by commissioned screenwriter and published author Matthew J Gunn.

Matthew has given me invaluable feedback and advice previously, having proof-read my novels and scripts. He has an uncanny instinct for what makes a script work and where it is possibly going wrong, having a firm understanding of plot structure and consistent characterisation. He has written me thoroughly detailed reports to help me with my further drafts, breaking down into sections such as plot structure, characters and final summary, which has given me lots of help in attempting a rewrite. He is widely experienced, passionate and extremely knowledgeable on his subject.

Matthew is one of those rare gems. I’ve had the pleasure to work with him on several projects over the last twenty years. He’s professional, extremely knowledgeable and always achieves the goals I had set out. I would not hesitate to work with Matthew again.

I’ve been lucky enough to have worked with Matthew on a few different projects, including feature film scripts, TV pilots, and show bibles. He helped me write the script to my first feature film and then later on while editing his advice on story structure was very useful in cutting scenes together.

Matthew’s guidance is practical and direct. He is a big fan of the phrase “While theory is very helpful for when you get stuck, practice it what allows you to get better.” So having him get me to write out scenes and concepts and then show me where they could be improved and where they where strong really helped me get my head around the process, it really did demystify it for me.

What really sets Matthew apart is his openness to all kinds of stories, which meant I could take whatever basic idea I hd, the start of a concert and he was able to give me the skills to flesh it out. No matter the genre: drama, comedy, or something more unconventional, he engages fully with the world you’re building and the characters you’re creating. At times while teaching it would feel more like a creative collaboration as Matthew was never precious with ideas or feedback.

As an award-winning editor, I’m already deeply familiar with storytelling, but Matthew’s insight into character, plot development, and narrative structure pushed me to sharpen my craft even further. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a thoughtful, trustworthy tutor who knows how to help turn ideas into strong, finished work.

Matthew taught a screenwriting class at the arts centre I run. He made all the students feel very comfortable, explaining everything clearly. He was interested in what everyone contributed and related to the very different styles of communication used by members of the group showing sensitivity to those who needed more support and encouragement. The information he shared was easy to follow and really valuable advice for every level. As well as his experience and knowledge in the field, his sharing of the practical realities of how the sector works was invaluable. The exercises were relevant and thought provoking and discussion was inclusive and lively.