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Writing Coach & Story Expert

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Hi, I’m James. 

I’m a screenwriter, coach and story expert based in Toronto.

I show screenwriters how to write their SIGNATURE SCRIPT, the script which converts readers, agents, and decision makers into fans. 

I also teach screenwriters and filmmakers how to grow their skills with my unique methods so they can elevate their art and accelerate their careers.

Learn With Me

My journey hasn’t always been easy. When I was starting out I struggled to get noticed and taken seriously as writer.

I realized I’d never break in until I converted decision makers into fans of my writing. 

So I became a story scientist, growing my skills and finding my voice so that I could write the SIGNATURE SCRIPT which converted readers into fans.

That SIGNATURE SCRIPT got me hired on Degrassi: The Next Generation. Once I broke in, I never looked back.

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Over the last 20 years I’ve been lucky enough to write for some pretty cool series.

I’ve written for Hardy Boys, Wynonna Earp, Slasher, Being Erica, Flashpoint and more. My work has been seen on Netflix, CBS, NBC, Hulu, UKTV and streamers and platforms all over the world.

I’ve been lucky enough to win several writing awards and was part of the Degrassi writing team bestowed with the 2011 Peabody Award. You can read more about me and my creative journey here.

How I Can Help You Grow

You might think you lack the talent or the connections to break in as a screenwriter or filmmaker. 

It’s true you might not have the connections. But you definitely don’t lack the talent.

All you need to break in is your SIGNATURE SCRIPT, the script only you can write. Your SIGNATURE SCRIPT will turn readers, agents, producers, directors, and actors who read your scripts into fans.  

Once you make fans, the industry will start buzzing.  And then they’ll start lining up to work with you. 

Imagine being able to work with the people you want to work with. Work on the shows you want to work on. Or make the movies you want to make.   

But it won’t happen overnight. You need to elevate your writing skills and learn how to write your SIGNATURE SCRIPT. 

My unique methods and creative strategies will show you how. If you’re ready to get started, click the Learn With Me button below.

Learn With Me

What Writers Say

"James helped me sort through my structure, characters, themes, scenes and intent of my story. Working with James elevated my material to a level where it is now seriously being considered in the marketplace and impacting future employment in a positive way."
Andrew Burrows-Trotman, a screenwriter, sitting at a desk with a laptop in front of him. He is leaning back in his chair, looking thoughtful and contemplative, perhaps reflecting on his experience teaching TV writing courses. The background is out of focus, but there are some books and papers on the desk, suggesting that he is deep in thought and focused on his craft.
Andrew Burrows-Trotman
screenWriter (The Porter, utopia falls)
"I really appreciate James' encouragement and guidance. He has always given me feedback that helps shape my scripts and find focus on what I want to write. James has the perspective and tools to guide you toward your goals, whatever they may be."
Faisal Lutchmedial, a filmmaker and TV writing instructor, standing in front of a whiteboard covered in notes and diagrams related to TV writing courses. He is pointing to the board with a marker in hand and appears to be in the middle of an engaging lecture or discussion. The background is blurred, but there are some chairs and tables visible, suggesting that he is teaching a class in a classroom or seminar setting.
Faisal Lutchmedial
screenWriter (Ransom, Endings)
"I came into the Screenright program with a few ideas, but James and his method helped me narrow my focus. I also found his methods useful in breaking down other series. Plus, James is so enthusiastic for your projects! It's nice having such a supportive cheerleader."
Casper Lynn, a screenwriter and TV writing instructor, sitting at a desk with a laptop. They are typing on keyboard with a focused expression, perhaps preparing for an upcoming class or grading student assignments. The background is out of focus, but there are some papers and books on the desk, suggesting they are hard at work on their craft as a teacher and writer.
Casper Lynn
Screenwriter
"James breaks down the daunting task of 'just write' into steps and processes that make getting started so much more manageable. James is such a supportive instructor who has put care into making his classes clear and easy to digest, while still both fun and informative."
Michelle Samcoe, a screenwriter and instructor of online screenwriting courses, sitting at a desk with a laptop in front of her. She is smiling at the camera and appears to be in the middle of an engaging video conference or webinar. The background is out of focus, but there are some books and notes on the desk, suggesting that she is a dedicated teacher and a passionate writer.
Michelle Samcoe
Screenwriter
"James is a terrific writer, storyteller and screenwriter. I have been guided by his knowledge about not just writing a script, but finding the answers to the more fundamental questions: Why this story? Why now? Why am I the one to write it? How to make it pop? James knows.” ​
Bestselling author Andrew Pyper
Andrew Pyper
Bestselling Author Of The Demonologist and Oracle
Learn about TV Writing Courses at our blog Okay Screenwriter

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