L.A. screenwriter brings industry experience to Point Park cinema classes Monday, September 24, 2012

Meet Tim Griffin

Visiting Artist Tim Griffin joins the Department of Cinema Arts for the Fall 2012 semester. Griffin, of Kansas City, Kan., is a Los Angeles based TV screenwriter who has written for the HBO show Entourage as well as sold several original pilots. He studied TV/broadcasting at Marquette University and writing at DePaul University - earning a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts.

Why did you choose to teach at Point Park?

I really wanted to get the teaching experience at the university level and had heard nothing but great things about the cinema & digital arts program at Point Park. Plus, the idea of passing along some of my hard-earned, industry writing knowledge to aspiring screenwriters really excited me.

What do you like about Pittsburgh so far?

I haven't had a chance to really explore yet, but Downtown Pittsburgh is lively with a lot going on. Plus, everyone I meet is very friendly and eager to point me in the right direction.

How will you incorporate your industry experience into the classes you teach?

All of my input on screenwriting and TV writing will be informed by my in-the-trenches experience on shows and in real network meetings. For me, it's important that students know what it's really like, how the business truly works, and what's expected of them as professional writers.

What is your teaching philosophy?

To my mind, the learning comes easier when student participation is significant in driving the momentum of the course.

What classes are you teaching?

• Introduction to Screenwriting
• History of TV
• Senior Thesis I

What advice do you have for prospective students considering a career in cinema arts?

The best advice I can give is to get involved in as many productions as possible and gain hands-on experience. And if you're a writer, always be creating content.

What has been your biggest professional achievement?

The opportunity to write for Entourage, a beloved and critically acclaimed TV show.

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