2024 Austin Film Festival & Writers Conference: Full Schedule

11:30am CDT

Opening Remarks

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT

Austin Film Festival (AFF) welcomes you to its 31st annual celebration of storytelling through film, television, and new media! Bringing together industry icons, independent filmmakers, aspiring storytellers, and everyone in between, this year’s Festival features intimate discussions, workshops, film premieres, retrospectives, parties, and limitless networking opportunities. Join Pamela Ribon and AFF staff for Opening Remarks to learn more about the week ahead, last-minute additions and changes, and new special guests.

Speakers

Pamela Ribon

writer My Year of Dicks, Moana, Ralph Breaks the Internet

Pamela Ribon is the Academy Award®-nominated creator and writer of MY YEAR OF DICKS, an adaptation of her critically-acclaimed comedic memoir NOTES TO BOYS (AND OTHER THINGS I SHOULDN’T SHARE IN PUBLIC). In addition to her work as a screenwriter (NIMONA, MOANA, RALPH BREAKS THE... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT
Austin Club 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:00pm CDT

How to Work the Writers Conference

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT

Austin Club

Sit down with these returning panelists and friends of AFF for prep and a pep talk on what the Conference has to offer: panels, pitches, and all the ways you can get the most out of your week.

Moderators

Greg Garrett

AFF moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Greg Garrett has been a panelist and moderator at the Austin Film Festival for more than fifteen years. At the Festival, he has interviewed luminaries such as Lawrence Kasdan, James Hart, Peter Hedges, and Damon Lindelof, and led dozens of conversations on craft, genre, adaptation... Read More →

Speakers

Shanon Ingles

writer and narrative designer Judas, Marvel’s Midnight Suns, God of War: Ragnarok, Batman: The Enemy Within, Batman: A Telltale Series; BAFTA member

SHANON M. INGLES is an Emmy-winning interactive screenwriter, narrative designer and BAFTA member. She’s best known for her work on the highly anticipated game JUDAS, Marvel’s Midnight Suns, God of War: Ragnarok, Batman: The Enemy Within, Batman: A Telltale Series, Silent Hill... Read More →

Alvaro Rodriguez

writer American Rust: Broken Justice, Florida Man, Machete, Seis Manos

Alvaro Rodriguez has been writing since childhood and, in fact, did his best work when he was 11. Still holding out for improvement, he is a writer for film and television (and animation!) based in Los Angeles. During the pandemic, he contributed a monologue from an imaginary Chet... Read More →

Sean Collins-Smith

story editor, Chicago PD; Staff Writer, Michael Schur's Field of Dreams; AFF Winner, 2018

Sean Collins-Smith (Story Editor, CHICAGO PD; Staff Writer, FIELD OF DREAMS) is a screenwriter and national award-winning journalist from Richmond, Virginia. A winner and 3-time finalist at the Austin Film Festival, Sean’s most recent pilot, SUICIDE MACHINES: A LIMITED SERIES, reached... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
Austin Club 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:00pm CDT

Meet Cute, Again: The Rom Com Resurgence

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary

The golden genre of the 2000s has recently returned to our screens with a vengeance. Welcome back to meet cutes, flirtatious banter, the third act break-up, and the happily ever after! Here to break down their new additions to the romantic comedy canon are Tiffany Paulsen (Holidate) and Ted Malawer (Red, White & Royal Blue).

Moderators

Erin Hallagan Clare

AFF moderator; Founder, Story Parlor; former Creative Director, Austin Film Festival

Erin Hallagan Clare is the Founder and Artistic Director of Story Parlor (www.storyparloravl.com), a narrative arts space dedicated to multidisciplinary storytelling based in Asheville, North Carolina. She is a certified creativity coach and holds a Masters in creative psychology, as well as a graduate certificate in Applied Mythology. A writer and storyteller, she has told st... Read More →

Speakers

Tiffany Paulsen

writer/director Winter Spring Summer or Fall; writer Holidate; About Fate; Nancy Drew; Adventures In Babysitting

Tiffany Paulsen has won both the DISNEY/ABC writing and SONY TV Directing Fellowships. Her directorial debut Winter Spring Summer or Fall stars Jenna Ortega for Paramount. Her writing credits include; Holidate for Netflix and About Fate for Amazon, both were #1 globally. Additionally... Read More →

Ted Malawer

writer Red, White & Royal Blue

Ted Malawer is a playwright and screenwriter from Long Island. He co-wrote Prime Video’s RED, WHITE & ROYAL BLUE, which debuted at #1 on the streamer and received a 2024 Emmy nomination for Outstanding Television Movie. Additional credits include AMERICAN RUST: BROKEN JUSTICE, RISE... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:00pm CDT

On Rewriting: Handling Notes & Avoiding the First Draft Trap

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall

These writers and executive will explore techniques to effectively handle page notes, avoid becoming trapped in the first draft mindset and use feedback to elevate scripts to new heights.

Sponsored by: Jim Burnstein & Bill Collage

Moderators

Jim Burnstein

writer Renaissance Man, D3: The Mighty Ducks, Ruffian, Love and Honor; Professor and Director of Screenwriting University of Michigan

Speakers

Mark L. Smith

writer The Revenant, Twisters, Boys In The Boat, Midnight Sky, the upcoming Netflix series American Primeval and Untamed

Mark L Smith is a North Carolina based writer and producer. Since his first produced screenplay, Vacancy (2006), some of his various projects have included The Revenant, Twisters, Overlord, The Midnight Sky, and The Boys In The Boat. He also created and produced the upcoming Netflix... Read More →

Bill Collage

screenwriter Emancipation, Divergent: Allegiant, Assassin’s Creed, Transporter: Refueled, Exodus: Gods and Kings, Tower Heist, Accepted; television writer Kings and Prophets

Cliff Roberts

producer The Midnight Sky, Emancipation, Sleeping Dogs

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:00pm CDT

Script to Screen: American Psycho

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

In the two decades since American Psycho hit theaters, the satirical black comedy has endured in the hearts and nightmares of audiences. Sit down with screenwriter Guinevere Turner to hear about her experience adapting the novel, captivating the zeitgeist, and striking an entirely unique tone.

Moderators

Michael MacCambridge

AFF moderator

From 1988-95, Michael MacCambridge was a columnist and critic at the Austin American-Statesman, writing about movies, music and popular culture. Since then, he has written and edited several books, including America's Game: The Epic Story of How Pro Football Captured A Nation, which... Read More →

Speakers

Guinevere Turner

writer Go Fish, American Psycho, Charlie Says, The L Word

Guinevere Turner is a writer, director and actor who has been working in film and TV since her 1994 debut film Go Fish, which she wrote, produced and starred in. She teamed up with director Mary Harron to write the films American Psycho, The Notorious Bettie Page, Charlie Says and... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

1:00pm CDT

The Future of Storytelling presented by TooFar Media

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

Join TooFar Media, pioneers in immersive storytelling, and Adim, leaders in entertainment technology, for an engaging discussion on the Future of Storytelling. Discover how cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing the way stories are created, shared, and experienced like never before!

Speakers

Melissa Kaspers

co-founder and CEO, Adim

Melissa Kaspers is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Adim. Adim is a tech platform Co-Founded by Kaspers, alongside Rob McElhenney (Always Sunny in Philadelphia), with the mission to reshape the future of entertainment by giving creators the tools to secure, manage, and... Read More →

Rajiv Parikh

President at TooFar Media

Rajiv Parikh has over 20 years of experience leading high-performing global marketing, sales and product teams defining and implementing go-to-market strategies for ground breaking technology-based solutions companies. In his current role, Rajiv is President of an innovative multimedia... Read More →

Sponsors

TooFar Media

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

1:00pm CDT

The Myth of The 3 Act Structure

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

In this groundbreaking seminar, WGA Paul Selvin Award Winner Jacob Krueger shows you why more and more successful writers are abandoning 3 act structure for a more intuitive approach. Learn why writers get "lost in the second act" and how to make sure that never happens to you again. Plus, discover a new way of thinking about structure that helps you transcend the tired old formulas, and grow your script organically, by connecting to your characters and your instincts as a writer. This panel is presented by Jacob Krueger Studio.

Speakers

Jacob Krueger

writer The Matthew Shepard Story; WGA Paul Selvin Award Winner

The Founder of Jacob Krueger Studio and host of the popular Write Your Screenplay podcast, Jacob has worked with thousands of writers, from Academy and Tony Award Winners, to new writers picking up the pen for the first time. His writing includes the screenplay for Emmy winning The... Read More →

Sponsors

Jacob Krueger Studios

Thursday October 24, 2024 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

2:45pm CDT

Anatomy of an Antagonist with Noah Hawley

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Central Presbyterian Church

In each season of Fargo, Noah Hawley has introduced us to unforgettable, layered, complex villains who fascinate the audience. Join this Emmy winning writer for look into his process crafting those characters and bringing them to life.

Speakers

Noah Hawley

showrunner Fargo, Alien: Earth; filmmaker, novelist

Award-winning Noah Hawley is one of the most accomplished auteurs and versatile storytellers working in television, film and literature. Hawley balances the art of telling cinematic, unforgettable character-driven stories that linger long after you’ve been immersed in them.Over... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

2:45pm CDT

Character Development in Animated Storytelling

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall

We’re bringing together executives from Pixar, Minnow Mountain animation studios, and Starburns Industries to talk about how characters are brought to life through writing, development, and illustration.

Moderators

Paul Alvarado-Dykstra

AFF moderator

Producer/executive/writer Paul Alvarado-Dykstra co-created Fantastic Fest, the largest genre film festival in the US, and is a former assistant to Oscar-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, with whom he worked in creative development on several projects, including Hellboy. Currently... Read More →

Speakers

Emily Mollenkopf

Head of Creative Development, Pixar Animation Studios

Emily Mollenkopf is Head of Creative Development at Pixar Animation Studios where she has helped guide films through the development process for over a decade. Emily works closely with Pixar's directors from concept through final draft. She helps them articulate their vision, prepares... Read More →

Alvaro Rodriguez

writer American Rust: Broken Justice, Florida Man, Machete, Seis Manos

James Fino

Co-Founder Starburns Industries Inc

JAMES FINO is a founding partner of Starburns Industries, Inc. He served as executive producer on the Emmy award-winning stop-motion special, ABED’S UNCONTROLLABLE CHRISTMAS, for NBC’s comedy COMMUNITY as well as Adult Swim’s stop-motion series, MARY SHELLEY’S FRANKENHOLE... Read More →

Steph Swope

animation producer Tower, Undone seasons 1 and 2, Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood, Quantum Cowboys

Steph Swope boasts a remarkable 25-year career in the independent film industry, earning recognition as an award-winning producer of animated series and feature films. Steph’s no-bullshit authenticity and a supernatural analytical ability has laid the foundation for Minnow Mountain’s... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

2:45pm CDT

Hartchart: True Detective: Night Country

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

A renowned story mapping tool, Hartchart is the key to developing strong character arcs and a well-paced plot. Learn how to master structure in your writing from the mind behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula, August Rush, and Hook, using True Detective: Night Country as a case study.

Speakers

James V. Hart

creator TheHartChart Story Mapping Tools ; writer Hook, Bram Stoker's Dracula, Contact, Muppet Treasure Island, August Rush, The Hot Zone

JAMES V. HART (J.V.) was born in Shreveport, Louisiana and grew up in Ft. Worth Texas on Drive-In Movies and Saturday Matinees. His writing/producing credits include; Hook, directed by Steven Spielberg based on an idea by Hart’s then 6 year old son, Jake, Bram Stoker’s Dracula... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

2:45pm CDT

Indie Film Track: Shorts

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

Creating a short film poses its own set of challenges. Panelists will share tips on developing characters under a time constraint, creating a thorough story arc, and establishing a clear beginning, middle and end with a limited runtime.

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference, Indie Film Track

2:45pm CDT

On the Making of Red, White and Royal Blue

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

After the suspenseful political romance took the book world by storm, the team behind its adaptation to film had their work cut out for them. Get a closer look at screenwriter Ted Malawer's creative process adapting the story from page to screen.

Moderators

Casey Baron

AFF moderator; programmer, Tribeca Festival

Born and raised in the small island of Dominica located in the West Indies, Casey Baron moved to Austin after graduating from Florida State University with a degree in English – Editing, Writing, and Media. Casey was a part of the Austin Film Festival family for seven years running... Read More →

Speakers

Ted Malawer

writer Red, White & Royal Blue

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

2:45pm CDT

On YA Drama: A Conversation with Julie Plec

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Austin Club

Julie Plec joins AFF to talk about her accomplished career as a writer and showrunner. She will explore how her fantasy teen drama The Vampire Diaries captivated a generation and spawned a television universe through spinoffs The Originals and Legacies.

Moderators

Fabienne Harford

AFF moderator

Speakers

Julie Plec

Creator/Showrunner/Executive Producer/Director

Julie Plec is a creator, showrunner, executive producer and director, most notably responsible for the complete Vampire Diaries Universe, which spanned 13 years and more than 300 episodes of television.She co-created and executive produced The Girls on the Bus, which recently premiered... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Austin Club 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

2:45pm CDT

The State of Filmmaking in Texas: Film Commissions, Incentives and the "Tex-Factor"

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

Join members of the Texas Association of Film Commissions and their guests as they explore what makes filming in Texas a unique, cost-effective and rewarding experience.

Thursday October 24, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Fiction Podcasting: Industry Insiders

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room

We're bringing together these industry executives to discuss how to immerse your audience in a brand new world using only audio cues.

Moderators

Sarah Rhea Werner

AFF moderator; podcast creator Girl In Space, Write Now

Sarah Rhea Werner is a writer, speaker, and podcast producer who loves to help other creators find confidence and success. She is the creator of the Write Now with Sarah Werner podcast and the award-winning audio drama, Girl In Space, and is the executive producer of the fantasy audio... Read More →

Speakers

Christy Gressman

VP Podcasts, Topic Studios; producer The Space Within, Cancellation Island, The Orbiting Human Circus, Adventures in New America, Dreamboy

Christy Gressman is the vice president and executive producer of podcasts at Topic Studios, overseeing creative, production, and business strategy. She formerly led audio at The Intercept and was a partner and the executive producer at the fiction-focused podcast network Night Vale... Read More →

Fred Greenhalgh

Head of Audio Production at Realm

US-based audio pioneer Fred Greenhalgh is best known for bringing location-recording techniques from his indie film background to the production of immersive audio movies. He’s Head of Audio Production at Realm, overseeing their original and partner scripted fiction programming... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference, Podcast Track

9:00am CDT

Finding Your Voice

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall

Finding your particular tone, style, and brand, and learning how to project it with confidence in your scripts can be the very thing that makes you stand out in a sea of material. Join us for a conversation about how to develop your distinct perspective and infuse your writing with personality.

Moderators

Greg Garrett

AFF moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Speakers

VJ Boyd

writer/producer Justified: City Primeval, S.W.A.T., and Justified

VJ Boyd most recently worked on the upcoming JUSTIFIED spinoff, CITY PRIMEVAL, for FX/Hulu. He previously wrote for SWAT and JUSTIFIED and co-created LINCOLN RHYME: HUNT FOR THE BONE COLLECTOR. He is also the co-author of the IDW comic book series NIGHT MOVES.

Justin Boyd

writer/producer Fear the Walking Dead, Sweet Tooth, Reprisal, Channel Zero

Justin Boyd is a television writer and producer whose credits include Fear The Walking Dead (AMC), Sweet Tooth (Netflix), Reprisal (Hulu), and Channel Zero (Syfy). In a previous life, Justin studied and taught philosophy at DePaul University in Chicago.

John J. Strauss

writer/executive producer Mozart in the Jungle, David Makes Man, There’s Something About Mary

Amy Talkington

writer/co-executive producer Little Fires Everywhere; Writer Valley Girl (remake); writer/director The Night of the White Pants; author Liv, Forever

Originally from Texas, Amy Talkington is an award-winning writer, director, producer and author currently living in Los Angeles.In the feature arena, Amy most recently wrote “Valley Girl” (MGM’s musical remake of the 80s cult film) and has written numerous other studio features... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Inside the Development Process: Television

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary

We’re bringing together a group of seasoned television executives to discuss the ins and outs of the development process. Come get the scoop on?what studios are looking for, the future of TV, and breaking into the industry from HBO executive Cela Sutton and 20th Television executive Jade-Addon Hall.

Speakers

Cela Sutton

Vice President, Drama Programming – HBO; Executive Sponsor – IndigeNext

Cela Sutton is currently a Vice President, Drama Programming at HBO, working across hourlong series including THE GILDED AGE and INDUSTRY. She was just recently a Director, Scripted Originals at Paramount+, where she participated in the rebranding of the service from CBS All Access... Read More →

Jade-Addon Hall

Vice President of Drama Development at 20th Television

Jade-Addon Hall is the Vice President of Drama Development at 20th Television where he develops television primarily for Disney+, HULU, ONYX, FX, ABC and other streaming platforms.Prior to 20th at Lionsgate TV, he oversaw THE POWER UNIVERSE, RUN THE WORLD, STEP UP, WELCOME TO FLATCH... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Inside the Game Writers Room

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

Central Presbyterian Church Smoot Hall

Join us to demystify the game writers' room - its gatekeepers, hierarchies, and processes. Learn how to get hired, how to collaborate with a team, and how the writing process itself works!

Moderators

Casey Baron

AFF moderator; programmer, Tribeca Festival

Speakers

Ashley Poprik

game writer Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, Marvel's Spider-Man 2, Marvel Mayhem, Clue: Disney Villains

Ashley Poprik is a video game writer at Activision's High Moon Studios. Ashley focuses on creating interesting characters that educate and support different life experiences to make her audience feel seen and heard. Ashley has previously worked at Insomniac Games and Hasbro, writing... Read More →

Justin Sloan

game writer Game of Thrones, Battlefield; tie-in author Quantum Paradox

JUSTIN SLOAN is currently writing on EA's Battlefield and tie-in novels for PlanetQuest. His credits include such games as Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, and Tales from the Borderlands. He holds a Master of Arts in creative writing from Johns Hopkins and he has published over... Read More →

Ross Beeley

game writer Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy's Edge, Batman: The Enemy Within, Guild Wars 2, Voltron, The Secret Saturdays,

Ross Beeley has been a writer in the entertainment industry for over 20 years. He started his career with the real-life drama series The E! True Hollywood Story before transitioning to animation, writing on shows for Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon. During his time in TV, Ross also... Read More →

Matthew Garcia-Dunn

narrative director / principal writer League of Legends; principal writer Wild Rift, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate, Quill, Legends of Runeterra ; associate head writer Silent Hill: Ascension ; writer/designer Marvel’s Midnight Suns, Dying Light 2, Space Marine 2, writer Free Fire ; screenplay Screamboat

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Matthew has been constructing worlds and telling stories all of his life. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Media Studies and Criticism, with minors in Theatre and English. He received an... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Central Presbyterian Church Smoot Hall 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Video Game Track

9:00am CDT

Morning Improv

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

Back by popular demand, we're offering improv comedy to help you warm up before embarking on today’s journey. Say "yes, and" to new skills that will help you market yourself and your script during the Festival.

Speakers

Dave Buckman

play director/producer at The Second City; Artistic Director at Boom Chicago

Dave Buckman has directed, taught and performed at some of the world’s leading improvisational comedy institutions. After several years studying and teaching improv in Chicago, Dave served as Artistic Director of 'Boom Chicago' in Amsterdam, where he was fortunate to work with and... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

9:00am CDT

On The Expanse: A Conversation with Naren Shankar

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Join this Emmy-nominated TV veteran for a deep dive into his career and body of work as a writer and showrunner. Learn how his background in engineering has buoyed his writing abilities for shows including CSI, Star Trek: The Next Generation, The Expanse, and For All Mankind.

Speakers

Naren Shankar

writer Star Trek: The Next Generation, For All Mankind, Grimm, Farscape, The Outer Limits; executive producer/showrunner The Expanse, CSI

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

9:00am CDT

On the Making of They Cloned Tyrone

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

Join this writer-director duo to discuss their debut feature, the genre-bending sociopolitical commentary exploring the mystery, sci-fi, comedy, and thriller genres.

Speakers

Juel Taylor

director They Cloned Tyrone

Juel Taylor is a writer/director from Tuskegee, Alabama. After receiving his Film Production MFA from USC's School of Cinematic Arts, he stumbled into a career in screenwriting, and managed to avoid homelessness in LA's overpriced housing market.

Tony Rettenmaier

writer/producer They Cloned Tyrone

Tony is a Southern California native. After attending film school at UCLA he was too afraid to enter the real world and so hid out in graduate film school at USC for a few years. When he couldn't put it off any longer he entered the 'work force' by gaffing on small projects and sleeping... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

The Screenwriter's Guide to Literary Agents

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

Central Presbyterian Church

We're bringing together a group of literary agents to answer your questions about what makes a standout portfolio, what agents are looking for in a new client, and the impact of an agent's advocacy.

Speakers

David Boxerbaum

Partner, Verve Talent & Literary Agency

David Boxerbaum is a prominent literary agent and partner at Verve, representing top tier writers, directors, and Showrunners across all genres. While he has earned his reputation as the very best at selling original material, specs, IP etc. David also champions a diverse roster of... Read More →

Bryan Besser

Founding Partner, Verve

Bryan Besser is a Founding Partner at Verve. Born in Connecticut and a graduate of Boston University, Besser has worked for the Walt Disney Company and Endeavor before founding Verve in 2010. His clients include Peter Ramsey (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse), John and Erich Hoeber... Read More →

Adam Levine

Partner, Verve Talent and Literary Agency

Adam Levine is one of the founding partners of Verve, a premier full-service agency with offices in Los Angeles and New York. An energetic and relentless voice on behalf of his clients, Levine is constantly setting the bar and rising above it when it comes to all aspects of literary... Read More →

Liz Parker

Managing Partner at Verve Talent & Literary Agency

Liz Parker is the Managing Partner at Verve. Joining Verve in 2018, Parker moved from New York to Los Angeles to build the agency’s Publishing division, which has since grown to encompass media rights and audio under an IP umbrella. A Middlebury College alumna, she previously worked... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Central Presbyterian Church 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

9:00am CDT

Women in the Room

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

Join us for an authentic and unfiltered discussion about the experiences of women in the industry. Listen in on their highs, lows, and everything in between.

Speakers

Tiffany Paulsen

writer/director Winter Spring Summer or Fall; writer Holidate; About Fate; Nancy Drew; Adventures In Babysitting

Niceole Levy

writer The Banker, The Recruit

After growing up near China Lake Naval Weapons Center in the middle of the Mojave Desert, Niceole escaped to the bright lights of Los Angeles. While studying acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, she realized her true love was writing stories, not playing them out. She... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Indie Film Track: Rewriting for Development

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

Rewriting never stops. Learn how to incorporate feedback, kill your darlings, and ultimately make to make your script stronger for its next stage of life.

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Indie Film Track

10:45am CDT

Inside the Development Process with Josephson Entertainment

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall

What do production companies look for when taking on new projects in film and television, and how are scripts selected for development? The Josephson Entertainment team will take a behind-the-scenes look into the development and production process, and what executives look for in the writers they choose to support.

Speakers

Christian Bersani

Vice President of Film & TV, Josephson Entertainment

Christian Bersani joined Josephson Entertainment in 2018. Currently, as Vice President of Film and TV, he helps to identify, develop, and produce projects for Josephson’s scripted slates. His recent work includes setting up a four-quadrant feature with franchise potential at Skydance... Read More →

Kelsi Fleming

Director of Development, Josephson Entertainment

Kelsi Fleming is currently a Director of Development at Josephson Entertainment. She works on both the Film and Television slates, identifying and developing projects. Before joining Josephson in 2018, Fleming was at Brillstein Entertainment Partners, primarily working with writers... Read More →

Matt Geller

President, Josephson Entertainment

D. Matt Geller is President of Josephson Entertainment, overseeing the Film & Television divisions of the company.Previously, Geller’s producing credits included the feature film REMEMBER. It starredAcademy Award winners Christopher Plummer and Martin Landau, directed by two-timeAcademy... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Making Your Audience Laugh

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

Getting a laugh early on in your script can earn you some serious goodwill with the reader. Hear about how to reel in your audience, introduce your own creative voice, and what managers and executives are looking for in a strong comedy script.

Moderators

John Merriman

AFF moderator

John Merriman starred in the New York Times Critic's Pick YOU HURT MY FEELINGS, the LA Film Fest winning feature GRETCHEN, and the indie comedies MUSTANG ISLAND, PICTURES OF SUPERHEROES, and CINEMA SIX. He also acted in the acclaimed Sundance films SISTER AIMEE and PIT STOP as well... Read More →

Speakers

Megan Amram

writer/producer The Good Place, The Simpsons, Parks & Rec, Silicon Valley; showrunner Pitch Perfect: Bumper in Berlin; performer/writer/director of the short series An Emmy For Megan

Megan Amram is a comedy writer, performer, and author. She was a writer and producer on the NBC series The Good Place for which she received an Emmy nomination, The Simpsons, Transparent, Silicon Valley, and the final three seasons of the NBC comedy Parks and Recreation. She showran... Read More →

Matt Selman

showrunner/executive producer The Simpsons

Emmy Award-winning writer/producer Matt Selman has worked on THE SIMPSONS for 27 seasons and counting. Selman has written or co-written 30 SIMPSONS episodes, and was one of the writers on THE SIMPSONS MOVIE. He has won seven Emmys, a Writer’s Guild of America Award and a Peabody... Read More →

Jennie Church-Cooper

Manager/Producer, Levity Entertainment

Peabody Award-winning manager/producer Jennie Church-Cooper has spent the last 15 years working with comedic writer-performers — scouting, cultivating, and propelling them into careers as TV and feature writers, showrunners, directors, podcasters, actors and more. She joined Levity... Read More →

Jameel Saleem

Writer, Producer (South Park, Bob's Burgers, Disenchantment)

With over fifteen years of experience, three time Emmy nominee Jameel Saleem has built a career in television and film as a writer and producer, earning recognition for his work on series such as South Park, Bob's Burgers, and Disenchantment. He's currently writing two pilots for... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

On the Making of Matilda

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

The beloved family classic Matilda has endured for decades. Join the husband and wife writing duo captured Roald Dahl's whimsical world and brought it to life on the big screen.

Moderators

Greg Garrett

AFF moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Speakers

Robin Swicord

2024 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting

Robin Swicord is primarily known for her work as a screenwriter for Memoirs Of A Geisha (Satellite Award for best screenplay); the 1994 Little Women (Writers Guild award nomination, Satellite award); Matilda (with her husband Nicholas Kazan); and the cult comedy Shag; The Perez Family... Read More →

Nicholas Kazan

writer Matilda, Reversal of Fortune, At Close Range, Bicentennial Man, Fallen

Nick is a playwright and screenwriter. Screen credits include Frances (co-author), At Close Range, Matilda (written with his wife, Robin Swicord), Reversal of Fortune (Academy Award nomination), Fallen, Bicentennial Man, and Enough. Dream Lover, which he wrote and directed, was called... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

10:45am CDT

The Prestige Miniseries

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

Austin Club

Marrying serialized storytelling and creative freedom, prestige miniseries have become the next frontier for writers and filmmakers alike. Hear from the creators and showrunners from celebrated miniseries Chernobyl and Women of the Movement on how to craft a compelling season of television.

Moderators

Erin Hallagan Clare

AFF moderator; Founder, Story Parlor; former Creative Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Marissa Jo Cerar

writer The Handmaid’s Tale, creator Women of the Movement, creator Black Cake

Marissa Jo Cerar is a NAACP Image Award and two-time Humanitas Prize winning writer and producer who began her career working on series such as Netflix’s 13 REASONS WHY and Hulu's THE HANDMAID’S TALE, for which she shares nominations for both the Emmys and Writers Guild Awards... Read More →

Craig Mazin

co-host Scriptnotes; writer The Last of Us, Chernobyl, The Hangover: Parts II & III

Craig Mazin is the Golden Globe, BAFTA and two-time Emmy Award-winning creator, writer and executive producer of the HBO limited series Chernobyl, for which he also won a Writers Guild, Producers Guild and Peabody Award. In addition to his work in television, Craig has written numerous... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Austin Club 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Writing and Creative Development at Pixar

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

Sit down with writers and executives from Pixar to learn the ins and outs of creating the animated films that tug on our heartstrings and break the box office records.

Speakers

Meg LeFauve

co-writer Pixar's Inside Out, writer Netflix’s My Father's Dragon, writer Pixar's The Good Dinosaur; co-story Captain Marvel; co-host The Screenwriting Life Podcast

Nominated for Best Screenplay Oscar for the Pixar blockbuster INSIDE OUT, LeFauve won an Annie Award for that screenplay. She also wrote Pixar's Golden Globe nominated THE GOOD DINOSAUR. LeFauve is currently writing a series for the new Peacock Channel as well as the animated film... Read More →

Megan Alderson

Creative Development Executive, Pixar Animation Studios

Megan Alderson, a Creative Development Executive at Pixar Animation Studios supports projects in early development, scouts screenwriters, collaborates with experts and spearheads research trips. She has worked on notable projects like Inside Out, Finding Dory, Coco, Soul, Turning... Read More →

Dave Holstein

Co-screenwriter Inside Out 2; Creator/showrunner Showtime’s Kidding; Writer/producer Weeds, Raising Hope, I’m Dying Up Here

Dave Holstein is the Golden Globe-nominated co-screenwriter of Disney Pixar’s INSIDE OUT 2. The film, which was the sequel to the 2015 film INSIDE OUT, was released on June 14, 2024 and instantly rose to global success. INSIDE OUT 2 became the first film of 2024 to hit $1 Billion... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Writing the Spec That Will Get You Repped

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary

Join the writer whose spec became the blockbuster Air starring Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, and Viola Davis! Learn to channel your inner voice into a spec that will stand out to industry gatekeepers. Techniques discussed include: how to break the rules effectively, finding the story only you can tell, creating compelling and undeniable characters, and unpacking what it means to write what you "know".

Speakers

Alex Convery

writer Air

Alex Convery wrote AIR starring Ben Affleck, Matt Damon and Viola Davis. He's been featured on the annual Hollywood Blacklist three times and was named one of Variety's 10 Screenwriters to Watch in 2022. He's now working on another script for Skydance with Justin Lin attached to direct... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:30pm CDT

A Conversation with Meg LeFauve

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Oscar-nominated screenwriter Meg LeFauve explores emotional storytelling, compelling characters, and intricate worldbuilding in this conversation about her career and body of work, including Inside Out, Captain Marvel, The Good Dinosaur, and most recently, the blockbuster hit Inside Out 2.

Moderators

Erin Hallagan Clare

AFF moderator; Founder, Story Parlor; former Creative Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Meg LeFauve

co-writer Pixar's Inside Out, writer Netflix’s My Father's Dragon, writer Pixar's The Good Dinosaur; co-story Captain Marvel; co-host The Screenwriting Life Podcast

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

1:30pm CDT

A Thin Line Between Love & Hate: Exploring Character Dynamics

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT

Austin Club

Both Succession and Challengers expertly depicted unbreakable bonds between rivals, inescapable conflict cycles, and ever-evolving character relationships that kept viewers guessing. Learn from the writers behind these beloved projects on how they design complex character dynamics, and introduce conflict that puts those relationships to the test.

Speakers

Susan Soon He Stanton

writer/producer Succession, Dead Ringers

Susan Soon He Stanton is a playwright, television writer, and screenwriter originally from ‘Aiea, Hawai‘i, and now living in New York and London.Susan has worked on all four seasons of HBO’s SUCCESSION, as a writer/producer, for which she has received multiple Emmy (2x), Golden... Read More →

Justin Kuritzkes

writer Challengers, Queer

Justin Kuritzkes is a playwright, novelist, and screenwriter. Kuritzkes most recently wrote CHALLENGERS, directed by Luca Guadagnino, produced by Amy Pascal and Rachel O’Connor, and starring Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist. The film was released in theaters and Prime Video... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
Austin Club 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference, Playwriting Track

1:30pm CDT

Finding Your Project's Home

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary

Secure the backing and distribution your script deserves. Learn how to find the creative partner who understands your vision and helps you bring your story to life.

Moderators

Trey Selman

AFF moderator

Born in Texas. Raised on Tex-Mex. Studied business at The University of Texas; now writes about Texas. Prefers stars over skyscrapers, cedar fever over traffic jams and pit masters over maitre d's. Thinks AFF, like his favorite song, is a neon sign flashin', "Welcome, come on in... Read More →

Speakers

Ryan Cunningham

Manager/Producer, Anonymous Content

Ryan Cunningham is a literary manager, producer, and partner at Anonymous Content. He began his career in physical production on productions shooting in New Orleans while attending Tulane University. After graduating, Ryan moved to Los Angeles where he worked at New Regency, the Metropolitan... Read More →

Karl Hartman

Co-owner of Big Indie Pictures, producer Eric LaRue, Big Indie credits include Manchester by the Sea, Still Alice, Swarm, Underground Railroad

After returning from Peace Corps Albania, Karl began his career in physical productionon feature films and television shows. He met veteran producer Declan Baldwin in 2009.They worked together on projects like: Still Alice, Manchester by the Sea, and CaptainFantastic. In 2016, Karl... Read More →

Vanessa Johnston

Head of Television, Mandalay Entertainment

Vanessa Johnston is the Head of Television at Mandalay Entertainment. Founded in 1995, Mandalay has acquired over 70 Academy Award and Emmy Award nominations. Vanessa oversees both scripted and unscripted television, with a slate of over 45 projects in development and production... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:30pm CDT

Fun for the Whole Family

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall

We’re bringing together these accomplished writers who write projects for people of all ages – teens, young adults, parents, children – to talk about the art of creating projects that families can enjoy together.

Moderators

Beth Serlin

AFF moderator; Associate Professor of Screenwriting, Loyola Marymount University

Speakers

Nicole Perlman

co-writer Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain Marvel, Detective Pikachu

Nicole Perlman is best known for co-writing “Guardians of the Galaxy," “Captain Marvel,” and “Detective Pikachu." Her screenplays have won the Tribeca Film Festival's Sloan Foundation Grant for Science in Film, the Hugo Award, and the Ray Bradbury award for Outstanding Dramatic... Read More →

Benji Samit

co-writer Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, Pokemon Detective Pikachu; co-showrunner LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy

Dan Hernandez and Benji Samit are writer-producers who recently served as co-showrunners and executive producers of the upcoming LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy, as well as Hulu’s adult animated comedy Koala Man. The duo also created the Disney Channel original show Ultra Violet... Read More →

Dan Hernandez

co-writer Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, Pokemon Detective Pikachu; co-showrunner LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy

Kelly Younger

writer Candy Cane Lane, Muppets Haunted Mansion, Unt. Skydance Animation Feature

Kelly Younger is a screenwriter, TV writer, playwright, story consultant, and Emmy-nominated producer. His recent work includes Candy Cane Lane, starring Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross, Muppets Haunted Mansion, Muppets Now, and an upcoming Skydance Animation feature based on Jack... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:30pm CDT

Script to Screen: Bojack Horseman

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

This beloved adult animated comedy charmed critics and audiences alike with its unflinching exploration of the human condition. Join two of the show’s writers, Joe Lawson and Alison Flierl, as they break down episodes from seasons 2 and 3, which received near universal critical acclaim.

Moderators

Harrison Glaser

AFF moderator; former Film Competitions Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Alison Flierl

writer BoJack Horseman, School Of Rock, Conan

After having to wear an incredibly awkward chin gear as a kid, Alison realized the only path for her was comedy. One of her first big hits was a book, titled Mr. Kropp And The Hot Dog Attack. It got rave reviews from her fellow 3rd graders. After that giant success, Alison received... Read More →

Joe Lawson

writer Poker Face, Shameless, BoJack Horseman, This is Us, Modern Family

Joe was a writer and Co-Executive Producer on BOJACK HORSEMAN, where he won a Writer’s Guild trophy for his episode “Stop the Presses.” His most recent job was on a show called POKER FACE. Prior to that, he wrote on SHAMELESS for three seasons. And MODERN FAMILY, and THIS IS... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:30pm CDT

The Screenwriter's Guide to Co-Writers

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT

Central Presbyterian Church

Noah Harpster & Micah Fitzerman-Blue will share a behind-the-scenes look into their collaborative process. Join us for a candidconversation about writing with a partner: the ups, downs, and everything inbetween.

Moderators

Johnny McCallister

AFF Moderator

Johnny McAllister is an award-winning writer, director and producer from Donegal, Ireland via the Middle East and elsewhere. He has written on over a dozen film and TV projects for the likes of Warner Brothers and Starz and have played at festivals such as Cannes, Sundance, SXSW and... Read More →

Speakers

Noah Harpster

writer/executive producer A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Transparent; creator/showrunner Painkiller, The USA vs. Vince McMahon; writer Bambi, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, Beautiful Ruins; writer/director Bottomless Belly Button

Micah Fitzerman-Blue & Noah Harpster won the Peabody Award, the PEN Award, and the Humanitas Prize for their work as screenwriters. They've also been nominated for the Emmy, Golden Globe, People's Choice, and multiple WGA Awards. Together, they spent four seasons writing and producing... Read More →

Micah Fitzerman-Blue

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

1:30pm CDT

The World of Indie Podcasting: Creating and Producing Your Own Show

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

Establishing your own podcast production company and bringing your idea to life is no small feat. Discuss how to write for production, flesh out a full season’s worth of story and character arcs, record and edit a podcast, and figure out the best path for distribution.

Moderators

Sarah Rhea Werner

AFF moderator; podcast creator Girl In Space, Write Now

Speakers

Faith McQuinn

Director/Founder, Observer Pictures

Faith McQuinn has been a writer and video editor since 2005, working in LA, Orange County, and now Nashville on everything from music videos to reality television to narrative film. She spent nine years teaching screenwriting and directing at The Art Institute of Tennessee and Middle... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Podcast Track

3:15pm CDT

Indie Film Track: Documentary Storytelling

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room

Documentary filmmaking requires a multi-layered writing process: adapting to unforeseen circumstances throughout production and working to accurately represent your subjects. Hear from a panel of documentary filmmakers on how to master the craft.

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference, Indie Film Track

3:15pm CDT

Inside the Writers Room: Fallout

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT

Central Presbyterian Church

Adapted from the record-breaking video game, Amazon's Fallout series won over long-time fans and newcomers with its bold style, treatment of the source material, and nonstop action. Join staff writers as they share their experiences in the writers room of this Emmy-nominated series.

Moderators

Casey Baron

AFF moderator; programmer, Tribeca Festival

Speakers

Gursimran Sandhu

writer Fallout (Amazon), Game of Thrones (HBO), Star Wars: The Bad Batch (Disney+), Expats (Amazon)

Gursimran is an Emmy award-nominated writer, director, and producer who has worked on some of the most compelling television shows in recent memory. Most recently she wrote and produced the critically-acclaimed TV series FALLOUT on AMAZON. Other credits include HBO’s Emmy Award-winning... Read More →

Chaz Hawkins

writer Fallout, The Sauce, Who Fears Death

Chaz escaped horror by writing horror. He grew up in Tennessee where the KKK lynches the unlucky, where the Daughters of the Confederacy corrupt every student’s education, where slavery lives as conscripted prison labor, where monuments to human rights atrocities tuck themselves... Read More →

Kieran Fitzgerald

writer Fallout, Snowden, Wormwood, The Homesman, The Ballad of Esequiel Hernandez

Kieran Fitzgerald has a BA in English from Harvard University and an MFA in fiction and screenwriting from the Michener Center for Writers. He wrote and directed the feature documentary, The Ballad of Esequiel Hernández, which was nominated for an Emmy in investigative journalism... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Video Game Track

3:15pm CDT

On Shogun: A Conversation with Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT

Austin Club

High stakes politics, forbidden romance, fish-out-of-water hijinks, and treachorous battle scenes: FX's Shogun is a masterclass in writing compelling television. Join the show's co-creators as they explore their meticulous adaptation and writing process.

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Executive Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Justin Marks

2024 Recipient of the Writer’s Writer Award

The Writer’s Writer Award, introduced in 2023, honors a singular talent already recognized within the industry and by their peers, whose latest project has illustrated their versatility across mediums and elevated the trajectory of their career. The 2024 awardee is screenwriter... Read More →

Rachel Kondo

2024 Recipient of the New Voice Award

Shōgun co-creator Rachel Kondo will receive the 2024 New Voice Award, which celebrates unique and captivating new voices in film, television, and new media.Rachel Kondo was born and raised on Maui. Her writing has appeared in Electric Literature, Ploughshares Solos and Indiana Review... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
Austin Club 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:15pm CDT

On Vida: A Conversation with Tanya Saracho

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Heartwarming family drama Vida became a critical darling upon its release, charming critics and audiences alike. Hear from creator and showrunner Tanya Saracho on exploring gentrification, fraught family dynamics, and sexuality from an authentic point of view.

Moderators

Marcelena Campos Mayhorn

AFF moderator; writer DC's Legends of Tomorrow, Selena: The Series

Marcelena Campos Mayhorn most recently worked on the final two seasons of DC’S LEGENDS OF TOMORROW (The CW). She previously wrote on SELENA: THE SERIES (Netflix), and has had work published in places such as Shondaland.com and Texas Monthly.Originally from Seguin, TX, she currently... Read More →

Speakers

Tanya Saracho

creator & showrunner Vida, Founder of Ignition Lab & Untitled Latinx Project

Tanya Saracho is a playwright and television writer who most recently served as creator, showrunner, and executive producer of the critically-acclaimed series, Vida, on Starz. The show featured all Latine writers and directors, including Saracho, who made her television directorial... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Playwriting Track

3:15pm CDT

Short Story, Big IP: Selling an Original Idea

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary

The secret to making it in Hollywood: start small! Selling a short story has become the industry's fast track for new movies and TV. Trick executives into making your original idea by demonstrating the value of your own IP. Learn how to write a compelling short story, and how to create traction for your voice and ideas.

Moderators

Karol Hoeffner

AFF moderator; Chair of Screenwriting, Loyola Marymount University

Speakers

David Boxerbaum

Partner, Verve Talent & Literary Agency

Scott Glassgold

producer Tarot, Prospect, Hurricane Season

Scott Glassgold is the founder of Ground Control, a leading entertainment platformspecializing in filmed media & publishing. Scott has produced such feature films as Prospectwith Pedro Pascal, Hurricane Season with Forest Whitaker and Sony Pictures' Tarot whichjust completed a theatrical... Read More →

Marcus Kliewer

author, We Used to Live Here, Caretaker

Marcus Kliewer is a best selling author who’s critically praised debut novel, We Used to Live Here, was published by Simon and Schuster and its film rights were snapped up by Netflix with Blake Lively set to star. Additionally, Marcus’ short story, Caretaker, was sold to Universal... Read More →

Liz Parker

Managing Partner at Verve Talent & Literary Agency

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:15pm CDT

State of the Industry: Features

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

We’re bringing together a group of seasoned storytellers and entertainment executives to discuss the current state of the film industry. Get behind-the-scenes insight into current trends, popular releases, and future predictions of where the business is heading.

Speakers

Virgil Williams

writer Mudbound, A Journal for Jordan, The Piano Lesson

Virgil Williams is an Oscar-nominated screenwriter who most recently adapted August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson for Netflix, which will be released in November of this year. He co-wrote the script with Malcolm Washington, who is also making his feature-film directorial debut. Samuel... Read More →

Tiffany Paulsen

writer/director Winter Spring Summer or Fall; writer Holidate; About Fate; Nancy Drew; Adventures In Babysitting

Amy Beecroft

Head of Verve Ventures

In 2015, Amy Beecroft joined Verve to start their independent film finance and sales arm, Verve Ventures. Since its inception, Beecroft has propelled the team into a major player in the independent film landscape. Beecroft has been a fixture in the film finance, sales and distribution... Read More →

Milan Chakraborty

producer She Taught Love, My Friend Dahmer; executive producer Assassination Nation, Black Barbie: A Documentary

Milan Chakraborty, Head of Film at Marginal MediaWorks, oversees all of the company’s efforts in independent, studio and streaming film. He is an 18 year veteran of the film industry. Milan worked at Warner Bros and New Line Cinema in production finance and accounting on projects... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:15pm CDT

You're Repped - Now What?

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

For an emerging writer, signing with a manager is a huge milestone. Learn how to capitalize on that success from recently repped and working writers: leverage your manager's support, pitch yourself and your portfolio, and secure your first paid writing job.

Moderators

Rebekah Mueller

AFF moderator and TV writer

Rebekah Mueller is a dark drama and genre writer in the Bible Belt of rural Pennsylvania, where she always knew she was close to home by the "Repent or Burn in Hell" barn murals. She began her career as a video editor before pivoting into the tech industry for over a decade. Her disillusionment... Read More →

Speakers

Josh Flanagan

head writer & supervising producer, Elkhorn (INSP), creator/showrunner/EP Day 5 & Arizona Circle (Rooster Teeth)

Josh Flanagan is an objectively hirsute writer-director. Raised across Texas and schooled at its titular university, Josh rode the rise of digital media as a lead creative and questionably-talented cast member at Rooster Teeth Productions, where he pioneered interactive web series... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

9:00pm CDT

Scriptnotes, Live!

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Critically acclaimed podcast Scriptnotes returns to AFF. Join co-hosts Craig Mazin and John August for an in-depth look at the mechanics of a great script.

Speakers

John August

co-host Scriptnotes; writer Frankenweenie, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Big Fish, Charlie’s Angels, Go

John August’s screenwriting credits include the live-action Aladdin, Go, Frankenweenie, Corpse Bride, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and both Charlie’s Angels movies. His feature directing debut, The Nines, premiered at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival. He received a 2004 BAFTA... Read More →

Craig Mazin

co-host Scriptnotes; writer The Last of Us, Chernobyl, The Hangover: Parts II & III

Friday October 25, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

9:00am CDT

A Conversation with Rian Johnson

Saturday October 26, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Join celebrated filmmaker Rian Johnson, the mind behind behind the beloved Knives Out franchise, Brick, Looper, and mystery series Poker Face, to hear about his genre-bending expertise and acclaimed career.

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Executive Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Rian Johnson

writer/director/producer Knives Out, Glass Onion, Wake Up Dead Man, The Last Jedi, Looper, Brick; creator Poker Face

Rian Johnson is an Academy Award® and Golden Globe®-nominated filmmaker known for his distinctive cinematic style and storytelling that blends genre elements with a heartfelt, soulful core.Johnson recently wrapped production on Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, the third film... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

9:00am CDT

Level Up: How to Break Into Writing for Video Games

Saturday October 26, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

Central Presbyterian Church Smoot Hall

Come learn how aspiring writers can spawn into the video game industry and work their way up to the final boss - the game writers' room.

Speakers

Shanon Ingles

writer and narrative designer Judas, Marvel’s Midnight Suns, God of War: Ragnarok, Batman: The Enemy Within, Batman: A Telltale Series; BAFTA member

Ashley Poprik

game writer Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, Marvel's Spider-Man 2, Marvel Mayhem, Clue: Disney Villains

Ryan Kaufman

writer/designer Telltale's Walking Dead, Wolf Among Us, Telltale's Game of Thrones, LucasArts: Rogue Squadron, LucasArts: Republic Commando; author Gawain - A Year To Live

I began my career at LucasArts Entertainment Company, building Star Wars games for the PC and early consoles: titles like Jedi Knight, Rogue Squadron and Republic Commando. I was a level designer then, primarily focused on creating challenging and fun player experiences, but my colleagues... Read More →

Justin Sloan

game writer Game of Thrones, Battlefield; tie-in author Quantum Paradox

Saturday October 26, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Central Presbyterian Church Smoot Hall 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Video Game Track

9:00am CDT

Navigating the Great Contraction

Saturday October 26, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary

The foundation of the entertainment industry is shifting, and writers at all levels are feeling the tremors. Hear from industry insiders to discuss what the current state of entertainment means for writers, and how to adapt and thrive in this new environment.

Moderators

Ryan P. Hall

AFF moderator

Ryan P. Hall is President of YMH Studios and is responsible for leading production and creative development, while also overseeing the company’s e-commerce and social media strategies . YMH Studios was founded by Tom Segura, which he runs with his wife, comedian Christina Pazsitzky... Read More →

Speakers

Pamela Ribon

writer My Year of Dicks, Moana, Ralph Breaks the Internet

David Boxerbaum

Partner, Verve Talent & Literary Agency

Karl Hartman

Co-owner of Big Indie Pictures, producer Eric LaRue, Big Indie credits include Manchester by the Sea, Still Alice, Swarm, Underground Railroad

Craig Brody

Principal/Manager Map Point Management

Craig began his career as a corporate lawyer, specializing in intellectual property law in New York City. After practicing law for five years, Craig found that he had a deeper passion for championing creators than corporations. He decided to leave his legal career behind and moved... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Pitching Your Personal Story

Saturday October 26, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

As a writer, your most valuable asset is your point of view. Conveying your own unique perspective, and how your lived experience has colored it, is a powerful way to show producers and executives that you’re the right person for the job. Discover how to pitch your own personal logline and lifetime!

Moderators

Greg Garrett

AFF moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Speakers

Carole Kirschner

Creator and Director Paramount Writers Mentoring Program, Director WGA Showrunner Training Program, Author, Entertainment career coach

Having worked as a senior level television development executive for eighteen years (including her posts at CBS and as head of Steven Spielberg’s first Amblin Television), Carole has read heard over 5,000 pitches, read more than 3,000 scripts, bought hundreds of projects and was... Read More →

Liz Kelly

Director of Creative Talent Development at Disney

Liz Kelly is Director of Creative Talent Development & Inclusion at Disney Entertainment Television. In this role, she works with the network and studio to staff writers and directors across ABC, ABC Signature, Freeform, Disney Channel, 20th TV, FX, Nat Geo, Disney+ and Hulu’s scripted... Read More →

Kor Adana

writer/producer Dune: Prophecy, Star Wars: The Acolyte, Mr. Robot

Kor Adana came up as a writer/producer on USA’s award-winning series, Mr. Robot. He went on to co-executive produce Lucasfilm’s live-action Star Wars series The Acolyte, which is airing on Disney+. He is also a co-executive producer on HBO’s upcoming Dune prequel series, Dune... Read More →

Chris Burns

Manager/ Producer, Underscore Talent

Chris Burns is a manager and producer at Underscore Talent where he works with people across a variety of different creative disciplines. His clients have written for TV (SNL, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Broad City, Miracle Workers and many more), made comedy specials for Netflix and... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

A Conversation with Kathleen Kennedy

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

From E.T. to Indiana Jones, from Back to the Future to Star Wars, from Schinder's List to The Bridges of Madison County, Kathleen Kennedy is the producing powerhouse behind countless classic films. Join us to hear her reflect on her storied career and learn how she finds inspiration after decades of experience.

Speakers

Kathleen Kennedy

2024 Recipient of the Polly Platt Award for Producing

Recipient of the Academy’s prestigious 2018 Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, the Producers Guild of America Milestone Award, and an eight-time Academy Award®-nominee, Kathleen Kennedy is one of the most successful and respected producers in the film industry today. As President... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

10:45am CDT

An Unfiltered Look Inside Hollywood: Kangaroo Jack

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall

Get a candid look at the making of the divisive 2003 action-comedy Kangaroo Jack from screenwriter Scott Rosenberg. Learn about writer-producer relationships in the industry and hear the story of how his original proposal of an adult dark comedy transformed into the family flick that ultimately divided audiences.

Moderators

Shane Black

writer/director The Predator, The Nice Guys, Iron Man 3, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang; writer Lethal Weapon, Last Action Hero, The Last Boy Scout, The Long Kiss Goodnight

SHANE BLACK has been responsible for creating a number of box office blockbusters, including the first two installments of the Lethal Weapon series and 1991’s The Last Boy Scout. In 1990, Shane sold his espionage script The Long Kiss Goodnight for a record sum of money. His directorial... Read More →

Speakers

Scott Rosenberg

writer Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle, Venom, Con Air, Beautiful Girls

Originally from Boston, Scott Rosenberg has written the screenplays for movies including “THINGS TO IN DENVER WHEN YOU’RE DEAD”, “BEAUTIFUL GIRLS”, “CON AIR”, “DISTURBING BEHAVIOR”, and “GONE IN 60 SECONDS”. He co-wrote “HIGH FIDELITY”, “JUMANJI: WELCOME... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

In the Writers Room: Succession

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

Central Presbyterian Church

Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into one of the most coveted writer's rooms of television history with Emmy-winning writer/producer Susan Soon He Stanton.

Moderators

R.B. Brenner

AFF moderator; Lecturer, Stanford University

R.B. Brenner teaches journalism at Stanford University, following a three-decade career as a newspaper reporter and editor. He held several prominent editing positions at The Washington Post and has been a consultant for two journalism-themed films: “The Post” (2017) and “State... Read More →

Speakers

Susan Soon He Stanton

writer/producer Succession, Dead Ringers

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

10:45am CDT

Let Me Speak to Your Manager

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

Join this panel to discuss the manager’s role as an important partner for writers, their impact on a writer’s career, and what they look for in prospective clients.

Speakers

Ryan Cunningham

Manager/Producer, Anonymous Content

Isabella Mastrodicasa

Manager/Producer, Founder of Never Settle Media

Born and raised in Europe, Isabella Mastrodicasa is an LA-based manager and producer. After graduating in Criminal Law from Bocconi University in Milan and in Business & Management of Entertainment from UCLA, she started her career in Hollywood at Verve in the Motion Picture department... Read More →

Adam Kolbrenner

Founder, Lit Entertainment Group

Adam Kolbrenner is the founder and President of Lit Entertainment Group - a Beverly Hills, CAbased literary management and feature film and television production company. In feature film, Lit is producing the upcoming Skydance/Apple+ film THE GORGE. Miles Teller, Anya Taylor-Joy... Read More →

Sean Butler

co-founder and President, Cultivate Entertainment

Sean M. Butler has worked in the entertainment industry for over 15 years. His career began with a four-year stint at Scott Rudin Productions, where he progressed from intern to assistant, working under three different studios: Sony, Disney, and Paramount. Following his time with... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Personal Pitching Workshop

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room

In this interactive experience, you can volunteer to pitch your project in front of your peers and a panel of industry leaders. Panelists will evaluate your answers, simulate a real life pitching experience, and give you real-time feedback on how to present yourself to studio executives. You will receive straightforward, valuable guidance on how to pivot during a presentation, pitch your personal logline, and answer unexpected questions.

Speakers

Micah Cyrus

producer, All American

James V. Hart

creator TheHartChart Story Mapping Tools ; writer Hook, Bram Stoker's Dracula, Contact, Muppet Treasure Island, August Rush, The Hot Zone

Rebecca Windsor

independent producer, former Head of the Warner Bros. Television Workshops, former WBTV Current Programming executive

Rebecca Windsor served as the Vice President and Head of the Warner Bros. Television Workshop, the premier writing and directing program for artists looking to launch their television careers. In her role leading the Workshops, she launched the careers of over 60 writers and 45 directors... Read More →

Vanessa Johnston

Head of Television, Mandalay Entertainment

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

The Screenwriter's Guide to Adapting IP

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

Hear from both the writer and executive perspective on how to capitalize on the industry's insatiable craving for intellectual property. Learn about both the logistical and creative aspects of adapting IP.

Moderators

Paul Alvarado-Dykstra

AFF moderator

Speakers

Nicole Perlman

co-writer Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain Marvel, Detective Pikachu

Jodi Hildebrand

Scripted Film and TV at Conde Nast, Vanity Fair, The New Yorker. Producer, Peter Rabbit and its sequel.

Jodi Hildebrand is a film and television producer and currently runs the Scripted Television and Film team at Conde Nast Entertainment, building film and television slates for global media brands such as The New Yorker, Vanity Fair and Wired. Previously she was partnered with writer/director... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Your 2nd Act: How to Parlay the 1st Writing Job into a Career presented by Loyola Marymount University

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary

Gain valuable insights from writers who have worked on Jury Duty, Fallout, Lopez vs. Lopez, and Tulsa King (among others) on how to build career momentum after your first big break!

Moderators

Karol Hoeffner

AFF moderator; Chair of Screenwriting, Loyola Marymount University

Speakers

Chaz Hawkins

writer Fallout, The Sauce, Who Fears Death

Ese Shaw

writer Jury Duty Season 1

Ese, which means "God's gift" in the Nigerian Igbo language, or just "that" in Spanish, was taught the meaning of perspective from a young age, allowing him to create nuanced and vibrant characters across tones typically within socio-political frameworks. Ese is a dramedy writer hailing... Read More →

Rebecca Murga

writer ABC's WILL TRENT, Apple TV's SWAGGER, and Director for Veterans in Media & Entertainment

Rebecca Murga is a Chicago-born, Puerto Rican writer and former military officer. Currently, Rebecca is a writer on the ABC TV series WILL TRENT, has previously written on Apple TV+’s SWAGGER, and has written features for A&E/Lifetime and New Line Cinema. Currently she is developing... Read More →

Jen Howell

writer Baby Daddy, Lopez V. Lopez

Jen Howell grew up in Newport Beach, California before attending Northwestern University in Illinois. Her path has been circuitous: Due to an ill-timed writers' strike as she was moving to LA, Jen spent time working at the British Consulate and as a youth pastor at a local church... Read More →

Sponsors

Loyola Marymount University

Saturday October 26, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:15pm CDT

Awards Luncheon

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:15pm - 2:15pm CDT

Austin Club

While attending the Festival, don't miss the opportunity to attend AFF's Awards Luncheon, where you can dine with panelists, awardees, and hear inspiring speeches from this year's honorees and winners. A must attend event to make the most of your AFF experience.

ADDITIONAL TICKET PURCHASE REQUIRED! PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY. AFF reserves the right not to seat late parties. This ticket in non-transferable.

Speakers

Kathleen Kennedy

2024 Recipient of the Polly Platt Award for Producing

Christina Hodson

writer The Flash, Bumblebee, Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey

Christina Hodson is a British born, Los Angeles based, writer and producer. She first transitioned from development executive to screenwriter in 2012. Since then, among various projects for studios, she wrote Bumblebee for Paramount (2018) and wrote and co-produced Harley Quinn: Birds... Read More →

Ronald D. Moore

2024 Recipient of Outstanding the Television Writer Award

Deeply rooted in the sci-fi genre, Moore got his start in the entertainment business on the writing staff of “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” During his tenure there, he wrote or co-wrote 27 episodes, including the two-hour series finale “All Good Things,” for which he won... Read More →

Justin Marks

2024 Recipient of the Writer’s Writer Award

Rachel Kondo

2024 Recipient of the New Voice Award

Alvaro Rodriguez

writer American Rust: Broken Justice, Florida Man, Machete, Seis Manos

Rian Johnson

writer/director/producer Knives Out, Glass Onion, Wake Up Dead Man, The Last Jedi, Looper, Brick; creator Poker Face

Robin Swicord

2024 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting

Nicholas Kazan

writer Matilda, Reversal of Fortune, At Close Range, Bicentennial Man, Fallen

Naren Shankar

writer Star Trek: The Next Generation, For All Mankind, Grimm, Farscape, The Outer Limits; executive producer/showrunner The Expanse, CSI

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Austin Club 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

A Conversation with Jennie Snyder Urman

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall

The showrunner behind Jane the Virgin and Matlock, Jennie Synder Urman has built a career around championing strong female characters with unbashed emotional sincerity. Join us as we learn about her process bringing cultural icons to life.

Moderators

Marcelena Campos Mayhorn

AFF moderator; writer DC's Legends of Tomorrow, Selena: The Series

Speakers

Jennie Snyder Urman

showrunner and executive producer Matlock, Jane the Virgin

Jennie Snyder Urman developed and Executive Produced the CW's Golden-Globe nominated “Jane the Virgin.” The show has been honored with a Peabody Award, 3 TCA nominations, 6 Critics Choice nominations, 3 NAACP Image Award nominations, an MTV Movie & TV Awards nomination for Best... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

On Adapting The Piano Lesson: A Conversation with Virgil Williams

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

Adapted from the award-winning August Wilson play, The Piano Lesson explores a dark and complex family history entwined with the supernatural. Screenwriter Virgil Williams (Criminal Minds, Mudbound) joins us to dissect his creative process adapting the play into a feature.

Moderators

Casey Baron

AFF moderator; programmer, Tribeca Festival

Speakers

Virgil Williams

writer Mudbound, A Journal for Jordan, The Piano Lesson

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference, Playwriting Track

12:30pm CDT

On Challengers: A Conversation with Justin Kuritzkes

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Challengers took over theaters this summer with its tangled tale of friendship, lust, and competition. Join the film's writer as he walks us through his inspiration for the film, crafting complex character dynamics, and creating impossibly high stakes in a surprisingly grounded world.

Speakers

Justin Kuritzkes

writer Challengers, Queer

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Playwriting Track

12:30pm CDT

Personal Pitching Workshop

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room

Speakers

Jodi Hildebrand

Scripted Film and TV at Conde Nast, Vanity Fair, The New Yorker. Producer, Peter Rabbit and its sequel.

Anthony Sparks

showrunner/executive producer/writer Queen Sugar, Bel-Air, Mike, The Blacklist; Founder Creative Sparks Media

John J. Strauss

writer/executive producer Mozart in the Jungle, David Makes Man, There’s Something About Mary

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

The Nuts and Bolts of Development

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

Join these development executives to learn what they look for in a script, how they source and work with new voices, and how to get your script ready for production.

Speakers

Kyle Castellanet

Vice President, Development and Production – Echo Lake Entertainment

Kyle Castellanet is the VP of Development and Production at Echo Lake Entertainment. Kyle manages Echo Lake’s film and television slate which includes both domestic and international co-productions. A Colorado native, Kyle began his career at Paradigm Talent Agency after receiving... Read More →

Jade-Addon Hall

Vice President of Drama Development at 20th Television

Vanessa Johnston

Head of Television, Mandalay Entertainment

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

What Do You Want? The Key Ingredient for Your Story and Your Writing Life

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary

Learn how a character's wants become the driving story engine in your screenplay.

Speakers

Meg LeFauve

co-writer Pixar's Inside Out, writer Netflix’s My Father's Dragon, writer Pixar's The Good Dinosaur; co-story Captain Marvel; co-host The Screenwriting Life Podcast

Lorien McKenna

writer/showrunner Tab Time; story manager Brave, Inside Out, The Good Dinosaur; co-host The Screenwriting Life

Lorien McKenna is an Emmy-nominated and NAACP Image Award-winning writer/producer.Most recently, she was the showrunner for the Emmy-winning YouTube/Kids at Play preschool show TAB TIME. She’s written and developed for NBC, Hulu, Comedy Central, and Netflix. She adapted and will... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

Writing Across Mediums: Film, TV, and Video Games

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

Learn from writers who have worked on video games, television, and film, on how to adapt your writing to any given medium, the advantages or challenges created by form, and how to move between mediums for a longstanding writing career.

Moderators

Evan Narcisse

Senior Writer, Brass Lion Entertainment

Evan Narcisse is the Senior Writer at Brass Lion Entertainment. He's worked as a screenwriter, producer, and narrative design consultant in video games, comic books, film, and TV, often focusing on the intersection of blackness and pop culture. As a journalist and critic, he wrote... Read More →

Speakers

John August

co-host Scriptnotes; writer Frankenweenie, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Big Fish, Charlie’s Angels, Go

Jordan Mechner

creator Prince of Persia, The Last Express; author Replay, Templar, Monte Cristo

Jordan Mechner is an author, graphic novelist, screenwriter, and pioneer of cinematic storytelling in video games. He created Prince of Persia, one of the world's most beloved and enduring video game franchises, and wrote the first screenplay for Disney’s 2010 feature film adaptation... Read More →

Erica Harrell

producer Lopez vs Lopez ; writer Ultra Violet & Black Scorpion, Marvel's Voices Communidades, Happyland, Telltales Walking Dead: Michonne, Skybound's Walking Dead VR, Just Roll With It

After bonding over the fact that they were both raised in Florida by a Cuban mother and a red-state father, the writing team of Desirée Proctor & Erica Harrell went on to co-write a variety of projects including the NBC sitcom Lopez vs Lopez (Producers), single-cam dramedies like... Read More →

Desirée Proctor

writer and producer Lopez vs Lopez; writer Betch: A Sketch Show, The Walking Dead: A New Frontier (Telltale Games), The Walking Dead: Saints and Sinners (Skydance Interactive)

Desirée is a television, film, and interactive fiction writer who grew up in a multi-generational military family. She’s the bohemian black sheep, which her parents have finally accepted (or so they say).

Saturday October 26, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Video Game Track

3:00pm CDT

A Conversation with Marissa Jo Cerar

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall

Sit down with Emmy-nominated writer-producer Marissa Jo Cerar for a discussion about her career path, from writing on The Handmaid’s Tale to creating acclaimed series Black Cake and Women of the Movement. Learn about how she adapts history, novels, and her own personal experiences into stories that captivate an audience.?

Moderators

Casey Baron

AFF moderator; programmer, Tribeca Festival

Speakers

Marissa Jo Cerar

writer The Handmaid’s Tale, creator Women of the Movement, creator Black Cake

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

A Conversation with Robin Swicord

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

Central Presbyterian Church

Acclaimed playwright and screenwriter Robin Swicord will walk us through her incredible body of work, which includes celebrated films Little Women, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Memoirs of a Geisha, Practical Magic, and Matilda.

Moderators

Erin Hallagan Clare

AFF moderator; Founder, Story Parlor; former Creative Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Robin Swicord

2024 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Playwriting Track

3:00pm CDT

On The Last Of Us: A Conversation with Craig Mazin

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Join Emmy-winning creator and showrunner Craig Mazin as he sheds light on adapting a beloved video game into Emmy award-winning series The Last of Us. Explore the creative process that shifted this story from the console to the screen, brought iconic characters to life, and successfully balanced horror and humanity within an apocalyptic world.

Moderators

Harrison Glaser

AFF moderator; former Film Competitions Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Craig Mazin

co-host Scriptnotes; writer The Last of Us, Chernobyl, The Hangover: Parts II & III

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Video Game Track

3:00pm CDT

Script to Screen: Twisters

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

Screenwriter Mark L. Smith joins AFF to lend a behind-the-scenes look at the script that took the internet by storm – literally! Learn all about thrilling effective action sequences and creating conflict that pulls audiences to the edge of their seats.

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Executive Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Mark L. Smith

writer The Revenant, Twisters, Boys In The Boat, Midnight Sky, the upcoming Netflix series American Primeval and Untamed

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Six Square Industry Roundtables: The Art, Craft, and Business of Writing as a Career

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

Huston-Tillotson University

As part of AFF’s Uplifting Storytellers Initiative, AFF will host free Writers Conference programming within Six Square, Austin’s Black Cultural District. This event will be open to both Festival Badge holders and the general public to connect, cultivate, and celebrate BIPOC artists. The event will consist of an Industry Roundtable session and a live reading of the First 3 Pages for selected scripts. At the Roundtables, writers, managers, producers, and/or executives will speak openly about their experiences in the industry. Attendees will have the opportunity to personally interact with the panelists and ask directed questions about the art, craft, and business of working in film, television, and new media. Transportation will be provided from the Festival headquarters at the Omni Austin Hotel Downtown to Huston Tillitson University. Buses will pick up for the Roundtable session outside of the hotel.

Speakers

Liz Kelly

Director of Creative Talent Development at Disney

Jameel Saleem

Writer, Producer (South Park, Bob's Burgers, Disenchantment)

Rebecca Murga

writer ABC's WILL TRENT, Apple TV's SWAGGER, and Director for Veterans in Media & Entertainment

Raamla Mohamed

writer/co-executive producer Little Fires Everywhere

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Raamla Mohamed is the Creator and Showrunner/Executive Producer for Onyx Collective’s first scripted drama series, “Reasonable Doubt,” in conjunction with ABC Signature. The hit drama is currently in production on season two. Raamla signed her... Read More →

Saeed Crumpler

writer Flatbush Misdemeanors(Season 2) and First-Look deal with Sony TV

Saeed Crumpler was a fellow in the 2021 Nickelodeon Writing Program, he most recently signed a first-look deal with SONY TV. Saeed’s been staffed on FLATBUSH MISDEMEANORS for Showtime. He consulted on BLINDSPOTTING for STARZ, working closely with Rafael Casal and Daveed Diggs. Also... Read More →

Corey Simon

writer Killer Beat, National Security, Dark Angel

Corey Simon is a passionate and accomplished Executive Vice President/Talent Manager at Cultivate Entertainment Partners. With a bachelor's degree in business management from the University of Phoenix in Arlington, Tx, Corey has established himself as a driving force in the entertainment... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Huston-Tillotson University 900 Chicon St, Austin, TX 78702, USA

Conference

3:00pm CDT

The Art of Research

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

Discover how doing your research can make a script shine. Delving deep into your topic will help you to create a richly detailed world that captures your unique perspective, captivates your audience and brings your characters to life.

Moderators

R.B. Brenner

AFF moderator; Lecturer, Stanford University

Speakers

Joe Forte

writer Firewall; director The Man Who Saved Ben-Hur

Joe Forte is the creator and writer of Firewall (2006) which stars Harrison Ford, Paul Bettany and Virginia Madsen and the director of the documentary The Man Who Saved Ben-Hur (2015) which premiered at the Hot Springs Film Festival and streams on Amazon. He is adapting the comic... Read More →

Jovan Robinson

writer For All Mankind, Made For Love, Secret Invasion

Jovan Robinson is a writer-producer and Marine Corps veteran originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Jovan participated in the CBS writers mentoring program, the inaugural Rideback TV Incubator, and the Writers Guild's Veterans Writing Project. Recent credits include the upcoming fifth... Read More →

Jenna Milly

writer/executive producer The Fabulous Four, Golden Arm; journalist, CNN, The Los Angeles Times, Entertainment Weekly

Writer/EP of feature films The Fabulous Four and Golden Arm and journalist who’s written for CNN, The Los Angeles Times and Entertainment Weekly.

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Wearing Multiple Hats: Writing and Producing

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

Heading a creative project means being able to pivot from job to job, whether it's directing, writing, or producing. In filmmaking, no job is isolated from the rest. Hear from filmmaking veterans Scott Rosenberg (writer-turned-producer) and Jeffrey Reiner (TV producer-turned-film writer) about the importance of creative flexibility.

Speakers

Scott Rosenberg

writer Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle, Venom, Con Air, Beautiful Girls

Jeffrey Reiner

writer/director Lake George; producer Friday Night Lights, Fargo, Homeland, The Affair

JEFFREY REINER - Director/Producer Jeffrey is an award-winning film and television director and executive producer with his notable credits including the iconic Friday Night Lights, Fargo, Homeland, and The Affair. He has been awarded a Golden Globe, a Peabody, and multiple American... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

4:15pm CDT

First 3 Pages, Live! at Six Square

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:15pm - 5:30pm CDT

Huston-Tillotson University

As part of AFF’s Uplifting Storytellers Initiative, AFF will host free Writers Conference programming within Six Square, Austin’s Black Cultural District. This event will be open to both Festival Badge holders and the general public to connect, cultivate, and celebrate BIPOC artists. At the First 3 Pages reading, selected writers will have their work read aloud by working actors and will receive notes from attending panelists. Transportation will be provided from the Festival headquarters at the Omni Austin Hotel Downtown to Huston Tillitson University. Buses will pick up for the First 3 Pages Live Script Reading outside of the hotel.

Speakers

Liz Kelly

Director of Creative Talent Development at Disney

Jameel Saleem

Writer, Producer (South Park, Bob's Burgers, Disenchantment)

Rebecca Murga

writer ABC's WILL TRENT, Apple TV's SWAGGER, and Director for Veterans in Media & Entertainment

Raamla Mohamed

writer/co-executive producer Little Fires Everywhere

Saeed Crumpler

writer Flatbush Misdemeanors(Season 2) and First-Look deal with Sony TV

Corey Simon

writer Killer Beat, National Security, Dark Angel

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:15pm - 5:30pm CDT
Huston-Tillotson University 900 Chicon St, Austin, TX 78702, USA

Conference

4:45pm CDT

A Conversation with Ronald D. Moore

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT

Central Presbyterian Church

Through Battlestar Galactica, Star Trek, Outlander, and For All Mankind, Ronald D. Moore has brought audiences along on journeys beyond our world. Join this year's Outstanding Television Writer awardee for a glimpse into his inspiration, creative process, and incomparable career path.

Moderators

Harrison Glaser

AFF moderator; former Film Competitions Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Ronald D. Moore

2024 Recipient of Outstanding the Television Writer Award

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

4:45pm CDT

Rejection: Saying Yes To All That No

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall

Join the four friends (minus one because he's in production) who brought you the Failure, Inner Critic, and Mistakes panels of years past for an honest, off-the record conversation about everyone's constant companion: rejection. A frank discussion of this bottomless resource of the industry and all the feelings it brings.

Speakers

Pamela Ribon

writer My Year of Dicks, Moana, Ralph Breaks the Internet

Christina Hodson

writer The Flash, Bumblebee, Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey

Jason Headley

writer Pixar's Lightyear and Onward; writer/director A Bad Idea Gone Wrong

Jason Headley co-wrote Pixar’s LIGHTYEAR and ONWARD and wrote and directed the SXSW Special Jury Prize-winning feature A BAD IDEA GONE WRONG. His short films—including the viral videos IT’S NOT ABOUT THE NAIL and F*CK THAT: AN HONEST MEDITATION—have been featured at Banksy's... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Bethel Hall 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

4:45pm CDT

State of the Comedy Industry presented by Your Mom's House Studios

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT

St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary

Join us for this in-depth discussion about the evolving state of comedy. Panelists will analyze the comedic tone they strive for, the lack of comedy features and sitcoms in the marketplace, and their best advice on how to navigate the genre's challenges and opportunities.

Moderators

Ryan P. Hall

AFF moderator

Speakers

Jeremy Konner

head writer Untitled Tom Segura Show; co-creator Drunk History; co-creator Waffles and Mochi

Molly Mandel

manager, Mosaic

Tom Segura

comedian Sledgehammer, Ball Hog. Disgraceful, Completely Normal, Mostly Stories; co-founder YMH Studios

Tom Segura is a comedian originally from Cincinnati, Ohio. Well known for his Netflix specials Sledgehammer, Ball Hog, Disgraceful, Completely Normal, and Mostly Stories, Segura has also made feature film appearances that include Instant Family, Countdown, Flinch, and The Opening... Read More →

Sponsors

Your Mom's House Studios

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

4:45pm CDT

The Game Writers' Toolkit

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room

Learn how to apply your storytelling skills to the video game writing industry. Apply your dialogue chops to emergent dialogue variantions, your story mapping skills to branching narratives, and your character development knowledge to align player and character desires.

Speakers

Shanon Ingles

writer and narrative designer Judas, Marvel’s Midnight Suns, God of War: Ragnarok, Batman: The Enemy Within, Batman: A Telltale Series; BAFTA member

Stephan Bugaj

Chief Creative Officer of Genvid Entertainment (SILENT HILL: Ascension, DC Heroes United); formerly of DJ2 Entertainment, Hanson Robotics, Telltale Games, and Pixar

As Genvid’s chief creative officer Stephan Bugaj brings a wealth of past creative and technical direction experience, including as CCO of DJ2 Entertainment, the Hollywood company behind the Sonic the Hedgehog movie, forthcoming Tomb Raider anime, and more. Stephan has held senior... Read More →

Evan Narcisse

Senior Writer, Brass Lion Entertainment

Westin Lee

writer Secret Project for Dying Light 2; narrative designer Just Cause Mobile

Westin Lee is a games writer, screenwriter, and author based in Los Angeles. He transitioned into games in 2021 and has worked on franchises like Dying Light, Just Cause, and others in the sci-fi, fantasy, and horror space. A scrappy urban adventurer from the Houston suburbs, he studied... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference, Video Game Track

4:45pm CDT

The Screenwriting Life, Live!

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Come see co-hosts Meg LeFauve (Inside Out 2, Captain Marvel) and Lorien McKenna (Up, Ratatouille) for a live recording of their writing podcast, The Screenwriting Life.

Speakers

Meg LeFauve

co-writer Pixar's Inside Out, writer Netflix’s My Father's Dragon, writer Pixar's The Good Dinosaur; co-story Captain Marvel; co-host The Screenwriting Life Podcast

Lorien McKenna

writer/showrunner Tab Time; story manager Brave, Inside Out, The Good Dinosaur; co-host The Screenwriting Life

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

4:45pm CDT

The Writer-Manager Relationship Presented by Lit Entertainment

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

Join this writer-manager duo as they discuss the invaluable benefits of their enduring partnership. Learn how to find the right manager for you, how to navigate that essential relationship, and how their collaborative approach has helped them to overcome challenges and achieve remarkable success.

Moderators

Linnea Tony

Partner & Co-Head of Entertainment, Underscore Talent

Linnea is a Partner at Underscore Talent, and co-head of Entertainment, where she oversees a team of managers and roster of talent. Underscore Talent is a 360 management company that focuses across all areas of media. With expertise in the worlds of storytelling, producing and talent... Read More →

Speakers

Justin Marks

2024 Recipient of the Writer’s Writer Award

Adam Kolbrenner

Founder, Lit Entertainment Group

Sponsors

Lit Entertainment

Saturday October 26, 2024 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00pm CDT

UCLA Storybreak Live!

Saturday October 26, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Come experience the controlled chaos of a writer's room in person, led by UCLA's Jill Goldsmith. A group of panelists will break a pilot live, with no prior knowledge of the story, and have it (hopefully) whipped into a pitchable state before the panel ends. One random Second Rounder in attendance will be chosen to participate.

Speakers

Noah Harpster

Micah Fitzerman-Blue

Micah Cyrus

producer, All American

Ronald D. Moore

2024 Recipient of Outstanding the Television Writer Award

Gursimran Sandhu

writer Fallout (Amazon), Game of Thrones (HBO), Star Wars: The Bad Batch (Disney+), Expats (Amazon)

Shane Black

writer/director The Predator, The Nice Guys, Iron Man 3, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang; writer Lethal Weapon, Last Action Hero, The Last Boy Scout, The Long Kiss Goodnight

Benji Samit

co-writer Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, Pokemon Detective Pikachu; co-showrunner LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy

Dan Hernandez

co-writer Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, Pokemon Detective Pikachu; co-showrunner LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy

Jill Goldsmith

writer/producer Law & Order, The Practice, Boston Legal, Ally McBeal, NYPD Blue

JILL GOLDSMITH is a writer and producer for television, with credits on many Emmy-winning series, including NYPD Blue, The Practice, Ally McBeal, Law & Order, Boston Legal, and also Rizzoli & Isles. She was previously the Showrunner and Executive Producer for a one-hour drama in development... Read More →

Sponsors

UCLA Professional Programs

Saturday October 26, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

11:30am CDT

Get the Greenlight: Financing Your Film

Sunday October 27, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Join Glen Basner, CEO of FilmNation, and moderator and filmmaker Jeff Nichols as they delve into the business side of filmmaking. Learn how producers and executives assess a script to gauge their own financial investment, how to evaluate your own script from their perspective, and how to meet market demands without compromising your vision.

Moderators

Jeff Nichols

AFF Moderator

Jeff Nichols is an acclaimed writer and director who hails from Little Rock, Arkansas. In addition to two nominations for the prestigious Palme d’Or, Nichols has won three awards at the Cannes Film Festival. His critically-acclaimed feature, LOVING, received four Critics’ Choice... Read More →

Speakers

Glen Basner

Chief Executive Officer, FilmNation Entertainment

Glen Basner is founder and Chief Executive Officer of FilmNation Entertainment, a leading independent entertainment company that produces, finances and distributes award-winning films, television series, podcasts and theater productions that combine strong creative voices and global... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

11:30am CDT

On Worldbuilding: How to Orient Your Audience for Sonic Storytelling

Sunday October 27, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

We're bringing together this celebrated group of narrative fiction podcast writers to discuss how to immerse your audience in a brand new world using only audio cues.

Moderators

Sarah Rhea Werner

AFF moderator; podcast creator Girl In Space, Write Now

Speakers

Pia Wilson

writer of the Webby Award-winning fiction podcast If I Go Missing The Witches Did It; tv writer: Genius: Aretha, Sacrifice; playwright: Sundance fellow, and member of The Public Theater’s 2008 Emerging Writers Group

Pia Wilson wrote the audio component in the Harriet Tubman Monument in Newark, New Jersey, performed by Queen Latifah. The audio - which won a 2024 Anthem Award - can be found on Audible as Monumental: Harriet Tubman and Newark's Liberation Movement. Pia is also a 2024 Johnny Mercer... Read More →

Brian Siegele

writer/producer Sightings, Black Box

Brian Siegele is a Colorado and Los Angeles-based writer and producer for film, television and audio. A graduate of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, he is a former AFF Screenplay Winner (2013), Podcast Finalist (2019), and Screenwriter to Watch (2022). Though he began his career... Read More →

Gabriel Urbina

creator Wolf 359, co-creator Zero Hours, Unseen, Time:Bombs

Gabriel Urbina is a Costa Rican-American writer and director. He has been writing and directing audio fiction professionally since 2014 and is best known as the creator of the science fiction cult classic podcast Wolf 359. He is also the co-creator of the comedy thriller Time:Bombs... Read More →

Tessa Bartholomew

co-creator/director Something Strange is Happening (Official Tribeca Selection) ; writer/director 'Adobo' You Feeling This for IHeartRadio; actor Young and the Restless, Good Girls, NCIS:LA

Tessa Bartholomew is a Filipino-American writer, director, actor, producer, audiophile, and horror film fanatic living in her hometown of Los Angeles. Her on-camera work can be seen in episodes of The Young & The Restless, Good Girls, and NCIS:LA. For several years, she has served... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Podcast Track

11:30am CDT

The Ins and Outs of Overall Deals

Sunday October 27, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

A coveted agreement between writer and studio, the overall deal has pros and cons for both sides of the equation. Hear from writers with overall deals on how to best navigate this relationship and its consequences.

Speakers

Tanya Saracho

creator & showrunner Vida, Founder of Ignition Lab & Untitled Latinx Project

Saeed Crumpler

writer Flatbush Misdemeanors(Season 2) and First-Look deal with Sony TV

Anthony Sparks

showrunner/executive producer/writer Queen Sugar, Bel-Air, Mike, The Blacklist; Founder Creative Sparks Media

Sunday October 27, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

11:30am CDT

What Managers Want

Sunday October 27, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

Join us to hear literary managers discuss how they evaluate potential new clients, what attracts their attention in a script, and how they help clients to reach their career goals.

Speakers

Glenn Cockburn

President/Literary Agent, Meridian Artists

Glenn Cockburn is the founder of Meridian Artists. Along with the rest of the Meridian Artists team, Glenn currently represents a select roster of some of Canada’s most talented writers, directors and producers.Glenn’s career started in 1996 when he began working as script reader... Read More →

Andrea Dimity

producer/literary manager

Andrea Dimity is a highly accomplished producer and literary manager renowned for her expertise in the film industry. She notably served as executive producer on "Kandahar," a groundbreaking high-budget US feature shot in Saudi Arabia and starring the esteemed Gerard Butler. Produced... Read More →

Jason Lubin

Literary Manager/Producer, First Story Entertainment

Jason Lubin is a manager-producer and the principal at First Story Entertainment, which he founded in 2018. The lit management company represents a diverse roster of talented writers and directors with fresh voices in all genres for Film and TV. The company’s clients have been staffed... Read More →

Corey Simon

writer Killer Beat, National Security, Dark Angel

Sunday October 27, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:15pm CDT

Art of Collaboration: The Writer-Executive Relationship

Sunday October 27, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

Join showrunner Annie Weisman and studio executive Kenny Tsai (SVP, Current Programming, UCP) for an insightful discussion about the dynamic partnership that helps drive successful TV storytelling. They’ll dive deep into the makings of season two of Based on a True Story and share the essential ingredients for building a collaborative writer-executive relationship, from fostering trust and open communication to embracing creative risks.

Speakers

Kenny Tsai

Senior Vice President, Current Programming, UCP

Kenny Tsai is Senior Vice President of Current Programming for UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group. In this role, he manages day-to-day operations for the studio’s award-winning slate of current series across a variety of cable and streaming platforms. He reports to Rebecca... Read More →

Annie Weisman

showrunner Imperfect Women, Based on a True Story; creator/writer/executive producer Physical; producer Desperate Housewives, Surburgatory

Annie Weisman is currently showrunning the limited series IMPERFECT WOMEN at Apple TV+ with 20th Television, starring Elisabeth Moss and Kerry Washington. She is the creator, writer, and executive producer of the Emmy-nominated half-hour dark comedy PHYSICAL, which aired its third... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:15pm CDT

From Stage to Screen

Sunday October 27, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

Learning how to write for the theater brings distinct advantages to the screen: compelling dialogue, strong pacing, and well-crafted characters. Come hear from panelists who have worked in both mediums and learn what one can teach you about the other.

Moderators

Samantha Levine

AFF moderator

Born and raised in the Chicagoland area, Samantha Levine moved to Austin to attend the University of Texas at Austin. She graduated in 2009 with a BA in Theatre & Dance, concentration in Radio, Television and Film. Samantha started as an intern at Austin Film Festival in 2013 and... Read More →

Speakers

Pia Wilson

Susan Soon He Stanton

writer/producer Succession, Dead Ringers

Jason Neulander

writer/playwright/filmmaker The Intergalactic Nemesis, Fugitive Dreams

Jason Neulander is an award-winning author, filmmaker, and theater artist based in Austin, Texas. Neulander received his BA and MA in theater from Brown University. He founded and was the artistic director of Austin’s Salvage Vanguard Theater from 1994 to 2008. Over his tenure he... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference, Playwriting Track

1:15pm CDT

Indie Film Track: The Filmmaker's Team

Sunday October 27, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room

Learn how to build creative partnerships to make the journey from pre-production to post as seamless as possible.

Sunday October 27, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:15pm CDT

On The Simpsons: A Conversation with Matt Selman

Sunday October 27, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

Walk through Springfield with Emmy-winner Matt Selman, show-runner of this iconic 36-Season comedy institution. Get a glimpse inside the writers room, learn how to keep characters and ideas fresh, and see the step-by-step process by which a story idea becomes a fully-animated Simpsons episode.

Moderators

Harrison Glaser

AFF moderator; former Film Competitions Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Matt Selman

showrunner/executive producer The Simpsons

Sunday October 27, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

1:15pm CDT

Script to Screen: Battlestar Galactica

Sunday October 27, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

Science fiction epic Battlestar Galactica stunned audiences with its fresh take on the original subject matter, and the celebrated series still endures today. Join creator and writer Ronald D. Moore for an inside look at its journey from concept to completion.

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Executive Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Ronald D. Moore

2024 Recipient of Outstanding the Television Writer Award

Sunday October 27, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Beyond the Badge

Sunday October 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room

Join us for some final advice from industry veterans on how to leverage all you've learned at the Conference into true career momentum.

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Executive Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Lauren Shuler Donner

producer X-Men franchise, Pretty in Pink, Free Willy, You’ve Got Mail, She’s The Man, and The Secret Life of Bees

Lauren Shuler Donner is a renowned and prolific film, TV, and theater producer. She has produced 30 movies over four decades including the X-Men franchise, Pretty in Pink, Free Willy, You’ve Got Mail, She’s The Man, and The Secret Life of Bees. She has also been EP on seven tv... Read More →

Scott Rosenberg

writer Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle, Venom, Con Air, Beautiful Girls

Sunday October 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Closing Remarks

Sunday October 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom

After the whirlwind of panels, new friends, and loads of inspiration for your next project, join returning panelist Shane Black for a candid conversation on how to carry lessons and connections from the Conference into real life.

Speakers

Shane Black

writer/director The Predator, The Nice Guys, Iron Man 3, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang; writer Lethal Weapon, Last Action Hero, The Last Boy Scout, The Long Kiss Goodnight

Sunday October 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel Capital Ballroom 701 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

Conference

3:00pm CDT

On the Making of Everybody Still Hates Chris

Sunday October 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room

Sit down with the showrunner for this reboot of a live action sitcom! Learn how Sanjay Shah translated the heart and humor of the original series into an entirely fresh animated series.

Speakers

Sanjay Shah

showrunner/executive producer Everybody Still Hates Chris (Comedy Central/Paramount+)

Sanjay Shah is under an overall at CBS Studios and is the showrunner/executive producer of Everybody Still Hates Chris which he co-created with Chris Rock for Comedy Central/Paramount+. Prior to that, he was the co-showrunner/executive producer of Apple’s animated musical Central... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Pennybacker Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Personal Pitching Workshop

Sunday October 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room

Step into the boardroom without leaving the Festival! In this interactive experience, you can volunteer to pitch your project in front of your peers and a panel of industry leaders. Panelists will evaluate your answers, simulate a real life pitching experience, and give you real-time feedback on how to present yourself to studio executives. You will receive straightforward, valuable guidance on how to pivot during a presentation, pitch your personal logline, and answer unexpected questions.

Speakers

Liz Kelly

Director of Creative Talent Development at Disney

Chris Callison

Creative Executive at Starburns, Creative Executive Better Call Saul Presents Slippin' Jimmy, production coordinator SiR's John Redcorn, animationskoordinator Clark

Sean Collins-Smith

story editor, Chicago PD; Staff Writer, Michael Schur's Field of Dreams; AFF Winner, 2018

Sunday October 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Lamar Room 700 San Jacinto St, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

What Now?

Sunday October 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown Mansfield Room

Learn how to capitalize on everything you’ve learned and all the connections you’ve made this past weekend from two friends of the Festival.

Moderators

Conference

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