Austin (Tex.)

It’s a classic story framework. From the Bible to Star Wars to The Lego Movie, humans love a great tale of adventure. The Hero’s Journey, as codified by Joseph Campbell, has helped many a screenwriter structure a story. Join Christopher Vogler, author of The Writer’s Journey, as he examines the challenges and temptations of writing within this framework, how to heed the call to adventure, and the details that go into making the monomyth your own.

The making of a feature film is no small feat. As the saying goes, it takes a village. Learn who and what you need in your corner in order to make the journey from pre-production to post as seamless as possible.

Are you ready to give your best pitch? Get prepped to sell your script–and yourself!–and ensure your first pitch won’t be your last. Will you be in the select group that makes it through to the Pitch Competition Finale?

Hear from veteran producers regarding what they look for in a screenplay, the differences between producing for film and television or independent and studio projects, and the development of a story through execution. Panelists will discuss trends in the industry, how to take your project to the next level, and the edge your script needs to really stick.

Science fiction is the ultimate creative canvas—any world you can imagine is possible. But there's also a part where audiences can't help but wonder—could this really happen?Join this discussion with writers and scientists alike on balancing fiction with fact and what's required for viewers to truly suspend their disbelief so the appearance of truth is always within arm's reach. After all, the science fiction of today could very well be the science fact of tomorrow.

Composing an engaging story with clear characterization, dialogue, and structure is challenging when creating a feature film. Now imagine successfully placing these nuanced elements into a half-hour or less. You now understand the challenge of crafting the perfect short film script. To learn tips, tricks, and strategies for brewing the right storytelling potion, come hear from our panel of experienced short film filmmakers.

Join Snowpiercer co-writer Kelly Masterson as he dissects the story's journey from graphic novel to script-to-screen. Masterson will reference specific scenes from the film—with clips projected throughout—and discuss writing for a multinational audience, the writer/director relationship with Joon-ho Bong, writing through language barriers, the layered messages throughout the film.

Everyone's a critic – especially in show business. As a writer, It can be easy to get bogged down in readers' notes, but feedback is an essential part of improving your writing. If you're only looking for praise, you'll miss opportunities to improve your craft. Join panelists for an honest conversation on how to make criticism constructive, what to make of your notes, and how to keep moving forward.

A writer, a manager, and an attorney walk into a room. This isn't a joke; it's the future of your career. As a writer, it's important to have a team of people to back you up in your professional life. But who exactly do you need in your corner? How do you know what kind of representation or legal help is right for you? Join panelists as they discuss how to seek these people out and what you can expect from these relationships.

Welcome, Second Rounders and Semifinalists! New to the Conference? No problem. Join panelists who have previously advanced in the competition for the inside scoop on special programming, best practices among industry pros, and how to work your new status going forward.