Description:
The Screenwriters Lab is a five-day writers’ workshop that gives independent screenwriters the opportunity to work intensively on their feature film scripts with the support of established writers in an environment that focuses on the art and craft of screenwriting and creative risk taking. Through one-on-one story sessions with creative advisors, fellows engage in an artistically rigorous process that offers indispensable lessons in craft to facilitate the deep exploration needed to fully realize their material.
In light of COVID-19, the 2021 Screenwriters Lab will take place digitally on Sundance Co//ab.
Eligibility:
The Screenwriters Lab supports writers, writer/directors, and writer/director teams developing their first or second fiction feature film. If you have previously had more than one fiction feature produced, you are not eligible to apply. International projects must have a director attached.
Size:
12 projects are selected for the Screenwriters Lab.
Location:
Hosted digitally
Dates:
January 11–15, 2021
Cost:
The cost of airfare, accommodations, and meals for up to two participants per project is normally covered. (However, note that the 2021 Screenwriters Lab will be hosted digitally, so travel is not needed.) Beyond the application fee, there is no fee to participate.
In return for participation in a Screenwriters Lab, fellows are obligated to sign an agreement stipulating that (a) they will make a contribution to Sundance Institute of 0.25% of the portion of their film’s final budget that exceeds $1,000,000 (this number may increase to 0.5 or 0.75% through participation in a Directors and Screenwriters Lab and/or Institute-affiliated grant support exceeding $10,000), (b) Sundance Institute will receive 1% of 100% of the film’s net receipts, and (c) Sundance Institute will receive a credit line and logo placement in the film’s end titles.