Oh, screenwriting contests. Don't even get me started. I'll just say that yes, I found value in using contests, especially the ones with feedback, as a way to gauge my work when I was getting started in the screenwriting genre, to make sure I was on the right track and motivate me to keep writing and revising.
But not anymore. They are expensive, inaccessible to financially-struggling writers, which is unfair, and these days the big ones get thousands and even tens of thousands of submissions. So I got strategic and decided to start submitting my screenplays to film festivals, in particular small, indie festivals that prioritize excellence and community building. Bonus if they center on women and women's stories. I am honored to be an Official Selection in two festivals in October!
As an "Official Selection" to a festival you often get a free pass to the whole event-- you don't even have to "win" to win! The whole point of getting your work out there is to get out there, and what better way than to meet other filmmakers, writers, producers, multi-hyphenates, and film lovers, and get inspired and immersed in film for a few days at a festival.
I'll be participating in the 2024 Women's Independent Film and Television Festival, which runs online October 9-12, and includes panels, tools and resources for writers and filmmakers, as well as networking opportunities. Two of my feature screenplays were selected as Official Selections! Fingers crossed for the awards ceremony.
And I'm looking forward to attending the City of Angels Women's Film Festival in October, as an Official Selection with THE DRAGONS' CHOSEN screenplay and synopsis. I've already connected with a number of COAWFF writers and filmmakers through emails and social media, which helps to quell the inevitable social anxiety. See you on the red carpet!
Comments