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Thursday, October 24
 

11:30am CDT

Opening Remarks
Austin Film Festival welcomes you to its 26th annual celebration of storytelling through film, television, theatre, and new media. Bringing together industry icons, independent filmmakers, aspiring storytellers, and everyone in between. This year’s Festival will once again feature intimate discussions, workshops, premieres, retrospectives, parties, and countless networking opportunities. Join AFF staff and special guests for Opening Remarks to discover more about the week ahead and learn last-minute additions, schedule changes, and special announcements about this year’s Festival & Conference.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Ed Solomon

Ed Solomon

writer HBO’s Mosaic, Men in Black, Untitled Steven Soderbergh feature; co-writer Bill & Ted Face the Music, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Now You See Me 1 & 2, It's Garry Shandling's Show, Untitled David O Russell feature
When Bill & Ted Face the Music comes out in 2020, Ed Solomon will have had a major filmreleased in each of the last 5 decades, starting in 1989 with his (and co-writer Chris Matheson’s)first feature, Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. The 90’s saw Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Men... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

1:00pm CDT

A Conversation with Dave Kajganich
Join writer Dave Kajganich for a look at his career in the world of horror and adaptation, from his bold reimagining of the 1977 supernatural horror film Suspiria to his role as creator and showrunner of AMC’s horror anthology series The Terror.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Dave Kajganich

Dave Kajganich

creator/showrunner The Terror; writer/producer Suspiria, writer/executive producer A Bigger Splash; writer True Story
Dave is a screenwriter and producer in both television and features, having come to filmmaking from studying fiction writing at the University of Iowa Writers Workshop. He's most recently written an adaptation of Tim Winton's THE RIDERS for Ridley Scott, an adaptation of the YA novel... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

1:00pm CDT

First Three Pages, Live!
Join AFF for an afternoon of live readings featuring the first three pages of works-in-progress, forgotten screenplays, and a few other surprises.

This panel is co-presented by ColdTowne Theater.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Dave Buckman

Dave Buckman

The Second City, Boom Chicago, American Crime, Machete
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 →

Sponsors
avatar for Coldtowne Theater

Thursday October 24, 2019 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Victorian Balcony 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

1:00pm CDT

How to Work the Conference
The AFF Conference is a great place to mingle and learn – that person sitting next to you could be a life changing contact. Although the schedule can be intimidating, this panel featuring seasoned Festival attendees is here to help. Join the discussion on everything from networking to pitching to where the closest restroom can be found. Find out how to maximize your Badge and your time here at the Conference!

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Steven DeBose

Steven DeBose

Director of Script Competitions, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Zac Kish

Zac Kish

Staff Writer, Luma Pictures
Zac Kish grew up as a military brat, adventurously bouncing in and out of the country like a chubbier Johnny Quest, and now sits in a single dark room making stuff up and eating cheese balls, lit only by his dirty laptop screen and a second-place smile. Zac is currently on staff writing... Read More →
avatar for Marissa Tandon

Marissa Tandon

creator Super Ordinary, The Sword & The Stoner
Marissa Tandon is a writer, actor, and director based in Los Angeles. She is the writer and creator of the narrative fiction podcasts Super Ordinary and The Sword & The Stoner. She is the co-founder of Tandon Productions, which focuses on bringing new voices to the multi-media landscape... Read More →
avatar for Alison James

Alison James

writer/director Judas Collar; winner Best Short Film, Austin Film Festival 2018; director Outback Truckers
Alison James is an award-winning director and writer living between Perth, Western Australia and Los Angeles. Her short film Judas Collar won Best Short Film at the Austin Film Festival and St Kilda Film Festival, twice qualifying it for the Oscars in 2020.It premiered at the Sydney... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

1:00pm CDT

Indie Film Track: The Filmmakers Team
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.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Ashland Viscosi

Ashland Viscosi

moderator; Founder, Creatives Meet Business

Speakers
avatar for Melora Walters

Melora Walters

writer/director Drowning
Melora Walters was born to American parents in Saudi Arabia.She grew up there as well as Holland, Arkansas, and New York.In 2016 she began making her own films.She is also known as an actress, having worked with Paul Thomas Anderson,Ridley Scott, John McNaughton, Ruben Fleischer... Read More →
avatar for Daniel Cummings

Daniel Cummings

writer/producer/actor Man Camp
Born and raised in northern Wyoming, Daniel Cummings' first introduction to Hollywood was as an actor, appearing in various guest star roles on soaps and serial dramas, as well as voicing promos for CBS, FOX, TNT, NFL Network, and Disney Junior. A product of the University of Colorado... Read More →
avatar for Mark Wilson

Mark Wilson

director/producer Wade in the Water
MARK WILSON (DIRECTOR, PRODUCER) graduated from SCC Film School with a major in Film Production won "Best Picture" and "The Audience Choice Award" at The SCC Film Festival two years in a row, as well as "Best Documentary" at The Phoenix Film Festival. Mark is the Director-Producer... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, Indie Film Track

1:00pm CDT

Mistakes Were Made: Learning From Screw-Ups Past and Present
We all make mistakes, and in a business where one wrong move can land you ten steps back, learning how to move past those screw-ups is the name of the game. Join the four friends who brought you the Failure and Inner Critic panels of years past for an for an honest, off-the record conversation about making mistakes and learning to bounce back in a cut-throat industry that can be anything but forgiving.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Headley

Jason Headley

writer Pixar's Onward (2020), writer/director A Bad Idea Gone Wrong, It's Not About the Nail
Jason Headley is the co-writer of Pixar’s upcoming film “Onward.” He wrote and directed the feature film "A Bad Idea Gone Wrong" which won a Special Jury Prize at the 2017 SXSW Film Festival. His short films—including the viral videos "It's Not About the Nail" and "F*ck That... Read More →
avatar for Oren Uziel

Oren Uziel

writer/director Shimmer Lake; writer 22 Jump Street, Freaks of Nature, The Cloverfield Paradox
Oren Uziel wrote and directed, SHIMMER LAKE, which previously won an award at the Austin Film Festival Screenwriting Competition. His other credits include 22 JUMP STREET, THE CLOVERFIELD PARADOX and FREAKS OF NATURE. He’s currently writing the sequel to DETECTIVE PIKACHU as well... Read More →
avatar for Christina Hodson

Christina Hodson

writer Transformers: Bumblebee, Birds of Prey (2020)
Hodson first transitioned from development executive to screenwriter in 2012. Her first three spec scripts were featured on the Black List three years in a row, the most recent of which, The Eden Project, was a sci-fi action script that sold in a bidding war to Sony. This led to her... Read More →
avatar for Pamela Ribon

Pamela Ribon

writer Moana, Ralph Breaks The Internet; comic book writer Rick and Morty, My Boyfriend is a Bear

Thursday October 24, 2019 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

1:00pm CDT

On Writing Beverly Hills Cop: A Conversation with Daniel Petrie, Jr.
Join Heart of Film Awardee and writer, Daniel Petrie, Jr. for a closer look at his 1984 comedy classic Beverly Hills Cop. In this panel, Petrie will share his experience writing the box office smash hit starring Eddie Murphy that earned Petrie an Oscar nomination for best original screenplay.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Greg Garrett

Greg Garrett

moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Speakers
avatar for Daniel Petrie, Jr.

Daniel Petrie, Jr.

2019 Recipient of the Heart of Film Award
Daniel Petrie, Jr. is a partner in Enderby Entertainment, an independent film finance and production company, founded in 2006 by Petrie and producer Rick Dugdale.  In 1985, Petrie received an Academy Award® nomination for Best Original Screenplay for his first produced script, the... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Bethell Hall
  Conference

1:00pm CDT

The Writer/Manager Relationship
You hear it from everyone—finding representation is the key to opening the doors of Hollywood. So what should you be looking for in a manager, and what can you expect from that relationship once you’ve found one? Join screenwriter and former AFF winner Henry Jones alongside his literary manager Ryan Cunningham for an in-depth exploration of the writer/manager relationship and how to make the most of this working partnership.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Tim Albaugh

Tim Albaugh

moderator; Producer; Director, Hollins University Graduate Screenwriting Program, Co-Founder ProPath Screenwriting

Speakers
avatar for Henry Jones

Henry Jones

writer Jupiter's Legacy; 2016 Drama, Sci-Fi, and Enderby Entertainment Screenplay Award Recipient
Henry's screenplay, STATIC, won the Drama, Sci-Fi and Enderby Entertainment Awards at the 2016 Austin Film Festival – a feat never before achieved in the prestigious festival’s 20+ year history. He's gone on to find success in features and television as a writer and producer.He's... Read More →
avatar for Ryan Cunningham

Ryan Cunningham

Literary Manager, Anonymous Content; producer Slender Man
Ryan Cunningham is a literary manager and producer at Anonymous Content. Ryan began his career in physical production as a PA on several films and TV shows shooting in New Orleans while he attended Tulane University. After graduating, Ryan moved to Los Angeles where he worked in the... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

1:00pm CDT

WORK IN PROGRESS: Idea to Story
We believe it is not a writer’s level of talent that determines their success, but rather how they work with and manage that talent. In WORK IN PROGRESS, Ed Solomon and Max Borenstein (with special guests) will lead a question and answer workshop using the writing issues attendees are currently facing as a backdrop to discuss the real thing that separates the pros from the not-yet pros: the ability to assess, mine and cultivate one’s own unique gifts, and to keep them growing throughout a lifetime. Participants are requested to come prepared with questions on specific issues they are facing while moving from Idea to Story.

THIS IS AN EXTENDED PANEL THAT WILL END AT 3:00PM.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Max Borenstein

Max Borenstein

creator The Terror: Infamy, Untitled Showtime Lakers Project (2020, HBO), Untitled Game of Thrones Spinoff, Minority Report; writer: Godzilla (2014), Kong: Skull Island, Godzilla 2, Godzilla v. Kong (2020), What is Life Worth (2020)
Max Borenstein wrote the script for 2014’s blockbuster GODZILLA, as well as KONG: SKULL ISLAND, GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS (story), and the forthcoming GODZILLA V. KONG.His next film as writer and producer, the drama WHAT IS LIFE WORTH, based on Kenneth Feinberg's memoir of... Read More →
avatar for Ed Solomon

Ed Solomon

writer HBO’s Mosaic, Men in Black, Untitled Steven Soderbergh feature; co-writer Bill & Ted Face the Music, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Now You See Me 1 & 2, It's Garry Shandling's Show, Untitled David O Russell feature
When Bill & Ted Face the Music comes out in 2020, Ed Solomon will have had a major filmreleased in each of the last 5 decades, starting in 1989 with his (and co-writer Chris Matheson’s)first feature, Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. The 90’s saw Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Men... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 1:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

2:45pm CDT

A Conversation with Lulu Wang
Join us for an in-depth conversation with writer/director Lulu Wang. In this panel, Wang will discuss her career in film, from her first—indie rom-com Posthumous, to most recently writing and directing The Farewell, a compelling story about a Chinese family, who instead of telling their ailing grandmother about her own terminal illness, plan a wedding to say their final goodbyes.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Lulu Wang

Lulu Wang

writer/director The Farewell
With the unique ability to captivate audiences through her sincere storytelling, Chinese-American director Lulu Wang continues to establish herself as a writer and filmmaker to watch.Wang wrote and directed her second feature film THE FAREWELL, which A24 will release in July 2019... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

2:45pm CDT

Austin Pitch Prep
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?


Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Pamela Ribon

Pamela Ribon

writer Moana, Ralph Breaks The Internet; comic book writer Rick and Morty, My Boyfriend is a Bear

Thursday October 24, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Pitch

2:45pm CDT

Indie Film Track: The Documentary
Just like fiction writing, all good documentaries start with one thing—a strong subject with a compelling narrative. Join this panel of documentary filmmakers for a conversation on capturing strong, subject-driven stories from the world around us, and the research, preparation, and commitment to storytelling that goes into making a documentary film.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Greg Curtis

Greg Curtis

moderator; Former Editor of Texas Monthly

Speakers
avatar for John Langmore

John Langmore

co-director Cowboys
John Langmore’s relationship with the working cowboy traces back to his great-grandfather who was one of Colonel Teddy Roosevelt’s original Rough Riders. His father, Bank Langmore, published The Cowboy in 1975 and is considered one of the pioneers of contemporary western photography.Beginning... Read More →
avatar for Stacey Tenenbaum

Stacey Tenenbaum

director Pipe Dreams
Stacey Tenenbaum is an award-winning creative producer and director.  In 2014 she founded H2L Productions, a boutique documentary film production company specializing in crafting character driven stories which are shot internationally.  H2L Productions’ first documentary feature Shiners... Read More →
avatar for Katie Hyde

Katie Hyde

founder, Indie City Films; director Crazy Ex-Girlfriend OMG I Think It's Over, All Choked Up; producer Jennifer 42, Before/During/After, Mount Joy
Katie Hyde is a director/producer/DP and runs Indie City Films, a production company in Brooklyn. She creates video content for platforms and brands such as the NY Post, UK Sunday Times, Refinery29, Domino Magazine, Creative Mornings and others. Katie is currently in production with... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Indie Film Track

2:45pm CDT

Inside Submissions: What Gets Noticed (Good AND Bad) and Why 
Join this conversation on how scripts read when submitted to competitions, festivals, and writing programs. From scripts with great ideas but weak execution, to the reverse, panelists will discuss how to identify your strengths and weaknesses as a writer, and how to present your story in its best possible light.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Speakers
avatar for Jenna Bond

Jenna Bond

Manager of Outreach & Member Services, WGAE
Jenna Bond leads the Indie, Documentary and New Media Caucuses for the WGA East, and also manages the Made in NY Writers Room, an initiative to increase diversity in television funded by the New York Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment. Jenna works with independent screenwriters... Read More →
avatar for Matt Dy

Matt Dy

Manager, Lit Entertainment Group; Former Director of Script Competitions, Austin Film Festival
avatar for Rebecca Windsor

Rebecca Windsor

Director, Warner Bros. Television Workshop
Rebecca Windsor is the Director of the Warner Bros. Television Workshop, the premier writing and directing program for professionals looking to start and/or further their careers in television.  She also oversees the Fresh Ink Initiative, focusing on finding emerging talent to develop... Read More →
avatar for Nitza Wilon

Nitza Wilon

co-founder, The Writers Lab
Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon formed WIST (Women in the Script Trade) to work with exceptional women screenwriters, develop promising projects for production, and to build and manage script development labs. Kaiden and Wilon are co-founders and directors of The Writers Lab for... Read More →
avatar for Elizabeth Kaiden

Elizabeth Kaiden

co-founder, The Writers Lab
Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon formed WIST (Women in the Script Trade) to work with exceptional women screenwriters, develop promising projects for production, and to build and manage script development labs. Kaiden and Wilon are co-founders and directors of The Writers Lab for... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Bethell Hall
  Conference

2:45pm CDT

Inside the Development Process
What do production companies look for when taking on new projects in film and television, and how are scripts selected for development? Join the Josephson Entertainment team for a behind the scenes look into the development and production process and what executives look for in the writers they choose to support.
Moderators
avatar for Ryan P. Hall

Ryan P. Hall

Head of Development, Rooster Teeth; executive producer Blood Fest, Lazer Team 2, Immerson: Shark Week

Speakers
avatar for D. Matt Geller

D. Matt Geller

Executive Vice President/Head of Features, Josephson Entertainment
In 2018, D. Matt Geller joined veteran producer Barry Josephson at Josephson Entertainment. He is the company’s Executive Vice President, overseeing the film division. Previously, Geller’s producing credits included the feature film REMEMBER.  It starred Academy Award winners... Read More →
avatar for Dan Tischler

Dan Tischler

Senior Vice President/Head of TV, Josephson Entertainment
Dan is an established entertainment executive and creative producer with nearly 20 years of experience creating dynamic content for TV and digital platforms. In 2018, he joined Josephson Entertainment as Senior Vice President where he leads the company’s TV initiatives across broadcast... Read More →
avatar for Kelsi Fleming

Kelsi Fleming

Creative Executive, Josephson Entertainment
Kelsi Fleming currently works as a Creative Executive 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 →
avatar for Christian Bersani

Christian Bersani

Creative Executive, Josephson Entertainment
Christian Bersani joined Josephson Entertainment in 2018 as Creative Executive of Film and Television; he currently helps to identify, develop, and produce projects for Josephson’s scripted feature and TV slates. Previously, Bersani served as Manager of Scripted Programming at Thinkfactory... Read More →

Thursday October 24, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Victorian Balcony 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

2:45pm CDT

The HartChart: Eighth Grade
Come experience the famous “HartChart” first-hand. James V. Hart (Hook, Contact, Bram Stoker’s Dracula) will explore how to develop characters and stories by getting to the “heart” of the script. Using Bo Burnham’s award-winning Eighth Grade as a case study, join this breakdown of establishing main character desires, charting the progress toward their goals, and creating a successful resolution all while keeping the script full of thrills. Using the HartChart’s guidelines for implementing craft, learn how to embrace structure as a friend, rather than an enemy, and how to flesh out ideas for the screen.

THIS IS AN EXTENDED PANEL THAT WILL END AT 4:15PM

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for James V. Hart

James V. Hart

creator/executive producer The Hot Zone; writer Hook, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Contact, Tuck Everlasting, Muppet Treasure Island, August Rush, Epic, Crossbones; Creator, HartChart
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, 2019 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference
 
Friday, October 25
 

9:00am CDT

We Are Austin Live Show
Creators, filmmakers, panels, films, parties and more! We are excited to welcome We Are Austin on Friday, October 25 for a live show at Stephen F's Bar! Be a member of the LIVE audience as Trevor Scott & Taylor Ellison interview special guests: Hannah Leder (writer/director The Planters), Zak Hilditch (writer/director Rattlesnake), and Jon Cozart (filmmaker/musician/content creator PAINT) from the Festival & Conference!

Open to all badge levels!
There will be a bag check since the show is live!
Sponsors
avatar for We Are Austin


Friday October 25, 2019 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Stephen F's Bar 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, Panel

9:00am CDT

Dynamic Duos: Collaboration & Conflict
Writing is often considered a solo sport, but these writing partners prove that sometimes your best work is done as a team. Panelist duos will talk about their process for collaborative writing, including sharing writing duties, reconciling creative differences, and working as a team to develop a shared voice and vision for your story.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Courtenay Hameister

Courtenay Hameister

moderator; host PRI's Live Wire 2003-2013; co-writer The Benefits of Gusbandry; author Okay Fine Whatever: The Year I Went From Being Afraid of Everything to Only Being Afraid of Most Things

Speakers
avatar for Julie Benson

Julie Benson

writer Wu Assassins, The 100, DC Comics Batgirl, Birds of Prey comic, Green Arrow comic; co-producer Untitled Star Trek Animated Series for Nickelodeon
Shawna and Julie are a sister writing team who not only share the same birthday (three years apart), but also a love of genre TV/Film and Comics. That love inspired their move from the cornfields of Illinois to sunny Los Angeles to pursue careers in screenwriting. The Benson Sisters... Read More →
avatar for Shawna Benson

Shawna Benson

writer/co-producer Wu Assassins, The 100; writer DC's Batgirl, Birds of Prey comic, Green Arrow comic; co-producer Untitled Star Trek Animated Series for Nickelodeon
Shawna and Julie are a sister writing team who not only share the same birthday (three years apart), but also a love of genre TV/Film and Comics. That love inspired their move from the cornfields of Illinois to sunny Los Angeles to pursue careers in screenwriting. The Benson Sisters... Read More →
avatar for Andrew Logan

Andrew Logan

writer/executive producer Chappaquiddick
Andrew Logan is a writer and producer based in Austin, TX. He was named one of Variety’s 10 Screenwriters to Watch in 2017 along with his writing partner, Taylor Allen. Together they were listed on the 2015 Black List for the screenplay they wrote called Chappaquiddick, a political... Read More →
avatar for Taylor Allen

Taylor Allen

writer/executive producer Chappaquiddick; editor The Simpsons
Taylor Allen is a writer and an editor living in lovely Los Angeles, California. His credits include the 2018 film Chappaquiddick, which he co-wrote and executive produced alongside his writing and producing partner Andrew Logan. The script earned them a spot on The Black List (and... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

Indie Film Track: Short Film Storytelling
Composing an engaging story with clear characterization, dialogue, and structure is challenging enough when creating a feature film—imagine successfully placing these nuanced elements into a half-hour or less! To learn tips, tricks, and strategies for brewing the right storytelling potion, come hear from our panel of experienced short-film filmmakers.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Miguel Alvarez

Speakers
avatar for Jason Mirch

Jason Mirch

Producer, Director of Script Services, Stage 32
Jason Mirch is a feature film, television, branded entertainment, and digital content producer and executive with over 15 years of experience. Most recently, he produced a 3D animated feature film starring Jacob Tremblay, Christopher Lloyd, Mel Brooks, Kenan Thompson, and Carol Kane.Mirch... Read More →
avatar for Kai Hasson

Kai Hasson

co-writer/director Robu
Kai Hasson is a director and writer living in Los Angeles, California. His short film ROBU stars Emmy-winner Jharrel Jerome and was named Best Film in the Tokyo Cinematic Category at the ShortsShorts Film Festival in Japan. Kai is the Co-Founder of Portal A, an award-winning studio... Read More →
avatar for Dan Kinnane

Dan Kinnane

writer/editor/cinematographer Rigor Mortis
Dan Kinnane is a writer, editor, and cinematographer. His work includes NBC’s The Next Olympic Hopeful. He and his seven brothers run an independent film company together. Their latest short film, Rigor Mortis is premiering at the 26th Annual Austin Film Festival.
avatar for Charlotte Benbeniste

Charlotte Benbeniste

writer/director Bye Bye Body
Charlotte Benbeniste is a writer and director from Los Angeles. As a first generation American, she grew up watching Westerns and Iranian cinema with her family, and fell in love with storytelling. She received her BA in Written Arts from Bard College in 2011, and worked in the AD... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Bethell Hall
  Conference, Indie Film Track

9:00am CDT

Making a TV Show
What does it take to get your get your TV show off the ground and into production? Join the co-creators of the upcoming NBC series Lincoln, Mark Bianculli and VJ Boyd, for a conversation on producing their first television series and the day-to-day duties of creators, ranging from writing and producing a successful pilot - to staffing a writers room.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Spiro Skentzos

Spiro Skentzos

moderator; Co-Chair, WGA's LGBTQ+ Writers Committee; Creator, "Intro To TV Writing" Panel, San Diego Comic Con; co-creator/co-writer Chadam; writer Grimm, Arrow
Growing up speaking Spanish, Greek and English at home, Spiro developed an early interest in language, which inspired him to write. His first foray into screenwriting was as a young boy, when he wrote a script for his Star Wars figures where they battled his sister’s giant, menacing... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Mark Bianculli

Mark Bianculli

writer/executive producer Lincoln; consulting producer The Hunt
Mark Bianculli is a writer and producer whose credits include the feature film, THE GOOD NEIGHBOR, starring James Caan, four produced pilots and two Blacklist sceenplays, SALEM VILLAGE (2015) and INFIDELS (2018). Mark has also sold feature scripts to various studios including Paramount... Read More →
avatar for VJ Boyd

VJ Boyd

writer/producer S.W.A.T., Justified
VJ Boyd has written for Justified and SWAT and is the author of the comic book series NIGHT MOVES for IDW. He is currently producing a pilot for NBC based on THE BONE COLLECTOR books and feature film.

Friday October 25, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Central Presbyterian Church, Sanctuary 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

Morning Improv
Back by popular demand, we're offering morning improv workshops during the Conference to help you loosen up before embarking on each day’s journey. Learn new techniques for pitching your story ideas and say “yes, and” to new skills that will help you market yourself and your script during the Festival.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Dave Buckman

Dave Buckman

The Second City, Boom Chicago, American Crime, Machete
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 →

Sponsors
avatar for Coldtowne Theater

Friday October 25, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Victorian Balcony 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

Writing in a Winter Wonderland
From Christmas classics to modern holiday hits, the magic of storytelling seems to be even jollier during the holiday season. Hear from the writers behind some of your favorite Christmas capers for their advice on setting your story during the most wonderful time of the year.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Fabienne Harford

Speakers
avatar for David Berenbaum

David Berenbaum

writer Elf, The Haunted Mansion, The Spiderwick Chronicles
DAVID BERENBAUM is a native of Philadelphia and a graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. He has written the screenplays for New Line Cinema’s, “ELF”, starring Will Ferrell and Disney’s, “THE HAUNTED MANSION.” He has also co-written the screenplays... Read More →
avatar for Karen Schaler

Karen Schaler

writer A Christmas Prince, Christmas Camp, Every Day is Christmas, Rediscovering Christmas
Karen Schaler is a three-time Emmy Award–winning storyteller, author, screenwriter, journalist, and national TV host. In the last two years, she has written original screenplays for Netflix, Hallmark, and Lifetime Christmas movies. In 2017, Schaler wrote Netflix’s first original... Read More →
avatar for Matt Lieberman

Matt Lieberman

writer The Christmas Chronicles, Free Guy, Playing with Fire, The Addams Family, Meet the Machines, Scooby Doo, Monster on the Hill
MATT LIEBERMAN recently sold spec script MEET THE MACHINES to Lionsgate with LitEntertainment and Temple Hill producing.His black list script FREE GUY is currently in pre-production at 20th Century Fox with BerlantiProductions and Lit Entertainment attached to produce. Shawn Levy... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

WORK IN PROGRESS: Story to Structure
We believe it is not a writer’s level of talent that determines their success, but rather how they work with and manage that talent. In WORK IN PROGRESS, Ed Solomon and Max Borenstein (with special guests) will lead a question and answer workshop using the writing issues attendees are currently facing as a backdrop to discuss the real thing that separates the pros from the not-yet pros: the ability to assess, mine and cultivate one’s own unique gifts, and to keep them growing throughout a lifetime. Participants are requested to come prepared with questions on specific issues they are facing while moving from Story to Structure.

THIS IS AN EXTENDED PANEL THAT WILL END AT 12:00PM.


Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Meg LeFauve

Meg LeFauve

writer Inside Out, Captain Marvel, Good Dinosaur
Nominated for a 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 Hulu and the animated film MY FATHER’S DRAGON... Read More →
avatar for Ed Solomon

Ed Solomon

writer HBO’s Mosaic, Men in Black, Untitled Steven Soderbergh feature; co-writer Bill & Ted Face the Music, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Now You See Me 1 & 2, It's Garry Shandling's Show, Untitled David O Russell feature
When Bill & Ted Face the Music comes out in 2020, Ed Solomon will have had a major filmreleased in each of the last 5 decades, starting in 1989 with his (and co-writer Chris Matheson’s)first feature, Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. The 90’s saw Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Men... Read More →
avatar for Max Borenstein

Max Borenstein

creator The Terror: Infamy, Untitled Showtime Lakers Project (2020, HBO), Untitled Game of Thrones Spinoff, Minority Report; writer: Godzilla (2014), Kong: Skull Island, Godzilla 2, Godzilla v. Kong (2020), What is Life Worth (2020)
Max Borenstein wrote the script for 2014’s blockbuster GODZILLA, as well as KONG: SKULL ISLAND, GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS (story), and the forthcoming GODZILLA V. KONG.His next film as writer and producer, the drama WHAT IS LIFE WORTH, based on Kenneth Feinberg's memoir of... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 9:00am - 11:00am CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

Crash Course: Selling TV
What does it take to successfully package, develop, and sell a TV pilot? With over 60 TV pilots sold, six series run as Executive Producer, and over 275 hours of TV series under his belt, writer/producer/director Matthew Gross is a hot commodity in the biz today. Join Gross for a discussion on getting your series off the ground and onto the screen and the steps for creating and selling a successful pilot.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Matthew Gross

Matthew Gross

producer Across the Universe, Fired Up!, Joe Somebody; executive producer The InBetween, Taken, Sons of Liberty, DayBreak; showrunner/director Body of Proof; producer/director Dirty Sexy Money; producer Live Stage Musical The Sting
MATTHEW GROSS currently has an overall POD deal with Universal Television, recently wrapped production on The InBetween for NBC, is developing a series for Universal entitled Queens and recently sold a feature film Country musical to Paramount Players. Gross is the former President... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

Executives and Development
The business of getting a movie made is changing, and fast. Our experts will help you navigate an ever-evolving Hollywood and learn the ropes for working with entertainment executives to get your idea off the ground and into development.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Tim Albaugh

Tim Albaugh

moderator; Producer; Director, Hollins University Graduate Screenwriting Program, Co-Founder ProPath Screenwriting

Speakers
avatar for Ryan P. Hall

Ryan P. Hall

Head of Development, Rooster Teeth; executive producer Blood Fest, Lazer Team 2, Immerson: Shark Week
avatar for Elsa Boccuzzi

Elsa Boccuzzi

Senior Creative Executive, Walt Disney Animation Studios; co-producer David Makes Man, What/If
Elsa is the Senior Creative Executive on the Development Team at Walt Disney Animation Studios. This is Elsa’s first venture into the animation world after a decade-long career in live action, primarily concentrated in scripted series development. Most recently, she was a Co-Producer... Read More →
avatar for Meta Valentic

Meta Valentic

Development Executive, Entertainment Media Management; executive producer The Donors; producer Urbania; assistant director Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Castle, Bones, Lost
Meta Valentic began her career as the youngest member of the DGA Assistant Director'sTraining Program. Her assistant director credits include CASTLE, LOST, and BONES, andall 4 seasons of the Emmy and Golden Globe winning musical comedy CRAZY EXGIRLFRIEND. Meta wasnominated for 2 Directors... Read More →
avatar for Wayne Horton

Wayne Horton

Creative Executive
After graduating law school at Syracuse University, Wayne Horton started his career in Business & Legal Affairs at New Line Cinema. It was at New Line where he developed a passion for genre films and working with diverse filmmakers. Horton then went on to Fairview Entertainment, where... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

How Does Inclusion Make Stories Better? presented by The HUMANITAS Prize
Inclusion makes better stories.
Inclusion is good for business.

Diverse voices that bring experience and talent to a project give access to a wider audience and, ultimately, more shots at success.

In all creative work, there are risks. These distinguished panelists will discuss how embracing diversity has paid off. With more representation than ever before, the quality of television and film is at an all-time high. No one can argue about the success that inclusion brings.

Join HUMANITAS Board President Ali LeRoi as he talks to showrunners at the top of their game about how inclusion not only increases audiences, but actually makes the stories that are told, better.

This panel is presented by The HUMANITAS Prize.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Ali LeRoi

Ali LeRoi

writer/director/producer Everybody Hates Chris, Survivor's Remorse, Are We There Yet? (television series)
Ali LeRoi is an Award- winning writer/director/producer best known for his work on the critically acclaimed series, , CW's “Everybody Hates Chris”, TBS "Are We There Yet?" and the breakout Hit for STARZ, “Survivor’s Remorse”. Ali has five Emmy nominations as well as one... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Ayanna Floyd Davis

Ayanna Floyd Davis

showrunner/writer The Chi; writer Private Practice, Hannibal, Falling Skies
Ayanna Floyd Davis has been making her mark as a writer and producer in the television industry for almost two decades. She has written and produced some of TV’s hottest series and has worked for some of the most renowned showrunners in the business. Most recently, Ayanna flexed... Read More →
avatar for Erika Green Swafford

Erika Green Swafford

consulting producer New Amsterdam; writer/producer How to get Away With Murder, The Mentalist
Erika Green Swafford is a writer, performer, and producer currently in development with Universal Television. Erika’s writing credits include NBC’s drama “New Amsterdam,” "Reverie," “How to Get Away With Murder,” and "The Mentalist." Erika began her career not in entertainment... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Humanitas

Friday October 25, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

Indie Film Track: Finding the Time
How do you find the time to pursue your creative goals “on the side” while still focusing on work and family? In this panel, filmmakers will discuss strategies for balancing your creative endeavors with real world responsibilities, complete with advice for maintaining both your creative impulses.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Ashland Viscosi

Ashland Viscosi

moderator; Founder, Creatives Meet Business

Speakers
avatar for Richard Botto

Richard Botto

Screenwriter, Producer, Founder & CEO, Stage 32
Richard “RB” Botto is a producer whose films have played at dozens of festivals including the Sundance award-winning feature, Another Happy Day, starring Ellen Barkin, Demi Moore and Kate Bosworth and written & directed by Euphoria creator Sam Levinson, What Lies Ahead, starring... Read More →
avatar for Bennett Krishock

Bennett Krishock

co-Producer/editor Swing Low
Bennett Krishock is an Award-Winning Producer, Director, and Editor based in Austin, Texas.With a focus on independent narrative work, Krishock has produced and directed dozens of short films and music videos. His most recent feature, SWING LOW, a survival thriller starring Bruce... Read More →
avatar for Hanadi Elyan

Hanadi Elyan

writer /director Salma's Home, The Camp Beauty, Nadia's Visa, Mariam's Chance
Writer / Director Hanadi Elyan is an Arab filmmaker whose work focuses on the social issues facing marginalized communities from a female perspective. Hanadi's short films have competed in film festivals around the world. Her film career started in Jordan, then she moved to Dubai... Read More →
avatar for David Midell

David Midell

writer/director The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain
David Midell began his career drawing inspiration from his work as a teacher and therapist in disadvantaged areas of Chicago. His debut feature, NightLights, followed a sister and her brother with autism through triumphs and heartbreaks as they find their place in the world. The film... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Indie Film Track

10:45am CDT

On Writing Chernobyl: A Conversation with Craig Mazin
Join Craig Mazin, creator of the HBO miniseries Chernobyl for a conversation on the process behind his faithful reimagining of the 1986 nuclear accident that lead to one of the worst human disasters in recent history. In this panel, Mazin will discuss the making of the historical drama, and how research, transparency, and responsible storytelling are crucial for preserving the truth at the core of your story.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Craig Mazin

Craig Mazin

co-host Scriptnotes; writer Chernobyl, Identity Thief, The Hangover Parts II & III, The Huntsman: Winter’s War
CRAIG MAZIN is the writer and executive producer of the five-part series CHERNOBYL, which tells the true story of the world’s worst nuclear disaster and the remarkable acts of bravery and sacrifice that followed. The series premieres on HBO in May and stars Jared Harris, Stellan... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

On Writing To All the Boys I've Loved Before: A Conversation with Sofia Alvarez
Join writer Sofia Alvarez for an in-depth look at her Netflix original film To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before. In this panel, Alvarez will discuss the process of adapting the YA novel for the screen and her advice for writing a teen romance film that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Speakers
avatar for Sofia Alvarez

Sofia Alvarez

playwright; screenwriter To All the Boys I've Loved Before
Sofia Alvarez is a playwright and screenwriter. She recently adapted Jenny Han’s bestselling novel To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before which premiered on Netflix in August 2018. She is currently working on the sequel, PS I Still Love You also for Netflix. She is writing a film adaptation... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church, Sanctuary 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

Roadmap Writers Presents Life's a Pitch!
Life's a pitch! Well, at least that's the case for these screenwriters. Join pitch competition sponsor Roadmap Writers for a conversation with panelists as they share their stories about the projects they've pitched and offer insight on how to maximize your success in front of decision-makers.

This panel is presented by Roadmap Writers.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Jorge Gonzalez

Speakers
avatar for Tess Morris

Tess Morris

writer Man Up, Casual
Born and bred Londoner, Tess has been writing since she could walk (not 100% true) and her first words were ‘Elvis is the King!’ (100% true). Her first screenplay, the romantic comedy Man Up, made the 2011 Brit List, was picked up by Big Talk Pictures, co-produced by Studio Canal... Read More →
avatar for Gary Whitta

Gary Whitta

writer, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, The Book of Eli, After Earth
GARY WHITTA is a screenwriter and author best known as co-writer of ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY. He also wrote the post-apocalyptic thriller THE BOOK OF ELI starring Denzel Washington, co-wrote the Will Smith sci-fi adventure AFTER EARTH, and served as writer and story consultant... Read More →
avatar for Ashley Miller

Ashley Miller

writer Thor, X-MEN: First Class, Red Sonja; writer/producer Fringe, Black Sails, Lore
Ashley Edward Miller is a film and television writer best known for Thor and X-Men: First Class. Most recently in television, Ashley wrote and produced for the second season of Lore on Amazon Prime, and the critically acclaimed fourth season of Black Sails on Starz. He also worked... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Roadmap Writers

Friday October 25, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

Selling Your Script
You may have written a masterful screenplay, but if you can't successfully pitch it in the room, your script doesn’t stand a chance. Join this discussion on condensing your story into a concise, marketable pitch and how to best communicate your ideas to the executives, producers, and managers that can help make it happen!

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Alisa Perren

Alisa Perren

Moderator

Speakers
avatar for David Klawans

David Klawans

producer Argo, Nacho Libre
David Klawans is a producer known for discovering obscure true stories, with an eye towards those that translate well to film. He was an executive producer on ARGO which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Klawans also produced NACHO LIBRE starring Jack Black which was inspired... Read More →
avatar for James Wager

James Wager

President, Capital Creations Management Company
Jamie Wager is the principal at Capital Creations, where he focuses on staffing TV writers. Current clients include Maria Ferrari, who just started an overall at WBTV, having spent 10 years at “The Big Bang Theory,” where she rose from executive story editor to executive producer... Read More →
avatar for Nathalie Lichtenthaeler

Nathalie Lichtenthaeler

producer Don’t Go, As if I’m not There, The Front Line, Cowboys & Angels
After graduating university in Germany with a Masters Degree in Economics, Nathalie ditched a promising career in international marketing in the fashion industry and signed on as a production assistant on a film set. Nathalie's rise through the production ranks was swift. Having worked... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Bethell Hall
  Conference

10:45am CDT

The Screenwriters Toolbox: Character
Characters are the emotional anchor for all great stories. No matter how intricate your plot design, well-developed characters are integral for engaging your audience and encouraging them to invest in your story’s journey. This panel will explore the tools for writing effective characters and why character building is so vital to the success of a screenplay.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Greg Garrett

Greg Garrett

moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Speakers
avatar for Carly Wray

Carly Wray

writer/producer Westworld, The Leftovers, Mindhunter, Mad Men
Carly Wray is an award-winning television writer, producer, and screenwriter. A graduate of Reed College and USC's School of Cinematic Arts, Wray got her start on MAD MEN, where she began as the writers’ assistant and ultimately won a Writers Guild Award for the show's final season... Read More →
avatar for Ben Cory Jones

Ben Cory Jones

writer/creator Boomerang; writer Insecure, Underground; producer Step Sisters
Ben Cory Jones currently serves as the showrunner/executive producer of the BET comedyseries, BOOMERANG, loosely based on the iconic 90’s-era film, starring Eddie Murphy andHalle Berry. Lena Waithe and Halle Berry also serve as executive producers.Most recently and prior to Boomerang... Read More →
avatar for James V. Hart

James V. Hart

creator/executive producer The Hot Zone; writer Hook, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Contact, Tuck Everlasting, Muppet Treasure Island, August Rush, Epic, Crossbones; Creator, HartChart
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 →
avatar for Erika L. Johnson

Erika L. Johnson

writer/ producer The Good Lord Bird, The Village, Queen Sugar, Shades of Blue; writer Being Mary Jane, Ugly Betty
Erika L. Johnson is Co-Executive Producer of the upcoming Showtime limited series, THE GOOD LORD BIRD, starring Ethan Hawke, based on the National Book Award winning novel by James McBride. She was also a Co-Executive Producer on NBC’s THE VILLAGE. Prior to that, Erika was a Supervising... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

1:30pm CDT

A Conversation with Phil Hay
With credits like the 2018 crime drama Destroyer, thriller The Invitation, and a number of action films and comedies under his belt, screenwriter Phil Hay has built his career writing across genres. In this panel, Hay will discuss his writing process and the storytelling tools he uses to craft compelling films for a wide variety of audiences.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Phil Hay

Phil Hay

writer/producer The Invitation, Destroyer; writer Crazy/Beautiful, Ride Along, Ride Along 2, Clash of the Titans
Phil Hay is a screenwriter and producer. Hay, partner Matt Manfredi, and director Karyn Kusama (who is also Hay’s wife) made the upcoming Los Angeles crime drama Destroyer, starring Nicole Kidman, and the thriller The Invitation, which debuted at SXSW in 2015 and went on to play... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church, Sanctuary 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

1:30pm CDT

A Conversation with Sarah Green: The 2019 Recipient of the Polly Platt Award for Producing
Sarah Green is an Oscar-and Emmy-nominated producer, known for producing Jeff Nichols’ Loving, Midnight Special, and Mud, as well as Terrence Malick’s The New World, Knight of Cups, Song to Song, and the Academy Award Best Picture nominated The Tree of Life. In this panel, Green will discuss her prolific career in the world of independent film, and how the role of producer has helped her to champion unique voices and storytellers in the industry.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Sarah Green

Sarah Green

2019 Recipient of the Polly Platt Award for Producing
Oscar- and Emmy-nominated producer Sarah Green is known for powerful auteur-driven independent films and television.Her most recent production, HBO's "Fahrenheit 451" was written and directed by Ramin Bahrani and starred Michael B. Jordan and Michael Shannon. The film was nominated... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

1:30pm CDT

Art Imitates Life: Biopics and other True Stories
Writing a successful biopic is no easy feat. Sure, your subject comes with a built-in story, but how do you live up to the legend and craft characters that are as compelling as their larger-than-life counterparts? Panelists will discuss their strategies for writing an effective biopic and the art of balancing fact and fiction while staying true to the heart of your subject’s story.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Greg Garrett

Greg Garrett

moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Speakers
avatar for Alex Tse

Alex Tse

co-creator/co-showrunner Wu-Tang: An American Saga; writer Watchmen, Superfly, Sucker Free City
Alex Tse’s credits include Watchmen, Superfly and the Spike Lee directed Sucker Free City, an original movie for Showtime for which he won a PEN Award.  Over his career, Tse has written projects for directors Michael Mann, Zack Snyder, Justin Lin, Guy Ritchie and James Mangold... Read More →
avatar for David Gleeson

David Gleeson

writer Tolkien, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, The Grimm Legacy, Down to a Sunless Sea; writer/director Don't Go, The Front Line, Cowboys & Angels
David Gleeson hails from a family of cinema-owners in rural Ireland and attributes his career path to a deep childhood immersion in movies. Following a 5 year stint in the UK North Sea oil industry, followed by another 2 in the Arctic Circle, David made his feature film debut as... Read More →
avatar for Micah Fitzerman-Blue

Micah Fitzerman-Blue

co-writer Transparent, The Motel Life, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil
Micah Fitzerman-Blue and Noah Harpster are Peabody Award winning and Emmy-nominated writers and producers. Fitzerman-Blue and Harpster spent four seasons working on TRANSPARENT for Amazon Studios.They are co-writers and executive producers of the upcoming movie A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN... Read More →
avatar for Noah Harpster

Noah Harpster

co-writer Transparent, The Motel Life, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil
Micah Fitzerman-Blue and Noah Harpster are Peabody Award winning and Emmy-nominated writers and producers. Fitzerman-Blue and Harpster spent four seasons working on TRANSPARENT for Amazon Studios.They are co-writers and executive producers of the upcoming movie A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

1:30pm CDT

Indie Film Track: The Editing Process
The editor plays a pivotal part in the storytelling process, and good editing can make or break your film. Join this panel of filmmakers for a conversation on the key role the editor plays in post-production and the skill set required for shaping weeks of footage into a compelling and cohesive story.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Johnny McAllister

Johnny McAllister

moderator
Johnny McAllister is an award-winning filmmaker and screenwriter from Donegal, Ireland. He recently cowrote and executive produced the feature film BULL which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2019 and more recently won the top three awards at the Deauville American Film Festival... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Kevin Ward

Kevin Ward

writer/director/producer A Patient Man
Kevin Ward is a filmmaker and television editor originally from Jacksonville, FL. He is the writer and director of A PATIENT MAN, a feature film screening at this year’s Austin Film Festival.After finishing his Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre at the University of Central Florida... Read More →
avatar for Corey Sherman

Corey Sherman

editor Last Week at Ed's
Corey Sherman is a filmmaker living in Los Angeles, California and a graduate of USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. In addition to his work as a documentary editor, he has written and directed several award-winning comedic short films and had work featured on Vulture and NoBudge. He... Read More →
avatar for Dan Erikson

Dan Erikson

writer, director, editor Treasure Trouble
Dan Erickson is a filmmaker based in New York City. His first feature film A SIBLING MYSTERY, which he wrote, directed, and produced with Rachel Wortell, premiered at the Vail Film Festival, and played at many other festivals, including the Mill Valley Film Festival. His second feature... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Indie Film Track

1:30pm CDT

Law of the Land: Legal Dos & Don'ts in Hollywood
As a writer, the last thing on your mind is the legal language of Hollywood. That said, being a writer with an understanding of entertainment law can give you a huge leg up in the industry. Join this panel of entertainment lawyers for a discussion on defamation, life rights, copyright/fair use, and the legal red tape that can make or break your story.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Scott Richter

Scott Richter

moderator; President, Richter Scale Media
avatar for Stephen Clark

Stephen Clark

Partner, Lichter Grossman Nichols Adler Feldman & Clark, Inc.
Stephen Clark is a partner in the West Hollywood, CA entertainment law firm, Lichter Grossman Nichols Adler Feldman & Clark.  For over 18 years, he has represented a diverse group of writers, directors, actors and producers in film and television.  His extensive experience includes... Read More →
avatar for Melissa Georges

Melissa Georges

Counsel, Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz
Melissa Georges is counsel to the Entertainment Group and Chair of the Content Review &Clearance Group at Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz. For more than 20 years, she has helped award-winning film and televisionproducers, directors, actors, writers, animators, and comedians resolve... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

1:30pm CDT

On Writing Rattlesnake: A Conversation with Zak Hilditch
Join filmmaker Zak Hilditch for a conversation on writing and directing the Netflix original thriller Rattlesnake, set to screen its World Premiere on the Festival's opening night. In this panel, Zak will discuss creating the pulse-pounding, psychological thriller and the film's journey from script to stream.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Owen Egerton

Owen Egerton

writer/director Blood Fest, Follow, Mercy Black

Speakers
avatar for Zak Hilditch

Zak Hilditch

writer/director Rattlesnake, 1922, These Final Hours
Zak Hilditch is a native of Perth and studied film at Curtin University. In 2013 his first funded feature These Final Hours premiered at the Melbourne International Film Festival, picking up The Age critics prize for best film. The film later had its international premiere in the... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Bethell Hall
  Conference

1:30pm CDT

Student Empowerment through Filmmaking and Storytelling presented by Macmillan Learning and Cinema Ed
Can making a film also make you a better student? Experiential data and practical experience support the notion that filmmaking and storytelling help connect students to their studies and to future success in the workplace. Come listen as we discuss how the process of writing and shooting a student film helps lift up educational pursuits and prepares our next generation of innovative and creative thinkers. A panelist from Macmillan Learning, who facilitate teaching and learning opportunities, will join film and education experts and a student filmmaker to get to the heart of how storytelling can empower students in all their studies.

This panel is presented by Macmillan Learning and Cinema Ed.
Moderators
avatar for Richard Stephen Bell

Richard Stephen Bell

moderator; Executive Director, Cinema Ed; writer; actor, Cinema Ed
Richard is the Founder and Executive Director of CINEMA ED, a 501(c)3 non-profit film and media organization that focuses on using independent film as a teaching tool. Although their programs place special emphasis on at-risk populations, they work with all students to harness the... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Erika Gutierrez

Erika Gutierrez

Senior Program Director for Communication and College Success, Macmillan Learning
As a Senior Director with Macmillan Learning, Erika oversees a team of editors, media professionals, and prestigious authors in crafting best-selling educational products for film, media studies, and communication. She has signed and published more than 30 titles, produced hundreds... Read More →
avatar for Cindy McCreery

Cindy McCreery

The Blondes AMC/Shudder, Fifty Universal TV, Something in the Water Effenson Entertainment, Haven Sy/Fy Channel, Missy Piggle Wiggle Freckle Films Free Willy WB, Disney Feature Fellow, Associate Professor and Screenwriting Area Head UT Austin
Cindy McCreery is an Associate Professor of Screenwriting in the Department of Radio-TV-Film at The University of Texas at Austin where she teaches television and feature film writing in the undergraduate, graduate and Michener Center for Writing programs. Previously she taught screenwriting... Read More →
M

Sponsors
avatar for Cinema Ed
avatar for Macmillan Learning

Friday October 25, 2019 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Panel

1:30pm CDT

The Screenwriters Toolbox: Dialogue
Great dialogue is the key to a successful script. While a strong narrative is the backbone of any film, it’s compelling dialogue that gives your screenplay rhythm and keeps the audience engaged with your characters. Join these panelists who have mastered the art of dialogue for a conversation on when to “show” and when to “tell” and how character speech is vital for shaping the tone of your story.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for John Spong

John Spong

Moderator; Former Senior Editor at Texas Monthly

Speakers
avatar for Bill Broyles

Bill Broyles

co-creator Six; writer Cast Away, Apollo 13, The Polar Express, Unfaithful, Jarhead, China Beach
Bill Broyles grew up in Baytown, Texas, attended Rice University and Oxford University, worked in the civil rights movement, and finished out the Sixties as a Marine infantry lieutenant in Vietnam. As a journalist he was the founding editor of Texas Monthly and editor-in-chief of Newsweek.He... Read More →
avatar for Tess Morris

Tess Morris

writer Man Up, Casual
Born and bred Londoner, Tess has been writing since she could walk (not 100% true) and her first words were ‘Elvis is the King!’ (100% true). Her first screenplay, the romantic comedy Man Up, made the 2011 Brit List, was picked up by Big Talk Pictures, co-produced by Studio Canal... Read More →
avatar for Steve Conrad

Steve Conrad

writer/creator/executive producer Perpetual Grace, LTD, Patriot; writer The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, The Pursuit of Happyness, The Weather Man
Steven Conrad is the writer of The Pursuit of Happyness, The Weather Man, and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. He also writes and directs the Amazon series Patriot and the forthcoming Epix series Perpetual Grace, LTD.
avatar for Laura Eason

Laura Eason

writer/producer The Loudest Voice, Here and Now; playwright Sex with Strangers
Laura Eason is a Brooklyn-based playwright, screenwriter and producer.Her writing/producing credits for TV include The Loudest Voice for Showtime and four seasons on Netflix’s House of Cards (Emmy Nomination for Drama Series, WGA Nomination for Writing in a Drama Series.) Laura's... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

1:30pm CDT

Writing and Creative Development at Pixar
Pixar Animation Studios has a story development process that is unique in the industry. In this panel, Toy Story 4 writer Stephany Folsom and Story Supervisor Valerie LaPointe will join Mike Jones, who has written for several Pixar movies, in describing the intensely collaborative way writers work with directors and story artists. Development Executives Mary Coleman and Megan Alderson will walk you through how Pixar scouts writers, matches them with directors, then supports them in creating engaging characters, believable worlds, and compelling stories.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Mary Coleman

Mary Coleman

Head of Creative Development, Pixar Animation Studios
Mary Coleman is the Senior Development Executive at Pixar Animation Studios. She joined Pixar in 1999 to create the Development department. Coleman was recruited from San Francisco’s Magic Theater because Pixar recognized that her work developing world premiers of new plays would... Read More →
avatar for Stephany Folsom

Stephany Folsom

writer Star Wars Resistance, Toy Story 4; writer/consulting producer Lord of the Rings (2019); writer/executive producer Paper Girls
Stephany Folsom traveled the world producing short-form docs before her script 1969 A SPACE ODYSSEY: OR HOW KUBRICK LEARNED TO STOP WORRYING AND LAND ON THE MOON made the 2013 Black List and Hit List. Since then, she's worked on Marvel's THOR: RAGNAROK, wrote on Lucasfilm's STAR WARS... Read More →
avatar for Megan Alderson

Megan Alderson

Pixar Creative Development Associate
Since joining Pixar Animation Studios in 2013, Megan Alderson has worked on a number of films including Inside Out, The Good Dinosaur, Finding Dory, and Coco. She got her start in animation production at DreamWorks, and previously worked as a documentary and commercial editor in New... Read More →
avatar for Mike Jones

Mike Jones

Senior Story and Creative Artist, Pixar Animation Studios; writer Soul (2020)
Mike Jones is the Senior Story and Creative Artist at Pixar Animation Studios. He is currently writing Soul for director Pete Docter.Born and raised in South Texas, Jones graduated from NYU. Before Pixar, Jones was a working screenwriter for over 20 years. He now works with Pixar’s... Read More →
avatar for Valerie LaPointe

Valerie LaPointe

Story supervisor Toy Story 4; director Lamp Life
Valerie LaPointe began at Pixar Animation Studios as a story intern the summer of 2006. She was a story artist on shorts including “Presto” and “Partysaurous Rex,” on several “Mater’s Tall Tales,” on the Toy Story Toon, “Small Fry,” and the TV special “Toy Story... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

3:15pm CDT

Breaking the Rules
There is no rule in screenwriting you can't break, as long as you break it well. There are plenty of hard and fast rules to follow while writing, but even more important is knowing when to break those rules for the good of your story. Join writers for a conversation on tossing out the rulebook and learning to yield to your best creative impulses.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Miguel Alvarez

Speakers
avatar for Aline Brosh McKenna

Aline Brosh McKenna

co-creator/showrunner Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, writer The Devil Wears Prada, 27 Dresses, Morning Glory, We Bought a Zoo
Aline Brosh McKenna is an award-winning writer/producer/director, and one of the highest-grossing female screenwriters of all time. In 2006, McKenna adaptedthe popular novel, "The Devil Wears Prada." For that screenplay, McKennagarnered Writers Guild, BAFTA and Scripter award nominations.In... Read More →
avatar for C. Robert Cargill

C. Robert Cargill

writer Sinister, Marvel's Doctor Strange; novelist Sea of Rust
C. Robert Cargill is a novelist, former film critic, and a screenwriter on Marvel’s Doctor Strange and both of the Sinister films. His recent novel Sea of Rust was shortlisted for the Arthur C. Clarke Award. He lives and works here in Austin, Tx.
avatar for Ayanna Floyd Davis

Ayanna Floyd Davis

showrunner/writer The Chi; writer Private Practice, Hannibal, Falling Skies
Ayanna Floyd Davis has been making her mark as a writer and producer in the television industry for almost two decades. She has written and produced some of TV’s hottest series and has worked for some of the most renowned showrunners in the business. Most recently, Ayanna flexed... Read More →
avatar for Scott Rosenberg

Scott Rosenberg

writer Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle, Venom, Con Air, Beautiful Girls
Scott Rosenberg has written the screenplays “THINGS TO IN DENVER WHEN YOU’RE DEAD”, “BEAUTIFUL GIRLS”, “CON AIR”, “DISTURBING BEHAVIOR”, “GONE IN 60 SECONDS”, and “HIGHWAY”.He co-wrote “HIGH FIDELITY” and “KANGAROO JACK”. As well as created and produced... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

3:15pm CDT

From Pitch to Pick Up
Join producer Matthew Gross and writers Kat Likkel and John Hoberg for an inside look at their new country musical that was recently sold to Paramount. In this panel, the trio will discuss how they developed and sold the feature on a pitch and their advice for getting your story sold.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Harrison Glaser

Harrison Glaser

moderator; Former Film Competition Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Matthew Gross

Matthew Gross

producer Across the Universe, Fired Up!, Joe Somebody; executive producer The InBetween, Taken, Sons of Liberty, DayBreak; showrunner/director Body of Proof; producer/director Dirty Sexy Money; producer Live Stage Musical The Sting
MATTHEW GROSS currently has an overall POD deal with Universal Television, recently wrapped production on The InBetween for NBC, is developing a series for Universal entitled Queens and recently sold a feature film Country musical to Paramount Players. Gross is the former President... Read More →
avatar for Kat Likkel

Kat Likkel

co-showrunner Downward Dog, Galavant; co-writer Country Musical, Black-ish, The Neighbors, Better Off Ted, My Name is Earl
Kat Likkel and John Hoberg have been screenwriters and television producers for over 20 years, recently serving as showrunners on ABC’s “Downward Dog” – the first network half hour to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. Before that they served as showrunners for the medieval... Read More →
avatar for John Hoberg

John Hoberg

co-showrunner Downward Dog, Galavant; co-writer Country Musical, Black-ish, The Neighbors, Better Off Ted, My Name is Earl
Kat Likkel and John Hoberg have been screenwriters and television producers for over 20 years, recently serving as showrunners on ABC’s “Downward Dog” – the first network half hour to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. Before that they served as showrunners for the medieval... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

3:15pm CDT

Navigating the Room
For those starting out, the writers room can be both a dream and a nightmare. An unbridled breeding ground for new ideas and inspired debates, it can also be fraught with clashing personalities and an internal hierarchy that can be tricky to navigate. So how does the writers room work, and how do you take your ideas from pitch to draft to episode while working your way up the chain of command? Writers room veterans will sit down for a conversation on process, etiquette, and their best-kept strategies for working the room.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Courtenay Hameister

Courtenay Hameister

moderator; host PRI's Live Wire 2003-2013; co-writer The Benefits of Gusbandry; author Okay Fine Whatever: The Year I Went From Being Afraid of Everything to Only Being Afraid of Most Things

Speakers
avatar for Michael Brandt

Michael Brandt

creator Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, Chicago Med; writer 3:10 to Yuma, Wanted, 2Fast 2Furious, Catch That Kid, The Double
Michael Brandt is the co-creator of “Chicago Fire” along with its subsequent spinoffs  “Chicago PD, Chicago Med, and Chicago Justice.” Brandt directed multiple episodes as well.  Brandt wrote the features “3:10 to Yuma,” “Wanted,” “2 Fast 2 Furious,” “Catch... Read More →
avatar for Ray Utarnachitt

Ray Utarnachitt

writer/producer DC's Legends of Tomorrow
Ray Utarnachitt is currently a writer/producer  on DC’S LEGENDS OF TOMORROW.  He is a Michigan native and like any good Asian student, was pre-med at the University of Michigan for 3 years. Much to his parents’ dismay, he switched tracks and graduated with a Film degree.  Ray... Read More →
avatar for Erika L. Johnson

Erika L. Johnson

writer/ producer The Good Lord Bird, The Village, Queen Sugar, Shades of Blue; writer Being Mary Jane, Ugly Betty
Erika L. Johnson is Co-Executive Producer of the upcoming Showtime limited series, THE GOOD LORD BIRD, starring Ethan Hawke, based on the National Book Award winning novel by James McBride. She was also a Co-Executive Producer on NBC’s THE VILLAGE. Prior to that, Erika was a Supervising... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Sharzer

Jessica Sharzer

writer A Simple Favor, Nerve, American Horror Story
Jessica Sharzer made her feature writing and directing debut with SPEAK, starring Kristen Stewart and Steve Zahn. It premiered at Sundance in 2004 and was nominated for a Writers Guild Award and a Director Guild Award. She has since developed feature films for Universal, HBO, MTV... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

3:15pm CDT

Podcast Track: Writing Audio Fiction
How do you tell a story for an audio-only medium? Join this panel of fiction podcast writers for a conversation on the opportunities and obstacles that come with writing for the acoustic medium.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Fabienne Harford

Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Mitchell

Jonathan Mitchell

producer The Truth podcast
Jonathan Mitchell is the creator and host of The Truth podcast, an anthology fiction show launched in 2012 that’s part of the Radiotopia network. He has contributed a wide range of work— documentaries, fictional stories, non-narrated sound collages, and original music— to all... Read More →
avatar for Scott Conroy

Scott Conroy

writer/creator Blackout, Embeds; author Vote First Or Die, Sarah From Alaska
Scott Conroy is the creator and executive producer of “Blackout,” an 8-episode scripted podcast starring Rami Malek. Scott’s screenplay, “Analytica,” was optioned by Imagine Entertainment and was featured on the 2018 Black List. His limited series, “Trump: It Happened... Read More →
avatar for Marissa Tandon

Marissa Tandon

creator Super Ordinary, The Sword & The Stoner
Marissa Tandon is a writer, actor, and director based in Los Angeles. She is the writer and creator of the narrative fiction podcasts Super Ordinary and The Sword & The Stoner. She is the co-founder of Tandon Productions, which focuses on bringing new voices to the multi-media landscape... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Podcast Track

3:15pm CDT

Telling True Crime Stories
Crafting entertainment based on true crime can be a tricky path to navigate. How do creators tell interesting, compelling stories that stay true to real events, while respecting the victims and the human stories that are at the heart of the horror? Panelists will discuss their adaptations of true crime events to film and television, and how research plays a key role in sharing these stories responsibly.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Michael Werwie

Michael Werwie

writer/executive producer Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil, and Vile; writer Lost Girls
Michael Werwie is the writer and executive producer of EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL, AND VILE, starring Zac Efron, Lily Collins, and John Malkovich, winner of the Academy Nicholl Fellowship and featured on the 2012 Black List. His upcoming movie LOST GIRLS, based on the New York... Read More →
avatar for Guinevere Turner

Guinevere Turner

writer American Psycho, The Notorious Bettie Page, Go Fish, Charlie Says
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 and the 2019 film... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

3:15pm CDT

The Creative Career: Practical Tips for Starting Out presented by the Writers Guild of America West
A panel of successful WGAW writers will discuss what you need to know in your career, how to avoid common pitfalls, and what the Writers Guild can do for you.

This panel is presented by the Writers Guild of America West.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Gary Whitta

Gary Whitta

writer, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, The Book of Eli, After Earth
GARY WHITTA is a screenwriter and author best known as co-writer of ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY. He also wrote the post-apocalyptic thriller THE BOOK OF ELI starring Denzel Washington, co-wrote the Will Smith sci-fi adventure AFTER EARTH, and served as writer and story consultant... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Phil Hay

Phil Hay

writer/producer The Invitation, Destroyer; writer Crazy/Beautiful, Ride Along, Ride Along 2, Clash of the Titans
Phil Hay is a screenwriter and producer. Hay, partner Matt Manfredi, and director Karyn Kusama (who is also Hay’s wife) made the upcoming Los Angeles crime drama Destroyer, starring Nicole Kidman, and the thriller The Invitation, which debuted at SXSW in 2015 and went on to play... Read More →
avatar for April Shih

April Shih

writer Evel, You're The Worst, Undone, Mrs. America
April Shih is a Los Angeles-based television writer and filmmaker. Growing up in a sleepy beach suburb, Aprilentertained herself by catfishing people in AOL chatrooms. This penchant for making shit up eventually turnedinto a passion for storytelling, and after high school April attended... Read More →
avatar for Nicole Perlman

Nicole Perlman

writer Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain Marvel, Detective Pikachu
Nicole Perlman is best known for her work on “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Captain Marvel,” and “Detective Pikachu." Nicole received her BFA in filmmaking from NYU in 2003, and has gone on to win the Tribeca Film Festival's Sloan Foundation Grant for Science in Film, the Hugo... Read More →
avatar for Stephany Folsom

Stephany Folsom

writer Star Wars Resistance, Toy Story 4; writer/consulting producer Lord of the Rings (2019); writer/executive producer Paper Girls
Stephany Folsom traveled the world producing short-form docs before her script 1969 A SPACE ODYSSEY: OR HOW KUBRICK LEARNED TO STOP WORRYING AND LAND ON THE MOON made the 2013 Black List and Hit List. Since then, she's worked on Marvel's THOR: RAGNAROK, wrote on Lucasfilm's STAR WARS... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Writers Guild of America West

Friday October 25, 2019 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church, Sanctuary 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

3:15pm CDT

The Writer/Manager Relationship
You hear it from everyone: finding representation is the key to opening the doors of Hollywood. So what should you be looking for in a manager, and what can you expect from that relationship once you’ve found one? Join screenwriter Matt Lieberman alongside his literary manager Adam Kolbrenner for an in-depth exploration of the writer/manager relationship and how to make the most of this working partnership.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Tim Albaugh

Tim Albaugh

moderator; Producer; Director, Hollins University Graduate Screenwriting Program, Co-Founder ProPath Screenwriting

Speakers
avatar for Matt Lieberman

Matt Lieberman

writer The Christmas Chronicles, Free Guy, Playing with Fire, The Addams Family, Meet the Machines, Scooby Doo, Monster on the Hill
MATT LIEBERMAN recently sold spec script MEET THE MACHINES to Lionsgate with LitEntertainment and Temple Hill producing.His black list script FREE GUY is currently in pre-production at 20th Century Fox with BerlantiProductions and Lit Entertainment attached to produce. Shawn Levy... Read More →
avatar for Adam Kolbrenner

Adam Kolbrenner

producer Prisoners, Deadfall; Literary Manager, Lit Entertainment
Adam Kolbrenner is the founder of Lit Entertainment Group, a newly launched literary management andproduction company based in Century City, CA. Previously Kolbrenner co-founded MadhouseEntertainment.Kolbrenner produced Oscar-nominated film, Prisoners, for Warner Bros/Alcon Entertainment... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

3:15pm CDT

Creating Emotional Characters that Audiences Will Care About
Join Oscar-nominated screenwriter Meg LeFauve (Inside Out, The Good Dinosaur, Captain Marvel) for an insight into her process for creating authentic, rich characters.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

THIS IS AN EXTENDED PANEL THAT WILL END AT 5:00PM. 
Speakers
avatar for Meg LeFauve

Meg LeFauve

writer Inside Out, Captain Marvel, Good Dinosaur
Nominated for a 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 Hulu and the animated film MY FATHER’S DRAGON... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 3:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

7:00pm CDT

UCLA Story Break Live
Panelists from the Festival will break a feature story in front of an audience. They won't know the story idea beforehand. It will be a high pressure (but fun) situation in which the writers must have the entire story ready to pitch to the studio by the panel's end. One random Second Rounder in attendance will be chosen to participate. Come have a drink on us and watch the creativity unfold.

This panel is presented by UCLA Professional Programs.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend. 
Speakers
avatar for Steven Canals

Steven Canals

creator/executive producer POSE
Hailing from The Bronx, Steven Canals is the Creator and Executive Producer of the Golden Globe nominated and Peabody Award winning FX drama series POSE. A 2015 graduate of UCLA’s MFA Screenwriting program, he began his journey as a storyteller in high school, producing the documentary... Read More →
avatar for Cindy McCreery

Cindy McCreery

The Blondes AMC/Shudder, Fifty Universal TV, Something in the Water Effenson Entertainment, Haven Sy/Fy Channel, Missy Piggle Wiggle Freckle Films Free Willy WB, Disney Feature Fellow, Associate Professor and Screenwriting Area Head UT Austin
Cindy McCreery is an Associate Professor of Screenwriting in the Department of Radio-TV-Film at The University of Texas at Austin where she teaches television and feature film writing in the undergraduate, graduate and Michener Center for Writing programs. Previously she taught screenwriting... Read More →
avatar for Susan O'Connor

Susan O'Connor

Story Consultant, Netflix; Lead Writer, Torn (PlayStation VR); Story Consultant, Batman (Telltale); Lead Writer, Star Wars 1313 (LucasArts); Story Consultant, Dishonored 2 (Bethesda); Writer, Tomb Raider (Crystal Dynamics); Lead Writer, Far Cry 2 (Ubisoft); Writer, BioShock (2K)
Susan O'Connor tells stories for a living. Award-winning titles in her portfolio (including BioShock, Far Cry 2, and Tomb Raider) have sold over 30 million copies and generated over half a billion dollars in sales. She also teaches a course in interactive storytelling at UT Austin... Read More →
avatar for Charles Kim

Charles Kim

writer Heroes, Ben 10; comic book writer
Chuck Kim got his revenge on his Korean immigrant parents for burning his comic book collection and not allowing him to watch TV—by becoming a writer in both television and comic books.At the age of seven, Chuck was allowed to pick his “Western” name, picking Charlie after “Snoopy... Read More →
avatar for Neil Landau

Neil Landau

Assistant Dean, UCLA Department of Film, Television & Digital Media
Neil Landau is an award-winning screenwriter, producer, author, and screenwriting professor. His screen credits include the cult comedy Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead starring Christina Applegate; Melrose Place, The Magnificent Seven, Doogie Howser, M.D., The Secret World... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 7:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

10:00pm CDT

SCRIPTNOTES, Live!
Grab a drink from the bar and join Craig Mazin for a special late-night recording of the incredibly informative screenwriting podcast Scriptnotes. Mazin and (really good) special guests will discuss craft and career, complete with audience questions, and other surprises.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Craig Mazin

Craig Mazin

co-host Scriptnotes; writer Chernobyl, Identity Thief, The Hangover Parts II & III, The Huntsman: Winter’s War
CRAIG MAZIN is the writer and executive producer of the five-part series CHERNOBYL, which tells the true story of the world’s worst nuclear disaster and the remarkable acts of bravery and sacrifice that followed. The series premieres on HBO in May and stars Jared Harris, Stellan... Read More →

Friday October 25, 2019 10:00pm - 11:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference
 
Saturday, October 26
 

9:00am CDT

A Conversation with Virgil Williams
Join us for a conversation with Academy Award-nominated writer Virgil Williams. In this panel, we’ll explore Williams’ career in film and television, from his time as a writer/producer on TV series like 24, ER, and Criminal Minds, to his Netflix original film Mudbound, co-written with director Dee Rees, which screened at the 2017 Austin Film Festival and earned him an Oscar nomination for best Adapted Screenplay.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Greg Garrett

Greg Garrett

moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Speakers
avatar for Virgil Williams

Virgil Williams

co-writer Mudbound
A veteran television writer and producer, Williams’ extensive credits include the ground-breaking dramas “ER” and “24”, as well as Fox’s “The Chicago Code” and six seasons of CBS’s long-running procedural drama, “Criminal Minds”. In November of 2017 Williams... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Bethell Hall
  Conference

9:00am CDT

Diversity and Inclusion in the Writers Room
With more diverse voices come more opportunities to tell authentic stories that have yet to be seen on the screen. Join panelists for a conversation on the importance of inclusivity and the value in diverse representations of race, ethnicity, and identity in film and television in front of and behind the camera.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Spiro Skentzos

Spiro Skentzos

moderator; Co-Chair, WGA's LGBTQ+ Writers Committee; Creator, "Intro To TV Writing" Panel, San Diego Comic Con; co-creator/co-writer Chadam; writer Grimm, Arrow
Growing up speaking Spanish, Greek and English at home, Spiro developed an early interest in language, which inspired him to write. His first foray into screenwriting was as a young boy, when he wrote a script for his Star Wars figures where they battled his sister’s giant, menacing... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Grace Moss

Grace Moss

Director of Talent Development & Inclusion, NBC Entertainment
Grace Moss is the Director of Entertainment Diversity Initiatives for NBC Entertainment. In this role, she oversees multiple programs that focus on discovering, cultivating and showcasing talented writers and directors of diverse backgrounds, with the objective of getting them staffed... Read More →
avatar for Rochée Jeffrey

Rochée Jeffrey

co-producer Beverly Hills 90210, SMILF; producer Woke
Rochée Jeffrey is a writer/director/performer who hails originally from Jamaica. She’s written on several television series, including Showtime's Golden Globe-nominated comedy series SMILF and she’s a producer on the upcoming Hulu series Woke starring Larmorne Morris. On the... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Omni Hotel, Austin Room 700 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

From First to Final Draft presented by the International Screenwriters' Association
Meditative Writing creator Jess Hinds will break down the process of getting a first draft down on paper, the many drafts that follow, and how things can and will change during a shoot. In this discussion, we will take a look at three original scripts and the many changes that followed before reaching the final draft. If you're an emerging writer looking to demystify the creative process and learn a handful of craft tools, this is the panel for you.

This panel is presented by The International Screenwriters' Association.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Jess Hinds

Jess Hinds

Jessica S Hinds is an award-winning writer, teacher, and creator of Meditative Writing © .As an educator and creative coach Jessica has mentored thousands of writers including Sundance Award-winning filmmakers, Emmy Award-winning writers & producers, Tony Award winners, best-selling authors, professional musicians, TV showrunners, reality TV stars, published poets, and... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Tobias Iaconis

Tobias Iaconis

co-writer Five Feet Apart, The Curse of La Llorona
MIKKI DAUGHTRY and TOBIAS IACONIS had two films in theaters in 2019. CBS Films released FIVE FEET APART, starring Cole Sprouse and Haley Lue Richardson, produced by Cathy Schulman and Justin Baldoni, directed by Justin Baldoni. And Warner Bros. released THE CURSE OF LA LLORONA, a... Read More →
avatar for Mikki Daughtry

Mikki Daughtry

co-writer Five Feet Apart, The Curse of La Llorona
MIKKI DAUGHTRY and TOBIAS IACONIS had two films in theaters in 2019. CBS Films released FIVE FEET APART, starring Cole Sprouse and Haley Lue Richardson, produced by Cathy Schulman and Justin Baldoni, directed by Justin Baldoni. And Warner Bros. released THE CURSE OF LA LLORONA, a... Read More →
avatar for Julie Benson

Julie Benson

writer Wu Assassins, The 100, DC Comics Batgirl, Birds of Prey comic, Green Arrow comic; co-producer Untitled Star Trek Animated Series for Nickelodeon
Shawna and Julie are a sister writing team who not only share the same birthday (three years apart), but also a love of genre TV/Film and Comics. That love inspired their move from the cornfields of Illinois to sunny Los Angeles to pursue careers in screenwriting. The Benson Sisters... Read More →
avatar for Shawna Benson

Shawna Benson

writer/co-producer Wu Assassins, The 100; writer DC's Batgirl, Birds of Prey comic, Green Arrow comic; co-producer Untitled Star Trek Animated Series for Nickelodeon
Shawna and Julie are a sister writing team who not only share the same birthday (three years apart), but also a love of genre TV/Film and Comics. That love inspired their move from the cornfields of Illinois to sunny Los Angeles to pursue careers in screenwriting. The Benson Sisters... Read More →
avatar for Victoria Strouse

Victoria Strouse

writer Finding Dory
Just out of film school, Victoria Strouse sold her first screenplay to MGM. It waslater made into the feature film NEW BEST FRIEND. Her second screenplay,JUST LIKE A WOMAN, was sold, after a bidding war, to Newline Cinema. Inbetween script sales, she has been hired to write for every... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for ISA

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

Getting Started
What kind or preparation do you need to do before you start a project? Where's the line between "researching" and procrastinating? Join a group of writers as they discuss various processes before tackling the blank page.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Matt Dy

Matt Dy

Manager, Lit Entertainment Group; Former Director of Script Competitions, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Ashley Miller

Ashley Miller

writer Thor, X-MEN: First Class, Red Sonja; writer/producer Fringe, Black Sails, Lore
Ashley Edward Miller is a film and television writer best known for Thor and X-Men: First Class. Most recently in television, Ashley wrote and produced for the second season of Lore on Amazon Prime, and the critically acclaimed fourth season of Black Sails on Starz. He also worked... Read More →
avatar for Amy Louise Johnson

Amy Louise Johnson

writer Tyrant, The Long Road Home, Messiah, Nightflyers
Amy’s thrilled to be back in the AFF fold for 2019! This past year, Amy’s mainly been working in features, with two scripts in development with the wonderful folks at Amblin Entertainment. The first, BLOW THE MAN DOWN , an original screenplay, is a seafaring gender horror about... Read More →
avatar for Herschel Weingrod

Herschel Weingrod

writer Trading Places, Brewster’s Millions, Twins, Kindergarten Cop, Space Jam; producer Falling Down, The Final Season; director Last Wishes
HERSCHEL WEINGROD has been a working screenwriter and producer for over twenty-five years. His credits include Trading Places, Twins, Kindergarten Cop, Brewster’s Millions, Falling Down, Space Jam, Pure Luck, and The Final Season. He is an alumnus of the University of Wisconsin... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

Indie Film Track: Working with a Composer
A good musical score is key for setting the tone of your film—and finding the right composer can be tricky. In this panel, we’ll hear from indie filmmakers and film composers on how they work together to set the scene and what it takes to compose a killer film score.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Brian Ramos

Brian Ramos

moderator

Speakers
avatar for Miranda Sachetta

Miranda Sachetta

composer Transformers: Prime Wars Trilogy, The Eagle Huntress
Miranda Sachetta is a composer based out of Los Angeles, specializing in television, film, and other media. She holds a Film Scoring degree from Berklee College of Music in her hometown of Boston, Massachusetts. Miranda's music can be heard on shows including the Transformers: Prime... Read More →
avatar for Ian McLeod

Ian McLeod

founder, Cleod9 Music; composer Cowboys, The Push, Massacre River
Ian McLeod is the Founder and Lead Composer of Cleod9 Music. Based in Washington, D.C., his company features a small collective of musicians that create music for an array of media. In five short years, Ian has scored award-winning documentaries, films and commercials. His team also... Read More →
avatar for Talia Osteen

Talia Osteen

writer/director The Shabbos Goy
TALIA OSTEEN started in the industry as an actress, starring in 5 national TV series, before moving behind the camera. She graduated from USC's Cinema-Television Production program and went on to direct the feature documentary, BLINDSIDED (HBO). She then honed her narrative skills... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, Indie Film Track

9:00am CDT

Morning Improv
Back by popular demand, we're offering morning improv workshops during the Conference to help you loosen up before embarking on each day’s journey. Learn new techniques for pitching your story ideas and say “yes, and” to new skills that will help you market yourself and your script during the Festival.

This panel is co-presented by ColdTowne Theater.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.

Speakers
avatar for Dave Buckman

Dave Buckman

The Second City, Boom Chicago, American Crime, Machete
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 →

Sponsors
avatar for Coldtowne Theater

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Victorian Balcony 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

On Writing GLOW: A Conversation with Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch presented by Final Draft
Colorful characters, costume changes, and an ensemble cast of female wrestlers? Talk about a breeding ground for story. Join us for a conversation with Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch, the co-creators and showrunners behind the Netflix original series GLOW on adapting the real-life ‘80s phenomenon Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling as a fictional series and the liberties they took in the storytelling process.

This panel is presented by Final Draft.

Must have an AFF Producers,Conference, Weekend or Lone Star Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Liz Flahive

Liz Flahive

co-creator GLOW
LIZ FLAHIVE is currently running the Emmy Nominated Netflix series GLOW, which she co-created with Carly Mensch. She was also an Executive Producer on Nurse Jackie and a consulting producer on Homeland. Liz and her husband Jeff Cox co-wrote the feature Adult Beginners, which premiered... Read More →
avatar for Carly Mensch

Carly Mensch

co-creator GLOW
Carly Mensch co-created the critically acclaimed wrestling comedy GLOW for Netflix. Her past credits include Orange is the New Black, Nurse Jackie, and Weeds. Also an established playwright, Carly's plays have been developed and produced at Ars Nova theater in NYC among other places... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Final Draft

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

On Writing Sci-Fi
With the resurgence of mega hits and big-budget adventure films continuing to dominate at the box office, Sci-Fi has taken the lead as one of the industry’s most popular and lucrative genres. So how do these incredibly visual projects read on the page before they make it to the big screen, and what steps does it take to get there? Panelists will share their experiences writing for science fiction, and give their advice for crafting stories that are truly out of this world.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Paul Alvarado-Dykstra

Paul Alvarado-Dykstra

moderator
Paul Alvarado-Dykstra is VP of Operations and Marketing for New Sky Pictures, overseeing development and production for their New Sky Kids channel, which has over 2 million subscribers and 1.5 billion views worldwide on YouTube, and will soon launch an ad-free premium subscription... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Gary Whitta

Gary Whitta

writer, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, The Book of Eli, After Earth
GARY WHITTA is a screenwriter and author best known as co-writer of ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY. He also wrote the post-apocalyptic thriller THE BOOK OF ELI starring Denzel Washington, co-wrote the Will Smith sci-fi adventure AFTER EARTH, and served as writer and story consultant... Read More →
avatar for Emily Carmichael

Emily Carmichael

writer Jurassic World 3, Pacific Rim: Uprising, The Black Hole
Emily Carmichael. Emily is a writer and director of science fiction, fantasy, and action movies. Her short films have screened at Sundance, Slamdance, SXSW, Tribeca, and numerous other top festivals all around the world. The success of these shorts had Nerdist calling her a “talented... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

Podcast Track: Building and Engaging a Fan Community
You’ve created your podcast and now it’s time to find your audience. But building your fanbase is only the beginning—you’ve got to keep them coming back for more. In this panel, successful podcast creators will discuss their strategies for building an engaging fan community and how to maintain a following as you continue to generate new content.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Gabbi Lindgren

Gabbi Lindgren

moderator; AFF Script Competitions Manager

Speakers
avatar for Kaitlin Statz

Kaitlin Statz

writer/creator The White Vault, VAST Horizon, Liberty: Tales from the Tower; writer/co-creator Liberty: Critical Research
Kaitlin Statz is a podcast writer and creator, currently working on The White Vault, Liberty, and VAST Horizon. Her works have been nominated for Audio Verse Awards for three years running, and run as finalists in the Parsec Awards and the HEAR NOW Audio Fiction and Arts Festival... Read More →
avatar for Gabriel Urbina

Gabriel Urbina

writer/director Wolf 359, Time Bombs; guest writer Bright Sessions, Wooden Overcoats, Outliers, Our Fair City
Gabriel Urbina is a writer, director, and content creator, best known for Wolf 359, a Webby-Award nominated serial audio drama that’s been downloaded nine million times in over a hundred different countries. As head writer and executive producer for the series, Gabriel wrote forty-one... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Rhea Werner

Sarah Rhea Werner

creator/executive producer Girl In Space
Sarah Rhea Werner is a professional writer and podcaster who loves to help other creators find confidence and success. She is a contributor to Forbes and creator of the Girl In Space and Write Now podcasts. She currently lives in the Midwest with one husband, two rescue cats, and... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Podcast Track

9:00am CDT

The Art of Storytelling with Ron Bass and Daniel Petrie Jr.
In this panel, 2019 Awardees Ron Bass and Daniel Petrie, Jr. will sit down to discuss their expansive bodies of work and how passion, hard-work, and dedication to the craft has helped each of them build lasting and impactful careers.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Daniel Petrie, Jr.

Daniel Petrie, Jr.

2019 Recipient of the Heart of Film Award
Daniel Petrie, Jr. is a partner in Enderby Entertainment, an independent film finance and production company, founded in 2006 by Petrie and producer Rick Dugdale.  In 1985, Petrie received an Academy Award® nomination for Best Original Screenplay for his first produced script, the... Read More →
avatar for Ron Bass

Ron Bass

2019 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting
Ron was born in Los Angeles and began writing short stories at the age of six. During his teens, he wrote a novel VOLEUR, which he eagerly submitted to his Freshman English Professor. When she told him it could never be published, he burned the only copy in a metal bowl and didn’t... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

9:00am CDT

The Business of New Media
The world of new media is drastically changing the landscape of the entertainment industry, offering new and unique opportunities to break in and share your stories. Join these digital media executives, producers, managers, and creators for a discussion on the future of online storytelling and get hard-earned advice for using new media platforms to help launch your career in film and television.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Alisa Perren

Alisa Perren

Moderator

Speakers
avatar for Linnea Toney

Linnea Toney

Moderator; manager/producer
avatar for Andrew Veeder

Andrew Veeder

Creative Executive, Scripted, Stage 13
Andrew is a Creative Executive at Stage 13, developing and producing scripted content with an emphasis on trying to tell fresh and different stories from emerging talent, including the Emmy-nominated “Special” on Netflix. The product of a naval father and artist mother, he moved... Read More →
avatar for Fatimah Asghar

Fatimah Asghar

author If They Come for Us; writer/co-creator Brown Girls Web Series
Fatimah Asghar is a poet, screenwriter, educator and performer. Her work has appeared in many journals, including POETRY Magazine, Gulf Coast, BuzzFeed Reader, The Margins, The Offing, and the Academy of American Poets. Her work has been featured on news outlets like PBS, NPR, Time... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Omni Hotel, Lonestar Room 700 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, New Media Track

10:30am CDT

The Psychology of Storytelling
Back by popular demand, producer Lindsay Doran will explore what the field of Positive Psychology has to teach us about the secrets of creating a satisfying script.

THIS IS AN EXTENDED PANEL WITH AN EARLY START TIME OF 10:30AM.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Doran

Lindsay Doran

producer Stranger Than Fiction, Sense and Sensibility, Nanny McPhee, Dead Again; executive producer The Firm, Sabrina; former President/COO, United Artists
Lindsay Doran has worked in the movie business for more than 30 years as a studio executive and as a producer.  She has served as the President and COO of United Artists Pictures and as the President of Sydney Pollack’s Mirage Productions.  She currently divides her time between... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church, Sanctuary 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

Breaking into TV
The writers room is full of opportunities for new and aspiring writers. So how do you get staffed, and what kind of writing samples do you need to break into the room? This panel of new TV hires will discuss how they broke in along with their advice for getting your foot in the door—and working your way up the ladder.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.
Moderators
avatar for Nick Watson

Nick Watson

writer Final Space, Littlest Pet Shop: World of Our Own; co-host Paper Team

Speakers
avatar for Jimmy Mosqueda

Jimmy Mosqueda

writer Legacies, Schooled
Jimmy Mosqueda is a writer, California native, and a lover of maple donuts. He was previously a finalist in the Austin Film Festival Screenplay Competition with his comedy WINNER KILLS ALL (fka VALEDICTORIAN), and has participated in the Sundance Institute’s Screenwriters Intensive... Read More →
avatar for Paul Puri

Paul Puri

writer, Chicago Med; Psychiatrist
Paul Puri is a TV writer and psychiatrist, currently working as a Story Editor on CHICAGO MED on NBC. He began writing short stories in childhood with his first screenplay at 17, bad plays in college, and spec scripts during his medical training. He won Scriptapalooza in 2014, which... Read More →
avatar for April Shih

April Shih

writer Evel, You're The Worst, Undone, Mrs. America
April Shih is a Los Angeles-based television writer and filmmaker. Growing up in a sleepy beach suburb, Aprilentertained herself by catfishing people in AOL chatrooms. This penchant for making shit up eventually turnedinto a passion for storytelling, and after high school April attended... Read More →
avatar for Nora Nolan

Nora Nolan

writer Trial & Error, Paradise PD
Nora Nolan grew up in a perfect little town called Maplewood, NJ and she never shuts up about it. Nora learned to push comedy boundaries in her large Irish Catholic family where, in order to get a word in edgewise, you either had to lead with a case of Bud Heavy or an edgy punch line... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

Inside the Writers Room: Empire
Join us as we go inside the writers room of Empire with a few of the series’ original writers – Joshua Allen, Eric Haywood, Attica Locke, and Malcolm Spellman. In this conversation, they’ll discuss their experience in the writers room of the popular Fox drama series when the show first burst onto the scene, and what it was like to suddenly find themselves writing for a hit series.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Alvaro Rodriguez

Alvaro Rodriguez

writer From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series, RUST (Showtime); co-creator/executive producer Seis Manos

Speakers
avatar for Joshua Allen

Joshua Allen

co-executive producer Almost Family; writer/producer Empire
Joshua Allen, a native of Chicago, is a writer and co-executive producer on Fox’s Almost Family. He was previously a writer and producer on Fox’s Empire and CBS’s Hostages. As a playwright, he was the recipient of a New Voices/New York Fellowship from the Lark Play Development... Read More →
avatar for Eric Haywood

Eric Haywood

co-executive Producer For Life, Power, Empire
Eric Haywood was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.He began his career as a music video director while still enrolled at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Filmmaking. After relocating to Atlanta, Eric went on to direct and produce... Read More →
avatar for Attica Locke

Attica Locke

author of five books; writer/producer When They See Us, Little Fires Everywhere
Attica Locke’s latest novel Heaven, My Home, sequel to the Edgar Award winning Bluebird, Bluebird was published in September of this year. Her novel Pleasantville was the winner of the Harper Lee Prize for Legal Fiction and was also long-listed for the Bailey’s Prize for Women’s... Read More →
avatar for Malcolm Spellman

Malcolm Spellman

writer/executive producer Falcon & Winter Soldier, Truth Be Told; co-executive producer Empire

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

On Writing Veep: A Conversation with David Mandel
The HBO comedy series Veep has been long hailed for its biting wit, unflinching political satire, and a cast of characters as beloved as they are deplorable. Join showrunner David Mandel as he reflects on his role at the helm of the critically acclaimed series and his journey in bringing the story to its hilariously bitter close.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for David Mandel

David Mandel

executive producer Veep, Curb Your Enthusiasm; writer Seinfeld, Saturday Night Live; writer/director Eurotrip
David Mandel is the two-time Emmy Award-winning show runner and Executive Producer of Veep.  Besides Veep where he has been nominated for two writing Emmys, he also wrote for such shows as Saturday Night Live (92-95), Seinfeld where he wrote the “The Bizarro Jerry” (aka “Man-Hands... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Bethell Hall
  Conference

10:45am CDT

Playwriting Track: From Stage to Page – Screenwriting as a Playwright
Sit down for a conversation that ventures off the screen, onto the stage, and then back again. Featuring a panel of writers who have worked in both theatre, film, and television, this discussion will pull back the curtain on ways their experiences as playwrights have positively affected their craft as screenwriters.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Sofia Alvarez

Sofia Alvarez

playwright; screenwriter To All the Boys I've Loved Before
Sofia Alvarez is a playwright and screenwriter. She recently adapted Jenny Han’s bestselling novel To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before which premiered on Netflix in August 2018. She is currently working on the sequel, PS I Still Love You also for Netflix. She is writing a film adaptation... Read More →
avatar for Laura Eason

Laura Eason

writer/producer The Loudest Voice, Here and Now; playwright Sex with Strangers
Laura Eason is a Brooklyn-based playwright, screenwriter and producer.Her writing/producing credits for TV include The Loudest Voice for Showtime and four seasons on Netflix’s House of Cards (Emmy Nomination for Drama Series, WGA Nomination for Writing in a Drama Series.) Laura's... Read More →
avatar for Bekah Brunstetter

Bekah Brunstetter

writer/producer This is Us; playwright The Cake
Bekah’s plays include The Cake (The Echo Theater; MTC Spring 2019), Going to a Place where you already Are (South Coast Repertory), The Oregon Trail (Portland Center Stage, O’Neill Playwrights Conference; Flying V) Be A Good Little Widow (Ars Nova), and Oohrah! (The Atlantic... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, Playwriting Track

10:45am CDT

Podcast Track: Script to Sound
Want to know what it takes to bring a fiction podcast to life? Join audio fiction creator Lauren Shippen and sound designer Mischa Stanton as they take us through the process of developing an episode and the podcast's journey from script to sound.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Lauren Shippen

Lauren Shippen

creator The Bright Sessions, The AM Archives; CEO, Atypical Artists
Lauren Shippen is a writer most known for her work in fiction podcasts. She was the creator and sole writer of the popular audio drama The Bright Sessions, which ran from 2015 to 2018. She went on to executive produce The AM Archives and co-produce Passenger List before founding Atypical... Read More →
avatar for Mischa Stanton

Mischa Stanton

sound designer LeVar Burton Reads, The Bright Sessions, The AM Archives; executive producer The Whisperforge
Mischa Stanton is an audio sorcerer, plying their trade producing lush, immersive soundscapes for over a dozen fiction & storytelling podcasts. Since turning pro in 2016 they have personally created over 350 podcast episodes, hours upon hours of content for shows such as LeVar Burton... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Podcast Track

10:45am CDT

The Art of Storytelling with David Benioff, Sarah Green, Catherine Reitman, and D.B. Weiss
In this panel, Awardees David Benioff, Sarah Green, Catherine Reitman, and D.B. Weiss will come together for a conversation on their different approaches to finding, developing, and maintaining your voice in the industry and how establishing that voice can improve and inform your craft as a storyteller.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Barry Josephson

Barry Josephson

Josephson Entertainment; Film - producer Enchanted, Dirty Grandpa, The Last Boy Scout; TV - executive producer The Tick, TURN: Washington Spies, Bones

Speakers
avatar for Catherine Reitman

Catherine Reitman

2019 Recipient of the New Voice Award
Catherine Reitman is an actress, comedian, producer, writer and director best known as the creator and star of the acclaimed two time International Emmy® Award nominated series Workin Moms', which originally aired on CBC in Canada and can now be seen internationally as a Netflix... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Green

Sarah Green

2019 Recipient of the Polly Platt Award for Producing
Oscar- and Emmy-nominated producer Sarah Green is known for powerful auteur-driven independent films and television.Her most recent production, HBO's "Fahrenheit 451" was written and directed by Ramin Bahrani and starred Michael B. Jordan and Michael Shannon. The film was nominated... Read More →
avatar for David Benioff

David Benioff

2019 Recipient of the Outstanding Television Writer Award
David Benioff adapted his first novel, The 25th Hour, into a feature film directed by Spike Lee. His second novel, City of Thieves, has been translated into thirty-five languages. His screenplays include The Kite Runner, Brothers, Troy, and Stay. Stories from his collection When the... Read More →
avatar for D.B. Weiss

D.B. Weiss

2019 Recipient of the Outstanding Television Writer Award
D.B. Weiss is the author of Lucky Wander Boy. He co-created and executive produces the Emmy Award-winning Game of Thrones for HBO. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and two sons.

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

The Hardest Scene: Overcoming Common Challenges
Difficult subject matter, impossible studio asks, and the infamous wrath of writers block…Panelists will discuss the scenes that were the hardest for them to tackle, and their best advice for overcoming obstacles and finding the inspiration you need to power through.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Aaron Tracy

Aaron Tracy

writer/producer Sequestered, Law & Order SVU, The Tap; host To Live & Dialogue In LA; Faculty, Yale University

Speakers
avatar for Meg LeFauve

Meg LeFauve

writer Inside Out, Captain Marvel, Good Dinosaur
Nominated for a 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 Hulu and the animated film MY FATHER’S DRAGON... Read More →
avatar for Dave Kajganich

Dave Kajganich

creator/showrunner The Terror; writer/producer Suspiria, writer/executive producer A Bigger Splash; writer True Story
Dave is a screenwriter and producer in both television and features, having come to filmmaking from studying fiction writing at the University of Iowa Writers Workshop. He's most recently written an adaptation of Tim Winton's THE RIDERS for Ridley Scott, an adaptation of the YA novel... Read More →
avatar for Carly Wray

Carly Wray

writer/producer Westworld, The Leftovers, Mindhunter, Mad Men
Carly Wray is an award-winning television writer, producer, and screenwriter. A graduate of Reed College and USC's School of Cinematic Arts, Wray got her start on MAD MEN, where she began as the writers’ assistant and ultimately won a Writers Guild Award for the show's final season... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

The Screenwriters Toolbox: Action & Description
Character development and dialogue can only take you so far. It’s action that drives your story forward, and as the most visual component of any screenplay, it can be a daunting task to put it into words. Panelists will discuss writing action and description for a script and give their advice for writing scenes that translate seamlessly from script to screen.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Greg Garrett

Greg Garrett

moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Speakers
avatar for Oren Uziel

Oren Uziel

writer/director Shimmer Lake; writer 22 Jump Street, Freaks of Nature, The Cloverfield Paradox
Oren Uziel wrote and directed, SHIMMER LAKE, which previously won an award at the Austin Film Festival Screenwriting Competition. His other credits include 22 JUMP STREET, THE CLOVERFIELD PARADOX and FREAKS OF NATURE. He’s currently writing the sequel to DETECTIVE PIKACHU as well... Read More →
avatar for Alex Tse

Alex Tse

co-creator/co-showrunner Wu-Tang: An American Saga; writer Watchmen, Superfly, Sucker Free City
Alex Tse’s credits include Watchmen, Superfly and the Spike Lee directed Sucker Free City, an original movie for Showtime for which he won a PEN Award.  Over his career, Tse has written projects for directors Michael Mann, Zack Snyder, Justin Lin, Guy Ritchie and James Mangold... Read More →
avatar for Emily Carmichael

Emily Carmichael

writer Jurassic World 3, Pacific Rim: Uprising, The Black Hole
Emily Carmichael. Emily is a writer and director of science fiction, fantasy, and action movies. Her short films have screened at Sundance, Slamdance, SXSW, Tribeca, and numerous other top festivals all around the world. The success of these shorts had Nerdist calling her a “talented... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

The Writer's Team
What does the writer/manager/agent relationship look like, and how these different representatives work together to help get your career off the ground? Lit Entertainment manager Adam Kolbrenner and Verve partner David Boxerbaum will sit down for discussion on building your writers team, what to expect from an agent versus a manger, and how these reps can help take your writing career to the next level.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Tim Albaugh

Tim Albaugh

moderator; Producer; Director, Hollins University Graduate Screenwriting Program, Co-Founder ProPath Screenwriting
avatar for Adam Kolbrenner

Adam Kolbrenner

producer Prisoners, Deadfall; Literary Manager, Lit Entertainment
Adam Kolbrenner is the founder of Lit Entertainment Group, a newly launched literary management andproduction company based in Century City, CA. Previously Kolbrenner co-founded MadhouseEntertainment.Kolbrenner produced Oscar-nominated film, Prisoners, for Warner Bros/Alcon Entertainment... Read More →
avatar for David Boxerbaum

David Boxerbaum

Partner, Verve Talent & Literary Agency

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Omni Hotel, Lonestar Room 700 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

Writing to Direct: Big Budget Blockbusters
Directing your own script gives you more creative freedom and more responsibilities, especially in the world of big blockbuster films, which seem to go hand in hand with even bigger budget expectations. Hear from experienced writer/directors of Hollywood hits on how the two roles inform and affect one another and how responsibilities shift once you’re in the director’s chair.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Harrison Glaser

Harrison Glaser

moderator; Former Film Competition Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Shane Black

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... Read More →
avatar for Ric Roman Waugh

Ric Roman Waugh

writer/director/producer Felon, Snitch, Shot Caller, That Which I Love Destroys Me, Angel Has Fallen, Greenland

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

10:45am CDT

WORK IN PROGRESS: Structure to Scenes
We believe it is not a writer’s level of talent that determines their success, but rather how they work with and manage that talent. In WORK IN PROGRESS, Ed Solomon and Max Borenstein (with special guests) will lead a question and answer workshop using the writing issues attendees are currently facing as a backdrop to discuss the real thing that separates the pros from the not-yet pros: the ability to assess, mine and cultivate one’s own unique gifts, and to keep them growing throughout a lifetime. Participants are requested to come prepared with questions on specific issues they are facing while moving from Structure to Scenes.

THIS IS AN EXTENDED PANEL THAT WILL END AT 12:45PM.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Ed Solomon

Ed Solomon

writer HBO’s Mosaic, Men in Black, Untitled Steven Soderbergh feature; co-writer Bill & Ted Face the Music, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Now You See Me 1 & 2, It's Garry Shandling's Show, Untitled David O Russell feature
When Bill & Ted Face the Music comes out in 2020, Ed Solomon will have had a major filmreleased in each of the last 5 decades, starting in 1989 with his (and co-writer Chris Matheson’s)first feature, Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. The 90’s saw Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Men... Read More →
avatar for Max Borenstein

Max Borenstein

creator The Terror: Infamy, Untitled Showtime Lakers Project (2020, HBO), Untitled Game of Thrones Spinoff, Minority Report; writer: Godzilla (2014), Kong: Skull Island, Godzilla 2, Godzilla v. Kong (2020), What is Life Worth (2020)
Max Borenstein wrote the script for 2014’s blockbuster GODZILLA, as well as KONG: SKULL ISLAND, GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS (story), and the forthcoming GODZILLA V. KONG.His next film as writer and producer, the drama WHAT IS LIFE WORTH, based on Kenneth Feinberg's memoir of... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 10:45am - 12:45pm CDT
The Omni Hotel, Austin Room 700 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

12:30pm CDT

A Conversation with Harry Elfont and Deborah Kaplan
Join Harry Elfont and Deborah Kaplan, the creative team behind cult classics like Can’t Hardly Wait, Josie and the Pussycats, and A Very Brady Sequel and creators of the popular YouTube comedy series Liza On Demand starring Liza Koshy for an in-depth look into their career as writing partners. In this panel, the pair will discuss their writing process and the benefits and challenges of developing a project for an online platform after a longstanding career in the world of traditional features.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Erin Hallagan

Erin Hallagan

Moderator; Founder/Artistic Director, Story Bar; former Creative Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Harry Elfont

Harry Elfont

co-writer Can’t Hardly Wait, Josie and the Pussycats, A Very Brady Sequel, Leap Year; co-creator Mary + Jane, Liza on Demand
Deborah Kaplan and Harry Elfont both grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia and met attending NYU film school. They have written and directed the films Can’t Hardly Wait and Josie and the Pussycats. Their screenwriting credits include A Very Brady Sequel, Made of Honor and Leap... Read More →
avatar for Deborah Kaplan

Deborah Kaplan

co-writer Can’t Hardly Wait, Josie and the Pussycats, A Very Brady Sequel, Leap Year; co-creator Mary + Jane, Liza on Demand
Deborah Kaplan and Harry Elfont both grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia and met attending NYU film school. They have written and directed the films Can’t Hardly Wait and Josie and the Pussycats. Their screenwriting credits include A Very Brady Sequel, Made of Honor and Leap... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church, Sanctuary 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, New Media Track

12:30pm CDT

A Conversation with Liz Hannah
Writer Liz Hannah burst onto the scene with her first screenplay The Post, a political thriller that was sold on spec and went on to be produced/directed by Steven Spielberg. In this panel, Hannah will reflect on her burgeoning career, from her sudden rise in the industry to the recent release of her modern rom com Long Shot starring Seth Rogan and Charlize Theron and her role as writer/producer on the Netflix true crime series Mindhunter.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Greg Garrett

Greg Garrett

moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Speakers
avatar for Liz Hannah

Liz Hannah

writer/producer The Post, Long Shot, All the Bright Places, Mindhunter
Hannah is a Golden Globe and a Critics’ Choice Award nominee, and WGA Award winner, for her screenplay “The Post,” directed by Steven Spielberg, starring Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks. The film was nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Picture and Best Actress (Streep). The screenplay... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

12:30pm CDT

A Conversation with Megan Amram
Writer Megan Amram has made a name for herself in the world of television comedy, writing for beloved series like The Good Place, Parks & Recreation, and Silicon Valley. Most recently, Amram has expanded her comedy writing to the world of digital media with her Emmy-nominated web series, An Emmy for Megan, that explores the minimum requirements to win an Emmy. Join Amram for a conversation on her successful career writing TV comedies and her recent transition into scripted digital series.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for John Merriman

John Merriman

moderator; actor I've Got Issues, Mustang Island, Sister Aimee
John Merriman is an award winning actor and filmmaker. He 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... Read More →
avatar for Megan Amram

Megan Amram

writer/producer The Good Place, The Simpsons, Transparent, Silicon Valley, Parks & Recreation; actor/director/star An Emmy For Megan; author Science...For Her!
Megan Amram is a comedy writer and performer currently working on the NBC series The Good Place. Previously, Megan was a writer on the acclaimed Amazon series Transparent, HBO’s Silicon Valley, and the final three seasons of the NBC comedy Parks and Recreation. Her other past... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

12:30pm CDT

How Do You Know When You're Finished?
Writing is rewriting… and rewriting and rewriting and rewriting. Revisions are a crucial part of the writing process, but sometimes it can be hard to know when to put down the pen. In this panel we’ll talk finishing scripts, trusting your gut, and finding your ‘Fade to Black’.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Jorge Gonzalez

Speakers
avatar for Scott Rosenberg

Scott Rosenberg

writer Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle, Venom, Con Air, Beautiful Girls
Scott Rosenberg has written the screenplays “THINGS TO IN DENVER WHEN YOU’RE DEAD”, “BEAUTIFUL GIRLS”, “CON AIR”, “DISTURBING BEHAVIOR”, “GONE IN 60 SECONDS”, and “HIGHWAY”.He co-wrote “HIGH FIDELITY” and “KANGAROO JACK”. As well as created and produced... Read More →
avatar for Victoria Strouse

Victoria Strouse

writer Finding Dory
Just out of film school, Victoria Strouse sold her first screenplay to MGM. It waslater made into the feature film NEW BEST FRIEND. Her second screenplay,JUST LIKE A WOMAN, was sold, after a bidding war, to Newline Cinema. Inbetween script sales, she has been hired to write for every... Read More →
avatar for Jeffrey Lieber

Jeffrey Lieber

writer/showrunner Lost, Miami Medical, AIsha, NCIS New Orleans
Jeffrey Lieber is a former actor and playwright, who became a showrunner and a dad and a mad-ass progressive and big over-user of ellipses. And... oh... you get the gist. Lost, Miami Medical, AIsha (upcoming), NCIS New Orleans and other random adventures.

Saturday October 26, 2019 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

12:30pm CDT

On Writing Horror
From suspenseful scares to urban legends and classic movie monsters, horror stories rely on the psychology of fear to thrill and chill us with the things that we fear most. In this panel, the genre’s leading writers from both film and television will sit down to discuss the scripts behind the scares and their advice for writing a horror film that kills.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Paul Alvarado-Dykstra

Paul Alvarado-Dykstra

moderator
Paul Alvarado-Dykstra is VP of Operations and Marketing for New Sky Pictures, overseeing development and production for their New Sky Kids channel, which has over 2 million subscribers and 1.5 billion views worldwide on YouTube, and will soon launch an ad-free premium subscription... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Akela Cooper

Akela Cooper

writer Nun 2, Jupiter's Legacy, Hell Fest; writer/producer Luke Cage, American Horror Story: Roanoake, producer Witches of East End, The 100, Grimm
Akela Cooper is currently set to write the next installment in James Wan’s CONJURING universe, NUN 2, produced by New Line. Additionally, she is set to write the upcoming Netflix series, JUPITER’S LEGACY, based on Mark Millar’s comic book by the same name. Akela recently finished... Read More →
avatar for Owen Egerton

Owen Egerton

writer/director Blood Fest, Follow, Mercy Black

Saturday October 26, 2019 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

12:30pm CDT

Podcast Track: The Production Side
What does production look like for a scripted podcast, and what are the steps for getting your project made? In this panel, fiction podcast producers will discuss taking an audio-only script through the production process and the nitty gritty of producing audio fiction.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Graham

Lindsay Graham

executive producer Terms, 1865; host of American History Tellers and American Scandal
Lindsay Graham is the Webby Award-winning host of the podcasts American History Tellers and American Scandal, and the executive producer of the audio dramas 1865 and Terms. He is a sound designer, composer and podcast producer who has worked on Dirty John, Dr. Death, Business Wars... Read More →
avatar for Travis Vengroff

Travis Vengroff

producer/sound designer The White Vault, VAST Horizon, Liberty, Dark Dice
Travis Vengroff is the producer of The White Vault, VAST Horizon, Liberty, and Dark Dice. With a strong tendency toward creativity, Travis attended the New York Film Academy, the Allegro Music Academy, and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh with bachelor’s degrees from the Universities... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Podcast Track

12:30pm CDT

TV Support Staff
Get inside a TV writers room from the people at the ground level who help make everything possible: a Writers’ Assistant, Script Coordinator, and Showrunners’ Assistant. Have you ever wondered how to break into a room, or what the roles of the support staff looked like? Panelists will share stories of how they landed their jobs, explain their day to day roles and responsibilities, and give advice about ways to navigate the job with success.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Daniel F. Pérez

Daniel F. Pérez

writer's assistant, Euphoria; Founding member, The Clubhouse (a collection of gay LatinX screenwriters)
Born to a pair of very sensible Miami Cubans, Daniel F. Pérez spent a nomadic childhood in Texas, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, New Jersey, and Florida before moving to New York for college. After NYU, he went to Spain to teach English in the public school system, living first with... Read More →
avatar for Micah Cyrus

Micah Cyrus

writers' assistant All American; consulting producer Dead Girls Detective Agency; former writers' assistant Step Up High Water, The Resident
Micah currently serves as the Writers’ Assistant on All American (CW). Previously, he was a Consulting Producer on Dead Girls Detective Agency (Snapchat). Micah has also served as the Writers’ Assistant on Season 2 of the Lionsgate/YouTube Premium series, Step Up High Water and... Read More →
avatar for Kristina Thomas

Kristina Thomas

script coordinator The New Edition Story, Being Mary Jane, Rebel, Lovecraft Country, The Haunting of Bly Manor
Winner of the Writers Assistant Network Pilot Workshop and former staff writer on the webseries The Rise of Theo and the Romeos for Issa Rae's production company, Writer-Director Kristina Thomas first showed her potential in the documentary side of filmmaking by winning awards that... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

12:30pm CDT

Writing Across Mediums
With the continued rise of new and emerging mediums, there are more opportunities than ever for writers to share their stories. Join these panelists who have built a career writing across mediums for their advice on using new forms of storytelling as a calling card for breaking in and getting your story out there.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Samantha Levenshus

Samantha Levenshus

writer Neon Future (comic book), The Grimm World (play), Holy Unexpected (tv); Development Executive, Script Pipeline
Samantha Levenshus works as a writer in sunny Santa Monica. She recently finished work on Steve Aoki’s comic book series NEON FUTURE, which she co-wrote with Eisner Award-winner Jim Krueger. Her love for characters and storytelling was born in theater and, as a playwright, she’s... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Matthew Derby

Matthew Derby

writer Phreaks, Sandra, The Silent History, Super Flat Times
Matthew Derby is the author of Phreaks, an Audible Original scripted audio narrative launching in January 2020. He also co-wrote the Gimlet scripted podcast Sandra and The Silent History, the first digital novel written and designed specifically for the iPhone, later released as a... Read More →
avatar for Lauren Shippen

Lauren Shippen

creator The Bright Sessions, The AM Archives; CEO, Atypical Artists
Lauren Shippen is a writer most known for her work in fiction podcasts. She was the creator and sole writer of the popular audio drama The Bright Sessions, which ran from 2015 to 2018. She went on to executive produce The AM Archives and co-produce Passenger List before founding Atypical... Read More →
avatar for Steven Walters

Steven Walters

head writer/co-creator/co-executive producer 1865: the Audio Drama; writer American Scandal, American History Tellers
Steven Walters is a Los Angeles based writer, director, actor and producer. Steven is a former member of the resident company at Dallas Theater Center in addition to being a co-founder of Second Thought Theatre in Dallas, Texas. As an actor, Steven is best known for his role on NBC's... Read More →
avatar for Kirk Lynn

Kirk Lynn

The Method Gun; head of the Department of Theatre and Dance at UT; the Artistic Director of The Rude Mechanicals
Kirk Lynn is a novelist and playwright living in Austin, TX with his wife, the poet Carrie Fountain, and their children, Olive and Judah. Kirk is one of five artistic directors of the Rude Mechs theatre collective. With the Rudes Kirk has written and adapted many plays, including... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, Playwriting Track

12:30pm CDT

Writing for Video Games
Video games have developed from small, linear play-through adventures to massive multiplayer games with open worlds and alternate endings. So how has this growing commitment to story changed the experience of writing for the medium? Join these panelists for a conversation on writing the modern video game and the challenges and opportunities that come with interactive storytelling.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Susan O'Connor

Susan O'Connor

Story Consultant, Netflix; Lead Writer, Torn (PlayStation VR); Story Consultant, Batman (Telltale); Lead Writer, Star Wars 1313 (LucasArts); Story Consultant, Dishonored 2 (Bethesda); Writer, Tomb Raider (Crystal Dynamics); Lead Writer, Far Cry 2 (Ubisoft); Writer, BioShock (2K)
Susan O'Connor tells stories for a living. Award-winning titles in her portfolio (including BioShock, Far Cry 2, and Tomb Raider) have sold over 30 million copies and generated over half a billion dollars in sales. She also teaches a course in interactive storytelling at UT Austin... Read More →
avatar for Emily Zulauf

Emily Zulauf

Narrative Director, Probably Monsters Games; Creative Development Associate, Pixar Animation Studios
avatar for Angela Petrella

Angela Petrella

writer Dear Angelica, Stone Quackers, Recipe
Angela Petrella is a writer and director. She has worked with Pixar, Fox, Cartoon Network and Oculus for television, features, new media and virtual reality. Her career began at McSweeney’s publishing where she published her first children’s picture book, Recipe. Currently, she’s... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Omni Hotel, Lonestar Room 700 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, New Media Track

12:30pm CDT

Writing to Direct: Indies
What does it take to write and direct your own film? Join this panel of writer/directors for a conversation on how the writing process differs when you’re also directing and the obstacles and advantages that come with wearing multiple hats.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Courtenay Hameister

Courtenay Hameister

moderator; host PRI's Live Wire 2003-2013; co-writer The Benefits of Gusbandry; author Okay Fine Whatever: The Year I Went From Being Afraid of Everything to Only Being Afraid of Most Things

Speakers
avatar for Nicole Perlman

Nicole Perlman

writer Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain Marvel, Detective Pikachu
Nicole Perlman is best known for her work on “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Captain Marvel,” and “Detective Pikachu." Nicole received her BFA in filmmaking from NYU in 2003, and has gone on to win the Tribeca Film Festival's Sloan Foundation Grant for Science in Film, the Hugo... Read More →
avatar for Brandon Dickerson

Brandon Dickerson

writer/director Sironia, Victor, Amanda & Jack Go Glamping; writer Benji the Dove; director A Single Frame
BRANDON DICKERSON is an award-winning writer/director/producer honored for his work in film, documentaries, commercials, and music videos—including the coveted Cannes Gold Lion. After building a career directing hundreds of commercials and music videos, Dickerson shifted his focus... Read More →
avatar for Jason Headley

Jason Headley

writer Pixar's Onward (2020), writer/director A Bad Idea Gone Wrong, It's Not About the Nail
Jason Headley is the co-writer of Pixar’s upcoming film “Onward.” He wrote and directed the feature film "A Bad Idea Gone Wrong" which won a Special Jury Prize at the 2017 SXSW Film Festival. His short films—including the viral videos "It's Not About the Nail" and "F*ck That... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

1:00pm CDT

Otter Network Demo!
Otter Network makes Otter Director, the simplest, most cost-effective streaming video platform available. Shoot professional 3 camera shoots with the mobile devices you have on your desk or in your pocket. It's a production truck in a backpack.

Free and open to the public!
Saturday October 26, 2019 1:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Austin Film Festival Tent at the Paramount 713 Congress Ave.
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

A Conversation with David Benioff & D.B. Weiss: The 2019 Outstanding Television Award Recipients
Our watch may have ended, but for the writers behind the groundbreaking series Game of Thrones, our questions have only just begun. Join the series’ showrunners and our 2019 Outstanding Television Writer Awardees David Benioff and D.B. Weiss for an in-depth look into the process of adapting George R. R. Martin’s bestselling books into the epic HBO series that changed the landscape of modern television.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for David Benioff

David Benioff

2019 Recipient of the Outstanding Television Writer Award
David Benioff adapted his first novel, The 25th Hour, into a feature film directed by Spike Lee. His second novel, City of Thieves, has been translated into thirty-five languages. His screenplays include The Kite Runner, Brothers, Troy, and Stay. Stories from his collection When the... Read More →
avatar for D.B. Weiss

D.B. Weiss

2019 Recipient of the Outstanding Television Writer Award
D.B. Weiss is the author of Lucky Wander Boy. He co-created and executive produces the Emmy Award-winning Game of Thrones for HBO. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and two sons.

Saturday October 26, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, On Story

3:00pm CDT

First Man, Midway, 12 Strong, Greenland: Partnering with the Department of Defense to Enhance Military Depiction
Learn how independent and studio filmmakers secure a F-22 fighter jets, naval aircraft carriers, Apache helicopters and rugged Marines into their films. Find out how to research heroic characters, distinctive locations and compelling events to shape your story. Each of the military services are actively seeking opportunities to educate and inform the American public on the honor, courage and culture of active duty men and women serving around the world — placing these historic locations, dynamic individuals, engaging narratives and amazing visuals into your production may seem like an impossible mission — but we’ll show you how to affordably and effectively enhance your film’s creative with the help our nation’s uniformed services. Hear how the Directors of the divisions charged with protecting and projecting the image of the United States military can enhance your production to work alongside America’s Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Coast Guard.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Barry Josephson

Barry Josephson

Josephson Entertainment; Film - producer Enchanted, Dirty Grandpa, The Last Boy Scout; TV - executive producer The Tick, TURN: Washington Spies, Bones

Speakers
avatar for CDR Steven Youde

CDR Steven Youde

Director, Coast Guard Motion Picture and Television Office
CDR Steven Youde is the Director of the Coast Guard Motion Picture and Television Office in Los Angeles, California. He serves as the Coast Guard’s primary liaison to the entertainment industry ensuring accurate and impactful portrayal of service missions and values across entertainment... Read More →
avatar for Ric Roman Waugh

Ric Roman Waugh

writer/director/producer Felon, Snitch, Shot Caller, That Which I Love Destroys Me, Angel Has Fallen, Greenland
avatar for Lt. Col Nathan Broshear

Lt. Col Nathan Broshear

Director, Secretary of the Air Force Entertainment Liaison Office
Lt Col Nathan Broshear is the Director of the Secretary of the Air Force Entertainment Liaison Office in Los Angeles, California. In this role, Lt Col Broshear shapes Air Force support to film, television, streaming and game productions to shape Department of the Air Force support... Read More →
avatar for Adam M. Clampitt

Adam M. Clampitt

Officer-in-Charge, NR Navy Office of Information, West
Commander Adam Clampitt, a Reserve Navy Public Affairs Officer, is the Officer-in-Charge Navy Office of Information - West (NR NAVINFO – West) where he oversees the Reserve unit providing assistance to entertainment industry productions.   Clampitt came to NR NAVINFO – West after... Read More →
avatar for Ken Hawes

Ken Hawes

Director of US Army's Public Affairs Office, Western Region
Ken Hawes is the Director of the US Army's Public Affairs Office, Western Region, located in Los Angeles, CA.His office is the entertainment industry's direct liaison to the Army, leveraging its direct interface with members of the entertainment industry to ensure Army-supported projects... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church, Sanctuary 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

New Media Track: A Conversation with Rooster Teeth
Digital entertainment company Rooster Teeth has created a media empire, staking their claim as one of the primary sources for new content in the world of original series, podcasts, online features, and everything in between. With what seems like an unlimited supply of fresh content across various media platforms, Rooster Teeth has become a major player in the digital storytelling industry. In this panel, we’ll sit down with a few of the company’s creatives and content creators to discuss their process for curating content and what’s next for the world of new media.

ABOUT ROOSTER TEETH
Rooster Teeth is a pioneering media and entertainment company responsible for some of the biggest online series in history, such as the award-winning and longest-running web series, Red vs. Blue. They also produce the globally acclaimed animated series RWBY, the first western anime series to be distributed in Japan; the award-winning Rooster Teeth Podcast; and Immersion, a reality format that brings video game theory to the real world. Rooster Teeth has a massive global footprint of more than 45 million subscribers to its YouTube Network, 5 million unique monthly visitors to its RoosterTeeth.com hub and 3 million registered community members. The company was founded in 2003, and is now a subsidiary of Otter Media, a WarnerMedia company. Discover more at RoosterTeeth.com.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.

Speakers
avatar for Miles Luna

Miles Luna

Head Writer of Animation, Rooster Teeth; director
Miles Luna is a director and head writer for Animation at Rooster Teeth, as well as a seasoned voice actor. Some of his most notable works include Camp Camp, Red vs. Blue, and the worldwide phenomenon RWBY. In addition to his work in animation, he is a frequent on-camera personality... Read More →
avatar for Andrew Rosas

Andrew Rosas

Head Writer of RT Shorts, Rooster Teeth; writer/performer, Master Pancake Theater
Andrew Rosas has been writing and performing comedy since 2008. He started writing sketch with Stag Comedy and then became a core member of the popular Austin movie-mocking institution, Master Pancake Theater in 2011. In 2016 he began writing and directing for Rooster Teeth and in... Read More →
avatar for Chris Demarais

Chris Demarais

Head Writer of Live Action, Rooster Teeth; co-creator/director Arizona Circle, Social Disorder, Day 5
Chris Demarais is one of the lead creatives at Rooster Teeth and the co-creator of the hit shows Arizona Circle, Social Disorder, and Day 5. He's also a writer and director on some of the company's most high profile projects including Immersion, RT Shorts, this bio, and Lazer Team... Read More →
avatar for Burnie Burns

Burnie Burns

Co-founder/Chief Creative Officer, Rooster Teeth; creator Red vs. Blue; writer/actor Lazer Team
Burnie Burns is the co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Rooster Teeth, creator of the visionary web series Red vs. Blue and writer and actor in the Lazer Team film series. Over the last decade, Burnie helped build Rooster Teeth from a small web company into a mega entertainment... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Omni Hotel, Lonestar Room 700 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, New Media Track

3:00pm CDT

Podcast Track: Monetizing Your Podcast --Networks vs DIY presented by Authentic
You're thinking of launching a podcast but you're not sure if you should sign with a network or do things on your own. Join industry professionals as they discuss the different ways of monetizing a podcast. Walk away knowing the options you have to see a return on your creative investment.

This panel is presented by Authentic.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Scott Conroy

Scott Conroy

writer/creator Blackout, Embeds; author Vote First Or Die, Sarah From Alaska
Scott Conroy is the creator and executive producer of “Blackout,” an 8-episode scripted podcast starring Rami Malek. Scott’s screenplay, “Analytica,” was optioned by Imagine Entertainment and was featured on the 2018 Black List. His limited series, “Trump: It Happened... Read More →
avatar for Bernie Su

Bernie Su

creator/executive producer/showrunner Artificial, The Lizzie Bennet Diaries, Emma Approved
Bernie Su is a three-time Primetime Emmy and Peabody Award-winning interactive storyteller, creator, and showrunner.Su recently won his third Primetime Emmy for "Artificial," the first-ever live and interactive science fiction series to debut on Twitch. The series is a fully scripted... Read More →
avatar for Tim Street

Tim Street

Vice President Influence and Production, Authentic
Tim is a writer, director and is the producer of two podcasts to reach number one on Apple Podcasts. He also serves as Vice President of Influence and Production at Authentic.Tim began his career producing such Nickelodeon shows like All That and What Would You Do? and has created... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Authentic

Saturday October 26, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Podcast Track

3:00pm CDT

Structuring a Series
Whether you're dealing with an individual episode, a season, or an entire series, a show's structure is key in developing the tone and pacing of your project. Learn what developing a show's structure looks like in the writers room and how to find the best format for your story.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Alex Freedman

Alex Freedman

writer/creator TV Calling; co-host Paper Team
Alex Freedman is a French-American drama writer from Paris, who most recently worked on the second season of Netflix's ALTERED CARBON.After studying film and production at the Sorbonne University, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in television writing. He has also worked... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Aaron Ginsburg

Aaron Ginsburg

co-executive Producer/writer New Amsterdam, The 100
Aaron Ginsburg is a writer/producer who has worked in television and film in Los Angeles for over a decade. He is currently a Co-Executive Producer on NBC’s hit medical drama, New Amsterdam. Before that, he was a Co-Executive Producer on CW’s critically acclaimed Sci-Fi drama... Read More →
avatar for Nichelle Tramble Spellman

Nichelle Tramble Spellman

showrunner/creator Truth Be Told; writer/producer The Good Wife; writer Justified; novelist The Dying Ground, The Last King
Nichelle Tramble Spellman is Creator/Showrunner of the forthcoming Apple drama series, TRUTH BE TOLD, starring Octavia Spencer, Aaron Paul and Lizzy Caplan, based on the novel by Kathleen Barber. Tramble Spellman was also an Executive Producer on Amazon's A BRIEF HISTORY OF SEVEN... Read More →
avatar for Steve Conrad

Steve Conrad

writer/creator/executive producer Perpetual Grace, LTD, Patriot; writer The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, The Pursuit of Happyness, The Weather Man
Steven Conrad is the writer of The Pursuit of Happyness, The Weather Man, and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. He also writes and directs the Amazon series Patriot and the forthcoming Epix series Perpetual Grace, LTD.

Saturday October 26, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

The Managers
With managers serving more and more as the primary source of representation for working writers, finding a literary manager has become an important step in jumpstarting your career. In this panel, managers will share their advice on finding representation, what they look for in new writers, and what to expect from the writer/manager relationship.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Trey Selman

Trey Selman

moderator

Speakers
avatar for Conrad Sun

Conrad Sun

Literary Manager, Meridian Artists
Conrad Sun joined Meridian Artists in 2014 to head their Los Angeles Division. Conrad devotes his efforts toward building the Los Angeles roster, and supporting all of Meridian's LA based clients for both staffing and development. Additionally Conrad works with the Toronto office... Read More →
avatar for Marc Manus

Marc Manus

Manager/Producer, Zero Gravity Management
Marc Manus is a former award-winning photojournalist who attended USC film school before entering the field of artist representation. His first job was with manager Cathryn Jaymes, who represented the Academy Award-winning writer/director Quentin Tarantino, among others. After a brief... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

The Power of True Stories to Drive Change co-presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and ScreenCraft
When it comes to making films that change hearts and minds, nothing is as powerful as “Based on a True Story.” Great stories, well told, can highlight injustice, communicate compelling issues, and move people to rise up to action. But can any real-world protagonist be a perfect hero? And what happens when the real life events don’t line up with three acts?

Join us as we ask some of the most accomplished writers and filmmakers of biopics and true-life narratives how they tackle these complex issues, and how they stay grounded at the intersection of real life and fiction.

This panel is co-presented by The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and ScreenCraft.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Matt Dy

Matt Dy

Manager, Lit Entertainment Group; Former Director of Script Competitions, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for David Rabinowitz

David Rabinowitz

co-writer BlacKkKlansman
David Rabinowitz is an Academy Award-winning co-writer of the Spike Lee film BlacKkKlansman. He got his start working as a multimedia producer for the Wall Street Journal. Since, he's worked as a freelance video editor, motion graphics artist, and screenwriter. David is from East... Read More →
avatar for Barbara Stepansky

Barbara Stepansky

writer Flint; 2013 Nicholl Fellow
Barbara Stepansky is a WGA Award winner, a Nicholl Fellow and an award-winning independent film director. Born in Poland, her father's involvement in the Solidarity movement led to the family relocating to Germany. After receiving a degree in philosophy of science from University... Read More →
avatar for Doug Atchison

Doug Atchison

writer Brian Banks; writer/director Akeelah and the Bee
Doug Atchison wrote and directed the award-winning feature film, Akeelah and the Bee, released by Lionsgate and starring Laurence Fishburne, Angela Bassett, and Keke Palmer.  Akeelah was a commercial and critical success for which Doug was awarded the NAACP Image Award for Best Screenplay... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Screen Craft
avatar for The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Saturday October 26, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

The Screenwriters Toolbox: Setting
Whenever and wherever your story takes place, a well-developed setting is crucial to writing a compelling narrative. This panel will tour different landscapes of setting in film and television and how space and time can influence the tone of your story.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Courtenay Hameister

Courtenay Hameister

moderator; host PRI's Live Wire 2003-2013; co-writer The Benefits of Gusbandry; author Okay Fine Whatever: The Year I Went From Being Afraid of Everything to Only Being Afraid of Most Things

Speakers
avatar for Dave Kajganich

Dave Kajganich

creator/showrunner The Terror; writer/producer Suspiria, writer/executive producer A Bigger Splash; writer True Story
Dave is a screenwriter and producer in both television and features, having come to filmmaking from studying fiction writing at the University of Iowa Writers Workshop. He's most recently written an adaptation of Tim Winton's THE RIDERS for Ridley Scott, an adaptation of the YA novel... Read More →
avatar for Ayanna Floyd Davis

Ayanna Floyd Davis

showrunner/writer The Chi; writer Private Practice, Hannibal, Falling Skies
Ayanna Floyd Davis has been making her mark as a writer and producer in the television industry for almost two decades. She has written and produced some of TV’s hottest series and has worked for some of the most renowned showrunners in the business. Most recently, Ayanna flexed... Read More →
avatar for Virgil Williams

Virgil Williams

co-writer Mudbound
A veteran television writer and producer, Williams’ extensive credits include the ground-breaking dramas “ER” and “24”, as well as Fox’s “The Chicago Code” and six seasons of CBS’s long-running procedural drama, “Criminal Minds”. In November of 2017 Williams... Read More →
avatar for Jeffrey Lieber

Jeffrey Lieber

writer/showrunner Lost, Miami Medical, AIsha, NCIS New Orleans
Jeffrey Lieber is a former actor and playwright, who became a showrunner and a dad and a mad-ass progressive and big over-user of ellipses. And... oh... you get the gist. Lost, Miami Medical, AIsha (upcoming), NCIS New Orleans and other random adventures.

Saturday October 26, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

Claymation Station
Come to the Austin Film Festival Tent for your chance to create the next animated classic! Austin Film Festival will have free Claymation activities for your family to make their own stop-motion animation.
Saturday October 26, 2019 3:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Austin Film Festival Tent at the Paramount 713 Congress Ave.
  Conference

4:45pm CDT

A Conversation with Lawrence Kasdan
Join legendary filmmaker, Lawrence Kasdan (Body Heat, The Big Chill, The Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark) for a conversation on the key ingredients for writing a successful screenplay and getting to the heart of your stories.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry. 
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Lawrence Kasdan

Lawrence Kasdan

writer/director Body Heat, The Big Chill, Silverado, Grand Canyon; writer The Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Return of the Jedi, The Force Awakens, Solo
LAWRENCE KASDAN is a four-time Oscar-nominated director and screenwriter whose writing credits include Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Solo. He directed and co-wrote Body Heat, The Big Chill, The Accidental Tourist, Silverado, Grand... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
Central Presbyterian Church, Sanctuary 200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

4:45pm CDT

Indie Film Track: Digital Series
What is the process for making a digital series and how does the medium differ from traditional film and television? Join this panel of digital series creators for a discussion on writing and producing your own digital series and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with creating for the digital space.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Gabbi Lindgren

Gabbi Lindgren

moderator; AFF Script Competitions Manager

Speakers
avatar for Brandon Garegnani

Brandon Garegnani

creator/writer SCRiBBLES
Brandon holds an MFA in Acting from UNC Chapel Hill (NC) and a BA in Theatre Arts from the University of Northern Colorado. As an actor, Brandon has worked at PlayMakers Repertory Co., Actors Theatre of Louisville, Little Theatre of the Rockies, New York Shakespeare Exchange and played... Read More →
avatar for Par Parekh

Par Parekh

creator The Happy
Born in Texas to Indian immigrants at the tail end of the Carter administration, Par Parekh zig-zagged across the country for most of his childhood, eventually graduating high school in New Jersey. After studying biology, philosophy, and film at Wesleyan University, Par worked in... Read More →
avatar for Lynnsey Ooten

Lynnsey Ooten

director/producer SCRiBBLES
Lynnsey is a New York transplant from Dickinson, Texas. She is a transient storyteller that has spent the last decade acting, directing and producing with a multitude of artists through the US. Though she has a strong theatre background, having graduated from the University of Northern... Read More →
avatar for Patrick Wimp

Patrick Wimp

writer/director/producer Brothers from the Suburbs
Patrick Wimp is a writer, producer, and storyteller who lives in Chicago, Illinois. As co-founder of the award-winning production house Digital Hydra, Pat writes for brands and develops independent film and television content all over the world. Pat is an active participant in the... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
The Omni Hotel, Lonestar Room 700 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, Indie Film Track

4:45pm CDT

On Writing: Comedy
Comedy writing is no joke. Whether you’re navigating the worlds of sketch and stand-up or developing a scripted film or television series, good comedy relies on mastering your voice and using it to forge a connection with your audience. Join this panel for a conversation on the ins and outs of comedy writing and harnessing humor as the heartbeat of your story.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Courtenay Hameister

Courtenay Hameister

moderator; host PRI's Live Wire 2003-2013; co-writer The Benefits of Gusbandry; author Okay Fine Whatever: The Year I Went From Being Afraid of Everything to Only Being Afraid of Most Things

Speakers
avatar for Rupinder Gill

Rupinder Gill

writer/producer Schitt's Creek, I Feel Bad, Indebted
Rupinder Gill is a writer/producer on the upcoming NBC comedy "Indebted", starring Fran Drescher, Steven Webber, Adam Pally and Abby Elliott, as well as the Eugene Levy/Catherine O’ Hara starrer “Schitt’s Creek”, for which she won a Writer's Guild of Canada award for best... Read More →
avatar for Tripper Clancy

Tripper Clancy

writer Stuber, Four Facing the Bank
After working in the Fox Writers Studio in 2011, Tripper has gone on to write comedies and dramas of all shapes and sizes for Columbia Pictures, 20th Century Fox, Amazon, Netflix, MGM, eOne, Fox Animation, Paramount Animation, Hasbro and even studios abroad. His credits include action-comedy... Read More →
avatar for Dayo Adesokan

Dayo Adesokan

writer Superstore, Downward Dog, Young & Hungry
Dayo Adesokan was born in Lagos, Nigeria, where he spent his childhood watching Fresh Prince of Bel-Air re-runs. When he was seven, his family won the Visa Lottery at next to nothing odds and moved to Chicago, Illinois. Growing up an outsider, he developed an early affinity for comedy... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

4:45pm CDT

Script to Sketch
Sure, animated film and television is a little more drawn than live action fare, but how different is the actual process of bringing it to the screen? This panel features guests that each play a different role in the animation process. They’ll discuss how a good animation script differs from its live action counterpart, the development process involved, and the transformation you should expect in post-production.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Emily Zulauf

Emily Zulauf

Narrative Director, Probably Monsters Games; Creative Development Associate, Pixar Animation Studios

Speakers
avatar for Angela Petrella

Angela Petrella

writer Dear Angelica, Stone Quackers, Recipe
Angela Petrella is a writer and director. She has worked with Pixar, Fox, Cartoon Network and Oculus for television, features, new media and virtual reality. Her career began at McSweeney’s publishing where she published her first children’s picture book, Recipe. Currently, she’s... Read More →
avatar for Katie Baron

Katie Baron

Vice President of Creative, Sony Pictures Animation
As Vice President of Creative at Sony Pictures Animation, Katie Baron has helped oversee a multitude of animated feature films, including the studio's latest release, the Academy Award® winner "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse."Currently, Baron is supporting "The Mitchells Vs. The... Read More →
avatar for Adam Pava

Adam Pava

writer The Boxtrolls, The Lego Movie franchise, My Little Pony Movie, The Stuff of Legend, Clone High, Harvey Birdman: Attorney At Law, Johnny Bravo, Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends
Adam Pava wrote the stop-motion hit The Boxtrolls, which earned a 2015 Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature. He contributed to multiple projects in the Lego Movie franchise at Warner Brothers, and has written screenplays for Disney, Dreamworks Animation, Fox, Paramount/Hasbro... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

4:45pm CDT

The Fine Print: Contract and Options
Put on your reading glasses and join this discussion on the writer’s relationship with “the fine print”. Covering contractual agreements, options, and basic legal advice, this is your opportunity to seek counsel without having to sign on the dotted line.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Scott Richter

Scott Richter

moderator; President, Richter Scale Media

Speakers
avatar for Stephen Clark

Stephen Clark

Partner, Lichter Grossman Nichols Adler Feldman & Clark, Inc.
Stephen Clark is a partner in the West Hollywood, CA entertainment law firm, Lichter Grossman Nichols Adler Feldman & Clark.  For over 18 years, he has represented a diverse group of writers, directors, actors and producers in film and television.  His extensive experience includes... Read More →
avatar for Chris Sparling

Chris Sparling

writer Buried, The Sea of Trees, Down a Dark Hall; writer/director Mercy, The Atticus Institute
Chris Sparling wrote the 2010 film BURIED starring Ryan Reynolds, for which he won "Best Original Screenplay" from the National Board of Review of Motion Pictures. THE SEA OF TREES, which he wrote and produced -- starring Matthew McConaughey, Namoi Watts, and directed by Gus Van... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

4:45pm CDT

The Women in the Room
Women writers are continuously changing the landscape of film and television for the better. Come chat with these devoted writers about their stories, viewpoints, and advice.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Charmaine DeGraté

Charmaine DeGraté

writer/ co-executive producer Hello Sunshine/Amazon’s Daisy Jones and The Six, The 100, Netflix’s Chambers
Charmaine DeGraté is a screenwriter and television producer. Her works include the critically acclaimed sci-fi drama, The 100, in addition to a number of shows for Warner Bros, Netflix, and Amazon.Currently, Charmaine is writing and co-executive producing Daisy Jones and The Six... Read More →
avatar for Pamela Ribon

Pamela Ribon

writer Moana, Ralph Breaks The Internet; comic book writer Rick and Morty, My Boyfriend is a Bear
avatar for Christina Hodson

Christina Hodson

writer Transformers: Bumblebee, Birds of Prey (2020)
Hodson first transitioned from development executive to screenwriter in 2012. Her first three spec scripts were featured on the Black List three years in a row, the most recent of which, The Eden Project, was a sci-fi action script that sold in a bidding war to Sony. This led to her... Read More →
avatar for Amy Berg

Amy Berg

writer/executive producer Neverwhere, Broad Band, Counterpart, Eureka; writer Person of Interest, Leverage, The 4400
Amy Berg is a screenwriter and television showrunner. She's written for more than a dozen series including PERSON OF INTEREST, EUREKA, LEVERAGE, and THE 4400. She also created the award-winning series CAPER for Hulu and YouTube. After showrunning the final season of DA VINCI’S DEMONS... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

4:45pm CDT

Writing for the New Age
Writers are rapidly finding new ways to break in and tell their stories. With the rise of emerging mediums, the traditional landscape of narrative fiction is changing. Learn how these panelists are paving new paths of storytelling and how you can do the same.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Fabienne Harford

Speakers
avatar for Kane Lee

Kane Lee

Head of Content, Baobab Studios
Multi-Emmy award-winning producer Kane Lee is the Head of Content for Baobab Studios, overseeing creative for the studio as executive producer as executive producer of groundbreaking works written/directed by animation luminary Eric Darnell (Dreamworks' ANTZ, MADAGASCAR), including... Read More →
avatar for Jon Cozart

Jon Cozart

filmmaker/musician comedian/content creator
Jon Cozart is a filmmaker and musical comedian who’s spent over a decade in the online video space, specializing in irreverent acapella comedy songs. He's garnered 4.5 million YouTube subscribers and 450 million views on his channel, PAINT, with only 40 videos to his name. After... Read More →
avatar for Bernie Su

Bernie Su

creator/executive producer/showrunner Artificial, The Lizzie Bennet Diaries, Emma Approved
Bernie Su is a three-time Primetime Emmy and Peabody Award-winning interactive storyteller, creator, and showrunner.Su recently won his third Primetime Emmy for "Artificial," the first-ever live and interactive science fiction series to debut on Twitch. The series is a fully scripted... Read More →
avatar for Tyler Mitchell

Tyler Mitchell

Head of Imagine Impact
Tyler Mitchell is a producer and entrepreneur whose experience sits at the nexus of content creation, storytelling and working with leading talent. As the Head of Imagine Impact, a ground-breaking content accelerator and platform under the Imagine Entertainment banner, Mitchell is... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
The Omni Hotel, Austin Room 700 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, New Media Track

4:45pm CDT

Your First Draft Sucks, Now What?
We all hope to strike gold on our first go around, but more often than not, it takes a little longer for your story to find its footing. So, your first draft sucks…now what? Join writers Meg LeFauve and Nicole Perlman for a discussion on strategies for reworking first drafts and remedies for getting your so-so script to reach its full potential.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Mary Coleman

Mary Coleman

Head of Creative Development, Pixar Animation Studios
Mary Coleman is the Senior Development Executive at Pixar Animation Studios. She joined Pixar in 1999 to create the Development department. Coleman was recruited from San Francisco’s Magic Theater because Pixar recognized that her work developing world premiers of new plays would... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Meg LeFauve

Meg LeFauve

writer Inside Out, Captain Marvel, Good Dinosaur
Nominated for a 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 Hulu and the animated film MY FATHER’S DRAGON... Read More →
avatar for Nicole Perlman

Nicole Perlman

writer Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain Marvel, Detective Pikachu
Nicole Perlman is best known for her work on “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Captain Marvel,” and “Detective Pikachu." Nicole received her BFA in filmmaking from NYU in 2003, and has gone on to win the Tribeca Film Festival's Sloan Foundation Grant for Science in Film, the Hugo... Read More →

Saturday October 26, 2019 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

6:30pm CDT

Story Bar at Lit Crawl Austin
Join Story Bar for a multi-disciplinary "story mixer" that welcomes Austin Film Festival screenwriters and Texas Book Festival authors to the stage for some spellbinding storytelling. The catch? Artists will share a story in a different medium than what they have represented at their respective festivals.

This panel is co-presented by Story Bar.
Saturday October 26, 2019 6:30pm - 7:45pm CDT
Empire Control Room 606 E. 7th St.
  Conference

7:00pm CDT

ISA Table Read Event: Dirty Words
Join the International Screenwriters’ Association (ISA) in celebrating the Table Read My Screenplay Contest’s winning screenplay Dirty Words by Rachel Kempf. We will be reading excerpts from the script, directed by Liz Fisher, recipient of the 2018 Princess Grace Award in Theater and the Stage Directors and Choreographers Directing Award in conjunction with the Kennedy Center. Sit back and enjoy the funny, quick-paced story which was a PAGE Semifinalist in 2019 and has won a place in the hearts of ISA, and many others, landing Rachel on the ISA Development Slate.

Rachel Kempf is a Los-Angeles based screenwriter with a passion for kick-ass female-driven comedy and a shameful history of writing smutty romance novels (don’t judge). She received a Master of Fine Arts in Screenwriting from the University of Texas at Austin in 2015. While at UT, she co-created the webseries Texting with Gosling and was listed in Variety Magazine’s 110 Students to Watch list. Her comedy feature and pilot scripts have gained numerous accolades from NexTV Writing and Pitch Competition, Slamdance, Cinestory, ATX Television Pitch Fest, Script Pipeline, Hollyshorts, and the PAGE Awards, where two of her romantic comedy scripts, Dirty Words and Loser’s Guide to Love, were 2019 semifinalists. After being awarded a special distinction prize in the Gidden Media / Stage 32 Romantic Comedy Contest, she received a development deal from Gidden Media and is currently at work with them on romantic comedy for people who hate weddings.

The International Screenwriters’ Association (ISA) was founded by independent filmmakers who understand that there are many different roads to success. We believe that everyone has a story to tell, each with a unique perspective and style. Our goal is to help you grow as a storyteller by honing your individual talent, sharpening your distinct voice, then guiding you to breakthrough and success. It’s free to join. From working writers, hobbyists and enthusiasts alike, we want to inspire you to believe in yourself and encourage you to become the most authentic storyteller you can be. ISA has been serving the community since 2008.
Sponsors
avatar for ISA


Saturday October 26, 2019 7:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference
 
Sunday, October 27
 

11:30am CDT

A Conversation with Catherine Reitman: The 2019 Recipient of the New Voice Award
Join our New Voice awardee Catherine Reitman for a conversation on her burgeoning career in the entertainment industry. In this panel, Reitman will discuss her expansive career acting in film and television and her transition into the role of creator/showrunner/star of her two-time international Emmy Award-nominated series Workin’ Moms.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Erin Hallagan

Erin Hallagan

Moderator; Founder/Artistic Director, Story Bar; former Creative Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Catherine Reitman

Catherine Reitman

2019 Recipient of the New Voice Award
Catherine Reitman is an actress, comedian, producer, writer and director best known as the creator and star of the acclaimed two time International Emmy® Award nominated series Workin Moms', which originally aired on CBC in Canada and can now be seen internationally as a Netflix... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

11:30am CDT

Balancing Multiple Projects
As a working writer, it's common practice to have many irons in the fire. So how do you balance working on multiple projects and what can you do to ensure that you’re not dropping a ball in the process? Panelists will discuss their experience juggling multiple projects and give their advice for keeping a balanced workload when stretching yourself thin seems to be the name of the game.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Ashland Viscosi

Ashland Viscosi

moderator; Founder, Creatives Meet Business

Speakers
avatar for Amy Berg

Amy Berg

writer/executive producer Neverwhere, Broad Band, Counterpart, Eureka; writer Person of Interest, Leverage, The 4400
Amy Berg is a screenwriter and television showrunner. She's written for more than a dozen series including PERSON OF INTEREST, EUREKA, LEVERAGE, and THE 4400. She also created the award-winning series CAPER for Hulu and YouTube. After showrunning the final season of DA VINCI’S DEMONS... Read More →
avatar for Jason Headley

Jason Headley

writer Pixar's Onward (2020), writer/director A Bad Idea Gone Wrong, It's Not About the Nail
Jason Headley is the co-writer of Pixar’s upcoming film “Onward.” He wrote and directed the feature film "A Bad Idea Gone Wrong" which won a Special Jury Prize at the 2017 SXSW Film Festival. His short films—including the viral videos "It's Not About the Nail" and "F*ck That... Read More →
avatar for Rochée Jeffrey

Rochée Jeffrey

co-producer Beverly Hills 90210, SMILF; producer Woke
Rochée Jeffrey is a writer/director/performer who hails originally from Jamaica. She’s written on several television series, including Showtime's Golden Globe-nominated comedy series SMILF and she’s a producer on the upcoming Hulu series Woke starring Larmorne Morris. On the... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Victorian Balcony 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

11:30am CDT

Creators and Showrunners
The roles of the creator/showrunner carry a wide range of responsibilities—from running the writers room to managing the series and its staff at every step of the production process. In this panel, creators and showrunners will discuss their experience getting a series off the ground and the many hats you wear as the head of a TV series.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Matt Dy

Matt Dy

Manager, Lit Entertainment Group; Former Director of Script Competitions, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Steven Canals

Steven Canals

creator/executive producer POSE
Hailing from The Bronx, Steven Canals is the Creator and Executive Producer of the Golden Globe nominated and Peabody Award winning FX drama series POSE. A 2015 graduate of UCLA’s MFA Screenwriting program, he began his journey as a storyteller in high school, producing the documentary... Read More →
avatar for Ben Cory Jones

Ben Cory Jones

writer/creator Boomerang; writer Insecure, Underground; producer Step Sisters
Ben Cory Jones currently serves as the showrunner/executive producer of the BET comedyseries, BOOMERANG, loosely based on the iconic 90’s-era film, starring Eddie Murphy andHalle Berry. Lena Waithe and Halle Berry also serve as executive producers.Most recently and prior to Boomerang... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

11:30am CDT

First Impressions
First impressions are important - especially when you're meeting with someone who can help propel your career forward. So how do you nail that initial meeting? What can you anticipate, how do you prepare, and what questions should you be asking? Working managers will offer their advice and insight on how to get yourself manager-ready.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Jill Chamberlain

Jill Chamberlain

author The Nutshell Technique: Crack the Secret of Successful Screenwriting
Jill Chamberlain is the founder of The Screenplay Workshop (www.thescreenplayworkshop.org) where she has helped thousands of writers with their screenplays. Her book, The Nutshell Technique: Crack the Secret to Successful Screenwriting (University of Texas Press), is one of the highest rated screenwriting books on Amazon, out of over 3,000 books on the subject. It's considered the go-to manual many professionals swear by and is on the syllabus for film schools across the U.S. including the acclaimed screenwriting... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Kendrick Tan

Kendrick Tan

Literary Manager, Lit Entertainment Group
KENDRICK TAN is a literary manager at Lit Entertainment Group. Prior to that he was a manager at Madhouse Entertainment. He attended school at University of California, Irvine.
avatar for Dana M. Jackson

Dana M. Jackson

Literary Manager, Fineman Entertainment; producer Park, Typewriter Days
Dana Jackson graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and Playwrights Horizons Theater School with a B.F.A. in Film/Theatre and a minor in Business. Relocating to Los Angeles, she worked at the William Morris Agency before a 5-year stint at Castle Rock Entertainment, where... Read More →
avatar for Krista Carpenter

Krista Carpenter

Manager/Co-Founder, Fictional Entity
Krista Carpenter has more than fifteen years experience in the entertainment industry having worked proficiently in both Los Angeles and Australia. In late 2016, she co-founded, with partner Chris Deckard, the management/production company Fictional Entity. Together, they have developed... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

11:30am CDT

Indie Film Track: Documentary Storytelling
Just like fiction writing, all good documentaries start with one thing—a strong subject with a compelling narrative. Join this panel of documentary filmmakers for a conversation on capturing strong, subject-driven stories from the world around us, and the research, preparation, and commitment to storytelling that goes into making a documentary film.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Greg Curtis

Greg Curtis

moderator; Former Editor of Texas Monthly

Speakers
avatar for Carolyn McCulley

Carolyn McCulley

director The Rage of Evil: Thoughts from a Former School Shooter
Carolyn McCulley is a director/producer/editor who started Citygate Films in 2009. Since then, she has produced and directed nearly 200 commissioned short films for clients, filming in multiple nations globally. She directed the short documentary, THE RAGE OF EVIL: THOUGHTS FROM A... Read More →
avatar for Stefan Stuckert

Stefan Stuckert

director/co-producer Against the Tides
London-based Stefan Stuckert is an award-winning and BAFTA-nominated writer/director working in TV and film. He recently completed his first feature documentary Against the TIdes, which had its world premiere at the Sheffield International Documentary Festival in 2018.He has series-directed... Read More →
avatar for Andrew Holzchuh

Andrew Holzchuh

director He's Still Fast
Andrew Q Holzschuh is a Texas-based filmmaker who, over the past ten years, has made his name focusing on stories that are off the beaten path. His short narrative and documentary films cover a wide variety of topics such as refugee resettlement, sex trafficking, porn addiction, christian... Read More →
avatar for Elizabeth Coffman

Elizabeth Coffman

director Flannery
Elizabeth Coffman is a film director and recovering southern debutante who moved to Chicago to make films with her Yankee partner, filmmaker Ted Hardin. They have produced documentaries and installations on sea level rise, nation-building, antii-Semitism and southern history with... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Assembly Room 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference, Indie Film Track

11:30am CDT

Social Impact Entertainment: Shifting Writers' Lenses
What is Social Impact Entertainment, and how can you measure that impact? This panel will explore the different lenses writers can employ when designing their characters and their stories, as well as discussing examples of how working writers, directors, and producers can apply these principles to their creative content.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for William Nix

William Nix

executive producer The Prophet, This Is Ragtime: The Birth of American Music, Power, Return to Afghanistan, Firedancer; producer Gibran
William Nix, Chairman, Creative Projects Group® is a Producer with extensive experience in the entertainment, media, sports, and intellectual property fields. He is a member of the Producer's Council of the PGA, a founding member of its Social Impact Entertainment Task Force and... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Casey Suchan

Casey Suchan

director The Animal People
Suchan co-directed the critically acclaimed documentary Rock the Bells, a behind-the-scenes look at how a young concert promoter beat the odds to reunite the Wu-Tang Clan for their final performance with O.D.B. The film premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and earned comparisons... Read More →
avatar for Adolf El Assal

Adolf El Assal

co-writer/director/producer Sawah
Born in Alexandria, Egypt in 1981, Adolf El Assal grew up in Dubai, London and Luxembourg. After graduating with a MA in Filmmaking from Kingston University in the United Kingdom, he won his spurs while working on several video clips and TV shorts, and worked as a producer on Divizionz... Read More →
avatar for Laura Herb

Laura Herb

Program Manager, The Skoll Center for Social Impact Entertainment
Laura Herb is the Program Manager for The Skoll Center for Social Impact Entertainment at the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. She currently oversees all projects and day-to-day operations for the Center and was integral in the production and publication of the Center’s... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

11:30am CDT

The Quagmire of the Female Character
Once upon a time there were movies about men who saved the world and women who stood on the sideline and shouted, “Way to go!” And there were romantic dramas and romantic comedies about women who cared about love and almost nothing else. And there were animated movies about princesses who waited around until a man came along to kiss them.

Then one day everyone woke up and decided it wasn’t a good idea for our female characters to be so passive, so the women turned into action stars and the animated princesses turned into warrior princesses or sometimes into just warriors. Whatever the men were doing in a movie, the women had to do it too, only better. Love stories and romantic comedies were deemed a thing of the past that sent the wrong message (i.e., that love matters more than anything else). -

But – What if women really like love stories? And what if girls really like princesses? Is that so wrong? And what if love really does matter more than anything else? Is it OK for our female characters to cry once in a while? Is it OK for them to wear sexy outfits? Should a female character’s dialogue be indistinguishable from a male character’s dialogue? And is it a better message if the female characters are just as good at fighting and killing as the guys?

Let’s try to figure it out.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Doran

Lindsay Doran

producer Stranger Than Fiction, Sense and Sensibility, Nanny McPhee, Dead Again; executive producer The Firm, Sabrina; former President/COO, United Artists
Lindsay Doran has worked in the movie business for more than 30 years as a studio executive and as a producer.  She has served as the President and COO of United Artists Pictures and as the President of Sydney Pollack’s Mirage Productions.  She currently divides her time between... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

11:30am CDT

WORK IN PROGRESS: Writing to Rewriting
We believe it is not a writer’s level of talent that determines their success, but rather how they work with and manage that talent. In WORK IN PROGRESS, Ed Solomon and Max Borenstein (with special guests) will lead a question and answer workshop using the writing issues attendees are currently facing as a backdrop to discuss the real thing that separates the pros from the not-yet pros: the ability to assess, mine and cultivate one’s own unique gifts, and to keep them growing throughout a lifetime. Participants are requested to come prepared with questions on specific issues they are facing while moving from Writing to Rewriting.

THIS IS AN EXTENDED PANEL THAT WILL END AT 1:30PM.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Meg LeFauve

Meg LeFauve

writer Inside Out, Captain Marvel, Good Dinosaur
Nominated for a 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 Hulu and the animated film MY FATHER’S DRAGON... Read More →
avatar for Ed Solomon

Ed Solomon

writer HBO’s Mosaic, Men in Black, Untitled Steven Soderbergh feature; co-writer Bill & Ted Face the Music, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Now You See Me 1 & 2, It's Garry Shandling's Show, Untitled David O Russell feature
When Bill & Ted Face the Music comes out in 2020, Ed Solomon will have had a major filmreleased in each of the last 5 decades, starting in 1989 with his (and co-writer Chris Matheson’s)first feature, Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. The 90’s saw Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Men... Read More →
avatar for Max Borenstein

Max Borenstein

creator The Terror: Infamy, Untitled Showtime Lakers Project (2020, HBO), Untitled Game of Thrones Spinoff, Minority Report; writer: Godzilla (2014), Kong: Skull Island, Godzilla 2, Godzilla v. Kong (2020), What is Life Worth (2020)
Max Borenstein wrote the script for 2014’s blockbuster GODZILLA, as well as KONG: SKULL ISLAND, GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS (story), and the forthcoming GODZILLA V. KONG.His next film as writer and producer, the drama WHAT IS LIFE WORTH, based on Kenneth Feinberg's memoir of... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 11:30am - 1:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

12:00pm CDT

Claymation Station
Come to the Austin Film Festival Tent for your chance to create the next animated classic! Austin Film Festival will have free Claymation activities for your family to make their own stop-motion animation.

Free and open to the public!
Sunday October 27, 2019 12:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Austin Film Festival Tent at the Paramount 713 Congress Ave.
  Conference

12:00pm CDT

KMFA Tent Talks
AFF welcomes KMFA’s Dianne Donovan to lead interviews with filmmakers and composers from the film festival. We’ll hear from the team behind the riveting new documentary Cowboys and more.

12:00pm - Cowboys team Bud Force (director), Ian McLeod (composer), Lucas Harger (editor)
12:45pm - Miranda Sachetta composer Transformers: Prime Wars Trilogy, The Eagle Huntress 
1:15pm - Talia Osteen writer/director The Shabbos Goy
Speakers
avatar for Miranda Sachetta

Miranda Sachetta

composer Transformers: Prime Wars Trilogy, The Eagle Huntress
Miranda Sachetta is a composer based out of Los Angeles, specializing in television, film, and other media. She holds a Film Scoring degree from Berklee College of Music in her hometown of Boston, Massachusetts. Miranda's music can be heard on shows including the Transformers: Prime... Read More →
avatar for Ian McLeod

Ian McLeod

founder, Cleod9 Music; composer Cowboys, The Push, Massacre River
Ian McLeod is the Founder and Lead Composer of Cleod9 Music. Based in Washington, D.C., his company features a small collective of musicians that create music for an array of media. In five short years, Ian has scored award-winning documentaries, films and commercials. His team also... Read More →
avatar for Talia Osteen

Talia Osteen

writer/director The Shabbos Goy
TALIA OSTEEN started in the industry as an actress, starring in 5 national TV series, before moving behind the camera. She graduated from USC's Cinema-Television Production program and went on to direct the feature documentary, BLINDSIDED (HBO). She then honed her narrative skills... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for KMFA

Sunday October 27, 2019 12:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Austin Film Festival Tent at the Paramount 713 Congress Ave.
  Conference

1:15pm CDT

Indie Film Track: Short Film Storytelling
Composing an engaging story with clear characterization, dialogue, and structure is challenging enough when creating a feature film—imagine successfully placing these nuanced elements into a half-hour or less! To learn tips, tricks, and strategies for brewing the right storytelling potion, come hear from our panel of experienced short-film filmmakers.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Alexandra Mitchell

Alexandra Mitchell

moderator; AFF Shorts Programmer

Speakers
avatar for Barney Elliott

Barney Elliott

co-writer/co-producer/director AUTOS FANTASTICOS
Born and raised in New York City, after graduating from the University of San Francisco, Barney went on to complete his postgraduate studies at the London Film School (2003). In 2006, he wrote and directed his short film True Colours, which premiered at the Premier Plans Festival... Read More →
avatar for Kathryn Prescott

Kathryn Prescott

writer/director/producer Jane
Kathryn started her career as an actor in the British television show 'Skins'. Last year she wrote and directed a PSA-style short film in association with Homeless Health Care Los Angeles to raise awareness about the opioid epidemic's devastating effect on America's youth. The project... Read More →
avatar for Adam Yorke

Adam Yorke

writer/director/co-producer Bunker Burger
Adam Yorke is a writer/director/producer with Wildling Pictures, a ProdCo. in Toronto. He's made two previous shorts, and his first produced feature is in pre-production set to shoot in February, a home invasion thriller titled See For Me, with Molly McGlynn directing.

Sunday October 27, 2019 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Victorian Balcony 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Indie Film Track

1:15pm CDT

Podcast Workshop: Launch Materials
You’ve got the idea, the script, the cast and you have already recorded your podcast or you are just about to record. What do you do next? Join Industry veteran Tim Street as he helps three fledgling podcasts dive into the materials needed in launching a podcast in an interactive workshop that’s sure to educate and entertain.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Tim Street

Tim Street

Vice President Influence and Production, Authentic
Tim is a writer, director and is the producer of two podcasts to reach number one on Apple Podcasts. He also serves as Vice President of Influence and Production at Authentic.Tim began his career producing such Nickelodeon shows like All That and What Would You Do? and has created... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for Authentic

Sunday October 27, 2019 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Podcast Track

1:15pm CDT

To Live and Write in L.A. … or Not: Do You Have to Live in Los Angeles to Make It as a Screenwriter? presented by DePaul University
The standard answer to the question of relocating to Los Angeles is: Yes, do it. While there are advantages in making the move, it’s not the right choice for everyone. For those mulling over this question or wanting to learn ways to break in as a screenwriter while not living in L.A., this panel comprised of writers who have lived and worked in Hollywood will address key issues related to: L.A. … or not?

This panel is presented by DePaul University School of Cinematic Arts.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Speakers
avatar for Gary Novak

Gary Novak

writer Scott’s Dead; writer/director Sweet 16; director Angels with a Cause; producer Undocumented
Gary Novak is a producer, writer, and director with over thirty years of experience in the industry. His work includes commercials, documentaries, television series, and feature films. Projects include Scott’s Dead starring Michael Rooker, the award-winning documentary Angels with... Read More →
avatar for Chris Parrish

Chris Parrish

writer Curb Your Enthusiasm, The King of Queens, American Dragon: Jake Long, John Krasinski & Natasha Lyonne, Thrill Ride, Jim Henson’s Goldilocks
Chris Parrish was a story consultant on Curb Your Enthusiasm, a staff writer on The King of Queens and a story editor on Disney Channel’s American Dragon: Jake Long. Chris has written and sold television comedy pilots for Fox, Paramount, NBC, Disney Channel, Steve Levitan and... Read More →
avatar for Anna Maria Hozian

Anna Maria Hozian

writer/director Other People’s Children; writer Anchor Baby, Someday, Ohio
Anna Maria Hozian is the writer/director of the Other People's Children web series, which has been making its way around the world in over twenty festivals ranging from Rio to Bilboa to Melbourne to Seoul. Anna was also one of twelve women chosen for the inaugural year of the New... Read More →
avatar for Brad Riddell

Brad Riddell

writer American Pie: Band Camp, Crooked Arrows, Road Trip II, Slap Shot III, Other People’s Children, Back to the Grind
Brad Riddell has written four produced feature films for Hollywood studios including Paramount, MTV, and Universal. His first film, American Pie: Band Camp, remains one of the highest grossing live-action DVD releases in history, and is now syndicated on TBS. His most recent feature... Read More →
avatar for Fatou Samba

Fatou Samba

editor Redningsskøyta, Nattpatruljen, Skjulte Skatter, Kari Traa Leikane, Robinsonekspedisjonen, Paradise Hotel; field director Robinsonekspedisjonen, Meglerkampen
Fatou Samba is an editor, director and writer who got her start working in reality television back in Norway where she’s from. There she field-directed and edited shows like the Norwegian versions of Survivor, Cops and Paradise Hotel. Since transitioning into writing she has placed... Read More →

Sponsors
avatar for DePaul University

Sunday October 27, 2019 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

1:15pm CDT

Writing for Animation: Seis Manos
Join co-creators/writers Alvaro Rodriguez (From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series), Brad Graeber (CEO, Powerhouse Animation), and director Willis Bulliner for a conversation on writing, developing, and animating Netflix’s new adult anime series Seis Manos. In this panel, the team will discuss the collaborative process for creating an animated series and how the writers and animators worked together to produce the series in house.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Harrison Glaser

Harrison Glaser

moderator; Former Film Competition Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Brad Graeber

Brad Graeber

co-founder/CEO, Powerhouse Animation Studios; executive producer/co-creator Seis Manos
In 2001, Brad co-founded Powerhouse Animation Studios, Inc., where he currently serves as CEO and Chief Creative Officer. Powerhouse has offices in Austin, TX and Burbank, CA. Brad was the supervising producer of Frederator's CASTLEVANIA for Netflix, the Executive Producer and Co-Creator... Read More →
avatar for Alvaro Rodriguez

Alvaro Rodriguez

writer From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series, RUST (Showtime); co-creator/executive producer Seis Manos
avatar for Willis Bulliner

Willis Bulliner

Director at Powerhouse Animation Studios; director Seis Manos
Willis Bulliner is a Director for Powerhouse Animation Studios, Inc., and has been with the company foreight years. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, he attended the University of Illinois at Urbana/Champaign,receiving a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Painting. He then left the Midwest... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

A Conversation with Mikki Daughtry & Tobias Iaconis
With back to back features released this year, writing pair Mikki Daughtry and Tobias Iaconis have staked their claim as Hollywood’s latest writers to watch. In this panel, the AFF alums will discuss their career as a writing team, from their placement as finalists in Austin Film Festival’s screenplay competition, to co-writing the teen romance drama Five Feet Apart and supernatural horror film The Curse of La Llorona, and how the two work together to write across genres.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Harrison Glaser

Harrison Glaser

moderator; Former Film Competition Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Mikki Daughtry

Mikki Daughtry

co-writer Five Feet Apart, The Curse of La Llorona
MIKKI DAUGHTRY and TOBIAS IACONIS had two films in theaters in 2019. CBS Films released FIVE FEET APART, starring Cole Sprouse and Haley Lue Richardson, produced by Cathy Schulman and Justin Baldoni, directed by Justin Baldoni. And Warner Bros. released THE CURSE OF LA LLORONA, a... Read More →
avatar for Tobias Iaconis

Tobias Iaconis

co-writer Five Feet Apart, The Curse of La Llorona
MIKKI DAUGHTRY and TOBIAS IACONIS had two films in theaters in 2019. CBS Films released FIVE FEET APART, starring Cole Sprouse and Haley Lue Richardson, produced by Cathy Schulman and Justin Baldoni, directed by Justin Baldoni. And Warner Bros. released THE CURSE OF LA LLORONA, a... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

A Conversation with Ron Bass: The 2019 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting
Academy Award-winning screenwriter Ron Bass has built a prolific career writing box office mega-hits like Rain Man, My Best Friend’s Wedding, and Sleeping with the Enemy. Join our 2019 Screenwriter Awardee for an in-depth conversation on his 30+ year career writing for Hollywood, and his advice for making a living as a writer in the industry.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Erin Hallagan

Erin Hallagan

Moderator; Founder/Artistic Director, Story Bar; former Creative Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Ron Bass

Ron Bass

2019 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting
Ron was born in Los Angeles and began writing short stories at the age of six. During his teens, he wrote a novel VOLEUR, which he eagerly submitted to his Freshman English Professor. When she told him it could never be published, he burned the only copy in a metal bowl and didn’t... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

Indie Film Track: The Art of Sound Design
Often the unsung hero of the film production process, sound design is crucial to the making of a successful film. Join this panel of AFF competition filmmakers for a conversation on the ins and outs of the sound design process and their advice for using sound as a tool for elevating your story.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Brian Ramos

Brian Ramos

moderator

Speakers
avatar for Drew Pierce

Drew Pierce

co-writer/co-director/co-producer The Wretched
The Pierce Brothers - The writing/directing team behind DEADHEADS. From childhood the brothers have been obsessed with the horror genre having grown up on the set of the cult classic EVIL DEAD, for which their father served as the special effects artist. The Wretched is their second... Read More →
avatar for Brett Pierce

Brett Pierce

co-writer/co-director/co-producer The Wretched
The Pierce Brothers - The writing/directing team behind DEADHEADS. From childhood the brothers have been obsessed with the horror genre having grown up on the set of the cult classic EVIL DEAD, for which their father served as the special effects artist. The Wretched is their second... Read More →
avatar for Jérémy Laval

Jérémy Laval

writer/director Noise
Originally from Saint-Etienne, Jérémy Laval moves to Paris at the age of 18 and first works on movie sets. Passionate about cinema, he doesn’t attend a film school but instead learns the ropes of how a movie is made by helping and watching the technicians work on these movies... Read More →
avatar for Shane Belcourt

Shane Belcourt

co-writer/director Red Rover
Shane Belcourt is an award-winning and Canadian Screen Award nominated filmmaker based in Toronto, Canada. Notable works include the feature film Tkaronto (2007); the dance documentary Kaha:wi (2015); the Historica Canada Minute Chanie Wenjack (2016); the CBC documentary Indictment (2017... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Victorian Balcony 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference, Indie Film Track

3:00pm CDT

Life as a Screenwriter
The life of a screenwriter requires more than creativity and passion—it requires grit, patience, and a continued commitment to the craft. In this panel, seasoned screenwriters will sit down for an in-depth conversation on cultivating a successful writing career and the hardships and heartaches that come with pursuing your passion as a profession.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Barbara Morgan

Barbara Morgan

Moderator; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Austin Film Festival

Speakers
avatar for Shane Black

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... Read More →
avatar for Scott Rosenberg

Scott Rosenberg

writer Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle, Venom, Con Air, Beautiful Girls
Scott Rosenberg has written the screenplays “THINGS TO IN DENVER WHEN YOU’RE DEAD”, “BEAUTIFUL GIRLS”, “CON AIR”, “DISTURBING BEHAVIOR”, “GONE IN 60 SECONDS”, and “HIGHWAY”.He co-wrote “HIGH FIDELITY” and “KANGAROO JACK”. As well as created and produced... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

Limetown: From Script-to-Podcast-to-Screen
Join creators Zack Akers and Skip Bronkie for a look into the process behind adapting their fiction podcast series Limetown into the recently released Facebook Watch series of the same name. In this panel, the two will discuss how they took their story from script to podcast to screen.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Fabienne Harford

Speakers
avatar for Zack Akers

Zack Akers

co-founder of Two-Up; writer/producer Limetown, producer 36 Questions, The Wilderness
Zack Akers grew up in a small town in East Tennessee. He graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts in 2008 with a degree in Film & Television and became a documentary producer with Flagstaff Films, whose work has appeared on HBO, ESPN, CBS, and NBC. In 2015, he cofounded Two-Up... Read More →
avatar for Skip Bronkie

Skip Bronkie

co-founder, Two-Up; producer Limetown, 36 Questions, The Wilderness
Zack Akers and Skip Bronkie graduated from Tisch School of the Arts with a degree in Film & Television. Zack’s work has appeared on HBO, ESPN, CBS, and NBC. Skip was a creative director and commercial filmmaker at Facebook and Pinterest. In Summer 2015, they co-founded Two-Up and... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference

3:00pm CDT

Parting Thoughts: What Next?
It’s the end of the Conference, and you’re leaving with a belly full of barbecue, a wallet full of business cards, and pages packed with new ideas and tips on how to take your career to the next level. So what’s next? Join us for a few parting thoughts on how to use the skills you’ve learned and the connections you’ve made to take the next steps in your career as a writer.

Must have an AFF Producers, Conference, or Weekend Badge for entry.
Moderators
avatar for Greg Garrett

Greg Garrett

moderator; author; Professor, Baylor University

Speakers
avatar for Nicole Perlman

Nicole Perlman

writer Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain Marvel, Detective Pikachu
Nicole Perlman is best known for her work on “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Captain Marvel,” and “Detective Pikachu." Nicole received her BFA in filmmaking from NYU in 2003, and has gone on to win the Tribeca Film Festival's Sloan Foundation Grant for Science in Film, the Hugo... Read More →
avatar for Ashley Miller

Ashley Miller

writer Thor, X-MEN: First Class, Red Sonja; writer/producer Fringe, Black Sails, Lore
Ashley Edward Miller is a film and television writer best known for Thor and X-Men: First Class. Most recently in television, Ashley wrote and produced for the second season of Lore on Amazon Prime, and the critically acclaimed fourth season of Black Sails on Starz. He also worked... Read More →
avatar for Michael Grillo

Michael Grillo

executive producer Avengers: Endgame, Avengers: Infinity War, Ant-Man, Captain America: Winter Soldier, The Amazing Spider-Man
Michael Grillo started his career in production as a DGA trainee on Young Frankenstein and The Towering Inferno. He became the 2nd assistant director on Fun with Dick and Jane, New York, New York with Martin Scorsese and The Deerhunter which won the Best Picture Oscar that year. He... Read More →

Sunday October 27, 2019 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos St, Austin TX 78701
  Conference
 
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800 Congress
Alamo Drafthouse Village
Austin Film Festival Tent at the Paramount
Buffalo Billiards
Central Presbyterian Church, Sanctuary
Colorado Lease
Easy Tiger
Empire Control Room
Fiesta Gardens
Galaxy Highland - Screen 2
Galaxy Highland - Screen 5
Galaxy Highland - Screen 6
Hideout Theatre
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Assembly Room
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, Ballroom
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin, State Boardroom
Irene's
Paramount Theatre
Ranch 616
Rollins Theatre
Speakeasy
SPiN Austin
St. David's Episcopal Church, Bethell Hall
St. David's Episcopal Church, Sumners Hall
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Crail Hall
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary
St. David’s Episcopal Church, Vestry Conference Room
State Theatre
Stephen F's Bar
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Associati
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Club
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room
The Driskill Hotel, Mezzanine
The Driskill Hotel, Victorian Balcony
The LINE Austin
The Long Center for the Performing Arts
The Omni Hotel, Austin Room
The Omni Hotel, Lonestar Room
Vulcan Gas Company
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