Northern Ireland Screen: New Writer Focus
Overview
NEW WRITER FOCUS 2023-24
They are seeking scripts to develop for their New Writer Focus scheme 2023-2024.
The scheme is only open to Northern Ireland resident writers new to feature film, long-form drama projects or sit-coms.
For the avoidance of doubt “writers new to feature film, long-form drama and sit-coms” in this context means a writer without a writing credit on a produced feature film, long-form drama or sit-coms.
This is a script development call, therefore a producer and director are not essential at this stage.
Who can apply?
Only Northern Ireland resident writers new to feature film and long-form drama are eligible to apply. For the avoidance of doubt “writers new to feature film and long-form drama” in this context means a writer without a writing credit on a produced feature film or long-form drama.
This is a script development call; a producer and director are not essential at this stage.
What are they looking for?
1. Compelling stories with a unique or fresh perspective.
2. Ambitious authored voices.
3. Stories with strong character journeys
4. A range of art-house and commercial stories
5. Feature film projects only
6. Projects need not be limited by budget or genre.
What will scheme involve?
New Writer Focus will have 2 major components to the 8 month development scheme:
- Writers Room
- Individual project and writer development
- Development seminars and networking opportunities
How many projects will be selected?
Up to 4 scripts will be chosen for development each year.
The selected writers will be eligible to apply for an individual writer award.
Will the scheme involve production?
No. However, Northern Ireland Screen intends to fund one first feature each year.
**Projects from the New Writer Focus scheme will be eligible for this production funding. Accordingly, if you wish for your project to be considered for production it must be achievable within the constraints of a budget of circa £250,000.**
Please note: Northern Ireland Screen reserves the right to choose to fund or not fund productions at its sole discretion.