2021 Austin Film Festival & Conference: Full Schedule

7:00pm CDT

Film & Food Fundraising Party

Austin Film Festival is pleased to announce their 18th annual Film & Food Fundraising Party, an evening dedicated to celebrating Austin's thriving film industry and famous culinary talent. Held in the glamorous and historic Driskill Hotel, the event brings Austinites and visitors together to celebrate the film arts and enjoy flowing cocktails and inventive cuisine from some of Austin’s most notable chefs. Live and silent auctions showcase the very best in luxury items, trips, and experiences. Proceeds from the event benefit AFF’s Young Filmmakers Program. YFP was founded to encourage youth to explore their creativity and improve their literacy skills through the arts of screenwriting and filmmaking.

Tickets purchased separately. All parties are 21 and up.

Wednesday October 20, 2021 7:00pm - 10:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel 604 Brazos St., Austin, TX 78701

Party

11:30am CDT

Opening Remarks

After one long year, Austin Film Festival is thrilled to welcome you back to its 28th annual celebration of storytelling through film, television, theatre, and new media. Join AFF staff and special guests for Opening Remarks to kick off the Conference, prepare for the week ahead, and get information about last-minute additions, schedule changes, and special announcements.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Speakers

Ryan P. Hall

Head, Rooster Teeth Studios; executive producer Blood Fest, Lazer Team 2, Shark Week: Immersion, gen:LOCK

Ryan P. Hall is the Head of Studio at Rooster Teeth and is responsible for spearheading their groundbreaking development slate. Since joining the company in 2016, Ryan has built an innovative slate of projects and has produced dozens of scripted & unscripted projects in both live-action... Read More →

Thursday October 21, 2021 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT
The Austin Club, Medallion Room 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:00pm CDT

A Conversation with David Self

Join us for an in-depth conversation with David Self, the writer behind such classics as Road to Perdition and Thirteen Days. Join the native Texan screenwriter as he dissects his career from breaking into the industry, writing crime and historical dramas, and much more.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Executive Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Barbara Morgan serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Austin Film Festival. Since co-founding the organization in 1993, she has shepherded the festival from a weekend of films and panels into a week-long celebration of storytelling through film, television, and other emerging... Read More →

Speakers

David Self

writer Thirteen Days, Road to Perdition, Desert Warrior

David Self is a native Texan who has recently returned to the Austin area. From an itinerant family of community college and high school teachers, he broke with family tradition and went rogue after graduating from Stanford in 1992. While living at home sponging off his too-generous... Read More →

Thursday October 21, 2021 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:00pm CDT

How To Work The Conference

The AFF Conference is a one-of-a-kind experience filled with like-minded people and a multitude of learning experiences. Although the schedule can be intimidating, this panel featuring seasoned Festival attendees is here to help. Networking? We got you! Pitching? You know we have it! Bathroom? Down the hall and to your left! So come on down and learn how to get the most bang for your buck and maximize your time at the Festival.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Matt Dy

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

Matt Dy attended the University of Texas at Austin and received a Bachelor of Science in Radio/TV/Film with a focus on screenwriting. He recently joined Adam Kolbrenner’s newly formed Lit Entertainment Group as a literary manager. Previously, he worked at Austin Film Festival (AFF... Read More →

Speakers

Kevin Hamedani

writer Darius the Great Is Not Okay, Infidel; writer/producer/showrunner Tether, writer/showrunner Stephen King's N.; writer/director Saviors, Zombies of Mas

Hamedani (along with his co-writer, Travis Betz) became known when their script The Saviors was selected to the 2018 Black List. The screenplay is being produced by Ben Stiller’s Red Hour Films and Amasia Films with Hamedani directing. Hamedani just finished adapting Adib Khorram’s... Read More →

Daniel Petrie, Jr.

Partner, Enderby Entertainment; writer Beverly Hills Cop, The Big Easy; director Dawn Patrol, Toy Soldiers; executive producer An Ordinary Man, Blackway, Zero Contact; former WGAW President

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 →

Susan O'Connor

story consultant Batman (Telltale), Dishonored 2, BioShock 2; lead writer Star Wars 1313, Far Cry 2; writer Tomb Raider (Crystal Dynamics), BioShock; Interactive-Story Consultant, Netflix

Susan’s first job as a game writer was for “a slumber party game - for girls!” She’s gone on to work on over 25 projects, including award-winning titles in the BioShock, Far Cry and Tomb Raider franchises. Titles in her portfolio have sold over 30 million copies and generated... Read More →

Thursday October 21, 2021 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
The Austin Club, Medallion Room 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:00pm CDT

Indie Film Track: Making Your First Feature

Creating your first feature film can be a difficult, yet incredibly rewarding task. It takes courage, determination, creativity and a little bit of luck. This panel will focus on not only the process of producing a script for the first time, but how to cope with the stress of managing a feature film. Come and learn how to prepare yourself for when you decide to take the leap!

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Speakers

Sam Hartshorn

writer/director Cardboard Fort

Sam Hartshorn is a British filmmaker from North Yorkshire. At age 15, he was awarded EON's Industry Ones To Watch award. He has had a short featured on BBC's The Fear and has attracted praise from Star Wars: Rogue One director, Gareth Edwards, for his short film Where Were You?. He... Read More →

Evan McNary

cowriter/director Ragged Heart

Evan grew up in a religious cult where he assisted exorcisms from a young age and had no access to secular movies or music until his mid-teens. After high school, he made up for lost time by studying art in San Francisco, logging thousands of miles and countless audio books as a cross-country... Read More →

Sophie Miller

writer/director Ranch Water

Thursday October 21, 2021 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:00pm CDT

Tell Your Story: Scott Beck & Bryan Woods

Join Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, co-writers of A Quiet Place and Haunt, for an informal session all about craft and the writing process. Come prepared with questions!

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Speakers

Scott Beck

writer A Quiet Place, writer/director 65, Haunt

Filmmakers Scott Beck & Bryan Woods first met as sixth-graders in their hometown of Bettendorf, Iowa. After discovering a shared interest in cinema, the duo began collaborating on stop-motion movies with their Star Wars action figures. This collaboration continued into high school... Read More →

Bryan Woods

writer A Quiet Place, writer/director 65, Haunt

Thursday October 21, 2021 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

Lucas Martell

co-creator Spies In Disguise, writer/director The OceanMaker

Lucas Martell is the creator of SPIES IN DISGUISE, the Fox/Blue Sky animated feature starring Will Smith and Tom Holland. The original short film PIGEON: IMPOSSIBLE as well as THE OCEANMAKER have been seen more than 20-million times online and screened at over 350 festivals in 63... Read More →

Bill True

writer Runaway, Hope Springs, Crazy Evil Genius; Head of Dramatic Writing, Scottsdale School of Film+Theatre

Bill True's debut feature, Runaway, was hailed by critics as “Brilliant” and “Hitchcockian” as it premiered to universal accolades at top festivals, including Tribeca and Toronto. Bill also took top prize at the Austin Film Festival for his work on Runaway, which was subsequently... Read More →

Ashley Miller

creator/ep DOTA: Dragon’s Blood; writer X-Men: First Class, Thor; co-host The 4:30 Movie, Cartoon Barroom

Ashley Edward Miller is the creator and Executive Producer of DOTA: DRAGON’S BLOOD, Netflix’s global hit adaptation of the game DoTA2 from Valve Software. The writer of such films as THOR and X-MEN: FIRST CLASS, Ashley also has twenty years experience in television. His work includes... Read More →

Rebecca Windsor

Head, Warner Bros. Television Workshop

Rebecca Windsor is the Head of the Warner Bros. Television Workshop, the premier writing and directing program for artists looking to start or further their careers in television. As an extension of her role developing new talent, Rebecca helped launch Warner Bros. digital brand Stage13... Read More →

Thursday October 21, 2021 1:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Crail Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Roundtable

1:00pm CDT

A Conversation with Jeff Nichols

Jeff Nichols wrote and directed the internationally acclaimed features Shotgun Stories, Take Shelter, Mud, Midnight Special, and Loving. Join Nichols for a discussion on his career and how the responsibilities of a director and a writer affect and inform each other.

Moderators

Harrison Glaser

former Film Competition Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

Jeff Nichols

writer/director Loving, Midnight Special, Mud, Take Shelter, Shotgun Stories

JEFF NICHOLS wrote and directed the internationally acclaimed features Shotgun Stories, Take Shelter, Mud, Midnight Special, and Loving.Shotgun Stories earned an Independent Spirit Award nomination; the Grand Jury Prize at the Seattle and Austin Film Festivals; and the International... Read More →

Thursday October 21, 2021 1:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:00pm CDT

Script Reading: The Gods of Great Men

Limited Capacity seats available

Join us for a live reading of the Finalist play The Gods of Great Men by Kuros Charney featuring local Austin actors bringing Competition scripts to life!

In 1968 Mississippi, a Black preacher must face his troubled past when his civil rights activist daughter and a mysterious white fugitive force a confrontation with the Ku Klux Klan.

Thursday October 21, 2021 1:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
The Austin Club, Robert Looney Suite 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Script Reading

1:00pm CDT

Script Library

The Script Library is located in the Citadel Club of the The Driskill Hotel and houses all Semifinalist, Finalist, and winning scripts from the 2021 Screenplay Competition. Come check it out and find that perfect written work to get those creative juices flowing again!

Thursday October 21, 2021 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Club 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Script Reading

2:45pm CDT

Indie Film Track: Doc 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 what happens when the story you tell is no longer the story you originally set out to tell, and about the research and preparation necessary to create a documentary film.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Elizabeth Mims

Moderator

Elizabeth grew up in Austin, Texas and graduated with a BFA from CalArts. Her 2012 film Only The Young was theatrically released by Oscilloscope and won numerous awards including the Silverdoc’s Sterling Silver Award for best US documentary, American Film Institute Audience Award... Read More →

Speakers

Danny Abel

co-writer/director The King of North Sudan

Danny Abel is a director and writer living in Los Angeles. He has directed documentaries on topics ranging from international electronic music (VICE), to performance art (New Museum), to horse racing, to vaccine acceptance in Kenya. In the past few years, he has had two true crime... Read More →

Jared Callahn

director Clean State

Rev. Jared Callahan is a national Emmy-nominated filmmaker whose work has been released through PBS, The New York Times, GQ, The Atlantic, Sundance, Tribeca, and 250+ film festivals worldwide. His NYT Op-Doc Saltwater Baptism was nominated alongside Lady Gaga for a 2018 Webby Award... Read More →

Thursday October 21, 2021 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

2:45pm CDT

On Writing Mare of Easttown

Join Brad Ingelsby, creator of the HBO hit Mare of Easttown, for a conversation on writing the small-town thriller filled to the brim with writing that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Monique Walton is an independent producer of fiction features and documentaries. She produced Bull, directed by Annie Silverstein, which premiered at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival – Un Certain Regard, and was nominated for three Independent Spirit Awards. Bull is currently being... Read More →

Tai Duncan

producer The Marksman, Cop Shop, How It Ends, Honest Thief, The Air I Breathe

Tai Duncan is the President of production at Zero Gravity Management. Zero Gravity is a production and management company based in Los Angeles that boasts a strong client list of screenwriters, directors, actors and financiers for feature films and television. Tai Duncan recently... Read More →

Paul Merryman

producer, The Outpost

Austin native Paul Merryman is a film & television producer with a focus on amazing true stories. He holds an MFA in Producing from the American Film Institute and a BS in Radio, Television, and Film from the University of Texas at Austin. He started his career as an assistant to... Read More →

Thursday October 21, 2021 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

2:45pm CDT

Austin Pitch #2

It’s the 19th Annual Austin Film Festival Pitch Competition! This unique event allows contestants 90 seconds to pitch their best ideas to a panel of judges made up of producers, managers, and screenwriters in a constructive and friendly environment. Give your best pitch in 90 seconds and secure your spot in the finals at the Pitch Finale Party on Saturday night.

All Pitch Sessions require an advance sign-up and are held at St. David’s Episcopal Church in the Vestry Conference Room, located at 301 E 8th Street.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Speakers

Dailyn Rodriguez

co-showrunner/executive producer Queen of the South, Ugly Betty, Lie to Me, The Glades

Dailyn Rodriguez was born in the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City to Cuban parents. Her high school drama teacher introduced her to the theater and encouraged her to write plays as a means to express herself and explore her unconventional upbringing. This led to Samuel... Read More →

Ashley Miller

creator/ep DOTA: Dragon’s Blood; writer X-Men: First Class, Thor; co-host The 4:30 Movie, Cartoon Barroom

Thursday October 21, 2021 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Vestry Conference Room 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Pitch

2:45pm CDT

Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Jaimie Woo

Senior Development Producer, Culture House

Jaimie is a Senior Development Producer at Culture House Media, a Black, Brown, and Women-owned premium production company for film + television and a robust cultural consultancy. In a time of deep social reckoning, Culture House makes entertainment forward work at the intersection... Read More →

Lowell Blank

producer Holes, Addict Named Hal

LOWELL BLANK is a producer and executive with over twenty-five years’ experience on both Hollywood studio and independent productions. Blank was a Producer on the Walt Disney Pictures hit HOLES, directed by Andrew Davis, and starring Sigourney Weaver, Jon Voight, and Patricia Arquette... Read More →

Jihan Crowther

writer/producer The Underground Railroad, The Man in the High Castle, Daisy Jones & The Six

Jihan Crowther is a TV writer whose credits include The Underground Railroad, The Man in the High Castle, Daisy Jones & The Six, and Here and Now. She is currently developing a half-hour romantic comedy-drama with Big Beach TV and a one-hour drama with Fair Harbor Productions.Jihan... Read More →

Jeffrey Brown

producer Cowboys, Nothing Stays The Same, Through The Repellent Fence, Yallah! Underground, No No: A Dockumentary

Jeffrey Brown has produced a number of award-winning narrative features and feature documentaries in Europe, Africa, Asia, and N. America, playing festivals such as Sundance, IDFA, Tribeca, SXSW, Rotterdam, New York FF, Berlinale, Edinburgh, Durban, and being released on Netflix... Read More →

Alexandra E. Hartman

freelance writer Cowboy Bebop; writer Ghost Tape

Alexandra is a queer genre and dark dramedy writer, who from an early age, was primed by opera singer parents to tell fierce, female-led stories. She began as the showrunner’s assistant on Netflix’s ALTERED CARBON, then CBS’ ZOO, before being upped to Script Coordinator/Writer’s... Read More →

Thursday October 21, 2021 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Crail Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Roundtable

2:45pm CDT

Second Rounders and Above Panel: The Writer/Manager Relationship

So, you've written a script! Now what? Every great writer has a great manager behind them. Managers are essential to actually get your work (and yourself) out there. Join AFF Script Competition winner Henry Jones and his manager Ryan Cunningham as they discuss the writer/manager relationship and how to make the most of your partnership.

This panel is for Second Rounders and Above. Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Trey Selman

Moderator

Speakers

Henry Jones

writer Jupiter's Legacy, Black Summer, Arcane

Henry's written feature scripts for a number of companies including: MGM, Paramount, Bad Robot, Universal, and New Line Cinema. He wrote on JUPITER'S LEGACY (Netflix), Riot Games' ARCANE (Netflix), BLACK SUMMER (Netflix), and has a host of other properties in process at studios and... Read More →

Ryan Cunningham

Manager/Producer, Anonymous Content

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 21, 2021 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Austin Club, Medallion Room 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Script Competition Session

4:15pm CDT

How to Work the Conference (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Speakers

Kevin Hamedani

writer Darius the Great Is Not Okay, Infidel; writer/producer/showrunner Tether, writer/showrunner Stephen King's N.; writer/director Saviors, Zombies of Mas

Daniel Petrie, Jr.

Partner, Enderby Entertainment; writer Beverly Hills Cop, The Big Easy; director Dawn Patrol, Toy Soldiers; executive producer An Ordinary Man, Blackway, Zero Contact; former WGAW President

Susan O'Connor

story consultant Batman (Telltale), Dishonored 2, BioShock 2; lead writer Star Wars 1313, Far Cry 2; writer Tomb Raider (Crystal Dynamics), BioShock; Interactive-Story Consultant, Netflix

Thursday October 21, 2021 4:15pm - 5:30pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

5:00pm CDT

Opening Night Reception

Opening Night Reception is the perfect place to reconnect with AFF friends, compare notes on which movies you can't miss, and come together to kick off the festival!
Must have an AFF Producers Badge for entry. All parties are 21 and up.

Sponsors

Bogle Vineyards

Karbach Brewing Company

Thursday October 21, 2021 5:00pm - 7:00pm CDT
Fair Market 1100 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702

Party

5:30pm CDT

Second Rounders and Above Live Virtual Panel: Writing and Creative Development at Pixar

Pixar Animation Studios has a story development process that is unique in the industry. In this panel, Mike Jones (co-writer of Soul and Luca) and Jason Headley (co-writer Onward) will describe the intensely collaborative way writers work with directors and story artists. Development Executives Megan Alderson and Emily Mollenkopf will walk you through how Pixar scouts writers, matches them with directors, then supports them in creating engaging characters, believable worlds, and compelling stories.

This panel is for Second Rounders and Above. Must have an AFF Producers or Virtual Badge for entry.

Speakers

Megan Alderson

Virtual Panelist

Since joining Pixar Animation Studios in 2013, Megan Alderson has worked on a number of films including Inside Out, The Good Dinosaur, Finding Dory, Coco, Soul, Onward and Turning Red. As Creative Development Executive, Megan supports projects in early development, scouts screenwriters... Read More →

Jason Headley

Virtual Panelist

Jason Headley is the co-writer of Pixar's "Onward" and the writer/director of the SXSW Special Jury Prize-winning feature "A Bad Idea Gone Wrong." His short films—including the viral videos "It's Not About the Nail" and "F*ck That: An Honest Meditation"—have been featured at Banksy's... Read More →

Mike Jones

Virtual Panelist

Mike Jones is the Senior Story and Creative Artist at Pixar Animation Studios. He is the co-writer of SOUL (2020) and LUCA (2021).Born and raised in South Texas, Jones graduated from NYU. Before Pixar, Jones was a working screenwriter for over 20 years, writing scripts for Columbia... Read More →

Emily Mollenkopf

Virtual Panelist

Emily Mollenkopf is the Development Executive at Pixar Animation Studios. Emily joined Pixar in 2011 on Pixar’s first TV special; Toy Story of TERROR! She began her career at G4TV producing video game-centric television for X-Play and Attack of the Show. As Development Executive... Read More →

Thursday October 21, 2021 5:30pm - 6:45pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

6:00pm CDT

The Writer/Manager Relationship (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

So, you've written a script! Now what? Every great writer has a great manager behind them. Managers are essential to actually get your work (and yourself) out there. Join AFF Script Competition winner Henry Jones and his manager Ryan Cunningham as they discuss the writer/manager relationship and how to make the most of your partnership.

Must have an AFF Producers or Virtual Badge for entry.

Speakers

The Same Storm - OPENING NIGHT FILM

(USA, 99 MIN)

Writer/director: Peter Hedges
Cast: Sandra Oh, Mary-Louise Parker, Elaine May, Noma Dumezweni, Moses Ingram, Alison Pill, Rosemarie DeWitt, Ron Livingston, Raúl Castillo, Jin Ha

THE SAME STORM is an intimate, emotional glimpse into the lives of twenty-four characters persevering over the spring and summer of 2020. The film focuses on our great ache for human connection and demonstrates our fierce determination to maintain relationships when familiar avenues we’ve long taken to touch one another are abruptly closed off.

PARAMOUNT AND STATE THEATRE BAG POLICY*

We have a Clear Bag Policy to minimize contact that a bag search would require.
Clear bags should not exceed 14″ x 12″ x 6″ in size.
Small, non-clear clutch bags will be allowed, and should not exceed 4.5” x 6.5” in size.

Speakers

Peter Hedges

writer/director The Same Storm

PETER HEDGES is a novelist, playwright, screenwriter, and film director.Hedges’ first novel What’s Eating Gilbert Grape was the basis for the 1993 film, which he also wrote. His other novels are An Ocean in Iowa (1998) and The Heights (2010). His novels have been published... Read More →

Thursday October 21, 2021 7:00pm - 8:59pm CDT
Paramount Theatre

Film, Marquee

7:10pm CDT

He's Dead & So Am I

(USA, 86 MIN)

Writer: Gabe Martinez
Directors: Gabe Casdorph, Gabe Martinez
Cast: Melanie Stone, Gabe Casdorph, Aubrey Reynolds, Jason Marley Rain, Alex Gunter

Stuck in Purgatory for 30 years, a pair of degenerate ghosts try to scheme their way into Heaven by “helping” a living woman find her missing sister.

Thursday October 21, 2021 7:10pm - 8:56pm CDT
Galaxy Highland - Screen 4 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752

Film, Comedy Vanguard

7:10pm CDT

He's Dead & So Am I (Virtual Screening)

Unmothered (Virtual Screening)

Thursday October 21, 2021 7:10pm - 9:07pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Student Short

7:15pm CDT

Ragged Heart

TRAILER

WORLD PREMIERE

(USA, 86 MIN)

Writers: Evan McNary, Debrah McNary
Director: Evan McNary
Cast: Patterson Hood, Josh Mikel, Jim White, Kate McManus, Eddie Craddock

When his estranged daughter Miranda tragically dies, Wyatt sets out to complete the last song she wrote, hoping to somehow redeem himself and let her rest in peace.

Thursday October 21, 2021 7:15pm - 8:59pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church

Film, Narrative Feature

7:15pm CDT

Ghosts of the Ozarks

TRAILER

WORLD PREMIERE

(USA, 100 MIN)

Writers: Tara Perry, Sean Anthony Davis, Jordan Wayne Long
Directors: Jordan Wayne Long, Matt Glass
Cast: Tim Blake Nelson, Angela Bettis, Thomas Hobson, Phil Morris, Tara Perry, David Arquette, Graham Gordy, David Aaron Baker

In 1866, a young doctor is summoned by his uncle to a remote town in the Ozarks only to discover upon his arrival that the utopian paradise is not all that it seems to be.

PARAMOUNT AND STATE THEATRE BAG POLICY*

We have a Clear Bag Policy to minimize contact that a bag search would require.
Clear bags should not exceed 14″ x 12″ x 6″ in size.
Small, non-clear clutch bags will be allowed, and should not exceed 4.5” x 6.5” in size.

Thursday October 21, 2021 7:15pm - 9:15pm CDT
State Theatre

Film, Dark Matters

7:15pm CDT

Ghosts of the Ozarks (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

Thursday October 21, 2021 7:15pm - 9:15pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Dark Matters

8:00pm CDT

New Jack

TRAILER

WORLD PREMIERE

(USA, 61 MIN)

Directors: Danny Lee, Noah Lee

Back in the late 90s - infamous ECW wrestler, New Jack, was a headlining professional wrestling star. Now, twenty years later... ageing and much less agile - he ekes out a living performing for handfuls of diehard fans in community centers up and down the east coast. Blind in one eye, skull cracked, and a heartbreaking loss of memory- New Jack opens up to us about a damaging & violent childhood that led him to where he is today.

Thursday October 21, 2021 8:00pm - 9:20pm CDT
Hideout Theatre 617 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

Film, Documentary Feature

10:15pm CDT

Shorts Program 2: Altered Realities

The Atomic Spawn

(USA, 14 MIN)

Writer/Director: Arthur Veenema

In 1952 on a nuclear test site, a timid young worker discovers a small egg within the irradiated zone.

HEARTLAND

(USA, 11 MIN)

Writer/Director: Jahmil Eady

A woman attempts to immortalize her dying grandfather using virtual reality technology, but her obsession with documenting drives a wedge between them.

TOB.IA

(Italy, 15 MIN)

Writer/Director: Sana Emanuele

Agata and Giorgio lost their first and only child. After some time, Giorgio contacts a Foundation that offers Tobia, a highly advanced robot that is provided as psychological support during the grieving process. The robot thus enters the couple’s life with its load of hope and illusion.

Jettison

(USA, 11 MIN)

Writer/Director: JJ Pollack

A restless young woman ships off to fight an interstellar war, only to struggle with the effects of being cut off from her home by both time and space.

Fempire

(USA, 16 MIN)

Writer/Director: Honora Talbott

In a near future when women rule the world, a politician visits a "Grooming School" to snag a trophy husband, but her boring date takes a turn when her Stepford-y match stops pretending to be something he's not.

Prisoner #1616

(USA, 20 MIN)

Writer/Director: Michael Fodera

Rudy Vaspar, a dangerous and violent convict, sits comfortably behind bars in a maximum-security prison. His day is interrupted by a surprise visit from Monica Klee and her assistant, Vince, as Rudy soon discovers he has been selected for a scientific study.

One Small Step

(USA, 12 MIN)

Writer/Director: Zachary Purcell

When a team of scientist stumble upon a revolutionary technology, Dr. Collins must decide between his dreams and his family.

Sponsors

Whataburger

Thursday October 21, 2021 10:15pm - Friday October 22, 2021 12:14am CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Film, Shorts Program

10:15pm CDT

Fempire

TRAILER

Fempire

(USA, 16 MIN)

Writer/Director: Honora Talbott

In a near future when women rule the world, a politician visits a "Grooming School" to snag a trophy husband, but her boring date takes a turn when her Stepford-y match stops pretending to be something he's not.

Sponsors

Whataburger

Thursday October 21, 2021 10:15pm - Friday October 22, 2021 12:14am CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Short Film, Narrative Short

10:15pm CDT

HEARTLAND

HEARTLAND

(USA, 11 MIN)

Writer/Director: Jahmil Eady

A woman attempts to immortalize her dying grandfather using virtual reality technology, but her obsession with documenting drives a wedge between them.

Sponsors

Whataburger

Thursday October 21, 2021 10:15pm - Friday October 22, 2021 12:14am CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Short Film, Narrative Student Short

10:15pm CDT

Jettison

TRAILER

Jettison

(USA, 11 MIN)

Writer/Director: JJ Pollack

A restless young woman ships off to fight an interstellar war, only to struggle with the effects of being cut off from her home by both time and space.

Sponsors

Whataburger

Thursday October 21, 2021 10:15pm - Friday October 22, 2021 12:14am CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Short Film, Narrative Short

It Hatched

WORLD PREMIERE

(Iceland, 97 MIN)

Writer/Director: Elvar Gunnarsson
Story by: Magnús Ómarsson, Elvar Gunnarsson
Cast: Gunnar Kristinsson, Vivian Ólafsdóttir, Þór Túliníus, Björn Jörundur, Halldóra Geirharðsdóttir, Halldór Gylfason, Darren Foreman, Magnús Ómarsson

It Hatched follows the couple Mira & Pétur who journey from Nashville, TN to Iceland, where they’re planning to open a guesthouse in a remote fjord. Their plans are soon altered when an ancient Icelandic demon starts harassing them with vivid night terrors. What follows is a chain of events that include Pétur facing dementia,
Mira laying an infant-sized egg and the both of them squaring up against the tall task of...parenting.

Thursday October 21, 2021 10:30pm - Friday October 22, 2021 12:27am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church

Film, Dark Matters

10:30pm CDT

It Hatched (Virtual Screening)

Thursday October 21, 2021 10:30pm - Friday October 22, 2021 12:27am CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Dark Matters

10:30pm CDT

The French Dispatch

Limited Capacity seats available

(France, 107 MIN)

writer/director: Wes Anderson
Cast: Benico del Toro, Adrien Brody, Tilda Swinton, Léa Seydoux, Frances McDormand, Timothée Chalamet, Lyna Khoudri, Jeffrey Wright, Mathieu Amalric, Stephen Park, Bill Murray and Owen Wilson

THE FRENCH DISPATCH brings to life a collection of stories from the final issue of an American magazine published in a fictional 20th-century French city.

PARAMOUNT AND STATE THEATRE BAG POLICY*

We have a Clear Bag Policy to minimize contact that a bag search would require.
Clear bags should not exceed 14″ x 12″ x 6″ in size.
Small, non-clear clutch bags will be allowed, and should not exceed 4.5” x 6.5” in size.

Sponsors

UT Press

Thursday October 21, 2021 10:30pm - Friday October 22, 2021 12:33am CDT
Paramount Theatre

Film, Marquee

10:45pm CDT

Karmalink

(Cambodia, USA, 102 MIN)

Writer: Jake Wachtel, Christopher Larsen
Director: Jake Wachtel
Cast: Leng Heng Prak, Srey Leak Chhith, Sahajak Boonthanakit, Cindy Sirinya Bishop, Rous Mony, Sveng Socheata

In near-future Phnom Penh, a teenage boy teams up with a street-smart girl from his neighborhood to untangle the mystery of his past-life dreams. What begins as a hunt for a Buddhist treasure soon leads to greater discoveries that will either end in digital enlightenment or a total loss of identity.

PARAMOUNT AND STATE THEATRE BAG POLICY*

We have a Clear Bag Policy to minimize contact that a bag search would require.
Clear bags should not exceed 14″ x 12″ x 6″ in size.
Small, non-clear clutch bags will be allowed, and should not exceed 4.5” x 6.5” in size.

Thursday October 21, 2021 10:45pm - Friday October 22, 2021 12:47am CDT
State Theatre

Film, Marquee

11:00pm CDT

Late Night Welcome Party Presented by Vuele

The Late Night Welcome Party celebrates the first full day of panels and is a great end to the day's packed schedule.This party sets the tone for the rest of the week as panelists, filmmakers, screenwriters and attendees discuss what the rest of the conference and festival have in store. Grab a drink and enjoy the first late night party-but pace yourself, you've got a lot more ahead!
Must have an AFF Conference, Producers or Press Badge for entry. All parties are 21 and up.

Sponsors

Bogle Vineyards

Karbach Brewing Company

Vuele

Thursday October 21, 2021 11:00pm - Friday October 22, 2021 1:00am CDT
Fair Market 1100 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702

Party

9:00am CDT

A Conversation with Derek Kolstad

Join us for a conversation with Derek Kolstad, the writer behind such hits as the John Wick franchise and Nobody. Hear how Kolstad weaves human stories into action set pieces and creates characters you can’t help but root for.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Executive Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

Derek Kolstad

writer John Wick, John Wick Chapter 2, John Wick Chapter 3 - Parabellum, Nobody, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

Derek Kolstad is the writer/creator of the JOHN WICK franchise. In the past two year, Derek has adapted the Korean thriller THE MAN FROM NOWHERE for Newline, sold a pitch with Gerard McMurray to Sony in a competitive situation, and wrote on Marvel’s hit limited series FALCON AND... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Fact v. Fiction

Based on a true story. Inspired by true events. So many stories we see on film or television are preceded by this message. And while bringing a true story to the screen is exciting, what happens when you need to bend the truth to serve your narrative? Do you risk changing history or even sprinkling in a little magical realism? Join our panelists as they discuss fact vs. fiction and tackling real life events on screen.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Casey Baron

Director of Programming and Industry Relations, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Born and raised in the small island of Dominica located in the West Indies, Casey Baron moved to Austin after graduating from Florida State University with a degree in English – Editing, Writing, and Media. While attending FSU, Casey worked for The Torchlight Program. During his... Read More →

Speakers

Jihan Crowther

writer/producer The Underground Railroad, The Man in the High Castle, Daisy Jones & The Six

Zach Baylin

writer, King Richard, Creed III, The Crow (remake)

Zach Baylin is a Los Angeles based screenwriter and co-founder of YOUNGBLOOD PICTURES. His script KING RICHARD, about the father of tennis greats Venus and Serena Williams, was #2 on the 2018 BLACKLIST and recently completed filming for WARNER BROS. starring Will Smith, Jon Berenthal... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Austin Club, Medallion Room 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

First Three Pages, Live!

Join AFF for a morning 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 for entry.

Moderators

Dave Buckman

Host, 2021 Awards Luncheon; The Second City, Boom Chicago, American Crime, Home Free

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 →

Friday October 22, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Page One

First impressions are important, there's no doubt about that. The opening scene sets the tone and establishes themes that will be explored throughout the rest of the story, so it's important to get it right. Join panelists who've perfected the intriguing and informative opening scene and learn what's sure to make a viewer stick along for the ride.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Harrison Glaser

former Film Competition Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

Oren Uziel

writer/director Shimmer Lake; writer 22 Jump Street, Freaks of Nature, The Cloverfield Paradox, Mortal Kombat, Escape Room: Tournament of Champions

Oren UzielOren Uziel’s writing credits include 22 JUMP STREET, THE CLOVERFIELD PARADOX, FREAKS OF NATURE, MORTAL KOMBAT, ESCAPE ROOM: TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS, and SHIMMER LAKE, which he wrote and directed. He’s currently working on a number of projects, including SPY vs. GUY for... Read More →

Alvaro Rodriguez

writer American Rust, Florida Man; executive producer/co-creator Seis Manos; screenwriter Machete, Last Rampage

Born and raised along the Texas-Mexico border, Alvaro Rodriguez is executive producer/co-creator of Seis Manos, a Netflix original adult-animated series from Austin’s own Powerhouse Animation. A coming-of-age feature set in 1950s Italy, You, Mine, is in development for a 2021 start... Read More →

Matt Cook

writer/co-producer Triple Nine, By Way of Helena; co-writer Patriots Day

Matt Cook is a screenwriter, director, and producer of various studio and independent films and television. His work includes The Duel, Triple Nine, Patriots Day, The Informer, Angel Has Fallen, and the upcoming film The Plane. Both The Duel (previously known as By Way of Helena... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Austin Pitch #3

It’s the 19th Annual Austin Film Festival Pitch Competition! This unique event allows contestants 90 seconds to pitch their best ideas to a panel of judges made up of producers, managers, and screenwriters in a constructive and friendly environment. Give your best pitch in 90 seconds and secure your spot in the finals at the Pitch Finale Party on Saturday night.

All Pitch Sessions require an advance sign-up and are held at St. David’s Episcopal Church in the Vestry Conference Room, located at 301 E 8th Street.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Speakers

Brandy Finmark

writer Chelsea, Crossing Swords, Crank Yankers

Brandy Finmark is a feature and TV comedy writer.In 2015, Brandy and her writing partner wrote a sketch for Comedy Central, The Glass Ceiling Board Game for Girls, which went viral. In 2016, she and her writing partner teamed up with Feigco and sold an original spec called Pros... Read More →

Cam Cannon

writer/producer Zero Contact; writer/executive producer USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage; executive producer Give 'Em Hell Malone, Tokarev a/k/a Rage; development executive The Big Bang, Casino Jack

A native of Atlanta, Cam Cannon attended University of Georgia, where he majored in Drama and worked on several student films in various capacities. After college, he and his wife co-produced a micro-budget feature and decided to move to Los Angeles in 1999. He began his career in... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Vestry Conference Room 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Pitch

9:00am CDT

Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Christian Bersani

Creative Executive, Josephson Entertainment

Christian Bersani is a Creative Executive with Josephson Entertainment in both Film & TV. Having joined the company in 2018, he continues to identify, develop, and produce projects for the scripted feature and series slates; his most recent work including projects set up with Sony... Read More →

Daniel Petrie, Jr.

Partner, Enderby Entertainment; writer Beverly Hills Cop, The Big Easy; director Dawn Patrol, Toy Soldiers; executive producer An Ordinary Man, Blackway, Zero Contact; former WGAW President

Rick Dugdale

President, Enderby Entertainment; producer The Intrigo Anthology, Recon, Zero Contact

Rick Dugdale is the President and CEO of Enderby Entertainment, a film finance and production company founded in 2006 by Dugdale and his filmmaking partner, Daniel Petrie, Jr. Dugdale oversees all aspects of Enderby Entertainment’s business, finance and production and spearheads... Read More →

Jill Chamberlain

author, The Nutshell Technique: Crack the Secret of Successful Screenwriting

Bill True

writer Runaway, Hope Springs, Crazy Evil Genius; Head of Dramatic Writing, Scottsdale School of Film+Theatre

Friday October 22, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Crail Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Roundtable

9:00am CDT

Second Rounders and Above Panel: The Writer's Team

As writers, we know that obtaining representation is a huge hurdle needed to turn our passion into a career. Knowing the inner workings of agents and managers and identifying how they help you as a writer is paramount in building a team. Join managers and agents as they look at representation in a larger context and explore how they work together to support writers’ careers.

This panel is for Second Rounders and Above. Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Cindy McCreery

writer The Honey Girls, Something in the Water, Haven, Free Willy: Escape from Pirate's Cove; Disney Feature Fellow, Associate Professor/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 →

Speakers

Adam Levine

Founding Partner, Verve Talent & Literary Agency

Adam Levine is one of the founding partners of Verve, a premier full-service agency with offices in Los Angeles and New York. An energetic and relentless voice on behalf of his clients, Levine is constantly setting the bar and rising above it when it comes to all aspects of literary... Read More →

David Boxerbaum

Partner, Verve Talent & Literary Agency

David Boxerbaum is a prominent literary agent and partner at Verve, representing top tier talent including showrunners, franchise-builders and huge horror helmers. While he has earned his reputation as the best in the spec game, David also champions a diverse roster of writers and... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Script Competition Session

9:00am CDT

Semifinalists and Above Panel: Television Development with Diversity Hire Ltd.

Join us for a discussion with Diversity Hire Ltd. as the team breaks down the development process, creating a television series, and how to utilize competitions and fellowship programs to make connections and launch careers

This panel is for Semifinalists and Above. Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Matt Dy

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

Speakers

April Shih

writer You’re The Worst, Undone, Mrs. America; writer/supervising producer Dave; Executive Producer, Diversity Hire, Ltd.

April Shih is a WGA Award-winning television writer/producer and filmmaker. April has several series in development at FX including LOVE RULES with producers Larry Wilmore, Joanna Coles, and The District, and has series in development at WBTV and Paramount Television Studios. April... Read More →

Jen Goyne Blake

Founding Director, Episodic Lab at the Sundance Institute; Executive Producer, Diversity Hire, Ltd.

Before partnering with April Shih at DIVERSITY HIRE, Jen Goyne Blake was the Founding Director of the Episodic Lab at the Sundance Institute. For nearly 7 years, she headed the program dedicated to nurturing television writers from underrepresented communities. Blake shepherded over... Read More →

Ansley Martinez

Creative Executive, Diversity Hire Ltd.

Ansley Martinez is a creative executive at Diversity Hire Ltd, April Shih's production company that is currently under an overall deal at FX. Prior to this role, she was at Rise Management in talent and literary management and Creative Artists Agency in the Comedy Touring and Personal... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Script Competition Session

9:00am CDT

Script Library

Friday October 22, 2021 9:00am - 4:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Club 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Script Reading

10:30am CDT

Script Reading: From the Perspective of a Canoe

Limited Capacity filling up

Join us for a live reading of the Finalist play From the Perspective of a Canoe by Amy Dellagiarino featuring local Austin actors bringing Competition scripts to life!

Logline: A family awkwardly attempts to process their new normal after they find themselves unexpectedly thrown into the center of a local tragedy.

Friday October 22, 2021 10:30am - 12:30pm CDT
The Austin Club, Robert Looney Suite 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Script Reading

10:45am CDT

A Conversation with Glen Mazzara

Join us for an in-depth conversation with writer/creator/showrunner Glen Mazzara. In this panel, we'll dive into Mazzara's journey through television, from his days working on classics like The Walking Dead and The Shield, to his work creating Damien. Hear about the ins and outs of the industry, and how having multiple roles in the television industry has developed Mazzara as a versatile writer.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Harrison Glaser

former Film Competition Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

Glen Mazzara

Creator/showrunner Damien, Showrunner The Walking Dead, Executive Producer The Shield

Glen Mazzara is a television writer/creator/showrunner whose most recent work was A&E’s series, DAMIEN, based on the classic horror film, “The Omen.” Before that, Mazzara was Executive Producer and Showrunner for AMC's record-breaking series, THE WALKING DEAD, which earned him... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

A Conversation with Peter Hedges

Join writer/director Peter Hedges (What's Eating Gilbert Grape, About a Boy, Ben is Back) for a conversation on writing and directing and his new film The Same Storm (our 2021 Opening Night Film). Hedges will discuss writing for an ensemble cast, pulling inspiration from your surroundings, and how creativity can flourish even under arduous circumstances.

Must have an Producers or Conference Badge to attend.

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Executive Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

Peter Hedges

writer/director The Same Storm

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am 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, memorable, and rich characters you're bound to fall in love with.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Speakers

Meg LeFauve

writer Inside Out, The Good Dinosaur, Captain Marvel

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 the new Peacock Channel as well as the animated film... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Austin Club, Medallion Room 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Indie Film Track: Adapting a Story

Adapting a story from one medium to another can lead to a myriad of challenges. How can I condense a 400 page novel into a 90 minute film? Is it possible to use a one minute real-life event and construct a compelling narrative? In this panel, writers will discuss the creative decisions that help them take a book, short story, or real-life event and put it on the big screen.

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

Speakers

Seanne Winslow

co-writer/co-director The Falconer

Seanne Winslow is a writer, director, producer. Born to American parents, she grew up in Germany and spent time in England, Israel, and the Middle East. From an early age, Seanne experienced how stories can bring people together, regardless of their background. So, she became a filmmaker... Read More →

Huda Razzak

co-writer/co-director The Ocean Duck

Huda Razzak was born in Chicago, Illinois to parents who immigrated from Iraq. In 2021, she graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design with a Master of Fine Arts degree in Animation. Huda focuses primarily in writing, storyboarding, and production. She is also a two-time ScreenCraft... Read More →

Courtney Ware

co-writer/director The Soldier Plant

Courtney Ware is a writer, director, and editor. Her award-winning feature directorial debut, SUNNY IN THE DARK was released in 2016 and her short film work has been seen in over 40 national and international locations. The last three feature films she edited all premiered at the... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Internal or External: Writing Compelling Conflicts

Whether it is internal or external, conflict is the driving force of any compelling narrative. Get out your boxing gloves and passive-aggressive remarks for this one as we'll be guiding you through the importance of creating effective conflict to elevate your writing.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Pat Hazell

Moderator

Showtime declared Pat Hazell one of the five funniest people in America. His 25 years of experience as a writer, director, producer & creative consultant have made him a go-to guy for new American theater.Pat Hazell is one of the original writers for NBC’s Seinfeld, a Tonight Show... Read More →

Speakers

Javier "Javi" Grillo-Marxuach

writer/producer Lost, The Dark Crystal, Cowboy Bebop; creator The Middleman

Though best known as one of the Emmy winning writer/producers of Lost (Outstanding Drama Series, 2005) and The Dark Crystal (Outstanding Children's Program, 2020), and for creating The Middleman graphic novel and TV series, Javier "Javi" Grillo-Marxuach is a prolific of TV, movies... Read More →

VJ Boyd

writer/producer S.W.A.T., Justified

Herschel Weingrod

writer Trading Places, Brewster's Millions, Twins, Kindergarten Cop, Space Jam; producer Falling Down

Herschel Weingrod is a graduate with Honors at the University of Wisconsin with a B.A in History and then attained an MFA from the London Film School. While in London, he was also employed as a film critic and reviewer at Time Out as well as The Monthly Film Bulletin, a publication... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

The Future of Hollywood

Join panelists to discuss how filmmaking and storytelling have shifted since COVID and what changes we may see as we continue to learn to adapt to new restrictions and changes in the way people interact with stories.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

William Nix

executive producer The Prophet, This Is Ragtime: The Birth of American Music, Power, Return to Afghanistan and An Accidental Cuban; Firedancer; producer Gibran

William Nix is the Chairman/CEO of Creative Projects Group® and a Producer with extensive experience in the entertainment, media, sports, and intellectual property fields. He is also a Partner in the social and environmental impact investment firm, LOHAS Advisors and Capital. He... Read More →

Speakers

Rick Dugdale

President, Enderby Entertainment; producer The Intrigo Anthology, Recon, Zero Contact

Linda Yvette Chávez

writer I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter, Flamin’ Hot; co-showrunner/co-creator, Gentefied

Linda Yvette Chávez is the co-creator, co-showrunner, and executive producer of Netflix’s hit series GENTEFIED. A TV series produced by America Ferrera and MACRO Studios, GENTEFIED's first season was nominated for three Imagen Foundation awards, including Best Comedy Series. While... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

What Makes a Manager?

Managers are the backbone of a writer’s career, which is no easy task. Join these top-notch managers as they discuss their approach to finding writers, how they manage their relationship, and how to keep things moving forward!

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Bill True

writer Runaway, Hope Springs, Crazy Evil Genius; Head of Dramatic Writing, Scottsdale School of Film+Theatre

Speakers

John Zaozirny

Literary Manager/Head, Bellevue Productions; producer Infinite, Eli, Parallel, Always Watching

John runs Bellevue Productions, a leading literary management company with a focus on discovering and breaking new writers and writer-directors, in both the feature film and television spaces.John's clients’ writing and directing credits include INFINITE, PARALLEL, ELI, BAD MATCH... Read More →

Dana M. Jackson

Manager, Echo Lake Entertainment

Dana Jackson has built and guided the careers of such scribes as Bert V. Royal, the award-winning playwright of Dog Sees God and screenwriter of the critically acclaimed hit film Easy A, and Karen DiConcetto who, along with Royal, created the television series Recovery Road for... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Austin Pitch #4

It’s the 19th Annual Austin Film Festival Pitch Competition! This unique event allows contestants 90 seconds to pitch their best ideas to a panel of judges made up of producers, managers, and screenwriters in a constructive and friendly environment. Give your best pitch in 90 seconds and secure your spot in the finals at the Pitch Finale Party on Saturday night.

All Pitch Sessions require an advance sign-up and are held at St. David’s Episcopal Church in the Vestry Conference Room, located at 301 E 8th Street.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Speakers

Dan Hernandez

writer Pokémon Detective Pikachu, Addams Family 2; Co-Showrunner Koala Man

Dan Hernandez and Benji Samit are writer-producers whose television credits include Central Park, the Peabody-nominated One Day at a Time, The Tick, Super Fun Night, and 1600 Penn. They recently created the Disney Channel original show Ultra Violet, which is in production. Dan and... Read More →

Amy Louise Johnson

writer/producer Servant, Messiah, Nightflyers, The Long Road Home, Tyrant

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Vestry Conference Room 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Pitch

10:45am CDT

Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Taylor Streitz

writer/producer Stargirl

Taylor Streitz is currently a Writer/Producer on CW's superhero show Stargirl. After attending the University of Texas at Austin, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams of becoming a screenwriter. After receiving an overwhelmingly positive response on her pilots – Made in... Read More →

Henry Jones

writer Jupiter's Legacy, Black Summer, Arcane

Ryan Cunningham

Manager/Producer, Anonymous Content

Lindsay Graham

EP 1865, Terms; host American Scandal, American History Tellers, Business Movers

Lindsay Graham is the CEO and founder of Airship, a podcast publishing company. He is also the Webby Award-winning and Ambie-nominated host of the podcasts American Scandal, American History Tellers, American Elections: Wicked Game and Business Movers, and is the executive producer... Read More →

Cindy McCreery

writer The Honey Girls, Something in the Water, Haven, Free Willy: Escape from Pirate's Cove; Disney Feature Fellow, Associate Professor/Screenwriting Area Head, UT Austin

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Crail Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Roundtable

10:45am CDT

Second Rounders Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Get in-depth answers to your questions about the art, craft and business of writing for film and television. This roundtable session offers registrants exclusive access to screenwriters, directors, producers, executives, and studio reps in an informal setting. Come prepared with questions that focus on the importance of both the creative and business sides of breaking into and writing for film.

Roundtables required advance sign-up through the Screenplay Department.

This roundtable is for Second Rounders and Above. Must have an AFF Producers or Conference badge for entry.

Speakers

Dylan Kussman

writer/director The Steps; director Wrestling Jerusalem; writer The Mummy

A SAG/AFTRA member since 1971 and WGA member since 2007, Dylan got his big break into feature films playing Cameron across from Robin Williams in Peter Weir's Dead Poets Society. His screenwriting career started soon after when his scripted feature Burn won a grand jury prize at the... Read More →

Kelsi Fleming

Creative Executive, Josephson Entertainment

Kelsi Fleming is a Creative Executive at Josephson Entertainment. She works on both the Film and Television slates, identifying and developing projects. Recent work includes the new YA Franchise "Caster" set up at Paramount Pictures with Scholastic Entertainment and Weed Road Pictures... Read More →

Hank Jones

writer Bel-Air, Grownish, The Neighborhood

After completing his M.A. in English (Teaching of Writing & Lit.) from George Mason University, Henry “Hank” Jones quit his job at a D.C. tax publication and drove to Los Angeles to pursue a career in scriptwriting. Hank worked on any indie project he could find until he was recommended... Read More →

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

Felischa Marye

creator/writer/producer/showrunner Bigger; writer 13 Reasons Why

Benji Samit

writer Pokémon Detective Pikachu, Addams Family 2; Co-Showrunner Koala Man

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Sumners Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Script Competition Session

12:15pm CDT

Fact v. Fiction (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Speakers

Jihan Crowther

writer/producer The Underground Railroad, The Man in the High Castle, Daisy Jones & The Six

Zach Baylin

writer, King Richard, Creed III, The Crow (remake)

Friday October 22, 2021 12:15pm - 1:30pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

1:00pm CDT

With This Breath I Fly

TRAILER

WORLD PREMIRE

(USA, 78 MIN)

Directors: Sam French, Clementine Malpas

At the height of the international occupation of Afghanistan, two women – Gulnaz, raped and impregnated by her uncle, and Farida, on the run from an abusive husband – are imprisoned on charges of “moral crimes” by an Afghan justice system that is supported by billions of dollars of aid money from the European Union. Shot over ten years, "With This Breath I Fly" follows these two courageous women as they fight for their freedom against a patriarchal Afghan society determined to keep them bound to tribal culture, while exposing the complicity of the European Union in censoring their voices.

Friday October 22, 2021 1:00pm - 2:38pm CDT
Galaxy Highland - Screen 4 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752

Film, Documentary Feature

1:00pm CDT

With This Breath I Fly (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

WORLD PREMIRE

(USA,78 MIN)

Directors: Sam French, Clementine Malpas

At the height of the international occupation of Afghanistan, two women – Gulnaz, raped and impregnated by her uncle, and Farida, on the run from an abusive husband – are imprisoned on charges of “moral crimes” by an Afghan justice system that is supported by billions of dollars of aid money from the European Union. Shot over ten years, "With This Breath I Fly" follows these two courageous women as they fight for their freedom against a patriarchal Afghan society determined to keep them bound to tribal culture, while exposing the complicity of the European Union in censoring their voices.

Friday October 22, 2021 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Short Film, Narrative Student Short

1:00pm CDT

Play It Again (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

Friday October 22, 2021 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Short

1:00pm CDT

Princess of Jerusalem (Virtual Screening)

Friday October 22, 2021 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Short

1:00pm CDT

Two Tickets To Mars (Virtual Screening)

Two Tickets to Mars

(USA, 17 MIN)

Writer/Director: Kavita Parekh

In pre-apocalyptic New York City, Earth is facing inevitable doom. This is a love story.

Friday October 22, 2021 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Student Short

1:00pm CDT

Script Reading: Shorts + Digital Series

Limited Capacity filling up

Join us for a live reading of Short and Digital Series screenplays that advanced in the Script Competition, featuring local Austin actors bringing Competition scripts to life!

Crooked Woods (Second Round Digital Series) by Katherine Cox and Matt McCarthy: A cryptid-obsessed mythology professor, his pragmatic wife, and the staff of an immersive horror experience fight for their survival after they awaken the fabled Crooked Woods Creature.

Death Roll (Second Round Short) by Alexandra Keister: A runaway foster kid hitches a ride down the bayou.

La Pianista (Finalist Short) by Aidan Terre Moretti: A young pianist must cope with the loss of her father while preparing for her first major performance.

Rare as Red Hair (Semifinalist Short) by Robbie Robertson: The aftermath of an emotional funeral causes a grieving father and mother to reexamine their early life decision to have gender normalization surgery performed on their intersex infant.

Z-Vax (Semifinalist Short) by Angie and Andrew Johnson-Schmit: In the midst of a zombie pandemic, a rookie medical receptionist faces off against a conspiracy-minded mother who refuses to admit her child is a zombie.

Friday October 22, 2021 1:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
The Austin Club, Robert Looney Suite 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Script Reading

1:15pm CDT

A Conversation with Derek Kolstad (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Speakers

Derek Kolstad

writer John Wick, John Wick Chapter 2, John Wick Chapter 3 - Parabellum, Nobody, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

Friday October 22, 2021 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

1:15pm CDT

A World For Julius

(Peru, 104 MIN)

Writer: Rossana Díaz Costa (written for the screen by), Alfredo Bryce Echenique (based on the novel by)
Director: Rossana Díaz Costa
Cast: Mayella Lloclla, Fiorella de Ferrari, Nacho Fresneda, Augusto Linares, Rodrigo Barba, Pamela Saco, Fernando Bacilio, Antonieta Pari

Julius is a high-class child who lives in Lima, Peru, in the 50's. He lives in a mansion with his aristocratic family and a lot of servants. He will lose the innocence little by little, when discovering and never understanding a world full of inequalities and injustices.

Friday October 22, 2021 1:15pm - 3:19pm CDT
Hideout Theatre 617 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

Film, Narrative Feature

1:30pm CDT

Adapting IP

When the coronavirus pandemic forced many physical productions to hit pause, it also invigorated other parts of the entertainment industry. Join us for a conversation about adapting an intellectual property, from researching and understanding the framework within which you are working, to creating something fresh and original within that established world. Industry creatives will discuss what writers look for in IP, what producers look for when hiring writers, and the unique challenges and benefits involved.

This panel is presented by Rooster Teeth.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Hannah McCarthy

Moderator; Senior Director of Programming & Development - Rooster Teeth Productions

Hannah McCarthy is the Senior Director of Programming & Development for Rooster Teeth Productions in Austin, TX. She oversees a robust slate of content that spans unscripted live action, podcasts, scripted animation, and beyond. Working in development through post-production on projects... Read More →

Speakers

Stephen Christy

producer, The Empty Man; executive producer Just Beyond; President, BOOM! Studios

Stephen Christy is the President of Development of BOOM! Studios, controlling the 3rd largest library of comic book IP outside of Marvel and DC. He most recently produced the supernatural thriller The Empty Man for 20th Century Studios and Executive Produced Just Beyond for Disney... Read More →

Evan Narcisse

staff writer gen:Lock, season 2; narrative design consultant Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Marvel's Avengers, Redfall

Evan Narcisse is a writer and consultant who works in video games, comic books, and TV, often focusing on the intersection of blackness and pop culture. He was a journalist and critic for many years, having previously written for The Atlantic, Time Magazine, Kotaku, io9, and The New... Read More →

Ryan P. Hall

Head, Rooster Teeth Studios; executive producer Blood Fest, Lazer Team 2, Shark Week: Immersion, gen:LOCK

Friday October 22, 2021 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:30pm CDT

How to Market Yourself

In an increasingly connected world, the opportunities to market your own work are endless. Whether it be taking a meeting with a mutual friend, connecting with fellow screenwriters online, or sharing your work on social media, there are many ways for you to advocate for your own work. Join us as we explore different ways to market yourself off the page and master the intimidating act of networking.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Fred Strype

moderator; AFF Screenwriting Award-Winner; producer Martin Eden; Professor Filmmaking, Screenwriting & Moving Image Arts Program, Sarah Lawrence College

Speakers

Zadoc Angell

Co-President, Echo Lake Entertainment

Zadoc Angell has worked at Echo Lake for eight years, and is the Co-President of the management division. He began his career as a TV Literary Agent at Paradigm, becoming a manager when he teamed up with Dave Brown at Artist International. The pair brought their literary team to Echo... Read More →

Rebecca Windsor

Head, Warner Bros. Television Workshop

Friday October 22, 2021 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Historic Sanctuary 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:30pm CDT

Indie Film Track: Assembling Your Team

Have you sat on a set and watched the 30 or so people in the organized chaos and thought "how did someone find all these creative and passionate people?" A film can only be as good as the people behind the scenes. This panel is all about assembling your team to start the journey of creating a film. Learn how to get others to support your idea, and to be excited to make your idea come to life. Grab your pencil and paper and head on over for a panel you don't want to miss.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.

Moderators

Brian Gannon

Moderator

Brian Gannon has been with the Austin Film Commission for nine years and been the Commissioner for the past six years. At the Austin Film Commission, Brian works to bring film, television and commercial production to Austin and assisting projects filming locally.

Speakers

1:30pm CDT

Pitching Like a Pro

You may have written a masterful script, but if you can't successfully pitch it in the room, your project 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 for entry.

Moderators

Trey Selman

Moderator

Speakers

Dailyn Rodriguez

co-showrunner/executive producer Queen of the South, Ugly Betty, Lie to Me, The Glades

Lorien McKenna

co-host The Screenwriting Life; writer/showrunner

Lorien McKenna is currently the Showrunner for a preschool show with YouTube Kids and has an adult animation show in development with Mindshow/Viacom. She's written for and developed with studios and streamers including Hulu, NBC, Disney, and Netflix.A former Story Manager at Pixar... Read More →

Kevin Hamedani

writer Darius the Great Is Not Okay, Infidel; writer/producer/showrunner Tether, writer/showrunner Stephen King's N.; writer/director Saviors, Zombies of Mas

Friday October 22, 2021 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:30pm CDT

So, You're Out of Touch - Writing Young Characters

Reconnecting with your younger self is not an easy feat, nor is writing a character that grew up in a completely different world than you. Capturing the voice of today's youth can be even more challenging as generational differences— like new technologies, lifestyles, cultures, and slang — build walls between us. Hear from distinguished screenwriters with experience writing contemporary children, teens, and young adults.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Harrison Glaser

former Film Competition Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

Lorna Clarke Osunsanmi

writer/producer Hemlock Grove, The Path, All American, Shaka: King of the Zulus; author Becoming Bold

Before moving to Los Angeles, Lorna graduated Magna Cum Laude earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a pre-law minor from Texas Woman's University.Lorna has since had a successful 16-year career working in television starting with a sci-fi show called DAYBREAK that aired... Read More →

Tripper Clancy

writer Stuber, I Am Not Okay With This, Die Hart

Tripper is a screenwriter who dabbles in tv and film, comedy and drama. He’s written projects with varying degrees of difficulty for every major studio as well as a couple of studios abroad. His credits include STUBER for 20th Century Fox, I AM NOT OKAY WITH THIS for Netflix, and... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

1:30pm CDT

Austin Pitch #5

It’s the 19th Annual Austin Film Festival Pitch Competition! This unique event allows contestants 90 seconds to pitch their best ideas to a panel of judges made up of producers, managers, and screenwriters in a constructive and friendly environment. Give your best pitch in 90 seconds and secure your spot in the finals at the Pitch Finale Party on Saturday night.

All Pitch Sessions require an advance sign-up and are held at St. David’s Episcopal Church in the Vestry Conference Room, located at 301 E 8th Street.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Speakers

Alvaro Rodriguez

writer American Rust, Florida Man; executive producer/co-creator Seis Manos; screenwriter Machete, Last Rampage

Jason Neulander

writer/director The Intergalactic Nemesis, Buttercup, Hit & Run, Fugitive Dreams

Jason Neulander received his BA and MA in theater from Brown University and is an award-winning theatre artist, filmmaker, and producer based in Austin, Texas. He founded and was the artistic director of Austin’s premiere producer of new plays Salvage Vanguard Theater from 1994... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Vestry Conference Room 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Pitch

1:30pm CDT

Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Scott Beck

writer A Quiet Place, writer/director 65, Haunt

Bryan Woods

writer A Quiet Place, writer/director 65, Haunt

Julia Glausi

Media Finance Agent, CAA

Julia Glausi is an Agent in the Media Finance department at leading entertainment agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA). She works in the Los Angeles office.Glausi began her career at Samuel Goldwyn Films in 2013. She then worked as an Executive Assistant at Zero Gravity Management... Read More →

Todd Ireland

writer Sunny, Continuum

Todd Ireland is an Indigenous (Métis) screenwriter.He is currently the executive vice president of Enderby Entertainment Canada where he helps oversee development and production. He is a proud member of the Writers Guild of Canada Diversity and Inclusion Committee and serves on the... Read More →

Ansley Martinez

Creative Executive, Diversity Hire Ltd.

Friday October 22, 2021 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Crail Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Roundtable

1:30pm CDT

Young Filmmakers Program: Roundtable

The Young Filmmakers Program Roundtable offers students the opportunity to meet and learn from selected shorts filmmakers in a casual setting among a small group of peers. Students are encouraged to ask specific questions about the creative and business aspects of filmmaking.

This session is open for participants in the Young Filmmakers Program only and requires advance sign up through the Young Filmmakers Program Department.

Friday October 22, 2021 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Sumners Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Young Filmmakers Program

2:15pm CDT

Page One (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Speakers

Alvaro Rodriguez

writer American Rust, Florida Man; executive producer/co-creator Seis Manos; screenwriter Machete, Last Rampage

Matt Cook

writer/co-producer Triple Nine, By Way of Helena; co-writer Patriots Day

Friday October 22, 2021 2:15pm - 3:30pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

3:00pm CDT

A Conversation with Glen Mazzara (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Join us for an in-depth conversation with writer/creator/showrunner Glen Mazzara. In this panel, we'll dive into Mazzara's journey through television, from his days working on classics like The Walking Dead and The Shield, to his work creating Damien. Hear about the ins and outs of the industry, and how having multiple roles in the television industry has developed Mazzara as a versatile writer.

Must have an AFF Producers or Virtual Badge for entry.

Speakers

Glen Mazzara

Creator/showrunner Damien, Showrunner The Walking Dead, Executive Producer The Shield

Friday October 22, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

3:15pm CDT

A Conversation with Scott Frank: The 2021 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting

Oscar nominee and acclaimed writer of films such as Out of Sight, Logan, and Minority Report, Scott Frank is our 2021 Bill Wittliff Awardee for Screenwriting. Join us as we sit down with Frank and discuss his career including his most recent project, The Queen's Gambit, which took the world by storm when it hit Netflix in 2020.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

David Koepp

writer Jurassic Park, Spider-Man, War of the Worlds; writer/director Stir of Echoes, Ghost Town, You Should Have Left

David Koepp has written or co-written the screenplays for more than thirty films, including Apartment Zero (1989), Bad Influence (1990), Death Becomes Her (1992), Carlito’s Way (1993), Jurassic Park (1993), The Paper (1994), Mission: Impossible (1996), The Lost World: Jurassic Park... Read More →

Speakers

Scott Frank

2021 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting

Scott Frank’s screenplays include Little Man Tate, Dead Again, Malice, Heaven’s Prisoners, Get Shorty, Out of Sight, Minority Report, The Interpreter, The Lookout (also directed), Marley & Me, The Wolverine, Walk Among the Tombstones (also directed), Logan, the Netflix limited... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
The Austin Club, Medallion Room 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:15pm CDT

Make It or Break It: Pilots

It's time to get started! For television, the pilot episode is a make-or-break moment. It can set the tone for a great show or send you back to the drawing board. Join this panel for tips on writing a pilot that'll set up your storyline, introduce compelling characters, and keep viewers hooked.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Paul Alvarado-Dykstra

writer/producer/moderator

Writer/producer Paul Alvarado-Dykstra co-founded Fantastic Fest, the largest genre film festival in the US. He is currently developing several film and television projects such as MadScrap, an animated “junkpunk” adventure series for Qwaxza that he represented at Banff and Kidscreen... Read More →

Speakers

Javier "Javi" Grillo-Marxuach

writer/producer Lost, The Dark Crystal, Cowboy Bebop; creator The Middleman

Felischa Marye

creator/writer/producer/showrunner Bigger; writer 13 Reasons Why

Leigh Dana Jackson

writer/co-executive producer Foundation, Raising Dion; writer 24: Legacy, Sleepy Hollow

Leigh Dana Jackson is the creator and Executive Producer of the upcoming FX series The Spook Who Sat by the Door, based on the novel by Sam Greenlee. He is also Co-Executive Producer of the Apple TV+ series Foundation and the Netflix series Raising Dion. In addition, he is adapting... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:15pm CDT

On Writing: Comedy

Laughing at jokes is easy; writing those jokes is a lot harder. 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 our panelists for a discussion on how to get audiences into seats, then laugh right out of them.

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Mike Gauyo

Founder, Black Boy Writes & Black Girl Writes Mentorship Initiative; story editor Insecure; executive story editor Ginny and Georgia

Mike Gauyo was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and at 4- years-old moved with his parents to Boston, Massachusetts - - Don't ask about the legalities of their entry. They still won't tell him -- Mike then spent a good part of his adolescence hopping between schools, from all Black... Read More →

Jill Chamberlain

author, The Nutshell Technique: Crack the Secret of Successful Screenwriting

Michael Fry

writer/co-creator Over The Hedge; writer/illustrator How To Be A Supervillain, Ghosted; co-writer/illustrator The Naughty List, Odd Squad

Michael Fry is an author/illustrator/screenwriter. He is the co-creator/writer of the syndicated comic strip Over the Hedge that inspired the 2006 DreamWorks Animation feature animated film (the most successful film ever made from a comic strip). He is also the creator of three additional... Read More →

Susan O'Connor

story consultant Batman (Telltale), Dishonored 2, BioShock 2; lead writer Star Wars 1313, Far Cry 2; writer Tomb Raider (Crystal Dynamics), BioShock; Interactive-Story Consultant, Netflix

Ashley Miller

creator/ep DOTA: Dragon’s Blood; writer X-Men: First Class, Thor; co-host The 4:30 Movie, Cartoon Barroom

Friday October 22, 2021 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Crail Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Roundtable

3:15pm CDT

Semifinalists and AFF Filmmaker Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film and Television

Speakers

VJ Boyd

writer/producer S.W.A.T., Justified

Tai Duncan

producer The Marksman, Cop Shop, How It Ends, Honest Thief, The Air I Breathe

Dan Hernandez

writer Pokémon Detective Pikachu, Addams Family 2; Co-Showrunner Koala Man

Eric Williams

Founding Partner/Literary Manager, Zero Gravity Management

Eric began his career at Paradigm and then moved to Writers & Artists Agency as a Literary Agent. He transitioned to management in 2004, where he began growing the management division of Zero Gravity. What he began as a two-person shop has grown to over 35 employees, making Zero Gravity... Read More →

Steven Walters

creator/head writer 1865: the Audio Drama; executive producer Business Movers: owner Ritual Productions

Steven Walters is an award-winning writer, director, actor and producer. He’s an emeritus company member of the Tony-award-winning Dallas Theater Center and co-founder of Second Thought Theatre in Dallas, Texas. As an actor, Steven is best known for his role on NBC's Friday Night... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Sumners Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Script Competition Session

3:15pm CDT

Young Filmmakers Program: Pitch

This session is for the Young Filmmakers Program only.

The student pitch sessions give high school students the opportunity to pitch their best ideas to industry professionals and receive feedback in an encouraging setting, while learning more about the art of the pitch.

Speakers

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

Cindy McCreery

writer The Honey Girls, Something in the Water, Haven, Free Willy: Escape from Pirate's Cove; Disney Feature Fellow, Associate Professor/Screenwriting Area Head, UT Austin

Friday October 22, 2021 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Young Filmmakers Program

3:15pm CDT

Indie Film Track: From Script to Screen

All movie magic starts with a first draft and evolves into a screenplay fit for the silver screen. But, how do you get your written word to translate to the big screen? Each step of the filmmaking process adds a layer of interpretation. Come and learn how to navigate the complex process of visualizing abstract emotions into visuals and dialogue, and how to combine them into story beats that contribute to the larger story. Translating the written word into a visual story can seem scary, but don't worry, we've got your back!

Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge to attend.

Moderators

Brian Gannon

Moderator

Speakers

Brett Wagner

writer/director The Big Bend

Brett Wagner is a writer and director of films including CHIEF, CARE, FIVE YEARS, and the upcoming feature film THE BIG BEND. His films have screened in competition at festivals such as Sundance, Palm Springs, Woodstock, Napa, Aspen, Newport, BAM Cinemafest, Cinequest, and dozens... Read More →

Fabio Frey

Unsilenced

WORLD PREMIERE

(Canada,108 MIN)

Writer/Director: Leon Lee
Cast: Sam Trammell, Anastasia Lin, Wu Yi-Ting, Wang Tzu-Chiang

When the Chinese Communist Party launches a brutal crackdown on its citizens, a team of innocent students risk everything to expose the deadly propaganda and fight for freedom.

Sponsors

Whataburger

Friday October 22, 2021 4:15pm - 6:08pm CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Short Film, Narrative Student Short

4:15pm CDT

Man Seeking Man

TRAILER

Man Seeking Man

(USA, 12 MIN)

Writer: Michael Lorusso
Director: Travis White

A man seeks another for a discreet favor.

Friday October 22, 2021 4:15pm - 6:08pm CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Short Film, Narrative Short

4:15pm CDT

Moondogs

Moondogs

(USA, 18 MIN)

Writer/Director: Katharine Broyles

Three teenage girls hit the road to self-discovery after the realization that one of them is pregnant.

Friday October 22, 2021 4:15pm - 6:08pm CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Short Film, Narrative Short

4:45pm CDT

So, You're Out of Touch - Writing Young Characters (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Speakers

Lorna Clarke Osunsanmi

writer/producer Hemlock Grove, The Path, All American, Shaka: King of the Zulus; author Becoming Bold

Tripper Clancy

writer Stuber, I Am Not Okay With This, Die Hart

Friday October 22, 2021 4:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

4:45pm CDT

Film Texas BBQ Supper

Producers Badges are invited to kick off the weekend, chat and chow down at one of the most highly anticipated events of the Festival each year. Join us at Pease Park and savor Green Mesquite BBQ, washed down with a cold beverage of choice.
Must have an AFF Producers Badge for entry. All parties are 21 and up.
Shuttle service will be provided to the BBQ. More information to be provided closer to the event.

Sponsors

Bogle Vineyards

Real Ale Brewing Company

Friday October 22, 2021 4:45pm - 6:45pm CDT
Pease Park 1100 Kingsbury St., Austin, TX 78703

Party

5:00pm CDT

Final Draft 12 Demo on Zoom

This training will give new and advanced users an introduction to the many features in Final Draft 12, the latest version of the industry standard screenwriting software.

Discover the myriad new features Final Draft 12 has to offer including advanced Story Building Tools, PDF Import, Focus Mode and Track Changes.

If you're already using Final Draft 12 our expert will help answer your questions along the way.

To join:

https://castandcrewmeetings.zoom.us/j/93212276359?pwd=S2VsRVlybHJ4aWRkdVlLZkl5QWZKZz09

Sponsors

Final Draft

Friday October 22, 2021 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
TBD

Conference

5:00pm CDT

Imad's Childhood

(Sweden, 77 MIN)

Writer/Director: Zahavi Sanjavi

Imad is a five-year-old Yazidi child who is released from ISIS captivity after two and a half years. During this time, ISIS has brainwashed Imad and he considers himself one of the ISIS fighters. His eyes still emanate innocence, but he shows no other feelings than hatred for his mother and resentment towards those around him. Will Imad's family be able to help him overcome his trauma and become again the child he once was?

Friday October 22, 2021 5:00pm - 6:37pm CDT
Hideout Theatre 617 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

Film, Documentary Feature

5:00pm CDT

Imad's Childhood (Virtual Screening)

Friday October 22, 2021 5:00pm - 6:37pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Documentary Feature

5:30pm CDT

Second Rounders and Above Live Virtual Panel: Pitch Prep with Pamela Ribon

The only thing that sucks worse than pitching is preparing your pitch. Get out of your head and start being yourself with someone who will give you some tips, tricks, and examples to get you thinking of pitching as something you (almost) look forward to. See real world examples of adapting pitch content for different situations -- in person, virtual -- even pdf.

This panel is for Second Rounders and Above. Must have an AFF Producers or Virtual Badge for entry.

Speakers

Pamela Ribon

Virtual Panelist

Pamela Ribon (Moana, Ralph Breaks the Internet, Bears) is currently adapting her original comic book series SLAM! as an animated half-hour with Rooster Teeth and Minnow Mountain for HBO Max. She is also adapting her comedic memoir NOTES TO BOYS (AND OTHER THINGS I SHOULDN’T SHARE... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 5:30pm - 6:45pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

6:30pm CDT

A Conversation with Scott Frank: The 2021 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Speakers

Scott Frank

2021 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting

Friday October 22, 2021 6:30pm - 7:45pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

6:30pm CDT

The Big Bend

WORLD PREMIERE

(USA, 100 MIN)

Writer/Director: Brett Wagner
Cast: Jason Butler Harner, Virginia Kull, David Sullivan, Erica Ash

Two families, the Prices and the Talbotts, meet for a long overdue reunion in the remote West Texas desert — where events quickly don’t go as planned. Harboring secrets and facing private crises, they explore one of the wildest places in America, testing the boundaries of marriage, friendship, and parenthood, and doing their best to survive the experience.

Friday October 22, 2021 6:30pm - 8:30pm CDT
Galaxy Highland - Screen 5 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752

Film, Narrative Feature

6:45pm CDT

On Writing/Directing Pig: A Conversation with Michael Sarnoski (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Speakers

Michael Sarnoski

writer/director Pig

Friday October 22, 2021 6:45pm - 8:00pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

7:00pm CDT

Hustle & Flow (2005)

(USA, 114 min)

Writer/Director: Craig Brewer
Cast: Terrence Howard, Anthony Anderson, Taryn Manning, Taraji P. Henson, D.J. Qualls

Terrence Howard gives a star-making performance in this gritty and moving tale of redemption from writer-director Craig Brewer. Howard portrays a Memphis pimp and pusher who dreams of leaving the mean streets behind and becoming a rapper.

PARAMOUNT AND STATE THEATRE BAG POLICY*
NOT permitted:
• No large bags over 14 x 12 x 6 in size
• No food or beverage of any kind
• No weapons of any shape or size (including
firearms, explosives, pocket knives, etc.)
• No cameras or recorders of any kind
ALLOWED but subject to inspection:
• Bags smaller than 14 x 12 x 6
• Diaper bags (when child is present)
• Medically necessary items (including breast
pumps)
• Jackets and coats

Speakers

Stephanie Allain

2021 Recipient of the Polly Platt Award for Producing

STEPHANIE ALLAIN is one of the most prolific African American producers working today. Her award-winning films by writer-directors of color make headlines, launch careers and shape the cultural landscape. Critical acclaim includes Oscars, Independent Spirit Awards, NAACP Image Awards... Read More →

Craig Brewer

writer/director Hustle & Flow, Black Snake Moan, Footloose (2011); director Coming 2 America, Dolemite Is My Name

CRAIG BREWER (Director/Producer) began his career as a filmmaker in Memphis, Tennessee. While working at Barnes & Noble, he learned camera and editing techniques from books he purchased with his employee discount. In 2000, he made his first feature film, THE POOR & HUNGRY, which... Read More →

Friday October 22, 2021 7:00pm - 9:34pm CDT
State Theatre

Film, Retrospective

7:15pm CDT

The Creative Career: Practical Tips for Starting Out presented by The Writers Guild of America West (Live Virtual Panel)

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 Virtual Badge for entry.

Moderators

Javier "Javi" Grillo-Marxuach

writer/producer Lost, The Dark Crystal, Cowboy Bebop; creator The Middleman

Speakers

Gennifer Hutchison

Virtual Panelist

Gennifer Hutchison grew up an Air Force brat, moving with her family every few years. A lifelong film and television fan, Hutchison moved to Los Angeles shortly after graduating from The University of San Francisco. She landed a PA job on The X-Files, later moving her way up to an... Read More →

Sera Gamble

Virtual Panelist

Sera Gamble is the creator, with Greg Berlanti, of YOU (Netflix), based on Caroline Kepnes’s acclaimed novel of the same name. The series stars Penn Badgley and Victoria Pedretti. Upon its worldwide debut in December 2018, YOU was seen by an estimated 40 million viewers. Season... Read More →

Kemp Powers

Virtual Panelist

Kemp Powers began at Pixar Animation Studios in August 2018. Powers was most recently the co-director and writer on the Academy Award® winning feature film “Soul” with director Pete Docter and producer Dana Murray, which is now streaming on Disney+.Powers grew up in Brooklyn... Read More →

Sponsors

Writers Guild of America West

Friday October 22, 2021 7:15pm - 8:30pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

7:15pm CDT

My Dead Dad

TRAILER

(USA, 91 MIN)

Writers: Pedro Correa, Fabio Frey
Director: Fabio Frey
Cast: Raymond Cruz, Steven Bauer, Simon Rex, Chris Pontius, Courtney Dietz, Pedro Correa

A young burnout discovers his estranged father is dead and has left him an apartment complex.

Friday October 22, 2021 7:15pm - 9:08pm CDT
Galaxy Highland - Screen 6 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752

Film, Narrative Feature

7:15pm CDT

My Dead Dad (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

Friday October 22, 2021 7:15pm - 9:08pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Feature

7:15pm CDT

Down With The King - SPOTLIGHT FILM

(USA, 100 min)

writer: Xabi Molia, Diego Ongaro
director: Diego Ongaro

Cast: Freddie Gibbs, Bob Tarasuk, Jamie Neumann, David Krumholtz, Sharon Washington
Money Merc, a famous rapper disillusioned with the music industry and the pressures of being a celebrity, leaves the city and his career behind to find himself in a small-town farming community.

PARAMOUNT AND STATE THEATRE BAG POLICY*

We have a Clear Bag Policy to minimize contact that a bag search would require.
Clear bags should not exceed 14″ x 12″ x 6″ in size.
Small, non-clear clutch bags will be allowed, and should not exceed 4.5” x 6.5” in size.

Friday October 22, 2021 7:15pm - 9:15pm CDT
Paramount Theatre

Film, Marquee

7:15pm CDT

Holidays at all Costs

TRAILER

(France, 105 MIN)

Writer/ Director: Stevan Lee Mraovitch

It has been seven years since Frederic has taken his family away from Paris for a summer vacation. But this year, he is determined to offer them an unforgettable vacation at all costs.

Friday October 22, 2021 7:15pm - 9:17pm CDT
Galaxy Highland - Screen 4 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752

Film, Comedy Vanguard

7:15pm CDT

Holidays at all Costs (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

Friday October 22, 2021 7:15pm - 9:17pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Comedy Vanguard

7:30pm CDT

Shorts Program 4: Remain Calm

Stick Up

(USA, 12 MIN)

Writers: Garrett Davis, Tori Hartley
Director: Chris Oz McIntosh

A young woman gets more than she bargained for when she stops at a gas station on her way out of town to score some quick change.

click, click, BOOM!

(USA, 6 MIN)

Writer/Director: Tomson Tee

A bougie woman learns her head will explode in 3 days.

Away From It All

(USA, 6 MIN)

Writer/ Director: Mason Thorne

Held hostage by her insurance company’s automated call tree, Shannon heads to the beach in a futile attempt to get away from it all.

Paco

(USA, 6 MIN)

Writer/Director: Zac Cooper

A man copes with his loneliness by befriending a piñata.

Numb

(UK, 11 MIN)

Writer: Ali Hughes
Director: Natasha Jatania

A father and son take the time to spread the ashes of the mother, and after the unemotional execution they begin to talk about spontaneity and the father's missed opportunities.

The Surrealists

(USA, 15 MIN)

Writer/Director: Trevor Williams

The story of Salvador Dalí and the surrealist movement if it happened today on social media.

The Acolyte

(USA,14 MIN)

Writer/Director: Sammy James, Jr.

A doomsday cult clashes with an idealistic new recruit.

Samu

(USA, 8 MIN)

Writer/Director: Brett Cramer

Jen really needs to make a sale.

Liza Anonymous

(USA, 12 MIN)

Writer: Leah McKendrick
Director: Aubrey Smyth

A lonely millennial addicted to support groups disguises herself in different personas while trying to fit in, leading her on a theatrical journey which proves that pretending to be someone you’re not doesn’t get you any closer to feeling seen.

Friday October 22, 2021 7:30pm - 9:20pm CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Short Film, Narrative Short

7:30pm CDT

Numb

Numb

(UK, 11 MIN)

Writer: Ali Hughes
Director: Natasha Jatania

A father and son take the time to spread the ashes of the mother, and after the unemotional execution they begin to talk about spontaneity and the father's missed opportunities.

Sponsors

Whataburger

Friday October 22, 2021 7:30pm - 9:20pm CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Short Film, Narrative Short

7:30pm CDT

Paco

TRAILER

Paco

(USA, 6 MIN)

Writer/Director: Zac Cooper

A man copes with his loneliness by befriending a piñata.

Sponsors

Whataburger

Friday October 22, 2021 7:30pm - 9:20pm CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Short Film, Narrative Short

writer You’re The Worst, Undone, Mrs. America; writer/supervising producer Dave; Executive Producer, Diversity Hire, Ltd.

Tripper Clancy

writer Stuber, I Am Not Okay With This, Die Hart

Friday October 22, 2021 8:30pm - 9:45pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

9:00pm CDT

A Night of Ghost Stories presented by Phantom Wines

Join Us if you dare for a night of ghost stories at the historically haunted Driskill Hotel. Submit your chilling tales early for the chance to share your paranormal story live. If ghostly spirits have yet to inspire you, attend to hear other’s spooky stories while enjoying Phantom Wines. At the end of the evening, one winner will be selected to receive a $500 Hotels.com gift card! So dust off those cobwebs and start prepping a paranormal pitch that’s certain to kill!

Sponsors

Bogle Vineyards

Phantom Wines

Friday October 22, 2021 9:00pm - 10:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:45pm CDT

Don't Go to School Tomorrow

TRAILER

10:45pm CDT

CRAM (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45pm - 11:49pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Dark Matters

10:45pm CDT

The One You're With

(USA, 88 MIN)

Writer/director: C. Bailey Werner
Cast: C. Bailey Werner, Koko Marshall, Lee Eddy, Colton Dunn, Byron Brown

A down-and-out young woman who's moved to Austin to start her life over ends up on a "swipe right" date with a neurotic guy looking for long-term love. After a one night stand the woman attempts to leave only to find that the world has shifted into a state of emergency forcing them to stay indoors for three weeks. The forced coupling turns into a battle of the sexes as they're forced to face their own relationship troubles and avoid killing one another in the process. "The One You're With" is a look at modern love in the time of insanity and the levity that's possible despite the world crumbling around us.

*In Attendance : Jon Michael Simpson, Jeff McQuitty, Kasey Givens and Chad Werner

PARAMOUNT AND STATE THEATRE BAG POLICY*

We have a Clear Bag Policy to minimize contact that a bag search would require.
Clear bags should not exceed 14″ x 12″ x 6″ in size.
Small, non-clear clutch bags will be allowed, and should not exceed 4.5” x 6.5” in size.

Friday October 22, 2021 10:45pm - Saturday October 23, 2021 12:33am CDT
Paramount Theatre

Film, Marquee

11:00pm CDT

Filmmakers Happy Hour presented by Final Draft

The Filmmakers Happy Hour is another one of the Festival's great late-night parties and provides filmmakers and registrants alike the opportunity to discuss another full day of panels and the Friday evening films. Swap your Saturday schedule while enjoying a bevy of beverages!
Must have an AFF Producers Badge for entry. All parties are 21 and up.

Sponsors

Final Draft

Oskar Blues Brewery

Friday October 22, 2021 11:00pm - Saturday October 23, 2021 1:00am CDT
SKYBOX on 6th 501 W 6th St 4th Floor, Austin, TX 78701

Party

9:00am CDT

A Conversation with Chase Palmer

Join us for a conversation with writer, director, producer, and AFF Film and Screenplay award-winner Chase Palmer. Known for IT: Chapter 1, and his directorial debut Naked Singularity, hear from Palmer about his experience at AFF, writing in the feature space, and what it's like working in multiple roles on projects.

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

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Executive Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

Chase Palmer

co-writer IT: Chapter 1; writer/director Naked Singularity

Chase Palmer is a New York-based writer/director. His first feature as writer-director, NAKED SINGULARITY, hits theaters in 2021. Adapted from the Pen Prize Winning novel A Naked Singularity By Sergio De La Pava, it stars John Boyega, Olivia Cooke, Bill Skarsgard, and Ed Skrein. As... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

A Conversation with David Koepp

Join us for a conversation with David Koepp, the writer behind such crowd-pleasers as Jurassic Park, Mission: Impossible, Spider-Man, and Ghost Town, to name a few! Hear how he’s crafted some of cinema’s most classic films and moments while jumping between genres and working on adaptations.

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

Moderators

Harrison Glaser

former Film Competition Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

David Koepp

writer Jurassic Park, Spider-Man, War of the Worlds; writer/director Stir of Echoes, Ghost Town, You Should Have Left

Saturday October 23, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

First Three Pages, Live!

Saturday October 23, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Indie Film Track: From Short to Feature

Remember that scene in The Iron Giant when Hogarth discovered the Giant in the forest? Since attaining his degree in Radio-Television-Film from The University of Texas, he has mainly worked as an editor on feature films such as On The Line, Monstrum, and Apollo 10 ½. He has also worked on productions such as Heist: The Musical which was part of the Frank Denius Showcase partnered with SXSW.

Since interning at Austin Film Festival, he has held the position of Shorts Programmer, and now Film Competition Director where he has been able to grow his passion of finding passionate stories and new voices in film. His first cycle as Film Competition Director has been full of excitement as he programmed a slate of over 40 feature films and 100 short films. Tim spends his spare time on a bike, swimming in Barton Springs, or sleeping in the hammock on his patio with his cat.

Moderators

Tim Gray

Film Competitions Director, Austin Film Festival

Speakers

Anna Baumgarten

writer/director Disfluency

Jenny Waldo

writer/director Acid Test

Saturday October 23, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am 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.

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

Moderators

Bill True

writer Runaway, Hope Springs, Crazy Evil Genius; Head of Dramatic Writing, Scottsdale School of Film+Theatre

Speakers

Kelsi Fleming

Creative Executive, Josephson Entertainment

Christian Bersani

Creative Executive, Josephson Entertainment

Spencer Cobb

Coordinator, Josephson Entertainment

Saturday October 23, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Playwriting Track: Stage vs. Screen

Working as a playwright can enhance your abilities as a screenwriter and even the other way around! Learning the necessities of the stage brings big advantages to the screen; like how to write compelling dialogue, the need for strong pacing, and how to utilize blocking more effectively. Come hear from panelists who have experience writing for both the stage and the screen and learn what one can teach you about the other.

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

Moderators

Kirk Lynn

Moderator

Kirk Lynn is a novelist, playwright and screenwriter living in Austin, Texas with his wife, the poet Carrie Fountain, and their children. Lynn is one of five artistic directors of the Rude Mechs theatre collective and head of the playwriting area in the Department of Theatre and Dance... Read More →

Speakers

Jihan Crowther

writer/producer The Underground Railroad, The Man in the High Castle, Daisy Jones & The Six

Lorien McKenna

co-host The Screenwriting Life; writer/showrunner

Saturday October 23, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Omni Hotel, Longhorn Room (3rd floor) 700 San Jacinto, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Podcast Track: Audio Fiction 101

How do you tell a story when the visual component is completely erased? Writing audio fiction isn't without its challenges, but our seasoned panelists are here to help. Join them as they discuss how to best utilize the audio format and what writing for audio fiction can teach screenwriters and vice versa!

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

Speakers

James Kim

creator MOONFACE; co-creator Vermont Ave.; producer Gimlet, Radiotopia, APM, Deadly Manners

James Kim is a Los Angeles based podcast creator. This year he co-created the audio fiction piece, Vermont Ave., which won Tribeca Festival's inaugural "Best Fiction Podcast" award. Previously, he worked on Radiotopia's Strangers, Marketplace, Deadly Manners, and Gimlet Media. He... Read More →

Alexandra E. Hartman

freelance writer Cowboy Bebop; writer Ghost Tape

Saturday October 23, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
The Omni Hotel, Ste. 700 (7th floor) 700 San Jacinto, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

9:00am CDT

Austin Pitch #7

It’s the 19th Annual Austin Film Festival Pitch Competition! This unique event allows contestants 90 seconds to pitch their best ideas to a panel of judges made up of producers, managers, and screenwriters in a constructive and friendly environment. Give your best pitch in 90 seconds and secure your spot in the finals at the Pitch Finale Party on Saturday night.

All Pitch Sessions require an advance sign-up and are held at St. David’s Episcopal Church in the Vestry Conference Room, located at 301 E 8th Street.

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

Speakers

Ashley Miller

creator/ep DOTA: Dragon’s Blood; writer X-Men: First Class, Thor; co-host The 4:30 Movie, Cartoon Barroom

Henry Jones

writer Jupiter's Legacy, Black Summer, Arcane

Saturday October 23, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Vestry Conference Room 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Pitch

9:00am CDT

Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Jason Lubin

Lit Manager/Producer, First Story Entertainment

Jason Lubin is a manager-producer and the principal at First Story Entertainment, which he founded in 2018. The lit management company represents a diverse roster of talented writers and directors with fresh voices in all genres for Film and TV. Jason also develops both feature film... Read More →

Lowell Blank

producer Holes, Addict Named Hal

Kevin Hamedani

writer Darius the Great Is Not Okay, Infidel; writer/producer/showrunner Tether, writer/showrunner Stephen King's N.; writer/director Saviors, Zombies of Mas

Michael Fry

writer/co-creator Over The Hedge; writer/illustrator How To Be A Supervillain, Ghosted; co-writer/illustrator The Naughty List, Odd Squad

Cam Cannon

writer/producer Zero Contact; writer/executive producer USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage; executive producer Give 'Em Hell Malone, Tokarev a/k/a Rage; development executive The Big Bang, Casino Jack

Saturday October 23, 2021 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Crail Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Roundtable

9:00am CDT

Script Library

Saturday October 23, 2021 9:00am - 5:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Club 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Script Reading

10:00am CDT

Script Reading: Uncertain, TX

Limited Capacity filling up

Join us for a live reading of the Semifinalist comedy pilot teleplay Uncertain, TX by Hayley Grgurich featuring local Austin actors bringing Competition scripts to life!

Logline: To prove herself as a reporter, an underestimated radio producer for NPR travels to an 11-person town in Texas to investigate a missing person's case. She arrives to find it's likely a murder—and she's not the only podcaster after the story.

Saturday October 23, 2021 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
The Austin Club, Robert Looney Suite 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Script Reading

10:45am CDT

A Conversation with the 2021 Awardees

Join this highly anticipated conversation with the 2021 awardees as they discuss their approaches to the art, craft, and business of storytelling throughout their film and television careers.

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

Moderators

Barbara Morgan

Executive Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

Channing Godfrey Peoples

2021 Recipient of the New Voice Award

Channing Godfrey Peoples is an emergent writer and director with a distinctive vision and an impactful voice. She made her feature directorial debut last year with the critically acclaimed drama MISS JUNETEENTH and has quickly become one of today’s most exciting rising filmmakers... Read More →

Scott Frank

2021 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting

Stephanie Allain

2021 Recipient of the Polly Platt Award for Producing

Michael Schur

2021 Recipient of the Outstanding Television Writer Award

Michael Schur created the critically acclaimed NBC comedy “The Good Place,” and co-created "Parks and Recreation," "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," and the Peacock series “Rutherford Falls." He is also an Executive Producer on HBOMax’s “Hacks” and Netflix’s "Master of None." Prior... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Deconstructing Script Construction

Join TV & feature writers for a breakdown of story elements, dramatic structure, and utilizing outlines to solidify your plot and invigorate your story.

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

Moderators

Trey Selman

Moderator

Speakers

Dailyn Rodriguez

co-showrunner/executive producer Queen of the South, Ugly Betty, Lie to Me, The Glades

Matt Cook

writer/co-producer Triple Nine, By Way of Helena; co-writer Patriots Day

Saturday October 23, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

I'll Do It Myself: Producing a Podcast

Podcasting is a great space to experiment and learn new things, all while getting projects out to an audience. Join our panelists who've been through the wringer and produced their own podcasts. They'll discuss the big picture of creating your own content, what they learned along the way, and pass on some great tips for those who want to get it done themselves!

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

Speakers

Tonia Ransom

creator/executive producer NIGHTLIGHT: The Black Horror Podcast

Tonia Ransom is the creator and executive producer of NIGHTLIGHT, a horror podcast featuring creepy tales written by Black writers. Tonia has been scaring people since the second grade, when she wrote her first story based on Michael Myers. She’s pretty sure her teacher was concerned... Read More →

James Kim

creator MOONFACE; co-creator Vermont Ave.; producer Gimlet, Radiotopia, APM, Deadly Manners

Saturday October 23, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
The Omni Hotel, Ste. 700 (7th floor) 700 San Jacinto, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

10:45am CDT

Indie Film Track: Episodic Storytelling

Everyone loves a good show, one that has us on the edge of our seats for every episode or has an unexpected twist we never saw coming. Join us for a panel on episodic storytelling with filmmakers screening Digital Series at this year's Festival. We'll discuss writing while keeping a unified story arc, expanding the characters' narratives over time, and developing unique stories every time.

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

Moderators

Barton Weiss

Moderator

Bart Weiss is an award-winning independent film and video producer, director, editor, and educator who has lived in Dallas since 1981. Mr. Weiss has taught film and video production at Texas A&M’s Visualization Lab, Southern Methodist University, the University of Texas at Austin... Read More →

Speakers

Alex DiBucci

writer/co-director Flux

Alex is a former boxer with a background in advertising. Now, she puts her few remaining brain cells towards a MFA in film at Vermont College of Fine Arts while working for an ad agency in New York City. Born in Pittsburgh, she completed her undergrad in Chicago and made Austin, Texas... Read More →

10:45am CDT

Working the Rewrite

Revisions are crucial for any successful script to undergo so it's better to embrace the process than fight it. Whether you're working on your fourth draft or your fortieth, this panel will teach you how to kill your darlings, differentiate between editing and revising, and actually take constructive criticism well. Bring your draft and a red pen and get ready to refresh your story!

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

Moderators

Pat Hazell

Michael Sarnoski

writer/director Pig

Saturday October 23, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Vestry Conference Room 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Pitch

10:45am CDT

Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Gayla Nethercott

Literary Agent/Manager

Taylor Streitz

writer/producer Stargirl

Meg LeFauve

writer Inside Out, The Good Dinosaur, Captain Marvel

Joe Forte

writer Firewall; director The Man Who Saved Ben-Hur

Joe Forte is the creator and writer of Firewall (2006) which stars Harrison Ford, Paul Bettany and Virginia Madsen and the director of the documentary The Man Who Saved Ben-Hur (2015) which premiered at the Hot Springs Film Festival and streams on Amazon. He is adapting the comic... Read More →

Dana M. Jackson

Manager, Echo Lake Entertainment

Saturday October 23, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Crail Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Roundtable

10:45am CDT

Second Rounders Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Lorien McKenna

co-host The Screenwriting Life; writer/showrunner

Matt Dy

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

Glen Mazzara

Creator/showrunner Damien, Showrunner The Walking Dead, Executive Producer The Shield

Stephen Christy

producer, The Empty Man; executive producer Just Beyond; President, BOOM! Studios

Owen Egerton

writer/director Blood Fest, Follow, Mercy Black

Owen Egerton is award-winning writer/director of the films Follow, Blood Fest and Blumhouse's Mercy Black. He's a Black List honored screenwriter and the author of several books including How Best to Avoid Dying, The Book of Harold The Illegitimate Son of God, and Hollow, which... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Sumners Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Script Competition Session

11:00am CDT

Creating a Creative Career - Austin Film Festival in Six Square

11 AM – 11:45 PMA discussion with pioneer creatives of color Chuck Hayward (writer, Dear White People) and Jameel Saleem (writer/co-executive producer, Bob’s Burgers), about their creative processes and navigating the industry.

Chuck Hayward
writer Wandavision, Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead, Dear White People, Flatbush Misdemeanors, Santa Inc.

Chuck Hayward is a renaissance man – in that he’s a man who’s stayed multiple times at Renaissance Hotels. But mostly he writes things. A lot. And sometimes he actually writes them well. And sometimes they’re even funny! Just ask his fellow writers on Netflix’s Dear White People, Disney+’s WandaVision, ABC’s Mixed-Ish, or Showtime’s Flatbush Misdemeanors. Or you can ask the directors and producers of the movies he’s written, Netflix’s Step Sisters, the indie film Fat Camp; and the upcoming remake of the 90’s cult classic, Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead. Chuck promises they’ll confirm it. You calling him a liar?!?!

Jameel Saleem
writer/co-executive producer Bob’s Burgers; writer/producer Disenchantment; writer South Park Digital

Jameel began his professional writing career with the 2012 nation-wide release of his indie film, EXIT STRATEGY.  After producing three indie feature films and a web series, Jameel set his sights on television. He wrote and produced a pilot for NBC Playground and soon after staffed on his first network show, ABC’S MANHATTAN LOVE STORY in 2014. Since then he’s worked on multiple TV projects. He’s currently a Co-Executive Producer and Writer on BOB’S BURGERS, Writer and Producer for Netflix’s DISENCHANTMENT and Writer for SOUTH PARK DIGITAL, and has several TV and film projects in development, including an animated film with his mentors South Park’s Matt Stone and Trey Parker.

Speakers

Chuck Hayward

writer Wandavision, Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead, Dear White People, Flatbush Misdemeanors, Santa Inc.

Chuck Hayward is a renaissance man – in that he’s a man who’s stayed multiple times at Renaissance Hotels. But mostly he writes things. A lot. And sometimes he actually writes them well. And sometimes they’re even funny! Just ask his fellow writers on Netflix’s Dear White... Read More →

Jameel Saleem

writer/co-executive producer Bob's Burgers; writer/producer Disenchantment; writer South Park Digital

Jameel began his professional writing career with the 2012 nation-wide release of his indie film, EXIT STRATEGY.  After producing three indie feature films and a web series, Jameel set his sights on television. He wrote and produced a pilot for NBC Playground and soon after staffed... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Vesper 3106 E 14th 1/2 St, Austin, TX 78702

Conference, Community Programming

11:00am CDT

Young Filmmakers Showcase

(TRT: 90 MIN)
Showcasing the best youth animated, documentary, and narrative films from around the world.

THE PUPPET (NARRATIVE, 2 MIN)
Writer/Director: Will Nordstrom
A strange puppet encounters an old laptop that influences him to make a decision.

LUCID (NARRATIVE, 5 MIN)
Writer/Director: Alyssa Young
A persistent teen utilizes her newfound ability to foresee the future through her dreams in an attempt to manipulate fate.

LITTLE BIG SHOT (DOCUMENTARY, 3 MINS)
Director: Henry Segal
A profile of a 5-year-old table tennis prodigy, Allen Mao, with expert commentary.

PANNING FOR GOLD (NARRATIVE, 7 MIN)
Writer: Rand Boivie
Tensions rise when four hungry prospectors finally uncover a gold nugget.

k. (NARRATIVE, 5 MIN)
Writer/Director: Sam Morgan
When teenager Brad seeks to end his long-distance relationship, he finds the split to be harder than anticipated.

THE SHOOTING AT RATTLER'S RIDGE (NARRATIVE, 10 MIN)
Writer/Director: Reed H. Sharp
A young filmmaker, Flicker, in the end of the cowboy age embarks on a job for the local sheriff. Flicker has to prove a case for him by shooting physical evidence of the perpetrator on his camera. The criminal, Moon Man, kills his partner and he tries survive his treacherous escape. Many dangerous obstacles lie ahead of him while he is stranded in the Wild West.

BEAR (NARRATIVE, 12 MIN)
Writer/Director: Matthew Connor Wheatley
A boy struggles to find his bear.

RODENT REDEMPTION (NARRATIVE, 2 MIN)
Writer/Director: Lucy Holden
This is an interview of a hamster who narrates the tale of how he tried to escape his cage. He has been planning his escape and dreams of a day when he will be free from his imprisonment.

ART, A POLLUTION SOLUTION (DOCUMENTARY, 5 MIN)
Writer/Director: Gabriella Goss
A glimpse into the inside world of artist Angela Pozzi, who works to raise awareness about the growing problem of ocean plastic through her nonprofit Washed Ashore.

LIFE WITHOUT YOU (NARRATIVE, 3 MIN)
Writer/Director: Chase Bolnick
A loving husband is forced to make a difficult decision at the start of the apocalypse.

PROJECT DECIUS (NARRATIVE, 7 MIN)
Writer/Director: Aidan Guerrero
Survivors of a deadly virus work to defy nature with a machine that will turn back the clock on humanity’s end.

JAQUES (NARRATIVE, 9 MIN)
Writer/Director: Gabriel Zakaib
Mockumentary focusing on the creative process of fictional photographer, Jaques Celian, and how his process affects those around him.

THE WALTZ OF TIME (NARRATIVE, 9 MIN)
Writer/Director: Mario Martínez Sáenz
An old man escapes from the nursing home and appears lost in the middle of the pasture. Near a tree, he begins to waltz to the rhythm of his memories.

Saturday October 23, 2021 11:00am - 12:30pm CDT
Galaxy Highland - Screen 5 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752

Young Filmmakers Program, Shorts Program

11:00am CDT

Austin Film Festival in Six Square

AFF IN SIX SQUAREAFF’s FREE Community Festival Programming within the Six Square Cultural DistrictSaturday, October 23rd, 11 AM – 5 PM
Vesper Austin (3106 E 14th 1/2 St., Austin, TX 78702)

Both in partnership with the Historic Six Square Cultural District and as part of Austin Film Festival’s recently launched Uplifting Storytellers Initiative, AFF presents a full day of FREE Festival programming aimed at helping emerging creatives get a foot in the Entertainment Industry door. Open to all storytellers wanting to learn more about the process of translating their creative talents into careers, these events include a panel and two short film showcases (one family friendly!) completely open to both our Festival audience and the public with NO badge needed to attend!
Please note, our COVID-19 protocols for this event will match those of the 28th Annual Austin Film Festival. To be admitted into the venue, attendees must present either proof of completed COVID-19 vaccination or present a negative COVID-19 test dated no more than 48 hours prior to the event. These credentials must match and be presented in tandem with a government-issued ID. For more information on AFF’s COVID-19 Policies please see here.
11 AM – 11:45 PMA discussion with pioneer creatives of color Chuck Hayward (writer, Dear White People) and Jameel Saleem (writer/co-executive producer, Bob’s Burgers), about their creative processes and navigating the industry.

12:30 PM – 1:55 PMJoin us for a shorts block that is for the whole family! We will present seven short films that will be full of laughs, tears, nail-biting moments, and everything in between.

3 PM – 4:21 PMSee premiere short films from BIPOC creators!

Speakers

Chuck Hayward

writer Wandavision, Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead, Dear White People, Flatbush Misdemeanors, Santa Inc.

Jameel Saleem

writer/co-executive producer Bob's Burgers; writer/producer Disenchantment; writer South Park Digital

Saturday October 23, 2021 11:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Vesper 3106 E 14th 1/2 St, Austin, TX 78702

Film, Community Programming

12:00pm CDT

Clean Slate

TRAILER

(USA, 95 MIN)

Director: Jared Callahan

Executive produced by Alex Lehmann (Paddleton, Blue Jay), CLEAN SLATE follows two friends in a drug recovery program in the American South struggling to come to terms with their addiction and mental illness by making a short film about the pain they’ve caused their families.

* In Attendance: Jared Callahan (Producer/Editor)

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:00pm - 1:55pm CDT
Hideout Theatre 617 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

Film, Documentary Feature

12:15pm CDT

A Conversation with Chase Palmer (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Speakers

Chase Palmer

co-writer IT: Chapter 1; writer/director Naked Singularity

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:15pm - 1:30pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

12:15pm CDT

Awards Luncheon

Tickets purchased separately at Registration Center. Must have a Conference or Producers Badge to Purchase

Don't miss this year's Awards Luncheon! While attending the Festival, don't miss the opportunity to attend AFF's Awards Luncheon, where you can dine with panelists, awardees, and hear inspiring speeches from this year's honorees and winners. A must attend event to make the most of your AFF experience.

ADDITIONAL TICKET PURCHASE REQUIRED! For Awards Luncheon ticketing information, please contact our Registration Director at 512-478-4795

PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY. AFF reserves the right not to seat late parties. This ticket in non-transferable

Moderators

Dave Buckman

Host, 2021 Awards Luncheon; The Second City, Boom Chicago, American Crime, Home Free

Speakers

Channing Godfrey Peoples

2021 Recipient of the New Voice Award

Scott Frank

2021 Recipient of the Bill Wittliff Award for Screenwriting

Stephanie Allain

2021 Recipient of the Polly Platt Award for Producing

Michael Schur

2021 Recipient of the Outstanding Television Writer Award

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
The Austin Club, Medallion Room 110 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701

Party

12:30pm CDT

A Conversation with Dave Callaham

From classic action flicks to video game adaptations to superhero films, Dave Callaham knows how to keep an audience begging for more. Join us for a one-on-one discussion with the writer as he discusses his career, navigating big budget blockbusters, and so much more!

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

Moderators

Casey Baron

Director of Programming and Industry Relations, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

Dave Callaham

writer Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Wonder Woman 1984, Zombieland 2, The Expendables; creator/showrunner Jean-Claude Van Johnson

Dave Callaham (co-writer) is a Chinese-American screenwriter who grew up in Northern California and moved to Los Angeles in 1999, where he worked as an assistant before selling his first script — a thriller — in 2002. Since then he has written across multiple genres, including... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

Audio Fiction Case Study: 1865

Join us for a case study on the hit audio drama, 1865, which follows the events after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Hear from creator/writer Steven Walters and executive producer Lindsay Graham as they break down the project from pre- to post-production and everything in between.

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

Speakers

Lindsay Graham

EP 1865, Terms; host American Scandal, American History Tellers, Business Movers

Steven Walters

creator/head writer 1865: the Audio Drama; executive producer Business Movers: owner Ritual Productions

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Omni Hotel, Ste. 700 (7th floor) 700 San Jacinto, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

Finding the Voice

Dialogue is more than just clever and memorable lines. It’s the art of making characters sound believable and entertaining while moving your story's plot forward. Sometimes it requires your characters to scream or ramble or just plain shut up. Join a discussion on how character speech is vital for shaping the tone of your story.

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

Moderators

Harrison Glaser

former Film Competition Director, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

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 →

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

Indie Film Track: The Art of the Short Film

Creating an engaging story with clear characterization, dialogue, and structure is challenging enough when creating a feature film— now imagine successfully weaving these nuanced elements into a short film. But don't worry! This panel will help you learn tips and trick for creating a successful, captivating short film that will leave audiences begging for more. We will see you there!

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

Moderators

Barton Weiss

Moderator

Speakers

Danielle Beckmann

producer Liza Anonymous

Danielle Beckmann is a bicoastal actress, producer, writer, and all around funny gal. Time Out New York named her a Critics’ Pick and Backstage calls her an actress who “attacks with impressive commitment.” Tribeca Film Festival recently premiered her dark comedy Liza Anonymous—she... Read More →

Honora Talbott

writer/director Fempire

Honora Talbott is an award-winning writer and director who loves using dark humor and genre to tell socially relevant stories with a bite. Her comedy thriller short We Know Where You Live (NBCUniversal Short Film Festival Finalist) played at 5 Oscar Qualifying Film festivals and is... Read More →

Dicky Chalmers

writer/director Angel

Dicky grew up in Dubai, was educated at Oxford, studied film in Tokyo, and for the past 20 yearshas been directing films and commercials across Asia.Dicky’s work has a polished and dynamic style, designed to move the heart and stir the senses,whilst also innovating with technique... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

Running the Show

Overseeing a show entails a lot of responsibility, but the time and energy that goes into creating one is extremely rewarding. As the show travels from an idea into production to become a polished product, showrunners assume many different roles throughout this process. Showrunners will discuss their role in the show and on set, how they participate in the writers’ room, and their day-to-day duties during production.

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

Moderators

Ya'Ke Smith

Associate Professor of Film/Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Moody College of Communication; Independent Filmmaker

Ya’Ke Smith, known for his unflinching and veracious style of storytelling, is a rising voice in independent cinema.His films have received world-wide acclaim, screening, and winning awards at over 100 film festivals. The Director’s Guild of America, the Student Academy Awards... Read More →

Speakers

Glen Mazzara

Creator/showrunner Damien, Showrunner The Walking Dead, Executive Producer The Shield

Devon Greggory

showrunner/executive producer The Game; co-creator/showrunner American Soul; writer, Underground, CBS: Cyber, Being Mary Jane

Born the youngest of nine, in the heart of Dixie, Devon Greggory grew up escaping the harsh reality of the projects through film and television. Years later, this Alabama native would pack his bags and run away to pursue his dream of filmmaking. Homeless, hungry and living on the... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
First Baptist Church of Austin 901 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

The Agent as Advocate

Join David Boxerbaum, partner at Verve Talent & Literary Agency, for a deep dive into how agents work with writers, their goals, and how they guide clients towards success.

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

Speakers

David Boxerbaum

Partner, Verve Talent & Literary Agency

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

Writing for Video Games: Opportunity Awaits Around Every Corner

Video Games may be the exciting new frontier. But braving a new medium and creative space also means wrangling with the opportunities inherent within. That's what this talk is all about. What skills are needed to make this path a reality? Conversely, what skills aren't needed, or may just be myths blocking you from taking a new exciting step forward? It's all on the table here. We'll also touch on how writing for games may fit into a larger career plan.

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

Moderators

David (D.S.) Cohen

Moderator

A games industry veteran, David (D.S.) Cohen has contributed to a multitude of console, mobile, online and MMO games and digital interactive experiences, with companies such as WB Games, Disney, Oddworld Interactive, Schell Games, and National Geographic Society. He also consulted... Read More →

Speakers

Evan Narcisse

staff writer gen:Lock, season 2; narrative design consultant Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Marvel's Avengers, Redfall

Erin Firestine

writer Weird West, Twin Suns Unannounced Project

Erin has been writing in one form or another since she learned to properly hold a pencil, and now has several years of experience in the game writing sphere for everything from character bios to combat barks. She currently works with independent game companies WolfEye Studios and... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
The Omni Hotel, Longhorn Room (3rd floor) 700 San Jacinto, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

12:30pm CDT

Austin Pitch #9

It’s the 19th Annual Austin Film Festival Pitch Competition! This unique event allows contestants 90 seconds to pitch their best ideas to a panel of judges made up of producers, managers, and screenwriters in a constructive and friendly environment. Give your best pitch in 90 seconds and secure your spot in the finals at the Pitch Finale Party on Saturday night.

All Pitch Sessions require an advance sign-up and are held at St. David’s Episcopal Church in the Vestry Conference Room, located at 301 E 8th Street.

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

Speakers

Kevin Hamedani

writer Darius the Great Is Not Okay, Infidel; writer/producer/showrunner Tether, writer/showrunner Stephen King's N.; writer/director Saviors, Zombies of Mas

Paul Merryman

producer, The Outpost

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Vestry Conference Room 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Pitch

12:30pm CDT

Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Dylan Kussman

writer/director The Steps; director Wrestling Jerusalem; writer The Mummy

Javier "Javi" Grillo-Marxuach

writer/producer Lost, The Dark Crystal, Cowboy Bebop; creator The Middleman

Chase Palmer

co-writer IT: Chapter 1; writer/director Naked Singularity

Jason Neulander

writer/director The Intergalactic Nemesis, Buttercup, Hit & Run, Fugitive Dreams

Jenna Milly

writer/executive producer Golden Arm; editor Screenwriting Magazine

Jenna cut her comedy teeth writing for the TBS micro-series ‘Gillian in Georgia’ which she also co-created and co-executive produced in 2010. Soon after, Austin Film Festival premiered her written-and-directed by short “A Peacock Feathered Blue.” ‘Golden Arm,’ her first... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Crail Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Roundtable

12:30pm CDT

Second Rounder Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Hank Jones

writer Bel-Air, Grownish, The Neighborhood

Zach Baylin

writer, King Richard, Creed III, The Crow (remake)

Ty Roberts

co-writer/producer/director 12 Mighty Orphans, The Iron Orchard

Ty Roberts completed his most recent film, 12 Mighty Orphans, released by Sony Pictures Classics in the summer of 2021. Previously, he co-wrote and directed the award winning feature, The Iron Orchard (Austin Film Festival Audience Award 2018), which was theatrically released in... Read More →

Cindy McCreery

writer The Honey Girls, Something in the Water, Haven, Free Willy: Escape from Pirate's Cove; Disney Feature Fellow, Associate Professor/Screenwriting Area Head, UT Austin

Alexandra E. Hartman

freelance writer Cowboy Bebop; writer Ghost Tape

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Sumners Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Script Competition Session

12:30pm CDT

Semifinalists and Above Panel: Echo Lake Entertainment

Join managers from Echo Lake Entertainment as they discuss the manager/client relationship we know you're all curious about. Listen in on how they support their clients, manage professional relationships, and find the perfect opportunities for every individual they represent. Come prepared with questions for this insightful conversation.

This panel is for Semifinalists and Above. Must have an AFF Producers or Conference Badge for entry.

Moderators

Bill True

writer Runaway, Hope Springs, Crazy Evil Genius; Head of Dramatic Writing, Scottsdale School of Film+Theatre

Speakers

Dana M. Jackson

Manager, Echo Lake Entertainment

A Mistake with the Chairs

TRAILER

A Mistake with the Chairs

(UK, 15 MIN)

Writers/Directors: Dave Kajganich, Alistair Petrie

Six new teachers at a venerated English boarding school in the 1960s are drawn into a moral crisis regarding upsetting charges against their Headmaster’s son.

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 2:25pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church

Short Film, Narrative Short

12:30pm CDT

Lemon Shark

Lemon Shark

(USA, 21 MIN)

Writer/Director: Kate Nowlin

Set among the highly diverse and adaptive student body of a midwestern public elementary school, LEMON SHARK reflects the realities of everyday people trying to survive and thrive in an ever-changing world. Kindergarten and music teacher Freddie and her thirteen-year-old daughter Sam, seek refuge in science and music while they discover what it means to love that which is endangered.

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 2:25pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church

Short Film, Narrative Short

A Mistake with the Chairs (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 2:25pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Short

12:30pm CDT

Lucia (Virtual Screening)

Saturday October 23, 2021 12:30pm - 2:25pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Student Short

Almost Starring (Virtual Screening)

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Original Series

1:00pm CDT

Blackout City (Virtual Screening)

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Original Series

1:00pm CDT

Early to Rise (Virtual Screening)

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Original Series

1:00pm CDT

Last Bodega in Brooklyn (Virtual Screening)

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Original Series

1:00pm CDT

Witchsters (Virtual Screening)

Witchsters

(USA, 5 MIN)

Writer/Director: Charla Lauriston

A mockumentary that follows sister witches Michelle and Maya as they search for love in LA.

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Original Series

1:00pm CDT

Swamp Lion

TRAILER

WORLD PREMIERE

Writer/Director: Torben Bech
Cast: Michael Ray Escamilla, Bre Blair, Luis Bordonada, Karen Sours Albisua, David Barrera, Dominic Hoffman, Jack Elliot Ybarra

After their son is diagnosed with advanced cancer, a trucker driver and supermarket cashier – Jim and Bee – struggle to climb the mountain of medical bills. In their greatest hour of need they are forced to come up with $ 250,000 in order to afford treatment. In this emotional and financial crisis, Jim ultimately decides to traffic drugs across the US/Mexican border.

PARAMOUNT AND STATE THEATRE BAG POLICY*
NOT permitted:
• No large bags over 14 x 12 x 6 in size
• No food or beverage of any kind
• No weapons of any shape or size (including
firearms, explosives, pocket knives, etc.)
• No cameras or recorders of any kind
ALLOWED but subject to inspection:
• Bags smaller than 14 x 12 x 6
• Diaper bags (when child is present)
• Medically necessary items (including breast
pumps)
• Jackets and coats

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:00pm - 3:11pm CDT
State Theatre

Film, Texas Independent Feature

1:00pm CDT

Memoria

(Colombia, 136 MIN)

Writer/director: Apichatpong Weerasethakul
Cast: Tilda Swinton, Elkin Díaz, Jeanne Balibar, Juan Pablo Urrego, Daniel Giménez Cacho

A woman from Scotland, while traveling in Colombia, begins to notice strange sounds. Soon she begins to think about their appearance.

PARAMOUNT AND STATE THEATRE BAG POLICY*

We have a Clear Bag Policy to minimize contact that a bag search would require.
Clear bags should not exceed 14″ x 12″ x 6″ in size.
Small, non-clear clutch bags will be allowed, and should not exceed 4.5” x 6.5” in size.

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:00pm - 3:16pm CDT
Paramount Theatre

Film, Marquee

Rubber Gun Club

A Shot in the Fog (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

A Shot in the Fog

(Brazil,6 MIN)

Writer/Director: João Thomaz Londres

An old man and a boy exchange shots in the fog.

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:15pm - 3:14pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Short

1:15pm CDT

KUSH: A Bubblegum Western (Virtual Screening)

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:15pm - 3:14pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Student Short

1:15pm CDT

On The Line (Virtual Screening)

On The Line

(USA, 20 MIN)

Writers: Duane Cooper, Dominick Santa Cattarina
Director: Camden Elizabeth

A death row chef questions mercy and justice as he cooks the meal of his life.

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:15pm - 3:14pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Short

1:15pm CDT

Rubber Gun Club (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

Rubber Gun Club

(USA, 10 MIN)

Writer/Director: Alex Bendo

After a fellow officer takes his life, a New York City policeman is forced to reckon with his own suicidal ideation.

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:15pm - 3:14pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Student Short

1:30pm CDT

After Antarctica

(USA, 104 MIN)

Writers: Don Bernier, Tasha Van Zandt, Sebastian Zeck
Directors: Tasha Van Zandt

After Antarctica follows polar explorer Will Steger’s life journey as an eyewitness to the greatest changes in the polar regions of our planet. After a lifetime of landmark expeditions across both poles, no one alive has seen more of the polar world.

Saturday October 23, 2021 1:30pm - 3:34pm CDT
Galaxy Highland - Screen 6 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752

Film, Documentary Feature

3:00pm CDT

A Conversation with Stephanie Allain: The 2021 Recipient of the Polly Platt Award for Producing

Join the 2021 recipient of the Polly Platt for Producing Award, Stephine Allain, as she discusses her prolific career and how she uses her position as a producer to heighten diverse stories with diverse voices at the helm.

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

Moderators

Casey Baron

Director of Programming and Industry Relations, Austin Film Festival; Moderator

Speakers

Stephanie Allain

2021 Recipient of the Polly Platt Award for Producing

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
800 Congress 800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Battle Scars

Prepare your script for war as it enters production because it will most certainly change. Whether it be cut scenes, difficult studio notes, or an actor bringing on a new perspective, our panelists have experienced it all. Join them as they share stories of seeing their projects come together and what they lost and gained along the way.

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

Moderators

Fred Strype

moderator; AFF Screenwriting Award-Winner; producer Martin Eden; Professor Filmmaking, Screenwriting & Moving Image Arts Program, Sarah Lawrence College

Speakers

Chase Palmer

co-writer IT: Chapter 1; writer/director Naked Singularity

Amy Louise Johnson

writer/producer Servant, Messiah, Nightflyers, The Long Road Home, Tyrant

Daniel Petrie, Jr.

Partner, Enderby Entertainment; writer Beverly Hills Cop, The Big Easy; director Dawn Patrol, Toy Soldiers; executive producer An Ordinary Man, Blackway, Zero Contact; former WGAW President

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
First Baptist Church of Austin 901 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Fostering Positive Change Through Story

Social Impact Entertainment (SIE) is a developing field for writers, producers, and studios/networks, particularly in the independent production community and with streaming services. Join our discussion with filmmakers and creative leaders in this dynamic area, who are writing and producing stories that inspire and move audiences. We’ll also discuss industry resources and networks that provide support for SIE work, such as the SIE Society, a newly formed organization, which is serving as an all-media platform to connect and empower professionals in entertainment in order to harness the power of story for the greater social good, and to achieve measurable-impact as a result.

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

Moderators

William Nix

executive producer The Prophet, This Is Ragtime: The Birth of American Music, Power, Return to Afghanistan and An Accidental Cuban; Firedancer; producer Gibran

Speakers

Aidan Dick

cowriter/codirector When Men Were Men

Aidan Dick is a non-binary independent filmmaker and writer. They wrote, co-directed, edited, shot, and starred in their feature debut, When Men Were Men, premiering at Austin Film Festival, which tackles issues of toxic masculinity in the trans community, Irish Catholic community... Read More →

Izzi Rojas

cowriter/codirector When Men Were Men

Izzi Rojas is a non-binary director, actor, writer and activist. They believe in creating art that inspires change and serves marginalized communities that are underrepresented in film. They are uncompromisingly commited to breaking down barriers in-front and behind the camera for... Read More →

Sam French

co-director With This Breath I Fly

An Oscar-nominated filmmaker, Sam spent five years living and working in Afghanistan, where he produced and directed documentaries for the UN, NGOs, aid organizations, and the media, including HBO, BBC, CNN, Channel 4 News and Al Jazeera. He wrote and directed the Academy Award nominated... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Crystal Room 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

From Web to TV: A Conversation with Linda Yvette Chávez

Once a DIY webseries, Gentefied is now a Netflix original with a second season on the way. Join the show's co-creator, Linda Yvette Chávez, in a conversation about the unique way Gentefied found distribution as a digital series and how the show tackles complex social issues while never sacrificing humor.

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

Moderators

Ya'Ke Smith

Associate Professor of Film/Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Moody College of Communication; Independent Filmmaker

Speakers

Linda Yvette Chávez

writer I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter, Flamin’ Hot; co-showrunner/co-creator, Gentefied

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Ballroom presented by International Screenwriters’ Association 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Indie Film Track: The Writer/Director Relationship

The relationship between a writer and director is an important one because it is their teamwork and mutual goals that brings to life to the film's narrative. Come and learn about the roles of each member of the relationship and how to create an understanding of the script placement in the filmmaking process. See you there!

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

Moderators

Jill Chamberlain

author, The Nutshell Technique: Crack the Secret of Successful Screenwriting

Speakers

Gabe Martinez

writer/co-director He's Dead & So Am I

Gabe Martinez is a Mexican American writer-director and creator of the strange web series, Blader High. An OC native, Martinez has developed and written on projects for Uber Content, Hello & Co., and more. He’s directed commercials, music videos, web series, and is the co-creator... Read More →

Gabriel Casdorph

co-director He's Dead & So Am I

Gabriel Casdorph is an American actor known for Wind River, Mosaic, and Yellowstone. Originally from Cross Lanes, West Virginia, Casdorph has been a Utah transplant, working in front and behind the camera for over 15 years. He’s directed a number of shorts, commercials, and several... Read More →

Jay Buim

cowriter/director Adventures in Success

Jay Buim is a filmmaker, writer, and photographer currently based in Toronto, Canada.Jay Buim has long been drawn to the underdog and the seemingly mundane, seeking the beauty in the everyday. As a filmmaker, he puts aesthetics at the service of authenticity, balancing craft and style... Read More →

Susan Juvet

cowriter Adventures in Success

Susan Juvet is a Strategy Director, writer, and creative currently based in Toronto, Canada.Susan is a natural born leader with a love for creative forms and a drive for bringing visions to life. A writer, actor, and producer, Susan facilitates an atmosphere of collaboration, inspiration... Read More →

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Maximilian Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Keeping Your Reader's Attention

Join this conversation on how scripts read when submitted to competitions, writing programs, representation, and studios. 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, Conference, Weekend, or Lone Star Badge for entry.

Moderators

Bill True

writer Runaway, Hope Springs, Crazy Evil Genius; Head of Dramatic Writing, Scottsdale School of Film+Theatre

Speakers

Jen Goyne Blake

Founding Director, Episodic Lab at the Sundance Institute; Executive Producer, Diversity Hire, Ltd.

Eric Williams

Founding Partner/Literary Manager, Zero Gravity Management

Kelly Edwards

author The Executive Chair; writer Our Kind Of People

Kelly Edwards recently left her role as HBO's SVP, Talent Development, for a two-year, first-look writing deal with the premium network. Earlier this summer, she staffed on the new Fox drama Our Kind Of People and will be releasing a new book called The Executive Chair: A Writer’s... Read More →

Rebecca Windsor

Head, Warner Bros. Television Workshop

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Driskill Hotel, Citadel Room 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Writing for Video Games: Breaking In & Staking Claim

The toughest part sometimes is simply breaking in. At the point of launching into a career of writing for games, how do you go about doing it? Consider the many types of narrative games players dive into and enjoy. Let's demystify that and provide a starting point for your new journey. How does a writer from industry X transition into the games industry? What advice can be offered by our panelists? The industry has a lot of avenues for entry, and we're excited to put some of them on display.

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

Moderators

Miles Luna

Moderator

Miles Luna is a Mexican-American writer, director and voice actor from Austin, Texas. Best known for his work on the critically acclaimed animated series, RWBY, Red vs. Blue, and Camp Camp, Miles is also a student of game design and narrative with a passion for interactive story... Read More →

Speakers

Donald Harris

Founder ATX Gamer Makers; Executive Producer FarBridge

Donald has been in the game industry for over a decade, working on some of his favorite game franchises like Titanfall and Battlefield. He loves creating games that take people out of their everyday lives and send them into a world of fantasy. When he’s not making games at FarBridge... Read More →

Frank Barbiere

writer Ruined King: A League of Legends Story, Darksiders Genesis, Destiny 2: Warmind

A former English teacher, Frank is a graduate of Rutgers University and the Graduate School for Education.After breaking into the comics industry with the creator-owned hit Five Ghosts (Image Comics), Frank has since worked for every major publisher in the U.S., as well as having... Read More →

Lucas Loredo

narrative designer/writer Weird West

Lucas Loredo is a writer and narrative designer for Weird West at WolfEye Studios. His prose has been featured in Best American Short Stories and Best American Travel Writing, and he holds a BFA and an MFA from Stanford University and the University of Texas respectively.

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
The Omni Hotel, Longhorn Room (3rd floor) 700 San Jacinto, E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Conference

3:00pm CDT

Austin Pitch #10

It’s the 19th Annual Austin Film Festival Pitch Competition! This unique event allows contestants 90 seconds to pitch their best ideas to a panel of judges made up of producers, managers, and screenwriters in a constructive and friendly environment. Give your best pitch in 90 seconds and secure your spot in the finals at the Pitch Finale Party on Saturday night.

All Pitch Sessions require an advance sign-up and are held at St. David’s Episcopal Church in the Vestry Conference Room, located at 301 E 8th Street.

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

Speakers

Javier "Javi" Grillo-Marxuach

writer/producer Lost, The Dark Crystal, Cowboy Bebop; creator The Middleman

Christian Bersani

Creative Executive, Josephson Entertainment

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Vestry Conference Room 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Pitch

3:00pm CDT

Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Ryan Cunningham

Manager/Producer, Anonymous Content

Zadoc Angell

Co-President, Echo Lake Entertainment

Devon Greggory

showrunner/executive producer The Game; co-creator/showrunner American Soul; writer, Underground, CBS: Cyber, Being Mary Jane

Brandy Finmark

writer Chelsea, Crossing Swords, Crank Yankers

Jeffrey Brown

producer Cowboys, Nothing Stays The Same, Through The Repellent Fence, Yallah! Underground, No No: A Dockumentary

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Crail Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Roundtable

3:00pm CDT

Semifinalists and AFF Filmmaker Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television*

Speakers

Fran Kranz

writer/director Mass

Dailyn Rodriguez

co-showrunner/executive producer Queen of the South, Ugly Betty, Lie to Me, The Glades

Chuck Hayward

writer Wandavision, Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead, Dear White People, Flatbush Misdemeanors, Santa Inc.

Lucas Martell

co-creator Spies In Disguise, writer/director The OceanMaker

Herschel Weingrod

writer Trading Places, Brewster's Millions, Twins, Kindergarten Cop, Space Jam; producer Falling Down

Todd Ireland

writer Sunny, Continuum

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
St. David's Episcopal Church, Sumners Hall 301 E. 8th Street Street, Austin, TX 78701

Script Competition Session

3:00pm CDT

New Voices in Short Content - Austin Film Festival in Six Square

New Voices in Short Content
3 PM – 4:21 PM
See premiere short films from BIPOC creators!
4:21 PM – 4:41 PM
Filmmaker Q&A session

Cary in Retrograde
(USA, 28)
writers/wirectors: Priya Domfeh, Philipp Yaw
A tale about ALMOST never giving up, "Cary in Retrograde" follows a failed musician as he traverses a surrealist Los Angeles in hopes of a second chance.

HEARTLAND
(USA, 11)
writer/director: Jahmil Eady
A woman attempts to immortalize her dying grandfather using virtual reality technology, but her obsession with
documenting drives a wedge between them.

In the Darkness
(USA, 7)
writer/director: Meko Winbush
A man's life is disrupted when he begins to suffer from sleep paralysis.

Last Bodega in Brooklyn
(USA, 10)
writer: Mosiah Moonsammy
directors: Mosiah Moonsammy, Jared Glenn
An Afro-latino family in Brooklyn runs a local bodega in their neighborhood. A new organic store owner moves across the street with plans of expanding his empire and taking over the bodega. This Brooklynite Tribe must band together to save their business and community from being gentrified.

Metal
(USA, 20)
writer/director: Mischa Webley
A grieving grandfather takes up graffiti to overcome the loss of his grandson, a talented graffiti artist.

When the Sun Sets
(South Africa, 14)
writer/director: Phumi Morare
A young, black nurse living in 1985 apartheid South Africa must face her worst fears when she learns that her activist, younger brother may be in danger when he doesn't return after school.

Witchsters
(USA, 5)
writer/director: Charla Lauriston
A mockumentary that follows sister witches Michelle and Maya as they search for love in LA.

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:00pm - 4:41pm CDT
Vesper 3106 E 14th 1/2 St, Austin, TX 78702

Film, Community Programming

3:15pm CDT

Buried: 1982 Alpine Meadows Avalanche

TRAILER

(USA, 100 MIN)

Writers/Directors: Jared Drake, Steven Siig

The story of an unprecedented avalanche that devastated a small mountain community and the forecaster responsible for predicting it.

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:15pm - 5:15pm CDT
Hideout Theatre 617 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

Film, Documentary Feature

3:15pm CDT

Buried: 1982 Alpine Meadows Avalanche (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

(USA, 100 MIN)

Writers/Directors: Jared Drake, Steven Siig

The story of an unprecedented avalanche that devastated a small mountain community and the forecaster responsible for predicting it.

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:15pm - 5:15pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Documentary Feature

3:30pm CDT

Disfluency

(USA, 95 MIN)

Writer/Director: Anna Baumgarten
Cast: Libe Barer, Ariela Barer, Chelsea Alden, Dylan Arnold, Travis Tope, Ricky Wayne

After failing her final college class, Jane returns home to her family's lake house, and comes to terms with the confusing trauma that derailed her senior year.

*In Attendance: Anna Elizabeth Baumgarten, Libe Barer (Lead Actor, Consulting Producer), Ariela Barer (Lead Actor), Chelsea Alden (Lead Actor), Molly Hagan (Supporting Actor), Ricky Wayne (Supporting Actor), Diana DeLaCruz (Supporting Actor), Kimiko Singer (Supporting Actor), Alex Rudolph (Executive Producer), Danny Mooney (Producers), Elaine Hastings Edell (Producer), Katie C'etta (Co-producer), Laura Holliday (Consulting Producer, Song Contributor), Bret Miller (Assistant Director), Kevin Birou (Editor), Nathan Alexander (Composer), Monica Geraffo (Costume Designer), Logan Dillon (HMU), Clarissa Baumgarten (Life Guard, Emergency Response), Ben Baumgarten (Vehicle Operator), and Dana Baumgarten (Body Double)*

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Galaxy Highland - Screen 5 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752

Film, Narrative Feature

3:30pm CDT

Disfluency (Virtual Screening)

(USA, 95 MIN)

Writer/director: Anna Baumgarten
Cast: Libe Barer, Ariela Barer, Chelsea Alden, Dylan Arnold, Travis Tope, Ricky Wayne

After failing her final college class, Jane returns home to her family's lake house, and comes to terms with the confusing trauma that derailed her senior year.

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Feature

3:45pm CDT

A Conversation with Dave Callaham (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Speakers

Dave Callaham

writer Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Wonder Woman 1984, Zombieland 2, The Expendables; creator/showrunner Jean-Claude Van Johnson

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:45pm - 5:00pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

3:45pm CDT

Small Screen Scares (Prerecorded Virtual Panel)

Speakers

Nick Antosca

writer/showrunner Channel Zero, Brand New Cherry Flavor, The Act; writer/EP Antlers

Saturday October 23, 2021 3:45pm - 5:00pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Conference

When the Sun Sets (Virtual Screening)

TRAILER

Saturday October 23, 2021 4:00pm - 5:56pm CDT
EVENTIVE

Virtual Film, Narrative Student Short

4:15pm CDT

Addict Named Hal

TRAILER

(USA, 83MIN)

Writer/Director: Lane Michael Stanley
Cast: Natalie L'Amoreaux, Ray A. Roberts, II, Donato de Luca, Daniela Vidaurre

When Amy is sent unwillingly to a halfway house by her mom, she thinks she is different from everyone else - until Hal, a heroin addict returning to the house from jail, convinces her to give recovery a try. But Amy soon learns that her drinking won’t just disappear, and she may have a bigger problem than she thought. This film explores the everyday struggles, joys, and horrors of getting clean.

Sponsors

Whataburger

Saturday October 23, 2021 4:15pm - 5:58pm CDT
Rollins Theatre presented by Whataburger 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Film, Texas Independent Feature

Love, Guns & Level Ups

Love, Guns & Level Ups

(Australia, 11 MIN)

Writers: Andrew Shanks, Nicholas Cleary, Daniel Vink
Directors: Andrew Shanks, Nicholas Cleary

When an international cosplayer and an introverted game developer connect online, they discover the challenges of a real-world relationship.

Saturday October 23, 2021 4:15pm - 6:13pm CDT
Galaxy Highland - Screen 4 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752

Short Film, Original Series

4:15pm CDT

Trapped