Update: 2023 Austin Film Festival & Writers Conference

I’m moderating three panels, participating in a roundtable, leading a post-screening Q&A at the world premiere of the documentary The Stars at Night, and hosting a one-on-one conversation with writer-director Whit Stillman (Metropolitan, Barcelona, The Last Days of Disco, Damsels in Distress, Love & Friendship).

I first attended the Austin Film Festival and its Writers Conference in 2013. I’ve been back many times as a presenter, panelist, and moderator. I’m back again this year. Here is my updated schedule.

Friday, October 27, 2023

Writing for a Procedural (Moderator)
1:30pm — 2:45pm (St. David’s, Bethel Hall)

Hear from writers on Chicago PD, S.W.A.T, and FBI International about the inner workings of writing for a procedural crime show. Procedurals offer a unique experience for writers who must adhere to strict structural guidelines. Learn how to balance self-contained episodic plot lines with long term seasonal character arcs. Featured panelists: Sean Collins-Smith (Chicago PD), Niceole Levy (The Banker, The Recruit), Jill Goldsmith (Law & Order, The Practice, Boston Legal, Ally McBeal, NYPD Blue).

Indie Film Track: Rewriting for Development (Moderator)
3:15pm — 4:30pm (Omni, Mansfield)

Rewriting never stops. Learn how to incorporate feedback, kill your darlings, and ultimately make to make your script stronger for its next stage of life. Featured panelists: Matt Geller (President, Josephson Entertainment), Seckeita Lewis (Co-Founder Lewis Taylor Productions; Co-Writer/Director/Producer ImPossible; Director/Producer Jerico).

Saturday, October 28, 2023

Nailing Your Spec Script: TV Versus Features (Moderator)10:45am–12:00pm (Omni, Pennybacker)

In this industry, spec scripts can refer to both an original feature or pilot idea and an episode of an existing TV show. Join Niceole Levy, Alex Convery, and Glenn Cockburn as they break down the differences between the two — and the importance of nailing them both. From crafting engaging dialogue to executing a captivating plot, this session provides invaluable insights and practical tips to help you create a standout script. Featured panelists: Alex Convery (Air), Niceole Levy (The Banker, The Recruit), Glenn Cockburn (President/Literary Agent, Meridian Artists).

World Premiere: The Stars at Night (Moderator)1:00pm-2:15pm (Galaxy Theatre 5)

The Stars at Night is a feature documentary that explores the connection between astronomy, mythology, and original storytelling. Through expert interviews and an expedition to one of North America’s last truly dark skies we try to discover what impact light pollution is having on our culture, and what stories may have never been told, had the storytellers never seen the stars.

Industry Roundtable: The Art, Craft, and Business of Film & Television
3:00pm-4:15pm (St. David’s, )

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.

A Conversation with Whit Stillman
4:45pm-6:00pm (St. David’s, Bethel Hall)

Oscar-nominated writer and director Whit Stillman joins the Festival to discuss his storied career. From his Oscar-nominated debut feature, Metropolitan, to his later films such as Damsels in Distress and Love & Friendship, he is here to discuss everything from capitalizing on festival success, to conquering new mediums through television writing, and securing studio funding as an independent filmmaker.

For more information on the event, go here.

Hope to see you there!

Twitter: @austinfilmfest.