The team and I just returned from the Austin Film Festival, and I can't underestimate the power of putting yourself out there. After talking with hundreds of writers, filmmakers, and producers over the past few days, it's clear that creatives are increasingly thinking globally.

Multiple filmmakers approached us to share how they're shooting internationally, partnering with global production companies, and leveraging local tax incentives to push their projects forward. New production hubs are emerging across the U.S. beyond LA and NYC, creating more opportunities than ever. Creatives are taking control, building their own communities, and making films on their own terms…and that's the future.

Stage 32 provides a global networking hub that has become an essential infrastructure for this new reality. Three different writers and writer/directors approached us at the festival to share that they'd signed shopping agreements through Stage 32 and are now actively packaging projects and raising financing. This is the shift happening right now. The future of film isn't being dictated from above; it's being built from within the community itself, and it's truly global. The energy around independent film feels different this year, more empowered and interconnected than ever before.

Creatives have a decision to make: wait for the industry to find you, or build your career on your own terms.

Recently In The Stage 32 Writer's Room

Last week in the Writers' Room, we hosted James Leighton, Director of Development at a production company with a deal at ABC Studios. Four writers pitched their projects directly to him, with one receiving a script request on the spot—proving that the traditional gatekeeping model is dissolving. Producers and executives are actively seeking material from writers on Stage 32. The walls between creators and decision-makers have never been more permeable.

If you would like to join the Writers’ Room, access weekly events, submit to dozens of open writing assignments, and attend exclusive pitch tanks with industry executives- click HERE for a free trial!

This Week’s Exciting Announcements!

This week, we're thrilled to spotlight the Grand Prize Winner of our 9th Annual Sci-fi & Fantasy Screenwriting Contest!

Jenn Fonteyn - Screenwriter!

Jenn Fonteyn is our 9th Annual Sci-fi & Fantasy Winner with her script DEATH IS MY SHADOW and a Raindance Film Festival Script Competition 2022 Winner of the Action/Adventure category. She is also a nominee for Best Unproduced Screenplay, a Stage 32 Annual Period Piece Finalist, Austin Film Festival Semifinalist, and lifelong horse enthusiast. She holds BS and MS degrees. Two decades of working as a science writer come through in her authentic and painstakingly researched scripts. She writes high-concept dramatic features that advocate for social and environmental justice.

As our grand prize winner, she'll win a Career Accelerator prize package valued at $5,000 that includes script & career development, writer branding and an education package and will be set up on VIP MENTORSHIP meetings industry professionals who’ve worked on iconic TV shows like SEVERANCE, SNOWPIERCER, VAN HELSING, STARGATE SG-1 and more!

November Write Club Is Back and Kicking Off on Monday!

Every November, creatives from all over the world come together on Stage 32 for a month of motivation, accountability, and community. It’s our biggest and most feel-good creative challenge of the year — and whether you’re a writer, filmmaker, actor, producer, or any other kind of storyteller, this is your moment to finish the year strong.

November Write Club is simple: you pick a goal and make it happen. That’s it.

That first draft you need to finish? Get on it.

That short you’ve been planning? Film it.

Those query letters you’ve been putting off? Write them.

That new network you’ve been wanting to build? Start reaching out.

Every goal is personal — and that’s what makes Write Club so powerful. For one month, the entire Stage 32 Community rallies behind you, cheering you on and helping you stay accountable.

Throughout November, we’ll be here with weekly blogs, creative challenges, motivational tips, and exclusive prizes to help keep you focused and inspired.

Click here to learn more about how to prepare for November Write Club!

Big news that could change your career:
We just launched The Stage 32 Comedy Pathfinder Contest (featured in Deadline!)

The Winner Gets: IMMEDIATE management representation with Pathfinder Media (Mark Wheeler’s powerhouse company), Project development with Todd Biermann (EP of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, High Potential), Full packaging with A-list talent and top-tier director attached, Direct to market - Your project pitched to buyers who trust these names.

This is the kind of opportunity that usually requires years of networking, lucky breaks, and knowing the right people. Now it just requires your best comedy script. The contest opened last week. Early submissions get more attention from readers, better feedback, and show you’re serious about your career.

Two ways to jump in:

• Submit your script now by clicking here!
• Need help navigating the industry? Contact success@stage32.com

Stage 32 has hundreds of opportunities. Reach out to our success team at anytime for personal guidance and career advice.

Let's hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Got an idea for a post? Or have you collaborated with Stage 32 members to create a project? We'd love to hear about it. Email Ashley at success@stage32.com and let's get your post published!

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