Pustnik | screenwriters residency

Pustnik Screenwriters Residency is a retreat for filmmakers that are writing their first feature film. Eight projects – two from Romania and six from overseas – are selected.

The 10th edition of the residency will take place 17-24 September 2024 in rural Romania.

Besides dedicated writing time, participants have the opportunity to meet established screenwriters who can provide feedback on their projects.

Residents and guests also take part in common working sessions and screenings of their own work.

There are no application or participation fees and the organisers cover the costs of accommodation and meals, as well as transport within Romania.  International transport is the responsibility of each foreign resident.

Residents are selected by the co-founders of Pustnik, Andreea Bortun (writer/director, Romania) and Bryn Chainey (writer/director, UK/Australia).

The 2024 September residency selection will be announced towards the end of June.

Eligibility criteria:

– You must be available during the entirety of the residency (17-24 September 2024).

– You must be a writer/director who hasn’t had a feature-length screenplay already produced OR a screenwriter with a previous experience of maximum of one feature film co-written with somebody else.

– Fiction projects only. That means NO hybrid documentary, animation, TV series, web series, experimental, or video art.

– You must have a previous screenwriting credit on a short fiction film that has screened at a festival in this list

– Please only apply with one project. If you are a writing duo, please apply together.

– All materials must be submitted in English. An advanced level of English is required for all activities.

Files to be added to the application form (as one single pdf): 

– Filmography and short bio (maximum 200 words)

– Headshot

– Synopsis of your project (maximum three pages)

– Mood board

– Writer’s intention note: Tell organisers why this project is important to you. How far along is the development process? Do you already have a producer attached? Who is the intended audience? What are some reference films?

Deadline: 20 March 2024, 23:59 CET

As a non-profit project, Pustnik charges no application or participation fees.

Click here to download the application form, where you will also find the full details on what to expect and what is expected from you.

Please send your application as a single pdf to apply@pustnik.com.

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