Contained Genre Screenwriting Contest
Winner Signs Shopping Agreement with Witchcraft Motion Picture Company!
We’re proud to announce the Stage 32 + Witchcraft Motion Picture Company Contained Genre Screenwriting Contest to help discover the next great contained story. Witchcraft are partnering in a first-of-its-kind contest designed to fast-track a contained genre script from contest discovery to professional development and production!
Witchcraft Motion Picture Company is leading that charge. They champion bold storytelling, built on the belief that great films and great writers come from anywhere and everywhere. Witchcraft has developed a reputation for producing prestigious and commercially viable projects that thrill audiences while resonating long after.
“The arcane barriers to entry that exist in the film industry aren’t necessary,” said Witchcraft’s Rod Blackhurst and Noah Lang in a joint statement. “Great ideas can come from anywhere, and too often the people with the most original voices are the ones being overlooked by outdated ecosystems designed to reward privilege instead of talent. Years ago, Witchcraft made a commitment to send the elevator back down.”
Witchcraft Motion Picture Company will be personally reviewing semi-finalist loglines and all top 10 finalist scripts, with winners selected based on both creative merit and commercial viability. The winning writer(s) will receive script development, industry mentorship, and sign a shopping agreement for packaging with potential production pathways designed to fast-track emerging writers. Both Stage 32 and Witchcraft Motion Picture Company will jointly package developed projects for production.
What Is A Contained Genre Movie?
A contained movie is a film that takes place within confined parameters - such as limited locations and a smaller cast, often relying on high tension, psychological drama, and character development rather than VFX spectacle. These films are are common in the thriller, horror, crime, sci-fi, drama, and found footage genres - which is exactly what we’re looking for!
Limited Setting: Usually confined to one or a few main locations (e.g., Panic Room, Buried, Phone Booth).
Small Cast: Often features only three to five characters, sometimes only one, driving the narrative.
High Tension/Claustrophobia: The physical (contained) restriction is used to heighten fear, anxiety, and intimacy.
Character-Driven: Focuses on performance and interpersonal conflict.
Learn more at the link below!
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