Updates and News
14:00 Comedy Writing masterclass from former Executive Producer at BBC Comedy
Join award-winning producer Simon Nicholls for a dynamic one-hour masterclass packed with practical tools to sharpen your comedy writing and get your work noticed.
Simon Nicholls // Screenwriter
Award-winning comedy producer and mentor Simon Nicholls brings two decades of BBC and indie expertise to developing standout TV, audio, and new writing talent.
Erik Bork // Screenwriter
Erik Bork is an Emmy- and Golden Globe–winning screenwriter (Band of Brothers) and author of The Idea, known for helping writers build story concepts that succeed on both the page and in the marketplace.
Sally Wainwright // Screenwriter
Sally Wainwright OBE is an award-winning writer, producer and director from Yorkshire, best known for Happy Valley, Last Tango in Halifax, Gentleman Jack and Scott & Bailey. A multiple BAFTA-winning drama writer, her work is celebrated for its emotional depth, sharp wit and fearless female characters.
Isabel Drean // Screenwriter and Digital Visionary
After beginning her career in horror and psychological thrillers, Isabel pivoted to holiday films, with five Christmas features produced in just 18 months, including Secret Santa, Christmas Beneath the Stars, and The Holiday Swap. Isabel is now known as being an expert in Vertical Drama.
Stacey Simmons // Therapist and Story Analyst
Psychotherapist and former animation professional who helps writers move beyond the Hero’s Journey to craft powerful, sovereign female stories.
Linda Paige // Confidence Coach and Actual Wonder Woman
Linda is a Confidence & Life Coach for creative women, helping them rise, be seen, and get paid by aligning mindset, identity, and personal style.
Eleanor Greene // Executive Producer
BAFTA-nominated executive producer with 25+ years’ experience developing and producing award-winning scripted TV and film across genres.
Kimberley Lipschus // Screenwriter, Trainer and Psychotherapist
Kimberley champions inclusive, embodied storytelling, helping writers access the deeper truth of their stories.
Glenn Gers // Screenwriter
Glenn Gers is an Emmy-winning screenwriter, director, and educator with over 25 years of professional experience writing for film, television, and audio.
Jason Eric Perlman // Screenwriter and Director
Jason Eric Perlman is a filmmaker and screenwriter specializing in smart, high-stakes thrillers for film and television.
Tom Vaughan // Screenwriter and Educator
Tom Vaughan is a veteran screenwriter with nearly thirty years of industry experience, writing for major studios including Warner Brothers, Sony Pictures, Disney, and Castle Rock Entertainment.
19:00 The Emergent Heroine: Reframing the Hero’s Journey with Kimberley Lipschus
Break free from the traditional Hero’s Journey and discover a narrative framework that mirrors your story, and the stories you want to tell on screen.
17:00 Theme-Driven Story Architecture with Jason Eric Perlman
If you have no Theme, you’re “spineless!” Let’s turn story upside down and see that Theme isn’t the high ceiling above your tale, it’s the very floorboards!
Lucy Linger // Director, Writer, and Producer
Lucy Linger is a dynamic director, writer, and producer with a multifaceted career across film, TV, and theatre.
Chris Jones // Creative Director
LondonSWF Founder, Filmmaker, Screenwriter, Author, and Firewalk Instructor!
Bob Schultz // Festival Producer
Writer, Producer, Instructor, Professor, and Pitch Perfector! In addition to the festival, Bob teaches an array of online screenwriting courses.
Lisa Shelley // Festival Producer
Lisa often sits in the corner getting up to mischief when she isn’t working miracles for us!
KT Parker // Festival Producer
Award-winning screenwriter, produced playwright, published story-teller, citizen journalist and erstwhile blogger.
Judith Bunting // Support Team Leader
Screenwriter for TV and features. Documentary producer, RTS. Former MEP.
Emily Monaghan // Actors Table Read Producer
Emily Monaghan is a screenwriter and director from the New York City area in the United States. Monaghan has written and directed several short films, including Changing Tune (2024) and Le Fleur (2023)
Max Bramley // Technology
Max Bramley is a director, writer and producer based in London. Having developed an early taste for filmmaking, Max’s influences are diverse and characterful, much like his current body of work. As a filmmaker and as a co-founder of Chasemore Films, Max aims to create “good trouble”.
Mufrida Hayes // Director
Mufrida has worked for over 25 years as an actor, voice artist and improvisor and enjoys both drama and comedy. Credits include: TV – Doctors, Silent Witness and Emmerdale, theatre West End and fringe.
Mufrida Hayes // Actor
Mufrida has worked for over 25 years as an actor, voice artist and improvisor and enjoys both drama and comedy. Credits include: TV – Doctors, Silent Witness and Emmerdale, theatre West End and fringe.
Amber Morris // Marketing
Amber Morris is an undergraduate student attending Boston University’s College of Communication, pursuing a degree in journalism and public relations. She previously worked as a homepage co-op at The Boston Globe.
Chloe Sears // Production
An avid writer and filmmaker from New York, Chloe is double majoring in English and Film Studies at Wesleyan University.
Oli Purches // Production Co-Ordinator
Filmmaker, Musician, Poet. Made ‘I Am The Prize’ (2020) – viewable on YouTube.
Elinor Perry-Smith // Labs Co-Ordinator
Elinor is a writer, editor and proofreader based in London. She loves horror and arthouse films in equal measure.
Hamish Galbraith // Head of Technology
Hamish is an editor and filmmaker who can be found in any spare time he has at the bottom of the pool playing underwater hockey!
Jan von Raumer // Technical Support
Upcoming and aspiring filmmaker who currently studies MA Cinematography at Goldsmith’s University and develops his own documentary “The Magic Behind The Trick” combining his passions for filmmaking and magic.
Alex B. Jones // Script Chat Host
Alex B. Jones, self-effacing ginger with penchant for science fiction comedy.
Pascal Bergamin // Producer and Director
Pascal si looking for feature films with a strong cinematic identity, made to be experienced on the big screen and beyond.
Emily Monaghan // Director
Emily Monaghan is a screenwriter and director from the New York City area in the United States. Monaghan has written and directed several short films, including Changing Tune (2024) and Le Fleur (2023)
Sarah B. Williams // Screenwriter and Lecturer
Sarah is a screenwriter, producer and musician whose screenplay Across The Line has been optioned by Cannibal Films with director Francis Annan (Escape From Pretoria) attached.
Cara Kiri // Actor
Originally from South Wales, Cara Kiri is a London based actor. Curious and playful in her approach to acting, her aim is to dare to connect truthfully in the depths of authenticity.
Chloë J Wigmore // Actor
Wanted to be the new Indiana Jones growing up. Discovered Spielberg lied to her about how the world of archeology works and so became a actor to have pretend adventures. Still insists Spielberg owes her a job.
Gareth Turkington // Actor
Gareth is a versatile character actor & voice artist with a proven track record in multi-rolling & developing new work.
Mitra Djalili // Actor
Actress of Middle Eastern heritage and raised in Northern Ireland. Warm, amiable, soft accent. Playful and geeky, smart and professional attributes.
14:00 Writing The Short Film with Pilar Alessandra
A short film can be a career starter, a piece of art or just an entertaining, bite-sized moment on screen. No matter what your end-game, this class will get you started by helping you get your short film on the page.
Danny Dalton // Actor
40 year-old, working class from London. Actor, teacher, and father. Danny has worked at the RSC, NT and West End.
Nina Stratford // Actor
Nina has a vibrant energy and a keen ear for accents. Before her acting career, she worked in both the Fire and Police Services, giving her a wealth of experience to draw upon creatively.
Julian Wilkins // Lawyer
Julian Wilkins is Editorial Director for Blue Pencil Media Limited and will be running the legal clinic at the festival.
Amory Leader // Producer
Amory Leader works at Big Book Media Ltd as a Producer and Development Executive for feature films, as well as offering script and story consultancy services for writers and producers.
Frank Spotnitz // Writer & Executive Producer
Frank transforms international television through groundbreaking series spanning science fiction, drama, and historical epics, from The X-Files to The Man in the High Castle.
An Honest Assessment of So-Called Screenwriting Rules with Scott Myers
Cut through the noise of conventional screenwriting wisdom and discover which “rules” actually matter – and which ones are holding you back.
The Five Character Archetypes Reimagined with Scott Myers
Fresh insights, new case studies, and contemporary applications of the game-changing character archetype system that has influenced writers worldwide.
Ned Dowd // Producer
Ned has been producer in one capacity or another, and previously an AD, on over fifty feature films. From Apocalypto to Last of the Mohicans.
Nicola May // Bestselling Author & Independent Publishing Advocate
Nicola champions independent publishing while creating bestselling romantic comedies that capture readers’ hearts and imagination.
Tom Mead // Author
Tom Mead revives the Golden Age detective tradition through his acclaimed Joseph Spector mysteries, blending classic locked-room puzzles with theatrical flair.
Write the Book First: The Beating Heart of Storytelling
Writing a book can give you creative control, build your audience, and maybe even create valuable IP for potential screen adaptation.
Logline Clinic Live! With Bob Schultz
Watch your logline transform from good to irresistible in this dynamic, interactive workshop on telling a whole story in 10 words.
Dynamic Dialogue: Pop Off The Page with Thomas McMullan
Transform your dialogue from mere conversation into powerful dramatic action
Thomas McMullan // Writer and Trainer
Thomas crafts narratives across multiple mediums, from award-winning novels to BAFTA-winning video games, while pushing creative boundaries in each form.
006 Advanced Mentoring Script Lab: Emotional Mastery in Drama, Crafting Stories That Resonate with Vicki Jung
Master the essential elements of powerful drama with Vicki Jung, whose 15+ years of script development expertise has shaped projects for the BFI, BBC Films, UK Film Council, and countless award-winning independent productions.
The Perfect Crime Drama: Engineering Suspense That Kills with Hayley McKenzie
Master the art of crafting mysteries that keep audiences on the edge of their seats and producers begging for more.
Television on the Edge (of Your Seat): The Art of the Modern Thriller
Discover how to create the kind of addictive, suspense-driven television that keeps viewers obsessing until the very last frame.
Mastering the Art of Scene-Writing: The Building Blocks of Unforgettable Scripts with Simon van der Borgh
Transform your everyday scenes into powerful dramatic moments that readers can’t forget and producers can’t resist.
Diversity Under Fire: Writing Truth in Turbulent Times
Navigate the crucial challenges of authentic representation in 2025 with a panel of creatives whoare transforming how we write diverse characters.
Powering Your Series: Building Story Engines That Never Run Out of Fuel with Hayley McKenzie
Discover how to create TV series concepts with endless storytelling potential that keep audiences coming back season after season.
One-On-One with Graham Yost: The King of Television’s Golden Age
Join the creative force behind ‘Slow Horses,’ ‘Justified’, and ‘Silo’ as he reveals the secrets to crafting compelling television across multiple genres.
Gemma Mushington // Writer and Trainer
Gemma is a screenwriter from East London and screenwriting module leader at Central Film School.
Tom Kerevan // Cannibal Films
Tom Kerevan is a British screenwriter and producer for film and TV.
Charlotte Wontner // Producer and Development Exec
Charlotte Wontner has 30 years of experience working in film and television as a producer and in development at Hopscotch Films.
TV Pitch Boot Camp: 60 Seconds to Shine with John Yorke
Get your TV pitch battle-tested by one of British television’s most influential figures
What Agents Actually Want to Hear From Your Pitch with Julian Friedmann
An industry veteran reveals the secrets of pitching that make agents lean forward, not tune out
Voice: The X-Factor That Makes Your Writing Unforgettable with Tammy Riley-Smith
Discover how to infuse your scripts with that elusive quality that makes readers love your work
From Tiny to Mighty: Writing Adult Drama with Child-Like Clarity with Catherine Williams
The building blocks for great writing — for all ages — can be found in children’s stories. Catherine Williams’s methodology show you how.
There’s Never Enough Time, Money or Light: What ACTUALLY Happens to Your Script When It’s Filmed
A session unlike any other offered anywhere – witness the journey of your words become reality.
The Real Power Players: Secrets from the Industry Frontline
The gatekeepers tell all Assistants and staffers reveal how scripts really make it from the inbox to the green light
The Working Actor: Your Champion In Front of the Camera with panelists TBC
Meet the actors who help launch writing careers – and learn what makes them say “yes” to emerging talent
Reframing the Lens: The Female Gaze in Contemporary Storytelling with Maureen Hascoet & Guests
Beyond gender-flipping: exploring how the female gaze is revolutionizing screen narrative
Inside the Drama Factory: What Producers Really Want
Get the unfiltered truth about what makes producers champion a script
No Money, No Problem: Writing the Low-Budget Blockbuster with Fenella Greenfeld
Discover how to write, shoot, and deliver a feature film for under £40k – without compromising on quality
Crafting Stories That Shape Young Hearts & Minds with Catherine Williams, Kate Scott, and Addy Farmer
From pre-school to tween TV – master the art of creating content that entertains, engages, and endures
The Heart of Your Script: Mastering Your Screenplay’s Middle Act with Ted Wilkes & Philip Hughes
Navigate the treacherous middle stretch of your screenplay with LSF All-Stars Phil & Ted
Breaking In & Breaking Through: From Spec to Success with Henry Fitzherbert & Lisa McMullin
Industry veterans reveal the real pathways from aspiring writer to paid professional
Beyond Our Reality: Creating Compelling Alternate Worlds
Master the art of building and navigating multiple realities in science fiction
20 Essential Secrets to Transform Your Scripts & Your Career with Philip Shelley
Ten craft revelations. Ten career breakthroughs. One unmissable class.
Kira-Anne Pelican // Character Development Expert & Author
Kira-Anne Pelican blends psychology and screenwriting to help writers create deeper, more compelling characters for film and television.
Fiona Gilles // My SMASH Media
Fiona Gillies worked extensively in Film & TV as an actor before becoming an independent film producer and, along with Christine Hartland and Mahesh Ramachandra, one of the co-founders of My SMASH Media.
Christine Hartland // My SMASH Media
Christine Hartland is an independent film producer and co-founder of My SMASH Media.
Tammy Riley-Smith // Senior Screenwriting Tutor at NFTS & Award-Winning Filmmaker
Tammy Riley-Smith shapes new screenwriting talent while crafting award-winning films that span from Working Title classics to independent features.
Peter Harness // Television Writer & Screenwriter
Peter Harness creates boundary-pushing television from sci-fi epics to literary adaptations, with credits spanning Doctor Who, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, and the psychological space thriller Constellation.
Ted Wilkes // Screenwriter, Author, and Trainer
Ted Wilkes is a genre fiction and feature writer whose screenplay “Fulfilment” is under option at BAFTA-nominated Ardimages UK and in development with Stigma Films.
Phil Hughes // Screenwriter and Author
Phil is a screenwriter whose work spans film and TV, with two feature films and several television credits under his belt. He’s also the co-author of ‘Character is Structure: The Insider’s Guide to Screenwriting’.
Thandi Lubimbi // Screenwriter and Author
Thandi Lubimbi is a screenwriter, author and barrister, and towering voice in the campaign for DEI in creative industries
Shanna Martens // Development Executive at Little Island Productions
Shanna is a development executive at Carnival Films with a decade of development experience across film and television
The Creative Heart: Writing from Deep Intuition with Lucy van Smit
Discover how to tap your hidden creative powers and write from a place of authentic instinct and flow.
Lucy van Smit // Writer and Broadcaster
Lucy van Smit is an award-winning author, artist, and former documentary arts producer with a career spanning NBC News and Canadian Broadcasting.
12:30 Extended Lunch Break // Networking
Extended lunch break while one session continues to run.
22:00 Online Festival Day Two Close
Whooooaaahhh! What an EPIC WEEKEND! Join us for the celebrations as we conclude the LondonSFW365 Online Festival Launch 2025!
21:00 Online Festival Day One Close
OK it’s been an EPIC day… buckle up as day two is headed right for us!
Venetia Hawkes // Author, Script Editor & Executive Producer
Venetia Hawkes is the author of ‘We Have Some Notes… The Insider’s Guide to Notes, Script Editing and Development’ and Executive Producer for Masterclasses & Bridge to Industry films at the National Film and Television School (NFTS)
18:00 Write Fast. Hook Hard. Get Watched. Writing Vertical Drama That Sells with Isabel Dréan.
In this one-hour seminar, produced screenwriter and digital visionary Isabel Dréan demystifies the craft, structure, and business of vertical series, drawing directly from her #1 VIGLOO series The Blind Bride of the Scarred Mafia Boss and her proven system, How to Write a Vertical Series in 10 Days.
15:00 Manifesting Success in 2026, However YOU Define It, with Linda Paige
Buckle up buttercup for what promises to be THE kick ass session of the festival, with Linda Paige.
20:00 The Screenwriting Ten Commandments Of Chris and Bob
In this session we will share the top ten, the commandments if you will, for success in the screenwriting industries. Not rules. More principles. Flexible guides that inspire. Each and every one of them will nudge you closer to success, sharpen your screenwriting toolkit, expand your network and elevate your personal reputation.
19:00 Writing for the Media of 2026: No Gatekeepers, No Limits with Glenn Gers
The rules of storytelling have changed, and for writers, that’s very good news.
Isobel Collingwood // Development Assistant at Little Island Productions
‘What I value most about working at Little Island is the exposure to untold stories that are both evocative and charming. I’m generally drawn to contemporary TV series that get your heart racing, but for me, it’s all about light and shade. I also love dramas inspired by true events, but if the characters feel authentic and have heart, I’m all in.’
Jack Zhang // Founder & CEO of Greenlight Coverage
Jack Zhang harnesses artificial intelligence to revolutionize script development and analysis for the film and television industry.
Corey Mandell // Screenwriting Instructor & Award-Winning Writer
Corey Mandell empowers screenwriters through innovative creative techniques, mentoring talent behind some of Hollywood’s biggest shows and films.
Podcast Ep015: Writing Short Horror and The Amazing Benefits, Twisted50 Success Stories
The Power of Community and Creative Growth: Insights from the Twisted50 Horror Writing Project, with writers Leo Reobertson from Norway, and Eimear Kilcullen from Ireland
Podcast Ep014: Diversity in Film and TV, with Marcus Ryder MBE (Recorded at Make It Reel)
Unpacking Marcus Ryder’s Game-Changing Speech on Diversity in Creative Industries
Zack Fox // Associate Producer Pistachio Pictures
Highly experienced Associate Producer while coordinating the company’s production and development slates, working across a diverse collection of film and television projects.
Maureen Hascoet // Filmmaker and Scottish Screenwriters Festival Founder
She has made movies, run festivals, worked with the biggest names and is on a mission to platform the Scottish grass roots film industry.
Philip Shelley // Script Development Executive and Producer
Philip Shelley has spent three decades shaping British television through script development and writer mentorship as leader of the prestigious Channel 4 screenwriting course.
Kate Scott // Head Writer, Scriptwriter, and Children’s Author
Kate Scott is a versatile creative force in children’s entertainment, working for major networks including Disney, Netflix, and CBeebies.
Simon van der Borgh // Screenwriter, Teacher, and Script Consultant
A veteran screenwriter, educator, book author and script consultant with a 30-year career spanning multiple continents.
Steve Thompson // Screenwriter and Playwright
Currently, Steve is working on the Apple TV thriller “Prime Target” starring Leo Woodhall and developing the Guy Ritchie series “Young Sherlock” for Amazon.
Katja Meier // Screenwriter and Producer
Katja Meier is a screenwriter and producer who founded Zenka Films to challenge industry ageism and create opportunities for women over 50 in film and television.
Georgina Boote // Television Development Executive
Georgina Boote is a television development executive with experience at the BBC, Euston Films, See Saw Films and more.
Fenella Greenfield // Filmmaker, Writer, and Script Development Executive
Founder member of Euroscript, writer/director of two films, and award-winning radio drama writer.
Addy Farmer // Children’s Author and Screenwriter
Award-winning children’s author who has books with Walker, Random House, and Hachette. Her latest series explores ecological themes through children’s fascination with the icky.
Let the Storytelling Begin! Festival Opening With Chris Jones
Ignite your creative spirit as we launch into three extraordinary days of craft, connections, and opportunities.
Festival Close with Chris Jones: Launching Your 2025 Success Story
Convert your festival momentum into unstoppable creative energy for the year ahead!
Full Throttle: The Ultimate Saturday Night Networking Party
An unforgettable night of celebration, networking, and creative chemistry!
Friday Night Networking Party
It’s time to unwind and have some fun with your fellow delegates!
Thursday Night Networking and Kick-Off Party
Launch your festival experience with a night of connections, conversations, and creative energy!
#FindingYourAudience in the Digital Age by Don McVey
The creative journey can be a lonely road. After spending two years crafting my debut novel “Karakorum” – a 90,000-word labor of love – I’ve learned some hard truths about storytelling in the digital age that I believe resonate with writers of all kinds.
The Nutshell Technique: Transform Your Screenplay from Situation to Story with Jill Chamberlain
Master the groundbreaking story structure method that helped shape an Oscar-winning screenplay.
Philip Dodds // Lumo TV Drama Commissioner & Writer-Producer
Tom Vaughan is a veteran screenwriter with nearly thirty years of industry experience, writing for major studios including Warner Brothers, Sony Pictures, Disney, and Castle Rock Entertainment.
Jill Chamberlain // Screenwriting Expert and Author
Jill Chamberlain is a renowned screenwriting instructor and consultant, and author of the acclaimed book “The Nutshell Technique: Crack the Secret to Successful Screenwriting.” Her innovative story structure method has been adopted by major institutions including Columbia University and UCLA, and has been translated into multiple languages.
Podcast Ep013: How to Navigate the Screenwriting Journey, Lessons from a Master with Rowan Joffé at LondonSWF
The path to creating a compelling screenplay isn’t just about putting words on paper – it’s about falling head over heels in love with your story. That’s one of the key takeaways from an enlightening masterclass with screenwriter Rowan Joffe.
Shirani Le Mercier // Producer & Founder Spring Time Films
Looking for Action Adventure, Thriller, Family/Family Fantasy and Animation.
Saturday Night at the Movies: SPEED Script To Screen with Graham Yost
Pop quiz, Hot Shot! There’s a film on a bus. The writer is coming to LSF to discuss it while it screens. What do you do? What do you do?
TV Series Pitch Clinic with John Yorke
Pitch your television series to the master storyteller behind “Life on Mars,” “Shameless,” and “Wolf Hall” – and transform your show concept on the spot.
The Pitch Doctor Is In: Live Feature Film Pitch Clinic with Joey Tuccio
Step up, pitch your feature, and get instant expert feedback to sharpen your presentation and hook Hollywood.
Speed Networking: 50 Minutes, 20 Connections, Endless Possibilities!
Skip the small talk and dive into meaningful conversations in our high-energy matchmaking mixer for creatives.
The Pitch Factor: Your 45-Second Shot at Glory!
Got nerve, a killer script, and a fiver? Step into our high-stakes pitching arena where speed meets swagger – and only one walks away with the cash!
Chris von Daehne // Creative Executive at Envision Entertainment
Creative Executive at Envision Entertainment, a London-based production company focused on creating premium scripted series and films with global appeal.
Samantha Horley // Writer and Script Consultant
Sam has 20 years’ experience in international film sales, development, production and marketing. Credits include Executive Producer on Grabbers, Miss You Already.
Jo Southwell // Director, Aston Productions
Jo Southwell is an award-winning director known for her ability to evoke emotion and bring scripts to life with distinctive pacing and powerful performances.
Graham Smith // Producer and Creative TV Consultant
Graham brings extensive industry experience as a former commissioning editor for Comedy & Entertainment at both Channel 4 and Channel 5.
Martin Stocks // Screenwriter and Head of Narrative at Fusebox Games
Martin Stocks is an award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker with multiple television and film projects in development.
May Gibson // Television Producer and Development Executive
May Gibson is a seasoned producer and development executive with extensive experience across drama, comedy, and children’s programming for both UK and US markets.
Vadim Jean // Writer, Producer, and Director
Vadim Jean is a versatile filmmaker with over three decades of experience across feature films, television, and commercials.
Steve Kaplan // Comedy Expert and Writing Instructor
Steve Kaplan is one of the industry’s most respected comedy experts and author of the bestselling “The Hidden Tools of Comedy” and “The Comic Hero’s Journey: Serious Story Structure for Fabulously Funny Films.”
005 Advanced Mentoring Script Lab: The Science of Funny, Advanced Comedy Writing with Steve Kaplan
Steve Kaplan is a renowned comedy expert and author, specializing in screenwriting, with decades of experience in the film industry.
004 Advanced Mentoring Script Lab: The Ten Year Overnight Success, Strategies and Tactics for Breaking Through with Lisa McMullin
Lisa McMullin is a talented screenwriter known for her engaging scripts and work on award-winning drama series.
Daniel-Konrad Cooper // Producer and Founder of Rather Good Films Ltd
Daniel-Konrad Cooper is an accomplished producer with ten theatrically-released features and two films in post-production. His career path includes significant studio experience as
Kate Cook // Producer and Co-Founder of Indefinite Films
Kate Cook is the co-founder of Bristol-based Indefinite Films, recently selected as one of Channel 4’s emerging indies and PACT’s Future 30. Her
Pat Higgins // Independent Filmmaker and Screenwriter
Pat Higgins is an acclaimed writer/director known for his indie films, creative expertise, and proven filmmaking success.
003 Advanced Mentoring Script Lab: Produce Yourself II: The Sequel with Pat Higgins and Marcus Markou
Pat Higgins & Marcus Markou, indie film veterans, teach you to take control of your creative destiny from script to screen.
Judith Bunting // Producer and Screenwriter
Judith Bunting is a screenwriter with a flair for captivating narratives, whose work builds on 15years directing documentaries, producing series, and running creative teams for BBC Factual.
Alex Lightman // Producer/Director at Good Gate Media
Alex Lightman, producer/director at Good Gate Media, is passionate about innovative genre stories that push storytelling boundaries.
002 Advanced Mentoring Script Lab: From Slush Pile to Sold, The Must-Have Script Lab with Scott Myers
From Scott Myers, creator of “Go Into The Story” and industry veteran: Learn to craft scripts that sell in this intensive lab, designed to meet what execs truly want.
Pilar Alessandra // Script Consultant and Writing Instructor
Pilar Alessandra is a renowned Hollywood script consultant and author of “The Coffee Break Screenwriter.” She is also a LondonSWF Legend and considered Royalty to us!
Join us FREE for the London Screenwriters ONLINE Festival March 29th and 30th
March 29th and 30th, we are hosting a TWO-DAY Screenwriters Online Festival and YOU can attend completely free.
Lauren Pizzicaroli // Script Consultant and Festival Strategist
Elevate your script’s potential with Lauren Pizzicaroli: expert consulting, festival strategy, and insider industry insight to help you succeed.
001 Advanced Mentoring Script Lab: The Irresistible Logline with Bob Schultz
Get your script pitch-perfect with Bob Schultz – 20 years of industry expertise, personalized guidance, and the tools you need to turn executives’ ‘maybe’ into ‘send it to me!’
John Yorke // Consultant, Course Director (Into The Story), Narrative Expert
Discover the UK’s leading story expert, John Yorke, creator of Into the Woods and mentor to Emmy and BAFTA winners. Gain valuable insights into great storytelling.
Alexei Slater // VP Operations and Development
Alexei Slater, VP of Operations & Development, has a history with major films & awards, specializing in groundbreaking storytelling.
Welcome to the new LondonSWF website
Well, I have finally done it. LondonSWF has a new website, built on 100% new technology and architecture. It has been akin to the deadline from hell, trip to the dentist, or bedtime for my boy after a marathon in Fortnite gaming session. Unwanted but absolutely needed.
Izzy Power // Presenter & Writer
Izzy Power is an Australian presenter, writer & advocate for neurodiverse creatives.
Marcus Markou // Independent Filmmaker and Distributor
Marcus Markou is a writer, director, and producer known for his innovative indie films and empowering emerging filmmakers.
Michael Arndt // Oscar-winning Screenwriter
Join Academy Award-winning screenwriter Michael Arndt (“Little Miss Sunshine,” “Toy Story 3”) as he shares insights from his journey behind iconic films.
Scott Myers // Screenwriter, Blogger, and Educator
Scott Myers, screenwriter with 30+ Hollywood credits, best-selling author of The Protagonist’s Journey, and host of GoIntoTheStory, inspires writers globally.
Henry Fitzherbert // Screenwriter and Journalist
Henry Fitzherbert co-wrote Netflix’s Wyatt Earp And The Cowboy War, a global hit, and penned record-breaking films like Born A King.
Hayley McKenzie // Development Executive and Script Training Pioneer
Hayley McKenzie, CEO of Script Angel, empowers writers globally, bridging talent to industry with 30+ years of expertise.
Joey Tuccio // CEO & Co-Founder of Roadmap Writers
Joey Tuccio, CEO of Roadmap Writers, has helped 380+ writers break into the industry, securing deals with top agencies like CAA and projects with Warner Bros., Netflix, and Hulu.
Jason Headley // Filmmaker and Screenwriter
Jason Headley, co-writer of Pixar’s Lightyear & Onward, creates award-winning films across mulitple platforms and viral content for brands like Heineken and Sony.
Vicki Jung // Script Editor
Vicki, a freelance script editor with 25+ years’ experience, develops feature films for UK and global markets.
Graham Yost // Emmy Award-winning Writer, Showrunner, and Producer
From “Speed” to “Silo,” Emmy-winner Graham Yost crafts genre-defining hits that revolutionize both the big and smaller screens.
Steve Harper // Television Writer, Playwright and Storyteller
As an actor turned writer, Harper brings a unique perspective to storytelling, having appeared in numerous television shows including “Law & Order SVU,” “90210,” and “Rescue Me.”
18:00 Trip to the Moon: How Stories Shape Power, Truth, and the World with John Yorke
What gives stories their extraordinary power, and how can that power be used responsibly?
16:00 The Divided Woman: A New Story Map for Female Characters with Stacey Simmons
Why do traditional story structures so often fail female protagonists?
20:00 The Seven Elements of a Killer Story with Erik Bork
Multiple Emmy-winning writer Erik Bork reveals why great scripts succeed or fail at the idea stage, and how to build a story premise the industry can’t ignore.
21:00 Perfect Your Pitch: Making Industry Connections That Count with Joey Tuccio
Want to know what really makes industry executives say “yes”? Join Joey Tuccio, the connection catalyst behind 400+ writer success stories, for an insider’s guide to pitching your project and building relationships that lead to real opportunities.
13:45 Blast Off Day Two!
Join Chris and Bob as we light the blue touch paper of day two and set the countdown ticking!
17:00 Writing Ethical Sex & Violence In Your Screenplays with Lucy V Hay
Sex and violence are powerful storytelling tools, but only when used with intention. In this one-hour workshop, script editor Lucy V Hay (Bang2write) explores how smart writers move beyond shock value, titillation, or lazy brutality to create scenes that are ethical, purposeful, and dramatically meaningful.
15:00 Why Sally Wainwright Is So Fucking Brilliant, with Eleanor Greene
Acclaimed producer Eleanor Greene explores the work of British screenwriting icon Sally Wainwright, unpacking the creative choices, storytelling instincts, and career decisions that have made her one of the UK’s most successful and beloved writers.
16:00 Truth, Tension, and the Drama in the Everyday: Meet Sally Wainwright
Exploring the craft, courage, and characters behind Britain’s most compelling screen dramas. Unmissble.
How to deliver a winning pitch: notes from Make it Reel
I’ve never pitched in front of a room full of people before. I’m a reasonably confident public speaker but this was something different – I was actually shaking! And … I won!
13:30 Online Festival Opening
Join the online LondonSWF opening event and get primed to have the most outstanding weekend as well as prepare for knockout main festival in April. Find out EXACTLY what is happening, when and where and how best to use this unique opportunity.
Julian Friedmann // Literary Agent and Publisher
Julian Friedmann, co-owner of Blake Friedmann Literary Agency, mentors screenwriters and authors, shaping TV and film careers worldwide.
Lisa McMullin // Television and Film Screenwriter
Lisa McMullin, award-winning writer of Death in Paradise and Hear Me Roar, crafts impactful stories for film, TV, and audio.
Shari Simpson // Screenwriter and Author
Shari Simpson, screenwriter of 1% Better and The Swap, crafts hit films and books, with projects at Netflix and Hallmark Channel.
Kim Hudson // Author, Storyteller, and Archetype Theorist
Kim Hudson, creator of the Virgin’s Promise framework, challenges storytelling norms with her unique approach to feminine narratives.
Catherine Williams // Children’s TV Series Creator and Screenwriter
Catherine Williams, BAFTA-winning screenwriter, has crafted iconic kids’ TV shows like Pocoyo and Shaun the Sheep, with Piggy Builders premiering in 2025.
Elinor Perry-Smith // Writer, Poet, Proofreader, Editor
Elinor, a talented writer, poet, and editor, serves as a mentor at Talent Campus and judges top script awards.
Neil Thompson // Producer at Fat Pictures
Neil Thompson, Producer at Fat Pictures, seeks passionate writers for thrilling and comedic feature films and TV series.
Luke Foster // Development Executive at Iron Box Films
Luke, a screenwriter and Development Exec at Iron Box Films, creates award-winning films and TV scripts focused on compelling, character-driven stories.
Bryony Cunningham // Executive Producer at Little Island Productions
Bryony Cunningham, Executive Producer at Little Island Productions, develops award-winning scripted comedy & drama.
What Actors, Directors and Script Editors ACTUALLY Do With Your Finished Screenplay… Script Edit Live
Live and dynamic script redraft, edit, slash and burn… Only for the brave writers! Scripts must be submitted in advance.
Lucy V Hay // Script Editor and Author
Lucy V. Hay, script editor, author, and Bang2write blogger, helps writers craft sellable stories for film, TV, and digital media.
Chris Jones // LSF Founder, Filmmaker, Author
Chris Jones, Splinter Unit Director on Mission: Impossible 7 & 8, is an award-winning filmmaker, author, and creative mentor empowering storytellers worldwide.
Bob Schultz // Writer, Producer and Instructor
Bob Schultz is a screenwriter, producer, and 20-year instructor & mentor, known for his work on four produced films, dozens of screenplays, and as an educator worldwide.
Podcast Ep012: Inside The Making Of Twisted50 Vol.3, A Horror Anthology Journey
Ever wondered what it takes to put together a horror anthology? Well, the recent chat between Chris Jones and Kate Bemis, the masterminds behind Twisted50 Vol.3, gives us a fascinating peek behind the curtain.
