Sessions LondonSWF 2021

Sessions will be added throughout the Summer of 2021.

Over the three days of the London Screenwriters’ Festival we will run over one hundred seminars, workshops and networking events for professional screenwriters. We film most sessions, so if you miss one, or two clash, you’ll be able to catch up later online. For updates about the festival, sign up below.

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"LSF puts screenwriters, often overlooked, in the spotlight - It showcases our talented screenwriters as well as nurturing new vibrant voices."

Amanda Harper, Writer & Filmmaker

Now Available to Watch On LSFConnect!

The Courage To Continue with Pen Densham

As we set off to continue our writing – and maintaining our supportive community – take Pen’s advice with you.

The Journey Ahead with Karol Griffiths

It’s Closing Time for the festival, and beloved LSF superstar Karol Griffiths is here to give you her blessing for whatever comes next. A creative journey has been undertaken by all of us, and who better to stoke that spark than Karol?

Top Ten Festival Lessons

It’s been a wild festival – returning to the live stage, returning to the online space, the information and inspiration from so many guests. Join Chris and Bob as they reminisce about the highlights from a decade of the London Screenwriters’ Festival.

Becoming Superman: The Life and Writing of J. Michael Straczynski

This epic writer is here to share the wisdom he has gained (“The Complete Book of Scriptwriting,” “Becoming A Writer, Staying A Writer”) in this can’t-miss session.

Beyond The Hero's Journey with Anthony Mullins

Trish Curtin and BAFTA- and Emmy-winning Screenwriter Anthony Mullins join us all the way from Australia to talk character and story arcs, and how to find fresh, authentic stories in the messier corners of life.

Defying Expectations: In Conversation With Producer (Black Swan, Zodiac, Altered Carbon) Mike Medavoy

Hollywood Royalty isn’t easy to come by (unless you are attending the London Screenwriters’ Festival). He’s produced for Fincher, Aronofsky and so many more.

How to get low budget series on Amazon Prime: the Weegies case study

Meet Stephen Arthur & Matthew Joseph Campbell, the series creator for Weegies and Graeme Watt, the series director.

LSF Replay - A Writer’s Life: Rolling with the Punches with Lucinda Coxon

Playwright, Film and TV screenwriter and resolute envelope-pusher Lucinda Coxon shares the benefit of her experience as a writer who has carved out a reputation for going places other writers are reluctant to explore.

The Low-Budget Challenge Conclusion with Pat Higgins

In the heat of summer it began, and now, in the cool breeze of autumn, Pat returns to wrap up the challenge. How is your low-budget script? Are you ready to launch it out into the world?

The most important skill for screenwriters in future – and it’s not talent

What is self-leadership and how do you become an effective leader of yourself?

Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Fandom with Jose Molina

With a CV that reads like a greatest hits in Science-Fiction television and a generosity of spirit nearly impossible to find, Jose Molina is giving us a precious half-an-hour as he heads into the writer’s room of his latest show.

The Power of Untold Stories Lucy V Hay

The desire for stories from new perspectives has led to a demand for diverse voices. Race, gender, orientation, nationality, life experience – any and all of these life-defining traits allow stories to feel unusual. And telling them is our moral responsibility, to boot.

Young Adult Fantasy: Capturing That Youthful Audience with Debbie Moon

Debbie Moon (CBBC’s Wolfblood) joins us to chat about capturing that youthful imagination, and the specific story beats that earns you lifelong fans.

Zoom Room with Lucy V Hay

Following her session, keep the conversation going in Zoom with Lucy the Legend.

Final Draft: Advanced Tips & Tricks with Joe Wielosinski

Sure, Final Draft is the industry standard for screenwriters, but what are the hidden features that really help the pros bring their scripts to life? Joe is back to drop the knowledge on you.

LSF Replay - Race and Entertainment - Can White Write Black? with Thandi Lubimbi

How do you balance race, society and entertainment in your project? Come ready to discuss some sensitive topics, and ready to learn.

The Protagonist's Journey: An Introduction to Character-Driven Screenwriting and Storytelling with Scott Myers

Elevate your protagonists journey. Festival rockstar Scott Myers returns, JUST as his new book is released too, so expect some fanfare!

Warrior Wednesday

Supporting YOUR story! You have a great idea, You decide to write your story but the overwhelm of doubt, procrastination perhaps fear shows up? Harriet will share with you how to manage your mindset and Unleash your Warrior Within to inspire you to enjoy the process and create your passion.

Zoom Room with Scott Myers

Following his session on the Protagonist’s Journey, hop into Zoom with Scott to have your individual questions and challenges answered by the master himself.

How One British Screenwriter Broke Into Hollywood with Kat Wood

Kat Wood forged her own path and made it from London to Hollywood. In this inspirational and educational session, find out how — and what strategies you can implement in your own career.

What A Script Doctor Does with Carrie Courogen

A deep dive into the work of script doctors will cast a light on an aspect of writing often consigned to the shadows.

Writing For The Long Haul: Television For Years with Sally Abbott

How can you design your show now to build long-term success? Sally’s here to show you how.

Writing With Authenticity with Dui Jarrod

A great screenplay can only be grown from the authentic writer. Based on this philosophy, how do you access those inspirations that will make readers’ hearts soar?

Zoom Room with Linda Aronson

Once again joining us from Australia, Linda Aronson is on Zoom to answer your questions.

Embracing & Ignoring Screenwriting "Rules" with Ian Shorr

Which “rules” lead to success (if any)? Which ones should writers ignore? Ian Shorr (Inevitable) returns to talk about the closest thing there is to a guaranteed path to success.

LSF Replay - The Process To Perfection with Clive Frayne

In this invaluable session, you will learn solve the problem of endless and ineffective rewrites via Clive Frayne’s unique process-driven approach.

Writing Female Characters With Joanna Tilley and Robbie Sunderland

Fresh from the Edinburgh Festival, Joanna Tilley has the five specific and unbeatable steps to creating female characters that will leap off the page and into readers’ hearts.

A Screenwriter’s Career – Money, Agents, Guns (OK, no guns) with Jean Kitson

LSF regular and writer’s agent Jean Kitson joins us for a nuts and bolts session about how to grow and manage an actual, money-making career as a screenwriter

Conceiving And Writing The Ultimate British Television Series with Ashley Pharoah

In this day and age where British content is in demand, what can writers do to tick that box while remaining relevant to a worldwide audience? Come to this session to find out!

TV Writing Secrets: Multiple Protagonists, Serial Storylines, and More with Linda Aronson

Multi-award winning TV writer and parallel narrative guru Linda discusses insider tricks for advanced story beat construction, plus fractured storytelling.

Writing the Netflix Smash with George Kay

Following the international smash hit, Criminal, George Kay has another Netflix sensation on his hands with Lupin. What is the secret alchemy that keeps audiences returning to his shows and smashing that NEXT EPISODE button?

Zoom Room with Ashley Pharoah

Join him in Zoom for a conversation and questions that can bring your writing to the next incredible level.

Zoom Room with Jean Kitson

Now that you’ve seen her amazing session from the Live Festival, let superagent Jean Kitson answer your questions in Zoom. This is a very rare opportunity for you to get some face time with Jean. Don’t miss it!

Jumpstart Any New Script Idea with Jeff Kitchen

Jeff will demonstrate the process by spinning up a brand-new story idea on the spot. Participants should know the movie Training Day.

Think Like The Audience with Chris Gore

Spend some time with Chris Gore, professional movie fan and founder of Film Threat magazine as we discuss the pitfalls and practicalities in making fans of the audience.

Why 93% of LSF ticket-holders have zero chance of becoming paid screenwriters

Find out the biggest and irreversible change in the history of film-making and the five reasons why most aspiring screenwriters will fail to navigate this change.

The Power To Succeed Is Yours Already: Determining Your Own Destiny with Marcus Markou

This session is more than inspiration. It is about practical steps you can take to achieve your dreams. And if you don’t want that, then what are you even doing?

Write To Get Noticed with Jim Agnew

How does your writing style change when your goal is not production, but attention?

Final Draft: The Basics with Joe Wielosinski

Final Draft can help you bring your script into the world, so don’t go into the breach without everything you need to make it work for you.

Mistakes Writers Make On Page One with Shannan E. Johnson

How do you get the reader turning those pages from the very start? What common pitfalls can you avoid? Script Consultant, and Founder/CEO of The Professional Pen is here to get your script off on the front foot.

Six Questions Every Story Must Answer with Glenn Gers

With 25 years of TV (Cybill, Becker) and movie (Fracture, Disfigured, this year’s Zorro) writing experience backing him up, Glenn Gers has questions… Now your script needs to have the answers.

Being A Great Writer Is More Than Great Writing with Gary Goldstein

Hollywood producer and worldwide inspiration Gary Goldstein is back to strengthen you as a creative mastermind – not just a writer.

LSF Replay - Are You Not Entertained? In Conversation with William Nicholson

When you have the chance to be in the presence of one of the greatest of all time, you know what you do? You take that chance.

Calm the mind, relax the body and connect with your Infinite Creative Flow with Patti Good

Join me for 30 minutes of Mindful Meditation where I will help you to release stress, worry and overwhelm and connect you deeply with your creative inspiration. Leaving you feeling refreshed, renewed and inspired.

Dave Reynolds's New Groove

He’s back to discuss his newest project: a new, hilarious adaptation of GARFIELD. Come reacquaint yourself with one of the all-time best and look to his future (and yours). Our conversations with Dave always generate solid gold advice – and this session will be no different.

Zoom Room with Dave Reynolds

Always generous with his time and welcoming to all delegates, Dave can give you laser-sharp career advice or regale you with stories from Pixar, and everything in between.

LSF Replay - Mercurio: A Study In Greatness with Jed Mercurio

When you are looking for a triple threat talent, Jed Mercurio is your man. Great stories flow through his veins. Let this titan of British writing give you the inspiration and keys to greatness that have guided him his whole career.

LSF Replay - Phil and Ted Destroy Genre with Phil Hughes & Ted Wilkes

Festival favourites Phil and Ted embark on another excellent adventure into screenwriting. This time their sights set on genre.

The Screenwriter’s Journey To Success with Mark Sanderson

Mark Sanderson is here to prepare you for your own journey with the tactics developed over the past twenty years of working in the film industry.

LSF Replay - Keep Your Audience On The Edge Of Their Seats – The Killer Thriller with Rowan Joffe

We often use phrases like ‘truth bombs’ or ‘lightbulb moments’. Well, this session is going to be that, but in rapid succession, covering the art and craft of screenwriting and the business.

The Low-Budget Challenge Check-In with Pat Higgins

It’s the midpoint of the challenge, and like all midpoints, it’s time to revitalize your story with more energy and impact! Pat’s back to invigorate you and your writing.

The Screenwriting Commandments of Aaron Sorkin with Bob Schultz

For the last year, writers have learned how to elevate their writing using the strategies illustrated through the work of Aaron Sorkin. Get a glimpse into these techniques with Bob as he unveils the first 2 of the 10 Sorkin-mandments!

A Screenwriting Life… How to survive, thrive and find meaning in our work with Meg LeFauve and Lorien McKenna

Screenwriting success lives at the crossroads between heart, soul AND craft, savvy and experience. Join us at that crossroads for an inspirational and also practical session to connect us all with our WHY so we too can follow our own true path to success.

The Voice of the Writer with Pilar Alessandra

Producers and representatives say they want a writer with a strong voice and a personal style. What does this mean and how can you find your voice on the page?

The Official LSF365 PreLaunch Extravaganza!

Join Chris and Bob as they look forward to the next two weeks of fantastic content and adventures.

Zoom Room with Sean Robert Daniels, whose Nicholl Fellowship Kick-started His Career

Come and talk to him about how you can leverage competition wins to build your career, and ask him about making it in movies outside Hollywood.

Zoom Room with Henry Fitzherbert, Whose Gamble on a Mid-life Career Change Paid Off

Henry Fitzherbert has over a dozen script sales and commissions. He began his career as a film critic, before switching to screenwriting, script consulting and tutoring.

Meet the Agent… Think Outside The Box

Why screenwriters should consider turning a great unsold script into a novel and self-publish if it can’t be sold.

Zoom Room with Phil Hughes & Ted Wilkes, Oracles on the Narrative Structure of Scripts

Authors of narrative structure manual “The Beginning, the Middle and the End”, and Regents University screenwriting lecturers Phil Hughes and Ted Wilkes are passionate and relentless in the pursuit of excellent storytelling.

Characters On The Couch: Psychoanalysis Of Your Characters with Jessica Ruston

Understanding why a character does what they do is the key to unlocking character-driven scripts, and getting the audience to empathize with the darker characters in your stories.

Coming To Your Own Rescue: Just Fucking Do It with Simon Cox and Aimée Kwan

Success comes in many forms, but the successful all have one thing in common. They stopped asking others for permission to be part of the industry and went out there to forge their own paths.

How To Become A Weapons-Grade Screenwriter with Dominic Morgan

Becoming a weapons grade screenwriter starts on page 1. No script is ever sold on the strength of the first page, but sales can easily be lost that quickly. How do you fix a first page that isn’t working?

Perfect Your Written Pitch with Samantha Horley

Submit your pitch in writing, and Sam Horley will whip it into shape live on stage. Not for the faint of heart, but a guaranteed upgrade on one of the most important tools a writer has these days: A written pitch.

Who Knows Anything? The Many Shades of Subtext and Power in Dialogue with Sean Robert Daniels

Nicholl Award Winner and inspiring instructor Sean Robert Daniels returns to the LSF to guide you on the dialogue journey.

5 Pitfalls To Watch Out For In Your First Writing Contract with Julian Friedmann

Before bringing an expensive lawyer into the fray, watch out for the tricks most often used to trip writers up. Super-Agent Julian Friedmann is here to give you the map to the minefield so you know where to step.

Avoid The Pitfalls. Five Screenwriting Truths that are… well untrue with Stephen Follows

Using data- and fact-based analysis, Stephen will share what advice is based in reality and… what may FEEL correct, but has no basis in reality.

Based On A True Story: Keeping It Real & Fantastic with Ellin Stein

From a creative standpoint, there are differences between a TRUE story and a GOOD story. In this course, Ellin Stein will dig deep on how to avoid making your script read like Wikipedia.

From Spec To Screen: Script Devel The Low-Budget Masterpiece: Your Key to Self-Determined Success with Pat Higgins

We are thrilled to have Pat with us live! Whether you are participating in his 30-Day Script Challenge or not, Pat holds the key to the kingdom.

From Spec To Screen: Script Development In The World Of TV with May Gibson and Dan Berlinka

How to best navigate the waters of those who would change your beloved series? Especially when some of them control your fate?

The Laugh Machine with Aschlin Ditta

BAFTA-nominated Aschlin Ditta is here to offer advice on your writing (and your life!) to milk humor out of every situation, and leave your audience with split sides.

What audiences crave and why you should write that? with Stephen Follows

Let’s deep dive into the data that reveals what audiences crave from their movie-going experiences and how we can use this to radically improve our chances of getting produced.

Writing For Children with Tim Bain

If you seek an audience that will be devoted to your show, kids might just be where it’s at. Join us as Tim Bain gives a glimpse into inspiring the imaginations of an audience of children.

5 Questions You Really Need To Ask Yourself About That Spec Script with Richard Kurti

What boxes does your spec have to tick to break in? You might never get the chance to climb the ladder if you can’t get on the first rung. Let Richard Kurti clear the way for you in this crucial session.

Cracking Comedy with James Wood

If your comedy script is running out of petrol by act 2, you must improve your entertainment endurance. James Wood is here to tell you how.

Judgement Day for your Screenplay with Alexis Kirke

In this session, Alexis explores the vital roles that algorithms play in the modern movie and TV industry, and how a screenwriter can use knowledge of these algorithms to their advantage.

Writing For Soaps with Joe Ainsworth

Good world-building, character drama, pulpy deliciousness, and career advancement are all on tap as you break in. What’s it like in the room and how does a writer deliver for an audience who knows the characters better than their own families?

Zoom Room with Debbie Isitt whose Nativity film franchise has become a Christmas cracker!

Meet the BAFTA and EMMY award-winning filmmaker who has brightened up our Christmases with her four fun-packed, nativity-themed films: “Nativity” starring Martin Freeman (2009).

Zoom Room with Pat Higgins and Fenella Greenfield Who Will Help YOU Make Your Micro Budget Short

Are you looking to cut your teeth on making your first film and then carry on from there to build a sustainable career in filmmaking? Speak to Pat Higgins and Fenella Greenfield with your questions on how to make your micro budget short.

Zoom Room with Lisa McMullin, a Former LSF Delegate Who has Made a Career in Soaps

Lisa has written for two of the UK’s most iconic shows, “Doctors” and “Eastenders”, as well as for Jimmy McGovern’s “Moving On”.

Write A Low-Budget Movie In 30 Days with Pat Higgins

You are going to write a low budget feature film that can be made in 2022. And it’s longer than thirty days, with training from conception, through first draft and rewrites.

Zoom Room with Lucinda Coxon, Playwright, Screenwriter and Creator of Roles Actors Die For

Famed for “Herding Cats” on stage, “The Crimson Petal and the White” on TV and “The Danish Girl” on the silver screen, this is your chance to get acquainted with one of the UK’s most incisive writers.

Meet the Agent… Options and more

How to deal with a £1 option, a shopping agreement or a request to write a spec script.

Successful Networking in 2021 For The Chronically Reluctant with Amanda Graham

We focus on four main subjects: Attitudes to networking; Who to network with; How to network in person; How to network online.

Zoom Room with novelist turned star screenwriter Jessica Ruston

Come find out more about Jessica Ruston, the writer, in this unique opportunity to chat with her.

Zoom Room with Julian Wilkins

Julian has over 30 years’ experience practicing in the area of media, entertainment and intellectual property law.

Zoom Room with storytelling thought-leader and guru, Houston Howard

Chief Storyteller and Co-Founder of One 3 Creative, Houston Howard is the go-to guy on expanding story across different media.

Meet the Agent… Getting an Agent

How to get an agent, and why most scripts fail to get an agent or to sell.

Zoom Room with Simon Nye, creator 'The Durrells' and other TV smash hits

This is your chance to join an intimate roundtable with one of the kings of adaptation, award-winning author and screenwriter Simon Nye.

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The variety of sessions means that no matter which genre or medium you want to write in, there will be something to suit you."

Beverly Sanford, Screenwriter

Awaiting Schedule Confirmation For LondonSWF 2021

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I want to apply all the techniques I’ve learned here to the feature script I’m writing. It reminded me again of the journey I’m on."

Shahid Kamal, Writer, Director