Get to know the writers:

What is your screenplay about?

Log Line: Struggling with insecurity and doubt about the longevity of their relationship, an American couple travels to Iceland for answers through a unique form of therapy, threatening both their relationship and their lives. Every relationship is a leap of faith.

Synopsis: In the mesmerizing landscapes of Iceland, a disillusioned yet determined American couple, Fawn and Rabbit, embark on a desperate journey for answers to their critical relationship questions through an unconventional couple’s therapy program – HOPPA. Their path leads through a series of harrowing experiences designed to reveal their truest selves while challenging their perception of reality and their beliefs about love and life. As their experiences grow increasingly eerie and nightmarish, they struggle with their inherent differences, relentless lack of communication, and uncompromising needs of each other. Their journey culminates at the edge of a cliff, where a moment of revelation leads to chaos and unfathomable implications from their decisions throughout their HOPPA experience.

What genres does your screenplay fall under?

Psychological Thriller, Horror, Drama

Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?

The story explores relatable, honest partnership struggles as both parties navigate the possibility of compromising their individuality for a shared life together, and the depths they will go to know if their relationship is worth that risk.

How would you describe this script in two words?

Haunting polarity

What movie have you seen the most times in your life?

Nigel: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2: The Secret of the Ooze
Ashley: Can’t Hardly Wait

How long have you been working on this screenplay?

1 year, started after 2023 holiday in Europe

How many stories have you written?

4 complete; Nigel has been writing stories since he was a kid

What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)

Nigel: Modern Leper, Frightened Rabbit
Ashley: Where Is My Mind, The Pixies

What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?

Character development. The main characters are based on us and our relationship, but we did not want to make them gender specific so it was challenging to hold character continuity while intertwining our traits into both equally.

Formatting. We are new screenwriters and learning through trial and error as we go. Our story was maybe not taken as seriously as it could have been from formatting mistakes.

Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

Nigel: All forms of self-expression and creativity, travel
Ashley: Finding my best self, solving hard problems, travel

You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?

The platform site allows for additional inputs like pitch decks, social media, and audio/visual tools. Unsure at this point how much this benefits the submission.

What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?

Feedback was actionable. We could tell the reader took time to read and understand the screenplay – not AI-generated responses.

This was a well-rated festival with many success stories. The short turnaround time with multiple winners within a year was also attractive.

The killing of a teenage basketball prodigy in New York presents a life-threatening challenge for a beautiful Latina detective and her partner.

Get to know the writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?
White Chocolate is about a female detective who, along with her male partner, has to solve the killing of a high school basketball prodigy in Yonkers, New York (near New York City). Detective Erika Gonzalez is a single mom and the daughter of a cop killed in the line of duty. Her son’s father, who proved unfaithful during their relationship, has been recently released from prison. The story focuses on Erika’s resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges, as well as the unwanted attention that comes to an attractive woman who simply wants to do her job.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?
Drama, Crime, Sports.

3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?
Erika is a character who faces so many challenges in a male-dominated profession and is constantly being tested, which makes her someone worth rooting for. Also, the basketball prodigy represents the hopes and dreams of many in a city not noted for producing famous people. Many in the community live vicariously through him, making his killing difficult for them to process. Fingers are pointed in many different directions. There’s a whodunit element to the story. Those who may be able to identify the killer before the detectives may be intrigued by the lengths to which the killer tries to avoid accountability.

4. How would you describe this script in two words?
Kick-ass feminist.

5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?
Spike Lee’s classic Do The Right Thing. It was filmed in my old neighborhood, Bedford-Stuyvesant in Brooklyn, New York. Spike got Bed-Stuy (“Do or die”) just right, particularly how gentrification changed the neighborhood in the late 1980s and how businesses owned by White people served the community on the one hand but failed to reinvest in the neighborhood because they did not live there. The riot scene at the end, which included Spike’s character hurling a garbage can through the window of Sal’s Famous Pizzeria, was inevitable but no less dramatic.

6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?
Off and on for two years. Real life kept getting in the way. But largely because of how I saw Erika as a resilient, kick-ass feminist, I had to make the time to finish this screenplay and share it with as many people as possible.

7. How many stories have you written?
Two screenplays. The other is Iceman, which is about a Black hockey trailblazer in the 1995-96 National Hockey League season.
I’m also the author of four books: Breaking the Ice: The Black Experience in Professional Hockey (Insomniac Press, Toronto), the first book that told the unique stories of Black players in hockey; Call the Yankees My Daddy: Reflections on Baseball, Race, and Family; Charging the Net: A History of Blacks in Tennis from Althea Gibson and Arthur to the Williams Sisters; and Different Strokes: Serena, Venus, and the Unfinished Black Tennis Revolution. My books reside at the intersection of sports and sociology. I used to cover the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes for The News & Observer in Raleigh and the New York Rangers for Newsday in New York. The lead character in Iceman is based on Black NHL players I wrote about in Breaking the Ice.

8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)
“Up, Up, and Away” by The Fifth Dimension. The song is so hopeful, which I need in these times. There are so many occasions when I would love to get into a beautiful balloon and escape all the madness, particularly with Donald Trump back in the White House. (Sigh.)

9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?
A bad breakup with someone who thought I was turning her daughter against her. I wasn’t. I lost my motivation to write for a while. There’s no roadmap on how to overcome heartbreak. Believe me, I checked. But since my lead character in White Chocolate draws upon inner strength and resilience to get things done, how could I quit?

10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?
Sports, watching and participating. I completed the New York City Marathon in 2013, but tore a ligament in my ankle. I run shorter races now. Movies (features and documentaries). I recently enjoyed Pedro Almodovar’s The Room Next Door, Babygirl (but I consider the ending a cop out), Nickel Boys, and Conclave. I’m a documentary fan because I’ve appeared in five of them: Black Ice (hockey); Soul on Ice (hockey); Beyond Their Years (hockey, baseball); Althea & Arthur (tennis); and A Perfect Match (tennis). I’m also an avid reader. I loved James by Percival Elliott.

11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?
I found the process of entering this screenplay easy to navigate. I don’t enter too many contests, but this one focuses on women-centered scripts. We certainly need more of those to better chronicle the human experience. The more submission platforms like this one the better.

12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?
I love that there is a festival devoted to telling the stories of women. Especially women-identified women, not caricatures. I’m very happy with the initial feedback. I look forward to working with Wildsound to help me promote White Chocolate.

Get to know the writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?

Ultimately it’s about loneliness and how if can look different through grief or mental illness. Some people struggle with it and seem to function well (career, appearing ‘normal’) and others seems devastated emotionally and outwardly. Each of my main characters deal with it in different ways, but the fact is human beings need connection.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

This is a slice of life drama.

3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?

I think resilience is always something that speaks to audiences. In spite of real challenges of grief and mental illness, it’s important to own your challenges and work through them.

4. How would you describe this script in two words?

Humanely complex

5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?

It’s a toss up between The Princess Bride, Casablanca and When Harry Met Sally. At different times in my life, I could recite each of them word for word.

6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?

Several months.

7. How many stories have you written?

Short stories – dozens. Stage/screenplays – six completed/nearing completion. I am also writing a young adult fantasy book that is about 75% completed.

8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)

Laughter in the Rain by Neil Sedaka (it’s a good reminder)

9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?

I always struggle with staying true to the character. They become so real to me and I want to “fix” them. It’s important to stay real to them and whatever resolution happens, it needs to make sense for them.

10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

Although I make fun of it in the play, I’m actually a vegan. I think the world needs more kindness and it certainly needs more of a focus on global warming.

11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?

It’s been so exciting to hear my work was enjoyed. The feedback was invaluable and the entire experience has been so encouraging.

12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?

I think I’m finally feeling brave enough to have my work “out there” and I’m grateful to FilmFreeway for helping in that endeavour.

“Chrysalis” navigates the story of Deniz, an enigmatic alien who, upon arriving on Earth, assumes the form of a 20-something girl. Driven by loneliness and curiosity, she becomes captivated by the vibrant Turkish culture. Alternating between the euphoria of her love with a Turkish woman, Melisa, and the aftermath of a tragic loss caused by homophobia in modern Turkish society, the narrative weaves subtle hints alluding to Deniz’s true nature, inviting contemplation on whether she is an extraterrestrial or a representation of someone who feels like an outsider within their own country. The story delicately portrays the healing journey of both Deniz and Melisa’s grieving mother within a city so capable of profound love, yet at times challenged to extend that love to others.

Get to know the writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?

The screenplay explores what it means to love in a city like Istanbul- a place that is both beautiful and complicated. Growing up in this country (as with any country), you can find love in every corner within its people. However, there’s also a heartbreaking cycle of hate that seeps through, especially towards the LGBTQ community.

Istanbul is naturally a loving city, but the struggle to embrace all forms of love has persisted for years. This paradox inspired me to create a story that highlights the loneliness and complexity of being part of a community like this in Istanbul. Despite the hate, I believe the city is and will always be filled with love- sometimes, all it takes is a shift in perspective to see that love in its purest form is universal. My love is no different than your love.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

Chrysalis falls under romance and drama.

3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?

This screenplay touches on deeply important themes, but the beauty and complexity of Istanbul cannot fully be captured in words alone. To truly understand its essence—the contrasts between love and hate, beauty and struggle—it must be seen visually. A film would allow audiences to immerse themselves in the vibrant, raw, and emotional world of this story.

4. How would you describe this script in two words?

Unyielding love.

5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?

I’m not ashamed to say La La Land! It has a magical atmosphere, vibrant storytelling, and a beautiful love story that draws me back in every time.

6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?

About six to seven months.

7. How many stories have you written?

Unofficially, I’ve written about seven stories since I started pursuing writing seriously.

8. What is your favorite song?

Somebody to Love by Queen. There’s a bit of cheesiness and irony, but I embrace it wholeheartedly!

9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?

One of the biggest challenges was believing in myself. I struggled with confidence and went through several major drafts before finding the right one. Ultimately, I realized that I wasn’t telling this story for myself- I was telling it for my community. That shift in mindset gave me the courage to finish.

10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

When I’m not writing, I’m passionate about reading! Diving into other people’s worlds is one of my favorite ways to spend time.

11. What has been your experience working with FilmFreeway?

FilmFreeway has been a fantastic resource. It introduced me to so many festivals I never knew existed, many of which are perfect matches for Chrysalis. It’s an invaluable tool for emerging artists.

12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?

I actually submitted an earlier draft of this screenplay once before. I knew it wasn’t ready, but the feedback I received motivated me to keep improving until I felt confident in the story. This festival stood out to me because of its international reach and its celebration of LGBTQ stories- its very existence is inspiring to me.

Love Unveiled explores the collision of two different worlds. Sophie, a driven and self-centered woman, dreams of a political career in Washington, D.C., but her plans derail when her father’s gambling debts entrap her with Drago, a ruthless mafia boss in Split, Croatia. Forced into a marriage with Drago’s son, Ivan, Sophie finds herself in a world of crime and moral uncertainty.

Get to know the writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?
Love Unveiled follows Sophie, an ambitious young woman determined to build a successful political career. Her life gets derailed when she has to marry a conflicted Croatian mobster to settle her father’s gambling debt. The film explores themes of love, sacrifice, redemption, and self-discovery.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?
Romance
Crime
Drama

3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?
The screenplay offers a fresh take on the collision of two vastly different worlds. Currently, there isn’t a film similar to Love Unveiled released in the past 6 years which makes it a unique selling point. Love Unveiled explores universal themes that are compelling to the worldwide audience.

4. How would you describe this script in two words?
Unexpected destiny

5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?
The Passion of the Christ, I watch it on every Good Friday.

6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?
I got the idea in November 2023 and I wrote my 1st draft in January, so for a year more or less.

7. How many stories have you written?
I’ve written a few scenes ahead of this, but you could say this is my first real story and screenplay.

8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)
I can’t say I know the answer, I love music. Currently, it’s Les Barricades Misterieuses. A beautiful classical piano piece.

9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?
Trying to put my creative vision in the number of pages I can operate with whilst also maintaining the audience’s engagement.

10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?
I’m extremely versatile, from singing and playing instruments to working on a farm or being a firefighter.

11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?
Easy, it’s a great site to find the competitions and festivals you’re looking for and apply your project.

12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?
I entered the festival to showcase my work, but also to see if what I do is good enough for the industry. The feedback was insightful, affirming the strengths but also my doubts about the script and giving me an idea I didn’t remember before.

In ancient Israel, an aspiring stand-up comedian and self-proclaimed prophet must navigate fame, rivalries, and a mad Procurator’s wrath to save his runner-up competitor—and himself—after winning the wildly popular reality show, ‘Jerusalem Idol.’

Get to know the writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?

The screenplay is a satirical comedy set in ancient Israel, where a young wannabe stand-up comedian and self-proclaimed prophet, Yoni ben Solomon, embarks on a chaotic journey to save his family’s business and achieve fame by competing in “Jerusalem Idol,” the #1 reality show of the time. Along the way, he assembles a ragtag group of misfit disciples, confronts his fear of lepers, and battles a corrupt Roman procurator while hilariously grappling with themes of public health, power, and self-delusion.

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

Satire, Comedy, and Adventure

3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?

This screenplay is a fresh, irreverent take on historical and religious themes, blending absurdity with modern parallels that critique societal issues like medical tyranny, blind faith in authority, and the dangers of ego. Its unique premise, comedic tone, and topical themes make it a film that can entertain while sparking meaningful conversations about freedom, dissent, and individuality.

4. How would you describe this script in two words?

Hilariously subversive.

5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?

It’s a Wonderful Life

6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?

On and off for about 10 years.

7. How many stories have you written?

Two screenplays, Two Musicals and Approximately 200 Songs

8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)

She Loves You by the Beatles

9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?

Originally conceived as a straightforward satire of fame and ambition, the pandemic brought new relevance to themes of public health, authority, and societal control. I found myself reworking the script to incorporate these parallels, exploring the absurdities of blind trust in institutions, the clash between dissent and conformity, and the concept of “safety” as a tool for compliance. Balancing these heavier undertones with the humor and irreverence of the original concept was challenging but ultimately gave the screenplay a sharper satirical edge.

10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

Medical Freedom; Songwriting

11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?

A good way to find out about new contests.

12. What influenced you to enter the festival?

I felt I had a stronger chance since the festival’s focus is strictly on comedy.

The untold true story of Phil Leonetti, the youngest underboss in mafia history, and how he brought down the mob. Set in one of the most brutal eras of the Philadelphia Crime Family, young Phil Leonetti rose through the ranks to become second-in-command to his uncle, Nicodemo “Little Nicky” Scarfo, and eventually turned government witness. His cooperation turned convictions against his own family, John Gotti, Vincent Gigante, and countless others. The downfall of La Cosa Nostra as it was began with Phil Leonetti.

Get to know the writer:

1. What is your screenplay about?

Philadelphia Crime Family in the 1980s (I’ll expand on this)

2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?

Crime/Thriller

3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?

It has not been done before, in any capacity, and there is an audience for this kind of work. It’s an untapped story with incredible potential

4. How would you describe this script in two words?

Untold and engrossing

5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?

The Godfather

6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?

7 months

7. How many stories have you written?

Three full-feature screenplays, over 100 short sketch comedy skits

8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)

Let It Be by The Beatles

9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?

Cutting out the fat and really keeping the story concise without missing any important events pertinent to the story

10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

podcasting, music, environmentalism. religion/spirituality

11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?

It’s been fantastic. The streamlining and functionality are great

12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?

I am trying to get this script produced, and am getting out to as many meaningful festivals as possible.