Words Across Europe is co-funded by the European Union and Wide Eye Films and will provide participants access to top industry experts…
The first writers’ room training initiative using virtual reality from Dublin-based production company Wide Eye Films and co-funded by the European Union, is calling on screenwriters to apply before submissions close next week (April 29th).
Nathalie Lichtenthaeler, founder of Words Across Europe and CEO of Dublin-based production company Wide Eye Films:
“This totally immersive experience uniquely replicates a real world writer’s room to enable creatives to brainstorm, share ideas, and learn from each other and a range of experts,” said . “There’s been strong interest from writers across the continent but the deadline for the last few places is fast approaching, “
Successful applicants will be provided with VR headsets and €1,000 for taking part, and will be guided through the writers’ room process and the complexities of the international series market. The programme also offers a deep understanding of the broader industry landscape to give participants the knowledge and confidence to navigate successful series writing for television, culminating in the opportunity for the writers to pitch their created series concept to stakeholders.
Nathalie Lichtenthaeler:
“Introducing Virtual Reality into our writers’ rooms is a groundbreaking step for creative collaboration across Europe,” said Robert Franke, Vice President Drama, ZDF Studios and one of the experts involved. “By transcending physical boundaries, we’re opening up a world of possibilities for our writers to connect and create. I’m thrilled to see the innovative ways this technology will enhance our storytelling process.”
Renowned industry experts now confirmed to participate in the programme include Christiane Ruff (Managing Director, ITV Studios Germany), René Jamm (Producer, Warner Bros International Television Production), Maria Cervera (Head of Content, Cattleya Producciones), Laura Andrews (Commercial Director, UK Drama, ITV Studios), Brian Tannenbaum (Head of Originals, Roku Media) and Robert Franke (Vice President Drama, ZDF Studios).
Also lined up are Steve Matthews (Content Partnership Executive, Banijay), Morad Koufane (Head of International Scripted Series, France Télévisions), Andre Bormanis (Writer/Producer Star Trek, Cosmos, The Orville), Alexandra Finlay (A+E, Vice President, Scripted International Co-Productions), Malin Nevander (Head of Development, SVT Drama), Frank Tönsmann (Commissioning Editor, WDR), Cosima von Spreti (Head of Co-Finance and Co-Production, LEONINE), Eilish Kent (Story Consultant, Lecturer at the National Film School, IADT), Joachim Friedman (Writer and Professor Serial Storytelling, ifs internationale filmschule köln) and Jonathan Young (Executive Producer, May One).
Nathalie Lichtenthaeler (Producer, Wide Eye Films and founder, Words Across Europe) will curate and produce the sessions.
Christiane Ruff, Managing Director at ITV Studios Germany:
“I am deeply convinced that writing and creating in a team is the best way to come up with great storytelling and unique ideas. And now, with all new technical possibilities, it’s even more exciting! No boundaries, free flow of creativity – the sky’s the limit – at least for the time being!”
Andre Bormanis, Writer and Producer:
“In my thirty years working as a television writer and producer, I’ve learned that one of the most important keys to a successful series is a well functioning writers room. New communication technologies, including virtual rooms, offer the potential to expand the scope of this cooperative and interactive creative endeavor beyond the borders of cities and even countries. It is an exciting time to be a television writer indeed.”
The programme runs over nine weeks, starting on May 20th. The application deadline is Monday 29th April at 12 noon CET with interviews scheduled on Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th May. Successful applicants will be notified by Monday 13th May. For further information on the programme and to apply, please visit www.wordsacrosseurope.eu
