From Script to Pitch - Screenwriting Retreat in Italy: 3rd Edition
This is the 3rd edition of a 7-day immersive retreat in a hidden gem coastal town in Calabria, South of Italy, designed to transform story ideas from initial development into polished pitches, ready to present to executives and markets, all while embracing the principles of slow productivity.
MEET YOUR MENTORS
SPECIAL GUEST MENTOR - EVANGELINE LILLY
We are beyond thrilled to welcome back Evangeline Lilly, acclaimed actress, author, and humanitarian, as a Special Guest Mentor for our inaugural Screenwriting Retreat!
Evangeline is celebrated for her unforgettable roles in Lost, The Hobbit, and as the fearless Wasp in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. But her creative journey goes far beyond acting. As the author of The Squickerwonkers and a passionate storyteller, Evangeline brings a unique approach to her craft, blending mindfulness and spirituality.
Throughout the retreat, Evangeline will share her remarkable experiences and insights,
inspiring participants to unlock their creativity and bring greater authenticity into their work. We are truly honored to have her spend the week with us!
✔ Personalized mentorship & career-changing guidance by:
SARA FURIO - Studio Executive & Pitch Mentor
Sara spent nearly a decade building Netflix's international efforts, from Hollywood to Bollywood and London to Rome. As a studio executive, she spearheaded the development and greenlighting of international original films that captivated diverse audiences, secured coveted spots on Netflix's Most Popular Films (Non-English) list, and garnered Oscar nominations. Before her time at Netflix, Sara gained valuable experience at Warner Bros. and worked as a skilled video editor.
ALEX KENDALL - Screenwriter and Script mentor
Alex is a screenwriter from the UK, currently writing two feature films for Netflix including a project for Oscar-winning director Edward Berger. In 2024 he was also selected for Netflix's marquee talent development scheme 'Grow Creative' and was subsequently commissioned for the project he developed within that scheme. Elsewhere in features, he has written WW2 spy thriller Spikern for Baltasar Kormákur to direct this year with Good Chaos producing - and is currently adapting the acclaimed debut novel Metronome for Archery Pictures, as well as writing an original psychological thriller for Daniel Brühl to direct as his sophomore feature. In television, Alex is the lead writer for a six-part adaptation of Jessikka Aro's international bestseller Putin's Trolls which is now in late-stage development with Onerva Pictures, Hummelfilm, and KJ Entertainment. Previously Alex has worked in writers' rooms for Joe Cornish (Lockwood & Co.), in script development for DNA Films & TV, across shows such as Shōgun and Black Narcissus, as well as films Far from the Madding Crowd, Ex_Machina and T2: Trainspotting. And he worked as a story editor on a slate of features for Netflix including All Quiet on the Western Front, Society of the Snow, Munich: The Edge of War, Troll, and Against the Ice, as well as gaining a 'story by' credit on German- language hit Faraway.
DR. JAKE- Psychologist & character development expert
Dr. Jake brings a wealth of experience as a clinical psychologist specializing in the entertainment industry in more ways than one, collaborating with top film studios and production houses. From Hollywood to the global stage, he works with leaders at every level, ensuring that mental well-being is prioritized from script to screen while consulting on film and TV projects with complex characters, whether in development with writers or directors and on-screen talent during production.
Location
Monasterace Marina, Italy offers the perfect environment for creative inspiration. With its stunning views of both the sea and the mountains, this picturesque village embodies the best of authentic Italian life. It's a place where the pace slows down, allowing creative minds to focus and immerse fully in their work.
"There aren't enough words to describe how the retreat itself felt like a dream I didn't even know I had. Every aspect of it felt like magic, like it belonged just out of reach, but I was still in it. Present, active, belonging." - Analuisa Vasconcellos
The blend of culture, natural beauty, and traditional Italian lifestyle makes it the ideal setting for writers, filmmakers, and artists seeking a peaceful, yet inspiring retreat, away from touristic areas.
Duration: 7 days
Participants: 15 International Screenwriters
Language: English
Retreat Preliminary Structure:
Day 0 – Arrival & Orientation
Day 1 - Script Mentorship & First Pitch Session
Day 2 - Script Mentorship & Second Pitch Session
Day 3 – 1:1 meetings
Day 4 – Pitching Masterclasses
Day 5 - Final Pitch
Day 6 - Weekly recap
Day 7 - Departures
All activities are thoughtfully designed and carefully balanced to provide participants with masterclasses and personalized mentorship, while ensuring ample time to focus on their individual projects. The program fosters a natural, unhurried pace, helping participants engage deeply without feeling overwhelmed.
"It was all organized with such passion and care. I loved the small gifts and small details that made the participants feel special. My biggest takeaway was to meet people with similar passion, meet them personally. The interactions we had among both tutors and other writers within the week created a very special space which is hard to put in words." - Hanno Parksepp
In addition to learning activities, the retreat experience is enhanced by authentic interactions with Italian culture and lifestyle, set in a location that naturally embodies the principles of slow tourism, a deep respect for nature, and cherished traditions all thoughtfully organized by us.
✔ A NOTE FROM THE FOUNDERS
Dear screenwriters,
As filmmakers ourselves, we understand how challenging it is to push a project forward in today's industry. From crafting a compelling story to developing essential tools like pitch decks, elevator pitches, and visual materials, the process can feel overwhelming.
That's why we created this immersive 7-day retreat, a hands-on experience designed to
give you not just storytelling insights, but also the tools and guidance to pitch, present, and
sell your project effectively. We specifically designed this retreat with hand-selected
mentors, curated activities, and special guest speakers to offer you an experience that
blends creativity, productivity, and mindfulness in a place that means so much to us.
From Script to Pitch is an immersive Italian experience, set in Calabria, far from the usual
destinations like Tuscany, where you'll find fresh inspiration, new connections, and an
intimate, supportive environment.
With only 15 participants, you'll have the opportunity to test your ideas, receive tailored
feedback, and build lasting industry relationships, all without the pressure of a public
pitch. We can't wait to welcome you to Calabria and work together to see your stories
come to life.
See you there!
Francesca & Francesco
More Testimonials:
“Everything was perfect. Thank you for a fun, learning, adventurous, and exciting time!” - Emma Gover
“Thank you so very much for the wonderful event you arranged. It greatly exceeded our
expectations. We know it would have taken much effort by both of you, and you deserve to
feel proud of the result. It was a pleasure to meet all the other participants. They taught us
much as they shared their experiences and projects. We already miss their company and
wish that everybody did not live so far apart. - Connie Romeo
Only 15 participants will be carefully selected by our mentors through a rigorous review process, focusing on the quality and potential of their projects. The selection ensures that every writer in the retreat is surrounded by committed, like-minded peers and receives top-tier mentorship. If you're committed to advancing your screenwriting career, this is your chance, apply now!
