We are a premier Screenwriting Lab now entering our third year. We are operated by O Brave New Story, based in Europe and operating out of Iceland, France, and the UK.
--- THE WHALE SCREENWRITING LAB ---
2026 marks our third year running the lab. This year introduces an exciting new addition: a follow-up 12-month program of group mentorships, culminating in a live industry pitch session.
THE WHALE is a three-day immersive program designed for emerging and mid-career screenwriters whose stories originate from the margins—voices, identities, and lived experiences that challenge dominant cultural narratives.
Hosted in Paris, France, with a concluding pitch session in Reykjavik, Iceland (TBC) - or online, depending on participant availability - this cross-European lab provides a unique creative environment for writers to collaborate, experiment, and refine their storytelling craft under the guidance of experienced mentors and showrunners.
Our comprehensive development program is designed to bridge the gap between creative spark and industry reality through a three-phase approach:
(1) 3-Day Intensive Development Workshop
At this stage participants will engage in an intensive writers’ room, develop story concepts, and receive personalized feedback on their individual projects. This phase is dedicated to rigorous script development and preparing a professional, high-impact pitch. Each workshop is held in collaboration with established European Creative Partners, guaranteeing high-level networking opportunities and a deep dive into the industry.
(2) 12-Month Mentorship Program
To ensure continued momentum, we provide a year-long follow-up program. This includes monthly group sessions with your cohort and mentor to track progress, troubleshoot creative blocks, and maintain accountability.
(3) Industry Pitch Day
The lab culminates in a pitch session (Date TBD) to invited producers and commissioners, offering invaluable exposure and meaningful connections within the professional film and television ecosystem. You will receive direct feedback on your project’s market readiness, and a jury will select one standout project for a special prize.
This year's THE WHALE Paris's mentor will be Hollywood screenwriter MATT GRAHAM. The lab will be held in collaboration with the NEWIMAGES FESTIVAL.
[THE WHALE is operated by O Brave New Story (UK) and Bridge + Tunnel Productions (UK) in partnership with Stockfish Film Festival (Iceland) and NewImage Festival (France). Together, we champion bold, boundary-pushing storytelling that amplifies underrepresented voices and contributes to a more inclusive screen industry].
LAB FEES:
$950 FOR ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION (includes 3 days in Paris + 1 pitching day + online group follow-ups for 12 months).
ACCOMODATION AND TRAVEL ARE NOT INCLUDED, but discounted hotel options will be offered.
The fee includes three full days of group workshops, a one-to-one mentorship session, a 12-month program of group follow-ups, and a dedicated pitch day where participants will present their projects to invited industry guests.
Dates:
7–9 September in Paris, France.
+ a 12-month program of monthly online follow-ups.
+ one optional pitching day in Reykjavik (Date TBD) with an online participation option.
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--- MINNOWS SCREENWRITING FOUNDATION COURSE ---
2026 marks the launch of our beginners screenwriting initiative.
MINNOWS is a five-day foundation program designed for beginners and first-time screenwriters whose voices, identities, and lived experiences challenge dominant cultural narratives.
Hosted in Paris, France, this cross-European lab provides a unique opportunity for new creatives to acquire a solid foundation for their screenwriting craft. Participants will learn the rules and skills that will serve them throughout their careers, all under the guidance of experienced mentors and showrunners.
This year's MINNOWS Paris's mentor will be BAFTA and Sundance nominated filmmaker TINA GHARAVI. The lab will be held in collaboration with the NEWIMAGES FESTIVAL.
[MINNOWS is operated by O Brave New Story (UK) and Bridge + Tunnel Productions (UK) in partnership with Stockfish Film Festival (Iceland) and New Image Film Festival (France). Together, we champion bold, boundary-pushing storytelling that amplifies underrepresented voices and contributes to a more inclusive screen industry].
LAB FEES:
$1200 FOR ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION (includes 5 days in Paris).
ACCOMODATION AND TRAVEL ARE NOT INCLUDED, but discounted hotel options will be offered.
The fee includes five full days of workshops, professional talks, and group activities.
Dates:
6–10 September in Paris, France.
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ANY QUESTIONS... Just ask! You can reach us on: obravenewstory@gmail.com
FIND OUT MORE: https://www.obravenewstory.com/
--- THE WHALE SCREENWRITING LAB ---
Each lab will select a maximum of 14 participants, with one full scholarship being offered.
The winning pitch will be chosen by the industry for a prize.
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--- MINNOWS SCREENWRITING FOUNDATION COURSE ---
Each lab will select a maximum of 12 beginner screenwriters.
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March 2026
