It really is quite amazing how immersive a comic convention can be. Because not only are you amongst friends and people of like mindedness, but you’re surrounded by the stories you love and that lets you get lost and enjoy the moment and just immerse yourself in a nerdy world of joy. But these days, conventions are taking that one step further. By doing their best to truly make you part of the world you adore and for proof… well then look no further than what Peacock did today at San Diego Comic Con.
 
For not only did they take the time to host a panel with the cast and director/executive producer of Those About to Die, but they also debuted an amazing behind the scenes reel for fans to enjoy, alongside… an immersive experience. Courtesy of a tiny Circus Maximus activation where fans were able to, and still can, race chariots in their own special way, and today, the cast of the show dropped by to check it out and help in the fun. All of which just speaks to an incredible immersive experience at SDCC, one that really did allow for fans to live in this Roman world, and soon… they can enjoy the legacy of Rome at the activation as well. 
 
Courtesy of a viewing party of the Opening Ceremonies at the activation center and well, to help you experience that firsthand and understand what an amazing day Peacock put together for the fans, here are all the details on the activation, the viewing party, photos from the panel and activation and that behind the scenes featurette… to help immerse you in the wonder of Ancient Rome courtesy of Those About to Die.
 
‘The Those About to Die panel treated fans to a never before seen behind-the-scenes featurette and conversation moderated by Collider's Perri Nemiroff, featruring director/executive producer Roland Emmerich and stars Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Moe Hashim, Jojo Macari, Dimitri Leonidas and Gabriella Pession. The group revealed everything that went into making this gladiator epic, from the stunts for the action-packed fight scenes to the VFX and production design that brought Ancient Rome to life.
 
The cast and creatives behind Those About to Die were able to immerse themselves in the glory of Ancient Rome as they experienced the THOSE ABOUT TO DIE: THE CHARIOT RACE activation this morning. The activation is located at 170 Sixth Avenue right in the heart of the Gaslamp District and will be open for the full duration of Comic-Con. Tomorrow morning, Friday (7/26), Peacock and NBC will live stream the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony at the activation from 10:30am PT - 3pm PT. 

THOSE ABOUT TO DIE is an epic drama set in the corrupt world of the spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition, exploring a side of ancient Rome never before told — the dirty business of entertaining the masses, giving the mob what they want most…blood and sport. The series introduces an ensemble of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire who collide at the explosive intersection of sports, politics, and dynasties.

Premiere Date/Rollout: July 18, 2024 (All episodes)
Directors: Roland Emmerich (Ep 101, 102, 103, 109, 110), Marco Kreuzpaintner (Ep 104, 105, 106, 107, 108)
Created by: Robert Rodat (Wrote Ep 101, 102, 103, 109, 110)
Executive Producers: Roland Emmerich, Harald Kloser, Gianni Nunnari, Robert Rodat, Stuart Ford, Lourdes Diaz, Miguel A. Palos Jr., Marco Kreuzpaintner, Herbert G. Kloiber, Martin Moszkowicz, Oliver Berben, Jonas Bauer, Charles Holland, Namit Malhotra. 
Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, Moe Hashim, Johannes Haukur Johannesson, Rupert Penry-Jones, Gabriella Pession, Dimitri Leonidas, Emilio Sakraya, David Wurawa, Pepe Barroso, Gonçalo Almeida, Eneko Sagardoy, Romana Maggiora Vergano 
Studio: AGC Television   
Production Companies: Centropolis Entertainment, Hollywood Gang Productions, Street Entertainment    
Format: Drama Series, 10 x 60 min episodes'

For geeks and nerds everywhere, or nerds that geek if you will, a magical weekend has arrived. For San Diego Comic Con is here at last, and with it comes so much joy. One complete with amazing cosplay, that sense of unity amongst the nerd community and of course… a chance to learn about new shows and new movies thanks to networks and studios showcasing upcoming shows and Peacock made sure to get into the game. For they hosted two major panels today, one of which offered up a sneak peek at an anticipated horror series.
 
For fans at the convention were able to enjoy a first look at, Teacup, and learn about the series from executive producers James Wan and Ian McCulloch and cast members Yvonne Strahovski, Scott Speedman, and Chaske Spencer, and what we learned… was amazing. In that, the show will now debut on October 10 this year, with a two-episode premiere, with new episodes arriving until Halloween and of course, first-look photos and a teaser were present, all of which we will share with you now, and more. Because Peacock and the team behind Teacup are beyond excited for everyone to enjoy this fascinating and creepy new series, and do not want you to miss you.
 
ABOUT TEACUP 
TEACUP follows a disparate group of people in rural Georgia who must come together in the face of a mysterious threat in order to survive. Inspired by the New York Times bestselling novel Stinger by Robert McCammon. 

Premiere Date/Rollout: October 10, 2024 (2 Episodes Weekly)
Writer / Executive Producer: Ian McCulloch (Yellowstone, Deputy, Chicago Fire) 
Director (101, 102) / Executive Producer: E.L. Katz (The Haunting of Bly Manor, Channel Zero) 
Executive Producers: James Wan (The Conjuring Universe, Archive 81, M3GAN), Michael Clear (Archive 81, Swamp Thing) and Rob Hackett (Archive 81, I Know What You Did Last Summer) for Atomic Monster, Francisca X. Hu, Kevin Tancharoen 
Executive Producer / Author (Stinger): Robert McCammon 
Cast: Yvonne Strahovski, Scott Speedman, Chaske Spencer, Kathy Baker, Boris McGiver, Caleb Dolden, Emilie Bierre, Luciano Leroux 
Studio: UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group 
Genre/Format: Horror Thriller, 8 x 30 Min Episodes 
 
A NOTE FROM IAN MCCULLOCH (SHOWRUNNER / EXECUTIVE PRODUCER)
When Atomic Monster first approached me about creating a series adaptation of Robert McCammon’s Stinger—a no-holds-barred, gargantuan spectacle of a novel along the lines of The Stand, Independence Day and Mars Attacks—to be honest, I didn’t want to throw my hat in the ring. I’m not a spectacle writer. I’m a less-is-more writer. I gravitate more toward what are known as keyhole epics. Large stories told through small lenses. Think Signs, The Thing, A Quiet Place.
 
But here’s the thing. I read Stinger and it stayed with me. Wouldn’t leave me alone. I just couldn’t stop thinking about its razor-sharp premise, how it unfolds over the course of a single harrowing day, and about the relatable and real family McCammon puts center stage. That’s when the flash bang-light bulb idea hit…
 
What if I adapted Stinger in a way that honors the book and stays true to the kinds of stories I like to tell? Keep the conceit. Keep Stinger’s most effective elements. Take away the large ensemble. Take away the giant set pieces. Even take away the book’s crowded town setting. The adaptation would be like an acoustic guitar version of, say, a Radiohead song. It won’t have the production value, electronic instruments, loops, or synthesized bells and whistles but it will still have the melody, the structure, the lyrics, the real magic at the core, all the stuff that makes a great song a great song.
 
All of which is to say I could suddenly see exactly what to do and how to do it. Two weeks later, Atomic Monster had the script for the first episode. Soon after that, Peacock bought it. Not so long after that, both my creative and career dreams actually started coming true as more scripts were written, hires made, actors cast, sets built, and production began…
 
Of course, during production the series changed and evolved. Just as it should. Even the title’s different. Stinger is now Teacup. The reasons for this are too spoilery to share but watch the first few episodes and all will be revealed. Point being, the series is now very much its own thing: a puzzle-box mystery, an edge-of-your-seat thriller, a can’t-but-must look horror story, a family drama, a science fiction epic—of the keyhole variety, of course. But as singular, strange, and surprising as I hope Teacup is, all you need to do is peel away the layers, characters, situations, and mythology and look behind the thrills, chills, hairpin turns and make-you gasp reveals. Do all that and you’ll see, at its heart, Teacup is still very much standing on the shoulders of Stinger. Just as it should.
 
A NOTE FROM JAMES WAN (EXECUTIVE PRODUCER)
After reading Robert McCammon's book Stinger, the entire team at Atomic Monster felt a spark. The story had all the ingredients for a captivating series and Ian McCulloch had a vision to bring it to life in a fresh way that was both startling and darkly atmospheric, but filled with a rich sense of humanity — often lacking in edgy narratives. Add in our incredibly talented cast led by Yvonne Strahovski, Scott Speedman and Chaske Spencer and fans are in for a true edge-of-your-seat experience.
 
Teacup defies easy labels. It's a genre-bending blend of horror, mystery, and drama, with layers that unfold like a captivating puzzle. It goes beyond chills and thrills and holds up a mirror to humanity, exploring the darkness that resides within us all. We hope you enjoy this wild ride as much as we've loved creating it!

​It truly is becoming apparent now that the world of popular culture is close to being back to normal. For shows and movies are heading back into production and of course, fans are getting ready to once again see stars at San Diego Comic-Con. For Hall H panels are back, and this year’s Comic-Con will be host to a great deal of star-studded panels. Where actors and creatives will discuss new and returning shows and big-time movies and well, one that is of note, will be brought to you by Apple TV+.
 
For the network is going to take fans into the heart of the Silo, courtesy of a panel that will showcase what season two has to offer, complete with series stars, Rebecca Ferguson, Common, showrunner and creator Graham Yost and author Hugh Howey and well, this should be an amazing panel. For fans immediately fell in love with Silo and simply must know more about what lie ahead after that epic ending, and this group will undoubtedly have stuff to share with the crowd. And well, while we wait to learn what secrets will be said in the panel, here are all the details on this special event, courtesy of Apple, to help motivate you to get in line early at SDCC.
 
‘Apple TV+ today announced that “Silo,” its globally acclaimed and hit world-building drama based on Hugh Howey’s New York Times bestselling trilogy, will make its San Diego Comic-Con debut on Saturday July 27, 2024 for a panel and conversation around what fans can look forward to in the highly anticipated second season of “Silo” featuring star and executive producer Rebecca Ferguson, star Common, creator and showrunner Graham Yost and executive producer Hugh Howey, plus surprise special guests. The panel will be moderated by Adam Savage (Editor-in-Chief, Tested.com). 
 
“Silo” is the story of the last ten thousand people on earth, their mile-deep home protecting them from the toxic and deadly world outside. However, no one knows when or why the silo was built and any who try to find out face fatal consequences. Ferguson stars as Juliette, an engineer, who seeks answers about a loved one's murder and tumbles onto a mystery that goes far deeper than she could have ever imagined, leading her to discover that if the lies don't kill you, the truth will. 
 
Fans can catch up on the first season, now streaming globally on Apple TV+.
 
Following its global premiere in May 2023, “Silo” was quickly hailed as a “riveting and equally star-studded,” “must-watch” series and “simply transcendent sci-fi TV.” In addition to quickly reaching Certified Fresh status on Rotten Tomatoes, season one landed acclaim for its "rich and compelling” world-building elements, as well as the “incredible” performance by Ferguson, who “brings an understated gravitas” to the lead role.
 
Silo” is produced for Apple TV+ by Apple Studios based on the novels by Hugh Howey. The series is executive produced by Yost, Michael Dinner, Nina Jack, Joanna Thapa, Ferguson, Academy Award nominee Morten Tyldum (“Defending Jacob,” “The Imitation Game”), Howey, Fred Golan, Rémi Aubuchon, and AMC Studios.
 
Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have earned 498 wins and 2,187 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”
 
About Apple TV+
Apple TV+ is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $9.99 per month with a seven-day free trial. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.*
 
For more information, visit apple.com/tvpr and see the full list of supported devices.
*Special offer is good for three months after the first activation of the eligible device. One offer per Family Sharing group. Plans automatically renew until canceled. Other restrictions and terms apply; visit apple.com/promo for more information.’

It is definitely safe to say that San Diego Comic-Con is the premier comic convention in the United States of America. For it truly is the biggest gathering of nerds and geeks around, and of course, it doesn’t hurt that you see the biggest stars there and learn about the biggest shows and movies while there as well. Because it really is that perfect convergence of pop culture and comics and everything, we love about them, and it is one of the few places that fans can also immerse themselves in the worlds they crave, courtesy of what some of the networks bring to the table, such as Peacock. For they are well known for creating immersive experiences for fans to enjoy at SDCC, and this year is no exception to that rule.
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Since they will be offering up an interactive Chariot Race experience to celebrate the upcoming release of Those About to Die. Plus, fans can learn more about the show from cast and crew members and they can also learn about Teacup from the cast and crew, and enjoy a livestream of the opening ceremonies of this year’s Olympic Games in between trips to the iconic Hall H. And well… since you’re undoubtedly curious about when these events might be taking place so you can check them out, here is the schedule and location of these events. Along with details about the shows in question… to prepare you for an immersive experience at the nation’s biggest convention, all courtesy of Peacock.

THURSDAY, JULY 25 - SUNDAY, JULY 28:
THOSE ABOUT TO DIE: THE CHARIOT RACE
Immerse yourself in the glory of Ancient Rome at San Diego Comic-Con 2024 with Peacock's "Those About To Die: The Chariot Race."  Step inside the betting tavern, join one of the coveted factions and experience the adrenaline thrill of the chariot race itself. Inspired by the new Original series, Peacock’s in-world activation will bring the ancient “Circus Maximus” to life right in the Gaslamp District. Upon entry, guests will be divided into the 5 factions from the show and given the chance to whip a pair of reins to power their team’s chariot to victory.
The activation will be open for the full duration of San Diego Comic-Con, Thursday, July 25 - 28.
To reserve your place and bypass lines, please register at https://peacockthechariotrace.com/. Tickets are available at no cost. Guests who have not pre-registered can join the standby line with limited entrance availability.
WHEN: Thursday, July 25 - Sunday, July 28
HOURS: Thursday: 12PM - 6:30 PM
                Friday: 10AM - 6:30 PM
Saturday: 10AM - 6:30 PM
                Sunday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
WHERE: 170 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
 
THURSDAY, JULY 25
FIRST LOOK AT PEACOCK’S HORROR-THRILLER SERIES TEACUP
Join executive producers James Wan and Ian McCulloch and stars Yvonne Strahovski, Scott Speedman, and Chaske Spencer for an exclusive sneak peek at Peacock and Atomic Monster’s upcoming original horror series Teacup - a terrifying tale following a disparate group of people in rural Georgia who must come together in the face of a mysterious threat in order to survive. 
WHEN: 1:45 - 2:45 PM PT
WHERE: Ballroom 20
 
BEHIND-THE-ACTION OF PEACOCK’S GLADIATOR EPIC THOSE ABOUT TO DIE
Dive into the Roman Empire's explosive intersection of sports, politics, and dynasties as featured in Those About To Die with an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Peacock series alongside executive producer/director Roland Emmerich and stars Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Moe Hashim, Jojo Macari, and Dimitri Leonidas. 
WHEN: 3:00 - 4:00 PM PT
WHERE: Ballroom 20
 
ABOUT TEACUP
Logline: TEACUP follows a disparate group of people in rural Georgia who must come together in the face of a mysterious threat in order to survive. Inspired by the New York Times bestselling novel Stinger by Robert McCammon. 
Showrunner / Executive Producer: Ian McCulloch (Yellowstone, Deputy, Chicago Fire) 
Director (101, 102) / Executive Producer: E.L. Katz (The Haunting of Bly Manor, Channel Zero) 
Executive Producers: James Wan (The Conjuring Universe, Archive 81, M3GAN), Michael Clear (Archive 81, Swamp Thing), and Rob Hackett (Archive 81, I Know What You Did Last Summer) for Atomic Monster, Francisca X. Hu, Kevin Tancharoen 
Executive Producer / Author (Stinger): Robert McCammon 
Cast: Yvonne Strahovski, Scott Speedman, Chaske Spencer, Kathy Baker, Boris McGiver, Caleb Dolden, Emilie Bierre, Luciano Leroux 
Studio: UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group
Genre/Format: Horror Thriller, 8 x 30 Min Episodes 
 
ABOUT THOSE ABOUT TO DIE
Logline: THOSE ABOUT TO DIE is an epic drama set in the corrupt world of the spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition, exploring a side of ancient Rome never before told — the dirty business of entertaining the masses, giving the mob what they want most…blood and sport. The series introduces an ensemble of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire who collide at the explosive intersection of sports, politics, and dynasties.
Premiere Date/Rollout: All 10 episodes of THOSE ABOUT TO DIE premiere Thursday, July 18 on Peacock, just in time for viewers to also watch the 2024 Paris Olympics (July 26 – Aug 11, 2024). Every event of the Summer Games will stream live on Peacock. Opening Ceremony coverage begins July 26 at Noon ET on NBC and Peacock.
Directors: Roland Emmerich (Ep 101, 102, 103, 109, 110), Marco Kreuzpaintner (Ep 104, 105, 106, 107, 108) 
Created by: Robert Rodat (Wrote Ep 101, 102, 103, 109, 110)
Executive Producers: Roland Emmerich, Harald Kloser, Gianni Nunnari, Robert Rodat, Stuart Ford, Lourdes Diaz, Miguel A. Palos Jr., Marco Kreuzpaintner, Herbert G. Kloiber, Martin Moszkowicz, Oliver Berben, Jonas Bauer, Charles Holland, Namit Malhotra
Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, Moe Hashim, Johannes Haukur Johannesson, Rupert Penry-Jones, Gabriella Pession, Dimitri Leonidas, Emilio Sakraya, David Wurawa, Pepe Barroso, Gonçalo Almeida, Eneko Sagardoy, Romana Maggiora Vergano, Lara Wolf, Angeliqa Devi, Kyshan Wilson, Alicia Edogamhe 
Studio: AGC Television 
Production Companies: Centropolis Entertainment, Hollywood Gang Productions, Street Entertainment 
Format: Drama Series, 10 x 60 min episodes 
 
FRIDAY, JULY 26:
PEACOCK AND NBC ARE ENSURING FANS DON’T MISS A MOMENT OF THE HISTORIC PARIS OLYMPICS OPENING CEREMONY WITH A LIVESTREAM AT SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON
Set in Ancient Rome, the new Peacock Original series Those About to Die takes audiences back to the origins of arena sports. Just as guests will have the opportunity to experience the thrill of a chariot race for themselves at Peacock’s fan activation at San Diego Comic-Con, the 2024 Olympic Games will begin in Paris, France. To kick off this fortuitous moment and bridge live-action sports from the past with the present, Peacock and NBC will stunt the Opening Ceremony on Friday morning, July 26th with a public viewing using a 20x30 foot digital board to livestream Peacock’s feed. The excitement will kick off with an Ancient Roman-dressed band playing Olympic-inspired fanfare tunes marching through the Gaslamp District. The band will arrive at Peacock’s activation footprint, in front of the "Circus Maximus," just in time for the Ceremony to begin, drawing in passersby along the way. The full duration of the Opening Ceremony will be live-streamed, from 10:30am PT - 3pm PT.
WHEN: 10:30am - 3:00pm PT
WHERE: 170 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

There are a great many reasons as to why people eagerly attend the Austin Film Festival every year. The obvious one being, they feature some amazing features. For so many creatives get to present their amazing work in front of an audience here and that’s just the beginning. Since there are also screenings of shorts and television pilots to be found, and of course… it is an amazing place to meet creatives and learn about what inspires them. Not to mention, this is also a festival that properly honors those that work in the industry.
​
Because without the work of those professionals, there would be no film festivals, no creatives hoping to follow in the footsteps of the greats. Which is why it is important to honor them and their contributions and earlier today, it just so happens that the Austin Film Festival made it known which creatives will receive top honors this year at the 2024 Writers Conference. For Shōgun co-creators Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo will receive the 2024 Writer’s Writer Award and the 2024 New Voice Award, respectively, for their amazing work in the industry and well… to properly do this announcement justice, here are all the details on this magnificent news, courtesy of the Austin Film Festival.

‘AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL (AFF) announced today two awardees to be honored as part of its 31st Festival & Writers Conference happening October 24 – 31, 2024. The Writer’s Writer Award, introduced in 2023, honors a singular talent already recognized within the industry and by their peers, whose latest project has illustrated their versatility across mediums and elevated the trajectory of their career. The 2024 awardee is screenwriter, showrunner, and Shōgun co-creator Justin Marks. The inaugural Writer’s Writer Award was presented to Cord Jefferson in 2023 for his debut feature American Fiction, which went on to win the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. Justin Marks is an Oscar-nominated screenwriter, and a television creator and executive producer.  

In feature film, Justin Marks was most recently a writer on the worldwide box-office hit film Top Gun: Maverick for producer Jerry Bruckheimer and Paramount with Tom Cruise reprising his iconic role. The film has earned nearly $1.5 billion worldwide. Justin also wrote the Walt Disney Company’s hit film The Jungle Book directed by Jon Favreau and earned nearly $1 billion in worldwide box office. The cast included Scarlett Johansson, Idris Elba, Lupita Nyong’o, Bill Murray, Christopher Walken and Ben Kingsley. A sequel is in development now. Recently, Justin was writing and producing Netflix’s animated musical The Prince of Port-au-Prince based on the life of Wyclef Jean. 

In television, Justin is the co-creator and showrunner of the FX epic series Shōgun based on the novel by James Clavell. Previously, Justin was the creator and showrunner of the Starz drama Counterpart that starred JK Simmons and ran for two seasons. 

Shōgun co-creator Rachel Kondo will receive the 2024 New Voice Award, which celebrates unique and captivating new voices in film, television, and new media. Past award recipients include So Young Shelly Yo (2023), Nikyatu Jusu (2022), Channing Godfrey Peoples (2021), and Catherine Reitman (2019). 
Rachel Kondo was born and raised on Maui. Her writing has appeared in Electric Literature, Ploughshares Solos and Indiana Review. In 2019, her story “Girl of Few Seasons” was included in The O. Henry Prize Stories and selected as a juror favorite by Elizabeth Strout. Along with Justin Marks, she co-created the FX television production of Shōgun adapted from the novel by James Clavell. She is a graduate of the Michener Center for Writers and now lives on Maui. 

At AFF’s Writers Conference, happening October 24 – 27, 2024, the pair will discuss their respective career paths and their success with celebrated new show Shōgun. 

Marks and Kondo join previously announced honorees Kathleen Kennedy, recipient of the 2024 Polly Platt Award for Producing, and Ronald D. Moore, recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Television Writer Award. 

Additional panelists at the Writers Conference will include: Marissa Jo Cerar, the creator of acclaimed miniseries Woman of the Movement and Black Cake, Tanya Saracho, creator of the critical darling Vida, Matt Selman, showrunner of The Simpsons, Craig Mazin, creator of prestige miniseries Chernobyl and The Last of Us, Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, writers of A Quiet Place, Pamela Ribon, writer on Nimona, and Julie Plec, showrunner behind The Vampire Diaries universe. 

The Conference will present over 150 panels on the art, craft, and business of storytelling, featuring a slate of prominent industry professionals working in film, television, and new media. 

ABOUT AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL & WRITERS CONFERENCE Entering its thirty-first year, Austin Film Festival & Writers Conference is a non-profit organization dedicated to furthering the art, craft and business of writers and filmmakers and recognizing their contributions to film, television, theater, and new media. AFF champions the work of aspiring and established storytellers by providing unique cultural events and services, enhancing public awareness and participation, and encouraging dynamic and long-lasting community partnerships. This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of The City of Austin Economic Development Department and Texas Commission on the Arts. The 31st Annual Austin Film Festival will take place October 24 – 31, 2024. All attendees and events are based on permitting schedules and are subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. Badges and passes are available for purchase online at www.austinfilmfestival.com or by phone at 1-800-310-FEST. 

ABOUT NEW VOICE AWARD 
Introduced in 2019, Austin Film Festival's New Voice Award honors unique and captivating new voices in film, television, and new media. Past award recipients include Nikyatu Jusu (2022), Channing Godfrey Peoples (2021), and Catherine Reitman (2019). 
 
ABOUT WRITER'S WRITER AWARD 
Introduced in 2023, Austin Film Festival's Writer's Writer Award honors honors a singular talent already recognized within the industry and by their peers, whose latest project has illustrated their versatility across mediums and elevated the trajectory of their career. The inaugural Writer’s Writer Award was presented to Cord Jefferson.’

It is definitely safe to say, that the convention/festival experience has changed greatly in 2024. Because what used to be an environment that felt relaxed, friendly, and welcoming, has transformed into so much more. Because much of that circuit now has become quite corporate in nature. Wherein there is less care about the experience and the memories made, and more love and thought are put into profits and what kind of giant names can walk the red carpet or appear in the celebrity designated area, and that’s unfortunate. Because festivals and conventions really do have the potential to be bastions of creativity and joy for all who attend.

Granted, this doesn’t apply to ALL conventions and festivals, but it is a fair majority of them and that’s why we need to celebrate and champion the cons and festivals that buck this notion and still want their event to be something special, memorable and a true service to the fan and its overall focus. Which is why SeriesFest, deserves a round of applause and every accolade we can send its way. For this celebration of television recently took place from May 1-5, and well, Season 10 was indeed quite incredible. Largely because of the legacy this festival has managed to create for itself, because going on for a decade is no small feat and that milestone was not lost on the staff and the attendees of this year’s ‘Fest.

Because everyone understood the gravity of that, and how… it meant that there was real history to the festival now. After all, so many big and beloved shows had their early screenings at SeriesFest and so many amazing original stories have been showcased through the Independent Pilot Competition and that added a real sense of glamour and glitz to this year’s festivities, and it also created a sense of awe and majesty. Primarily over the fact that SeriesFest has never lost sight of its mission. It has always been about celebrating episodic storytelling, of the wonder of the craft and of the people who dream up the ideas that make their way onto the screen. And that truth only helped to make for a pleasant experience for anyone who wanted to see exciting new shows, and those who were hoping their story would win the day or move toward a contract with a network.

For so many entrants this year spoke to how amazing it was to have their work taken seriously, to be alongside creators that wanted to accomplish the same goals as they did, which was to tell amazing and quality stories that defied convention. Which gave rise to a joyous vibe that hung over the festival all week long, and it truly came to a crescendo when the awards ceremony took place. Since the cheers were boisterous and the shock present from the winners, was authentic. Because they knew their work was taken seriously, that great thought went into who won these awards. But above all, that they were taken seriously as artists and creators and that their stories and their content, mattered deeply to everyone at SeriesFest.

All of which made, for the best season of SeriesFest to date. One that truly was filled to the brim with excitement from beginning to end, and where creativity was embraced and where fans and creatives alike were able to learn from the best in the biz. Since the innovation talks and panels offered up amazing insight and advice, and of course… you can never go wrong with the majesty of seeing a big name celebrity hanging out on the red carpet, and well… it was just nice to be reminded that there are festivals out there that hold to their mission over anything else, and refuse to budge on the matter, and that likely means… more great seasons are ahead for this festival and the storytelling present here will only get better. 

Simply because, the secret is out. In that, SeriesFest is the home of great television. And this writer is grateful for the opportunity to cover the incredible labor of love that Randi Kleiner and Kaily Smith have given to life. One that has made dreams come true and reminds us of the power of television and how it is so much more than mindless entertainment, but a true medium for quality storytelling. The kind that can and will, inspire and stay with us long after an episode has come to a close.   

Truly one of the most important moments at a film or television festival, is coming to learn who took home top honors for the various award categories said festival offers. Because fans simply want to know if they settled in to watch greatness and creators want to know who amongst their peers took home an award, or if that honor was their own, and what’s wild… is that so many festivals handle this in vastly unique and different ways. But there is one festival, that always gets it right when it comes to how best to present this. 
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For SeriesFest knows that an award ceremony is the best way to handle such matters. Since it allows for everyone present to celebrate and share in the energy and joy from their peers regardless of who walks home with the coveted top honors, and that is why the closing event for the festival is its awards ceremony. So, everyone leaves with a smile on their faces, including the fans that came to enjoy the many shows present at this festival. So, they know if they did indeed witness greatness or the next hit television show and well… to help accomplish that goal, since not everyone was able to share in the wonder, here is the complete list of Winners and Award Recipients of the SeriesFest: Season 10 Independent Pilot Competition.

‘SeriesFest, the award-winning international television festival and non-profit organization, revealed the winners of its Season 10 Independent Pilot Competition at an awards presentation on Sunday, May 5 in Denver, CO. Esteemed jurors screened 45 pilots from creative voices around the globe at this year’s milestone celebration and selected winners in categories including “Independent Pilot,” which receives $25K in-kind post production support from Company 3, “Digital Short Series,” “Late Night” and “Pitch-A-Thon.” The presentation was sponsored by Hyde Park Jewelers.
 
AWARD WINNERS INCLUDE:
 
Independent Pilot - Drama: Potluck Ladies 
Independent Pilot - Comedy: Broken Toilets 
Independent Pilot - Unscripted: Breakthrough 
Digital Shorts: PROBLEMATIC
Late Night: Miracle Wood
Pitch-A-Thon: The Haunting of Trisha Lozada
 
*Below please find the full list of additional winners including honorable mentions.
 
“Our Independent Pilot Competition embodies the very essence of SeriesFest and aligns with our core mission - to champion independent artists,” remarked Randi Kleiner, CEO and Co-Founder of SeriesFest. “With ten seasons under our belt, we’ve been able to establish a platform for showcasing up-and-coming creators, providing them with an outlet to amplify their voices and share their projects with industry executives, established on-screen talent and below-the-line creatives. This year’s winners represent the future of television and we could not be more excited to celebrate their success.”
 
At the awards ceremony, SeriesFest also announced the final selections for three festival initiatives including the Level Forward Impact Award and the Caz Matthews Fund. Now in its fourth year, the Level Forward Impact Award began as an invitation for creators to consider how commercial episodic storytelling can both change norms and be good for business. By valuing authenticity, equity, and care, Breakthrough is the recipient of this year’s award and will receive a $5,000 cash prize and development deal with Level Forward. This brave new series reveals the pain and healing within some of the most incredible athletes in the world. 
 
Caz Matthews, a Colorado-based supporter of SeriesFest and of the independent creators of television content, awarded four official selections from the Independent Pilot competitions including This Boy’s Vida (Made in America), Hard to Swallow, THE DOUG HEIR STORY and Breakthrough with a one-time financial donation from the Caz Matthews Fund. These recipients represent the independent filmmakers who have important stories to tell and have the desire to both create work as well as find distribution opportunities that further promote tolerance, acceptance and understanding of all cultures and persons in the general population. 
 
New this year, SeriesFest presents the Outstanding Series Format Deck Award presented by Canva and the Inclusive Creator Fund. The Outstanding Series Format Deck Award was awarded to Late Night Competition Pilot, Bits, which will receive a $5,000 cash prize for their best submission deck created in Canva. The Inclusive Creator Fund, supported by the Anna & John J. Sie Foundation and Global Down Syndrome Foundation, is intended to support television projects submitted to SeriesFest: Season 10 that include talent with intellectual disabilities in front of and behind the camera. This year’s grant funds were awarded to Brewability, an unscripted series that follows the staff of Brewability and its pioneering owner Tiffany, as they navigate life's challenges both at work and at home, and together show the world what's possible when we start inviting each other to the table. 
 
SeriesFest: Season 10 is presented with generous support from the following sponsors: Canva, Once Upon A Time Productions, Liberty Global, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Denver Film, Caz Matthews, Xfinity, and United Airlines, along with generous support from the SCFD. SeriesFest’s closing night is supported by Deadline Hollywood.’

Jury: Ronald D. Moore (Executive Producer, Writer, Showrunner, Tall Ship Productions, “For All Mankind”), Chiké Okonkwo (Co-Founder, Mansa), Jocelyn Sabo (SVP, TV Development, Lionsgate), Jacqueline Sacerio (Producer) 
 
Best Drama Pilot: Potluck Ladies 
Director: Shazia Javed
Executive Producer: Shazia Javed 
Writer: Shazia Javed
Producer:  Shazia Javed
Cast: Natasha Krishnan, Elisa Moolecherry, Kavita Musty   
Sumaira, Azra, and Ruby live in “The Wives Condos” in the suburbs of Toronto with their children, while their husbands work in other countries. They initially meet at potluck lunches, a weekly guilt-free escape from the loneliness of immigrant life. At first glance, they seem to be living perfect lives, but when their carefully crafted facades crumble, they must learn to be vulnerable and seek each other’s support. 
 
Jury Statement: For its fascinating look into a unique world of sisterhood and female friendship and the cultural pressures that are imposed upon us, Best Drama goes to a show whose characters touched us and made us want to see the next chapters of their lives - Potluck Ladies.
 
Best Director: Saša Hajduković, Skin
Jury Statement:  For its confident and dynamic direction and sure handed balance of tension and mystery while engaging us in the emotional story of a man just getting out of prison, the award for best direction goes to Sasha Hajduković from Skin.
 
Best Writer: Joseph Castillo-Midyett, The Boy’s Vida (Made in America) 
Jury Statement: For the detailed and empathetic portrait of a boy in a world seldom depicted on television, the script that touched our hearts and made us want to see the next chapter in this boy’s life, the writing prize goes to Joseph Castillo-Midyett.
 
Best Performance, Ensemble: Neo-Dome  
Jury Statement:  Instead of acknowledging an individual performance this year, we felt one ensemble performance stood out above the rest. Set mostly in a car, these actors were by turns, funny, scary, surprising and always engaging. We are awarding a Best Performance by an Ensemble to "Neo Dome."
 
Best Performance, Honorable Mention: Travis W Buyer, Heebuck 
Jury Statement:  For his authentic, heartfelt and funny portrayal of a small town deputy sheriff grappling with a changing world, we want to make a special mention to Travis W. Bruyer for his role as Heebuck.

Jury: Michael Falbo (Partner, Pacific Electric Picture Co.), Malcolm Venable (Senior Writer, Shondaland.com), Amanda Krentzman (Principal & Founder, Show Pony Entertainment)
 
Best Comedy Pilot: Broken Toilets 
Director: Jesse Toledano 
Executive Producers: Thomas Mahoney, David Benyisha, Zakary Levin, and Jesse Toledano 
Writer: Jesse Toledano 
Producer: Justin Ambrosino  
Cast: Luzer Twersky, Dede Lovelace 
BROKEN TOILETS tells the story of Yossi Klein, a young Hassidic man, tasked to take care of his 
father-in-law’s buildings in a low-income, mostly black outer borough of NYC. But Yossi has a secret – he loves hip hop.  During the everyday mundane, often absurd tasks that come along with property management, he meets two tenants – young aspiring hip hop artists, DiAndra “Dee” Jones and Kevin Randolph. Together they form the most unlikely of musical trios and set off to make a demo record, all the while Yossi navigates what it means to be a Hassidic Jew in the modern world. 
 
Jury Statement: This is a pilot that will create a larger, unifying conversation. With a high production value, unique characters, and consistent pacing throughout, the jury believes this to be the pilot most appealing and ready for distribution.
 
Best Director: Nick Bartlett, The Boy Who Was Afraid of Everything  
Jury Statement:  The directing stands out for its use of sharp comedic beats to create many laugh out loud moments.
 
Best Director, Honorable Mention: David Sonnenborn, Larry in the Sky with Diamonds
Jury Statement: The jury would like to recognize David Sonnenborn for his imaginative world building, taking much creativity and artistic skill. 
 
Best Writer: Jasia Ka and Amamah Sardar, Girls Aren’t Funny 
Jury Statement:  This is an example of a very successful pilot set up to be made into a TV series. The story is strong with multiple points of conflict and tension that weave together to create a longing for more episodes. 
 
Best Performance: Haris Mirza, The Boy Who Was Afraid of Everything 
Jury Statement:  In the hands of another actor, this part would not make sense. Haris Mirza gave a very quirky and specific performance. Enjoyable and funny, with tons of humanity. 
 
Best Performance, Honorable Mention: Sam Song Li, Marvin Is Sorry
Jury Statement: Sam Song Li took a character that is immediately unlikeable as an influencer and really made you empathize and root for him. You see a real and applaudable range, with the character starting in comedy and ending in despair. 

Jury: Michael Rucker (Showrunner / Director, Blue Raincoat), Andrea Ambam (Programming Manager & Host, Level Forward), Diana Williams (Co-founder / CEO, Kinetic Energy Entertainment)
 
Best Unscripted Pilot: Breakthrough 
Director: JaMar Jones
Executive Producer: Jared A. Johnston  
Writers: Jared A. Johnston, JaMar Jones, LaTonya Joyce
Producers: LaTonya Joyce, Jenahye Johnson, Alexis Chinery
Cast: D'joun Smith
Breakthrough is a documentary series that explores how athletes face identity crises and 
depression after a life-altering event that results in their removal from the sport on a professional level. Utilizing football as the hook for the first season, this series presents the importance of seeking community and professional assistance to help bring closure to their former identities in the NFL through group therapy.
 
Jury Statement: This series sheds light on a subject matter that has gone unspoken for far too long. By presenting a cultural taboo with specificity which becomes universal and beautiful shots leaving us eager for what comes next - from both a buyer and audience standpoint – this is a pilot screaming to be a series.
 
Best Direction: Hard To Swallow 
Jury Statement:  The choice for best direction encapsulates a fresh and necessary voice in the 
unscripted landscape. While presenting a subject matter that was literally hard to swallow, the 
sharp and witty direction took on us an evocative and emotional rollercoaster –– making it clear 
this is a story that needs to be told by a team that is audacious enough to embrace the 
complexity.

Jury: Kasey Newton (Director, Content Acquisitions & Partnerships, Tubi), Saloni Gajjar (Staff Writer, TV, The A.V. Club), Brian Tee (Actor, “Expats”)
 
Best of Digital Short Series: PROBLEMATIC 
Director: Sushma Khadepaun
Executive Producers: Kecia Élan Cole, Kuye Youngblood, Devyn Inez Fusaro, Aditi Natasha Kini, Pranav Behari, Grace Sin
Writers: Pranav Behari & Aditi Natasha Kini
Producer: Grace Sin (Paradoxic) 
Cast: Deepti Menon, Austin Ku, Usama Siddiquee, Devyn Inez Fusaro, Leah Pressman, Pranav Behari, Philip Galinsky, Rajesh Bose, Michael McBride
An unknown writer becomes an overnight media sensation when her public tirade against a finance douche goes viral. Now the voice of #WokeBrooklyn, the dynamics shift with her obnoxious boss, a deranged work rival, and her carefree BFF as the clock ticks on her 15 minutes of fame. 
 
Jury Statement:  Problematic grips you instantly because of its confident voice. It’s a funny, fresh 
take on a workplace situational comedy, with well-written characters and a poignant matter. It’s a storyline that translates perfectly into a TV series because it leaves you wanting more at the end of each episode.
 
Best Director: Katie Locke O’Brien, Dick Bunny
Jury Statement: The inventive ways to get into a mother’s psyche were stimulating and creative. 
The direction made Dick Bunny’s themes of loneliness, magical realism, and paranoia feel accessible and hilarious.
 
Best Writer: Dmitry Milkin, Good Guy with a Pun
Jury Statement: The writing is rooted in reality while dealing with complex situations. With so much at stake for the characters, it’s still easy to remain invested in each scenario. The script captures specific nuances well, ranging from cringe internet lingo to an emotional father-daughter reunion.
 
Best Individual Performance: Kim Griffin, Dick Bunny  
Jury Statement: Kim’s acting is grounded and genuine. She pulls you into her character’s world and makes it easy to root for her. It’s a subtle yet evocative performance, successfully eliciting both empathy and laughs.
 
Best Ensemble Performance: Shit on your Lip 
Jury Statement:  All the actors had a layered chemistry that felt true to the story. They handle their characters’ evolving dynamic with the right amount of absurdity and compliment each other well.
 
All Around Excellence: Ramadan America
Jury Statement: The digital short is filmed and written wonderfully, presenting a universally relatable theme and a message that resonates across generations. The actors' genuineness transcends the screen. It’s wholesome and champions diversity with authenticity.

Jury: Missy Laney (Director of Development, Adult Swim), Jen Yamato (Journalist and Critic), Landon Zakheim (Festival Co-Director, The Overlook Film Festival)
 
Best Late Night Pilot: Miracle Wood 
Director: Johnny Rey Diaz
Executive Producers: Johnny Rey Diaz
Writer: Johnny Rey Diaz
Producers: Johnny Rey Diaz, Ash T
Cast: Alejandro Patiño, Matt McCoy
Miracle Wood is the first short film of a digital series called “Two Brown Crayons.” The concept of the series is five short, dark comedies or sketches. Each film takes place in one location, featuring a different theme or topic while set in a different decade. Miracle Wood takes place in 1992 and focuses on televangelists who use religion as a way of exploiting people when they are at their lowest point. The remaining episodes will focus on themes of mental health, familial constructs, immigration and politics all grounded in reality but told through a comedic or satirical lens. 
 
Jury Statement:  For its incisive social critique of real life horrors fueled by a suspenseful, darkly 
comic vision and a haunting performance by Alejandro Patiño, the Best of Late Nite Jury Prize goes to Johnny Rey Diaz's "Miracle Wood".
 
Someone to Watch Award : Lucy Porter, Bits
Jury Statement:  The 2024 Late Nite Jury was impressed with this year's daring curation, and 
would like to give a special mention to "Bits" creator Lucy Porter as someone to watch for her boldness of voice and cheeky blend of comedy and pathos.

Panel of Experts: Sarah Minnie (Head of Artist Development + Production, OTV - Open Television), Kyle Castellanet (VP, Development and Production, Echo Lake Entertainment), Christine Davila (TV Development Executive and Producer, Chicana from Chicago) 
 
Pitch-A-Thon Winner: The Haunting of Trisha Lozada 
Creator: Robyn Matuto 
Producer: Malachi Ellis

​THE HAUNTING OF TRISHA LOZADA is a half-hour supernatural comedy series that follows 16-year-old Trisha Lozada as she enters the winter semester of junior year. Anxious, angry, and apathetic all at once, Trisha is hellbent on a sense of normalcy and raising her social status returning to school... it’s too bad the ghost of her overbearing Filipino-immigrant mother, Marian Lozada, is haunting her every step. Now, Trisha must deal with Marian’s unwanted opinions on everything, from her plummeting grades to her social status and an unexpected crush on the new girl, Casey. They may butt heads at every turn, but together, Trisha and Marian must help each other move on – both spiritually and emotionally.
 
Jury Statement: Thank you to all of the 2024 pitchers! Each pitch exhibited passion, bravery and intention for their stories, which made this decision extremely difficult. This year the jury selected, “The Haunting of Trisha Lozada” as the 2024 Pitch-A-Thon’s winner.  The jury connected to the stories nance examining family lineages and dynamics, authentic rich cultural landscape, and they appreciated the organic playful banter within the team’s confident and well informed pitch.

​Independent Pilot Competition Drama: Neo-Dome 
Independent Pilot Competition Comedy: The Boy Who Was Afraid of Everything
Independent Pilot Competition Unscripted: THE DOUG HEIR STORY 
Digital Short Series: Barden and Sarah Start a Pandemic 
Late Night: Miracle Wood 
Best International: C*A*U*G*H*T (Australia)
 
ABOUT SERIESFEST
SeriesFest is a non-profit organization dedicated to championing artists at the forefront of episodic storytelling. With year-round educational programs, initiatives supporting underserved voices, and professional development opportunities, SeriesFest inspires, educates, and connects a worldwide community of creators. Each year, SeriesFest culminates in a highly curated and celebrated Denver-based festival and marketplace. Dedicated to showcasing innovative episodic content, the annual festival also includes in-competition independent pilot screenings, network television premieres, panels, workshops, international series, networking events, parties, and a Closing Night Event.
Follow @SeriesFest on Twitter.

April really is quite the exciting time to be television fan. In part, because the summer television season is on the horizon and that has become quite the event. But more so because… SeriesFest is always on the horizon in April, and it really is the premier celebration of episodic storytelling and it never fails to impress with its programming lineup and well… there’s just excitement hanging in the air for anyone that plans to attend this amazing festival, and well, it just so happens that SeriesFest added a little fuel to the excitement fire today.

For earlier, SeriesFest released its final lineup for SeriesFest: Season 10 and wow… is that lineup impressive. Because more amazing screenings have been added to the lineup, the kind that will allow for fans that attend this event to experience even more diverse storytelling through and through. Not to mention, there are some powerful celebrations on the horizon and even more fun to be had during this year’s closing ceremonies, and well… since you’re here because you’re likely counting down the days to SeriesFest: Season 10, here is that final lineup, to help you properly plan for one incredible festival.   

'Denver, Colorado - April 18, 2024 - SeriesFest, the esteemed international festival and non-profit organization dedicated to championing emerging and underrepresented voices in episodic storytelling, today revealed new additions rounding out its full lineup for Season 10, May 1-5, 2024 in Denver, Colorado. 

Mark Duplass, award-winning actor, filmmaker and producer, will receive the “Excellence in Acting” Award during his previously announced “Innovation Talk.” As an actor, Mark has appeared in a wide range of film and television projects including the Apple TV+ series “The Morning Show” for which he received a 2020 Emmy nomination and a 2022 Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Mark was also one of the stars of the acclaimed HBO show “Togetherness,” a series he co-created with his brother Jay. Under their banner Duplass Brothers Productions, Mark Duplass, Jay Duplass and Mel Eslyn create original projects for film, television, and digital media.

“Mark Duplass's exceptional talent and contributions to the industry make him a fitting recipient of our 'Excellence in Acting' Award, symbolizing the caliber of creativity we celebrate,” comments Randi Kleiner, CEO and Co-Founder, SeriesFest.  

Also joining the Season 10 lineup:  

• Innovation Talk with Daymond John and Independent Creator Emil Pinnock:  An insightful conversation with the CEO of The Shark Group and star of ABC's Shark Tank on his career and strategy when navigating the intersections between entrepreneurship and storytelling.

 

• Screening & Panel - “Acapulco” Season Three: Apple TV+ presents a special  season three screening followed by a Q&A session featuring cast Camilla Perez and Fernando Carsa; co-creator & showrunner Austin Winsberg and showrunner Sam Laybourne.  

 

• Screening & Panel - “Resident Alien” Season Three: Universal Content Productions presents a season three screening followed by a Q&A with star Sara Tomko and creator, executive Producer, writer Chris Sheridan.

 

• Panel - Spotlight on SAG-AFTRA Leadership: Featuring a unique conversation with actors Linda Powell (SAG-AFTRA Executive Vice President), Shari Belafonte (SAG-AFTRA Vice President, Actors/Performers) and Jodi Long ( SAG-AFTRA Vice President, Los Angeles and Los Angeles Local President) about how standing in solidarity forged a new path for the union.

 

• Special Event - Storyteller’s Live Read of “Grave Affairs” written by Harold Abrams with Denzel Whitaker (“The Great Debaters”) directing and performances by actor Chiké Okonkwo (“La Brea”) and others. 

 

• International Spotlight Screening & Panel - “C*A*U*G*H*T”:  An Australian comedy series produced by Deeper Water Films, Little Bird Films, Sean Penn and Stan in association with Fremantle. A screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring director, producer, creator, star Kick Gurry, stars Lincoln Younes and Alexander England, composer Richard Breakspear and editor Eric Von Doymi.

 

• Special Event - How to Build a Pitch Deck with EP Michael Rucker and Canva: Executive Producer Michael Rucker (“101 Places to Party Before You Die”, “Project Runway”) shares insights on the pitch process as Canva works with the audience to build a pitch deck in real time

 

• Special Event/Closing Night - “Cowboy Carter” Dance Party at iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre featuring Young Guru and special guests. 

Kleiner adds: "As we approach this monumental tenth season, SeriesFest remains steadfast in our commitment to amplifying diverse voices and leaders breaking boundaries in the entertainment industry.”  

SeriesFest is a non-profit organization dedicated to championing artists at the forefront of episodic storytelling. With year-round educational programs, initiatives supporting underserved voices, and professional development opportunities, SeriesFest inspires, educates, and connects a worldwide community of creators. Each year, SeriesFest culminates in a highly curated and celebrated Denver-based festival and marketplace. Dedicated to showcasing innovative episodic content, the annual festival also includes in-competition independent pilot screenings, network television premieres, panels, workshops, international series, networking events, parties and a Closing Night Event at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. 

SeriesFest: Season 10, May 1-5, 2024 is presented with generous support from the following sponsors: Canva, Once Upon A Time Productions, Liberty Global, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Denver Film, Caz Matthews, Xfinity, and United Airlines, along with generous support from the SCFD. SeriesFest’s Closing Night Event at Red Rocks Amphitheatre is supported by Deadline Hollywood.

SeriesFest: Season 10 badges and Gala Tickets are on sale now and available here. 


For up-to-date information, please sign up for the newsletter at www.seriesfest.com.'

ERIESFEST: SEASON 10 SCHEDULE 
*Run Date Order; New Events Listed First*

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 2024

“UNCONVENTIONAL” - INDEPENDENT ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT SCREENING AND PANEL - SPECIAL EVENT
In Attendance: Creator Kit Williamson, executive producer/actor Miranda Bailey, producer/actor James Bland and actor Aubrey Shea  

From Kit Williamson, creator of the Emmy-winning series EastSiders on Netflix, Unconventional follows two eccentric, queer siblings and their significant others, as they try to start an unconventional family, try to stay sane in an unstable world and, most importantly, try to hold onto the bonds they share.

“ESTONIA” (FINLAND, SWEDEN, BELGIUM, ESTONIA) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING - *COLORADO PREMIERE* 

A gripping drama based on the sinking of the MS Estonia, one of the deadliest maritime disasters in European history. 

“A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE FUTURE” (PBS) - OPENING NIGHT SPECIAL EVENT - NETWORK SCREENING AND PANEL
In Attendance: Host, Ari Wallach, co-founder of Futurific 
 
Hosted by futurist Ari Wallach, the non-fiction documentary series challenges the dystopian framework embraced by popular culture by offering a refreshing take on the future exploring potential solutions to our existential threats. The program invites viewers to imagine a world that is full of discovery, hope, and possibility – inspiring each of us to understand our power to shape the future that future generations need us to so they can flourish.


THURSDAY, MAY 2, 2024

*NEW ADDITION: ACAPULCO, SEASON 3 (APPLE TV+) - NETWORK SCREENING AND PANEL 
In Attendance: Camilla Perez (Cast), Fernando Carsa (Cast), Austin Winsberg (Co-Creator & Showrunner) and Sam Laybourne (Showrunner)

In season three of “Acapulco,” it’s time to reconcile past mistakes and exciting new beginnings. In the present story, older Máximo finds himself returning to a Las Colinas he no longer recognizes. While in 1985, younger Máximo continues his climb up the ladder of success while potentially jeopardizing all the relationships he’s worked so hard to build.

STORYTELLER’S INITIATIVE LIVE READ OF “GRAVE AFFAIRS” - SPECIAL EVENT
In Attendance: Denzel Whitaker (“The Great Debaters”) and Chiké Okonkwo (“La Brea”)

A dramady about a disgraced funeral planner who returns home to rebuild her reputation and reclaim her dominance in the competitive and sometimes funny death business. 

A CONVERSATION WITH UNIVERSAL STUDIO GROUP’S TV DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVES - PANEL
In Attendance: Kelsey Balance (SVP, Global Scripted Series, Universal International Studios),Vivian Cannon (EVP, Drama Development, Universal Television), Jim Donnelly (EVP, Comedy Development, Universal Television), Monica Rodman (EVP, Development, Universal Television Alternative Studio), Marc Velez (SVP and Head of Development, UCP)
 
From assessing pitches to staffing writers' rooms to offering script notes and more, Universal Studio Group's television executives dive deep into their development processes and share what makes for a strong, mutually advantageous relationship between creators and a studio.

IT'S IN THE DETAILS: COSTUME DESIGN FOR TELEVISION - PANEL
In Attendance: Terry Dresbach (“Outlander,” “Rounders”), Lyn Elizabeth Paolo (“Queen Charlotte”), Johnetta Boone (“Yellowstone”), Salvador Perez (“The Mindy Project,” “Hocus Pocus 2,” “Never Have I Ever”)
  
No matter the genre or time period, costumes are key in conveying the core of the story in TV drama and comedies. Driven by the details, Costume Designers tirelessly research contemporary and vintage fashion trends and lifestyles in the pursuit of deepening the connection to the character for both the performer and the audience. Join SeriesFest for an in depth conversation into this unsung art form with Costume Designers from some of your favorite series. 

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY - PANEL
In Attendance:  Jocelyn Sabo (SVP, Television Development, Lionsgate), Tom Verica (Head of Creative Production, Executive Producer, Director, Shondaland), Melissa Myers (Producer/Manager), Jennifer Loren (Senior Director, Cherokee Film), Diana Williams (CEO & Co-founder of Kinetic Energy Entertainment) and Jennifer Gwartz (Executive VP, UCP) 

Episodic storytelling has seen epic levels of success in recent years, but with streaming wars, corporate mergers, and an overwhelming amount of available content, the landscape is constantly shifting. Join entertainment industry leaders for a discussion on emerging trends, what distributors are currently looking for, and predictions for what’s next.

“SPLIT” (FRANCE) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL *NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE*
In Attendance: Ralph Amoussou (star)  

Anna, a 30-year-old stuntwoman, meets Ève, the movie star she doubles. A trouble sits on the movie set. The meeting with Ève turns Anna's whole life upside down, is she ready to leave heterosexuality?

THE METHODS OF MULTI-HYPHENATES - PANEL
In Attendance: Alysia Reiner (“Orange is the New Black”), Christy Carlson Romano (“Kim Possible”), Michelle Hurd (“Anyone But You,” “Star Trek: Picard”)
 
Pursuing their passions through multiple avenues, these Multi-Hyphenates are taking on the entertainment industry and beyond. It can't be denied that the combination of creativity, entrepreneurial drive, and social platforms is impacting the business of television and forging new pathways for artists onscreen and behind the camera. Join SeriesFest for a BTS conversation with a versatile group of Multi-Hyphenates on navigating the business and using the power of storytelling to create change.


FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2024

INNOVATION TALK: BEATRICE SPRINGBORN - PANEL 
In Attendance: Beatrice Springborn, President, UCP and Universal International Studios

Join SeriesFest for a one-on-one conversation with Beatrice Springborn, President of two renowned global television studios, UCP and Universal International Studios. Springborn will shine a light on the creative strategy behind the studios’ acclaimed programming, her team’s collaborative process with best-in-class storytellers and what’s next on the horizon.

DROPPING GEMS: HOW “NEW AMSTERDAM” USED MASTERFUL STORYTELLING TO INFORM ITS AUDIENCE- NETWORK SCREENING & PANEL 
In Attendance: Star, Jocko Sims, creator/showrunner David Schulner, esteemed medical professionals Dr. Nia Mitchell (Mile High Medical Society), Dr. Jandel Allen-Davis (President and CEO of Craig Hospital), Dr. Michelle Albert (immediate-past president American Heart Association); Moderator: Van Lathan, TV personality, Podcast host and Academy Award-winning producer 
Join us for a conversation with star, Jocko Sims, and creator, David Schulner along with Dr. Nia Mitchell, Dr. Jandel Allen-Davis, and Dr. Michelle Albert as we watch one of New Amsterdam’s most memorable episodes, and discuss how the lack of black doctors in America’s healthcare system impacts everyone. Author and Academy Award winner, Van Lathan moderates as television creators and real medical professionals bring insight, as we move ever closer towards answering the famous New Amsterdam mantra, “How can I help?”
LEGACY IN TELEVISION: “GREY'S ANATOMY” - PANEL
In Attendance: showrunner Meg Marinis, actors Kim Raver, James Pickens Jr, Kevin McKidd, Camilla Luddingon and Caterina Scorsone

For almost two decades, audiences have immersed themselves in the sweepingly romantic and operatic lives of the staff at Seattle Grace Hospital. Shondaland’s “Grey’s Anatomy” has consistently tackled hot-button issues through the eyes of its compelling characters navigating moral and ethical quandaries we can all relate to.

At SeriesFest: Season 10, we will invite fans and filmmakers to celebrate the impact of “Grey’s Anatomy” with the cast and creators at the inaugural Legacy in Television Panel.

MENTORSHIP AND COLLABORATION: A CONVERSATION WITH THE TEAM BEHIND "DR. DEATH" - PANEL
In Attendance: Patrick Macmanus (Creator/Executive Producer, “Dr. Death”), Ashley Michel Hoban (Showrunner/Executive Producer, “Dr. Death”), Beatrice Springborn (President, UCP and Universal International Studios), Kelly Funke (President, Littleton Road Productions)

Join the team behind “Dr. Death” for a discussion on the making of the show’s second season, the importance of mentorship in the television industry and the collaborative development process between UCP and Littleton Road Productions.

“THIS IS NOT SWEDEN” (SPAIN, SWEDEN, GERMANY, FINLAND) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE*
In Attendance: Aina Clotet (Director/Executive Producer/Writer/Star), Marcel Borràs (Star), Marta Baldó (Executive Producer) 

THIS IS NOT SWEDEN shows the contradictions faced by a young couple when it comes to protecting their children from the dangers of life. Winner of the Prix Europa Award for Best TV Fiction and selected in Official Competition in Cannes Series.

SERIESFEST SOIREE - SPECIAL EVENT 
A special night marking the festival’s momentous 10th anniversary. The prestigious gala will honor Shondaland & Betsy Beers, SAG-AFTRA and Minnie Driver with “Impact in Television,” “Luminaries in Television,” and “Excellence in Acting” Awards. SeriesFest’s esteemed Advisory Board, notable talent and industry executives will be in attendance. 

SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2024

*NEW ADDITION: C*A*U*G*H*T (AUSTRALIA) -  INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL *U.S. PREMIERE*
In Attendance: Kick Gurry (Director, Producer, Creator and Cast), Lincoln Younes (Cast), Alexander England (Cast), Richard Breakspear (Composer) and Eric Von Doymi (Editor). 

Starring Sean Penn, Kick Gurry, Matthew Fox and Ben O’Toole, C*A*U*G*H*T follows four Australian soldiers sent on a secret mission to a war-torn country. Mistaken for Americans, they are captured by freedom fighters and produce a hostage video that goes viral. When the soldiers reach celebrity status, they realise that being caught might just be the best thing that could’ve happened to them. 


*NEW ADDITION: “RESIDENT ALIEN” SEASON 3 (SYFY/PEACOCK) -  NETWORK SCREENING AND Q&A
In Attendance: Chris Sheridan (Creator, Executive Producer, Writer) and Sara Tomko (Cast)

Based on the Dark Horse comics, SYFY’s “Resident Alien” follows a crash-landed alien named Harry (Alan Tudyk) whose secret mission is to kill all humans. In season three, Harry is vowing to work with General McCallister (Linda Hamilton) to rid the Earth of the Grey aliens – a task made more difficult when he discovers that the Grey Hybrid Joseph (Enver Gjokaj) has taken a job in town as the new Deputy.  Joseph isn’t Harry’s only obstacle – Harry struggles to balance business and his personal life when he falls in love for the first time.  Meanwhile, Asta (Sara Tomko) and D’arcy (Alice Wetterlund) move in together and struggle to discover their purpose in the world, Sheriff Mike (Corey Reynolds) and Deputy Liv (Elizabeth Bowen) continue their quest to find out who killed the Alien Tracker, and Ben (Levi Fiehler) and Kate (Meredith Garretson) are forced to deal with the subconscious repercussions of their alien abductions.

*NEW ADDITION:  SPOTLIGHT ON SAG-AFTRA LEADERSHIP - PANEL  
In Attendance: Linda Powell (SAG-AFTRA Executive Vice President), Shari Belafonte (SAG-AFTRA Vice President, Actors/Performers) and Jodi Long (SAG AFTRA Vice President, Los Angeles and Los Angeles Local President)

Last year was an unprecedented period for the entertainment industry as a whole, but through incredible strength and perseverance, actors were afforded necessary advancements to maintain their position in the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood. Throughout the 2023 strike, the Leadership team of SAG-AFTRA fearlessly navigated key issues and fought for equitable practices on behalf of 160,000+ members of their union. Join us for a special conversation spotlighting the elected leaders of SAG-AFTRA and how standing in solidarity forged a new path for its members.

*NEW ADDITION: HOW TO BUILD A PITCH DECK WITH EP MICHAEL RUCKER AND CANVA- PANEL + WORKSHOP

Ever wondered how easy it is to build a Pitch Deck with Canva? Join Executive Producer Michael Rucker (“101 Places to Party Before You Die”, “Project Runway”) and Canva for this interactive breakfast session, where Michael shares insights on the pitch process and we work with the audience to come up with our next TV pilot idea...bringing it to life in less than 30 minutes using Canva’s entertainment templates and Magic features.

INNOVATION TALK: BETSY BEERS - PANEL
In Attendance: Betsy Beers, television and film producer, “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal,” “Private Practice,” “How to Get Away with Murder”

Join SeriesFest for our signature Innovation Talk series as we celebrate the incredible career of Shondaland's trailblazing Creative Partner, Betsy Beers. As a longtime producing partner of Shonda Rhimes, there is no shortage of the groundbreaking series they have created together under the Shondaland banner. This special event will highlight Beers' unique approach to storytelling and how she navigates the shifting landscape of the entertainment industry.

“HARRY WILD” SEASON 3 (AMC AND ACORN TV) - NETWORK SCREENING AND Q&A
In Attendance: Award-winning Jane Seymour

Star and executive producer Jane Seymour returns as Harriet “Harry” Wild, a retiring university literature professor who is finding herself at one of life’s crossroads. In season three, Harry and Fergus are back to solve a collection of intriguing crimes. This season, the pair are hired to prove the lead singer of Ireland’s hottest boy band didn’t kill himself, find out who decapitated a woman in a busy restaurant, discover who murdered a despotic director on the set of Ireland’s leading daytime soap opera, work out how a mystery writer managed to shoot himself in a locked panic room without a gun, and more. Meanwhile, with the agency still as busy as ever, Harry and Fergus have to find a way to balance work and life as Fergus plans to contest Paula’s custody claim to his sister. 

CELEBRATING WOMEN IN SHOWRUNNING - PANEL
In Attendance: Nkechi Okoro Carroll (“All American,” “All American: Homecoming”), Ashley Michel Hoban (“The Girl from Plainville,“ “Dr. Death”) and Michelle Paradise (“Star Trek: Discovery”) 

Back by popular demand, SeriesFest is proud to present a special panel conversation in celebration of women Showrunners breaking the glass ceiling of the television industry. These Showrunners are forging new paths for storytellers of all generations and genders by championing new perspectives that reflect shared experiences on our screens. Join us for a powerful conversation spotlighting the challenges, triumphs, and hopes of the revolutionary Female showrunners behind some of your favorite series.

“ZORRO”  (SPAIN, MEXICO) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *WORLD PREMIERE* 
In Attendance: Javier Quintas (Director) & Sergio Pizzolante (Executive Producer and President, Secuoya Studios Commercial & Distribution) 

Determined to find out who killed his father, Diego de la Vega will assume the title of Zorro and discover family secrets that will change his destiny forever.

SUNDAY, MAY 5, 2024

*NEW ADDITION: INNOVATION TALK: DAYMOND JOHN AND INDEPENDENT CREATOR EMIL PINNOCK  - PANEL
In Attendance: Daymond John, CEO of The Shark Group, and independent creator Emil Pinnock

Best known as the impeccably dressed star investor of ABC’s Shark Tank, Daymond John is the face of American entrepreneurship, managing a multi-million-dollar empire that encompasses fashion, philanthropy and media. Join SeriesFest for an insightful conversation with the CEO of The Shark Group about his career and how he is working with independent creators to navigate the natural intersections between entrepreneurship and storytelling.

*NEW ADDITION: “COWBOY CARTER” DANCE PARTY - SPECIAL EVENT FOR CLOSING NIGHT
In Attendance: Young Guru (DJ)

It’s a wrap! Celebrate Season 10 at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre! Grab your friends for a “real life hoedown” celebrating Beyonce’s record breaking album, “Cowboy Carter,” alongside her greatest hits. Featuring Young Guru and special guests, the event promises to be an unforgettable night of dancing and music under the stars.

INNOVATION TALK: MARK DUPLASS & MEL ESLYN WITH SPECIAL SCREENING OF “PENELOPE” - SCREENING AND PANEL
In Attendance: Award-winning actor, screenwriter, producer, Mark Duplass and Mel Eslyn (PENELOPE co-creator, showrunner, director)

Making independent film and tv is hard work and doesn’t come with a “how to” handbook but, fortunately, SeriesFest has a conversation to help. Join us for an in-depth conversation with Duplass Brothers Productions on how their innovative approach to production and packaging independent content is leading a revolution. Plus, Duplass will receive an inaugural “Excellence in Acting” Award for his pioneering work in independent television and film.

“LOST BOYS & FAIRIES” (UNITED KINGDOM) -  INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE* 
In Attendance: Daf James (Creator, Writer, Executive Producer, Music Director), Sion Daniel Young (actor)

A glittering and ground-breaking drama, exploring the themes of parents, children and gay
adoption. Fusing queer culture with a powerful family drama, this is a bold, heart-wrenching
story, filled with humour and love.

“HAVEN OF GRACE” (FRANCE) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *U.S. PREMIERE*
In Attendance: Actor Astrid Whettnall, Creator, Maxime Crupaux

While celebrating his 60th birthday with his family, Pierre's sons are arrested for drug trafficking.​​

It is definitely safe to say that the comic convention scene is not what it once was. For these events, used to be can’t miss in nature and truly were a reunion of sorts with old friends. Wherein good times were the focus as was making memories. But alas, the convention circuit has become less about the fan experience and more about profits and sales, and that’s brought forth a desire to skip some shows because of incredible changes to the marketplace. Wherein the  largest shows in the nation are owned by some kind of corporate-esque entity to maximize those profits, and their power is pushing smaller conventions out of the marketplace, and some of the indie cons that pop up to take their place are just eager to make a quick buck.

But the good news is, there are still some places where you can go, where the magic of the convention experience still lives and where a relaxed and fun environment exists, and it just so happens that a con that harbors all of that wonder is about to get underway in Fort Collins, Colorado. For this weekend Wicked West Comic Expo will take place, a convention now in its third year and well, you’re likely curious how it accomplishes such warm feats in an era of profits over fun, and well… the formula WWCE puts forth to recapture the fan experience, is simple in nature. In that, it caters to the community and the experience over anything else, and those elements alone make it worth your while. 

Because when you walk through the doors of The Ranch, the event’s venue, you feel no pressure or urgent desire to see everything in a hurried fashion as you do at bigger conventions. You’re just greeted with an intelligent floor plan that puts vendors and their works front and center, with big guests peppered in and that allows for one to just walk about, check out wares and do something that doesn’t happen enough at cons… have a conversation with the artist or guest. Because it is just a laid-back environment here, even when the convention gets busy, and does indeed get busy. But that down home feel of the place, never adds pressure. You just go about your conversation and have a great time and the wonder of this con doesn’t end there.

After all, we mentioned that community is a focus, and this convention supports all communities, including the local, and the conventional community. Because so many of us love going to a con and reuniting with our friends and just hanging out and having laughs and that is what you’ll find here. That old school sense of con community, of fun, of a place where everyone belongs and can celebrate their love of pop culture in all the right ways. Not to mention it is also a celebration of art, artists, and all things creative as evidenced by its robust celebrity lineup. The kind that features talented actors and artists from across so many mediums. But what matters most… is that this is a convention that harbors something for everyone.

Since there’s entertainment for kids and young adults, and plenty for parents to see and enjoy, and it really is wonderful to know that in the midst of this fight for dollars, there are still conventions that want everyone to have a memorable experience. One that will last a lifetime and keep them coming back for more and that is what Wicked West Comic Expo accomplishes, and if by chance you’re now intrigued by this delightful convention and wish to attend, just visit WWCE’s website here, and snag your tickets to the best independent convention in the state of Colorado. One that cherishes the fan and the experience over anything else.

Ask any science fiction fan what they think of Ronald D. Moore, and their eyes will light up. Simply because Mister Moore is a beloved writer in that arena, courtesy of what he’s done for the genre over the past few decades. After all, Ronald was responsible for fleshing out the Klingon Mythos in Star Trek: The Next Generation, along with writing some of its most memorable episodes, and co-writing one of the most popular Trek films out there in First Contact, and the accolades on his long and winding resume do not end there.
​
After all, Ronald brought sci-fi into the 21st Century with his work in creating the acclaimed Battlestar Galactica reboot, and he continues to take the genre to bold new heights courtesy of his work on For All Mankind and Outlander. So, it should come as no surprise that earlier today, the Austin Film Festival announced that Ronald is going to be honored with the 2024 Outstanding Television Writer Award at this year’s Austin Film Festival, in addition to having his illustrious career spotlighted via several panels at the festival, and well… this is just wonderful news. For Mister Moore really is a pioneer in the industry and his work has inspired so many and well, to offer this honor the respect it deserves, here are all the details regarding this announcement, courtesy of the Austin Film Festival.

‘AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL (AFF) announced today Ronald D. Moore will receive the 2024 Outstanding Television Writer Award, celebrating his impactful contributions to the landscape of television through celebrated sci-fi shows including For All Mankind, Outlander, and Battlestar Galactica.  
At AFF’s Writers Conference, happening October 24th – 27th, Moore’s career will be highlighted on two panels: “A Conversation with Ronald D. Moore”, a discussion about his career and body of work, and “Script to Screen: Battlestar Galactica”, an analysis of the seminal miniseries from concept to completion, complete with clips from the series.    

Deeply rooted in the sci-fi genre, Moore got his start in the entertainment business on the writing staff of Star Trek: The Next Generation. During his tenure there, he wrote or co-wrote 27 episodes, including the two-hour series finale All Good Things, for which he won a Hugo Award in 1994. That same year, Moore was honored with an Emmy® Award nomination and was eventually promoted to Producer. In 1994, Moore joined the writing staff of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine as Supervising Producer and was elevated to Co-Executive Producer the following year. Moore spent five seasons on the series until the end of its successful run in 1999. Moore also served briefly as Executive Consultant on the USA cable series Good vs. Evil before joining the staff of Roswell as Executive Producer. After two seasons in that post, he took over the reins as Showrunner from creator Jason Katims in its final year. In the fall of 2002, Moore was named Showrunner and Executive Producer of HBO’s critically acclaimed one-hour drama Carnivàle.  

In 2003, Moore created the re-imagined series, Battlestar Galactica, and served as Showrunner/Executive Producer of the series, which ran for four seasons.  Battlestar Galactica was honored with a prestigious Peabody® Award and twice as an official selection of the AFI (American Film Institute) top television programs for 2005 and 2006.  In 2006, Moore was nominated for an Emmy® Award for Best Writing in a Dramatic Series, and in 2008, he won an Emmy® for the Battlestar Galactica webisodes. In 2008, Moore co-wrote the pilot to the spin-off series Caprica, a drama set 58 years before the events of Battlestar Galactica. He served as Executive Producer for the run of the series. In 2010, Moore’s production company, Tall Ship Productions, signed an overall deal with Sony Television to develop and produce television series. Under the Tall Ship banner, Moore is currently producing the Golden Globes®-nominated series Outlander for Starz and For All Mankind for Apple TV+, and previously served as Executive Producer on the Amazon/Channel 4 anthology series, Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams, as well as the SyFy original series, Helix.  

After a decade with Sony Television, Tall Ship Productions inked an overall deal with Disney’s 20th Television in 2020, where Ron is currently developing new television projects. Moore is a native of Chowchilla, California and attended Cornell University, where he studied political science. He lives in New York with his wife, Terry. He has three children – Robin, Roxy and Jonathan. 

Austin Film Festival’s Writers Conference, happening October 24th – 27th, will again present over 150 panels on the art, craft, and business of storytelling, featuring a slate of prominent industry professionals working in film, television, and new media, including previously announced recipient of the 2024 Polly Platt Award for Producing Kathleen Kennedy. 

ABOUT AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL & WRITERS CONFERENCE Entering its thirty-first year, Austin Film Festival & Writers Conference is a non-profit organization dedicated to furthering the art, craft and business of writers and filmmakers and recognizing their contributions to film, television, theater, and new media. AFF champions the work of aspiring and established storytellers by providing unique cultural events and services, enhancing public awareness and participation, and encouraging dynamic and long-lasting community partnerships. This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of The City of Austin Economic Development Department and Texas Commission on the Arts. The 31st Annual Austin Film Festival will take place October 24 – 31, 2024. All attendees and events are based on permitting schedules and are subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. Badges and passes are available for purchase online at www.austinfilmfestival.com or by phone at 1-800-310-FEST. 

ABOUT THE OUTSTANDING TELEVISION WRITER AWARD 
Introduced in 2000, the Outstanding Television Writer Award highlights the artistic achievements and contributions of television creators and their importance in shaping the landscape of serialized storytelling. Past award recipients include Damon Lindelof (2023), Michael Schur (2021), Keenen Ivory Wayans (2017), Marta Kauffman (2016), Norman Lear (2015), and David Chase (2000).’