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Creative · Residency

Sundance Institute Screenwriters Lab

Days leftClosedJanuary 30, 2026

All Information

The Sundance Institute Screenwriters Lab is a prestigious 4–5 day intensive development program for emerging filmmakers working on first or second fiction feature films. It is part of the Sundance Feature Film Program and focuses on helping writers develop their screenplays through deep mentorship, script sessions, and creative feedback from established filmmakers and advisors.

Requirements checklist

  1. 01

    Career Stage

    • Applicants must be: • First-time or second-time fiction feature writers • Writer-directors or writer-director teams • ❌ Not eligible if you have more than two produced fiction feature films.

  2. 02

    Project Requirement

    • You must submit: • A fiction feature screenplay (in development) • Strong artistic vision and originality • A clear directorial or storytelling voice

  3. 03

    International Eligibility

    • Open to both U.S. and international filmmakers • International projects must usually have a director attached

  4. 04

    Artistic Strength

    • Sundance looks for: • Bold, original storytelling • Strong cinematic voice • Emotional and cultural depth • Innovative approach to film language

  5. 05

    Submission Materials (typical)

    • Applicants usually submit: • Cover letter (project + vision) • Artistic statement • Biography • Screenplay sample (first pages + full script later if shortlisted) • Optional visual materials (lookbook, deck)