Stage 32 + Mammoth Pictures Search for New Blood Screenwriting Contest

The Grand Prize Winning screenwriter will get into a script development incubator and packaging fast track with Stage 32 & Mammoth Pictures, the producers behind the successful horror/thrillers THE NIGHT, PARALLEL, and more!

Mammoth Pictures will review all Semi-Finalist loglines - eligible for script requests!

PLUS -- All Top 10 Finalists will be eligible for mentorships with execs from
Amazon Studios & Producers on ORPHAN, ORPHAN KILL and SKINAMARINK.

Fresh off the release of the hit thriller PARALLEL, starring Aldis Hodge and Danielle Deadwyler, Mammoth Pictures founders Kourosh Ahari and Alex Bretow are partnering with Stage 32 to find the next undiscovered horror writing talents. The producers, who've built a company making prestige horror/thriller films for international markets, will work directly with Stage 32 through the Stage 32 Search for New Blood Screenwriting Contest.

Mammoth Pictures will be personally reviewing semi-finalist loglines and all top 10 finalist scripts, with winners selected based on both creative merit and commercial viability. The selected writers will receive script development, industry mentorship, and potential production pathways designed to fast-track emerging writers. Both Stage 32 and Mammoth Pictures will jointly package developed projects for production.

"This partnership with Stage 32 is deeply aligned with what we believe at Mammoth Pictures — that great storytelling knows no borders. We’re excited to build new bridges for filmmakers who are ready to bring fresh, daring visions to the screen," said Kourosh Ahari, co-founder of Mammoth Pictures.

"We've witnessed incredible writers emerge from their platform. With Stage 32's global reach combined with our international production expertise, we're creating an unprecedented opportunity for writers from all backgrounds to see their stories brought to life across multiple markets," added Alex Bretow, co-founder of Mammoth Pictures.

"Mammoth Pictures represents exactly the kind of visionary production partner we seek," said Stage 32 CEO Richard "RB" Botto. "Kourosh and Alex have demonstrated an incredible ability to discover and develop compelling narratives that resonate globally while breaking new ground. Their commitment to meaningful storytelling aligns perfectly with Stage 32's 14-year mission to launch careers for undiscovered talent and to find undeniable material that can be put into production."

"In an industry where breaking in seems increasingly difficult, we're continuing to create a direct pipeline from undiscovered talent to professional development," added Geoffroy Faugerolas, Stage 32's Director of Development Services. "This is about discoverability, access and launching careers."

The best horror movies meld our deepest fears into intense atmospheres with gripping suspense, strong character development, exciting jump scares, and unexpected twists to keep audiences on the edge of our seats.

From the techno-slashing antics of MEGAN 2.0, to the totally fun and upsetting concept of DROP, to the supernatural scares and psychological terror of BRING HER BACK, audiences can’t get enough exciting horror storytelling. This year alone, classic horror franchises like 28 YEARS LATER, I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER, and FINAL DESTINATION were rebooted, proving a great story can last for decades. The appetite for amazing horror projects is insatiable, and we want your story to be the next smash hit!

AS SEEN ON VARIETY

The Grand Prize Winning screenwriter will receive:

• Mammoth Pictures Talent Incubator placement for script development and packaging with Mammoth Pictures (THE NIGHT, PARALLEL)

• Career Accelerator Prize Package ($4,000 value) including script development, career consulting, writer branding, and comprehensive education resources
• Personal Mentorship Track with dedicated 1:1 career development sessions from our success team
• Industry Marketing Campaign promoting winner to our exclusive roster of 2,500+ managers, agents, producers, and executives
• Strategy Partnership where Stage 32 and Mammoth Pictures executives collaborate to prepare your project to take directly to market

Our Finalists will receive:

Our Finalists will receive a Career Momentum prize package valued at $1,500, including Career Development, a Writer Branding Workshop and an Education package, and will have your logline featured in a Stage 32 Look Book sent to over 2,500+ top entertainment industry executives, giving your work unparalleled exposure!

But that’s not all! Everyone who makes the Semi-Finals will receive a Career Breakthrough prize package valued at $1,000, our Quarterfinalists will receive a Career Elevation prize package valued at $500, and all Entrants will get a prize package valued at $100!

Last year's New Blood winner, Travis J. Opgenorth optioned his winning script THE WHISPERERS to Producer Jeremy Elliott of Broken Time Entertainment through a meeting set up by Stage 32. Travis also received multiple offers to sign with literary managers, eventually signing with Marc Manus of Persistent Entertainment.

"I’m Travis J. Opgenorth, winner of Stage 32’s Search for New Blood Competition, and my experience with Stage 32 has been above and beyond expectations. Stage 32 introduced me to nearly a dozen industry pros—people like manager Jake Wagner, and producers like Ethan Erwin and Jeremy Elliott. It was a level of exposure not many contest organizers can match, and it resulted in Jeremy Elliott optioning my winning script.

Open to Feature Film and TV Pilot Scripts!

What Type of Scripts Are We Looking For?

We are looking for Feature scripts like:

BRING HER BACK, TALK TO ME, FINAL DESTINATION, SCREAM, I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER, M3GAN, WOLFMAN, TERRIFIER, SMILE, WATCHERS, CUCKOO, IT'S WHAT'S INSIDE, V/H/S, NIGHT SWIM, LONGLEGS, 5 NIGHTS AT FREDDY'S, EVIL DEAD, LATE NIGHT WITH THE DEVIL, THANKSGIVING, FRIDAY THE 13TH, FEAR STREET

As well as TV pilot scripts like:

AMERICAN HORROR STORY, STRANGER THINGS, FROM, THE WALKING DEAD, SUPERNATURAL, EVIL, PENNY DREADFUL, THE TERROR, THE LAST OF US, RESIDENT EVIL, WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS, TWISTED METAL, GOOSEBUMPS, THE HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE, THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER, LORE, HAUNTED

But that's not all, we want to see all new, unique and fresh ideas that we haven't seen before!

For the last 13 years, Stage 32 Contests have led to dozens of success stories including writers getting representation, sold, optioned, staffed, given writing assignments and getting produced. No other contest opens more doors and we want to do the same for you.

If you have an horror story that needs to be told, now is the time to show us what you've got, because our goal is to amplify your voice, give you the access Stage 32 is known for, and take your writing career to the next level!

Who Is Mammoth Pictures?

 Co-founded in 2016 by Iranian-American director Kourosh Ahari and producer Alex Bretow, Mammoth Pictures specializes in meaningful narrative storytelling that explores the human condition, cultural identity, and psychological depth through deeply personal stories that transcend borders. The company's debut project, GENERATIONS, was executive produced by Tom Hanks and garnered international attention. Their breakthrough feature THE NIGHT (2020, IFC Films) made history as the first U.S.-produced film to receive theatrical release in Iran since 1979, while PARALLEL (2024, Vertical Entertainment) continued their tradition of genre-crossing narratives with global resonance. They’re currently searching for stories that feel lived in, that carry the emotional weight of a writer’s personal experience; the kind of genre storytelling that not only entertains, but also invites audiences to see the world from a new perspective.

Additional Judges

Additionally we have four more judges who are very interested in horror scripts. These horror execs will also read and judge the Top 10 finalist scripts, and potentially meet with any finalists whose writing they enjoy!

• Jeremy Elliott, Producer, Broken Time Entertainment (THE FACELESS LADY, THE GIRL IN THE WOODS)
• Nick Phillips, Producer, PBR Streetgang (PET, FEAST, HAUNT, DRACULA II & III, HELLRAISER 6 & 7, MIMIC 3)
• Jake Wagner, Literary Manager, Alibi Entertainment (BAGHEAD, POLAROID, KILLING SEASON)
• Lucas Ford, Producer, Ford Films (PORTAL TO HELL, STRANGER THINGS)

ADD-ON PRIZE OPPORTUNITIES

This optional add-on prize category will grant one eligible writer the opportunity to be mentored and have 2 virtual development meetings with the following execs:

Ethan Erwin is a writer and producer with over 15 years of experience in the industry. Erwin's films have grossed over $1.5 billion dollars worldwide, including credits such as SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS, BOOK OF ELI, UNKNOWN, THE GUNMAN, THE NICE GUYS, ORPHAN, and it's sequel, ORPHAN: FIRST KILL.

Erwin also served as a producer on SUPERFLY, starring Michael Kenneth Williams and released by Columbia Pictures, the Coen brothers-penned caper SUBURBICON, directed by George Clooney and starring Matt Damon, and WHITEOUT, directed by Dominic Sena, starring Kate Beckinsale and Gabriel Macht, and produced by Warner Brothers, in addition to the films COLLIDE, THE APPARITION, THE HILLS RUN RED, and RETURN TO HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL. He also wrote the film SOLSTICE, as well as on the CBS cult hit TV show MOONLIGHT.

Erwin has developed and produced film, television and digital projects with A-list stars, directors and writers including Robert Downey Jr., Sandra Bullock, Denzel Washington, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Matt Damon, Julianne Moore, Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, Sean Penn, Hilary Swank, Guy Ritchie, George Clooney and Shane Black.

He now serves as principal of his own production company Beryllium Entertainment.

Jonathan Barkan is an Executive Producer who has a long history in horror having started his career as the Editor-in-Chief of Dread Central and Bloody Disgusting.

His recent producing credits include Kyle Edward Ball's experimental supernatural horror SKINAMARINK (SHUDDER, IFC MIDNIGHT), MY CHERRY PIE, distributed by BayView Enterainment, as well as TV shows like ETHERIA for Amazon and DREAD: THE UNSOLVED for Dread Central. Jonathan is also credited on over two dozen feature films in which he has lent his expertise. He is currently producing MENTAL HEALTH AND HORROR, a documentary discussing the positive impact horror films can have.

He previously served as the Head of Distribution at VMI Releasing (through VMI Worldwide), and he was Head of Acquisitions and Development Director for Distribution Company at Mutiny Pictures.

Mutiny Pictures distributed the horror-thriller I AM LISA, the Drama DRIVE ALL NIGHT, and the historical drama THE MATCH. Jonathan was the VP of Feature Film Acquisitions and Distribution for The Horror Collective, where he discovered and acquired horror, thriller, and sci-fi titles. The Horror Collective's latest release is the micro-budget horror project SHIFTER.

Jonathan was also the Acquisitions Ambassador for DREAD Presents, a genre-centric distribution label under the banner of Epic Pictures Group. He has served as a jury member at various film festivals around the world, including South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, BIFAN in South Korea, Popcorn Frights in Florida, HARD: LINE in Germany, and Fantasia in Quebec, amongst others.

Jonathan loves to find elevated genre stories he can develop.

Michael is currently the Story Analyst for Amazon Studios where he covers all submissions for development that come through to Amazon. Prior to Amazon, Michael Schulman was the story analyst/script consultant for Netflix in the Original Independent Film (OIF) division.

Prior to his work with Netflix and Amazon, Michael worked at Barry Mendel Productions on the Disney lot where he was involved with the acquisition, development and production of Wes Anderson's RUSHMORE, Oscar Nominated THE SIXTH SENSE, and Spielberg's Oscar Nominated MUNICH. Michael spent two years as head of development for 4 time Oscar Nominated Michael Mann’s company where he worked on Oscar nominated ALI starring Will Smith, 5 time Oscar Winning THE AVIATOR, and TEXAS KILLING FIELDS starring Jessica Chastain.

Michael also spent years on the buyer side of film as VP of Development for Alec Baldwin’s company at Orion Pictures and subsequently for Dennis Quaid’s company at TriStar.

Michael’s consultations are designed for advanced screenwriters who are ready to take their career to the next level and start seeking professional representation. He also wants to work with writers who have their first draft, and need help brainstorming what the key elements are to keep and edit to quickly get your project market ready. You will receive an in-depth analysis of your project’s strengths and weaknesses and an accurate preview of how agents, managers, and studios would respond to the submission. Michael has presented several well-received webinars on the screenplay development and acquisition process, and he has been interviewed and frequently quoted in the industry media.

More importantly, you will get the experience of being in a producer’s meeting where the goal is to dissect the draft and get the project ready to submit to the studio. This is a deep creative scrub of your project that will provide a specific game plan for a rewrite that will help position your project in the sweet-spot of what the studios and streamers are looking for. Michael is happy to discuss strategies to effectively find the right professional representation, and—when it’s appropriate—facilitate introductions to agents, managers, and producers to help get the right eyes on your material.

Michael began his career at the William Morris Agency as an agent trainee and assistant to the worldwide head-of-talent where he worked with top actors including Richard Gere, Mel Gibson, Nicolas Cage, Denzel Washington, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Nicole Kidman. After a move to ICM, and upon promotion to agent in the motion picture literary department, Michael began representing emerging screenwriters, directors, and producers, brokering the deal for Danny Rubin’s screenplay GROUNDHOG DAY to director Harold Ramis.

This unique add-on benefit is separate from the Stage 32 Contest prizes and placements. Only projects submitted to the Stage 32 Contest AND that select this add-on are eligible for consideration in this category. Additionally, all projects that place in the Top 10 round of the competition will automatically be considered.

This contest launches careers

Recent Winners Making Waves:

Travis J. Opgenorth (2024 Winner) - Script optioned by Broken Time Entertainment and signed with Persistent Entertainment after Stage 32 introduced him to nearly a dozen industry pros.

Tanya Klein & Jim Cirile (2023 Winners) - PSYCHOPATHY set up for production with $1.5M budget, Lucas Heyne directing.

Christina Pamies - Signed by "Billion Dollar" Literary Manager Jake Wagner, then hired by StudioCanal to adapt BAGHEAD (now streaming on Shudder/AMC+).

Kevin Bachar - Winning script became THE INHABITANT (2022), produced by Lionsgate and released on Hulu.

Career-Changing Representation:

• Richard Doyle (Australia) - Signed with literary manager Will Rosenfield
• Glenn Forbes - Secured representation with Infinity Management International
• Alyssa & Griffin Devine - Signed with HG5 Entertainment, writing 2 scripts with 1 going into production
• Frank Ponce - Signed with 3 Arts Entertainment, script picked up by Atlas Entertainment, sold Evel Knievel series to USA Network
• Diana Wright - Signed to The Cartel and Abrams Artists Agency
• Jonathan Jordan - Signed by major agency Verve, script currently in production
• Greg Mania - Signed with Cohn/Torgan Management, published NPR Best Book of 2020

The Stage 32 Difference: Winners receive meetings with managers, agents, and producers - not just a trophy. Real careers launched, real movies made, real representation secured.

"Stage 32 isn't about a quick win and a pat on the back. They're serious about opening doors." - Travis J. Opgenorth

What Are the Prizes?

Our Grand Prize Winner will:

• Get into a development and packaging fast track with Mammoth Pictures, who will prepare your project to take out to market!
• Work with Stage 32 to develop additional materials on your winning script.
• Have your script logline and bio sent to our exclusive roster of agents and managers actively seeking new talent.
• Receive a free membership to the Stage 32 Writers’ Room, gaining access to over 3,000 hours of educational content and networking with industry heavyweights.
• But that's not all!

Check below for ALL our new prize packages! Including packages for Finalists, Semifinalists, Quarterfinalists, and more!

Want Script Coverage & The Ability To Submit A New Draft?

Want professional feedback on your script? We offer discounted script coverage and the option to resubmit revised drafts. Our feedback options are designed to help you polish your work and give you the best chance at success.

Stage 32 Contest Winners Have Gone on to Work With:

Important Dates to Be Aware Of

Super Early Bird Deadline: August 14th, 2025

Early Bird Deadline: September 10th, 2025

Regular Deadline: October 8th, 2025

Final Deadline: October 29th, 2025

Quarterfinalist Announcement: December 12th, 2025

Semifinalist Announcement: January 2nd, 2026

Finalist Announcement: January 16th, 2026

Winner Announcement: January 30th, 2026

If you have any questions regarding this contest, check out frequently asked questions here.

THIS YEAR'S PRIZE PACKAGES INCLUDE:

WINNER: The Career Accelerator Package - $4,000 Value

• PROJECT DEVELOPMENT with Mammoth Pictures, who will develop the winning project in house!
• Script Development Package
  • Free detailed, comprehensive story notes on your script
  • Pitch deck development to help get your winning project market-ready for you to shop
  • Logline polish for your winning project

• Career Development Package
• Free Career Development call with a top Executive
• Inclusion in the Stage 32 Finalists Lookbook which goes out to over 1,000 working industry executives
• Private Open Writing Assignment submissions for 1 year
• An exclusive workshop with our team to learn how to navigate the industry and leverage your placement

• Writer Branding Package
• A punch-up of your professional bio
• Headshot selection advice
• Portfolio guidance
• Portfolio branding tips
• Social media branding tools

• Education Package
• Free 1-year Writer’s Room Membership
• Stage 32 Webinar Library All-Access prize code (3,000+ hours of educational content)
• 1 Free Stage 32 Class
• 1 Free Stage 32 Individual Certification

FINALISTS: The Career Momentum Package - $1,500 Value

• Career Development Package
• Free Career Development call with a top Executive
• Inclusion in the Stage 32 Finalists Lookbook which goes out to over 1,000 working industry executives
• Private Open Writing Assignment submissions for 1 year
• An exclusive workshop with our team to learn how to navigate the industry and leverage your placement

• Writer Branding Workshop with an Executive
• A punch-up of your professional bio
• Headshot selection advice
• Logline polish for your finalist script

• Education Package
• Free 3-month Writer’s Room Membership
• 1 Free Stage 32 Class
• 1 Free Stage 32 Individual Certification
• 1 Free Stage 32 Webinar

SEMIFINALISTS: The Career Breakthrough Package - $1,000 Value

• Education Package
• Free 1-month Writer’s Room Membership
• 1 Free Stage 32 Class
• 1 Free Stage 32 Individual Certification
• 1 Free Stage 32 Webinar

QUARTERFINALISTS: The Career Elevation Package - $500 Value

• Education Package
  • Free 1-month Writer’s Room Membership
  • 1 Free Stage 32 Individual Certification
  • 1 Free webinar code

ALL ENTRANTS - $100 value

• Education
  • Free 1-month Writer’s Room Membership
  • 1 Free webinar code

In addition to all that, all writers receive continued support from the Stage 32 team, who work tirelessly to get you in front of decision-makers.

This contest launches careers!

Stage 32 has launched the careers of hundreds of writers over the last 12 years. Stage 32 has quickly emerged as the leading source for industry executives to uncover new talent! Is this your year to move the needle on your career?

Last year's 11th Annual New Blood winner, Travis J. Opgenorth gained massive traction on his winning script THE WHISPERERS, which was optioned by Producer Jeremy Elliott of Broken Time Entertainment through a meeting set up by Stage 32. Travis also received multiple offers to sign with literary managers, eventually signing with Literary Manager Marc Manus of Persistent Entertainment.

"I’m Travis J. Opgenorth, winner of Stage 32’s Search for New Blood Competition, and my experience with Stage 32 has been above and beyond expectations. Stage 32 introduced me to nearly a dozen industry pros—people like manager Jake Wagner, and producers like Ethan Erwin and Jeremy Elliott. It was a level of exposure not many contest organizers can match, and it resulted in Jeremy Elliott optioning my winning script.

Our 10th Annual New Blood Winners, Tanya Klein and Jim Cirile got their script PSYCHOPATHY setup for production with Lucas Heyne (MOPE) directing and Kelly Hayes (SITE), Ian Holt (FROM THE SHADOWS), and Jim Thalman of HExTC producing on currently a $1.5 million budget! 

Previous winner, Christina Pamies, was signed by "Billion Dollar" Literary Manager, Jake Wagner. After that, he got her a paid gig with StudioCanal adapting the recently released film BAGHEAD, which was co-produced by The Picture Company and released via AMC+ Networks!

VIEW THE BAGHEAD (2024) TRAILER HERE! AVAILABLE NOW ON SHUDDER!

Previous Winner, Kevin Bachar, had his winning script BLOOD RELATIVE produced and released as THE INHABITANT (2022) by Lionsgate through Gravitas Ventures and Highland Films.

VIEW THE INHABITANT (2022) TRAILER HERE! AVAILABLE NOW ON HULU!

"I have nothing but high praise for the folks at Stage 32. Because of meetings they set me up on I am now working with Mike DeTrana from Anvil Entertainment, have director John Poloquin from Grave Encounters 2 attached to my script, and an option for financing from Three Point Capital. One of the meetings was with Daniel Bekerman, the producer of The Witch. I wrote a horror screenplay and I got to talk with the producer of one of the greatest horror films the last decade. That's got to be viewed as something good. He didn't agree to produce the film, but he did offer his company to assist us with securing grants and tax incentives if we shot up in Canada. Again, that's a pretty damn good measure of success for a contest." -- Kevin Bachar

9th Annual Winner, Richard Doyle, who is based in Australia, met with almost a dozen industry pros and signed with literary manager Will Rosenfield through Stage 32!

"The best part about it was honestly Stage 32's support. They introduced me to a bunch of people. I was also flown out to LA. While I was over there, I got to meet with personal heroes of mine and I managed to snag a manager, who I've been working with since then to get some stuff made. Especially for an international screenwriter like myself, sometimes it feels like LA is a long way away, but Stage 32 supported me and gave me opportunities it would've taken me years of pounding pavement to get." -- Richard Doyle

Glenn Forbes, Grand Prize Winner, Stage 32 Search For New Blood Contest in 2014 -- Signed with Infinity Management International!

"I have signed with a management company in LA, Infinity Management International. I met them when Stage 32 flew me down to LA, and now the deal is done. I'm so thrilled to have Stage 32 Happy Writers in my corner for this ride. I've been plugging away for more than 10 years to secure representation. My message is never give up on your dream, and surround yourself with people who can help you get there. For that, Stage 32 has become my lynchpin." -- Glenn Forbes

Hear what other New Blood winners have to say:

"I've entered so many contests over the years and none of them have offered the same amount of support that Stage 32 has." -- Kim Britt

“It’s surreal. It’s changed our work life and we’re working in a professional realm that we’ve never worked in before. We’ve been struggling writers for a long time and when we found out we won, we were super stoked. Stage 32 put us out there on a bunch of meetings with production companies, managers and agents. We signed with HG5 Entertainment and are writing 2 scripts, which 1 is going into production this year. It’s changed our life.”

- Alyssa & Griffin Devine, Grand Prize Winner Stage 32 Search For New Blood Winners in 2016, whoSIGNED with HG5 Entertainment.

"Speaking as a screenwriter to all my fellow writers, I highly recommend submitting to any and all Stage 32 Writing Competitions. I came in 2nd in the Search for New Blood Horror competition and it at very least exposes you and your work to industry professionals. To get that kind of eyes on something you've written, whether you end up selling your screenplay or not, is a great experience. All my best to all!"

- William Jeffrey, Stage 32 Search For New Blood Contest Runner up in 2015

"My only wish was to find this site sooner for the sake of saving time, discovering in-depth educational value, and making legitimate connections. I have to tip my hat at RB and the gang for changing the game and helping shape my future in filmmaking. I’m honored to be swimming in a community of like-minded individuals. I’m proud to be Stage 32’s HAPPIEST WRITER right now!"

- Frank Ponce, Stage 32 Search For New Blood Contest Runner up in 2014, who SIGNED with 3 Arts Entertainment and had his script picked up for development by Atlas Entertainment (The Dark Knight, American Hustle).

Frank went on to sell an Evel Knievel limited series to USA Network with Atlas Entertainment, Wonderland Sound & Vision, and Universal co-producing. He also got his own producing career off the ground with 4 films in the last few years: THE LINE (2023), JAMOJAYA (2023), PRIVATE PROPERTY (2022), and AS THEY MADE US (2022), all thanks to Stage 32 helping his career lift-off!

Still don't believe us? Previous contest winner Diana Wright was signed to The Cartel and Abrams Artists Agency! Check out her video here:

More Contest Winners Jonathan Jordan and Greg Mania would love to tell you why you should enter!

Winner Jonathan Jordan was signed by major literary agency Verve, and worked on a script currently in production through them. He has also signed with a manager and is currently working on a new film.

Winner Greg Mania was signed by Cohn/Torgan Management, and has since published a memoir called Born To Be Public, which was named NPR’s Best Book of 2020.

Previous Contest Winner Layla O'Shea took meetings all over Los Angeles (and online) with Literary Managers, Producers, and Execs and is still going strong!

She shares her advice: "There is no one path or age limit when it comes to breaking in!"

This year alone, three Stage 32 writers have had their films produced for the big screen:

• Screenwriter Sean Farley was discovered through a Stage 32 feature read + consultation call by manager/producer Chris Bellant of Vision Entertainment. Sean wrote the thriller film NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH, starring Jack Quaid and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, which hit theaters in April.
  
  
• Similarly, screenwriter James Papa met producer/director Julia Verdin through Stage 32, resulting in the produced drama film NO ADDRESS, released in theaters in March starring William Baldwin, Ashanti, Beverly D'Angelo, Xavier Berkeley and Patricia Velasquez.
  
  
• Writer/Director Richard Zelniker, who won the Stage 32 1st Annual Romantic Comedy Contest and was set up on a meeting with Producer Brodrick Haygood. They stayed in touch and together they released the drama film THE VORTEX in theaters this past February, which starred Billy Gardell and Jaina Lee Ortiz.

Click the "Success Stories" link here for even more testimonials from our past winners!

Nick Phillips (Judge) - Producer, PBR Streetgang

Nick Phillips is a studio executive and an award-winning producer & filmmaker who has been working in the entertainment industry for over two decades working on some of the most iconic films of our time across all genres and formats.

Nick started his career in New York City at Miramax/Dimension Films as the Vice President of Development & Production where he was involved in such franchises as SCREAM, HALLOWEEN, HELLRAISER, DR. STRANGE, WEREWOLF BY NIGHT, HIGHLANDER and THE CROW. He appeared on Season 3 of Project Greenlight, helping shepherd the film Feast through production and launching a new franchise in the process.

Nick went on to work for Sony Pictures Entertainment Senior Vice President of Development & Production where he worked on successful sequels to 30 DAYS OF NIGHT and VACANCY and transitioned over to a role at Sony Screen Gems, where he oversaw a slate of films including STRAW DOGS, THIS CHRISTMAS and COUNTRY SONG.

Nick co-founded and served as Executive Vice President of Revolver Picture Company, a fully financed independent production label in conjunction with Kelly Wagner Osborne. Nick produced HAUNT with Jacki Weaver and Ione Skye; the award winning BENEATH with Jeff Fahey (both released by IFC Midnight) and DEVIL'S BACKBONE TEXAS for Fox Digital Studios. Revolver’s last feature, PET, starred Dominic Monaghan, Ksenia Solo, and Jennette McCurdy and premiered at the SXSW Film Festival and was released though Samuel Goldwyn Films. Revolver also co-produced and co-financed the horror reality series Fight of the Living Dead for YouTube Red, which ran for three seasons.

Nick then went on to produced two seasons of the series The Real Bros of Simi Valley for Studio 71 and Facebook Watch, and he produced season one of the short form series Mr. Mom for MGM and VUDU. He also produced season one of the series ALT for Gunpowder + Sky.

Nick became as the Head of Production for the feature startup studio/streaming platform CreatorPlus. CreatorPlus produced, financed and released two features – JANE, starring Madelaine Petsch, Chloe Bailey, and Melissa Leo (distributed by Blue Fox Entertainment) and DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH (distributed by Buffalo 8). He also executive produced a slate of five short films as part of CreatorPlus’ Flip The Script Short Film Program.

Most recently, Nick was head of Production for prolific producer Yale Entertainment. While there, he produced four films – REVERSE THE CURSE, written and directed by and starring David Duchovny and Logan Marshall Green; ALL YOU NEED IS BLOOD, with Mena Suvari; THE FOG OF WAR with John Cusack and Mira Sorvino; and BARRON'S COVE, starring Garrett Hedlund, Stephen Lang, Brittany Snow, and Hamish Linklater.

Nick is a prolific producer bringing all types of stories and formats to screen and loves working with writers to develop great stories that can get made.

Jeremy Elliott (Judge) - Producer, Broken Time Entertainment

Jeremy Elliott is a physical production producer with 20+ years experience in the industry working in features, television and commercials. For the past 7 years, he's been Head of Production at Crypt TV, the horror content company founded by Jack Davis and Eli Roth. At Crypt TV, he leads a department of 15+ employees and manage the pipeline of content from Development, through Production and Post, to Final Delivery.

During his time at the company, he's Executive Produced a wide range of series and films including THE GIRL IN THE WOODS for Peacock, DON'T WATCH THIS for Netflix, THE BIRCH Seasons 1 & 2 for Facebook Watch and the feature film THE ANGRY BLACK GIRL & HER MONSTER which premiered at the 2023 SXSW Film Festival and was distributed theatrically by RLJE Films. Prior to Crypt TV, he produced several feature films including BIG BEAR starring Adam Brody and Tyler Labine, NOBODY WALKS IN L.A. and COFFEE KILL BOSS.

Jake Wagner (Judge) - Manager/Producer, Alibi Management

Jake Wagner is one of the most respected Literary Managers and Producers working in the business today, he served as the Executive Producer on the hit Netflix comedy SENIOR YEAR starring Rebel Wilson, the action-comedy STUBER starring Dave Bautista and Kumail Nanjiani, and the horror feature BAGHEAD starring Freya Allan (KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES, THE WITCHER, and HBO's THE THIRD DAY).

Jake signed Stage 32 writer Christina Pamies after she won the Search for New Blood Contest. Christina wrote the hit film BAGHEAD for Studio Canal which was featured in the Hollywood Reporter.

Jake has also been one of the top-selling spec script managers of the last decade. Jake was responsible for the largest spec sale of the last 10 years (and one of the biggest in history), with SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN which sold to Universal Pictures. After an illustrious and celebrated career at Benderspink and Good Fear and Film + Management, Jake owns and founded Alibi Management. Jake’s clients have made some of the most popular recent horror films including POLAROID, CRAWL, and CHILD'S PLAY.

Jake has a long history of finding material for development and loves working with Stage 32 writers.

Ethan Erwin (Judge) - Producer, Beryllium Entertainment

Ethan Erwin is a writer and producer with over 15 years of experience in the industry. Erwin's films have grossed over $1.5 billion dollars worldwide, including credits such as SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS, BOOK OF ELI, UNKNOWN, THE GUNMAN, THE NICE GUYS, ORPHAN, and it's sequel, ORPHAN: FIRST KILL. 

Erwin also served as a producer on SUPERFLY, starring Michael Kenneth Williams and released by Columbia Pictures, the Coen brothers-penned caper SUBURBICON, directed by George Clooney and starring Matt Damon, and WHITEOUT, directed by Dominic Sena, starring Kate Beckinsale and Gabriel Macht, and produced by Warner Brothers, in addition to the films COLLIDE, THE APPARITION, THE HILLS RUN RED, and RETURN TO HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL. He also wrote the film SOLSTICE, as well as on the CBS cult hit TV show MOONLIGHT. 

Erwin has developed and produced film, television and digital projects with A-list stars, directors and writers including Robert Downey Jr., Sandra Bullock, Denzel Washington, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Matt Damon, Julianne Moore, Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, Sean Penn, Hilary Swank, Guy Ritchie, George Clooney and Shane Black.

He now serves as principal of his own production company Beryllium Entertainment. 

Jonathan Barkan (Judge) - Executive Producer, (SKINAMARINK, ETHERIA)

Jonathan Barkan is an Executive Producer who has a long history in horror having started his career as the Editor-in-Chief of Dread Central and Bloody Disgusting.

His recent producing credits include Kyle Edward Ball's experimental supernatural horror SKINAMARINK (SHUDDER, IFC MIDNIGHT), MY CHERRY PIE, distributed by BayView Enterainment, as well as TV shows like ETHERIA for Amazon and DREAD: THE UNSOLVED for Dread Central. Jonathan is also credited on over two dozen feature films in which he has lent his expertise. He is currently producing MENTAL HEALTH AND HORROR, a documentary discussing the positive impact horror films can have.

He previously served as the Head of Distribution at VMI Releasing (through VMI Worldwide), and he was Head of Acquisitions and Development Director for Distribution Company at Mutiny Pictures.

Mutiny Pictures distributed the horror-thriller I AM LISA, the Drama DRIVE ALL NIGHT, and the historical drama THE MATCH. Jonathan was the VP of Feature Film Acquisitions and Distribution for The Horror Collective, where he discovered and acquired horror, thriller, and sci-fi titles. The Horror Collective's latest release is the micro-budget horror project SHIFTER.

Jonathan was also the Acquisitions Ambassador for DREAD Presents, a genre-centric distribution label under the banner of Epic Pictures Group. He has served as a jury member at various film festivals around the world, including South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, BIFAN in South Korea, Popcorn Frights in Florida, HARD: LINE in Germany, and Fantasia in Quebec, amongst others.

Jonathan loves to find elevated genre stories he can develop.

Michael Schulman (Judge) - Story Analyst, Amazon Studios

Michael is currently the Story Analyst for Amazon Studios where he covers all submissions for development that come through to Amazon. Prior to Amazon, Michael Schulman was the story analyst/script consultant for Netflix in the Original Independent Film (OIF) division.

Prior to his work with Netflix and Amazon, Michael worked at Barry Mendel Productions on the Disney lot where he was involved with the acquisition, development and production of Wes Anderson's RUSHMORE, Oscar Nominated THE SIXTH SENSE, and Spielberg's Oscar Nominated MUNICH. Michael spent two years as head of development for 4 time Oscar Nominated Michael Mann’s company where he worked on Oscar nominated ALI starring Will Smith, 5 time Oscar Winning THE AVIATOR, and TEXAS KILLING FIELDS starring Jessica Chastain.

Michael also spent years on the buyer side of film as VP of Development for Alec Baldwin’s company at Orion Pictures and subsequently for Dennis Quaid’s company at TriStar.

Michael’s consultations are designed for advanced screenwriters who are ready to take their career to the next level and start seeking professional representation. He also wants to work with writers who have their first draft, and need help brainstorming what the key elements are to keep and edit to quickly get your project market ready. You will receive an in-depth analysis of your project’s strengths and weaknesses and an accurate preview of how agents, managers, and studios would respond to the submission. Michael has presented several well-received webinars on the screenplay development and acquisition process, and he has been interviewed and frequently quoted in the industry media.

More importantly, you will get the experience of being in a producer’s meeting where the goal is to dissect the draft and get the project ready to submit to the studio. This is a deep creative scrub of your project that will provide a specific game plan for a rewrite that will help position your project in the sweet-spot of what the studios and streamers are looking for. Michael is happy to discuss strategies to effectively find the right professional representation, and—when it’s appropriate—facilitate introductions to agents, managers, and producers to help get the right eyes on your material.

Michael began his career at the William Morris Agency as an agent trainee and assistant to the worldwide head-of-talent where he worked with top actors including Richard Gere, Mel Gibson, Nicolas Cage, Denzel Washington, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Nicole Kidman. After a move to ICM, and upon promotion to agent in the motion picture literary department, Michael began representing emerging screenwriters, directors, and producers, brokering the deal for Danny Rubin’s screenplay GROUNDHOG DAY to director Harold Ramis.

 

Lucas Ford (Judge) - Producer and Development Executive, Works with 21 Laps Entertainment, Ford Films, Searchlight Pictures, Amazon Studios, and MGM

Lucas Ford is an award-winning Canadian film and television producer and development executive. Lucas served as a film executive at Shawn Levy's 21 Laps Entertainment, Lucas contributed to cultural hits like STRANGER THINGS, SHADOW & BONE, and FREE GUY (DISNEY), while developing projects with major studios including Netflix, Warner Bros, and A24, such as the viral feature adaptation of THE BACKROOMS.

Under his Ford Films banner, Lucas has produced projects that have been selected at Slamdance, SXSW, Sitges, Austin, and Telefilm Canada’s Showcase at the Cannes Film Festival. Upcoming projects include the horror/comedy PORTAL TO HELL starring Keith David and Richard Kind as well as HOW WAS YOUR WEEKEND? with James Morosini and Rachael Harris.

Lucas began his career at the Toronto International Film Festival where he worked for the CEO and Artistic Director, later holding roles at Searchlight Pictures, Amazon Studios, and MGM, as well as working on celebrated Canadian series LETTERKENNY (Hulu) and BAD BLOOD (Netflix).

Lucas has a passion for championing bold, filmmaker-driven storytelling for global audiences.

ENTRANT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Void where prohibited by law.

This Stage 32 Contest is an international contest. Must be 18 years or older to submit.

Entrant agrees to Stage32.com terms and conditions.

This Stage 32 Contest is not a game of chance. All material is read and reviewed by industry professionals.

All quarterfinalists, semi-finalists, finalists and winners are subjectively determined by our judges.

There is no limit to the number of screenplays an Entrant can enter. The same screenplay cannot be submitted multiple times under different names. If so, you will be disqualified.

Entrant must not be an immediate family member or friend of any of the judges or their respective companies.

Entrant acknowledges that because of the judges' and mentors' position in the entertainment industry they receive numerous submissions of ideas, formats, stories, suggestions and the like and that many such submissions heretofore or hereafter received by them are similar to or identical to those developed by them or their employees or, if an agent, are otherwise available to them.

Entrant acknowledges that they will not be entitled to any compensation because of the use by judges or mentors of any such similar material.

Entrant acknowledges that no fiduciary or confidential relationship now exists between Entrant and judges or mentors, and Entrant further acknowledges that no such relationships are established between Entrant and judges or mentors by reason of this contest entry.

Entrants must submit screenplays and payment online.

Entrants must upload their submission within 72 hours of entry purchase.

Entry fees will not be returned or adjusted.

No waivers are available for this contest.

SCREENPLAY TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Screenplays should be written in English and in standard industry format.

The rights to the Entrant’s screenplay should not have been previously optioned or sold.

The Entrant retains the rights to his or her screenplay at all times.

Entrant’s screenplay must not have been produced.

The screenplay can be submitted with or without a title page and/or contact information.

After a screenplay is entered, no new drafts or corrected pages can be made by the Entrant unless it is confirmed in our records that the Entrant has paid for the "Resubmission" option.

Screenplay must be submitted as a PDF document.

Screenplay must be the original work of the Entrant and may not be based whole or in part on any fictional or non-fictional material, published or unpublished, produced or unproduced for which the Entrant does not have rights. Neither Stage 32 nor its judges investigates or attests to the authenticity of an applicant’s statement of authorship or rights secured. By entering the competition, you are acknowledging that you have secured all necessary rights.

Using our new Feedback & Resubmission Option you will get 3-5 pages of coverage/notes back in 5-days with a guaranteed option to resubmit one (1) revised draft of your script up to 10 days after the Final Deadline! See what elements of your script are working and what still needs to be developed. You can position yourself for the best chance of success - all for an additional fee of only $99.

This option is good for a one-time use and is non-refundable/non-transferable if you do not enter an updated draft. Updated drafts will need to be sent to contests@stage32.com to be scored.