Netflix searches for local writers
THE Realness Institute has opened a call for submissions for its latest offering, Episodic Lab, a series development lab presented in partnership with global streaming service Netflix.
Episodic Lab is looking for screenwriters from Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa with authentic and original stories of all genres as Netflix is currently focusing its African Originals strategy.
The Lab will take place online from June 1-August 31, 2021 where selected writers will work on developing pitch documents for their story concepts.
Six writers will be chosen to spend three months in a “writers room” format where they will work with a script consultant and a creative producer to fully develop their story concepts into an episodic pitch. Along with creative training, writers will receive feedback from Netflix Originals’ development team.
Realness Partner and Project manager of the Episodic Lab, Asanda Biyana said: “Series give writers the space to make bigger worlds and more layered stories.
“There is no limit for what can be submitted, and we believe that with the pool of talent on our continent, and our incredible ability to tell stories, that we will see some extraordinary talent emerging from this process.
“We are excited and are preparing to work really hard to select the first cohort for the Lab.”
A stipend of about R30 000 per month will be paid to the participants to cover living expenses as they dedicate their time to the process.
At the end of the Lab, each writer will have an opportunity to pitch their finished product to Netflix and have their series developed for production.
If Netflix does not commission further development and/or production, the rights to the developed material default to the authors.
To apply, applicants must complete the online application on the Realness Institute website at www.realness.institute/episodic-labapplication.
Applicants will be required to pay a submission fee of R548 via Paypal to cover the banking charges.
The deadline for submissions is midnight January 31, 2021.
For more information, email submissions@realness.institute