Authoring & Playwriting

Is it too late to say that? I’ve been so crazy busy I didn’t have time to make New Year’s Resolutions. But I’ve spent time educating myself on how to become a better writer. So I’d like to share some of the things we could do this year to make ourselves better writers: (that counts as a resolution,...

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1. Read only the scene description from a produced script, skipping all of the dialogue.

2. Read only dialogue from a produced script, skipping all of the scene description.

3. Write a scene inspired by a real argument.

4. Write a disagreement scene that plays out with no dialogue.

5. Write a scene inspired by a childhood memory.

6. Write a scene where a character experiences a moment of joy.

7. Write a scene where tension builds without action.

8. Write a scene that reveals a secret to the reader, but not the characters.

9. Write a logline for an unfinished script.

10. Pitch a story idea out loud to yourself.

11. Identify what your protagonist wants in each scene.

12. Clarify what the antagonist stands to lose.

13. Remove backstory that delays the story’s start.

14. Cut a favorite line of dialogue to test the scene.

15. Give a character a secret.

16. Watch a movie and study how information is withheld.

17. Watch and study the opening ten minutes of several movies.

18. Watch and study the final ten minutes of several movies.

19. Rewrite a first act and raise the stakes.

20. Rewrite a second act and escalate the conflict.

21. Rewrite a third act to build to a bigger climax.

22. Write nonstop for thirty minutes.

23. Conjure a concept for a new script without considering marketability.

24. Read about films that became hits unexpectedly.

25. Study a favorite screenwriter’s first produced credit.

Do you have any ideas to share? Instead of avoiding my unfinished script by cleaning out my sock drawer (again), I’m going to do some of these. Which one inspires you?

We’ve launched a powerful new batch of Open Writing Assignments (OWAs) for 2026, with a strong focus on theatrically-driven genre films and inspiring true stories. Leading the charge are studio executives seeking distinctive, voice-driven projects designed for the big screen.

These opportunities are...

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These opportunities are now open for submissions, with deadlines at the end of the month.

Here’s what the industry is looking for right now:

For Theatrical, Voice-Driven Genre Films (Under $20M)

A Studio SVP/Creative Executive is actively seeking three distinct types of films, all with a clear theatrical vision:

- Grounded Sci-Fi in the vein of Ex Machina, Mickey 17, and Megan 2.0.

- High-Concept Thrillers comparable to The Housemaid, Black Bag, and Lurker.

- Clear-Concept Horror with the impact of Smile, A Quiet Place, and Trap.

The key requirement across all: The concept must feel distinct, and/or the writer's voice must be so strong it stands apart.

For Powerful True Stories & Historical Dramas

- A Producer seeks stories of individual courage and small acts of resistance, with a primary interest in POW narratives. Preference is for WWII-era settings, but compelling stories from any period—including contemporary—will be considered. Think Unbroken, Nr. 24, and The Railway Man.

- Another Producer seeks inspiring stories about fighting for survival, truth, and freedom. True stories are preferred, but fiction with the resonance of Promised Land, Children of Men, or The Revenant will be considered.

For Character-Driven Romance

- An Acquisitions Executive seeks character-driven romance features with budgets under $10M, in the style of People We Meet on Vacation, Her, and Call Me By Your Name.

If you have a project with a strong, distinctive voice or a compelling true story, this is your direct opportunity to reach studio-level decision-makers.

Submit Today: https://www.stage32.com/writers-room

Ashley Renee Smith

Head of Community at Stage 32 ♦ Creative Executive, Producer, Author

January 2026 Open House Webcast

Find Your Footing on Stage 32: Join Our January Community Open House!

Wednesday, January 28th at 12:00 pm PT!

Every success story begins with a first step.

If you’re ready to take yours, join me, Ashley Smith, Head of Community at Stage 32, for our January Community Open House Webcast happening Wednesday, January 28th at 12:00 pm PT!

Free Registration: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/stage-32s-january-2026-community-open-house-webcast

Whether you’re chasing representation, looking for collaborators, or simply ready to stop creating in isolation, the Stage 32 Community Open House is your moment to show up, be seen, and start making real progress.

This free live event isn’t a presentation—it’s a fully interactive session led by you and guided by Ashley Smith, Head of Community at Stage 32. You’ll have the opportunity to share your goals, ask questions, and tell us exactly what resources or support you’re looking for right now in your creative journey.

Ashley will walk you through the most powerful tools and features on Stage 32, including how to build a strong profile that acts as your virtual business card—clearly showcasing your skills, interests, and creative voice. You’ll learn how to participate in the free Stage 32 Lounges in a way that positions you as someone others want to collaborate with, including how to make a compelling post, contribute to ongoing conversations, and stay consistently active in a way that builds visibility and trust.

You’ll also learn how to keep up with the latest industry news, platform updates, and community insights through the Stage 32 Blog, and how to access Stage 32 Education, Certification, and Script Services that align with your next big move.

This session will close with a live Q&A tailored specifically to your goals and questions—whether you’re a writer, director, producer, actor, editor, or someone who wears multiple hats.

Wherever you’re starting from, this is your launchpad. Join us and take that first step with intention.

If you can’t attend live, don’t worry — registering ensures you’ll receive the full recording to watch anytime from anywhere.

Who’s planning to join me live for the Open House?

Click HERE to Register for FREE!

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Maurice Vaughan

24 hours ago

Those are incredible ideas for inspiration, Elizabeth Bunting! Thanks for sharing them.

Elizabeth Bunting

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1 person likes this
- Maurice Vaughan
23 hours ago

Thank you what gives you inspiration Maurice Vaughan

23 hours ago

You're welcome, Elizabeth Bunting. Life, movies, shows, pictures, videos, social media, etc. give me inspiration.

Maurice Vaughan Stage 32 is amazing and excellent place to meet like minded individuals.

You're right, Elizabeth Bunting. I've met a lot of people and had a lot of success on here. Hope you do too! And I'm a Stage 32 Lounge Moderator. If you ever have any questions about Stage 32, let me...

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Cynna Ael

3
3 people like this
6 days ago

Last novel I’ve read—The Kill Clause by Lisa Unger.

Michael Dzurak

2
2 people like this
- Lauren Hackney
- Maurice Vaughan
6 days ago

Lauren Hackney Pretty much the violence. It's a story that mainly takes place in the criminal underworld, has war flashbacks, and a plot thread of secretive drug experimentation....

Debra Holland

3
3 people like this
5 days ago

I can't come up with one because I read a lot of books. But I do like stories where the ending is unpredictable, but satisfying.

3
3 people like this
3 days ago

Lauren Hackney, if you’re looking for a story that genuinely surprises you and earns its twists, I highly recommend Legendborn by Tracy Deonn. It’s the first book in the YA series The Legendborn Cycle...

Alexia Melocchi

3
3 people like this
2 days ago

I was blown away by this new novel called MACHIAVELLI PRINCESS- it's a Renaissance juicy saga about the woman who may or may not have co-authored Niccolo Machiavelli's THE PRINCE. Set in Tuscany durin...

Meriem Bouziani

2
2 people like this
- Debbie Seagle
- Maurice Vaughan
3 days ago

Happy New Year to you, and thank you for sharing these great tips.

Marie Hatten

These are all great thanks Debbie Seagle

Debbie Seagle

1
1 person likes this
- Maurice Vaughan
2 days ago

You're Welcome! I'm doing #19 today.

David Austin Veal

2
2 people like this
- Debbie Seagle
- Maurice Vaughan
2 days ago

I love these and to them I'd add take 3 months of scene study acting class, take a course in producing film/tv, take a short job working as a production assistant, direct a short indie film, got to a...

Great advice David Austin Veal! I love the zoo-writing idea. Industry relationships are so inspiring & I've met some amazing people here on Stage 32 - including you. Happy New Year!...

Kat Spencer

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4 people like this
4 days ago

Wonderful responses, everyone, thanks for taking the time!

Darrell Pennington

Kat Spencer that is such an interesting question. I have multiple scenes that would pour out of me but have been very guarded in these. I don't want to hurt people emotionally and I do let that dictat...

Kevin Enners

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1 person likes this
- Maurice Vaughan
3 days ago

Darrell Pennington What if you are writing about a topic that is poignant and necessary, but may ruffle feathers?

Kevin Enners Yes, that seems to be my specialty hahaha, especially using the lens and prism of crude humor to articulate those topics. But I do have projects that are very personally based and I know...

Darrell Pennington Diddo (for the most part). I have cerebral palsy, so I have written scripts for a dramedy about a paraplegic writer and a crime drama about a detective with mild cerebral palsy... I...

4
4 people like this
5 days ago

No. The only story I've shelved was one that could attract some controversy, and I didn't want to deal with that.

David E. Gates

Surely, a story that attracts controversy would sell itself with the free publicity Debra Holland ?

Rose Dupuis

3
3 people like this
4 days ago

Kat Spencer I've paused for a time then revisit the premise. Spend time in the world building or work on a back story to a character. How have you moved beyond your story? Has your audience changed as well? Perhaps you have more than one story demanding attention.

2
2 people like this
- Michael Dzurak
- Maurice Vaughan
3 days ago

Debra Holland OK Debra, I have to ask hahaha, what is the storyline of that work?

Fran Tabor

4
4 people like this
3 days ago

You asked, if any of us ever"changed faster than the story (any of us were ) writing" & because of that quit writing?

Personal conviction: If a story can't change me --open my thoughts more than if I'd...

Richard Buzzell

I write plays as well as screenplays. Last year I wrote a twenty page play that originated from some psychological analysis that I was doing on a friend of mine. I was riding my bike when it occurred...

2
2 people like this
- Richard Buzzell
- Maurice Vaughan
3 days ago

I write comedy (mostly) novels and comedy scripts. My process lately is doing everything but WRITE!~ I'm going to write today!

Thank you Lauren Hackney for putting that joy back into my intentions....

Lauren Hackney

2
2 people like this
- Ashley Renee Smith
- Maurice Vaughan
2 weeks ago

Hi Bob Canning I have a publishing background so I'm sorry I can't provide much more with playwriting opportunities. If you email the Support Team support@stage32.com they can assist you further with...

Banafsheh Esmailzadeh

3
3 people like this
2 weeks ago

Maybe this is the wrong answer to the question, but I firmly believe physical media should keep being a thing. I understand that space is a growing concern, not to mention technology constantly evolvi...

2
2 people like this
- Maurice Vaughan
- Banafsheh Esmailzadeh
1 week ago

Banafsheh Esmailzadeh fantastic response and I do agree - especially when quality is compromised.

3
3 people like this
1 week ago

Your unique voice helps— but creating content that is less known or perhaps an old concept brought back 15-25 years later can have new life when viewed through today’s lens. What also works is when yo...

2
2 people like this
- Lauren Hackney
- Maurice Vaughan
5 days ago

For books, it's continuing to put out quality works--compelling stories that make readers your fans so they will keep buying your books.

Authoring & Playwriting

Find Your Footing on Stage 32: Join Our January Community Open House!

Wednesday, January 28th at 12:00 pm PT!

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