Screenwriting : Austin Film Festival by Artemus Cole

I'm not going this year, but I've judged twice, and attended both years that I judged. It's a really great conference, and I've gotten something out of every workshop I attended, as well as the networking/party component. October is always a hard month for me (I almost always have travel that month), but I'm hoping to be able to attend next year. (I stay at the conference hotel even though I'm local because there is so, so much going on!)

I’m a finalist in the table read competition so yes if I make it to final 4

Congrats John Iannucci!

70 percent certain I'm going.

Thanks Julie. Wish I had my latest rewrite entered though. Much more polished.

Just found out I got two scripts into the second round, so I'll definitely consider going. Besides, the BBQ and Tex-Mex are to die for.

Not headed to Austin, but I am headed to ITVF like you.

Eric - two - I’m jealous! Lol good luck.

Congrats Eric Christopherson ... and as a former Longhorn, I totally agree - the BBQ and TexMex are some of the best I've ever had. If only I could get some FedExed to Australia :(

I hope to go

Phil Parker and Eric Christopherson - never say never. I once had Conan's on the Drag (dating myself) Fed Ex me a pizza to LA.... (Then again, pizza isn't exactly TexMex, but damn it's good pizza!)

I'll be there, I also had a pilot make the second round. There are some off-the-books workshops and panels for second round writers, so I'm very much looking forward to those.

Congratulations on your invite, Artemus

WOW. Eric 2 scripts into the 2nd round is pretty crazy! Congratulations on that!

I will be there.

I'm not from Texas and Texas doesn't want me anyway.

Brad, that line is from Lyle Lovett's That's Right (You're Not From Texas), am I right? So... does that mean you're not going (or didn't go) to AFF? ;)

Beth and Brad, it seems to me it is sorta from that song, but in the song it says that Texas wants him anyway, even tho he is not from there.

Congrats Eric-might see you around.

The Austin Film Festival is one of the absolute best to go to - especially for writers. They honor writers above all - and have the coolest trophy! If they called and invited you personally... that's usually a very good sign... a hint that it might be worth it for you to book that airfare. Plus, it's one of the most fun festivals of all. How'd you do?

AFF is great, but be sure to go with a plan in mind, even if that plan is just to have a good time. There is so much going on that it can be easy to get caught up in it and wear yourself out or spread yourself too thin. The panels are great if you are looking for some education on specific topics from awesome speaker (but make sure to build in some breaks). The parties are good for networking and meeting other writers, but they can get packed. Luckily everyone ends up migrating back at the Driskill bar as they wind down. There are also a ton of screenings if you are there to check a particular film or short out. I personally love the pitch competition - it's really fun and you get to watch some really great pitches and learn from their approach.

Overall, it's networking, education, and entertainment - what's not to like? Myself, RB, and Nick will all be there this year, so be sure to say hi if you're attending. We'll be in the exhibition hall during they day and around at all the parties (including our own on Friday night on the Handlebar Austin rooftop!

Allen Roughton - is the Stage 32 party open to the public? I didn't register for AFF this year as I was supposed to be in Florida, but Hurricane Michael changed that. Was thinking I might pop in as I'm local if it's not a Badge Required function.

J. Kenner, yes the party is open to everyone - no badge required!

Thanks, Allen Roughton !

Congrats Kody-might see you around.

Might see you at the party jULIE.

Awesome Laura Tabor-Huerta !