Screenwriting : Connect with Australian Screenwriters by Matt Watters

Hi Matt,

I am an Aussie. Don’t need ideas though.

Welcome to Stage 32 and the Screenwriting Lounge, Matt Watters. "Dream Phaze" sounds like it'll be an exciting movie series or TV show.

Australia is one of our fastest growing areas, Matt. Great to have you in the mix.

Hi All, thanks for the welcome. Maurice, Dream Phaze is being considered by the largest streamers in the US as I write. I have a screenwriting partner in New York and his pitches and treatment at Sundance have been very well received. As the streaming sector is in a little 'turmoil' at present trying to find the next 'model' that will boost revenue, the waiting game begins until that one producer realises the potential and champions our cause. IMHO, highly original content is somewhat lacking across streaming services at the moment and I think that is reflected in subscriber retention dwindling. Production companies are happy to dish out the same basic stories, because they've worked in the past, dressed in new clothing and I think audiences are awake to that fact now.

So....you're here looking for...what?

Australian screenwriters for possible development of a unique story.

Sounds rather myopic but good luck.

Thanks, Michael, for your 'insight'.

LOL...you're welcome.

You're welcome, Matt Watters. Congratulations on "Dream Phaze" being considered by the largest streamers in the US! Congratulations to your writing partner on the success! How far along are you on "Dream Phaze"?

Hi Maurice, the screenplay or the novel series? The screenplay of the first novel will only be developed if optioned. The novel series, Book #1 Germination is available in ebook, paperback and audiobook, Book #2 Imagination is available in ebook, paperback and the audiobook will be released next month. Book #3 Fascination is currently being written.

Great to meet you here in the community, Matt. I’ve had the pleasure of working with some amazing talent from Australia in my career. I’m the Director of Education here at Stage 32. If I can ever recommend any of our education or be of any help on your Stage 32 journey please email me at edu@stage32.com.

Hi Matt, welcome! Be sure to check out the member directory, you can search by location. https://www.stage32.com/people

Oh ok, I see, Matt Watters. I thought you were writing the script, then pitching it to be optioned. You're waiting until the first novel is optioned before the script is developed.

Correct Maurice. I don't write scripts, only novels and short stories. I worked with my New York partner to develop a Producers Treatment of the first novel, which he pitched through his network of producers and development teams.

Hey Matt. I am from Canberra, check out my bio and hope we can connect. I have once script I am currently trying to find an Aussie to produce/direct. Left messages with Matthew Newton's agent as I think it's a great vehicle for him to direct or even act in.

Hi Pete, thanks for the connection. Things move quickly. My New York partner (screenwriter) has come on board to help develop the story I posted about here...not Australian, I know, but he pitched a compelling case and feels the original story is strong enough to attract US interest. Good luck with your writing.