Storytelling is the backbone of media and entertainment, and the technology creators use to create it allows us to share those stories with the world. The innovative New Media Film Festival®, known for championing groundbreaking ideas created Writers Block — a unique and engaging platform for celebrating the voices of writers. Live online during 16th New Media Film Festival® June 4-5 2026.
The innovative New Media Film Festival®, a trailblazer in championing groundbreaking ideas, is proud to unveil its latest creative endeavor: Writers Block. This exciting online platform celebrates the voices of writers, bridging innovation and storytelling. Writers Block will go live during the 16th New Media Film Festival®, held on June 4–5, 2026. www.newmediafilmfestival.com
Reimagining the traditional concept of “writer’s block,” this dynamic, live online session uplifts scriptwriters worldwide by creating a space for interaction, recognition, and celebration. Helming this initiative is Susan Johnston, a visionary media futurist and the founder of the New Media Film Festival®. Johnston, an award-winning producer and advocate for storytelling and technology in entertainment, is joined by industry legend Chuck Haifley, an accomplished producer and director with over four decades of experience, as the session’s moderator.
Script nominees for the 16th New Media Film Festival® will automatically participate in the Writers Block. This engaging online Q&A session spotlights storytellers, encompassing all formats within the script category. Nominees in all 28 categories compete for one-of-a-kind awards, including exclusive meetings with Marvel and HBO, studio packages from Filmustage, and offerings from Script Reader Pro, Scriptwriters Network, and more.
Nominees include:
World Premieres
In the Drive by 4 X Emmy Winner & Telly winner Adam Henry Garcia
This Was My Abuela’s House by Bea Mienik
Bermuda by Michael-Claude Winfield
The Scorpion Dance by Jon Haller
Feature Scripts
Ace’s Wilde III by Jonathan Cane
A Good Day Will Come by Amir Zargara
The Red Zone by Terry Podnar
TV – Pitch Deck – Play
Last Stand at Butte City by Multiple Telly Winner by Natalie Schwan
Campaign by Leon Thomas Braun
Precursor by Steve Brown
This God Damn House by Matthew McLachlan
About the Moderator, Chuck Haifley
Chuck Haifley brings unparalleled expertise as a producer, director, and technical visionary in live and broadcast entertainment. From legendary boxing events like Tyson vs. Holyfield to iconic music productions for Michael Jackson and Bon Jovi, Haifley’s influence spans sports, music, and cutting-edge technology.
About the Host, Susan Johnston
Susan Johnston, the dynamic Founder and Director of the New Media Film Festival®, has a distinguished career in bridging technology and storytelling. Recognized for her contributions to the arts and humanities, Johnston continues to empower creators worldwide.
The New Media Film Festival® transformative event is on June 4–5, 2025. Final submissions close at midnight, April 6th, 2025.
For more information: https://www.newmediafilmfestival.com/about
Contact Page https://www.newmediafilmfestival.com/contact
2355 Westwood Blvd. #381, Los Angeles, CA 90064, USA
Phone: 310-288-110
Media ContactCompany Name: New Media Film FestivalContact Person: CrystalEmail: Send EmailPhone: 13102881100City: Los AngelesState: CACountry: United StatesWebsite: https://www.newmediafilmfestival.com
