Sean Collins-Smith
Story Editor, CHICAGO PD; Staff Writer, FIELD OF DREAMS
AFF Winner, 2018; AFF Finalist, 2017, 2021
It’s not an exaggeration to say the Austin Film Festival set me on my path to Los Angeles, played a direct role in getting my current manager — and eventually helped me staff on my first show.
When I placed as a finalist in 2017 with my first pilot, it was an eye-opening experience. Not only did I learn incredible things from panelists who were working writers, managers and agents, but I also interacted with an active showrunner who requested a script of mine. He eventually sent my work to his manager at 3 Arts Entertainment, where I’ve now been repped for 3 years.
Years later, in 2021, when I returned as a finalist for the third time, I was on the cusp of being staffed on my first show. A chance interaction with the showrunner of the room I interviewed for – what are the odds he’d be in Austin? – helped cement my placement in the room only days later.
Moments like these are what help make AFF special. From chatting with up-and-coming writers to making life-long friends, those conversations you have with fellow industry professionals at the Driskill can pay dividends for years to come. Submit a script, buy a pass, come to Austin and have the time of your life. You won’t be sorry.
Sean Collins-Smith
Story Editor, CHICAGO PD
AFF In Los Angeles
Sean Collins-Smith will be participating in our Roundtable Session at our AFF in Los Angeles event Saturday, April 29 at Linwood Dunn Theatre in Hollywood
Our AFF in Los Angeles event is a day full of seasoned advice from industry professionals – from learning what it takes to secure representation to hearing how successful writers broke into the industry.
Roundtable Session
*Roundtable session requires an add-on ticket and space is limited.
Get in-depth answers to your questions about the art, craft, and business of writing for film and television. This roundtable session offers registrants exclusive access to industry insiders in an informal setting. Come prepared with questions that focus on the importance of both the creative and business sides of breaking into and writing for film.
Tickets are on sale for $25 and an additional $25 for our roundtable session, learn more about our full day schedule and to purchase tickets below.
Everyone’s journey starts somewhere.
Submit your work today before the Regular Deadline Tuesday, April 18 at 11:59 PM CT!