Universal Pictures Announces Launch of Universal Writers Program

This week, Universal Picture’s Global Talent Development & Inclusion group announced the re-launch of their prestigious Emerging Writers Fellowship under a revamped banner: the Universal Writers Program.

The program, which aims to discover, develop and promote multicultural and international points of view, is the only feature film program recognized by the Writers Guild of America. Likewise, the chosen writers are intended to fit naturally within the upcoming Universal Pictures and Focus Features development sleights.

Under its new banner, the Universal Writers Program is set to introduce new rules and regulations with regards to the application process. While the Emerging Writers Fellowship limited eligibility to novice writers, the new program will allow more experienced screenwriters with produced credits to apply.

Reflecting on these changes, Peter Cramer, President, Production, Universal Pictures promised to continue the program’s reputation for talent discovery.  “Although the breadth of the application process is expanding, these programs are designed to identify game-changing talent…We are a studio committed to discovering unique voices and developing writers on the cusp of breaking through.”

Changes within the program will include a heavier emphasis on script consultation for the purposes of developing and pitching material to Universal and Focus Features executives.

“Our intention in allowing experienced writers an opportunity to apply is to encourage writers who have had success in other media to consider a career in features,” explained Senior Vice President, Global Talent Development & Inclusion Janine Jones-Clark. “We’re excited to find the next group of innovative and multicultural and global-minded screenwriters to create content that reflects both our world and Universal’s vast audience.”

Set to begin in April of next year, the inaugural Universal Writers Program is open for applications now through November 6^th, 2017.

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