What's Happening?
HBO Max and WBD Access have announced the 12 European writers selected for this year's Script Engine Program. The four-month program aims to help screenwriters develop original, locally-rooted series concepts, which they will pitch to HBO Max executives
in November. Veteran producer and showrunner Frank Spotnitz, known for 'The X-Files' and 'The Man in the High Castle,' will serve as the lead facilitator and mentor. The selected writers hail from France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, and include Tolula Dada, Justine Kim Gautier, Storm Sigal-Battesti, Tunde Aladese, Stefanie Ren, Ben Braeunlich, Tommaso Matano, Emanuele Mochi, Simona Nobile, Jesica Aran, Lidia Fraga, and Miguel Mayorga Moscoso. The curriculum, developed with the Series Mania Institute, includes workshops, masterclasses, and networking opportunities led by HBO Max executives and industry experts. The initiative reflects HBO Max's integrated originals strategy, combining U.S. and international programming teams under Sarah Aubrey, head of original programming.
Why It's Important?
This program signifies HBO Max's strategic commitment to fostering local talent and developing original European content for its global platform. By investing in European writers, HBO Max aims to tap into diverse cultural perspectives and storytelling traditions, which are increasingly in demand by international audiences. Frank Spotnitz's involvement as a mentor brings significant industry expertise and credibility to the program, enhancing the development of high-quality series concepts. This initiative also strengthens HBO Max's presence in the European market, following its recent rollout in major territories like Germany, France, Italy, and the U.K. For the European television industry, it provides a crucial platform for mid-level writers to gain skills, confidence, and professional connections, potentially leading to sustainable international careers and enriching the global content landscape with unique European narratives.
What's Next?
Over the next four months, the 12 selected writers will participate in intensive workshops, masterclasses, and networking events, refining their original series concepts. The program culminates in November, when they will pitch their developed projects directly to HBO Max executives. Successful pitches could lead to further development and potential production deals, bringing new European series to HBO Max subscribers. The program's success will likely influence future iterations and similar talent development initiatives by HBO Max and other streaming platforms looking to localize content. This investment in European storytelling is expected to contribute to a more diverse and globally appealing content library for HBO Max, reinforcing its competitive position in the streaming market.
