American Film Institute (AFI) - Screenwriting MFA Applicants 2022

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And instructions:


Screenwriting applicants are required to submit the following:

  1. A PDF of a typed screenplay in professional format (20 pages maximum) of which you are the sole screenwriter. If the sample is from a longer script, select what you feel is the bestportion of your script. It could be the first 20 pages, or some other section. Give us (briefly) enough context to know where we are in the story if it is not the first 20 pages. Co-authored and adaptations will not be considered. Be sure to include a title page with your name, 2022-2023 SCR, and e-mail address.
  2. Write a scene in professional format on the topic of “the guilty party” (five pages maximum). Make sure the scene contains three characters. It should introduce a main character, contain a turn, and an ending that points to further story and makes us want to know more. Be sure to include a title page with your name, 2022-2023SCR, and e-mail address.
Online applications and portfolio requirements must be received by 8:59 p.m. PT (11:59 p.m. ET) on the designated date below.

December 1, 2021: Cinematography, Directing, Editing, Producing, Production Design and Screenwriting
 
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Am I right in understanding that "the guilty party" is purely the topic at hand? As in, the scene should include a guilty party of sorts. We can use a title for the scene that isn't "The Guilty Party"?

I'm moments from submitting and this came to mind lol.
 
Am I right in understanding that "the guilty party" is purely the topic at hand? As in, the scene should include a guilty party of sorts. We can use a title for the scene that isn't "The Guilty Party"?

I'm moments from submitting and this came to mind lol.
Yes, you are correct. I used a different scene title last year and it was fine. I don’t even think they brought up the titles of either of my samples during the interview, haha. You just need to use the prompt as the inspiration for the scene. Good luck on your application!
 
So now that the deadline has come and gone. How'd the application go for everyone? Hopefully you were able to turn it in on time?

If you haven't yet please remember to add your application to our application database:


Good luck everyone!
 
Managed to turn it in just before thanksgiving. Not sure how it turned out...I guess will find out next month if I'm invited to an interview lol.
All I can say is that I'm glad I tried and proud of how I represented myself and my voice to the best of my ability :)
 
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