American Screenwriting Conference

Overview

Founded in 2004 by Dr. Lew Hunter, Dean Emeritus of the UCLA Screenwriting program, The American Screenwriters Conference is the premier discussion of its kind where award-winning screenwriters learn the art and business of screenwriting in an intimate setting. Not a giant tradeshow, the American Screenwriters Conference allows up-close and personal contact with our speakers and screenwriters to form long-lasting bonds and facilitate better learning. Accepted screenwriters receive Laurels indicating they are an OFFICIAL SELECTION. More than just bragging rights, this designation confers on the holder the 'seal of approval' from the ONLY screenwriting conference created by the late Dr. Lew Hunter of UCLA Screenwriting, (The "Godfather" of American Screenwriting). In addition to this association, ACCEPTED screenwriters receive the opportunity to attend our conference by purchassing our highly discounted SPECIAL WRITER'S PASS for the day-long summit, learning to write in an intimate setting from top pros. The conference covers important topics like character building, pitching, story development, and marketing. Last year's event was led by acclaimed screenwriter/actor Richard Broadhurst (One Life To Live) and featured screenwriter David Aguilar (Matlock, SWAT) and Writer/Director Mark S. Allen (Don't Answer). This screenwriter pass also includes an AWARDS CEREMONY, PLUS AN ENTIRE 3_DAY FILM FESTIVAL! The conference is attached to the Sacramento International Film Festival. The Festival, celebrating its 31st year, is a 3 day cinema treat for film enthusiasts and filmmakers, having featured Academy Award winning films like Slumdog Millionaire and industry guests like Academy Award Winner, Danny Glover (Lethal Weapon, The Color Purple). We feel strongly that by exposing screenwriters to the process of filmmaking, we can enhance their writing immeasurably. For this reason the ALL ACCESS Festival pass is ADDED to the screenwriter conference at NO CHARGE.

Last updated Sep 6, 2026

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Festival Details

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• Filmmaker

  I could never say enough about what a wonderful experience this Festival was. Before my screenplay The Soft Core won the Outstanding Comedy Award, I had already gained so much new insight, interacted with so many talented artists, and immersed myself in the steep culture there, that winning was the furthest thing from my mind. Go to this Festival. Your life will be enriched, by no small measure.

• Filmmaker

  Justin Charles Gizzi

• Filmmaker

  Loved this writer’s conference! Thank you to Martin and the guest speakers and all the volunteers. Brilliant idea to put the writer’s conference and the film festival at one location at the Sophia downtown!

• Filmmaker

  Loved being a part of the American Screenwriters Conference. I loved that it takes place as part of the Sacramento International Film Festival. With so many creators in one spot, writers and filmmakers, it makes the perfect environment for networking and building a team. The festival director is very present and welcoming, making the experience engaging and fun; even if you came to the event solo. Thank you Sac Film Fest!

• Filmmaker

  Jason the lionhearted Rhodes

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