06/11/2026
One recurring theme in my London Film Festival notes: making good work involves uncertainty, imperfect drafts and other people.
The emerging writers spoke about difficult first drafts and the pleasure of rewriting. Pippa Harris emphasised distinctive voices. Ava DuVernay spoke about shared passion. Brad Bird described the long journey of a project he continued to believe in.
Different experiences, with useful reminders for anyone developing a screenplay.
Which would help your project most right now: finishing a draft, getting thoughtful feedback, or clarifying what you want to say?
These are my takeaways from the conversations, paraphrased from my notes.
— Hayley