Deadline: 14-Jan-2026
The Oxbelly Retreat Screenwriters Program is a fully funded, eight-day international residency for writer-directors developing their second fiction feature film. Taking place in Messinia, Greece, from 1–9 July 2026, the programme offers intensive script development, one-on-one mentorship, and interdisciplinary creative exchange, with applications closing on 14 January 2026.
The Screenwriters Program at the Oxbelly Retreat is an intensive creative residency designed for writer-directors working on their second fiction feature film. The programme brings together international filmmakers in a collaborative environment focused on deep script development, artistic risk-taking, and strengthening each participant’s unique cinematic voice.
About the Screenwriters Program
The Oxbelly Screenwriters Program supports writer-directors through a highly focused creative process that prioritizes writing and storytelling. Fellows workshop their scripts through individualized meetings with experienced writer-director advisors, participate in targeted craft sessions, and engage in a multidisciplinary creative exchange that expands narrative thinking beyond film alone.
Programme Goals and Creative Focus
The programme is designed to help participants push their creative boundaries and refine their storytelling practice.
• Strengthen screenwriting craft and authorial voice
• Deepen script development through one-on-one mentorship
• Encourage experimentation and narrative risk-taking
• Foster cross-disciplinary dialogue with creatives from theatre, visual arts, and literature
• Build long-term creative and professional relationships
Residency Location and Dates
The Oxbelly Retreat will take place in Costa Navarino, located in historic Messinia, Greece.
Residency dates: 1–9 July 2026
Programme duration: 8 days
Working language: English (good working knowledge required)
Programme Structure
The Screenwriters Program is divided into two distinct phases to support focused development and broader creative exchange.
Phase 1: Script Development and Mentorship
The first four days are dedicated to intensive writing work. Fellows engage in one-on-one sessions and small workshops with experienced writer-director advisors, allowing for in-depth feedback, revision, and refinement of their scripts.
Phase 2: Expanded Creative and Industry Engagement
The second half of the retreat introduces special guests, including established directors, actors, cinematographers, composers, editors, producers, and other industry professionals. Participants also engage with creatives from theatre, visual arts, and literature, broadening their narrative perspectives and approaches to storytelling.
Interdisciplinary Programming
Evening programming brings together all Oxbelly participants across disciplines. Activities include curated discussions on the craft of writing, readings, film screenings, and panel conversations that explore storytelling across multiple artistic forms. Screenwriting fellows also interact with fellows and advisors from the Fiction Writers Program, encouraging cross-pollination of ideas.
Ongoing Support Beyond the Retreat
Although the programme focuses on the creative writing process rather than production or financing, the advisors and industry professionals involved in Oxbelly continue to serve as long-term resources for fellows’ projects and careers after the retreat concludes.
What the Programme Covers
The Screenwriters Program is fully funded by Oxbelly.
• No application fee
• Flights covered
• Accommodation provided
• All meals included
This allows fellows to fully focus on their creative work during the residency.
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must meet all of the following eligibility criteria.
• Writer-directors aged 18 years or older
• Open to Greek and international applicants
• Applying with their second fiction feature film
• Must have written and directed one previous fiction feature
• Debut feature must be picturelocked at the time of application (release not required)
• Applicants must not be students
Why This Program Matters
Opportunities for writer-directors to focus exclusively on writing within a supportive, international environment are rare. The Oxbelly Screenwriters Program provides protected time, expert mentorship, and interdisciplinary inspiration, helping filmmakers strengthen their scripts and artistic identity at a critical stage of their careers.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit original materials authored entirely by themselves. Required materials include:
• Project synopsis
• Writer’s statement
• Treatment
• Full script of the second feature
• Sample of the debut fiction feature film
• Optional mood board
How to Apply
Applicants should prepare all required materials and submit them through the official Oxbelly application process before the deadline. Shortlisted finalists will be invited for interviews as part of the selection process.
Visa and Travel Information
International applicants are responsible for managing their own visa applications through the appropriate embassies. Oxbelly will provide supporting documentation to accepted fellows as required.
Key Dates and Timeline
Application deadline: 14 January 2026, 11:59 pm EET (Athens, Greece)
Shortlisted finalist interviews: Late spring 2026
Residency dates: 1–9 July 2026
Tips for a Strong Application
• Clearly articulate your cinematic voice and creative intentions
• Demonstrate how this second feature builds on your debut film
• Submit a complete, polished script ready for intensive development
• Use the writer’s statement to explain your thematic and narrative interests
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Oxbelly Screenwriters Program?
It is a fully funded international residency for writer-directors developing their second fiction feature film.
Is there an application fee?
No, there is no cost to apply.
What expenses are covered?
Flights, accommodation, and meals are fully covered for selected fellows.
Who can apply?
Writer-directors aged 18 and over who have written and directed one previous fiction feature that is picturelocked.
Are students eligible?
No, students are not eligible to apply.
What language is the programme conducted in?
The working language of the programme is English.
Conclusion
The Oxbelly Retreat Screenwriters Program offers a rare, fully funded opportunity for emerging writer-directors to deepen their craft, refine their second feature scripts, and engage with an international creative community. By combining focused mentorship, interdisciplinary exchange, and long-term professional support, the programme provides a powerful platform for the next stage of cinematic storytelling.
