Columbus Film Commission Partners With The Columbus Metropolitan Library For Teen Screenwriting Competition

The Greater Columbus Film Commission, in partnership with Columbus Metropolitan Library, is proud to announce the 2018 Screenwriting Competition for teens. The contest is open to teens ages 12-17. Teens are invited to write a 3-5 page script which will be judged by industry professionals. The winner will then move on to have their film shot and produced by local Production Company Vital Companies. After completion of the film, it will be screened in a local theater with a red-carpet party and fanfare. The competition will hold two workshops, Thursday, June 21 and Thursday, July 12. The workshops will be led by Scott Spears, local screenwriter and professor of screenwriting at The Ohio State University.

John Daugherty, Executive Director of Film Columbus, and members of the Film Commission Advisory Committee have been working with stafffrom Columbus Metropolitan Library to launch what will hopefully turn into an annual competition.

"This partnership provides our teen customers with an opportunity to hone their writing and storytelling skills while also learning the basics of filmmaking," says Columbus Metropolitan Library Public Services Director Kathy Shahbodaghi. "It's all about finding new ways to spark curiosities and maybe even develop passions among our young minds."

"We're really excited to partner with the library to bring the art of screenwriting to kids this summer," said Daugherty. "We're building the Film Commission on the pillars of production, education, and exhibition. This competition is a great example of that education pillar and introducing kids to filmmaking. Who knows where the next Spielberg will hail from!"

The Greater Columbus Film Commission aims to grow the film industry in Columbus and central Ohio creating hundreds of jobs and providing significant economic impact for the area.

"We feel film is both art AND business that enriches our communities. We believe Columbus has the potential to be recognized as a top city for film education, exhibition, and production," said Daugherty.

To sign up a teen will need to fill out a release form and have it signed by a parent or guardian to fully participate. Release forms can be picked up at the Main Library YouMedia Lab (second floor) or you can email info@filmcolumbus.comto have one emailed to you.

Columbus Metropolitan Library has served the people of Franklin County, Ohio since 1873. With its Main Library and 22 branches, CML is well known for signature services and programs like Homework Help Centers, Reading Buddies, Summer Reading Club and Ready for Kindergarten. The library's Strategic Plan supports the vision of "a thriving community where wisdom prevails," which positions CML to respond to areas of urgent need: kids unprepared for kindergarten, third grade reading proficiency, high school graduation, college and career readiness and employment resources.

CML was named a 2011 National Medal Winner by the Institute for Museum and Library Services for work in community service, the highest honor for libraries and museums. CML was also named 2010 Library of the Year by Library Journal.