GANDHINAGAR: Calling all aspiring audio storytellers! Realm, a leading independent producer of audio entertainment, has joined forces with the prestigious Austin Film Festival to sponsor their 2024 Fiction Podcast Competition. This exciting partnership brings forth the “Fiction Podcast Award and Fellowship presented by Realm,” recognizing exceptional talent in the genre.
“At Realm, we develop, produce and distribute many different kinds of podcasts, though audio drama holds a special place on our slate. We’ve put more scripted podcasts on Apple’s top charts than any other company, and are particularly focused on producing original horror and thriller podcasts. So we are especially excited to partner with the Austin Film Festival to identify and celebrate new audio storytelling talent through AFF’s Fiction Podcast Competition.”, shared Molly Barton, CEO and Co-Founder of Realm.
Submit your podcast hereThe award seeks captivating audio series targeting Millennial and Gen-Z women, specifically in the realms of Horror, Thriller, or Romance/Soapy genres. Realm is seeking pilot scripts with a length of roughly 25-40 pages. These pilots should establish the show’s world, introduce the central character and their journey, and clearly define the stakes and overall tone. Most importantly, the scripts should be specifically crafted for the audio format – screenplays or teleplays will not be considered.
Winning entries will be awarded a cash prize of $1,000 along with $500 to cover travel expenses to attend the 31st annual Austin Film Festival, held from October 24th to 31st, 2024. Additionally, Realm executives will offer personalized script feedback and hold one-on-one meetings with fellowship winners.
The wait is over! Submissions for AFF’s 2024 Podcast Script Competition are now open. Don’t miss these deadlines: Early Bird (March 22nd), Regular (April 19th), Late (May 24th), and Extended (July 6th).
About Realm
Led by industry veterans from CAA, Disney, Warner Brothers, Spotify, and NBC Universal, Realm is a force to be reckoned with in the podcasting world. Boasting a global network, the studio partners with top-tier talent and entertainment companies like Blumhouse, Paramount, Warner Bros, DC, AMC Networks, Marvel, Spotify, and iHeart. Their focus lies in developing, producing, distributing, and monetizing immersive audio series that deeply resonate with audiences.
Realm has consistently delivered chart-topping fiction shows, with an impressive eight series reaching the coveted #1 spot on Apple Podcasts. Their productions have garnered critical acclaim, receiving nominations and winning numerous awards, including Audies, Ambies, Webbys, Signal Awards, and iHeart Podcast Awards. Realm Originals have been translated into over a dozen languages, captivating listeners in more than 195 countries. Currently, eight of their original shows are being developed for film and television adaptations.
Some of Realm’s notable titles include the #1 Spotify podcast “HARLEY QUINN & THE JOKER: SOUND MIND” starring Christina Ricci and Billy Magnussen, “THE FLASH: ESCAPE THE MIDNIGHT CIRCUS” featuring Max Greenfield, and fan favorites like “OUTLIERS” voiced by Rory Culkin, “IF I GO MISSING THE WITCHES DID IT” starring Oscar-nominated actress Gabourey Sidibe, “ORPHAN BLACK: THE NEXT CHAPTER” and “POWER TRIP” starring Emmy-winner Tatiana Maslany, “MARIGOLD BREACH” featuring Jameela Jamil and Manny Jacinto, and “ECHO PARK” starring Harry Shum Jr.
About Austin Film Festival & Writers Conference
Celebrating its 31st year, the Austin Film Festival & Writers Conference is a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing the artistry, craft, and business acumen of writers and filmmakers. They recognize and celebrate contributions to film, television, theater, and new media. AFF champions both aspiring and established storytellers by facilitating unique cultural events and services, fostering public engagement, and cultivating dynamic community partnerships. This initiative is partially supported by the Cultural Arts Division of The City of Austin Economic Development Department and the Texas Commission on the Arts. The 31st annual event is scheduled for October 24th to 31st, 2024. All attendees and events are subject to permitting schedules and may be changed or cancelled without notice. Badges and passes can be purchased online at www.austinfilmfestival.com or by calling 1-800-310-FEST.