Support the Melissa Mathison Award

Established in 2016, the Melissa Mathison Award is named for the late Hollywood screenwriter. The Award supports the annual HIFF Screenwriters Lab, which pairs emerging screenwriters with established screenwriters, directors and producers for a collaborative weekend of one-on-one mentoring sessions each spring. In particular, the Award is instrumental in ensuring that female voices are showcased for […]

Cannes Luncheon Celebrates Melissa Mathison, Women in Film

Last week, on a stunningly beautiful Côte d’Azur day overlooking Cannes and the Mediterranean, a cadre of accomplished women in film professionals gathered at the Villa Valnalou to pay tribute to the late screenwriter Melissa Mathison. The film based on her final screenplay—THE BFG, directed by Steven Spielberg—recently screened out of competition at the Cannes Film Festival. In continuation of their annual women […]

HIFF Screenwriters Lab: 2016 Selections & Mentors Announced

HIFF is proud to announce the mentors and screenwriters for the 16th Annual Screenwriters Lab, which takes place April 8-10 in East Hampton. The Lab pairs up-and-coming screenwriters with established screenwriters, directors and producers for a series of one-on-one mentoring sessions. “The Screenwriters Lab is a highlight of the year-round work that HIFF does as we bring together […]

HIFF 2016 Screenwriters Lab: Inaugural Melissa Mathison Fund, Master Class

HIFF is proud to announce the inaugural Melissa Mathison Fund, named for the late Hollywood screenwriter, which will support the 16th Annual Screenwriters Lab next month. In addition, the Lab will present its first ever public event: a Master Class with Oscar®-winning screenwriter Alexander Dinelaris. The annual Screenwriters Lab which pairs emerging screenwriters with established screenwriters, directors and producers for […]