the WRITERS’ room
“So many times I thought my script was bulletproof just to find out it had some holes and plot points, dialogue, or other areas that needed tweaking. I’ve been part of three writing groups, and RFN Screenwriters’ Lab has been the most beneficial.”
screenwriters’ lab
The Richmond Film Network Screenwriters’ Lab is a collaborative, craft-focused space where screenwriters at all stages of their journey can refine their work through informed, multi-perspective critique. Designed to elevate the quality of screenplays and support the professional development of writers, the Lab emphasizes story structure, character development, dialogue, tone, and overall narrative effectiveness.
Writers submit scripts to receive thoughtful, candid feedback from a rotating group of engaged peers—fellow writers who offer fresh insights, identify narrative strengths and weaknesses, and pose creative solutions for consideration. All scripts are expected to meet a baseline standard of formatting competence to ensure the focus remains on story, not structure.
Participants may engage in one of three roles:
Writers workshop their scripts in a roundtable-style format, hearing live feedback and engaging in brief discussion around key elements of their work. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed for alignment with Lab goals.
Peer Critics commit to reading scripts in advance and offering detailed, actionable notes during the session. These participants typically have writing or development experience and are essential to the Lab’s creative rigor. RSVP is required to receive scripts ahead of each session.
Observers are welcome to audit sessions to gain insight into story analysis, feedback dynamics, and the creative process, often as a prelude to future participation as a writer or critic.
The RFN Screenwriters’ Lab fosters a professional, supportive environment where serious writers can grow their craft, deepen their understanding of storytelling, and build meaningful creative relationships within the Richmond screenwriting community.
Check our EVENTS tab for the next scheduled Screenwriters’ Lab.
become a member of the lab
Local participants must be RFN members—and it’s still free to join!
Not in the Richmond area? Become a REMOTE MEMBER.
Interested in receiving private feedback or script edits outside of a Lab format from an individual reader? Please inquire HERE.
screenwriting showdown
The Richmond Film Network Screenwriting Showdown is a dynamic competition celebrating the art of storytelling for the screen! Whether you're a seasoned screenwriter or a passionate newcomer, this is your chance to showcase your voice, compete with fellow creatives, and make your mark on the Richmond independent film scene.
This year, we're rolling out the red carpet for short-form storytelling. Our 2025 competition is open exclusively to short screenplays. With the incredible enthusiasm from Richmond’s creative community, we anticipate expanding to include feature-length scripts in 2026.
We are looking for compelling narratives, unforgettable characters, and scripts that have the potential to come alive on screen.
FIRST PAGES literary magazine
Introducing FIRST PAGES, a celebration of Richmond’s screenwriting talent!
Richmond’s screenwriters have stories to tell—and FIRST PAGES brings them to life. This debut literary magazine from the Richmond Film Network is a one-of-a-kind collection featuring selected first pages of scripts workshopped in the RFN Screenwriters’ Lab over its first two years. Every piece in this volume is the work of local writers who have honed their craft in our monthly labs, refining their scripts through constructive feedback and community collaboration.
Part reference book, part historical record, and all entertainment, FIRST PAGES offers a rare glimpse into the rewriting process, showcasing original and revised script openings side by side. It's an essential resource for aspiring writers, a testament to Richmond’s thriving storytelling scene, and engaging teasers for anyone who loves film and great writing.
To make this issue even more special, we’ve complemented scripts with stunning artwork from local illustrators and photographers, making FIRST PAGES not just a literary magazine, but a collector’s piece.
Order your copy today on Amazon!
To submit your FIRST PAGES for publishing consideration in a future edition of our literary magazine, inquire HERE.
