2024 Sloan Student Prize finalists: An exciting year for screenwriters

The anticipation surrounding 2024 Sloan Student Prize is reaching new heights as ‍the Museum of the ​Moving Image and ⁢the Sloan Foundation proudly ‌announce the finalists. ⁣Nine ‍talented student screenwriters​ have been selected for their exceptional science-themed screenplays. These promising writers⁣ will receive invaluable‌ year-round mentorship, ⁤with two winners set to receive a $20,000 prize.

Industry experts ⁢mentor the⁤ chosen few

One of the most compelling aspects of the Sloan Student Prize ⁣is ​its prestigious mentorship program. This year, the finalists will be​ guided by an illustrious panel of mentors, including:

• Graham Slack, author of “The Harvard Computers”
• Gillian Weeks, screenwriter of ‍“Let There Be Light”
• Temi Ojo, writer and director of “A Man ⁣with a Missing Face”
• Chadd Hatbold, filmmaker of “The Wrath of‌ Becky”
• Jordan McCray, known for “Committed”

These mentors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, offering unique insights and guidance ‍that are sure ​to shape the future of ‌these aspiring screenwriters.

Collaboration with leading film institutions

The Sloan⁢ Foundation’s collaborative spirit is‍ evident in its ​partnerships with⁤ six esteemed film schools:

• American Film Institute
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Columbia University
• New York University
• University of Southern California
• UCLA

Finalists from these⁤ institutions will compete for the prestigious Sloan Grand ‌Jury Prize. In tandem, students from six other schools‍ will vie for the Sloan Discovery Prize, benefiting from the same mentoring process. This inclusive approach ensures a ‍diverse range of voices and stories, enhancing ⁢the richness and depth of the competition.

Evolution of ⁢the Sloan Grand Jury Prize

First established ​in 2011, the⁣ Grand Jury Prize has long ⁢been a cornerstone of‍ the Sloan Foundation’s efforts to promote science in storytelling. Recognizing the need for broader ⁢inclusion, the program was expanded in 2019 to introduce the Discovery Prize, encouraging⁢ participation from⁢ public universities. This expansion not only democratized the competition but also ​brought fresh perspectives to the fore.

This year’s finalists—five for the Grand Jury​ Prize and four for the Discovery Prize—represent the ‍pinnacle of student screenwriting talent. The winners⁣ will ⁤be celebrated⁤ at the Sloan awards ceremony during⁢ the⁤ Museum’s⁤ First Look festival in March, where their work will be brought to⁣ life through readings by professional actors.

Spotlight on the finalists

Sloan Student Grand Jury Prize 2024 Finalists:

• Zoe Milenkovic from American ‍Film Institute — “It Revolves Around Tycho” (Feature)
• Elle Thon from Carnegie Mellon University — “Tamarack” (Series)
• Katla Sólnes from Columbia University — “Eruption” (Feature)
• Sarah Morales from University of California —​ “Cécile” ‍(Feature)
• Brittany Wang from University of Southern California — “Thin Ice” (Series)

Sloan Student Discovery Prize 2024 Finalists:

• Aleeza ​Claire from Florida State University — “Grapefruit” (Feature)
• Liv Hallie Stephenson from SUNY ​Purchase — “Abel’s Baby” (Series)
• Erica Lobati from Temple University — “Treat ‍Me Well”⁣ (Feature)
• Yoel Gebremariam from University of Michigan — “Impact” (Feature)

Expanding the boundaries of storytelling

The Sloan Student Prize is an exemplary initiative that ‌continues to ‍push the boundaries of what storytelling can achieve. By⁣ intertwining science with narrative ⁢art, this competition fosters​ a deeper understanding​ of scientific concepts while showcasing the immense talent of student screenwriters. The mentorship they receive not only ​enhances their craft but also prepares them for a successful career in ​the industry.

The vital role of ‍mentorship and collaboration

Mentorship⁢ in screenwriting​ is invaluable. It provides novice writers with the tools and knowledge they need​ to refine their work. ⁤The ⁤Sloan Foundation mentors are not only experienced professionals but also passionate about guiding the ‌next generation ​of storytellers. Their involvement ensures that each screenplay benefits from critical feedback and expert advice, which is⁢ paramount for storytelling that is both‍ scientifically accurate ⁢and dramatically compelling.

Uniting creativity and scientific inquiry

The Sloan Foundation’s focus on ‌science-themed storytelling underscores the importance of‌ merging ⁤creativity with scientific ‍inquiry. This approach prepares audiences for ​a future where science ‍and technology play increasingly prominent roles. By nurturing student writers who can‌ articulate complex scientific concepts through engaging narratives, the ⁤foundation contributes ‍to a more informed ‌and inspired society.

Join the conversation

The impact of the Sloan Student Prize extends beyond the screenplays themselves. It sparks conversations about the role‌ of science in society and the power of storytelling to convey profound truths. As these finalists ⁢embark on their journeys, their stories will undoubtedly ‍resonate with audiences around the world, inspiring new generations of writers‌ and scientists alike.

For more ‌insights into ⁤these exceptional works, visit ⁤the‍ student prize section and ‌share this exciting news on your social ⁢media channels ​to support the next wave of talented screenwriters. Stay updated with our latest​ articles ‌to follow the journey of ‍these promising finalists.