WBD Access, HBO Max & Series Mania reveal Script Engine writers

Warner Bros. Discovery’s talent development division WBD Access, sibling streamer HBO Max and Series Mania Institute have announced the 12 writers selected for Script Engine.

The European programme supports mid-level screenwriters as they develop original, locally rooted series. Three writers from each participating market - France, Germany, Italy and Spain - were selected following a competitive application process.

From France, the writers are Tolula Dada, Justine Gautier and Storm Sigal-Battesti. Germany’s selected writers are Tunde Aladese, Stefanie Ren and Ben Braeunlich.

Italy’s cohort comprises Tommaso Matano, Emanuele Mochi and Simona Nobile. In Spain, the selected writers are Jesica Aran, Lidia Fraga and Miguel Mayorga Moscoso.

The four-month scheme includes a series of workshops, masterclasses and networking opportunities in London led by HBO Max drama executives including Joey Chavez, Clint LaVigne and Jennifer Wessner, alongside creatives such as Neal Baer (Designated Survivor, ER).

Participants are now developing original series concepts that they will present to HBO Max executives in November.

The curriculum is delivered with support from Series Mania Institute and HBO Max executives, who helped shape the programme and provide industry insight.

Veteran showrunner Frank Spotnitz (Leonardo, The X-Files, The Man in the High Castle) is leading the cohort as lead facilitator.

“European storytelling has never been in greater demand. Audiences around the world are looking for distinctive voices and stories that reflect different cultures and perspectives, and European writers are increasingly creating work that travels internationally,” he said.

“Script Engine is important because it doesn’t just help writers develop their craft, it introduces them to a collaborative way of working that empowers writers to do their best work. By encouraging creative ambition, intellectual rigor and the free exchange of ideas, the programme gives mid-level writers the confidence, skills and professional mindset to build sustainable international careers.”

Grace Moss, vice president of inclusion pipeline programs for WBD, said the Access scheme “exists to cultivate creative talent and create pathways” into the company.

“Script Engine brings that ambition to life through an expanded cohort, a multi-month curriculum, and close collaboration with the local HBO Max teams. The programme gives writers the creative development, industry insight and professional connections to take the next step in their careers within Europe’s growing television landscape.”