The Screenwriters Program - Oxbelly Retreat
Fully funded 8-day international residency for writer-directors developing their second fiction feature film in Greece, July 2026.
The Oxbelly Screenwriters Program is an intensive creative residency designed specifically for writer-directors working on their second fiction feature film. Taking place in Costa Navarino, Messinia, Greece from July 1-9, 2026, this fully funded program brings together international filmmakers in a collaborative environment focused on deep script development, artistic risk-taking, and strengthening each participant's unique cinematic voice.
The program operates in two phases. Phase 1 (first four days) focuses on intensive script development through one-on-one mentorship sessions with experienced writer-director advisors and targeted craft workshops. Phase 2 (remaining days) introduces special guests including established directors, actors, cinematographers, composers, and producers, along with creatives from theatre, visual arts, and literature to broaden narrative perspectives.
Program goals include strengthening screenwriting craft and authorial voice, deepening script development through mentorship, encouraging experimentation and narrative risk-taking, fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue, and building long-term creative relationships. The working language is English.
The program is completely free for selected fellows. Oxbelly covers all costs including flights, accommodation, and meals, allowing participants to focus entirely on their creative work. Advisors and industry professionals continue supporting fellows' projects after the retreat concludes, providing ongoing career guidance.
Interim programming brings together all Oxbelly participants across disciplines for curated discussions on writing craft, readings, film screenings, and panel conversations exploring storytelling across artistic forms. Screenwriting fellows also interact with the Fiction Writers Program participants, encouraging cross-pollination of ideas.