On this episode, Chris Jones sits down with Paniota, a talented individual who has made her mark in the creative industry. Paniota shares her experience at Talent Campus and how it gave her the confidence and inspiration to pursue her dreams. She talks about the importance of taking control of your own destiny and not waiting for others to give you permission. Paniota also discusses her journey in putting on a successful play and producing her short film, Loose Strands. She emphasizes the value of hard work, being proactive, and building a supportive community. Tune in for this empowering conversation and get inspired to write a page a day towards your own creative goals.

Matt White's journey from Talent Campus participant to successful filmmaker is a testament to the power of perseverance and networking. He describes the Talent Campus as "the most awesome cult I've ever joined in my life," highlighting the invaluable peer network he developed through the program. This network proved crucial in his subsequent projects, including the feature film "Paul Dude's Deadly Lunch Break."

The making of "Paul Dood's Deadly Lunch Break" showcases the collaborative nature of filmmaking. Matt and his director friend, Nick Gillespie, transformed a dark thriller into a black comedy, involving talented actors and navigating the festival circuit. The film premiered at South by Southwest and later found its way to streaming platforms. Matt emphasizes the importance of being "beautifully ruthless" in pursuing opportunities and building connections after the film's release.

One of the most significant takeaways from Matt's experience is the value of on-set experience for writers. He encourages aspiring screenwriters to "get on set, be a runner" to better understand the collaborative process of filmmaking. This hands-on experience can provide invaluable insights into how various crew members contribute to and enhance the original vision.

Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Matt's story is his journey to overcome his fear of public speaking. The Talent Campus experience helped him embrace his natural energy and enthusiasm, leading to success in pitching competitions. His win at the Sundance London pitching competition, where he pitched the feature film version of "The Sin Eater," stands out as a testament to his growth and the skills he developed through the program.

Twisted 50 is a collection of 50 short horror stories, aimed at giving aspiring writers the chance to be published and recognized. The project originated from the London Screenwriters Festival, where Chris Jones and his team identified a significant challenge for new writers: securing their first credit.

• Submissions: Writers are encouraged to submit short horror stories under 2000 words.
• Community Engagement: Each participant must read and review two other stories, fostering a supportive writing community.
• Feedback Loop: After receiving feedback, writers can revise and resubmit their stories, enhancing their craft in the process.

Horror is a genre that resonates deeply with many writers and readers. Chris Jones explains his passion for horror, citing influences from the 1980s, including James Herbert and Hammer House of Horror. Here’s why horror is the chosen genre for Twisted 50:

• Accessibility: Horror stories can be concise yet impactful, making them ideal for short formats.
• Creativity: The genre allows for a wide range of storytelling styles, from psychological thrillers to dark humor.
• Visual Appeal: As a filmmaker, Chris wanted to create a project that not only tells compelling stories but also engages readers visually.

Joining the Twisted 50 community comes with numerous advantages:

• Get Published: Being part of the anthology means you’ll have a published story, adding credibility to your writing portfolio.
• Networking Opportunities: Engage with fellow writers and industry professionals at launch parties and events.
• Amazon Bestselling Status: With 50 writers promoting the book, there’s a strong chance it will hit the horror bestseller list on Amazon.

One of the fascinating aspects of horror is its ability to bring people together. As Chris notes, many who find themselves in challenging situations, such as mental health struggles, often gravitate towards horror. This shared interest creates a unique community where individuals can find solace in the creepy and macabre. Here are some reasons why horror resonates with so many:

• Shared Experience: Horror allows people to confront their fears in a safe environment, fostering a sense of connection.
• Dedicated Fan Base: The horror genre boasts a passionate and loyal following, eager for fresh, creative content.
• Niche Opportunities: By focusing on specific sub-genres, like zombie stories, writers can tap into dedicated audiences that crave more.

If you’re considering submitting to Twisted 50, here are some valuable tips:

1. Craft a Strong Opening: Your first line should grab attention. For instance, “It’s strange how human flesh tastes just like pork” sets a dark tone immediately.
2. Focus on Prose: Ensure your writing is evocative and concise. Avoid passive voice and strive for impactful imagery.
3. Explore Themes: Don’t shy away from exploring complex emotions like loss or melancholy. Horror can be deeply psychological.
4. Embrace Feedback: Use the feedback from peers to refine your story. This process is invaluable for growth as a writer.
5. Be Creative with Tropes: Consider how traditional horror elements, like zombies or vampires, can be reimagined in contemporary settings. Think outside the box!

If you’re ready to take the plunge into horror writing, consider submitting your story to Twisted 50. With a supportive community and the chance to be published, this initiative offers a unique opportunity for aspiring writers.