Storyhouse is a two-day event in Dublin where leading Irish and international film writers and directors are gathered to share their advice and experiences of the craft of screenwriting.
Created by Oscar-winning producer and Dubliner Ed Guiney, it takes place at Dublin's Light House Cinema and features panels, workshops and interviews.
"We are a nation of storytellers and I think we need to put more emphasis on those stories for screen," Mr Guiney said.
"We have been lucky to invite some leading voices to come here to Dublin and meet emerging filmmakers," he said.
With a focus on supporting the next generation of screenwriters, it provides a platform for emerging talent to engage with industry veterans including acclaimed Irish and international screenwriters and storytellers.
The speakers include Oscar winner Peter Straughan (Conclave - screenwriter, Wolf Hall), Nia DaCosta, (director of The Marvels from the Marvel franchise, Candyman), Lenny Abrahamson (Room, Normal People), writer Kenneth Lonergan (Manchester By The Sea, You Can Count On Me) and Laurie Nunn (Sex Education).
Peter Straughan - who won the Academy award for best adapted screenplay for Conclave, said: "When I look back at my writing I seem to be drawn to stories of loyalty and betrayal.
"The character that Ralph Fiennes plays in Conclave, quite like George Simey in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, they are both slightly tired, slightly defeated men who nevertheless remain loyal to an ideal or a character."
Mr Straughan said that he was delighted to be in Dublin to share his advice.
"I used to go to these kinds of workshops when I was younger and I always found them really valuable."
In addition to the masterclass sessions, the topics of discussion will include the craft of writing horror, navigating Hollywood, approaching low budget filmmaking and writing films and television in the Irish language.
Storyhouse is a not-for-profit initiative set up by Academy Award-nominated producer and co-CEO of Element Pictures, Ed Guiney.
Nia DaCosta has been getting some limelight of her own in recent years as an exciting talent in the film industry.
Her own writing and directing, including the film Little Woods, first drew industry attention to her, and she directed the remake of Candyman horror classic.
She then went on to direct The Marvels, part of the Marvel universe.
She is the first black woman to direct a Marvel movie and said that she really enjoyed the experience.
"Especially working with such fantastic women with such a strong cast," she said, in reference to the film which starred Brie Larson and Teyonah Parris.
"It’s a great experience to work in major IP like the Marvel universe," she said, "but it’s important keep writing your stories and telling them in your way too," she added.
Next up for Ms DaCosta is Hedda in 2026.
In parallel with the main event, the organisers have developed Storyhouse Lab, a unique interactive programme which takes place over five days.
For Shannon Welby, this experience offers her "the chance to meet really experienced people".
"But also it gives me the chance to meet writers who are also working on their scripts.
"It gives us the chance to talk to each other and discuss so much."
Speaking about the initiative, founder Ed Guiney said: "We’re delighted to welcome an incredible roster of talent to this year’s Storyhouse, and we look forward to hosting insightful sessions that are set to inspire and ignite creativity, giving emerging voices the chance to connect, learn, and develop their craft alongside industry leaders."
Finally, what is Peter Straughan’s parting advice to rending filmmakers?
"Yes, a film project can take years, but wherever possible, try and make sure that there’s that personal emotional connection to the story because that’s what will keep you alive to the project, no matter how long it takes!"
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