As long as the lion is not asked his version of the story, tales of hunting will always glorify the hunter.”
Bridge + Tunnel Productions, in collaboration with OBraveNewStory Institute, is thrilled to announce the return of THE WHALE Screenwriting Lab for its third consecutive year. The cross-country lab will take place in the vibrant capital of Reykjavík, Iceland, from March 22nd to March 25th, 2026, with a pitching session in Paris later in the year.
The 2026 session will host 15 talented emerging screenwriters for a rigorous, three-day writers’ room workshop and a follow up pitch day in Paris and online later in the year. Hosted in collaboration with our long-time partner, the StockFish Film Festival, participants will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the inspiring natural landscape of the North of Iceland while honing their craft under the guidance of top industry professionals.
B+T founder and director Tina Gharavi will be this year’s lab mentor. The programme also offers an incredible 12-month writing group follow-up, hosted online by LA-based screenwriter Matt Graham.
THE WHALE was founded on the desire to champion unconventional narratives and bring authentic voices ‘from the margins to the mainstream.’ The Institute’s vision is a balanced and equitable film industry where all experiences have the freedom and platform to be told.
Submissions for THE WHALE 2026 are open via FilmFreeway.
Click here for more information about the lab and the OBraveNewStory Institute’s wider initiatives.