Server Overwhelmed by Screenwriters Applying for HBO Writing Fellowship

Posted on March 4, 2015

The servers crashed at HBO this morning because of all the screenwriters applying for the HBOAccess Writing Fellowship. Deadline reports that so many people tried to fill out the application for the highly coveted positions that the server was overwhelmed and crashed.

This is the second year that HBO has run the program: last year the fellowship was for aspiring directors. Those that are chosen for the program attend a week of master classes at HBO in Santa Barbara. The classes will be comprehensive and practical, focusing on story development, character development, idea pitching, getting a agent and networking. Each writer then is paired up with an HBO Development executive and for the next eight months writes a script to present to HBO.

It's an amazing opportunity, but it's not easy to get accepted into the program. Applicants must submit their resume, writing sample and a personal essay through the Without a Box site. Last year four directors were chosen for the program. Their short films will air on HBO GO and HBO On Demand in March. .

HBO told Deadline that it will expand the number of applicants and and will grant waivers to people who could not get their application in due to the site crash. You can find out more about the program and submit your application here.