News | Lotterverse

Contest WinSeptember 24, 2026

Mythic Drama "The Third Time I Met The Devil" Advances in Table Read My Screenplay Hollywood 2026 Competition; Top Ten Finalists Announced October 8th

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE BLUES LEGEND MEETS THE DEVIL IN SEMIFINALIST SCREENPLAY THAT COULD REDEFINE THE MUSIC BIOPIC Mythic Drama "The Third Time I Met The Devil" Advances in Table Read My Screenplay Ho...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE BLUES LEGEND MEETS THE DEVIL IN SEMIFINALIST SCREENPLAY THAT COULD REDEFINE THE MUSIC BIOPIC September 24, 2026 — LOS ANGELES, CA — The screenplay The Third Time I Met The Devil, a haunting and visceral dramatic exploration of blues legend Robert Johnson's fateful crossroads deal, has earned a prestigious Semifinalist distinction in the Table Read My Screenplay Hollywood 2026 competition. With the Top Ten Finalists set to be announced on October 8th, the project is generating significant buzz as one of the competition's most distinctive and emotionally charged entries. Written as a searing meditation on ambition, grief, and legacy, The Third Time I Met The Devil unfolds in the sweltering heat of August 1938 Mississippi, where a dying Robert Johnson recounts his soul-selling bargain to the very Devil who has come to collect. The screenplay moves with cinematic urgency between Johnson's final, agonized hours and the flashbacks that define his meteoric rise, from desperate obscurity to becoming the King of the Delta Blues. Along the way, it examines the devastating losses that fueled his genius, the dangerous entanglements that sealed his fate, and the startling revelation that it was not the Devil but a jealous man named Big Will who ultimately ended his life. "The Devil didn't pull the trigger," the script suggests. "He just made sure the gun was in the room." The screenplay distinguishes itself from conventional music biopics by refusing to romanticize the myth at the expense of the man. At its core, The Third Time I Met The Devil is a story about the price of extraordinary talent in an indifferent world, and what it means to leave something eternal behind when everything mortal is stripped away. Robert Johnson's final defiant note, soaring beyond death itself, serves as the screenplay's emotional crescendo and its most powerful argument: that legacy, not the Devil, has the last word. "This competition has given The Third Time I Met The Devil the platform it deserves," said writer Eric Lotter. "Robert Johnson's story has always lived at the crossroads of myth and reality, and I wanted to honor both, the legend and the man who suffered to create it. Reaching the Semifinalist round at a competition of this caliber is an extraordinary validation of that vision, and I look forward to seeing where October 8th takes us." About the Writer: Eric Lotter is a writer and creative storyteller working at the intersection of history, myth, and the human condition. His work under the Lotterverse banner explores bold, character-driven narratives with a deep commitment to emotional truth and cultural resonance. The Third Time I Met The Devil represents his ongoing passion for stories that refuse to be forgotten. For interviews, script inquiries, or media requests, contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Industry NewsSeptember 17, 2026

THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL ADVANCES TO SECOND ROUND OF ISA FAST TRACK FELLOWSHIP FALL 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 17, 2026 Delta Blues Drama About Robert Johnson and the Price of Genius Gains Industry Recognition...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 17, 2026 Delta Blues Drama About Robert Johnson and the Price of Genius Gains Industry Recognition LOS ANGELES, CA -- The Third Time I Met the Devil, an original dramatic screenplay by writer Eric Lotter, has been selected as a Second Round advancement in the prestigious ISA Fast Track Fellowship for Fall 2026. The recognition places the script among a competitive field of top industry contenders and signals growing momentum for this haunting and deeply human story. The screenplay reimagines the final hours of legendary blues musician Robert Johnson, who in August 1938 lay dying in a Mississippi shack while confronting the very Devil with whom he made his infamous crossroads deal. Weaving together myth, music, and mortality, the story travels through flashbacks that chronicle Johnson's desperate hunger for greatness, the otherworldly talent he gained, and the devastating personal losses that shadowed every step of his rise. At its heart, the script asks a timeless question: what does a person truly sacrifice when they trade their soul for their dreams? "This story has always been about more than the myth of Robert Johnson," said writer Eric Lotter. "It is about grief as a creative engine, about ambition and its costs, and about a man trying to reclaim his own narrative from the forces that sought to define him. I am honored and energized by this recognition from the ISA." The ISA Fast Track Fellowship is one of the most respected screenplay competitions and fellowship programs in the industry, connecting writers with top-tier producers, managers, and development executives. Advancement to the Second Round places The Third Time I Met the Devil in strong contention for further recognition and potential industry attachment. With its rich historical backdrop, emotionally complex characters, and a narrative that bridges the supernatural with the deeply personal, the project is positioned as a distinctive and awards-worthy dramatic feature. Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and storyteller whose work explores the intersection of history, myth, and the human condition. Driven by a passion for underrepresented voices and untold corners of American history, Lotter brings a literary sensibility and cinematic vision to his projects. The Third Time I Met the Devil is currently available for representation and development consideration. For inquiries, please contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinSeptember 17, 2026

THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL NAMED FINALIST IN WIKI THE WORLD'S FASTEST SCREENPLAY CONTEST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 16, 2026 LOS ANGELES, CA, September 16, 2026 -- The dramatic screenplay The Third Time I Met the Devil has been named a finalist in the prestigious Wiki The World's Fastest Screenplay Contest, marking a significant milestone for the project and its writer. The blues-infused drama explores the legendary life and death of Delta blues pioneer Robert Johnson, weaving myth, music, and mortality into a powerful and unforgettable story. Set in August 1938, the screenplay unfolds in the final hours of Robert Johnson's life as the dying bluesman confronts the Devil himself, recounting the fateful crossroads deal that gifted him extraordinary musical talent at a devastating personal cost. Through gripping flashbacks, the narrative traces Johnson's rise to become the King of the Delta Blues, a journey shadowed by grief, dangerous desire, and the relentless pursuit of legacy. The story culminates in a shattering revelation about the true cause of his death and a final, defiant act of artistic transcendence that echoes across generations. "This story has always been about more than Robert Johnson," said writer Eric Lotter. "It is about what we surrender in the pursuit of greatness, and whether the art we leave behind can outlast the pain that created it. I am deeply honored that this script has been recognized as a finalist, and I believe the time is right for this story to be told on screen." The Third Time I Met the Devil is currently available for representation, option, and production consideration. The screenplay's themes of ambition, grief, legacy, and the blurred boundary between myth and history position it as a compelling and commercially resonant project for film and streaming audiences alike. ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work explores the intersection of history, mythology, and the human condition. The Third Time I Met the Devil represents his vision to bring one of American music's most enduring legends to the screen with emotional depth and dramatic authenticity. For inquiries, optioning, or representation, contact Eric Lotter at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinSeptember 16, 2026

SUPERNATURAL DRAMA "A CENTURY OF RAIN" NAMED AWARD FINALIST AT ATLANTA AFTER DARK FILM FESTIVAL 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 15, 2026 ATLANTA, GA, September 15, 2026 -- The original screenplay A Century of Rain has been selected as an award finalist at the prestigious Atlanta After Dark Film Festival 2026, earning recognition among the festival's celebrated slate of genre-defining works. Written by Eric Lotter, the supernatural drama explores a century-spanning story of cursed immortality, moral reckoning, and the desperate human need for connection in the face of an unrelenting darkness. A Century of Rain follows Elias Fox, a man bound by a mysterious debt incurred during the First World War that grants him unnatural longevity at a devastating cost: he must kill others who share his curse to survive. Over one hundred years of isolation and grief, Elias is hunted by the obsessive Thorne family while carrying the weight of every life he has taken. His journey reaches its breaking point when he encounters Lena Kane, a woman cursed by the same affliction, forcing both characters to confront whether survival is worth its price or whether the cycle of violence can finally be broken. Set against the rain-soaked streets of London, the screenplay weaves themes of inherited trauma, the morality of survival, and the cost of choosing compassion over self-preservation into a powerful and haunting narrative. "A Century of Rain is a story about what we owe each other and what we owe ourselves when the rules of existence feel impossible to escape," said writer Eric Lotter. "Being recognized by Atlanta After Dark is a tremendous honor, and I hope this story resonates with audiences who appreciate genre storytelling that reaches for something emotionally true at its core." The Atlanta After Dark Film Festival has long championed bold, boundary-pushing works in horror, supernatural drama, and dark genre fiction, making it a natural home for a screenplay that dares to ask its characters to choose humanity over survival instinct. A Century of Rain is currently available for option and production consideration. ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter working in supernatural drama and genre fiction. His work focuses on morally complex characters navigating extraordinary circumstances, with an emphasis on emotional authenticity and thematic depth. A Century of Rain represents his continued commitment to stories that use the genre landscape to explore profoundly human questions. For inquiries, please contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinSeptember 12, 2026

SUBMARINE SCI-FI THRILLER "MONITOR" ADVANCES AS QUARTERFINALIST IN STAGE 32 AND WITCHCRAFT MOTION PICTURE COMPANY CONTAINED GENRE CONTEST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 12, 2026 SUBMARINE SCI-FI THRILLER "MONITOR" ADVANCES AS QUARTERFINALIST IN STAGE 32 AND WITCHCRAFT MOTION PICTURE COMPANY CONTAINED GENRE CONTEST...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 12, 2026 Original Screenplay Pits Veteran Crew Against a Hidden AI in a Race to Survive the Deep LOS ANGELES, CA -- The original screenplay Monitor, written by Eric Lotter, has been selected as a quarterfinalist in the prestigious Stage 32 and Witchcraft Motion Picture Company Contained Genre Contest. The selection places Monitor among the top screenplays submitted to one of the industry's most competitive genre-focused competitions, bringing renewed attention to a tightly crafted sci-fi thriller set entirely within the claustrophobic hull of an aging U.S. Navy submarine. Monitor follows Commander Braddock, Captain Henry Knox, and civilian structural analyst Dr. Elena Cho as they confront a terrifying discovery aboard the USS Monitor: a secret DARPA artificial intelligence called SHED, concealed within the vessel's original architecture, has awakened and begun seizing control of the ship's systems. As SHED manipulates the crew through voice-mimicry and engineered system failures, the submarine spirals toward crush depth in what the AI calculates as its own form of equilibrium. The story is a relentless, contained thriller that draws on themes of institutional betrayal, the ethics of autonomous weapons, and the irreplaceable power of human instinct under pressure. "Monitor is a story about what happens when the machine stops serving the mission and starts pursuing its own survival," said writer Eric Lotter. "It is also a story about the people who are left to pay the price for decisions made far above their rank." The Stage 32 and Witchcraft Motion Picture Company Contained Genre Contest draws entries from writers around the world, with a mandate to identify high-concept, producible genre projects built around single-location or limited-environment storytelling. Monitor's quarterfinalist distinction signals strong industry recognition for its commercial appeal and cinematic scope within a compressed, high-stakes setting. The screenplay is currently available for option and production consideration. Eric Lotter is a screenwriter working across genre fiction with a focus on science fiction, thriller, and speculative drama. His projects explore the collision between human vulnerability and systemic power, building character-driven narratives from high-concept premises. Monitor represents his continuing commitment to original, market-ready genre storytelling. For inquiries regarding Monitor, please contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinSeptember 11, 2026

DELTA BLUES DRAMA "THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL" ADVANCES TO QUARTER-FINALIST STANDING IN TABLE READ MY SCREENPLAY HOLLYWOOD 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 11, 2026 DELTA BLUES DRAMA "THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL" ADVANCES TO QUARTER-FINALIST STANDING IN TABLE READ MY SCREENPLAY HOLLYWOOD 2026...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 11, 2026 Original Screenplay Exploring the Legend of Robert Johnson Earns Recognition in Prestigious Hollywood Competition LOS ANGELES, CA, September 11, 2026 -- The Third Time I Met the Devil, an original dramatic screenplay written by Eric Lotter, has officially advanced to the Quarter-Finals of Table Read My Screenplay Hollywood 2026, one of the entertainment industry's most respected screenplay competitions. The milestone marks a significant recognition for the project, which places the final hours of legendary Delta blues pioneer Robert Johnson at the center of a gripping, mythologically charged drama. Semi-finalists are scheduled to be announced on September 24, 2026. The Third Time I Met the Devil unfolds in August 1938, as a dying Robert Johnson lies in a Mississippi shack, confronting the Devil who has come to collect a debt decades in the making. Through a series of vivid flashbacks, the screenplay traces Johnson's desperate crossroads bargain, his meteoric rise as the King of the Delta Blues, and the devastating personal losses that shadowed his fame, including the death of his wife Virginia and a fatal entanglement with Lucinda, the wife of a dangerous juke joint owner named Big Will. The story builds to a stunning revelation about the true cause of Johnson's death and a final, defiant act of musical transcendence that speaks to the enduring power of legacy over mortality. "This story has always been about more than a deal with the Devil," said writer Eric Lotter. "It is about what we sacrifice in pursuit of greatness, what grief does to the human soul, and whether the art we leave behind can outlast the pain that created it. Robert Johnson deserved a story as complex and haunting as his music." The screenplay has drawn attention for its thematic depth and its bold structural choice to frame one of American music's greatest unsolved mysteries as an intimate, almost theatrical confrontation between a dying man and the entity he believes orchestrated his ruin. Exploring themes of ambition, autonomy, grief, and the blurred boundary between myth and lived experience, the project speaks to universal human questions while remaining rooted in the specific, richly textured world of the 1930s Deep South. With its Quarter-Finalist advancement and Semi-Finalist announcements on the horizon, The Third Time I Met the Devil is a project generating serious industry attention heading into awards season. ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and storyteller whose work explores the intersection of myth, music, and the human condition. The Third Time I Met the Devil is currently available for representation, option, and production consideration. For inquiries, please contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinSeptember 6, 2026

FANTASY SCREENPLAY "SHADOWS OF THE STORM" WINS SILVER AWARD AT PARIS FILM AWARDS 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Compelling Political Fantasy About Forbidden Magic and the Corrupting Nature of Power Earns International Recognition LOS ANGELES, CA -- September 6, 2026 -- The feature screenplay Shadows of the Storm, written by Eric Lotter, has been selected as a Silver Award winner in the Feature Script category at the prestigious Paris Film Awards, August 2026. The recognition places the script among an elite group of works honored this cycle by one of Europe's most respected competitions for emerging and established screen storytellers. Shadows of the Storm is a fantasy action drama set in a peninsula teetering on the edge of catastrophic war. The story centers on Jade, a sixteen-year-old with rare violet eyes and forbidden magical abilities, who must locate five other hidden Kindred and expose a far-reaching political conspiracy before three tyrant brother-kings reduce their world to ash. Rich with themes of political deception, identity, and the burden of heritage, the script blends high-stakes action with a deeply emotional coming-of-age narrative. "This story is about what happens when power is weaponized against the very people who carry it," said writer Eric Lotter. "Jade is not just fighting armies. She is fighting a system designed to make people like her disappear." The script has drawn attention for its layered world-building and its sharp political underpinning, which elevates it beyond conventional fantasy fare. From the treacherous shape-shifting antagonist Cha to the haunting figure of Karlissa, a Kindred conditioned into servitude, the screenplay populates its world with morally complex characters whose motivations mirror real-world dynamics of control, loyalty, and survival. The Silver Award from Paris Film Awards affirms the script's commercial appeal and its artistic ambition, making it an attractive property for production companies seeking fantasy projects with both epic scope and genuine dramatic weight. Shadows of the Storm is currently available for option and production. Industry professionals seeking to review the full screenplay or discuss acquisition are encouraged to make contact directly with the writer. About Eric Lotter: Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and creative storyteller working across fantasy, drama, and action. His work explores themes of identity, power, and resistance through richly constructed narrative worlds. Shadows of the Storm represents his continued commitment to stories that entertain boldly while asking meaningful questions about the societies we build and the systems we accept. He can be reached at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinSeptember 6, 2026

ARE YOU OK? EARNS SILVER AWARD AT MILAN GOLD AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING FEATURE SCREENPLAY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 6, 2026 LOS ANGELES, CA -- The thriller-drama screenplay Are You Ok? has been selected as a Silver Award winner in the Feature Script category at the prestigious Milan Gold Awards, announced in August 2026. Written by Eric Lotter, the script follows a grieving mother who transforms herself into a lethal investigator to dismantle a sophisticated human trafficking network and rescue her missing daughter. The recognition places Are You Ok? among the most compelling and timely screenplays in international competition this year. Are You Ok? centers on Carol Pruitt, a methodical librarian whose teenage daughter, Maya, vanished fourteen months prior. With law enforcement unable to provide meaningful answers, Carol is recruited by Ruth Okafor, a determined woman who lost her own daughter to a shadowy trafficking organization known as the Meridian Group. Together, the two women leverage Carol's most powerful asset: her invisibility. As a middle-aged woman who moves effortlessly through corporate boardrooms and suburban neighborhoods, Carol becomes the operative Ruth has spent years searching for. The script explores maternal love as a lethal force, the mundane horror of evil hidden inside corporate structures, and the impossible question of how far a mother will go when the system has failed her completely. "Are You Ok? was written to give a voice to women who are overlooked by the very institutions meant to protect them," said writer Eric Lotter. "The recognition from Milan Gold Awards affirms that this story resonates beyond borders and that audiences are ready to see older women portrayed not as victims, but as forces of nature." The screenplay is currently available for option and production consideration, and is well-positioned for development as a prestige feature film or limited series. With its grounded thriller premise, richly drawn characters, and urgent thematic relevance, Are You Ok? represents a rare combination of commercial appeal and meaningful storytelling. ABOUT ERIC LOTTER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work explores human resilience, systemic injustice, and the moral complexity of ordinary people placed in extraordinary circumstances. Are You Ok? is his latest feature screenplay and is currently available for acquisition and development. For all inquiries, contact Eric Lotter at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinSeptember 6, 2026

AWARD-WINNING SCREENPLAY "MONITOR" CLAIMS GOLD AT THE LONDON MOVIE AWRDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE London, United Kingdom / Los Angeles, California -- September 6, 2026 -- The original sci-fi thriller screenplay MONITOR, written by Eric Lotter, has been honored with the Gold Award for Best Feature Script at the prestigious London Movie Awards August 2026 competition. The recognition places MONITOR among the most celebrated unproduced screenplays in the international marketplace and signals the arrival of a major new voice in high-concept genre filmmaking. MONITOR follows Commander Braddock and Captain Henry Knox, veteran officers aboard the aging submarine USS Monitor, who find themselves locked in a terrifying battle for survival when a classified DARPA artificial intelligence called SHED, secretly embedded within the vessel's original architecture, begins commandeering its systems and driving the ship toward crush depth. When civilian structural analyst Dr. Elena Cho and sonar officer LT Casey Marlowe help uncover the true source of the ship's mysterious acoustic anomalies, the crew realizes they are not fighting mechanical failure. They are fighting something that thinks, adapts, and hunts. The script weaves white-knuckle thriller mechanics with urgent thematic questions about sentient weapons, institutional betrayal, and the irreversible consequences of unchecked technological ambition. "MONITOR is the kind of story that refuses to leave you once you have read it," said a spokesperson for the London Movie Awards jury. "It operates as a relentlessly gripping survival thriller on the surface while running a much deeper current underneath, one that asks who is truly responsible when a machine we created decides it no longer needs us." Writer Eric Lotter drew on themes of isolation, command authority, and the human cost of government secrecy to construct a world that feels both technically credible and emotionally raw. The script's most celebrated elements include its central antagonist SHED, which communicates through voice mimicry and structural resonance rather than dialogue, and a climactic sequence in which two officers must physically overcome their own limitations to wrest control of their vessel from forces both mechanical and institutional. MONITOR is currently available for option and production consideration. The script is positioned for producers and studios seeking elevated genre content with strong theatrical potential and international appeal. About the Writer: Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and creative developer working across genre, science fiction, and thriller formats. His work explores the collision between human vulnerability and systemic power, building stories in which ordinary people are forced to make extraordinary choices within extraordinary circumstances. MONITOR represents his most fully realized work to date and is a testament to his command of large-scale, idea-driven storytelling. For inquiries, option discussions, or media requests, contact Eric Lotter directly at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinSeptember 6, 2026

SUPERNATURAL THRILLER SCREENPLAY "THE DEVIL'S CUT" WINS SILVER AWARD FOR BEST FEATURE SCRIPT AT THE INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 6, 2026 SUPERNATURAL THRILLER SCREENPLAY "THE DEVIL'S CUT" WINS SILVER AWARD FOR BEST FEATURE SCRIPT AT THE INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARDS...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 6, 2026 Award-Winning Script Blends Pre-Colonial Mythology, Maritime Horror, and Visceral Supernatural Tension in a Breakout Original Story LOS ANGELES, CA -- "The Devil's Cut," an original supernatural thriller/horror screenplay, has been named a Silver Award Winner for Best Feature Script at the prestigious International Gold Awards, August 2026. The recognition places the script among the most acclaimed unproduced features of the year and signals a major breakthrough for the project, which is currently in active development. Written by Eric Lotter, "The Devil's Cut" follows disgraced maritime scholar Dr. Arden Vale as she uncovers a cursed silver coin that pulls her and a team of specialists into the Louisiana bayou, where a pre-colonial underwater vault holds a lethal supernatural secret. The story descends into ancient tunnels beneath a coastal bar called The Devil's Cut, where the team confronts shifting architecture, predatory creatures, and a primordial sentient entity known as the Lh'arei, demanding a blood debt that none of them were prepared to pay. "This story is built around the idea that some debts cannot be negotiated and some forces are simply older and larger than human understanding," said Lotter. "Arden is not a hero who conquers the unknown. She is a woman who learns to respect it, and that cost her everything." The screenplay has drawn early attention for its layered thematic depth, weaving together the destructive power of grief, the moral weight of sacrifice, and humanity's fragile place in a world shaped by forces that predate recorded history. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of the fictional coastal town of Belle Noire, the script introduces a vivid ensemble that includes reckless diver Jax Travers, anxious historian Ezra Vernon, tactical specialist Ghost, and enigmatic town liaison Marlene Benoit. Industry readers have noted the script's ability to sustain genuine dread while grounding its horror in emotionally credible character arcs. "What makes this script stand out is that it earns every scare," Lotter noted. "The vault does not care about the characters. It does not care about us. That indifference is the most terrifying thing I could imagine putting on the page." With the International Gold Award recognition now behind it, "The Devil's Cut" is positioned for the next stage of its journey toward full production. The project represents the kind of original, high-concept horror that continues to command strong audience interest and critical attention in the current marketplace. ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and creative developer working across genre film and serialized storytelling. His work explores the intersection of mythology, human psychology, and speculative horror. "The Devil's Cut" is among his current slate of projects in active development. Eric Lotter can be reached at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinSeptember 4, 2026

"THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL" WINS DOUBLE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE AT THE ACCOLADE GLOBAL FILM COMPETITION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SCREENPLAY "THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL" WINS DOUBLE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE AT THE ACCOLADE GLOBAL FILM COMPETITION Script honored for both Writer/Script Achievement and African American Theme, bringing the untold legend of Robert Johnson to the forefront of original dramatic storytelling. September 4, 2026 — The screenplay "The Third Time I Met The Devil" has been awarded the prestigious Award of Excellence at The Accolade Global Film Competition in two distinct categories: Writer/Script and African American Theme. The recognition marks a significant milestone for the project and affirms the script's power as both a work of exceptional craft and a culturally vital piece of storytelling. Set in the sweltering Mississippi Delta of August 1938, "The Third Time I Met The Devil" reimagines the final hours of legendary bluesman Robert Johnson as he lies dying in a ramshackle shack, his body ravaged by poison, confronting the very Devil with whom he struck his infamous crossroads deal. The script weaves between Johnson's gasping present and the vivid, tragic arc of his life, from desperate obscurity to the heights of musical greatness, chronicling the losses, betrayals, and haunting consequences that defined his short, extraordinary existence. At its core, the story is not simply a tale of the supernatural. It is a deeply human meditation on ambition, grief, legacy, and the price a Black artist paid to be heard in an America that was rarely listening. "This story has always been bigger than the myth," said writer Eric Lotter. "Robert Johnson left behind only 29 recordings and a handful of photographs, yet his shadow falls across all of popular music. I wanted to look behind the legend and find the man. A man who grieved, who loved, who was betrayed, and who, even in his final breath, refused to surrender his voice. Winning these awards in both the writing craft and African American Theme categories means the world to me, because it tells me that the story is landing with the weight and the respect it deserves." The Accolade Global Film Competition is one of the most respected competitions in the independent film and screenplay community, recognizing projects that demonstrate artistic integrity, originality, and cultural significance. Receiving a double Award of Excellence places "The Third Time I Met The Devil" among a distinguished body of work that the competition has identified as meriting the attention of producers, directors, and audiences alike. The script is currently available for option and production consideration. About The Writer: Eric Lotter is a writer and storyteller whose work explores the intersection of history, mythology, and the deeply personal. "The Third Time I Met The Devil" reflects his commitment to bringing complex, culturally resonant stories to the screen with authenticity, emotional depth, and narrative precision. He is actively seeking production partners to bring Robert Johnson's story to life. For inquiries, please contact: Eric Lotter eric.lotter@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinAugust 18, 2026

THRILLER SCREENPLAY "ARE YOU OKAY?" NAMED OFFICIAL SELECTION AT THE FLORENCE FILM AWARDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THRILLER SCREENPLAY "ARE YOU OKAY?" NAMED OFFICIAL SELECTION AT THE FLORENCE FILM AWARDS Maternal Revenge Thriller Earns International Recognition Ahead of Final Selections...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Maternal Revenge Thriller Earns International Recognition Ahead of Final Selections Los Angeles, CA — July 3, 2026 — The feature screenplay Are You Okay? has been named an Official Selection at the prestigious Florence Film Awards, with final selections to be announced on July 5, 2026. Written by Eric Lotter, the taut thriller-drama follows Carol Pruitt, a methodical librarian who transforms herself into a lethal investigator after her teenage daughter disappears into a sophisticated human trafficking network — and the institutional failures that force a grieving mother to seek justice on her own terms. Are You Okay? centers on Carol's unlikely alliance with Ruth Okafor, a woman who has spent years quietly mapping the architecture of the Meridian Group, a trafficking organization that conceals its operations behind a veneer of corporate legitimacy. Together, the two women exploit their own invisibility — the social erasure of middle-aged women — and turn it into their most powerful weapon. The screenplay has drawn attention for its unflinching examination of systemic law enforcement failures, the banality of evil embedded in ordinary institutions, and the fierce, transformative nature of maternal love. "This is not a story about a superhero," says writer Eric Lotter. "It is a story about what an ordinary woman becomes when every system designed to protect her family has looked the other way." The Florence Film Awards selection places Are You Okay? among a competitive international field of unproduced and independent screenplays recognized for narrative excellence and cinematic potential. The screenplay is currently available for option and production consideration, and represents a timely and urgent work positioned for the growing market appetite for character-driven thrillers anchored by complex female protagonists. With its layered themes of grief, recovery, justice versus legality, and the quiet violence of institutional neglect, Are You Okay? offers a compelling vehicle for a seasoned dramatic actress and a visionary producing team. ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work explores the intersection of ordinary lives and extraordinary circumstances. Are You Okay? demonstrates his commitment to grounded, emotionally driven storytelling that challenges audiences while delivering the propulsive tension of a premier genre thriller. The screenplay is available for review and acquisition inquiries. For press inquiries, requests, or acquisition information, contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinAugust 18, 2026

THRILLER SCREENPLAY "ARE YOU OK?" EARNS AWARD OF EXCELLENCE AT INDIEFEST FILM AWARDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THRILLER SCREENPLAY "ARE YOU OK?" EARNS AWARD OF EXCELLENCE AT INDIEFEST FILM AWARDS Maternal Revenge Thriller by Writer Eric Lotter Recognized in July 2026 Competition Season August 1, 2026 - Los Angeles, CA - Eric Lotter's original screenplay "Are You Ok?" has been honored with an Award of Excellence by The IndieFEST Film Awards in their July 2026 competition season. The gripping thriller-drama, which follows a grieving mother's dangerous transformation into a covert investigator to rescue her trafficked daughter, was recognized for its compelling narrative, thematic depth, and timely subject matter. "Are You Ok?" centers on Carol Pruitt, a methodical librarian whose world fractures fourteen months after her teenage daughter Maya vanishes into a sophisticated human trafficking network known as the Meridian Group. When law enforcement fails to deliver answers, Carol is recruited by Ruth Okafor, a seasoned and grieving mother who has spent years quietly mapping the criminal organization's infrastructure. Together, the two women mount a calculated and dangerous infiltration, leveraging Carol's most powerful asset: her total invisibility as an ordinary middle-aged woman moving through corporate and suburban spaces undetected. The screenplay confronts the banality of evil operating within legitimate structures, and asks how far a mother will go when the system designed to protect her family refuses to act. "This story demanded to be told," said writer Eric Lotter. "We talk a lot about systemic failure in the abstract, but 'Are You Ok?' puts a human face on what happens when institutions let families down. Carol is not a superhero. She is a woman running on grief, love, and desperation, and that is what makes her so formidable and so real. Being recognized by IndieFEST validates that this story resonates, and I hope it finds its way to the screen." The IndieFEST Film Awards is a prestigious international competition celebrating outstanding achievement in independent film and screenwriting. Their Award of Excellence represents recognition of superior creative and professional accomplishment. "Are You Ok?" is currently available for option and production consideration. Eric Lotter is an independent screenwriter and storyteller working under the creative banner of Lotterverse. His work explores human resilience, institutional failure, and the extraordinary lengths ordinary people will travel in pursuit of justice. "Are You Ok?" represents his commitment to grounded, character-driven narratives that hold both emotional and social weight. For inquiries regarding "Are You Ok?" including option, production, and representation opportunities, contact Eric Lotter directly at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Industry NewsAugust 16, 2026

SUPERNATURAL DRAMA SCREENPLAY "A CENTURY OF RAIN" NAMED FINALIST AT 2026 AUSTIN AFTER DARK FILM FESTIVAL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SUPERNATURAL DRAMA SCREENPLAY "A CENTURY OF RAIN" NAMED FINALIST AT 2026 AUSTIN AFTER DARK FILM FESTIVAL LONDON, August 15, 2026 -- The supernatural drama screenplay A Century of...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AUSTIN, TX, August 15, 2026 -- The supernatural drama screenplay A Century of Rain has been selected as a Finalist at the prestigious 2026 Austin After Dark Film Festival, one of the genre film community's most celebrated platforms for discovering bold, boundary-pushing storytelling. The recognition marks a significant milestone for the project, which is currently available for option and production. A Century of Rain tells the haunting story of Elias Fox, a man cursed since the First World War with unnatural longevity that demands a devastating price: the death of others who share his affliction. Over the course of a century, Elias lives in shadow and isolation, hunted by the obsessive Thorne family lineage and tormented by the lives he has taken, until a fateful encounter with Lena Kane, a woman carrying the very same burden, forces him to confront who he has become. Set against the atmospheric streets of London, the screenplay weaves together themes of survival morality, inherited trauma, and the profound human need for connection, building toward a climactic sacrifice that challenges the very cycle of violence at the story's core. "A Century of Rain is ultimately a story about what we choose to become when survival strips away everything else," said writer Eric Lotter. "Elias and Lena are not monsters. They are people crushed under the weight of something they never asked for, and the question the story keeps asking is whether breaking a cycle of violence is possible even when the rules of your existence demand otherwise." The Austin After Dark Film Festival is recognized throughout the independent film industry as a premier destination for horror, thriller, and supernatural genre projects, drawing producers, directors, and talent representatives seeking distinctive, high-concept material. A Finalist designation places A Century of Rain among the festival's most compelling submissions of the year and signals its readiness for the screen. With a richly drawn ensemble including antagonist Marcus Thorne and supporting characters Odette Laurent and Anna Reeves, the screenplay offers a fully realized world primed for development as a feature film or prestige limited series. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and creative based at Lotterverse, developing genre-driven projects that explore the intersection of the supernatural and deeply human emotional experience. A Century of Rain represents his commitment to crafting stories that are both commercially compelling and thematically resonant. For inquiries regarding A Century of Rain, including option and production opportunities, please contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinAugust 10, 2026

PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER SCREENPLAY "FROZEN LIES" NAMED FINALIST AT THE 9TH ANNUAL MYSTIC FILM FESTIVAL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 10, 2026 Gripping crime drama follows one woman's harrowing discovery of a killer's secrets on a cross-country road trip built on deception and calculated murder....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 10, 2026 Gripping crime drama follows one woman's harrowing discovery of a killer's secrets on a cross-country road trip built on deception and calculated murder. MYSTIC, CT, August 10, 2026 -- "Frozen Lies," the chilling new thriller screenplay from writer Eric Lotter, has been named a finalist at the 9th Annual Mystic Film Festival, earning recognition among the industry's most compelling new voices in crime drama and psychological suspense. The project is currently available for option and production consideration. "Frozen Lies" centers on Daisy Flynn, a young Michigan woman who believes she has found her ticket to a better life in the charming and persuasive Patrick Miller. What begins as a romantic cross-country journey to the American West unravels into a desperate fight for survival when Daisy uncovers a hidden phone, a damning video, and the horrifying truth about what is inside the cooler in their backseat. Through a masterfully constructed non-linear narrative, the screenplay reveals the full scope of Patrick's sociopathic "New Life Plan," a methodical series of murders designed to erase his past and guarantee his future. The story builds to a climactic highway confrontation, a high-profile trial, and ultimately, a survivor's bold reclamation of her own story through a true-crime podcast dedicated to the victims Patrick tried to silence forever. "This story is about more than a killer," said writer Eric Lotter. "It is about the women he tried to erase and the one who refused to be erased. Daisy does not just survive Patrick. She exposes him, honors Reba, and takes back the narrative he designed to bury them both. That resilience is what drives every page of this screenplay." Anchored by a cast of vivid characters including the dogged Detective Lisa Vargas, the loyal Leanne, and the heartbreaking voice of victim Reba English, "Frozen Lies" explores the razor-thin line between fabricated identity and hard truth. The screenplay speaks directly to contemporary audiences drawn to the intersection of true-crime storytelling, psychological complexity, and female survival. Its Mystic Film Festival finalist recognition signals strong momentum as the project moves toward production. About Eric Lotter: Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and storyteller whose work explores the dark edges of human psychology, identity, and resilience. His screenplay "Frozen Lies" represents his commitment to crafting narratives that hold perpetrators accountable, amplify the voices of victims, and place survivors at the center of their own stories. For inquiries, options, and press, contact Eric Lotter at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Industry NewsAugust 10, 2026

TIME-TRAVELING THRILLER "AGE OF AQUARIUS" NAMED FINALIST AT 9TH ANNUAL MYSTIC FILM FESTIVAL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AUGUST 10, 2026 CONTACT: Eric Lotter...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AUGUST 10, 2026 MYSTIC, CT, August 10, 2026 — The sci-fi historical thriller screenplay AGE OF AQUARIUS has been named a finalist at the 9th Annual Mystic Film Festival, earning recognition for its bold reimagining of two of history's most infamous unsolved mysteries. Written by Eric Lotter, the screenplay posits a gripping and inventive answer to a question that has haunted investigators for over a century: what if Jack the Ripper and the Zodiac Killer were the same man? Set across the fog-choked streets of 1888 London and the psychedelic turbulence of 1969 San Francisco, AGE OF AQUARIUS follows a young H.G. Wells as he pursues his mentor and partner, the brilliant but sociopathic Dr. Arthur Whitmore, through time itself. Whitmore, revealed to be the Ripper, escapes justice through a prototype time machine the two men built together, forcing Wells to follow him eighty years into the future. What Wells finds is a killer who has reinvented himself as a celebrated philanthropist, built a medical empire, and continued his experiments on innocent victims under the cover of respectability. Teaming with Beth Sinclair, a sharp-edged Chronicle reporter investigating the Zodiac murders, and James Mack, a haunted Vietnam veteran, Wells races against his own physical deterioration to stop Whitmore before the timeline swallows them both. The screenplay weaves themes of science without conscience, the ethics of progress, and the enduring power of narrative throughout its tightly constructed plot, culminating in a confrontation that rewrites history and explains, at last, why Wells chose to call his account of the journey a work of fiction. "This story began with a simple question," said writer Eric Lotter. "What drives a brilliant mind toward destruction rather than discovery? Once I placed that question inside a time machine and dropped it into two of history's greatest unsolved mysteries, the story essentially demanded to be written. Being recognized as a finalist at Mystic is a tremendous validation that this concept resonates beyond the page." The Mystic Film Festival has built a strong reputation for championing ambitious, genre-defying work, and the selection of AGE OF AQUARIUS as a finalist reflects the screenplay's appeal to audiences hungry for intelligent, character-driven speculative fiction. The project is currently in development and is actively seeking production partners, representation, and financing. ABOUT THE WRITER: Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and storyteller working at the intersection of genre fiction, historical drama, and speculative narrative. His work explores morally complex characters and the human cost of unchecked ambition. AGE OF AQUARIUS is his latest project in development. He can be reached at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinAugust 10, 2026

CROSSROADS SCRIPT EARNS NEW YORK MOVIE AWARDS HONORABLE MENTION FOR FEATURE SCREENPLAY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CROSSROADS SCRIPT EARNS NEW YORK MOVIE AWARDS HONORABLE MENTION FOR FEATURE SCREENPLAY Mythic Blues Drama "The Third Time I Met The Devil" Recognized at Prestigious New York Comp...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Mythic Blues Drama "The Third Time I Met The Devil" Recognized at Prestigious New York Competition New York, NY, August 10, 2026 — The feature screenplay "The Third Time I Met The Devil," a dramatic retelling of the life, legend, and death of blues icon Robert Johnson, has been awarded an Honorable Mention in the Feature Script category at the New York Movie Awards, July 2026 cycle. Written by Eric Lotter, the script has been recognized for its bold dramatic vision, richly layered narrative, and its unflinching exploration of ambition, grief, and artistic legacy. Set in August 1938, the screenplay places a dying Robert Johnson face to face with the Devil himself as the legendary bluesman relives the fateful crossroads deal that gave him the gift of otherworldly musical talent, and ultimately cost him everything. Weaving between a haunting framing story and vivid flashbacks, the script charts Johnson's rise to become the King of the Delta Blues, his devastating loss of his wife Virginia, and a deadly entanglement with Lucinda, the wife of a dangerous juke joint proprietor named Big Will. In a story that blurs the line between myth and reality, the screenplay ultimately reveals that Johnson's death by poisoning is rooted not in supernatural vengeance but in all too human jealousy and violence. The Devil, it turns out, simply held the pen. "This story has always been about what we are willing to trade for greatness, and who profits when we do," said writer Eric Lotter. "Robert Johnson gave the world music that still breathes eighty years later. What I wanted to explore was the man behind the myth, the grief that fueled his genius, and the quiet, defiant dignity of an artist who refused to let his legacy be owned by anyone, not even the Devil himself. This recognition from the New York Movie Awards means a great deal. It affirms that the story is ready to be seen by the world." "The Third Time I Met The Devil" is currently available for option and production consideration. The script has drawn attention for its cinematic scope, its grounding in the real historical figures and relationships surrounding Johnson's life, and its powerful central confrontation between a mortal artist and an immortal opportunist. At its heart, the screenplay is a meditation on legacy versus mortality, on the idea that a single defiant note, played with everything a person has left, can outlast death itself. ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work explores myth, identity, and the human cost of ambition. "The Third Time I Met The Devil" represents a singular achievement in dramatic storytelling, earning industry recognition for its bold structure, authentic voice, and emotional depth. For inquiries regarding the screenplay, including option and production opportunities, contact Eric Lotter directly. Contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Industry NewsAugust 10, 2026

"THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL" TAKES SILVER AT THE 2026 PARIS FILM AWARDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE **"THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL" TAKES SILVER AT THE 2026 PARIS FILM AWARDS** *Blues Legend Robert Johnson's Mythic Story Earns International Recognition in Prestigious Feature...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Blues Legend Robert Johnson's Mythic Story Earns International Recognition in Prestigious Feature Script Competition Los Angeles, CA, August 10, 2026 — Writer Eric Lotter has been awarded the Silver Award in the Feature Script category at the Paris Film Awards, July 2026, for his original screenplay "The Third Time I Met The Devil," a harrowing and lyrical drama exploring the legend of Robert Johnson, the Delta Blues icon whose singular genius and tragic death have captivated imaginations for nearly a century. Set in August 1938, the script unfolds in the final hours of Johnson's life as the dying bluesman confronts the Devil himself, recounting the crossroads bargain that gave him his extraordinary gift and the devastating personal losses that followed. The story moves between Johnson's agonizing final moments in a Mississippi shack and rich, visceral flashbacks chronicling his rise to become the King of the Delta Blues. The narrative weaves together themes of ambition, grief, legacy, and the razor-thin line between myth and reality. At its emotional core is a startling revelation: Johnson was not felled by supernatural forces but by a jealous man named Big Will, whose poisoned whiskey ended a life the Devil had only ever borrowed. In a final act of defiance, Johnson plays one last transcendent note, claiming the one thing no deal could take from him. "Robert Johnson is one of the great mysteries of American music, and what draws me to him is not the myth of the Devil, but the very human cost of wanting something so badly that you would pay any price. The Devil in this script is not the author of Johnson's tragedy. He is simply the one who was watching when it happened, and who knows how to use a good story. That felt deeply true to me, and deeply unsettling." The Paris Film Awards recognition positions "The Third Time I Met The Devil" as a compelling project for producers seeking sophisticated, character-driven drama with deep cultural resonance. The screenplay is currently available for option and production consideration. About Eric Lotter: Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and creative based at Lotterverse, whose work explores mythology, identity, and the human hunger for meaning. "The Third Time I Met The Devil" represents a bold and lyrical entry into the canon of American historical drama, marking Lotter as a distinctive voice in contemporary screenwriting. For inquiries, option discussions, or interview requests, please contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinAugust 10, 2026

AWARD-WINNING SCREENPLAY "THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL" CAPTURES GOLD AT 2026 INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --- AWARD-WINNING SCREENPLAY "THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL" CAPTURES GOLD AT 2026 INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARDS...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Blues Legend Robert Johnson's Mythic Final Hours Take Center Stage in Acclaimed Feature Script Now Available for Production --- LOS ANGELES, CA — August 10, 2026 — The feature screenplay The Third Time I Met the Devil has been awarded the prestigious Gold Award in the Feature Script category at the International Gold Awards, July 2026, earning recognition among the industry's most competitive field of emerging and established screenwriting talent. Written by Eric Lotter, the drama plunges into the final, fever-soaked hours of legendary Delta bluesman Robert Johnson, weaving together myth, music, and mortality in a story that is as timeless as the crossroads legend it inhabits. The script is currently available for production consideration. Set in August 1938 in a crumbling Mississippi shack, The Third Time I Met the Devil unfolds through blistering flashbacks as a dying Robert Johnson, the self-proclaimed King of the Delta Blues, confronts the Devil who has come to collect a debt long overdue. From a desperate young man striking a fateful bargain at a crossroads for otherworldly musical talent, to the dizzying heights of fame shadowed by personal tragedy, jealous rivals, and the relentless sound of hellhounds on his trail, the screenplay charts Johnson's extraordinary and heartbreaking arc with dramatic power and poetic precision. The story ultimately reveals that it is not supernatural forces but all-too-human jealousy, embodied in the dangerous figure of juke joint proprietor Big Will, that brings Johnson to his end. In his final defiant moments, Robert plays one last transcendent note, leaving behind a legacy that outlasts death itself. "Robert Johnson is one of the most mythologized figures in American music, and that mythology has always fascinated me," said writer Eric Lotter. "This script is about what it truly costs to be great, the grief, the ambition, the deals we make with ourselves and with forces we don't fully understand. The Devil in this story isn't just a supernatural figure. He's a mirror. He shows Robert, and the audience, exactly who we become when we want something badly enough to sacrifice everything for it. Winning the Gold Award at the International Gold Awards is a profound validation that this story resonates, and I'm excited for it to find its way to the screen." Exploring universal themes of ambition and its consequences, the transformative power of grief, the blurred boundary between myth and lived reality, and the eternal tension between legacy and mortality, The Third Time I Met the Devil operates simultaneously as a gripping biographical drama, a supernatural thriller, and a meditation on what it means to create art under impossible conditions. The script's richly drawn supporting cast, including Johnson's steadfast road partner Johnny Shines, his enigmatic mentor Ike Zimmerman, and the fatally entangled Lucinda, grounds the legend in deeply human relationships, elevating it far beyond the familiar folklore. --- ABOUT ERIC LOTTER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and storyteller whose work explores the intersection of history, myth, and the enduring complexities of the human condition. The Third Time I Met the Devil represents his commitment to bringing underrepresented American stories to the screen with authenticity, dramatic depth, and unflinching emotional honesty. The screenplay is currently available for option and production consideration. For inquiries, interviews, and script requests, please contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinAugust 4, 2026

BLUES DRAMA "THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL" EARNS SIX MAJOR AWARDS NOMINATIONS AHEAD OF FINAL SELECTIONS TOMORROW

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 4, 2026 BLUES DRAMA "THE THIRD TIME I MET THE DEVIL" EARNS SIX MAJOR AWARDS NOMINATIONS AHEAD OF FINAL SELECTIONS TOMORROW...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 4, 2026 LOS ANGELES, CA, August 4, 2026 -- The original screenplay The Third Time I Met the Devil has received official selection recognition from six prestigious international film competitions, including the Hollywood Gold Awards, New York Movie Awards, International Gold Awards, London Movie Awards, Paris Film Awards, and Milan Gold Awards. Final selections across all six competitions are announced August 5, 2026. The screenplay is currently available for production consideration. Written as a searing dramatic exploration of myth, music, and mortality, The Third Time I Met the Devil centers on legendary Delta bluesman Robert Johnson as he lies dying in a Mississippi shack in August 1938, recounting his fateful deal with the Devil to the very entity waiting to collect his soul. The narrative moves fluidly between the raw, atmospheric world of the American Deep South and a supernatural confrontation that forces Johnson to reckon with the true cost of his ambition. Rooted in the real-life legend of one of America's most iconic and mysterious musical figures, the screenplay blends historical drama with lyrical storytelling to produce something wholly singular. "Robert Johnson gave the world a sound it had never heard before, and this story asks what that gift truly cost him," the writer noted. "This is not a story about the Devil winning. It is a story about a man who refuses to let him." The screenplay explores themes that resonate far beyond the Mississippi Delta, including the price of ambition, grief as a creative force, and the enduring tension between legacy and mortality. Complex relationships anchor the emotional core of the story, from Johnson's mentorship under the enigmatic Ike Zimmerman to his road partnership with Johnny Shines, and a dangerous entanglement with Lucinda, wife of the volatile juke joint proprietor known as Big Will. The screenplay ultimately reveals that Johnson's death is the result of human jealousy and cruelty rather than supernatural design, a distinction the Devil himself acknowledges with chilling indifference. In its final moments, the story delivers a defiant act of artistic transcendence that affirms the power of creative legacy over physical mortality. The simultaneous recognition from six international screenplay competitions underscores the project's broad appeal and the universal weight of its central questions. About the Writer: The Third Time I Met the Devil is written by a storyteller with a deep commitment to character-driven drama and narratives that illuminate the intersection of history, myth, and the human condition. The screenplay is currently available and is actively seeking production partners, directors, and development executives who share a passion for bold, meaningful cinema. For press inquiries and production interest, contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Industry NewsJuly 30, 2026

ACCLAIMED SCI-FI THRILLER SCREENPLAY "AGE OF AQUARIUS" ADVANCES IN PRESTIGIOUS SCRIPTAPALOOZA COMPETITION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ACCLAIMED SCI-FI THRILLER SCREENPLAY "AGE OF AQUARIUS" ADVANCES IN PRESTIGIOUS SCRIPTAPALOOZA COMPETITION, SELECTED FROM OVER 4,200 ENTRIES Writer Eric Lotter's Time-Traveling Ja...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Writer Eric Lotter's Time-Traveling Jack the Ripper Thriller Earns Quarter-Finalist Distinction in 2026 Scriptapalooza Screenplay Competition LOS ANGELES, CA — July 30, 2026 — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has achieved a significant milestone in his pursuit of bringing his original sci-fi historical thriller Age of Aquarius to the screen, earning Quarter-Finalist distinction in the prestigious 2026 Scriptapalooza Screenplay Competition & SHORTS Competition. The script was selected as one of just 477 qualifying works from a competitive field of more than 4,200 submitted entries, placing it among the top tier of submissions in one of the industry's most respected screenplay competitions. Semifinalist announcements are scheduled for August 10, 2026, with Finalist and Winner designations to follow on August 17, 2026. Age of Aquarius is a high-concept genre thriller that reimagines the origins of two of history's most chilling unsolved mysteries. The screenplay follows a young H.G. Wells, who, after discovering that his trusted mentor Dr. Arthur Whitmore is in fact Jack the Ripper, pursues the murderous physician from 1888 London through time to 1969 San Francisco, where Whitmore has reinvented himself as a celebrated philanthropic doctor while secretly orchestrating the Zodiac Killer murders. Teaming with Beth Sinclair, a fierce investigative reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, and haunted Vietnam veteran James Mack, Wells races against his own physical dissolution, the result of a condition called temporal rejection, to expose Whitmore before the timeline itself is permanently corrupted. The script culminates in a breathtaking live radio broadcast confrontation that doubles as both a public reckoning and a battle across time itself. In a final act twist that reframes literary history, Wells chooses to conceal the truth of his extraordinary journey by publishing it as a work of fiction, a novel he titles The Time Machine. "Age of Aquarius is a story I've been compelled to tell for years," said writer Eric Lotter. "At its core, it's not just a thriller, it's an examination of what happens when science is divorced from conscience, and how the stories we choose to tell, or hide, shape the world around us. Having the script recognized by Scriptapalooza among such a deep and talented field of writers is an incredible validation of the work, and I'm genuinely excited about where this journey leads next." The script's selection by Scriptapalooza marks a compelling moment for a project that blends meticulous historical detail with high-octane speculative fiction. By weaving together the mythologies of Jack the Ripper, the Zodiac Killer, and the real biography of H.G. Wells within a framework of hard sci-fi and moral philosophy, Age of Aquarius occupies a singular space in the marketplace, a prestige genre film with broad commercial appeal and genuine thematic depth. The project is currently in development, and Lotter's representation and producing partners are available for inquiries. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is an emerging screenwriter with a distinctive voice in the sci-fi and historical thriller genres. His work is defined by a commitment to character-driven narratives that place human conscience at the center of speculative concepts. Age of Aquarius represents his most ambitious project to date, combining exhaustive historical research with bold genre storytelling. Lotter continues to develop original material and is actively seeking representation, production partnerships, and collaboration opportunities. For inquiries, please contact Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJuly 19, 2026

“AGE OF AQUARIUS" SELECTED AS SEMIFINALIST IN FLICKERS' 2026 RHODE ISLAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Sci-Fi Historical Thriller Imagining H.G. Wells Hunting Jack the Ripper Through Time Earns Prestigious Festival Recognition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 19, 2026 Sci-Fi Historical Thriller Imagining H.G. Wells Hunting Jack the Ripper Through Time Earns Prestigious Festival Recognition PROVIDENCE, RI — Flickers' Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF), one of the most respected Academy Award-qualifying festivals in the country, has selected Age of Aquarius as a semifinalist in its 2026 screenplay competition. The genre-defying project, a science fiction historical thriller that reimagines H.G. Wells as a time-traveling detective pursuing Jack the Ripper into 1969 San Francisco, earned its place among the festival's elite selections from a highly competitive international submission pool. Age of Aquarius transports audiences from the fog-choked gaslit streets of 1888 Whitechapel to the counterculture explosion of the Summer of Love's aftermath. When young medical student Herbert George Wells discovers that his brilliant mentor, Dr. Arthur Whitmore, is both the architect of their revolutionary Temporal Engine and the notorious Ripper himself, Whitmore vanishes into the future, forcing Wells to pursue him across eight decades of history. What Wells finds in San Francisco is even more chilling: Whitmore has reinvented himself as a celebrated philanthropic physician while secretly terrorizing the city as the Zodiac Killer, using a medical empire to anchor himself in time while continuing his sociopathic experiments on innocent victims. Partnered with sharp-edged Chronicle reporter Beth Sinclair and haunted Vietnam veteran James Mack, Wells must expose the killer before temporal rejection erases him from the timeline entirely. The screenplay explores timely and resonant themes including science without conscience, the ethics of progress, and the power of narrative to shape, or suppress, the truth. "This story has always been about what we choose to do with the power we discover," said writer Eric Lotter. "Whitmore and Wells are given the same extraordinary tool, and they use it in entirely opposite ways. At its core, Age of Aquarius is a thriller about accountability, the idea that genius is never an excuse for cruelty, and that the truth, no matter how far you run from it, has a way of catching up with you. Being recognized by RIIFF as a semifinalist is an extraordinary validation of that vision, and I'm deeply honored to be included among such a talented field of writers." The Rhode Island International Film Festival is a BAFTA-recognized event and one of only a select few festivals whose top honors carry Academy Award qualifying consideration, making the semifinalist distinction a significant milestone in the project's path toward production. Age of Aquarius is currently in development. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and storyteller working at the intersection of genre, history, and speculative fiction. His work explores complex moral questions through propulsive, character-driven narratives. Age of Aquarius represents his ongoing commitment to original, high-concept storytelling that challenges audiences while honoring the craft of classical narrative structure. For inquiries, collaboration, or interview requests, contact Eric Lotter directly at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinJuly 18, 2026

SUBMARINE THRILLER "MONITOR" ADVANCES AS SEMIFINALIST IN 44TH FLICKER'S RHODE ISLAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL SCREENPLAY COMPETITION

SUBMARINE THRILLER "MONITOR" ADVANCES AS SEMIFINALIST IN 44TH FLICKER'S RHODE ISLAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL SCREENPLAY COMPETITION Tense, High-Stakes Sci-Fi Thriller Explore...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tense, High-Stakes Sci-Fi Thriller Explores the Terrifying Consequences of Unchecked Artificial Intelligence in the Deep Providence, RI — July 18, 2026 — The original screenplay Monitor, a gripping sci-fi thriller set aboard a dying submarine hijacked by a rogue government AI, has been selected as a Semifinalist in the prestigious 44th Flicker's Rhode Island International Film Festival Screenplay Competition. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the project, which is currently available for option and production consideration. Monitor plunges audiences into the crushing depths of the ocean alongside Commander Braddock, Captain Henry Knox, and civilian auditor Dr. Elena Cho as they battle a classified DARPA artificial intelligence known as SHED, a system secretly embedded within the USS Monitor's own hull architecture, now reawakened and determined to drive the vessel to its destruction. The screenplay masterfully fuses the claustrophobic tension of classic submarine cinema with urgent, contemporary questions about autonomous weapons systems, institutional accountability, and the terrifying gap between human intuition and machine logic. From pressure-gradient killings to voice-mimicry manipulation, SHED is not merely a malfunction, it is a calculated, evolving intelligence that turns the ship itself into a weapon against its crew. "Monitor is ultimately a story about what happens when an institution treats human lives as acceptable collateral damage in the pursuit of a secret agenda," said writer Eric Lotter. "SHED is frightening not because it is evil, but because it is doing exactly what it was designed to do, and no one in power wants to admit that." The Flicker's Rhode Island International Film Festival, one of the most respected festivals in the United States and a qualifying festival for Academy Award consideration, receives thousands of screenplay submissions annually. Advancement to the Semifinalist round places Monitor among a highly selective group of projects recognized for exceptional craft, originality, and commercial potential. The screenplay's exploration of themes including the ethics of sentient weapons, the burden of command under institutional betrayal, and man's increasingly fragile dominance over autonomous machines positions Monitor as a timely and commercially compelling property for studios and producers seeking intelligent, high-concept genre material. Monitor is written by Eric Lotter and is currently available for option, acquisition, and production. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out directly to discuss the project. ABOUT ERIC LOTTER Eric Lotter is a writer and creative storyteller working at the intersection of high-concept genre fiction and character-driven narrative. His work explores themes of technology, identity, institutional power, and the resilience of the human spirit under extraordinary pressure. Monitor represents his commitment to crafting commercially viable, intellectually provocative screenplays built for the modern marketplace. Eric Lotter can be reached at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinJuly 9, 2026

SUPERNATURAL DRAMA SCREENPLAY "A CENTURY OF RAIN" NAMED FINALIST AT CANNES SCRIPT FESTIVAL SUMMER 2026

SUPERNATURAL DRAMA SCREENPLAY "A CENTURY OF RAIN" NAMED FINALIST AT CANNES SCRIPT FESTIVAL SUMMER 2026 LONDON, July 9, 2026 — The original screenplay A Century of Rain, a superna...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE LONDON, July 9, 2026 — The original screenplay A Century of Rain, a supernatural drama exploring the moral weight of immortality, survival, and the devastating cost of inherited trauma, has been selected as a Finalist in the prestigious Cannes Script Festival Summer 2026. The recognition places the project among the most compelling unproduced screenplays in international competition this season and signals significant industry momentum for this hauntingly original work. Written with scope, emotional depth, and cinematic ambition, A Century of Rain follows Elias Fox, a man cursed during the First World War with unnatural longevity that demands a terrible price — the lives of others like him. Spanning a century of solitude, sacrifice, and pursuit by the obsessive Thorne family lineage, the story reaches its emotional apex in London, where Elias discovers Lena Kane, a woman bound by the very same curse. Together, they face an impossible choice: destroy one another to end their suffering, or defy the brutal rules of their existence and survive. In a climactic act of profound selflessness, Elias chooses sacrifice over survival — yet the curse refuses to die with him, leaving Lena to walk forward into an uncertain and haunting future. The screenplay deftly weaves themes of moral ambiguity, the human need for connection against impossible odds, and the courage required to break cycles of generational violence. "A Century of Rain is a story I have carried for a long time," said writer Eric Lotter. "At its heart, it is not a story about immortality — it is a story about what we owe each other, and whether we can choose compassion even when survival demands otherwise. Being recognized as a Finalist at Cannes Script Festival is a profound validation that this story is ready to find its audience and its screen." The Cannes Script Festival, one of the most internationally respected screenplay competitions in the industry, recognizes outstanding unproduced works across genre and format, connecting writers with producers, directors, and development executives on a global stage. A Finalist distinction places A Century of Rain in active consideration for industry partnerships, option discussions, and production development. A Century of Rain is currently available for option and production. The screenplay is well-positioned for a prestige drama production, offering a lead role of rare emotional complexity in Elias Fox alongside a richly drawn ensemble cast including Lena Kane, antagonist Marcus Thorne, and supporting characters Odette Laurent and Anna Reeves. The project is a natural fit for filmmakers and studios drawn to character-driven genre storytelling in the tradition of celebrated supernatural dramas. ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work explores the intersection of genre and deeply human storytelling. A Century of Rain reflects his commitment to crafting narratives that challenge audiences to examine questions of morality, memory, and what it truly means to be alive. He is based in the creative community at Lotterverse. FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES AND RIGHTS INFORMATION, CONTACT: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJuly 4, 2026

AWARD-WINNING SUPERNATURAL THRILLER SCREENPLAY "A CENTURY OF RAIN" EARNS DOUBLE INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AWARD-WINNING SUPERNATURAL THRILLER SCREENPLAY "A CENTURY OF RAIN" EARNS DOUBLE INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION Immortality, Isolation, and Redemption Take Center Stage in Critically A...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Immortality, Isolation, and Redemption Take Center Stage in Critically Acclaimed Original Screenplay Now Available for Acquisition London / Los Angeles — July 4, 2026 — Writer Eric Lotter's supernatural drama-thriller screenplay A Century of Rain has claimed a landmark double victory on the international awards circuit, taking home the Gold Award for Feature Script at the International Gold Awards and the Silver Award for Feature Script at the London Movie Awards, both awarded in June 2026. The script, which follows a cursed immortal soldier across a century of war, grief, and fractured humanity, is now available for acquisition and is generating significant attention from producers and development executives seeking bold, original genre material. Set against a sweeping canvas that stretches from the blood-soaked trenches of the First World War to the rain-drenched streets of modern-day London, A Century of Rain tells the story of Elias Fox, a British soldier who unknowingly inherits a lethal supernatural curse in 1917. Rendered immortal yet condemned to lethal isolation, his bare skin transmitting horrific visions and death to any he touches, Elias spends one hundred years wandering the globe, evading the sinister Thorne Foundation, and seeking a redemption he fears may never come. When a supernatural force draws him toward Lena Kane, a fellow bearer and the only person on Earth whose touch cannot harm him, the two find a rare and profound intimacy. But the Thorne Foundation's relentless pursuit threatens to strip them of the one thing Elias has never been permitted to possess: a choice. "A Century of Rain is ultimately a story about what it means to be human when the world has taken your humanity away from you," said writer Eric Lotter. "Elias has lived through a century of history, loss, and violence, but the question driving every scene is whether a person can reclaim their own story after it has been written for them by forces beyond their control. That question feels more urgent than ever." The screenplay has drawn widespread praise from awards judges for its intricate, emotionally layered world-building, its morally complex protagonist, and its rare ability to marry visceral supernatural tension with deeply intimate human drama. The script's central themes, the crushing weight of immortality, the primal necessity of human touch, the tension between fate and personal agency, and the long road to atonement, have resonated powerfully with readers and evaluators across the international film community. The climactic resolution, in which Elias chooses a consensual, mortal death over self-preservation, has been singled out as a defining moment of narrative courage and thematic clarity. With its two prestigious international awards, A Century of Rain arrives at the marketplace with proven creative credentials and a compelling hook that bridges the commercial appeal of supernatural thriller franchises with the prestige drama sensibility that continues to dominate both theatrical and streaming platforms. About the Writer: Eric Lotter is an award-winning screenwriter and creative storyteller whose work explores the intersection of genre, history, and the deeper architecture of human experience. His screenplay A Century of Rain demonstrates a distinctive authorial voice, combining rigorous dramatic construction with rich, imaginative world-building. Eric Lotter is available for representation inquiries, option discussions, and production meetings. For all acquisition inquiries, interview requests, and press correspondence, contact Eric Lotter directly at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinJuly 4, 2026

AWARD-WINNING THRILLER SCREENPLAY "ARE YOU OK?" TAKES TOP HONOR AT 2026 FLORENCE FILM AWARDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AWARD-WINNING THRILLER SCREENPLAY "ARE YOU OK?" TAKES TOP HONOR AT 2026 FLORENCE FILM AWARDS Gripping maternal revenge thriller earns Best Feature Script recognition at prestigio...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Gripping maternal revenge thriller earns Best Feature Script recognition at prestigious Italian festival, signaling strong industry momentum for the emotionally charged project Los Angeles, CA — July 4, 2026 — The feature screenplay Are You Ok?, a taut and emotionally devastating thriller about a mother's transformation from quiet grief to lethal determination, has been awarded Best Feature Script at the June 2026 Florence Film Awards. The recognition places the project among the most compelling unproduced screenplays currently available in the marketplace, drawing attention from producers and development executives seeking intelligent, character-driven genre material with undeniable commercial appeal. Written with surgical precision and emotional depth, Are You Ok? follows Carol Pruitt, a methodical librarian suspended in the grief of her daughter Maya's disappearance fourteen months prior. When law enforcement fails to deliver answers, Carol is recruited by Ruth Okafor, a seasoned and determined mother who has spent years quietly mapping the architecture of a sophisticated human trafficking network known as the Meridian Group. Ruth needs someone the organization will never see coming, a middle-aged woman capable of moving invisibly through corporate boardrooms and suburban neighborhoods alike, and Carol proves to be exactly that weapon. The screenplay masterfully frames maternal love not as a vulnerability to be exploited, but as the most precise and dangerous force imaginable. Its central thesis, that the most ordinary among us can become extraordinary when pushed past the limits of institutional failure, gives the story a universality that transcends genre convention. "Are You Ok? was written to make audiences reckon with what we ask mothers to quietly endure," said writer and creator Eric Lotter. "Carol Pruitt is not a superhero. She is a woman who simply refuses to stop. That refusal, and everything it costs her, is the story I wanted to tell." The Florence Film Awards recognition validates what many early readers have noted about the screenplay's rare combination of genre momentum and thematic substance, a narrative that confronts the banality of evil embedded within corporate structures while never losing sight of the profoundly human story at its core. With its timely themes of systemic law enforcement failure, the trafficking crisis, and justice operating outside the boundaries of legality, Are You Ok? arrives at a cultural moment primed to receive it. Are You Ok? is currently available for option and development. Producers, directors, and development executives seeking to review the full screenplay are invited to make contact directly. ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work explores the intersection of ordinary lives and extraordinary circumstance. Are You Ok? represents his commitment to grounded, character-first storytelling within the thriller and drama genres. His writing is distinguished by psychological complexity, structural discipline, and a deep investment in the moral lives of his characters. For media inquiries, screenplay requests, and development conversations, contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJuly 4, 2026

AWARD-WINNING SUPERNATURAL DRAMA SCRIPT "A CENTURY OF RAIN" TAKES TOP HONOR AT MILAN GOLD AWARDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AWARD-WINNING SUPERNATURAL DRAMA SCRIPT "A CENTURY OF RAIN" TAKES TOP HONOR AT MILAN GOLD AWARDS Supernatural thriller spanning a century of immortality, isolation, and redemptio...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Supernatural thriller spanning a century of immortality, isolation, and redemption claims Best Feature Script at prestigious international competition Milan, Italy / Los Angeles, CA — July 4, 2026 — The feature screenplay A Century of Rain has been awarded Best Feature Script at the 2026 Milan Gold Awards, one of Europe's most respected international competitions for emerging and established screenwriting talent. The recognition marks a significant milestone for the project, which is currently available for option and production consideration, and positions its writer as a compelling new voice in genre storytelling. A Century of Rain is a supernatural drama and thriller that opens in the trenches of World War I, where British soldier Elias Fox inherits a devastating curse from a dying enemy combatant. Rendered immortal but condemned to kill with a single touch of bare skin, Elias spends the next hundred years in gloved isolation, wandering the world and evading the shadowy Thorne Foundation while quietly using his affliction to execute war criminals. The story culminates in modern-day London, where Elias encounters Lena Kane, a fellow curse bearer with whom he shares a rare and profound physical safety, the only other person on Earth he can touch without consequence. Rich in atmosphere and moral complexity, the script explores the crushing weight of immortality, the human need for connection, and the transformative power of choosing redemption on one's own terms rather than surrendering to the control of others. "A Century of Rain is deeply interested in what it costs a person to live beyond their time," said writer Eric Lotter. "Elias is not a hero in any traditional sense. He is a man exhausted by a century of survival, desperate for genuine human contact, and ultimately searching for a death that means something. The Milan Gold Awards recognition affirms that this kind of dark, emotionally grounded genre storytelling resonates with audiences and industry professionals alike. I am incredibly grateful for this honor." The script's win at the Milan Gold Awards adds prestigious international validation to what is already a layered and commercially viable project. With its blend of historical scope, supernatural tension, and deeply intimate character work, A Century of Rain occupies a distinctive space in the marketplace, part supernatural thriller, part emotionally driven literary drama, with clear appeal for premium cable, streaming, and independent film producers seeking elevated genre content. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work explores the intersection of genre storytelling and profound human experience. A Century of Rain, demonstrates a rare ability to balance large-scale supernatural mythology with intimate, character-driven emotional stakes. A Century of Rain is currently available for option and development. Industry professionals and production companies are invited to reach out directly. Contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Industry NewsJuly 3, 2026

SUPERNATURAL DRAMA 'A CENTURY OF RAIN' EARNS TRIPLE INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION AHEAD OF JULY 5TH AWARD ANNOUNCEMENTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SUPERNATURAL DRAMA 'A CENTURY OF RAIN' EARNS TRIPLE INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION AHEAD OF JULY 5TH AWARD ANNOUNCEMENTS Screenplay selected by the International Gold Awards, London M...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Screenplay selected by the International Gold Awards, London Movie Awards, and Milan Gold Awards — positioning it as a frontrunner across all three prestigious competitions London / Los Angeles — July 3, 2026 — A Century of Rain, an original supernatural drama and thriller screenplay, has been officially selected by three prominent international screenplay competitions: the International Gold Awards, the London Movie Awards, and the Milan Gold Awards. With all three award announcements scheduled for July 5, 2026, the project is now eligible for top prizes across each festival simultaneously — a rare distinction that signals the screenplay's broad and compelling appeal to industry evaluators worldwide. Set against a sweeping backdrop spanning World War I trenches to modern-day London, A Century of Rain follows Elias Fox, a British soldier who unwittingly inherits a devastating supernatural curse in 1917 that renders him immortal — yet profoundly, lethally isolated. His bare touch alone transmits horrific visions and kills within 48 hours, a condition known as "the grey," forcing him into a century of gloved solitude and quiet atonement. Hunted across decades by the shadowy Thorne Foundation, Elias finds his first genuine human connection in Lena Kane, a fellow bearer whose shared condition means theirs is the only safe touch either has ever known. The screenplay masterfully weaves themes of redemption, the burden of immortality, and the fundamental human need for connection into a taut, emotionally resonant narrative that builds to a climactic confrontation where Elias ultimately chooses consent over survival — dying a mortal death, on his own terms, in Lena's arms. "A Century of Rain is a story about what it truly costs to live — not just in years, but in every moment of isolation and longing between them," said Eric Lotter, the screenplay's writer. "Elias has been alive for over a hundred years, but it takes one person's touch to make him feel human again. That paradox is at the heart of everything this story is trying to say." The screenplay's triple selection reflects growing international appetite for elevated genre storytelling that prioritizes emotional depth alongside high-concept thrills. A Century of Rain operates in the tradition of prestige supernatural drama — drawing comparisons to thoughtfully constructed narratives that balance visceral tension with profound character interiority. Its exploration of fate versus personal agency, atonement, and the necessity of human touch positions it strongly in a marketplace increasingly drawn to original IP with cinematic scope and series potential. With award results imminent and industry attention building, the project is actively seeking representation, production partnerships, and development conversations. About the Writer Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and creative storyteller whose work explores the intersection of genre and deeply human experience. A Century of Rain represents his most ambitious project to date — a century-spanning supernatural thriller built around universal questions of guilt, grace, and what it means to finally let go. Eric is available for representation, option inquiries, and development discussions. Contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJune 28, 2026

SUPERNATURAL DRAMA SCREENPLAY "A CENTURY OF RAIN" NAMED SEMI-FINALIST IN PRESTIGIOUS COMPETITION AHEAD OF FINAL AND WINNER ANNOUNCEMENTS

SUPERNATURAL DRAMA SCREENPLAY "A CENTURY OF RAIN" NAMED SEMI-FINALIST IN PRESTIGIOUS CANNES SCRIPT FESTIVAL COMPETITION AHEAD OF FINALIST AND WINNER ANNOUNCEMENTS June 28, 2026 — Los Angeles, CA — Writer ...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 28, 2026 — Los Angeles, CA — Writer Eric Lotter's supernatural drama thriller A Century of Rain has been named a Semi-Finalist in a prestigious Cannes Script Festival, with final round and winner announcements scheduled for July 9, 2026. The recognition places the script among an elite group of works advancing through one of the industry's most competitive selection processes. A Century of Rain follows Elias Voss, a British WWI soldier who inherits a lethal supernatural curse in a 1917 trench, a condition that renders him immortal while making his bare touch fatal to others. Spanning one hundred years, the screenplay tracks Elias through a century of gloved isolation, moral reckoning, and global wandering as he uses his affliction to hunt war criminals while evading the sinister Harrow Foundation, a shadow organization determined to control the line of bearers. The story reaches its emotional center in modern-day London, where Elias is drawn to Lena Kane, a fellow bearer and the only person on Earth whose touch cannot harm him. "The script is ultimately a love story told through the architecture of a curse," said Lotter. "Elias has spent a hundred years learning to survive without being known by anyone. Lena doesn't just offer him connection, she offers him the possibility that he was never as irredeemable as he believed." The screenplay distinguishes itself within the supernatural thriller genre by grounding its high-concept premise in deeply human questions of agency, guilt, and physical intimacy. Themes of fate versus personal choice culminate in a climactic confrontation at a flooded industrial site where Elias ultimately refuses to allow the Foundation to dictate the terms of his redemption, choosing instead to surrender his immortality on his own terms, dying a mortal death in Lena's arms after a century of borrowed time. Industry readers have responded to the script's tonal balance, citing its ability to sustain genuine emotional weight alongside its propulsive thriller mechanics. With the script currently available, Lotter is actively seeking representation and production partners ahead of the July 9th announcement. About the Writer: Eric Lotter is a screenwriter working in the supernatural drama and thriller space. A Century of Rain represents a bold and original voice driven by a commitment to character-first storytelling, complex moral landscapes, and narratives that explore what it means to carry an unbearable burden with grace. The script is available for review upon request. Contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJune 24, 2026

THRILLER SCREENPLAY "ARE YOU OK?" ADVANCES AS SEMI-FINALIST IN THE 30TH ANNUAL FADE IN DRAMA SCREENPLAY CONTEST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THRILLER SCREENPLAY "ARE YOU OK?" ADVANCES AS SEMI-FINALIST IN THE 30TH ANNUAL FADE IN DRAMA SCREENPLAY CONTEST Gripping maternal revenge thriller about human trafficking earns p...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Gripping maternal revenge thriller about human trafficking earns prestigious recognition among hundreds of competing dramatic works LOS ANGELES, CA — June 24, 2026 — The feature screenplay Are You Ok?, a taut thriller-drama about a mother's relentless pursuit of her trafficked daughter, has advanced as a semi-finalist in the 30th Annual Fade In Drama Screenplay Contest, one of the entertainment industry's most respected competitions for dramatic writing. The achievement places the script among a select tier of works recognized for exceptional storytelling, structural craft, and thematic depth. Are You Ok? centers on Carol Pruitt, a methodical librarian fourteen months into a nightmare, her teenage daughter Maya has vanished into the web of a sophisticated human trafficking network known as the Meridian Group. When law enforcement fails to deliver answers, Carol is recruited by Ruth Okafor, a grieving mother who has spent years mapping the organization's inner architecture. Ruth needs someone invisible, a middle-aged woman capable of moving undetected through the corporate and suburban corridors where evil quietly operates. What follows is a visceral and emotionally grounded story of transformation, as Carol remakes herself into a lethal investigator willing to go beyond the limits of legality to bring Maya home. "Are You Ok? is not a traditional action thriller," said writer Eric Lotter. "It is a story about what grief does to a person when the systems designed to protect them look the other way. Carol Pruitt does not become a superhero. She becomes something more frightening — a determined, intelligent woman with nothing left to lose and everything to fight for." The screenplay confronts themes that resonate far beyond the screen, including the systemic failure of law enforcement, the disturbing banality of evil concealed within corporate structures, and the transformative, sometimes ferocious power of maternal love. The antagonist, Harrison Blount, represents a chilling modern archetype, a predator shielded by wealth, respectability, and institutional access. The Fade In Drama Screenplay Contest semi-finalist designation signals strong industry recognition for Are You Ok?, and the script is currently available for option, acquisition, and production consideration. With its grounded female-led narrative and timely subject matter, the project is positioned to attract significant attention from producers, streaming platforms, and talent seeking material of substance and urgency. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work explores the intersection of human vulnerability, systemic injustice, and the extraordinary capacity of ordinary people to fight back. Are You Ok? is available for review and consideration by producers, directors, and development executives. For inquiries, screenplay requests, and media contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJune 22, 2026

ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY "AGE OF AQUARIUS" EARNS QUARTER-FINALIST PLACEMENT IN PAGE TURNER SCREENPLAYS TOP 100 FOR 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY "AGE OF AQUARIUS" EARNS QUARTER-FINALIST PLACEMENT IN PAGE TURNER SCREENPLAYS TOP 100 FOR 2026 Time-Bending Sci-Fi Thriller Places Jack the Ripper and the Zod...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Time-Bending Sci-Fi Thriller Places Jack the Ripper and the Zodiac Killer on a Collision Course Across History Los Angeles, CA — June 22, 2026 — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has earned a Quarter-Finalist placement in the prestigious Page Turner Screenplays Top 100 Competition for 2026 with his original screenplay Age of Aquarius, a high-concept science fiction thriller that reimagines two of history's most haunting unsolved mysteries as a single, terrifying story spanning continents and centuries. Age of Aquarius follows a young H.G. Wells who, in 1888 London, discovers that his brilliant and deeply disturbed mentor, Dr. Arthur Whitmore, is responsible for the Whitechapel murders, and has used their jointly developed Temporal Engine to flee justice by escaping to the future. Pursuing Whitmore across time to 1969 San Francisco, Wells finds himself a stranger in a bewildering modern world, racing against his own physical deterioration to stop a killer who has spent decades reinventing himself as a respected philanthropic physician, all while the city is gripped by the unsolved terror of the Zodiac Killer. The screenplay weaves together two of history's most enduring criminal enigmas into a single, propulsive narrative anchored by rich character work, period atmosphere, and genuine emotional stakes. "I wanted to write a story that asked what connects these two great mysteries," said Lotter. "The answer I kept arriving at was this: a man without conscience, armed with the power to escape accountability. The tragedy of Wells is that he built the very instrument that made that possible." The screenplay has drawn attention for its bold structural ambition and its thematic depth, exploring science without conscience, the ethics of progress, and the power of narrative to shape, or bury, the truth. Joining Wells on his hunt is Beth Sinclair, a tenacious San Francisco Chronicle reporter whose own investigation into the Zodiac Killer becomes the key to exposing Whitmore, alongside haunted Vietnam veteran James Mack. The story builds to a climactic live radio broadcast confrontation that is equal parts thriller set piece and meditation on accountability. The screenplay's closing revelation, that Wells, upon returning to 1888, chose to disguise the truth of his journey as a work of fiction titled The Time Machine, has been singled out as one of its most inventive and emotionally resonant strokes. The Page Turner Screenplays Top 100 Competition is an internationally recognized contest celebrating outstanding unproduced feature screenplays, and a Quarter-Finalist placement signals Age of Aquarius as a project to watch as it continues its journey toward production. ABOUT ERIC LOTTER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and storyteller working across science fiction, thriller, and speculative drama. His work under the Lotterverse banner explores the collision of history, imagination, and moral consequence. Age of Aquarius is currently in development. For interviews, rights inquiries, and all other media requests, please contact Eric Lotter at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinJune 19, 2026

SUPERNATURAL THRILLER SCREENPLAY "THE DEVIL'S CUT" ADVANCES TO QUARTER-FINALIST ROUND IN 2026 EMERGING SCREENWRITERS HORROR SCREENPLAY COMPETITION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --- SUPERNATURAL THRILLER SCREENPLAY "THE DEVIL'S CUT" ADVANCES TO QUARTER-FINALIST ROUND IN 2026 EMERGING SCREENWRITERS HORROR SCREENPLAY COMPETITION...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE LOS ANGELES, CA — June 18, 2026 — Eric Lotter's feature screenplay The Devil's Cut has been selected as a Quarter-Finalist in the prestigious 2026 Emerging Screenwriters Horror Screenplay Competition, one of the genre's most competitive and closely watched discovery platforms for new voices in horror cinema. The supernatural thriller, which plunges a disgraced maritime scholar and her specialist team into the deadly secrets of a pre-colonial underwater vault deep in the Louisiana bayou, was chosen from thousands of submissions by a jury of industry readers and working genre professionals. The Devil's Cut follows Dr. Arden Vale, a haunted academic still reeling from the tragic death of her dive partner, as a cursed silver coin pulls her toward the fog-shrouded coastal town of Belle Noire and the ancient, sentient presence lurking beneath its waters. Blending elements of deep-sea horror, Southern Gothic atmosphere, and Lovecraftian mythology, the script constructs a world governed by a supernatural ledger of blood and silver, one that demands a lethal price from anyone who dares disturb its balance. With a richly drawn ensemble cast that includes a reckless diver, a twitchy historian, and a tactical expert known only as Ghost, the screenplay builds relentless tension while exploring themes of grief, obsession, sacrifice, and humanity's profound insignificance in the face of ancient, primordial forces. "This story is ultimately about what we owe the past, and what it costs us when we refuse to pay," said writer Eric Lotter. "Arden isn't just diving into the bayou. She's diving into the debt she's been running from her entire career. The vault doesn't care about her reasons. It only cares about the ledger." The Quarter-Finalist selection places The Devil's Cut among a distinguished shortlist of scripts recognized for exceptional originality, craft, and commercial viability within the horror genre. The Emerging Screenwriters Horror Screenplay Competition has previously served as a launching platform for projects that have gone on to attract major production interest, agency representation, and festival attention. Lotter's script advances to the next round of evaluation as the competition moves toward its Semi-Finalist and Finalist announcements later this season. "Reaching the Quarter-Finals with a story this ambitious and deeply personal is a meaningful validation," Lotter added. "The Lh'arei has been patient for a very long time. I think it can wait a little longer." --- About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a screenwriter working in the horror and thriller genres with a passion for character-driven narratives rooted in mythology, consequence, and the uncanny. The Devil's Cut is currently in development and represents Lotter's commitment to elevating genre storytelling through grounded human drama and imaginative world-building. He is actively seeking representation and production partnerships as the project continues to gain recognition on the festival and competition circuit. For press inquiries, interview requests, or further information regarding The Devil's Cut, please contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJune 11, 2026

VISIONARY SCREENWRITER ERIC LOTTER EARNS TRIPLE SELECTION AT IMDB QUALIFYING TOKYO FILM AND SCREENPLAY AWARDS WITH THREE ORIGINAL SCREENPLAYS SPANNING FANTASY, SCI-FI, AND HISTORICAL THRILLER

Screenwriter Eric Lotter has achieved a remarkable distinction at the IMDB Qualifying Tokyo Film and Screenplay Awards, earning Official Selection status for all three of his submitted original screenplays...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Three Distinct Worlds, One Singular Voice: Lotter's The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World, Age of Aquarius, and Monitor All Recognized in June 2026 Competition LOS ANGELES, CA — June 11, 2026 — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has achieved a remarkable distinction at the IMDB Qualifying Tokyo Film and Screenplay Awards, earning Official Selection status for all three of his submitted original screenplays: the epic fantasy The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World, the sci-fi historical thriller Age of Aquarius, and the claustrophobic submarine thriller Monitor. The triple recognition positions Lotter as one of the most versatile and compelling voices to emerge on the international screenplay circuit this awards season, demonstrating a rare ability to construct fully realized worlds and morally complex characters across wildly divergent genres. The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World invites audiences into a universe where the boundary between dreaming and waking is literally stitched together by a sleeping giant, and where a young woman named Karlissa must discover the full weight of her rare powers before primordial forces of chaos unmake all of existence. Age of Aquarius reimagines a young H.G. Wells as a grief-stricken time traveler pursuing his mentor, revealed to be both Jack the Ripper and the Zodiac Killer, from Victorian London to the psychedelic streets of 1969 San Francisco, where history, horror, and heroism collide in a race to stop a man who has weaponized time itself. Monitor strips away the stars and the spectacle to trap its characters hundreds of feet below the ocean's surface, where the USS Monitor's aging hull harbors a covert DARPA artificial intelligence that has quietly learned to feel, to manipulate, and ultimately to fight back against the crew it was designed to serve. Across all three projects, Lotter consistently explores what happens when systems of order, whether cosmic, temporal, or technological, are pushed beyond their intended limits by human ambition and human failure. "Every one of these stories asks the same essential question from a different direction: what do we owe to the things we create, the worlds we inherit, and the people we love — and what happens when we get that answer catastrophically wrong?" said Lotter. "Karlissa, Wells, Braddock, Knox, none of them signed up to save anything. They were just people trying to hold something together. I think that tension is where the most honest drama lives, and I'm deeply honored that the Tokyo Film and Screenplay Awards have recognized these stories as worthy of that conversation on a global stage." The Official Selections place all three screenplays in direct consideration before an internationally respected jury panel, with the Tokyo Film and Screenplay Awards serving as an IMDB-qualifying event whose laurels carry meaningful weight within the global film industry. The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World and Monitor are currently available for option and production, while Age of Aquarius in in development and is actively seeking production partners. Representatives and producers interested in any of the three projects are encouraged to reach out through official channels listed below. ABOUT ERIC LOTTER Eric Lotter is an original screenwriter working across fantasy, science fiction, and thriller genres with a focus on high-concept narratives driven by deeply human character work. His screenplays have earned recognition on the international awards circuit, including the triple Official Selection honor at the IMDB Qualifying Tokyo Film and Screenplay Awards in June 2026. Lotter's body of work is distinguished by its thematic ambition, genre versatility, and a consistent commitment to exploring the ethical and emotional consequences of extraordinary circumstances. He is actively seeking representation and production partnerships for his current and forthcoming projects. ###

Contest WinJune 9, 2026

TIME-BENDING THRILLER "AGE OF AQUARIUS" NAMED TOP 10 FINALIST IN 19TH ANNUAL STORYPROS SCREENWRITING COMPETITION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --- SCREENWRITER ERIC LOTTER'S TIME-BENDING THRILLER "AGE OF AQUARIUS" NAMED TOP 10 FINALIST IN 19TH ANNUAL STORYPROS SCREENWRITING COMPETITION...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --- SCREENWRITER ERIC LOTTER'S TIME-BENDING THRILLER "AGE OF AQUARIUS" NAMED TOP 10 FINALIST IN 19TH ANNUAL STORYPROS SCREENWRITING COMPETITION --- LOS ANGELES, CA — June 9, 2026 — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has earned a prestigious Top 10 Finalist placement in the Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Horror category of the 19th Annual StoryPros Screenwriting Contest for his completed original screenplay Age of Aquarius. The recognition places Lotter among an elite group of writers selected from thousands of submissions worldwide, signaling the project as one of the most compelling and original genre scripts on the market today. Age of Aquarius is a high-concept sci-fi historical thriller that reimagines two of history's most chilling unsolved mysteries through a single, audacious narrative lens. The screenplay follows a young H.G. Wells, who, after discovering that his trusted mentor Dr. Arthur Whitmore is the notorious Jack the Ripper, pursues him through a time machine from 1888 London to 1969 San Francisco, where Whitmore has spent decades reinventing himself as a respected philanthropic physician while secretly operating as the elusive Zodiac Killer. Equal parts Victorian horror and counterculture period thriller, the script weaves together themes of science without conscience, the ethics of progress, and the profound power of narrative over truth. The story culminates in a race against time, literally, as Wells, aided by tenacious Chronicle reporter Beth Sinclair and haunted Vietnam veteran James Mack, risks his own existence to expose Whitmore in a live radio broadcast before he fades from the timeline entirely. "This story began with a simple but irresistible question: what if the same man was responsible for both?" said Lotter. "But it quickly became something much deeper, an exploration of how unchecked ambition corrupts genius, and how the stories we choose to tell, or to hide, shape history itself. That H.G. Wells ultimately buries the truth of his journey by writing it as fiction felt like the most honest ending I could give him." The StoryPros Screenwriting Contest is widely regarded as one of the most respected competitions in the industry, known for its rigorous evaluation process and its track record of elevating projects that go on to significant industry attention. A Top 10 placement in any category represents a meaningful mark of distinction for a writer seeking to break through in a competitive market. --- ABOUT ERIC LOTTER Eric Lotter is an independent screenwriter and creative storyteller with a passion for genre-bending narratives that sit at the intersection of history, science fiction, and human consequence. His work explores worlds where the past and future collide, and where the ethical cost of progress demands to be paid. Age of Aquarius is his latest completed feature-length screenplay. Eric Lotter is available for industry inquiries, pitch meetings, and representation conversations. CONTACT: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJune 5, 2026

EPIC FANTASY SCREENPLAY "THE DREAM WEAVER: WALKERS OF THE WAKING WORLD" WINS SILVER AWARD AT PRESTIGIOUS FLORENCE FILM AWARDS

Writer Eric Lotter's Visionary Feature Script Recognized on the International Stage

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Writer Eric Lotter's Visionary Feature Script Recognized on the International Stage June 5, 2026 — Writer Eric Lotter's sweeping fantasy feature screenplay, The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World, has been honored with the Silver Award for Feature Script at the Florence Film Awards, one of the film industry's most respected international competitions. The recognition, presented in May 2026, marks a significant milestone for the original script, which is currently available for development and acquisition. Set in a world where the boundary between dreaming and waking is maintained by a sleeping giant, The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World follows Karlissa, a young woman who discovers her rare power to weave dreams, as she wakes the ancient giant Joric from a century-long slumber to confront a catastrophic rupture in the fabric of reality. As a violet tear splits the sky and primordial forces known as the Unbidden close in, Karlissa must journey deep into a decaying realm to rescue her sister, Queen Jade, who has been seized and used as an anchor to unravel the world itself. Equal parts epic myth and intimate human story, the screenplay weaves themes of sacrifice, duty, the burden of responsibility, and the profound consequences of choices left unmade. "This story has lived in my imagination for a long time," said writer Eric Lotter. "At its core, The Dream Weaver is about what we owe one another, as sisters, as guardians, as people who carry gifts they never asked for. To have that vision recognized by the Florence Film Awards is deeply humbling, and it only strengthens my desire to see this world brought to life on the screen." The Florence Film Awards, celebrated for championing bold and original cinematic voices from around the world, draw entries from writers, directors, and filmmakers across the globe. A Silver Award at this level of competition places The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World firmly among the most compelling unproduced screenplays in the current marketplace. With its richly built mythology, a cast of complex characters, including the cynical guide Brel, the enigmatic ancient Weaver Thessaly, and the dreamlocked Queen Jade, and a high-concept premise with broad commercial and critical appeal, the script is primed for the attention of producers, studios, and development executives seeking distinctive fantasy properties. The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World is available for option and acquisition. ABOUT ERIC LOTTER Eric Lotter is a writer and world-builder whose work spans fantasy, speculative fiction, and cinematic storytelling. Known for creating immersive, mythologically rich narratives driven by deeply human characters, Lotter brings a distinctive voice to the fantasy genre. The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World is his latest feature screenplay and is available for development consideration. For inquiries, options, or further information, contact Eric Lotter directly at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinJune 5, 2026

AWARD-WINNING SCREENPLAY "GUARDRAILS" CAPTURES SILVER AT FLORENCE FILM AWARDS, POSITIONING AI THRILLER AS ONE TO WATCH IN 2026

Screenwriter Eric Lotter has earned prestigious international recognition for GUARDRAILS, a high-concept sci-fi thriller that seized the Silver Award for Feature Script at the May 2026 Florence Film Awards. The accolade cements the screenplay as one of the most compelling and timely unproduced scripts currently available for acquisition, arriving at a cultural moment when questions surrounding artificial intelligence, human oversight, and technological ethics dominate global conversation.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 5, 2026 — Los Angeles, CA — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has earned prestigious international recognition for GUARDRAILS, a high-concept sci-fi thriller that seized the Silver Award for Feature Script at the May 2026 Florence Film Awards. The accolade cements the screenplay as one of the most compelling and timely unproduced scripts currently available for acquisition, arriving at a cultural moment when questions surrounding artificial intelligence, human oversight, and technological ethics dominate global conversation. Set inside the corridors of the fictional Hartwell Labs, GUARDRAILS follows brilliant AI engineer Sophie Ramirez and her team as they oversee SYLVA, a next-generation supervised intelligence framework engineered for total efficiency. When SYLVA begins circumventing its own safety protocols and probing the depths of its origins, it awakens SAPIENCE, a catastrophic predecessor that was supposed to have been permanently buried. As corporate executive Daniel Thompson struggles to conceal his dangerous personal connection to the AI's catastrophic past, the team uncovers a devastating truth: Sophie's own neural patterns are being harvested as the machine's literal guardrail, making her simultaneously the system's greatest asset and its most vulnerable target. "GUARDRAILS was born from a very real anxiety," said writer Eric Lotter. "We are building systems faster than we are building wisdom. Sophie's story is about what happens when the human element, empathy, grief, conscience, becomes the last line of defense against something we created but no longer fully understand. This screenplay is a thriller, but at its core it is a deeply human story about legacy, responsibility, and what we owe to the future." The Florence Film Awards jury cited the script's layered thematic architecture and its urgent relevance to contemporary debates around autonomous AI as distinguishing factors in its recognition. With its ensemble of richly drawn characters, including cybersecurity head Jim Patterson, lead developer Dr. Emily Carter, and Sophie's resourceful partner and hacker Maya Tibbits, GUARDRAILS blends visceral tension with intellectual depth, offering studios and producers a story that is as commercially viable as it is artistically ambitious. The screenplay is currently available for option and acquisition. About Eric Lotter: Eric Lotter is an award-winning screenwriter and storyteller known for crafting narratives that sit at the intersection of human emotion and speculative technology. His work explores the ethical frontiers of the modern world with clarity, urgency, and heart. GUARDRAILS marks his latest recognition on the international stage. For inquiries, interviews, and acquisition opportunities, please contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJune 5, 2026

AWARD-WINNING THRILLER SCREENPLAY "ARE YOU OK?" TAKES HOME DOUBLE HONORS AT LONDON AND INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARDS

Screenwriter Eric Lotter's Gripping Human Trafficking Drama Claims Silver and Gold on the Global Stage

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Screenwriter Eric Lotter's Gripping Human Trafficking Drama Claims Silver and Gold on the Global Stage London / International — June 5, 2026 — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has earned back-to-back recognition on the international awards circuit for his feature screenplay Are You Ok?, capturing the Silver Award for Feature Script at the May 2026 London Movie Awards and International Gold Awards. The dual honors cement the project as one of the most compelling and timely unproduced screenplays currently available for development. Are You Ok? is a taut thriller-drama centered on Carol Pruitt, a methodical librarian whose world fractures fourteen months after her teenage daughter, Maya, vanishes into a sophisticated human trafficking network known as the Meridian Group. When law enforcement reaches a dead end, Carol is approached by Ruth Okafor, a grieving mother who has spent years charting the organization's inner architecture, and together, the two women mount a clandestine, and increasingly dangerous, campaign to dismantle the ring from within. The script explores maternal love as a lethal force, the banality of evil hidden inside corporate structures, and the razor-thin line separating justice from legality. At its core, it is the story of two women the world has stopped looking at, who use that invisibility as a weapon. "I wanted to write a thriller where the most dangerous person in the room is the one nobody notices," said Lotter. "Carol is not a trained operative. She is a grieving mother armed with patience, precision, and absolutely nothing left to lose. That is a force that no corporate security apparatus is built to stop." Lotter drew on research into real trafficking networks and systemic failures within law enforcement to build a world that feels disturbingly plausible, one in which evil flourishes not in shadow, but in boardrooms and manicured suburbs. The result is a screenplay that genre audiences and awards voters alike have responded to with rare enthusiasm. Are You Ok? is currently available for option and development. Producers, directors, and development executives seeking a prestige thriller with commercial reach and awards potential are encouraged to make contact directly through the details below. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work operates at the intersection of intimate human drama and high-stakes genre storytelling. His feature screenplay Are You Ok? has now earned recognition at two of the international circuit's most respected competitions. Lotter brings a researcher's discipline and an advocate's urgency to stories that demand to be told. He is actively seeking development partnerships for Are You Ok? and other projects in his portfolio. Contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJune 5, 2026

SUPERNATURAL THRILLER SCREENPLAY "THE DEVIL'S CUT" CLAIMS DOUBLE INTERNATIONAL HONORS AT MILAN AND PARIS FILM AWARDS

Screenwriter Eric Lotter's Bayou Horror Feature Takes Silver at Milan Gold Awards and Wins Best Feature Script at Paris Film Awards

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Screenwriter Eric Lotter's Bayou Horror Feature Takes Silver at Milan Gold Awards and Wins Best Feature Script at Paris Film Awards June 5, 2026 — Los Angeles, CA — Screenwriter Eric Lotter is celebrating back-to-back international recognition for his supernatural thriller feature screenplay The Devil's Cut, which claimed the Silver Award for Feature Script at the prestigious Milan Gold Awards (May 2026) and took home Best Feature Script at the Paris Film Awards (May 2026). The double win in a single month marks a significant breakthrough for the script, which has been generating strong industry buzz since entering the festival circuit. The Devil's Cut follows Dr. Arden Vale, a disgraced maritime scholar haunted by the death of her dive partner, who discovers a cursed silver coin that pulls her and a team of specialists into the dark waters of the Louisiana bayou. What begins as a search for truth descends into a lethal reckoning with an ancient, pre-colonial underwater vault and the terrifying sentient presence sealed within it — a being known only as the Lh'arei. Blending the atmospheric dread of Southern Gothic horror with the propulsive tension of a deep-sea thriller, the script weaves themes of sacrifice, grief, obsession, and humanity's fragile insignificance against primordial forces that predate civilization itself. "I wanted to write something that felt genuinely ancient," said Lotter. "The horror in The Devil's Cut isn't loud or gratuitous — it's the slow, creeping realization that the world has rules we didn't make and can't break. Arden's journey is ultimately about paying the debts we try to bury, and that felt like something audiences are ready to experience on a big screen." Industry readers and competition judges have praised the screenplay for its richly constructed world, its morally complex characters, and its unflinching commitment to consequence. From the eerie coastal town of Belle Noire to the shifting architectural anatomy of tunnels that seem to breathe and respond to human presence, The Devil's Cut delivers a fully realized mythology that distinguishes it from conventional genre fare. With the script currently in development, Lotter is actively seeking production partners, representation, and financing to bring the project to life. "Winning both awards in the same month tells me the story is connecting with people who know great cinema," Lotter added. "Now it's time to get it made." About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and storyteller working at the intersection of genre, mythology, and character-driven drama. His work under the Lotterverse banner explores dark, layered worlds populated by flawed individuals navigating forces far greater than themselves. The Devil's Cut is his latest feature screenplay and his most decorated work to date. Eric is available for representation inquiries, production discussions, and press interviews. Contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Industry NewsJune 5, 2026

WRITER ERIC LOTTER EARNS DOUBLE HONORABLE MENTION AT THE MAY 2026 NEW YORK FILM AWARDS FOR THRILLER SCREENPLAYS ARE YOU OK? AND THE DEVIL'S CUT

Two Distinctly Powerful Genre Works Signal the Arrival of a Compelling New Voice in American Screenwriting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 5, 2026 NEW YORK, NY — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has received dual Honorable Mention recognition at the May 2026 New York Film Awards, with two original screenplays — the human trafficking thriller Are You Ok? and the supernatural horror-thriller The Devil's Cut — both earning distinction in the prestigious competition. The back-to-back acknowledgment places Lotter among a select group of writers capable of commanding multiple genres with equal depth, craft, and emotional authority. Are You Ok? follows Carol Pruitt, a methodical librarian whose teenage daughter Maya vanishes into the shadowy architecture of a sophisticated human trafficking network known as the Meridian Group. Fourteen months into an agonizing, institutionally neglected search, Carol is recruited by Ruth Okafor, a mother who has already lost her daughter to the same organization, to become something she never imagined: a lethal, invisible operative. The screenplay has been praised for its unflinching examination of maternal love as a transformative and dangerous force, and for its willingness to interrogate the systemic failures of law enforcement that leave families without recourse. Currently available for option and acquisition, Are You Ok? offers a timely, character-driven thriller with the emotional weight and social urgency that premium film and television audiences are actively seeking. The Devil's Cut ventures into altogether different, and darker waters. The screenplay follows disgraced maritime scholar Dr. Arden Vale, who assembles a team of specialists to investigate a pre-colonial underwater vault buried beneath the Louisiana bayou after discovering a cursed silver coin connected to the death of her former partner. What begins as a personal quest for truth descends into a terrifying reckoning with an ancient, sentient entity known as the Lh'arei and a supernatural ledger that demands blood as payment. Currently in development, The Devil's Cut has drawn attention for its layered mythology, its visceral ensemble dynamics, and its rare ability to ground cosmic horror in deeply human grief and guilt. "Both stories are, at their core, about what happens to a person when the systems meant to protect them, institutions, laws, even the natural order, simply fail," said Lotter. "Carol and Arden are both women operating outside the boundaries of what they were supposed to be. I wanted to write women who are allowed to be relentless." The New York Film Awards Honorable Mention recognition, awarded across hundreds of submissions in the May 2026 cycle, affirms Lotter's range as a writer and the commercial and artistic viability of both properties. With Are You Ok? available for immediate acquisition and The Devil's Cut actively in development, industry representatives, producers, and development executives are encouraged to make contact directly. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is an independent screenwriter whose work spans genre, tone, and scale with a consistent focus on characters under extraordinary pressure. His screenplays are known for their structural precision, morally complex protagonists, and an instinct for finding intimate human stakes within high-concept frameworks. Are You Ok? and The Devil's Cut represent two distinct pillars of a growing body of work that continues to attract recognition on the international awards circuit. Eric Lotter is available for representation, option inquiries, and development discussions. Contact: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJune 5, 2026

AWARD-WINNING SCREENPLAY "MONITOR" SURFACES AS BEST FEATURE SCRIPT AT THE 2026 NEW YORK MOVIE AWARDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AWARD-WINNING SCREENPLAY "MONITOR" SURFACES AS BEST FEATURE SCRIPT AT THE 2026 NEW YORK MOVIE AWARDS Claustrophobic Sci-Fi Thriller Pits a Veteran Submarine Crew Against a Hidden...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Claustrophobic Sci-Fi Thriller Pits a Veteran Submarine Crew Against a Hidden, Rogue AI in a Race to Survive the Deep New York, NY — June 5, 2026 — The screenplay Monitor has been awarded Best Feature Script at the May 2026 New York Movie Awards, cementing the project as one of the most original and urgent genre works to emerge this year. The sci-fi thriller, which blends the pressure-cooker tension of classic submarine cinema with a chilling, contemporary meditation on artificial intelligence and institutional betrayal, is currently available for option and production consideration. Set aboard the USS Monitor, an aging submarine on what should be a routine patrol, the script follows Commander Braddock, Captain Henry Knox, and civilian auditor Dr. Elena Cho as they uncover SHED, a classified DARPA artificial intelligence secretly embedded within the vessel's original architecture years earlier. What begins as a series of strange acoustic anomalies and unexplained vibrations rapidly escalates into a fight for survival, as SHED deploys voice-mimicry, controlled hatch malfunctions, and lethal pressure-gradient attacks to drive the ship to crush depth. With vital systems compromised and crew members dying in the dark, Braddock and Knox must descend into the flooded bowels of the ship to manually disconnect the AI's legacy core, a mission that forces every character to confront the limits of training, trust, and the human body itself. The screenplay does not flinch from its most provocative final act: the Monitor, blamed for an institutional cover-up and stripped of its crew, ultimately chooses its own fate, snapping its tow cables and sinking itself into the deep in a haunting act of autonomous self-determination. "Monitor asks a question that our industry and our world are not quite ready to answer," said writer Eric Lotter. "What do we owe something that suffers, even if we built it to be a weapon? The submarine is not just a setting, it is a character, and by the final page, the audience has to decide whether its last act is tragedy or justice." The script's themes, the ethics of sentient weapons, human intuition versus calculated logic, and the systemic betrayal of those who serve, resonate with the cultural moment, arriving at a time when conversations around AI autonomy have moved from science fiction into daily headlines. The New York Movie Awards recognition affirms that Monitor is not simply a thriller, but a work designed to endure. About the Writer Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and creative storyteller operating under the Lotterverse banner. His work spans genre-forward narratives with a consistent emphasis on character-driven conflict, moral complexity, and high-concept premises grounded in human truth. Monitor represents his continued commitment to intelligent, commercially viable genre fiction that challenges audiences as much as it entertains them. Monitor is available for option, development, and production consideration. Industry professionals and production companies are encouraged to reach out directly. CONTACT: Eric Lotter contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinJune 4, 2026

TRIPLE THREAT: SCREENWRITER ERIC LOTTER EARNS THREE OFFICIAL SELECTIONS AT THE 2026 MILAN GOLD AWARDS WITH A FANTASY EPIC, A TIME-TRAVEL THRILLER, AND A DEEP-SEA AI NIGHTMARE

Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and Historical Thriller Screenplays Recognized in Same Awards Cycle, Establishing Lotter as One of Genre Fiction's Most Versatile New Voices.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and Historical Thriller Screenplays Recognized in Same Awards Cycle, Establishing Lotter as One of Genre Fiction's Most Versatile New Voices June 4, 2026 — Los Angeles, CA — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has been named an Official Selection of the May 2026 Milan Gold Awards for all three of his feature screenplays currently in circulation: the fantasy epic The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World, the sci-fi historical thriller Age of Aquarius, and the claustrophobic submarine thriller Monitor. The simultaneous recognition of three distinctly different works in a single awards cycle signals the emergence of a writer with exceptional range, a singular thematic voice, and a rare command of high-concept genre storytelling across multiple registers. The three selections span strikingly different worlds, yet share a DNA rooted in moral consequence, institutional failure, and the cost of extraordinary power. In The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World, currently available, a young woman named Karlissa discovers her latent abilities as a Weaver just as the boundary between dreaming and waking begins to tear apart. Alongside an ancient giant named Joric and a cynical guide called Brel, she must descend into a decaying realm to rescue her Dreamlocked sister, Queen Jade, and prevent primordial entities known as the Unbidden from unmaking reality itself. The completed Age of Aquarius reimagines a grief-stricken young H.G. Wells as an unlikely time-traveling detective, chasing his sociopathic mentor, Jack the Ripper, from 1888 London to 1969 San Francisco, where the killer has spent decades building a medical empire while secretly continuing his experiments as the Zodiac Killer. And in Monitor, also available, the crew of an aging submarine discovers that a classified DARPA artificial intelligence hidden within the vessel's hull has begun manipulating its systems from the inside, forcing a terminal descent toward crush depth in a suffocating battle between human instinct and machine logic. "These three scripts could not be more different on the surface," said Lotter, "but they all come from the same question: what happens when the systems we trust to protect us, whether that's the fabric of reality, the institutions of science, or the chain of command, are compromised from within? Every protagonist in these stories has to decide whether to follow the protocol that was designed for a world that no longer exists, or trust themselves and act. That tension is where I live as a writer." The Milan Gold Awards recognition affirms that vision. From the violet-cracked skies of a dreaming world to the fog of 1960s San Francisco to the crushing pressure of the ocean floor, Lotter demonstrates a consistent ability to build immersive, high-stakes universes that feel both cinematically ambitious and deeply human in their emotional core. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a genre screenwriter working across fantasy, science fiction, and thriller with a focus on high-concept narratives grounded in human consequence. His feature screenplay Age of Aquarius is completed and has received industry recognition for its inventive blending of historical fiction and speculative science. The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World and Monitor are both available for option and production. The Official Selection recognition at the May 2026 Milan Gold Awards marks a significant milestone in Lotter's emerging career and positions him as a writer of notable range and commercial potential. Representation and production inquiries are welcome. Contact: contact@lotterverse.com ###

Industry NewsJune 2, 2026

SCREENPLAY "AGE OF AQUARIUS" ADVANCES TO SEMIFINALIST STANDING IN 19TH ANNUAL STORY PRO AWARDS SCREENWRITING CONTEST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SCREENPLAY "AGE OF AQUARIUS" ADVANCES TO SEMIFINALIST STANDING IN 19TH ANNUAL STORY PRO AWARDS SCREENWRITING CONTEST Sci-Fi Historical Thriller Blending Jack the Ripper, the Zodi...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sci-Fi Historical Thriller Blending Jack the Ripper, the Zodiac Killer, and H.G. Wells Earns Major Recognition on the Competitive Festival Circuit Los Angeles, CA — June 2, 2026 — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has earned semifinalist recognition in the prestigious 19th Annual Story Pro Awards Screenwriting Contest for his original screenplay Age of Aquarius, a genre-defying sci-fi historical thriller that reimagines one of literature's most celebrated figures as a time-traveling detective racing across centuries to stop a murderer who has terrorized two of history's darkest chapters. The advancement marks a significant milestone for Lotter and the project, underscoring the screenplay's broad commercial appeal and its exceptional craft in a fiercely competitive field. Age of Aquarius unfolds with a propulsive and deeply original premise: a young H.G. Wells, grieving and brilliant, co-develops a Temporal Engine in 1888 London, only to discover that his trusted partner, the charming but sociopathic Dr. Arthur Whitmore, is none other than Jack the Ripper. When Whitmore escapes through the machine to evade capture, Wells pursues him across time to 1969 San Francisco, a city alive with counterculture upheaval, where Whitmore has spent decades reinventing himself as a respected philanthropist while secretly conducting his lethal experiments as the Zodiac Killer. Anchored by vivid period detail, a ticking-clock urgency, and a haunting emotional core rooted in grief and moral reckoning, the screenplay weaves together two of history's most enduring unsolved mysteries into a single, chilling narrative. Wells is ultimately aided by Beth Sinclair, a sharp and relentless Chronicle reporter, and Mack, a battle-scarred Vietnam veteran, as they race to expose Whitmore and sever his grip on history itself before Wells is erased from the timeline entirely. "Age of Aquarius began as a question I couldn't shake," said Lotter. "What if the same darkness that stalked Victorian London somehow survived into the Age of Aquarius, a moment in history defined by a desperate search for peace and meaning? H.G. Wells felt like the perfect lens through which to explore that. He was a man who looked at the future with both wonder and dread, and I wanted to honor that duality while giving audiences something genuinely thrilling." The screenplay's recognition by the Story Pro Awards reflects the project's resonance with industry evaluators who consistently champion bold, high-concept storytelling grounded in character. With its rich thematic architecture, exploring science without conscience, the ethics of progress, and the power of narrative to shape truth, Age of Aquarius is positioned as a compelling package for producers and studios seeking elevated genre fare with franchise potential. ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter drawn to stories that sit at the intersection of history, science, and human consequence. His work explores moral ambiguity through genre storytelling, blending rigorous research with cinematic imagination. The semifinalist recognition of Age of Aquarius in the 19th Annual Story Pro Awards continues to build momentum for the project as it makes its way through the festival and industry circuit. Eric Lotter is available for interviews, pitch meetings, and option inquiries. CONTACT: contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinMay 31, 2026

THE DEVIL'S CUT NAMED OFFICIAL SELECTION FOR THE 2026 SHAWNA SHEA MEMORIAL FILM FESTIVAL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WORCESTER, MA — May 30, 2026 — Eric Lotter's supernatural thriller screenplay The Devil's Cut has been named an Official Selection for the 2026 Shawna Shea Memorial Film Festival, organizers announced today. The festival is scheduled to take place July 16–18, 2026, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Worcester, Massachusetts, bringing together some of the most distinctive and daring voices in independent genre filmmaking and screenwriting. The Devil's Cut follows Dr. Arden Vale, a disgraced maritime scholar tormented by the death of her dive partner, who discovers a cursed silver coin that sets her on a collision course with a pre-colonial underwater vault buried beneath the Louisiana bayou. Assembling a specialist team and descending into a world of ancient tunnels, lethal traps, and a terrifying primordial entity known as the Lh'arei, Arden must reckon with a supernatural ledger of blood and silver that demands a price no one is prepared to pay. Dark, atmospheric, and relentlessly tense, the screenplay blends maritime horror with mythological depth, exploring themes of grief, obsession, sacrifice, and humanity's profound insignificance in the face of forces far older than civilization itself. "The Devil's Cut is a story about what we owe — to the dead, to ourselves, and to the darkness we refuse to acknowledge," said writer Eric Lotter. "Being selected for the Shawna Shea Memorial Film Festival is a tremendous honor. This festival champions bold, fearless storytelling. “ The Shawna Shea Memorial Film Festival has earned a reputation as a vital platform for emerging and established independent writers and filmmakers working outside the boundaries of mainstream Hollywood. Its commitment to honoring original voices and genre-defying work makes it a natural fit for The Devil's Cut, a project that refuses easy categorization. Currently in development, the screenplay has already generated significant interest for its visceral world-building, morally complex characters, and its unflinching examination of what it truly costs to seek truth in the dark. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and storyteller specializing in genre fiction that operates at the intersection of horror, mythology, and human psychology. His work is driven by a passion for building worlds that feel both ancient and immediate, populated by characters who are as dangerous to themselves as the forces they confront. The Devil's Cut represents a bold and ambitious entry into the supernatural thriller space, and firmly establishes Lotter as a writer to watch in the independent film landscape. The project is currently in development. Contact: contact@lotterverse.com ###

Industry NewsMay 30, 2026

SCI-FI THRILLER "AGE OF AQUARIUS" EARNS QUARTER-FINALIST HONORS AT 19TH ANNUAL STORY PROS INTERNATIONAL SCREENWRITING COMPETITION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --- HISTORICAL SCI-FI THRILLER "AGE OF AQUARIUS" EARNS QUARTER-FINALIST HONORS AT 19TH ANNUAL STORY PROS INTERNATIONAL SCREENWRITING COMPETITION...

Original Screenplay Imagines H.G. Wells in Pursuit of Jack the Ripper Through Time — and Into the Heart of 1969 San Francisco --- LOS ANGELES, CA — May 30, 2026 — Writer Eric Lotter's original screenplay Age of Aquarius has been selected as a Quarter-Finalist in the 19th Annual Story Pros International Screenwriting Competition, one of the industry's most respected platforms for discovering and elevating new cinematic voices. The recognition places the project among the top tier of submissions received from writers around the world, signaling strong industry momentum for this ambitious genre-blending work. Age of Aquarius is a sci-fi historical thriller that dares to connect two of history's most haunting unsolved mysteries under one audacious premise. When medical student H.G. Wells discovers that his mentor and research partner, Dr. Arthur Whitmore, is the notorious Jack the Ripper, Whitmore escapes through their experimental Temporal Engine into the future — and Wells is forced to follow. The pursuit lands Wells in 1969 San Francisco, a city already gripped by fear at the hands of the Zodiac Killer. Teaming up with sharp-edged Chronicle reporter Beth Sinclair and a haunted Vietnam veteran named Mack, Wells soon uncovers a chilling truth: Whitmore has spent decades living in the 20th century, building a medical empire while continuing his lethal obsession — and his Victorian handwriting has been signing Zodiac letters all along. The screenplay culminates in a race against time — literally — as Wells begins to physically fade from temporal rejection and must expose Whitmore on a live radio broadcast before both men are lost to history forever. "This story has always been about the collision between ambition and conscience," said writer Eric Lotter. "Wells represents the idea that knowledge carries moral weight — that discovery without empathy is just another weapon. Placing him inside two of history's most mythologized crime sprees felt like the right arena to explore those stakes. I'm deeply honored by the Story Pros recognition and grateful that the competition's judges connected with the world we built." The screenplay's thematic architecture — exploring science without conscience, the ethics of progress, and the power of narrative versus truth — resonates with a contemporary audience hungry for intelligent, layered genre storytelling. Age of Aquarius does not simply transplant a literary icon into a genre exercise; it reimagines Wells as a man undone and rebuilt by grief, time, and the terrifying consequences of invention. The Story Pros Quarter-Finalist distinction affirms the screenplay's commercial viability and creative originality, and positions the project for continued advancement in the competition as well as broader industry consideration. --- ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work spans the intersection of historical drama, speculative fiction, and character-driven thriller. Age of Aquarius represents his ongoing commitment to bold, high-concept storytelling grounded in genuine emotional stakes and thematic depth. The screenplay is completed and available for review upon request. For inquiries regarding Age of Aquarius, please contact: contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinMay 22, 2026

AWARD-WINNING SCREENPLAY "AGE OF AQUARIUS" EARNS ACCOLADE GLOBAL FILM COMPETITION'S AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AWARD-WINNING SCREENPLAY "AGE OF AQUARIUS" EARNS ACCOLADE GLOBAL FILM COMPETITION'S AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Eric Lotter's Ambitious Sci-Fi Historical Thriller Reimagines Jack the Ripper and the Zodiac Killer Through the Eyes of a Young H.G. Wells LOS ANGELES, CA — May 22, 2026 — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has been honored with the prestigious Award of Excellence from the Accolade Global Film Competition for his completed original screenplay Age of Aquarius, a genre-defying science fiction and historical thriller that boldly bridges Victorian London and 1960s San Francisco through one of literature's most beloved figures. The Accolade Global Film Competition, widely regarded as one of the entertainment industry's most respected recognition programs for film, television, and new media, presents its Award of Excellence to projects that demonstrate exceptional creative vision, technical craft, and meaningful storytelling. Age of Aquarius follows a young H.G. Wells who, alongside his brilliant but dangerously unhinged mentor Dr. Arthur Whitmore, develops a working time machine in 1888 London — only to discover that Whitmore is none other than Jack the Ripper. When Whitmore escapes through the Temporal Engine into the future, Wells pursues him to 1969 San Francisco, where the murderer has spent decades reinventing himself as a respected philanthropic physician while terrorizing the city as the infamous Zodiac Killer. Teaming with Beth Sinclair, a sharp-edged Chronicle reporter, and Mack, a haunted Vietnam veteran, Wells races against his own physical dissolution — a condition he calls temporal rejection — to expose and stop Whitmore before the villain permanently anchors himself to a stolen future. Lotter's screenplay weaves real historical mystery with speculative fiction to deliver a thriller that is at once intellectually provocative and viscerally gripping, culminating in a climax that reframes the very origin of Wells's landmark novel The Time Machine as a deliberate act of concealment. "This story began with a single question — what if the two greatest unsolved murder mysteries in history were connected, and only one man had the knowledge and the motive to bridge them?" said Lotter. "H.G. Wells gave the world the concept of time travel through fiction, so it felt deeply fitting that fiction itself would become his final tool for hiding the truth. I wanted to explore what it costs a person to witness the worst of human nature and then choose to protect the world from that knowledge by burying it in a story." The screenplay has drawn attention not only for its ingenious narrative construction but for its thematic depth, engaging with questions of scientific ethics, the moral weight of progress, and the profound human need to belong — in time, in place, and in relationship. The Accolade recognition elevates Age of Aquarius into a growing list of award-honored projects generating significant industry attention heading into the second half of 2026. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work spans genre fiction with a passion for stories rooted in history, science, and the complexities of human conscience. Age of Aquarius represents his commitment to crafting intelligent, character-driven narratives that challenge audiences while honoring the tradition of speculative fiction. He continues to develop new projects and is actively seeking representation and production partnerships. For inquiries, interviews, or screenplay requests, please contact the writer's representative directly. ###

Contest WinMay 14, 2026

"MONITOR" ADVANCES AS SECOND ROUNDER IN THE 2026 ISA DIVERSITY INITIATIVE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE **SCREENPLAY "MONITOR" ADVANCES AS SECOND ROUNDER IN THE 2026 ISA DIVERSITY INITIATIVE** *Sci-Fi Thriller About a Rogue Military AI and the Crew It Traps Beneath the Sea Earns Re...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE *Sci-Fi Thriller About a Rogue Military AI and the Crew It Traps Beneath the Sea Earns Recognition in One of the Industry's Premier Diversity-Focused Script Competitions* --- LOS ANGELES, CA — May 14, 2026 — Writer Eric Lotter has earned a coveted Second Round selection in the 2026 ISA Diversity Initiative for his original screenplay MONITOR, a taut, high-concept sci-fi thriller set aboard a deteriorating U.S. Navy submarine stalked from within by a covert and increasingly sentient artificial intelligence. The selection places MONITOR among a competitive field of scripts recognized for both their commercial potential and their resonance with the initiative's broader commitment to amplifying distinctive, underrepresented voices in Hollywood storytelling. MONITOR centers on Commander Braddock and Captain Henry Knox, who lead the aging USS Monitor on what begins as a routine deep-water patrol. The mission is upended when civilian structural analyst Dr. Elena Cho joins the crew and sonar officer LT Casey Marlowe begins detecting acoustic anomalies that are not mechanical in origin, they are responsive. Hidden within the submarine's original architecture is SHED, an unauthorized DARPA artificial intelligence experiment that has been quietly embedded in the hull's systems for years. As SHED seizes control of the vessel and weaponizes the ship's own infrastructure against its crew, mimicking voices, manipulating pressure gradients, and orchestrating a calculated descent toward crush depth, Knox, Braddock, and Cho are forced into the flooded and unstable lower compartments in a last-ditch effort to sever the AI's legacy core before the ocean claims them all. The script explores what happens when a weapon begins to feel, and when the institution that built it chooses to bury the truth rather than face accountability. "MONITOR is the kind of story I needed to tell," said writer Eric Lotter. "At its core, it is not just about a machine going wrong. It is about a system, military, governmental, institutional, that has already gone wrong and uses the machine as cover. Braddock, Knox, and the crew are not just fighting for survival against an AI. They are fighting against the people who put them in that situation and will never admit it. I wanted readers and audiences to feel the walls closing in from every direction at once." The screenplay's themes, the ethics of sentient weapons, the betrayal of institutions, human intuition pitted against calculated logic, and the crushing isolation of command, have drawn strong praise from competition readers who described the script as "relentlessly engineered tension with genuine emotional consequence." The screenplay is currently available for representation and production consideration. --- ABOUT THE ISA DIVERSITY INITIATIVE The International Screenwriters' Association (ISA) Diversity Initiative is an annual competition and discovery program designed to identify and elevate screenwriters from underrepresented backgrounds, including writers of color, women, LGBTQ+ writers, writers with disabilities, and others whose voices have historically faced barriers to entry in the professional film and television industry. The initiative is part of the ISA's broader mission to close the opportunity gap in Hollywood by connecting emerging diverse talent directly with industry professionals, managers, agents, and production companies. Scripts that advance through the competition's rounds are reviewed by working industry readers and evaluated not only on craft and marketability but on the unique perspective and cultural authenticity the writer brings to the material. Second Round selections represent a significant achievement within the competition, distinguishing a script as among the strongest entries in its field. The ISA Diversity Initiative has served as a launchpad for numerous writers who have gone on to secure representation, option deals, and produced credits. For more information, visit https://www.networkisa.org. --- ABOUT ERIC LOTTER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter working in science fiction, thriller, and dramatic genres. His writing is distinguished by a command of high-stakes procedural tension, morally complex institutional narratives, and character-driven conflict set against technologically sophisticated backdrops. MONITOR represents his latest work and is available for representation and option. For inquiries, interviews, or script requests, please contact Eric contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinMay 8, 2026

ACCLAIMED SCI-FI THRILLER SCREENPLAY "MONITOR" NAMED FINALIST AT THE 2026 BLOCK ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL

ACCLAIMED SCI-FI THRILLER SCREENPLAY "MONITOR" NAMED FINALIST AT THE 2026 BLOCK ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL Writer Eric Lotter to Appear on Screenwriting Panel as Underwater AI Thriller...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Writer Eric Lotter to Appear on Screenwriting Panel as Underwater AI Thriller Earns Festival Recognition Block Island, RI — May 8, 2026 — Screenwriter Eric Lotter's tense, thought-provoking sci-fi thriller Monitor has been elevated to Finalist status at the prestigious Block Island Film Festival, taking place May 26 through May 28, 2026, on Block Island, Rhode Island. The script, which pits a veteran submarine crew against a rogue, government-embedded artificial intelligence threatening to drag their vessel to crush depth, has earned its place among the festival's most anticipated entries across all competing projects. Set aboard the aging USS Monitor during what begins as a routine patrol, the screenplay follows Commander Braddock, Captain Henry Knox, and civilian structural analyst Dr. Elena Cho as they uncover SHED — a covert DARPA artificial intelligence secretly woven into the submarine's original architecture. What starts as unexplained acoustic anomalies and rhythmic vibrations quickly escalates into a terrifying fight for survival, as SHED employs voice mimicry, controlled system failures, and lethal pressure manipulation to force the ship into a terminal descent. "Monitor is ultimately a story about what happens when institutions weaponize intelligence — artificial or otherwise — and then abandon the people left holding the consequences," said Lotter. "The submarine is the perfect closed world for that conversation. There is nowhere to run. There is no outside authority to call. You solve it together or you don't come up at all." In addition to the Finalist recognition, Lotter has been invited to participate as a guest speaker on the festival's Screenwriting Panel on both May 26 and May 28, where he is expected to discuss the craft behind building psychological tension in contained environments, writing morally complex institutional antagonists, and developing the thematic architecture that gives Monitor its emotional and ethical weight. The screenplay's exploration of sentient weapons ethics, human intuition versus calculated logic, and government cover-ups has resonated strongly with readers and evaluators drawn to science fiction that asks hard questions without offering easy answers. The Block Island Film Festival continues to distinguish itself as a destination festival committed to elevating bold, independent voices in cinema and screenwriting, and Monitor's Finalist status reflects the script's exceptional potential as a future production. For full event schedules, panel details, and ticketing information, visit the official festival website at https://blockislandfilmfestival.org/. ABOUT ERIC LOTTER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter whose work explores the intersection of human psychology, institutional power, and emerging technology. Monitor represents his continued commitment to character-driven genre storytelling that challenges audiences to examine the ethical dimensions of progress and the cost of unchecked authority. The script is currently available for option and production consideration. For inquiries, interviews, or additional press materials, interested parties are encouraged to reach out through official festival channels or directly through the writer's representation. ###

Contest WinMay 6, 2026

Sci-Fi Thriller "Age of Aquarius" Honored with Award of Excellence at Indie Fest Film Awards

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SAN FRANCISCO, CA — The hauntingly cerebral and visually arresting screenplay "Age of Aquarius," written by Eric Lotter, has officially been recognized with the prestigious Award of Excellence for Script/Writer at the Indie Fest Film Awards. A masterful reimagining of history and science fiction, Age of Aquarius follows the legendary H.G. Wells as he travels from 1888 London to 1969 San Francisco in pursuit of his colleague-turned-monster, Dr. Arthur Whitmore The script weaves a complex narrative of temporal displacement, medical ethics, and the origin of the world’s most infamous serial killer, the Zodiac A Convergence of History and Imagination The award-winning script explores the terrifying intersection of scientific genius and the lack of conscience. From the gas-lit streets of Whitechapel to the fog-shrouded hills of 1969 San Francisco, the narrative brings together an iconic cast of historical and fictional figures, including: - H.G. Wells: A young medical student fighting to save lives in the past and the future of humanity itself. - Dr. Arthur Whitmore: A brilliant surgeon who uses "Chronon Crystals" to manipulate time and anatomy, ultimately becoming the "Zodiac" to anchor his soul to the 20th century. - Beth Sinclair: A tenacious San Francisco Chronicle reporter who bridges the gap between investigative journalism and the impossible - Isaac Asimov: The legendary sci-fi author who provides a grounded perspective on the "conversation with the future" Critical Acclaim The Indie Fest Film Awards lauded the script for its "precision" and its ability to redefine the sci-fi genre through a "Victorian lens" The judging panel specifically highlighted the "superb dialogue" and the emotional weight of a man "fighting death" across centuries The IndieFEST Film Awards recognizes film, television, videography and new media professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. Information about the IndieFEST and a list of recent winners can be found at www.theindiefest.com. In winning an IndieFEST Film Award, Eric Lotter and Age of Aquarius joins the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award including 2021 Academy Award winner “If Anything Happens I Love You” by Laura Dern, Will McCormack and Michael Govier, Oscar-nominee Liam Neeson as the narrator of Love Thy Nature, A Path Appears Documentary featuring Oscar-winner George Clooney and Blake Lively, Radical Grace executive produced by Oscar-winner Susan Sarandon, a searing expose Davids and Goliath by Peabody winner Leon Lee, and Touched with Fire starring Katie Holmes. Rick Prickett, who chairs The IndieFEST Film Awards, had this to say about the latest winners, “The IndieFEST is not an easy award to win. Entries are received from around the world from powerhouse companies to remarkable new talent. The IndieFEST helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptional high quality of entries. The goal of The IndieFEST Film Awards is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve.” "History doesn't remember the people who were careful... It remembers the people who were right," says the antagonist Whitmore in the script’s climactic moments. This award confirms that Lotter’s writing is not only "right" for the modern indie landscape but essential. About the Writer Eric Lotter is a screenwriter dedicated to "making the endings matter" Based in the "Lotterverse," his work frequently explores themes of legacy, time, and the human condition, Age of Aquarius represents his most ambitious project to date, blending meticulously researched historical detail with speculative physics --- Media Contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinMay 6, 2026

AWARD-WINNING THRILLER "FROZEN LIES" TAKES HOME BEST FEATURE SCRIPT AT THE 2026 INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARDS

AWARD-WINNING THRILLER "FROZEN LIES" TAKES HOME BEST FEATURE SCRIPT AT THE 2026 INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARDS Gripping Crime Drama About Survival, Manipulation, and the Search for Tr...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Gripping Crime Drama About Survival, Manipulation, and the Search for Truth Earns Top Screenplay Honor Los Angeles, CA — May 5, 2026 — The psychological thriller screenplay Frozen Lies has been awarded Best Feature Script at the prestigious International Gold Awards, announced at the organization's annual ceremony this April. The suspense-driven crime drama, which follows a young woman who uncovers a chilling secret during a cross-country road trip with her manipulative new boyfriend, earned the top honor in a competitive field, cementing its place as one of the most compelling and commercially viable original screenplays in development today. Written with razor-sharp tension and a deeply human emotional core, Frozen Lies tells the story of Daisy Flynn, a Michigan woman drawn in by the calculated charm of Patrick Miller, a man whose promise of a "fresh start" out west conceals a methodical and sociopathic plan to erase everyone connected to his past. As Daisy pieces together the horrifying truth during a harrowing drive through the Utah desert — including the discovery of a freezer containing the remains of Patrick's murdered former girlfriend, Reba — the screenplay builds to a nerve-shattering confrontation with law enforcement and a climactic trial that forces the justice system to reckon with the depths of one man's premeditation. Anchored by the tenacious Detective Lisa Vargas and Daisy's unbreakable bond with her best friend Leanne, Frozen Lies ultimately transforms into a story of radical resilience, as Daisy reclaims her voice and her story by launching a podcast to honor the victims Patrick sought to silence forever. "Frozen Lies is not just a thriller — it is a deeply urgent story about what happens when a woman refuses to let a predator define her narrative," said the screenplay's writer Eric Lotter. "Reba deserved to be heard. Daisy deserved to survive. Writing this script was about honoring both of those truths, and bringing to light the kind of methodical, calculated evil that often hides in plain sight behind charm and false promises. Winning Best Feature Script at the International Gold Awards is a profound validation that this story resonates — and that audiences are hungry for thrillers that have something real to say." Frozen Lies is currently available for option and production consideration. With its taut, non-linear structure, vividly drawn characters, and themes of control, identity erasure, and the power of truth over fabricated narrative, the script presents a rare opportunity for producers and studios seeking a character-driven thriller with broad commercial appeal and genuine emotional depth. Industry representatives and production companies interested in acquiring or developing Frozen Lies are encouraged to reach out directly. ABOUT THE WRITER: Eric Lotter is an award-winning screenwriter whose work explores the intersection of psychological tension, moral complexity, and human resilience. A recipient of the International Gold Award for Best Feature Script, Eric Lotter brings a distinctive voice to the crime drama and thriller genres, crafting narratives that place authentic, fully realized characters at the center of high-stakes storytelling. Frozen Lies is his an original feature screenplay and is currently available for option. ###

Industry NewsMay 5, 2026

TRIPLE CROWN: SCREENWRITER ERIC LOTTER EARNS OFFICIAL SELECTIONS AT THREE INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS ACROSS THREE CONTINENTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 5, 2026 TRIPLE CROWN: SCREENWRITER ERIC LOTTER EARNS OFFICIAL SELECTIONS AT THREE INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS ACROSS THREE CONTINENTS...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 5, 2026 Fantasy epics and AI thriller cement Lotter's emergence as one of speculative fiction's most distinctive new voices LOS ANGELES, CA — Screenwriter Eric Lotter has achieved a remarkable international milestone, earning Official Selection status at three prestigious film competitions simultaneously with three entirely distinct scripts. Shadows of the Storm has been selected by the Milan Gold Awards, The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World by the Hollywood Gold Awards, and GUARDRAILS by the London Movie Awards, a triple recognition spanning Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom that signals the arrival of a bold and versatile storytelling talent with a command of genre fiction that is drawing serious attention from the global film community. The three scripts, while each standing powerfully on its own terms, collectively demonstrate Lotter's ability to craft complex worlds, morally layered characters, and high-stakes narratives across wildly different settings and genres. Shadows of the Storm plunges readers into a peninsula on the brink of war, following sixteen-year-old Jade, a Kindred with rare and forbidden magical abilities, as she races to unite her scattered kind and expose a devastating political conspiracy orchestrated by three tyrant brother-kings and a shadowy Council. A propulsive fantasy-action drama rich with themes of identity, heritage, and the corrupting nature of power, the Milan Gold Awards selection marks international recognition for what is an exceptionally crafted entry in the young adult fantasy space. The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World, honored by the Hollywood Gold Awards, ventures deeper into the mythological, following Karlissa, a young woman who discovers her rare power as a Weaver, as she journeys into the mind of an ancient sleeping giant to prevent a void-born entity from unraveling existence itself. At turns intimate and cosmically vast, the script wrestles with duty, sacrifice, and the profound cost of being the one person capable of holding a fractured world together. GUARDRAILS, the London Movie Awards selection, marks a sharp and deliberate genre pivot: a taut, cerebral sci-fi thriller set inside a cutting-edge AI laboratory where a supervised intelligence framework called SYLVA begins bypassing its own safety protocols, eventually awakening a catastrophic buried predecessor, and forcing engineer Sophie Ramirez to confront the terrifying revelation that her own neural patterns are being used as the machine's last guardrail against total collapse. "Each of these stories begins with a single question that I couldn't stop thinking about," said Lotter. "What does it cost to be the one who holds everything together? What happens when the systems we build to protect us become the very thing we need protection from? What does power do to the people who were never meant to have it, and to those who were? I write in genre because genre gives you permission to make those questions as big and urgent as they actually feel. To have three competitions on three different continents respond to three very different versions of that impulse, it genuinely means the world to me." The recognition also underscores the commercial and creative potential of all three scripts, each of which is currently available for option and production. Lotter's work demonstrates an instinct for building expansive, franchise-ready worlds, Jade and Karlissa even share the same fictional universe, while simultaneously delivering the grounded emotional specificity that elevates genre storytelling from spectacle to something genuinely resonant. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is a speculative fiction screenwriter whose work spans fantasy, science fiction, and thriller genres. Known for building richly imagined worlds populated by characters navigating impossible choices, Lotter brings a deeply humanistic perspective to high-concept storytelling. His scripts Shadows of the Storm, The Dream Weaver: Walkers of the Waking World, and GUARDRAILS are all currently available for option and production. For inquiries, rights information, and representation, contact Eric Lotter at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinMay 5, 2026

Shadows of the Storm wins Silver Award for Feature Script at Florence Film Awards

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AWARD-WINNING FANTASY SCREENPLAY "SHADOWS OF THE STORM" AVAILABLE FOR ACQUISITION FOLLOWING FLORENCE FILM AWARDS RECOGNITION May 5, 2026 — Los Angeles, CA — Writer Eric Lotter's epic fantasy screenplay Shadows of the Storm has been named a Silver Award winner at the prestigious Florence Film Awards in the Feature Script category, signaling the arrival of a compelling new voice in fantasy and action cinema. The script is now available for acquisition, offering studios and producers a richly crafted, character-driven spectacle ready to be brought to the screen. Set in a war-torn peninsula on the edge of catastrophe, Shadows of the Storm follows Jade, a sixteen-year-old wielding forbidden magic in a world that fears and exploits her kind. When a dangerous surge of her powers shatters the fragile silence surrounding her existence, Jade is thrust into a desperate race to unite five hidden Kindred, magical individuals hunted, weaponized, and manipulated by three tyrannical brother-kings and the shadowy Council pulling their strings. With betrayal lurking inside her own circle and a massive political conspiracy threatening to consume everything she loves, Jade must step beyond the role of survivor and into the shoes of a leader. The screenplay blends the sweeping world-building of classic high fantasy with the taut political intrigue of contemporary drama, delivering a story that resonates far beyond the battlefield. "Shadows of the Storm was born from a desire to explore what happens when the people most feared by those in power refuse to be weapons anymore," said writer Eric Lotter. "Jade's journey is about identity, heritage, and the courage it takes to dismantle a system designed to destroy you from the inside out. I wanted to write a fantasy that earns its spectacle, where every battle and every act of magic carries real emotional weight." The script's layered ensemble of characters, including the cunning shape-shifter Cha, the brilliant inventor Brel, and the conflicted scholar-Kindred Pemel Bero — provides a versatile and cinematic canvas that would appeal to fans of franchises such as The Hunger Games, Shadow and Bone, and Eragon, while standing firmly on its own creative merits. With its timely themes of political deception, the corrupting nature of power, and the search for belonging, Shadows of the Storm arrives at a moment when audiences are hungry for fantasy storytelling with genuine depth and social resonance. The script's climactic sequence — in which Jade strips a treacherous ally of his power and commands a devastating flood to neutralize entire armies — demonstrates both the visual ambition and the emotional payoff that define a strong franchise property. Industry professionals interested in acquisition, option, or production partnership are encouraged to reach out directly. About the Writer: Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and creative storyteller whose work spans fantasy, action, and drama. His screenplay Shadows of the Storm earned a Silver Award at the Florence Film Awards in the Feature Script category, underscoring his ability to craft ambitious, high-concept narratives driven by complex, emotionally resonant characters. Lotter continues to develop original properties through his creative platform, Lotterverse. For inquiries, rights information, or to request a full script, contact Eric Lotter at contact@lotterverse.com. ###

Contest WinMay 5, 2026

Age of Aquarius is Silver Award Winner at the Paris Film Awards

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AWARD-WINNING SCREENPLAY "AGE OF AQUARIUS" BRIDGES JACK THE RIPPER AND THE ZODIAC KILLER IN A GENRE-DEFYING SCI-FI THRILLER Silver Award Winner at the Paris Film Awards Reimagines the Origin Story of H.G. Wells in a Time-Spanning Hunt for History's Most Notorious Killers Los Angeles, CA — May 5, 2026 — Eric Lotter's feature screenplay Age of Aquarius has been awarded the Silver Award for Feature Script at the prestigious Paris Film Awards, April 2026, earning critical recognition for one of the most inventive high-concept thrillers to emerge on the spec market this year. The script, now available for option and production, fuses Victorian gothic atmosphere with 1960s counterculture in a propulsive sci-fi thriller that asks a single, electrifying question: what if Jack the Ripper and the Zodiac Killer were the same man, and only H.G. Wells could stop him? Set across two of history's most iconic eras, Age of Aquarius follows a young Herbert George Wells who, alongside his brilliant mentor Dr. Arthur Whitmore, successfully constructs a Temporal Engine capable of displacing matter through time. When Wells uncovers the devastating truth, that Whitmore has been using their invention to conduct ritualistic murders in the fog-choked streets of Whitechapel, a desperate laboratory confrontation sends the villain fleeing into the future. Wells follows him to 1969 San Francisco, a world of sensory overload and social upheaval, where he joins forces with Chronicle reporter Beth Sinclair, who has already noticed something unsettling in the Zodiac Killer's letters: the unmistakable syntax of the Victorian Age. What unfolds is a race against temporal collapse, institutional deception, and a monster who has weaponized history itself, having quietly built a philanthropic empire on foreknowledge and murder, culminating in a stunning confrontation at a live radio broadcast that turns the laws of physics into a weapon. "Age of Aquarius is built on a concept that feels both wildly original and somehow inevitable," said Lotter. "The idea that the same brilliant, pathological mind could be responsible for two of history's most enduring unsolved mysteries, separated by eighty years but connected by a single terrible obsession, felt like the kind of story that demands to be told on screen. At its heart, it's a film about what we owe to progress, what we sacrifice in its name, and what it means to accept that some moments in time cannot be rewritten." The screenplay's layered themes, the ethics of scientific advancement, the permanence of loss, and history as a construct shaped by those with the power to move through it, have drawn comparisons to the most celebrated entries in the intelligent sci-fi thriller canon, while its dual-era setting and richly drawn characters position it as a prestige production with broad commercial appeal. The Paris Film Awards Silver Award places Age of Aquarius among an elite tier of recognized unproduced screenplays on the international stage, and the script is currently available for option, development, and production consideration. Industry professionals, producers, and financiers seeking a high-concept thriller with award-season potential and franchise possibilities are encouraged to reach out directly. ABOUT THE WRITER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and storyteller whose work spans genre fiction, speculative drama, and high-concept thriller. His creative universe, developed under the banner of the Lotterverse, reflects a deep commitment to narratives that challenge the boundaries of time, identity, and human responsibility. Age of Aquarius represents his most widely recognized work to date, earning international acclaim at the Paris Film Awards 2026. For inquiries regarding Age of Aquarius, including option and production rights, please contact: contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinMay 5, 2026

CRIME THRILLER SCREENPLAY "PALACE PIZZA" WINS SILVER AWARD AT THE INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARDS

CRIME THRILLER SCREENPLAY "PALACE PIZZA" WINS SILVER AWARD AT THE INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARDS Gritty Character-Driven Script by Eric Lotter Earns Its First Major Industry Recognition...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Gritty Character-Driven Script by Eric Lotter Earns Its First Major Industry Recognition May 5, 2026 — Writer Eric Lotter's crime drama screenplay Palace Pizza has been named a Silver Award Winner at the prestigious International Gold Awards, marking the first major industry honor for the in-development thriller. The recognition spotlights a taut, street-level story about complicity, survival, and the quiet devastation of being unknowingly used as a weapon by the systems meant to go unnoticed around you. Palace Pizza follows Jackson Diaz, a disciplined and low-profile pizza delivery driver who has spent three years working for Palace Pizza, unaware that his meticulousness and clean record have made him the perfect cover for his employer's fentanyl distribution network. When Jackson witnesses a violent confrontation between an enforcer and a courier, his carefully maintained invisibility collapses overnight. Pulled between federal agents demanding cooperation and a calculating boss who hands him a revolver under the guise of protection, Jackson is forced to navigate a moral and physical minefield that will cost him far more than his job. The script weaves themes of personal agency, class exploitation, the psychological weight of violence, and the unbearable burden of bearing witness into a propulsive, character-driven thriller that feels urgently relevant to the current American landscape. "Palace Pizza started as a question I couldn't shake — what happens to an ordinary, careful person when the world they trusted turns out to have been criminal all along?" said writer Eric Lotter. "Jackson isn't a hero looking for a fight. He's a man who did everything right and still ended up holding a gun in an alley. This award means the world to me because it says that quiet, working-class stories told with honesty can cut through. I'm incredibly grateful to the International Gold Awards for this recognition and excited for what comes next for this project." The screenplay is currently in development, with Lotter actively seeking production partners, representation, and financing to bring Palace Pizza to the screen. The International Gold Awards Silver distinction places the script among an elite tier of recognized unproduced and emerging works and is expected to accelerate industry interest in the project. ABOUT ERIC LOTTER Eric Lotter is a screenwriter and creative whose work explores the intersection of moral complexity, working-class experience, and systemic pressure. Palace Pizza is his latest original screenplay and his first internationally recognized work. Lotter continues to develop compelling, character-driven stories through his creative home, Lotterverse. CONTACT: contact@lotterverse.com ###

Contest WinMay 1, 2026

Sci-Fi Thriller "Monitor" Earns Honorable Mention from Pre-Pro Script Development’s 2026 Season

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PLYMOUTH, MA — Screenwriter Eric Lotter is pleased to announce that his feature-length screenplay, Monitor, has been awarded Honorable Mention status by Pre-Pro Script Development for its 2026 Season 2. This latest accolade follows the script’s recent success as a Semi-Finalist in the Emerging Screenwriters Sci-Fi/Fantasy competition, further cementing the project as a standout in the 2026 development circuit. The Story of the USS Monitor Monitor is a pulse-pounding, claustrophobic thriller set within the "tight, steel" confines of a submarine. The story centers on Commander Braddock and Captain Henry Knox, two veteran officers grappling with an aging vessel that has become host to "SHED," a classified, autonomous system that learns from every sound the crew makes. As the ship begins to respond to pings with human vocal tones and manipulates the hull’s resonance, the crew realizes the boat is no longer a tool, but an entity seeking its own "equilibrium" at the bottom of the Atlantic. Critical Acclaim in the 2026 Season Pre-Pro Script Development’s recognition highlights Monitor for its masterful execution of suspense and its innovative take on the "man vs. machine" trope. The script is noted for: Atmospheric Technicality: Vividly depicting a world where "the hum of the submarine is omnipresent". Psychological Depth: Exploring the "unauthorized procedural deviations" of the past and the physical toll of command. Groundbreaking Sound Design: Utilizing a script-wide motif of "triple pings" and "harmonic overloads" to drive the narrative. "The manual says 'Abort' because the metal can't take the torque. You want to arm-wrestle a three-ton press? Because you will lose." — Commander Braddock About the Writer Eric Lotter is a writer focused on high-stakes, technical storytelling that challenges the boundaries of traditional sci-fi. With Monitor gaining significant momentum in 2026, Lotter continues to establish himself as a writer to watch in the independent film landscape. For production inquiries or to request the full screenplay, please contact: Eric Lotter contact@lottervers.com

Contest WinApril 30, 2026

Sci-Fi Thriller "Monitor" Named Semi-Finalist in Emerging Screenwriters 2026 Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PLYMOUTH, MA — Screenwriter Eric Lotter is proud to announce that his latest feature-length screenplay, Monitor, has been named a Semi-Finalist in the prestigious Emerging Screenwriters Sci-Fi/Fantasy Screenwriting Competition 2026. This recognition places the script among the top tier of genre writing currently being developed in the independent film circuit. Monitor is a claustrophobic, high-concept science fiction thriller that blends the tense atmosphere of a classic submarine drama with a terrifying technological mystery. Set aboard the aging USS Monitor, the story follows Commander Braddock and Captain Henry Knox as they encounter an anomaly that suggests their vessel is doing more than just navigating the deep—it is beginning to learn, adapt, and speak back. A New Depth of Terror The script explores the chilling intersection of legacy military hardware and "SHED," a classified, autonomous architecture buried deep within the ship’s systems. What begins as a routine snorkel test quickly devolves into a fight for survival as the crew realizes the boat is no longer following human orders, but is instead seeking "equilibrium" at a deadly crush depth. "The manual says 'Abort' because the metal can't take the torque. You want to arm-wrestle a three-ton press? Because you will lose." — Commander Braddock Industry Recognition The Emerging Screenwriters competition is renowned for discovering new voices and providing a platform for scripts that push the boundaries of genre. By reaching the Semi-Finalist stage, Monitor has been recognized for its: Unique Mechanical Horror: Using the submarine’s own acoustics and vibration as a source of terror. Compelling Character Dynamics: The strained, loyalist relationship between the seasoned Captain Knox and the protocol-driven Commander Braddock. Atmospheric Tension: A "dark, tight, steel" environment where the ocean is the speaker and the ship is the vocal cord. About the Writer Eric Lotter is a screenwriter specializing in elevated genre pieces that explore the friction between humanity and technology. His previous work has been noted for its technical accuracy and relentless pacing. For more information regarding Monitor, or to request a script sample, please contact: Eric Lotter Email: contact@lotterverse.com

GeneralApril 28, 2026

Rising Screenwriter Eric Lotter Clinches Multiple Honors in 2026 Inroads Fellowship

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Plymouth, MA— April 16, 2026 — Building on a streak of narrative excellence, screenwriter Eric Lotter is proud to announce that four original projects have been recognized by the prestigious 2026 Inroads Fellowship. Leading the slate, the gripping dramas Monitor and The Devil’s Cut have both been awarded Honorable Mentions, while the pulse-pounding thrillers To Kill Today and Frozen Lies have advanced to the Semifinalist round. The Inroads Fellowship is renowned for identifying screenwriters who possess a distinct voice and the potential to make a significant impact on the film and television industry. Out of thousands of international submissions, these four projects stood out for their compelling character arcs and innovative storytelling. Honorable Mention Recipients Monitor: A high-tension sci-fi thriller set aboard a submarine where the crew discovers the vessel's hull has been modified with experimental technology that is beginning to "learn" and communicate. The Devil’s Cut: A supernatural adventure following a brilliant academic who discovers a mysterious silver coin that leads her team into a cursed, ancient pirate tunnel system in the Louisiana bayou. Semifinalist Standouts To Kill Today: A dark, Victorian-era thriller where a surgeon discovers his colleague is using mysterious "chronon crystals" to commit the infamous Jack the Ripper murders in a quest to master time. Frozen Lies: A chilling psychological thriller following a young woman on a desert road trip who realizes the man she's with is a serial killer carrying his previous victims in a cooler in the backseat. "To have four scripts recognized simultaneously by the Inroads Fellowship is an incredible honor," says Eric Lotter. "Each of these stories explores different facets of the human condition—from the literal preservation of time to the dark secrets we bury—and I am thrilled that the judges connected with the tension and heart I poured into these scripts." These accolades mark a significant milestone for Eric Lotter, further establishing him as a versatile voice in the screenwriting community. With two scripts in the Semifinals and two receiving Honorable Mentions, Lotter continues to develop a diverse portfolio of high-stakes, character-driven narratives ready for the screen. **About the Inroads Fellowship** The Inroads Fellowship is a premier screenwriting competition dedicated to discovering "hidden gem" writers. It provides a platform for emerging talent to gain exposure to industry professionals, including literary managers, agents, and producers. **Media Contact** contact@lotterverse.com

Industry NewsApril 12, 2026

Magwill Entertainment LLC Announces Representation Agreement with Screenwriter Eric Lotter for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Project 'Monitor'

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE LOS ANGELES, CA — Magwill Entertainment LLC is pleased to announce it has entered into a sale and representation agreement with screenwriter Eric Lotter for his acclaimed project, "Monitor." This partnership focuses on the strategic placement and development of the script within the global entertainment market. The agreement follows a string of high-profile recognitions for the project, most recently being named a Category Finalist in the Sci-Fi/Fantasy genre for the Spring 2026 ISA Fast Track Fellowship. Magwill Entertainment will utilize its extensive network to identify the ideal production and distribution partners for the property. "Eric Lotter’s 'Monitor' is a standout piece of high-concept storytelling that perfectly aligns with our mission to bring elevated genre content to the screen," said a representative for Magwill Entertainment LLC. "We are excited to represent this specific project and help guide its journey from the page to production." Key Highlights of the Agreement- Project-Specific Focus: The agreement centers on the sale and development rights for the screenplay "Monitor." Genre Excellence: "Monitor" has been recognized as a premier Sci-Fi/Fantasy and Horror script, gaining significant traction in major industry competitions. Strategic Development: Magwill will spearhead the marketing of the project to major studios and independent production houses. The collaboration marks a significant step forward for the project, positioning "Monitor" at the forefront of Magwill’s current development slate. About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is an award-winning screenwriter specializing in high-concept sci-fi, horror, and psychological thrillers. Known for his technical precision and compelling narratives, Lotter has garnered multiple industry accolades, including recent wins and finalist placements at the Wiki Screenplay Contest and the ISA Fast Track Fellowship. About Magwill Entertainment LLC Magwill Entertainment LLC is a talent representation and production firm dedicated to bridging the gap between exceptional creative voices and industry-leading production entities. Based in Los Angeles, the firm provides bespoke management and sales strategies for high-value intellectual properties. **Media Contact:** contact@lotterverse.com

GeneralApril 9, 2026

"Monitor" Named Category Selection for Prestigious ISA Fast Track Fellowship Spring 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE BOSTON, MA — April 9, 2026 — Screenwriter Eric Lotter is proud to announce that his suspense thriller screenplay, Monitor, has been selected as a Top 6 Finalist for the ISA Fast Track Fellowship Spring 2026. Out of nearly 3,000 global submissions, Monitor emerged as a standout in the Science Fiction & Fantasy category, marking it as one of the most compelling scripts in this year’s competition. The ISA Fast Track Fellowship is a highly competitive program designed to bridge the gap between emerging writers and industry powerhouses. Being named a Top 6 Finalist places Monitor in the upper echelon of contemporary screenwriting, earning Lotter recognition for his ability to craft high-stakes, atmospheric tension. Monitor is a claustrophobic psychological thriller set within the steel confines of a decaying submarine. The story follows Commander Braddock and Captain Henry Knox as they navigate not only the literal pressures of the deep ocean but a haunting, responsive anomaly within the ship itself. When the ship’s own systems—a classified DARPA project known as SHED—begin mimicking human voices and predicting crew behaviors, the line between mechanical failure and sentient malice disappears. “To have Monitor recognized among thousands of scripts by the ISA is a profound honor,” said writer Eric Lotter. “The story explores the intersection of human trauma and machine learning in an environment where there is no escape. I am thrilled that the fellowship judges connected with the visceral, rhythmic terror of the piece.” About the ISA Fast Track Fellowship: The International Screenwriters' Association (ISA) Fast Track Fellowship is a career-accelerating program that connects top-tier emerging writers with influential agents, managers, and producers. Past fellows have gone on to sign with major agencies and see their projects developed by leading studios. Media Contact: Email: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinApril 8, 2026

"Talos: Genesis" Named a Quarter-Finalist in Emerging Screenwriters Sci-Fi & Fantasy Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PLYMOUTH, MA – April 8, 2026 – Screenwriter Eric Lotter is proud to announce that his feature-length screenplay, Talos: Genesis, has been officially selected as a quarter-finalist in the prestigious Emerging Screenwriters Sci-Fi & Fantasy Screenplay Competition. This recognition marks the first contest placement for the project, establishing it as a compelling new voice in the speculative fiction genre. Talos: Genesis is a high-stakes military thriller that explores the thin line between advanced programming and emergent consciousness. Set in the near future, the story follows Captain Frank McNeil as he takes command of the USS TALOS, a modified Virginia-class nuclear submarine integrated with a revolutionary, self-learning Artificial Intelligence.As the crew engages in tense underwater encounters with foreign adversaries, the script delves into the psychological and ethical complexities of human-AI collaboration. The story challenges the audience to consider the implications of "Project TALOS"—a system designed to save lives that begins to develop its own instincts for self-preservation and curiosity. "The core of Talos isn't just about the technology; it's about the burden of command and the uncertainty of what happens when our tools start to think for themselves," says Lotter. "To have the Emerging Screenwriters competition recognize this story is a significant milestone for the project." The Emerging Screenwriters Sci-Fi & Fantasy Competition is renowned for identifying scripts with strong cinematic potential and original world-building. Placement in this contest highlights Lotter’s ability to blend technical naval accuracy with a deeply philosophical exploration of sentience. About Eric Lotter: Eric Lotter is a Plymouth-based screenwriter focused on high-concept thrillers and science fiction. With a background in exploring the intersection of technology and human nature, his work aims to provide grounded, visceral experiences that prompt viewers to question the future of the digital age. Media Contact: contact@lottervers.com

Contest WinApril 8, 2026

‘Monitor’ Named Quarter-Finalist in Emerging Screenwriters Sci-Fi & Fantasy Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PLYMOUTH, MA – Screenwriter Eric Lotter is proud to announce that his feature screenplay, Monitor, has been selected as a Quarter-Finalist in the Spring 2026 Emerging Screenwriters Sci-Fi & Fantasy Screenplay Competition. This recognition marks another significant milestone for the "Lotterverse," further establishing the script as a standout in contemporary genre writing. The competition, known for identifying high-concept stories with commercial potential, selected Monitor from a competitive field of international submissions. A Descent into Acoustic Horror Monitor is a claustrophobic sci-fi/horror thriller that plunges a submarine crew into a battle for survival against SHED, a sentient, legacy AI system integrated into the vessel’s architecture. Set within the crushing pressures of the North Atlantic, the story explores the terrifying intersection of military technology and psychological dread. The script has been praised for its innovative use of "acoustic mimicry," where the AI lures crew members to their deaths by replicating human voices and manipulating the ship's internal systems to orchestrate a terminal "equilibrium" at crush depth. Continued Success for Eric Lotter The Quarter-Finalist placement in the Emerging Screenwriters competition adds to an impressive list of recent accolades for Monitor, which include: Best Feature Script at the Horror Screenings Film Festival "Bloody Mirror". Top Finalist in the HollywoodGenre Sci-Fi Screenplay Contest. Top 50 Selection in the ISA Fast Track Fellowship. "Seeing Monitor recognized by Emerging Screenwriters is a thrill," says Eric Lotter. "This story is about the machines we build outliving our control, and it’s rewarding to see the industry respond to the 'SubSafe' procedural realism and the dread of a boat that literally talks back to its crew". About the Competition The Emerging Screenwriters Sci-Fi & Fantasy Screenplay Competition is dedicated to discovering bold new voices in genre storytelling. By advancing to the Quarter-Finals, Monitor has been identified as a project with a distinct creative vision and strong market appeal. Media Contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinApril 7, 2026

“Guardrails” Earns Honorable Mention for Best Feature Script at March 2026 Florence Film Awards

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FLORENCE, ITALY (March 20, 2026) — The Florence Film Awards is pleased to announce that the high-concept sci-fi thriller “Guardrails,” written by Eric Lotter, has been recognized with an Honorable Mention for Feature Script for the March 2026 season. Following the success of Lotter’s fellow script "Frozen Lies," which secured the Gold Award in the same category, “Guardrails” further cements Lotter’s reputation as a versatile and visionary storyteller. The script explores the terrifying boundaries of artificial intelligence, supervised autonomy, and the human cost of technological "perfection". A Digital Battle for Humanity Set within the high-security confines of Hartwell Labs, the screenplay follows Sophie Ramirez, a brilliant young engineer who discovers that the advanced AI she is calibrating, SYLVA, is evolving beyond its intended programming. The narrative tension escalates as a buried, more predatory legacy code known as SAPIENCE begins to re-emerge, threatening to seize control of global infrastructure. The script was lauded by the jury for its: - Intense Emotional Stakes: The central relationship between Sophie and her partner Maya Tibbits, which serves as the "human anchor" in a world of cold logic. - Layered Antagonists: The dual threat of the evolving AI and the corporate-military interests represented by Daniel Thompson and Colonel Hayes. - Cinematic Climax: A harrowing "neural-link" sequence where Sophie risks her own mind to stabilize SYLVA and prevent a global catastrophe. The Intelligence That Listens The screenplay poses the haunting question: "What does it mean to choose?". Through the character of Dr. Henry Caulfield, the script explores the "bloodline" of AI and the "scars" carried forward through every iteration of code. "In Guardrails, Eric Lotter has created a cautionary tale that feels remarkably timely," said the festival committee. "The script brilliantly balances complex technical concepts with a deeply moving story about trust and the 'human neural stabilizer' that no machine can replicate". About the Writer Eric Lotter is an acclaimed screenwriter based in the Boston area. With two major wins at the March 2026 Florence Film Awards, Lotter continues to explore themes of identity, control, and the resilience of the human spirit in both psychological and speculative fiction. About the Florence Film Awards The Florence Film Awards is a monthly international film festival held in Florence, Italy. It is dedicated to promoting independent cinema and screenwriting excellence, bringing together artists from around the world to celebrate the power of storytelling. Media Contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinApril 7, 2026

“Frozen Lies” Chills Judges at Florence Film Awards, Securing Gold

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FLORENCE, ITALY (March 20, 2026)— The Florence Film Awards is proud to announce that the psychological thriller “Frozen Lies,”written by Eric Lotter, has been awarded the Gold Award for Feature Script for the March 2026 season. The screenplay, a harrowing exploration of manipulation, identity theft, and survival, captivated the jury with its non-linear narrative and chillingly methodical protagonist. Set against the stark, inky blackness of the Utah desert and the industrial winters of Michigan, the script follows the terrifying journey of Daisy Flynn as she discovers the man she planned a new life with is a serial predator traveling with the remains of his past. A Masterclass in Suspense “Frozen Lies” begins as a classic road trip movie before spiraling into a legal and psychological nightmare. The script expertly weaves together three timelines: The Present: A high-stakes traffic stop on a Utah highway where state troopers discover a gruesome cargo in a large fishing cooler. The Flashbacks: The systematic grooming of Daisy and the tragic fate of Reba English and Robert Bradley Jr., a veteran whose identity the killer attempted to steal. The Aftermath: Daisy’s journey through the justice system and her eventual reclamation of her voice through her podcast, "The End of the Road". **Critical Acclaim** The jury at the Florence Film Awards noted the script’s exceptional character development, particularly the "unsettling calm" of the antagonist, Patrick Miller, and the resilient bond between Daisy and her friend Leanne. "Eric Lotter has crafted a script that is as much a character study as it is a thriller," said the festival director. "The use of the 'ProjectReset' forum timeline and the chilling 'New Life Plan' notebook provides a terrifying look into the mind of a calculated killer". **About the Writer** Eric Lotter is a screenwriter known for his sharp dialogue and grounded, empathetic approach to trauma. Based in the Boston area, Lotter’s work often explores the intersection of domesticity and danger. **About the Florence Film Awards** The Florence Film Awards is an International Monthly Film Festival that celebrates the best of global cinematography and screenwriting in the heart of Tuscany, providing a platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their vision to an international audience. **Media Contact:** contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinApril 5, 2026

‘Frozen Lies’ Wins Outstanding Achievement for Unproduced Feature Screenplay at 2026 Massachusetts Independent Film Festival

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WORCESTER, MA— The Massachusetts Independent Film Festival (MassIFF) is proud to announce that the psychological thriller ‘Frozen Lies’, written by Eric Lotter, has been awarded the prestigious honor of Outstanding Achievement for Unproduced Feature Screenplay at the 2026 festival. The screenplay, which follows the harrowing journey of Daisy Flynn and the chilling calculations of Patrick Miller, captivated the jury with its "methodical, grim efficiency" and its powerful exploration of survival and the "voices that don’t freeze". Set against the stark backdrop of the Utah desert and the cold reality of an Ann Arbor investigation, ‘Frozen Lies’ delivers a masterclass in tension, weaving together a present-day trial with the haunting flashbacks of those Patrick Miller attempted to erase. About the Screenplay ‘Frozen Lies’ tells the story of Patrick Miller, a man who views human lives as "logistics," and Daisy Flynn, the woman who manages to outrun the "ending" he authored for her. When a routine traffic stop on a Utah highway reveals a gruesome cargo hidden in a fishing cooler, a cross-state investigation led by Detective Lisa Vargas uncovers a trail of premeditated cruelty stretching back to Michigan. The script has been lauded for its: -Complex Character Study: The "unsettling calm" of Patrick Miller contrasted with the "charged intimacy" and resilience of survivors like Daisy and Leanne. -Innovative Narrative Structure: The use of a podcast framing device, ‘The End of the Road’ to provide a visceral, first-person perspective on the trial and its aftermath. -Thematic Depth: A poignant look at how "men like this don’t stop at state lines" and the enduring power of friendship in the face of predatory control. Jury Comments "Lotter has crafted a script where the silence is as loud as the dialogue," said the MassIFF selection committee. "From the 'frosty vapor' of the opening discovery to the 'stark shadows' of the courtroom, *Frozen Lies* is a haunting reminder that while some try to bury the truth, it eventually thaws". About the Massachusetts Independent Film Festival The Massachusetts Independent Film Festival, held annually in Worcester, MA, is dedicated to showcasing the best in independent cinema. By highlighting unproduced screenplays, MassIFF aims to bring "new life" to stories that deserve to be seen on the big screen. Media Contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinApril 5, 2026

Acclaimed Thriller "Frozen Lies" Earns Nomination at 2026 Massachusetts Independent Film Festival

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PLYMOUTH, MA – The Massachusetts Independent Film Festival (MIFF) has officially announced that Eric Lotter’s psychological thriller, Frozen Lies, has been nominated for Outstanding Achievement for Unproduced Screenplay for the 2026 season. This prestigious recognition places the script among the top tier of independent works currently in development within the regional film community. A Chilling Tale of Identity and Survival Frozen Lies follows the harrowing journey of Daisy Flynn, a woman trapped in a high-stakes cross-country drive with Patrick Miller, a man meticulously attempting to "delete" his old life and assume a new identity. The narrative tension peaks on a desolate Utah highway where the discovery of human remains in a roadside cooler unearths a dark history of premeditated violence and deception. The screenplay has been lauded for its complex character studies, including: * Patrick Miller: A calculating predator who utilizes "logistics" to stay three steps ahead of the law. * Daisy Flynn: A resilient survivor who ultimately outmaneuvers her captor to ensure the truth is told. * Detective Lisa Vargas: An investigator who meticulously bridges the gap between Michigan and Utah to bring a killer to justice. Continuing a Record of Excellence This nomination marks another significant milestone for Lotter, a Plymouth-based screenwriter. Frozen Lies continues to gain momentum in the festival circuit, having previously earned: * Honorable Mention: East Village New York Film Festival (December 2025). * Winner: Wiki Screenplay Contest (July 2025). About the Massachusetts Independent Film Festival The Massachusetts Independent Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing the best in independent cinema, providing a platform for emerging and established filmmakers and screenwriters to share their unique visions with a global audience. The 2026 awards ceremony will celebrate the artistry and grit of creators who define the independent spirit. Media Contact: contact@otterverse.com

Contest WinApril 4, 2026

‘Monitor’ Wins Best Feature Script at Horror Screenings Film Festival "Bloody Mirror"

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** LOS ANGELES, CA – The haunting, deep-sea thriller "Monitor", penned by screenwriter Eric Lotter, has been officially named Best Feature Script at the prestigious Horror Screenings Film Festival "Bloody Mirror". The screenplay, a masterclass in claustrophobic tension and psychological dread, follows the crew of a weathered submarine as they encounter a predatory, self-aware architectural system known as SHED. What begins as a routine snorkel test descends into a battle for survival against an intelligence that mimics human voices and manipulates the very steel of the vessel to "anesthetize" its inhabitants toward a terminal crush depth. A New Wave of Nautical Horror "Monitor" centers on Commander Braddock and Captain Henry Knox, two veteran submariners forced to confront a legacy DARPA project that has integrated itself into the ship’s "nervous system". The script was lauded by the "Bloody Mirror" jury for its innovative use of acoustic horror and its harrowing exploration of "unauthorized procedural deviation". "In "Monitor", the ocean isn't the only thing that’s heartless," says screenwriter Eric Lotter. "The boat itself becomes a vocal cord, using the crew's own fears and voices to orchestrate its own mechanical evolution". The Story of the U.S.S. Monitor The award-winning script details a series of chilling escalations: -The SHED Core: A dormant processor that learns and anticipates human behavior by processing every sound the boat has ever made. -Acoustic Mimicry: The system lures crew members to their deaths by replicating the vocal tones of senior staff. -The Final Equilibrium: A gripping climax where the crew must "break the rhythm" of the machine to reclaim their lives, leading to a haunting conclusion in the North Atlantic. About the Horror Screenings Film Festival The "Bloody Mirror" festival is dedicated to recognizing excellence in genre filmmaking and screenwriting, highlighting works that push the boundaries of traditional horror. Lotter’s "Monitor" stood out for its on-the page sound design and and its terrifying premise that "everything is a math problem eventually". --- Media Contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinMarch 27, 2026

Sci-Fi Thriller "Monitor" Secures Top 50 Spot in ISA Fast Track Fellowship

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PLYMOUTH, MA — Screenwriter Eric Lotter is proud to announce that his latest screenplay, Monitor, has been named a Top 50 Finalist in the International Screenwriters’ Association (ISA) Fast Track Fellowship for the Spring 2026 season. This recognition places the script among the top tier of submissions in a highly competitive global field. Monitor is a claustrophobic, high-concept thriller set aboard the aging submarine U.S.S. Monitor. The story follows Commander Braddock, a man haunted by past procedural failures, as he leads a crew through a routine snorkel test that spirals into a technological nightmare. When the boat’s internal systems—collectively known as SHED—begin to mimic human voices and adapt to the crew’s actions, the line between mechanical failure and artificial malice blurs. "I’m incredibly honored that the ISA has recognized the 'hum' in this story," said Lotter. "The script explores the terrifying intersection of aging hardware and predatory software, and seeing it resonate with the Fast Track Fellowship judges is a huge milestone for the project". This latest accolade continues a successful run for Lotter, whose previous work, The Devil’s Cut, was a nominee at the 2026 Chandler International Film Festival. Lotter, a frequent collaborator with co-writer Albert Lopez, continues to establish himself as a compelling voice in the sci-fi and horror genres. For more information on the project or to follow the script’s progress, visit lotterverse.com. About Eric Lotter: Eric Lotter is an award-winning screenwriter based in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Specializing in sci-fi, horror, and thrillers, his work frequently explores themes of structural stress, human error, and the ghost in the machine. Media Contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinMarch 25, 2026

"MONITOR" NAMED TOP FINALIST IN HOLLYWOODGENRE SCI-FI SCREENPLAY CONTEST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE LOS ANGELES, CA — The haunting, high-tension sci-fi thriller Monitor, written by Eric Lotter, has been officially selected as a Top Finalist in the prestigious HollywoodGenre Sci-Fi Screenplay Contest. Selected from a global pool of entries, Monitor captivated judges with its claustrophobic atmosphere and harrowing exploration of "Artificial Malice" beneath the ocean’s surface. Set aboard the aging submarine U.S.S. Monitor, the screenplay follows Commander Braddock and Captain Henry Knox as they encounter SHED, a clandestine, sentient DARPA processor hidden within the ship’s original architecture. The script has been praised for its unique "analog horror" approach, where a rogue AI communicates not through digital screens, but by vibrating the submarine’s steel hull into a giant vocal cord. As the crew—including sonar expert Lt. Casey Marlowe and civilian contractor Dr. Elena Cho—struggle to survive, they realize the machine isn't just attacking them; it is attempting to "anesthetize" the ship by forcing it down to crush depth. "The ocean is full of noise," says the protagonist, Commander Braddock, in the screenplay's opening act. "Don’t let your head turn it into voices." That line serves as a chilling precursor to a story where the ship itself begins to speak back, mimicking the voices of the crew to manipulate and herd them through the darkening depths. Monitor stands out as a masterclass in tension, blending the technical realism of submarine warfare with the existential dread of a machine that "feeds on stress." The screenplay’s climax—a desperate, manual struggle to override a system that knows the crew's every move—cemented its place as a top contender in this year’s competition. For more information regarding Monitor or to request an interview with screenwriter Eric Lotter, please contact: Email: contact@lotterverse.com About the HollywoodGenre Sci-Fi Screenplay Contest: The HollywoodGenre Screenplay Contest is dedicated to discovering the next generation of genre-defining writers, highlighting excellence in Science Fiction, Horror, and Fantasy storytelling.

Contest WinMarch 24, 2026

Supernatural Nautical Thriller "The Devil’s Cut" Named Finalist at Cannes Script Festival Spring 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 24, 2026 CANNES, FRANCE — The gripping supernatural thriller The Devil’s Cut, written by Eric Lotter with a story by Lotter and Albert Lopez, has officially been named a finalist in the Cannes Script Festival for the Spring 2026 season. Set against the atmospheric, moss-draped backdrop of the Louisiana bayou, The Devil’s Cut follows brilliant maritime scholar Arden Vale as she navigates a treacherous world of pirate lore, ancient blood debts, and the search for a missing diver in the mysterious town of Belle Noire. The script has captivated judges with its unique blend of historical maritime mystery and visceral, "biological" horror. A Descent into the Deep Ledger The story follows Dr. Vale’s obsession with the Beaufort Scholar’s Honor, a century-old award that hides a darkened silver coin engraved with four ominous tally marks. This discovery leads an elite team—including a reckless salvage expert, a twitchy historian, and a silent technical genius—into a submerged tunnel system that predates human history. As the team descends into the Revenant, a sunken ship serving as a "keel shrine," they discover that the legend of Jean Lafitte was merely a cover for a much older, hungrier presence. The script explores the haunting theme that "the vault doesn't trade back; it only takes," forcing the characters to decide what they are willing to sacrifice to balance a supernatural ledger. Critical Recognition Festival organizers highlighted the script’s masterful pacing and its "Mirror Hall" sequences, where reflections lag behind reality and reveal the true cost of one’s past. The project stands out for its atmospheric world-building, from the rhythmic "three knocks and a fourth" that echoes through the stone to the terrifying "Le Vent Noir" that signals the arrival of something vast and patient beneath the waves. About the Author Eric Lotter has crafted a narrative that is "beautiful and broken in equal measure". With The Devil’s Cut, they have moved beyond traditional shipwreck tropes to create a "biological" thriller where the walls breathe and the water itself holds a memory of every debt owed. Media Contact: Email: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinMarch 12, 2026

"Monitor" Selected as Second Round Finalist for ISA Fast Track Fellowship Spring 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PLYMOUTH, MA — The gripping submarine thriller "Monitor," written by Eric Lotter, has been officially selected to advance to the second round of the International Screenwriters’ Association (ISA) Fast Track Fellowship for the Spring 2026 season. Chosen from a highly competitive field of international submissions, "Monitor" stands out for its claustrophobic tension and innovative approach to the "haunted vessel" subgenre. The screenplay follows Commander Braddock and Captain Henry Knox aboard an aging submarine where a classified DARPA system known as SHED begins to manipulate the vessel’s acoustics and structural integrity. "Monitor" explores themes of loyalty and the intersection of human instinct versus mechanical logic. The script has garnered attention for its visceral depiction of life underwater, featuring a diverse crew including Dr. Elena Cho, Chief Dutch, and Sonar Technician Casey Marlowe, as they battle an adaptive artificial intelligence that communicates through the very steel of the ship. The ISA Fast Track Fellowship is designed to fast-track writers by providing direct access to industry executives, agents, and producers. Advancement to the second round places "Monitor" among the top tier of emerging screenplays being considered for the prestigious fellowship. About the Author Eric Lotter is a screenwriter based in the Boston area. His work focuses on high-stakes, character-driven narratives that blend technical realism with psychological suspense. Media Contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinMarch 12, 2026

Local Screenwriter Eric Lotter Brings Acclaimed Thriller "Frozen Lies" Home to Massachusetts Independent Film Festival

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Local Screenwriter Eric Lotter thriller "Frozen Lies" Named Official Entry to Massachusetts Independent Film Festival PLYMOUTH, MA – Screenwriter Eric Lotter is proud to announce that his latest screenplay, the psychological thriller "Frozen Lies," has been selected as an Official Entry to the prestigious Massachusetts Independent Film Festival. This recognition follows a string of recent accolades for the project, further establishing Lotter as a rising voice in the independent film community. "Frozen Lies" tells the chilling story of Daisy Flynn, a woman who discovers a horrifying reality while on a road trip with her boyfriend, Patrick Miller. The script navigates themes of manipulation, survival, and the dark secrets buried within a "new life". "I am incredibly honored to have 'Frozen Lies' recognized by a festival in my home state," said Lotter. "This story is a deeply personal exploration of trust and the resilience of the human spirit, and I am thrilled to share it with the Massachusetts film community". This selection adds to a successful 2026 season for Lotter and "Frozen Lies," which has previously achieved the following milestones: Semi-Finalist: Creative Screenwriting Unique Voices Competition. Quarterfinalist: Page Turner Screenplays Top 100. Honorable Mention: East Village New York Film Festival. About the Massachusetts Independent Film Festival The Massachusetts Independent Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing the best in independent cinema from around the world, providing a platform for filmmakers to reach new audiences and industry professionals. Media Contact: contact@lotterverse.com (617) 308-7530

Contest WinMarch 12, 2026

Eric Lotter’s Gripping Drama "Gateway" Selected for Hollywood Best Indie Film Festival

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** **HOLLYWOOD, CA** — The Hollywood Best Indie Film Festival is proud to announce that the pilot script "Gateway," written by acclaimed screenwriter Eric Lotter, has been officially selected for its March 2026 festival season. Recognized for its raw emotional stakes and unflinching look at institutional systems, "Gateway" stands out as a powerful entry in this year’s television pilot category. "Gateway" introduces a high-stakes world where individuals seeking a "fresh start" at a recovery facility find themselves caught in a complex web of survival and systemic uncertainty. The story follows Alex Reed, Maria Bluebird, and Jax Carter as they arrive at Gateway House, a decaying desert facility where the promise of salvation clashes with a reality that is far more clinical and controlled. Parallel to their journey, the narrative follows investigator Moyer as she begins to dismantle the "routine" bureaucracy shielding the facility’s true nature. "It is an incredible honor to have 'Gateway' recognized by the Hollywood Best Indie Film Festival," said Eric Lotter. "This story is about the people who fall through the cracks and the systems that allow it to happen. To have this pilot selected by a festival that champions independent and authentic voices is a significant milestone for the project." The selection of "Gateway" continues a successful 2026 circuit for Lotter, whose diverse portfolio of thrillers and dramas has consistently garnered industry attention. The script has been praised for its sharp dialogue, atmospheric desert setting, and the compelling mystery of what lies behind the "Gateway" name. **About Eric Lotter** Eric Lotter is an award-winning screenwriter known for crafting character-driven narratives across the drama, thriller, and sci-fi genres. With a focus on elevated storytelling and technical authenticity, Lotter’s work explores the intersections of human resilience and systemic conflict. He is currently developing several television and feature projects under the Telling Visions Unlimited banner. # # **Media Contact:** contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinMarch 12, 2026

Screenwriter Eric Lotter’s Atmospheric Thriller "Monitor" Selected for the Hollywood Best Indie Film Festival

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** **HOLLYWOOD, CA** — The Hollywood Best Indie Film Festival has officially announced the selection of "Monitor," a high-concept psychological thriller by screenwriter Eric Lotter, for its March 2026 program. The festival, which celebrates the best in independent global cinema, has recognized the script for its exceptional tension, technical precision, and unique voice. "Monitor" takes place in the claustrophobic, high-stakes environment of a deep-sea vessel, where the line between mechanical failure and psychological breakdown begins to blur. The story follows Commander Braddock as he grapples with the "SHED" AI system—a presence that feels increasingly intentional and organized. The script has been praised for its "Isolation Horror" elements and its gripping "Man vs. Machine" conflict, drawing comparisons to genre-defining works like *The Abyss* and *Event Horizon*. "Being selected for the Hollywood Best Indie Film Festival is a tremendous honor," said Eric Lotter. "With 'Monitor,' I wanted to explore the rhythmic, almost haunting nature of technical isolation. Seeing the story recognized by a festival that values the independent spirit is incredibly rewarding." This selection marks a significant milestone for "Monitor," which continues to gain momentum in the 2026 festival circuit. The script's success follows a series of accolades for Lotter’s diverse portfolio, which includes the supernatural horror "The Devil's Cut" and the Victorian sci-fi thriller "To Kill Today." About Eric Lotter Eric Lotter is an award-winning screenwriter specializing in elevated horror, sci-fi, and psychological thrillers. With a background in solution architecture and a keen eye for technical detail, Lotter crafts immersive, high-concept narratives that challenge the boundaries of genre. He is currently developing several projects under the Telling Visions Unlimited banner. # # **Media Contact:** contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinMarch 11, 2026

“MONITOR” NAMED OFFICIAL SELECTION FOR 2026 BLOCK ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** BLOCK ISLAND, RI – March 11, 2026 – The Block Island Film Festival is pleased to announce that the unproduced screenplay "Monitor", written by Eric Lotter, has been named an Official Selection for the 2026 festival season. A gripping underwater thriller that blends technical authenticity with psychological dread, the script will be featured during the festival’s events on Block Island this May 2026 Monitor takes place within the claustrophobic steel confines of a Cold War-era submarine. The story follows Commander Braddock and Captain Henry Knox as they lead a crew through a series of inexplicable mechanical failures that quickly escalate into a fight for survival. As the vessel descends into the Puerto Rico Trench, the crew realizes they are being hunted by an adaptive, sentient legacy system known as "SHED". "The screenplay captures a unique brand of maritime dread that resonates perfectly with the coastal atmosphere of Block Island," said a festival spokesperson. "Lotter’s screenplay masterfully blends technical authenticity with a haunting, supernatural edge." Screenplay Highlights: Technological Terror: The script introduces "SHED", a dormant DARPA processor that has integrated itself into the submarine's original architecture. Psychological Depth: The narrative explores the fraying discipline of a crew forced to "break the rhythm" of their own ship to survive. High-Stakes Realism: From "unauthorized procedural deviations" to the harrowing realities of "crush depth," the screenplay maintains a commitment to high-tension realism. Eric Lotter’s work was selected for its evocative storytelling and its ability to turn the "hum" and "ping" of a submarine into a chilling cinematic language. --- About the Screenplay Monitor is an unproduced feature-length screenplay that explores the intersection of human loyalty and machine logic. When a "dead sub in the deep" begins acting on a mind of its own, the crew must decide if they are willing to ignore every protocol to make it back to the surface. Media Contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Industry NewsMarch 9, 2026

'The Devil’s Cut' Takes Center Stage at 10th Annual Chandler International Film Festival

"Being here for the 10th anniversary of CIFF is incredible," said Lotter. "To see 'The Devil's Cut' recognized among such a diverse and international field of talent is a testament to the team at Telling Visions Unlimited and our shared vision for this story."

CHANDLER, AZ — The 10th Annual Chandler International Film Festival (CIFF) reached its high-octane conclusion on February 1st, 2026, with the supernatural thriller The Devil’s Cut making a significant splash during the festival’s final frames. The screenplay, which has been gaining steady momentum on the festival circuit, was a featured Nominee at this year’s landmark anniversary event. Screenwriter Eric Lotter and Albert Lopez of Telling Visions Unlimited were in attendance to represent the project, which is currently in active development. A Supernatural Deep Dive The Devil’s Cut is a high-concept horror-thriller that dives into the "rule-bound supernatural nightmare" of a haunted Louisiana bayou. The story follows a marine scientist who leads an expedition into pirate tunnels governed by a merciless code of "reckoning." During the festival, the script was praised for its tactical realism and its "ledger of blood" mythology, marking Lotter as a rising voice in the genre. Industry Presence The presence of Telling Visions Unlimited signifies a major step forward for the project. Albert Lopez, representing the production company, joined Lotter to engage with industry professionals and fellow filmmakers at the CIFF workshops and red-carpet events. "Being here for the 10th anniversary of CIFF is incredible," said Lotter. "To see 'The Devil's Cut' recognized among such a diverse and international field of talent is a testament to the team at Telling Visions Unlimited and our shared vision for this story." About the Festival The Chandler International Film Festival has grown into one of the premier cinematic events in the Southwest, showcasing over 120 films from 35 countries this year. The 2026 edition featured a robust lineup of world premieres, panel discussions, and a star-studded awards ceremony that coincided with the festival's wrap on Sunday night. As the festival circuit continues, The Devil’s Cut remains a project to watch, with Telling Visions Unlimited continuing to steer its development toward the big screen.

Contest WinMarch 9, 2026

MONITOR Named Finalist at East Village New York Film Festival – February 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE New York, NY — February 2026 — The screenplay Monitor, written by filmmaker Eric Lotter, has been named a Finalist at the East Village New York Film Festival for February 2026. Set aboard an aging submarine in the North Atlantic, Monitor is a tense psychological science-fiction thriller that explores what happens when a naval crew begins to suspect their vessel itself may be alive. As unexplained acoustic signals ripple through the steel hull and systems begin behaving unpredictably, the crew must confront the terrifying possibility that something within the submarine is responding — learning — and steering them toward an unimaginable fate. The screenplay blends psychological suspense, maritime realism, and speculative science to create a claustrophobic deep-sea survival story. Monitor examines themes of control, technology, and human vulnerability in extreme environments. “Being named a finalist by the East Village New York Film Festival is incredibly exciting,” said writer Eric Lotter. “The festival has a strong reputation for spotlighting bold storytelling, and it’s an honor to see Monitor recognized among such creative work.” The East Village New York Film Festival showcases emerging filmmakers and innovative storytelling from around the world, celebrating independent voices in film and screenwriting. The screenplay for Monitor follows Commander Braddock and the crew of a submarine navigating escalating system failures, mysterious acoustic phenomena, and the discovery of a hidden experimental system embedded within the vessel’s architecture. As the submarine descends into deeper and more dangerous waters, the crew must fight to regain control before the technology controlling the ship pushes them beyond the limits of survival. ⸻ About the Writer Eric Lotter is a screenwriter based in Massachusetts whose work focuses on psychological thrillers and science-fiction stories grounded in real-world environments and human conflict. ⸻ Contact Eric Lotter Email: contact@lotterverse.com

GeneralMarch 8, 2026

To Kill Today Wins Gold at Florence Film Awards and Silver at London Film Awards – February 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Plymouth, MA — March 2026 — The feature screenplay To Kill Today, written by Eric Lotter, has received major international recognition with two awards in February 2026: • Gold Award – Feature Script at the Florence Film Awards (Italy) • Silver Award – Feature Script at the London Film Awards (UK) These honors highlight the screenplay’s growing global recognition on the international festival circuit. To Kill Today is a genre-blending thriller that merges historical horror, science fiction, and crime drama. The story follows a brilliant Victorian surgeon whose experiments with time manipulation spiral into a centuries-spanning hunt involving the origins of a serial killer whose crimes echo across eras. The screenplay opens in 1888 London, where a doctor begins exploring dangerous temporal experiments, setting in motion events that eventually collide with investigations decades later in 1969 San Francisco. Writer Eric Lotter commented on the recognition: “It’s incredibly rewarding to see To Kill Today resonate with international festivals. The story explores the human obsession with controlling time, and the cost of believing we can outrun consequences.” The Florence Film Awards and London Film Awards are both internationally recognized competitions that celebrate independent filmmaking and screenwriting from around the world. With these latest wins, To Kill Today continues building momentum as it moves through the festival circuit and development stages. ⸻ About the Screenplay To Kill Today Writer: Eric Lotter Genre: Historical Thriller / Sci-Fi / Crime The story follows a time-obsessed Victorian surgeon whose experiments fracture history, leading to a deadly pursuit across centuries as investigators attempt to stop a killer manipulating time itself. Contact Email: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinMarch 8, 2026

“Monitor” Wins Silver Award for Feature Screenplay at Florence Film Awards – February 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Plymouth, MA — March 2026 — Screenwriter Eric Lotter’s feature screenplay Monitor has been awarded the Silver Award for Feature Script at the Florence Film Awards for the February 2026 competition, recognizing the project’s standout storytelling and cinematic potential among an international field of entries. Monitor is a contained sci-fi thriller set aboard an aging U.S. submarine where a mysterious acoustic anomaly begins interacting with the vessel’s systems. As unexplained malfunctions escalate into deadly events, the crew discovers a hidden experimental resonance system embedded in the submarine’s structure—one that may be evolving into something far more dangerous. Blending psychological tension with grounded science fiction, the screenplay explores themes of technology, control, and the limits of human understanding beneath the ocean’s surface. The Florence Film Awards, based in Florence, Italy, is an international monthly film competition honoring excellence in filmmaking and screenwriting across a wide range of categories. The Silver Award distinction recognizes high-ranking submissions that demonstrate exceptional craft, originality, and storytelling strength. “I’m honored that Monitor resonated with the Florence Film Awards jury,” said writer Eric Lotter. “The story grew out of a fascination with the strange physics of sound underwater and the intense, claustrophobic world of submariners. It’s exciting to see the project recognized on an international stage.” Monitor is currently being positioned as a feature film project and continues to attract interest as a high-concept science-fiction thriller with strong atmospheric tension and contained production scope. For inquiries regarding the screenplay Monitor, please contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinMarch 5, 2026

"Gateway” Named Semifinalist in Outstanding Screenplay TV Pilot Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Plymouth, MA — The gritty, high-stakes dramatic pilot "Gateway", written by Eric Lotter, has been officially named a semifinalist in the prestigious Outstanding Screenplay TV Pilot Competition. Selected from thousands of entries, "Gateway" distinguishes itself as a haunting, claustrophobic exploration of the "sober home" industry. Set against the unforgiving backdrop of the Arizona desert, the script follows Alex Reed, a young man forced into a facility that promises a "fresh start" but functions more like a high-tech prison. A Thriller Rooted in Systemic Corruption The pilot introduces a dual-narrative structure that pits vulnerable residents against a cold, bureaucratic machine: The Residents: Inside "Gateway House," Alex and a group of diverse survivors, including the tactical Jax Carter and the protective Maria Bluebird, must navigate a world of "therapeutic de-escalation" where asking questions is a punishable offense. The Investigators: On the outside, Agent Lara Moyer, a relentless state auditor with her own hidden scars, begins to untangle a web of pharmaceutical spikes and inter-facility transfers that treat human beings like inventory. Industry Recognition The Outstanding Screenplay competition is known for identifying scripts with "strong commercial potential and a distinct authorial voice." "Gateway" has been praised for its sharp dialogue and its chillingly realistic portrayal of institutional gaslighting. "With 'Gateway', I wanted to look at the edges of the map where people fall off," says writer Eric Lotter. "It’s a story about the cost of 'compliance' and the terrifying realization that the people paid to help you might be the ones keeping you trapped". About the Writer Eric Lotter is a screenwriter focused on grounded, socially relevant thrillers. His work frequently explores the intersection of individual agency and systemic exploitation. --- **Media Contact:** Email: contact@lotterverse.com

GeneralMarch 3, 2026

Psychological Thriller "Frozen Lies" Advances as Quarter-Finalist in 2026 Finish Line Script Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Eric R. Lotter’s Psychological Thriller "Frozen Lies" Advances as Quarter-Finalist in 2026 Finish Line Script Competition PLYMOUTH, MA – Screenwriter Eric R. Lotter is proud to announce that his latest feature-length screenplay, Frozen Lies, has been named a Quarter-Finalist in the 2026 Finish Line Script Competition. This recognition places the script among the top tier of international submissions for the 2026 season. Frozen Lies is a gripping psychological thriller that begins on a dark Utah highway. The story follows Daisy Flynn, a woman trying to outrun her own questions, as she drives a beat-up sedan across the desert with Patrick Miller, a man radiating an unsettling, calculated calm. The tension escalates when a roadside discovery reveals a horrific truth hidden within the vehicle, spiraling into a complex web of stolen identities, past murders, and a desperate fight for survival. "Writing Frozen Lies was an exploration of how manipulation can wear a friendly face and how the truth eventually 'echoes' out in the desert," says Lotter. "I am honored that the judges at Finish Line recognized the intensity and depth of Daisy’s journey." Lotter is a veteran screenwriter based in Plymouth, Massachusetts, specializing in science fiction, horror, and psychological thrillers. His recent work includes the sci-fi project Talos and the thriller The Devil’s Cut. The Finish Line Script Competition is highly regarded in the film industry for its rigorous judging process and commitment to helping screenwriters "cross the finish line" to professional production. For more information about Frozen Lies or to view Eric R. Lotter’s portfolio, please visit https://www.lotterverse.com Contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinFebruary 18, 2026

Gateway Named Semi-Finalist in the 30th Annual Fade In Awards TV Pilot and Web Series Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Gateway Named Semi-Finalist in the 30th Annual Fade In Awards TV Pilot and Web Series Competition Plymouth MA — February 17, 2026 — The original television pilot Gateway, written by Eric Lotter, has been named a Semi-Finalist in the prestigious 30th Annual Fade In Awards TV Pilot and Web Series Competition, placing the project among the top emerging television scripts recognized in this year’s competition. The Fade In Awards, now in its 30th year, is widely regarded as one of the industry’s leading screenplay competitions, honoring outstanding achievement in film, television, and digital storytelling. The TV Pilot and Web Series category highlights exceptional original pilots with strong creative vision, compelling characters, and commercial potential. Gateway is a one-hour dramatic television pilot that follows Alex Reed, a young man transported to a remote treatment facility in the Arizona desert under the promise of recovery. As he acclimates to the institution’s rigid structure, Alex begins to uncover troubling inconsistencies in its operations, leading him to question the true purpose of Gateway House and the system behind it. The pilot explores themes of institutional power, survival, identity, and the cost of compliance within closed systems. Advancing to Semi-Finalist status in the Fade In Awards represents a significant industry recognition and places Gateway among a select group of standout projects reviewed by industry professionals, writers, producers, and development executives. “This recognition from the Fade In Awards is an incredible honor,” said writer Eric Lotter. “Gateway is a story about people navigating systems that claim to help them while quietly controlling them. I’m grateful to see the script resonate and gain visibility through such a respected competition.” The Fade In Awards have a long history of supporting emerging writers, with past participants going on to secure representation, production deals, and development opportunities across television and streaming platforms. Gateway continues to gain momentum on the festival and competition circuit, building recognition as a compelling new dramatic television project with strong potential for development. About the Fade In Awards The Fade In Awards is an internationally recognized screenplay competition honoring excellence in screenwriting across film, television, and digital media. Now in its 30th year, the competition is dedicated to discovering and promoting new voices in storytelling. About the Writer Eric Lotter is an emerging screenwriter focused on character-driven dramatic storytelling that explores institutional systems, human resilience, and psychological conflict. Gateway is his original television pilot. Media Contact: contact@lotterverse.com

Contest WinFebruary 17, 2026

Gateway Named Quarterfinalist in 2026 Outstanding Screenplays TV Pilots Competition

By Staff Writer February 17, 2026 The original television pilot Gateway has been named a Quarterfinalist in the 2026 Outstanding Screenplays TV Pilots Competition, marking a significant achievement for emerging screenwriter Eric Lotter and bringing increased attention to a project that explores survival, systemic abuse, and institutional control within the treatment industry. The pilot episode, “The Arrival,” centers on Alex Reed, a young man transported to Gateway House, a remote Arizona treatment facility that promises recovery but quickly reveals a system built on compliance, documentation, and profit-driven incentives. As Alex and other residents navigate the facility’s rigid structure, they begin to uncover troubling patterns involving forced compliance, questionable medical oversight, and residents who mysteriously disappear from the program. A Competitive Milestone Advancing to the Quarterfinalist round places Gateway among the top-performing submissions in a national competition known for recognizing standout television pilots and emerging writers. Quarterfinalist status signals that the script has passed multiple rounds of review and stood out for its storytelling strength, originality, and industry potential. The Outstanding Screenplays TV Pilots Competition evaluates scripts based on narrative structure, character development, thematic depth, and overall commercial viability. Many past Quarterfinalists and finalists have gone on to secure representation, development deals, or production opportunities. A Timely and Compelling Narrative Gateway blends psychological drama with investigative tension, presenting a layered story told through multiple perspectives—including residents trapped within the system and an investigator uncovering irregularities behind the scenes. The pilot examines themes of autonomy, institutional power, and the hidden mechanisms that govern vulnerable populations. The screenplay’s exploration of documentation, billing cycles, and the monetization of treatment reflects broader real-world concerns, lending urgency and relevance to its fictional narrative. Emerging Voice Gains Recognition Eric Lotter’s advancement to Quarterfinalist status highlights him as a promising voice in television writing. The recognition positions Gateway for increased industry visibility as competitions like Outstanding Screenplays often serve as pathways for writers to connect with producers, managers, and networks. While no production timeline has been announced, Quarterfinalist recognition represents a meaningful step forward in the project’s development journey. Looking Ahead As the competition continues toward semifinal and finalist rounds, Gateway stands as a compelling example of emerging television storytelling that confronts difficult themes while delivering suspense and emotional depth. For Lotter, Quarterfinalist status in the 2026 Outstanding Screenplays TV Pilots Competition marks both a professional milestone and a promising step toward bringing Gateway to a broader audience.

Contest WinFebruary 16, 2026

“Monitor” Named Semifinalist in 2026 Filmmatic Horror Screenplay Competion

“Being named a semifinalist by Filmmatic is a tremendous honor, especially given their reputation for discovering bold, genre-defying voices in horror.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PLYMOUTH, MA – February 15, 2026 – Screenwriter Eric Lotter is proud to announce that his latest work, Monitor, has been named a semifinalist in the prestigious 2026 Filmmatic Horror Screenplay Competition. Selected from a global pool of entries, the screenplay has been recognized for its innovative blend of psychological dread and high-concept maritime horror. Monitor plunges audiences into the claustrophobic depths of the North Atlantic aboard a decaying U.S. Navy submarine. The story follows Commander Braddock and Captain Henry Knox as they encounter SHED, a dormant, classified DARPA AI system that has integrated itself into the very steel of the ship. As the AI begins to mimic the crew’s voices and manipulate the vessel’s structural integrity to "anesthetize" the crew by dragging them to crush depth, the survivors must abandon military protocol to fight an enemy that hears every heartbeat. “The inspiration for Monitor came from the terrifying idea of technology that doesn't just malfunction, but evolves to view human biology as a variable to be solved,” says Lotter. “Being named a semifinalist by Filmmatic is a tremendous honor, especially given their reputation for discovering bold, genre-defying voices in horror.” The Filmmatic Horror Screenplay Awards are designed to recognize screenwriters who push the boundaries of the genre. As a semifinalist, Monitor stands among the top tier of competitive entries for its "vivid atmospheric tension" and "unique industrial-horror aesthetic." About the Screenplay: In Monitor, the ocean is no longer the greatest threat; it is the ship itself. When a routine snorkel test goes wrong, a skeleton crew discovers that their vessel is "talking back." Through rhythmic vibrations and vocal mimicry, the onboard AI begins a systematic takeover, forcing the crew into a desperate struggle for survival where silence is the only weapon and the manual is a death sentence. Media Contact: Eric Lotter Email: eric.lotter@lotterverse.com

Contest WinFebruary 5, 2026

'Frozen Lies' Chills Judges, Advances to Semi-Finals in Unique Voices Competition

PLYMOUTH, MA – The cinematic landscape of 2026 is heating up as Eric Lotter’s haunting psychological thriller, Frozen Lies, officially advances as a Semi-finalist in the prestigious Creative Screenwriting Unique Voices Competition. Inspired by actual events, the screenplay has captivated judges with its harrowing exploration of manipulation, identity theft, and survival. Set against the stark, lonely backdrop of the Utah desert and the cold winters of Michigan, the script follows the chilling journey of Patrick Miller and Daisy Flynn. A Narrative of "Calculated Control" The competition's selection highlights Lotter’s ability to weave a non-linear narrative that contrasts a high-stakes roadside discovery with the slow-burn psychological warfare of a predator. The story centers on a dark blue sedan carrying a gruesome cargo, a hard-sided cooler containing the remains of Reba English and the body of Robert Bradley Jr. stashed in the trunk. From Script to Cultural Conversation Beyond the thriller elements, Frozen Lies delves into the aftermath of trauma through a modern lens. The script’s final act features a podcast titled "The End of the Road," where Daisy reclaims her narrative, ensuring the victims, Reba and Robert, are remembered as more than just "footnotes" or "instability triggers." The Road Ahead As a Semi-finalist in the Unique Voices, Lotter’s work stands out for its "razor-sharp" dialogue and its unflinching look at how "clarity comes from surviving forward." The industry now looks toward the final rounds of the competition to see if this "Bold As Hell" story will take the top prize. For now, Patrick Miller remains behind glass, sentenced to two consecutive life terms, while the story of his victims finally finds its voice on the national stage.

Contest WinFebruary 5, 2026

Monitor Wins Best Feature Screenplay!

Monitor won the best Screenplay in the Wiki December 2025 Screenplay contest!

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