Hi Reader,

The last few weeks have been a whirlwind!

Between final prep, packing, and travel, I was all-in on getting ready for the Vancouver theatrical premiere of Contamination - and it was 100% worth it. Seeing the film on the big screen with a new audience was incredible, especially knowing how much heart and work went into every scene.

But what really made the weekend special? The people.

Unexpected Moments, Real Connections

In addition to the premiere, I had the chance to meet and chat with some amazing film industry professionals - filmmakers, producers, actors, and other creatives. And sometimes those meetings happened in the most unexpected ways… like an impromptu private tour of Martini Studios in Langley, BC.

(Yes, that Martini Studios - where they’ve shot everything from The Night Agent to Snake Eyes.)

We even got to see the hospital set of the upcoming Scrubs reboot, and a fantastic Boeing 767 mockup that would be a dream to film in - I just have to write a script about it!

One conversation turned into three. A quick chat led to new contacts. And just like that… doors opened.

Why Writers Need to Show Up

I know a lot of writers - myself included - tend to prefer quiet over crowds. Writing is a solitary art, and many of us feel more at home behind a screen than in a room full of strangers.

But here’s the thing:

Opportunities don’t just knock.​
​You have to go where the doors are.

If you want someone to read your work…
If you want to collaborate, get hired, or be seen…
​You have to show up - even when it feels awkward or uncomfortable.

I’m Glad I Said Yes

There have been so many times where I hesitated to attend something. Maybe I was tired. Maybe I felt out of place. Maybe I didn’t know anyone there.

But almost every time I went anyway? I was glad I did.

Because it’s in those moments - the ones outside our comfort zone - where some of the most important connections happen.

​

So here’s your reminder for the week:

• If you’ve been putting off an event, a meetup, or even just reaching out to someone whose work you admire - try it.
• If you feel like hiding, remember that your story deserves to be shared.
• And if an opportunity shows up when you weren’t expecting it? Say yes. Lean in. Let yourself grow.

You never know where that conversation might lead.

Thanks for being part of this journey. And if you ever want to talk about your journey - writing, rewriting, filmmaking, or just finding the next step - I’ve got time for you.

Try my one-hour coaching call. You bring the pages, questions, or even just an idea. I’ll help you find what’s working, what’s missing - and how to move forward with confidence.

🗓️ Book Your Session today!​

Book Your Coaching Call Here!

Have a great (and creative) week!

Neil

P.S. Check out my feature film, Spin the Wheel - out now on Tubi!

Click here to watch for FREE: https://tubitv.com/movies/100030151/spin-the-wheel​

Learn more about storytelling, screenwriting, and filmmaking:​ www.neilchasefilm.com.

Looking for in-depth help with your script, story or film? Check out my one-on-one coaching services here.

Check out my Gothic horror-western novel, Iron Dogs, available in eBook, print, and audiobook.

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