The Way We Walk Finalist at Emerging Screenwriters

From Classroom To Competition Stage

Joseph Kibler’s journey from film school student to comedy screenwriter reached a new high mark this spring. In a celebratory Instagram post, the writer-director announced that his romantic comedy screenplay The Way We Walk has been selected as a top ten finalist in the 2025 Emerging Screenwriters comedy competition. The accolade places Kibler in esteemed company—industry insiders say this contest has discovered breakout voices in recent years.

A Winning Script: The Way We Walk

“My romantic comedy screenplay The Way We Walk just got to the top 10 finalists of the @emergingscreenwriters 2025 comedy screenplay competition!” Kibler wrote alongside a snapshot of himself beaming at his laptop. The script follows two characters who bond over a quirky walking tour business that unexpectedly sparks romance. Judges praised its “warm humor, authentic dialogue and fresh premise.”

Early Passion For Storytelling

Long before this latest honor, Kibler was laying the groundwork for success. In 2010, he shared a throwback image from his first semester at Los Angeles Film School—a milestone that marked his dedication to screenwriting craft. That Instagram post captured young Kibler dreaming big, and now he’s well on his way to making those dreams reality.

Instagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ694QhtS6H/

Industry Response And Next Steps

Reaching the top ten in this competitive field often leads to high-profile meetings. Previous finalists have secured representation, studio reads and development deals. Sources close to Kibler say he’s currently polishing a second draft in hopes of attracting agents and producers later this summer.

The Emerging Screenwriters competition is judged blind, so only the script itself determines placement. Kibler credits the rigorous feedback process for sharpening his comedic timing and character arcs. “It’s validation that the voices and stories I care about are resonating,” he said in a follow-up story post.

Behind The Scenes Of A Rom-com

Beyond the page, Kibler has experience in on-set environments. He’s collaborated with actors and crew on indie shorts, honing a collaborative style that reviewers say translates into dynamic screenplays. While The Way We Walk is his first major recognition, colleagues note his enthusiasm for blending relatable stakes with offbeat humor.

What’s Next For Kibler?

Now that he’s a finalist, Kibler plans to leverage festival networks and screenwriting labs. If all goes well, he’ll secure a producer attachment by year’s end and move toward pre-production in 2026. Meanwhile, fans can follow his updates on Instagram, where he teases behind-the-scenes glimpses of character sketches, location scouts and table reads.

With Emerging Screenwriters finalists announced, Kibler’s name is on the shortlist of rising comedy talents to watch. As The Way We Walk moves into the next phase, industry insiders predict it could be one of the year’s most charming indie comedies—built on heart, humor and a writer’s passion that began in a film school classroom.

Kibler’s recognition underscores the value of perseverance and creative vision in a crowded field. His script’s success offers a roadmap for aspiring writers: develop your craft early, embrace feedback and tell stories that reflect genuine human connection.

Writers, producers and fans alike will be keeping an eye on Joseph Kibler as he walks the path from finalist to feature filmmaker. This spring milestone is just the first step in what promises to be an engaging career in screen comedy.

Reporter

Reshmi Das

 

Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.

Read full bio of Reshmi Das