MovieBytes - Screenwriting Contests & Markets Online

Just4Shorts Short Screenplay Competition

Objective:

The short film traces its roots to the very beginning of movie history, long before the concept of a feature films existed. Almost a century later, short films continue to strive as a new filmmaker's calling card in Hollywood. Short films serve as a quick, efficient medium to demonstrate a filmmaker's talent. And it all begins with a great script.

Just4Shorts is dedicated to helping new filmmakers and writers gain increased exposure in the industry and to audiences worldwide.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$59

Filmmatic Sci-Fi/Fantasy Awards

Objective:

The Filmmatic Sci-Fi/Fantasy Awards were created to locate and expose up-and-coming science fiction and fantasy screenwriters, as well as to empower and educate those talented writers still waiting for their invitation to the mainstream industry.

If you have an edgy science-fiction drama, an epic fantasy adventure, or anything in-between, we want to see your feature script, TV pilot or short! (We're accepting all projects and genres that have a significant sci-fi and/or fantasy element)

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$59, $29

International Moving Film Festival

Objective:
The International Moving Film Festival is an annual international event dedicated for independent filmmakers. Established by International Moving Film School (IMOFIS). In this global world, which we live in now it, is more important than ever for everybody to be able to share their story. The art of filmmaking is a powerful communication tool that has the ability to reach across borders and bring people together.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
Please see website.

Big Apple Film Festival Screenplay Competition

Objective:

Big Apple Film Festival Screenplay Competition seeks to discover and support the most original and innovative screenplays from emerging and established screenwriters from around the world.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$90 (feature), $85 (short)

Seattle International Screenwriting Honors

Objective:

Seattle's burgeoning independent film community is home to artists, actors, writers, directors, producers, singers, dancers, musicians, storytellers, filmmakers, and multi-hyphenates of all shapes and sizes. People from all walks of life, from all over the world, call our city home. They come hear to learn, hone, and practice their craft. Unlike other major hubs, that are only interested in established talent, artists know they can come to Seattle and grow into their greatness. It’s a city where people become artists. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, Every artist was first an amateur.

Long anchored by a vibrant music scene, one rich in art, education, and cultural diversity, the city has evolved into a community like no other. One that is constantly re-inventing itself and over the past fifty years Seattle has become one of the most vital and vibrant cultural centers in the world.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$65

Palm Springs World Series of Cinema

Objective:

Great films are born when artists come together with a shared vision, each bringing their own voice, craft, and passion to the story. Directors, writers, actors, cinematographers, editors, composers, and designers collaborate across disciplines, shaping ideas into images, sound, and emotion. It is in this creative exchange—where perspectives collide and inspire—that stories gain depth and authenticity. No single talent stands alone; every great film reflects the collective imagination of many minds working in harmony. When artists unite around a common purpose, filmmaking becomes more than a technical process—it becomes an act of trust and belief. Long hours, creative risks, and countless revisions are guided by the same goal: to create something that resonates beyond the screen. Through collaboration, individual artistry is elevated, and personal expression becomes a shared achievement. The greatest films endure because they capture this rare moment when collaboration transforms vision into lasting cinema. The World Series of Cinema was founded to support and showcase artists with this level of passion and integrity. Please note: This event is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Major League Baseball (MLB), any MLB team, or any MLB entity. 'World Series' is a registered trademark of MLB. The World Series of Cinema is a separate, skill-based competition.

Creating great art requires vision, dedication, and the courage to pursue ideas that matter. It is shaped through persistence, experimentation, and a deep respect for craft. Artists refine their work through countless choices—balancing instinct with discipline, risk with intention—while remaining true to the stories and emotions they want to express. Great art does not happen instantly; it evolves through time, patience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. We are committed to helping artists get there. By providing support, opportunity, exposure, and a space where creativity can thrive, we aim to remove barriers and amplify bold voices. We believe in the power of collaboration, guidance, and belief—because when artists are empowered to focus on their vision, their work can reach its fullest potential. Our mission is to stand alongside creators at every stage of the journey, championing the process that turns passion into enduring art.

Exposure has the power to transform an artist’s journey by bringing their work into conversation with the world. When art is seen, heard, and shared, it gains new meaning through the perspectives of others. Exposure opens doors to opportunity, connection, and growth, allowing an artist’s voice to reach beyond its point of origin. It validates the courage it takes to create and invites dialogue that can elevate both the work and the creator. For an artist, exposure can be the difference between potential and possibility realized. It builds momentum, attracting collaborators, supporters, and audiences who believe in the vision behind the work. More than recognition, exposure fosters confidence and momentum, encouraging artists to take greater creative risks. When art is given a platform, it gains the chance to inspire, challenge, and endure—extending its impact far beyond the moment of creation. The World Series of Cinema and Screenwriting is committed to creating this level of exposure for it’s winners.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$60

Scriptapalooza TV Writing Competition

Objective:
Our intention is to help open doors for the aspiring television writer. There are four categories you can submit to, which include 1 hour existing spec scripts, 1/2 hour existing sitcom spec scripts, original pilots, and reality programs. This competition is designed with the TV writer and crossover screenwriter in mind.

The participants we have chosen to read the winning scripts are individuals from established production companies. Whether you are already an aspiring television writer or a writer interested in exploring other avenues, Scriptapalooza TV is here to promote careers in television and provide exposure for the undiscovered writer.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$55

Kairos Prize for Spiritually Uplifting Screenplays

Objective:
Created by Dr. Ted Baehr, founder, publisher and executive producer of MOVIEGUIDE® and founder and chairman of the Christian Film & Television Commission, and Dr. Jack Templeton, the primary purpose of the prize is to further the influence of moral and spiritual values within the film and television industries. Seeking to promote a spiritually uplifting, redemptive worldview, MOVIEGUIDE® announces the Kairos Prize that will help inspire first-time and beginning screenwriters to produce compelling, entertaining, spiritually uplifting scripts that result in a greater increase in either man’s love or understanding of God.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$100

Berlin International Screenwriting Festival

Objective:

"Empowering voices, shaping the future of storytelling"

We believe that everyone has a story to tell and we are committed to providing a platform for writers from all backgrounds and experiences to share their work with the world. We accept submissions from writers of all levels of experience and from all around the world. Whether you are a new writer with a fresh voice, or an established writer looking for a new platform to showcase your work, we want to hear from you.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$50

Hollywood Genre Sci-Fi Screenplay Contest

Objective:

Our mission is to find undiscovered screenwriters and provide exposure in an industry that widely does not accept unsolicited submissions. Promoting writing talent over friends and family in the right places. This competition focuses on sci-fi movies, one of the top genres for international sales potential. Hollywood representation and production companies with credits will consider the winners and top placing scripts for reads.

Hollywood Genre's industry partners, each with years of experience in produced genre projects, are actively seeking for the best undiscovered Sci-Fi screenplays. Ready to submit your most polished sci-fi spec?

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$75

Hollywood Genre Horror Screenplay Contest

Objective:

Our mission is to find undiscovered screenwriters and provide exposure in an industry that widely does not accept unsolicited submissions. Promoting writing talent over friends and family in the right places. This competition focuses on horror. Hollywood representation and production companies with credits will consider the winners and top placing scripts for reads.

Hollywood Genre's industry partners are actively seeking for the best undiscovered Horror writers. Horror genre material is always in demand. Widely considered the most commercial cross-cultural genre, a strong horror script is both a great calling card as well as a highly commercial project.

Ready to submit your most terrifying horror script?

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$79

Breaking Walls Thriller Screenplay Contest

Objective:

Breaking Walls is a contest for thriller screenplays with contacts at established Hollywood literary representation and production companies who have agreed to consider the full winning script and the top finalists' loglines.

Well-written thrillers are always an excellent way for writers to show Hollywood pros a combination of commerciality, unique voice, and a clear understanding of effective feature film narrative. We're here to break down the walls between your talent and our industry contacts looking for the next great thriller writer!

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$85

Los Angeles Crime and Horror Film Festival

Objective:
The Los Angeles Crime and Horror Film Festival is an IMDb qualifying event that aims to increase exposure for high quality crime and horror screenplays, including the many subgenres of crime fiction, mystery, psychological horror, and more. Winners are invited to attend the film screenings and the awards presentation in Hollywood.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$99

Emerging Screenwriters Screenplay Competition

Objective:

Ready to break through?

With $25,000 in cash prizes, we’re seeking the next generation of emerging screenwriters.

Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro ready to take the next leap, this is your opportunity. We’re looking for bold, original features or pilots in any genre—that showcase your unique perspective and undeniable talent.

The Top 10 Screenwriters will receive $1,500 cash EACH and be considered for acceptance onto the ISA Development Slate, where the Development Team will get your script in front of top industry pros from companies like Max, 20th Century, Disney+, Amazon MGM Studios, Harpo, Paramount+, Lucky Chap, Hello Sunshine, Gidden Media, ICM, CAA, plus ISA vetted literary agents and managers.

Of the 10 scripts selected, one of you will go on to win the Grand Prize and receive an additional $10,000. That’s $11,500 to the Grand Prize Winner!

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$79

Script Pipeline First Look Project

Objective:
The Annual First Look Project searches for higher-concept material across MULTIPLE categories for film and TV, introducing select writers to reps and producers.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$70

Shore Scripts Short Film Fund

Objective:

The 2026 Fall Season of the Shore Scripts Short Film Fund will award a $15,000 cash production grant to one short script and $4,000 cash in finishing funds to one short film in post-production.

The Short Film Fund offers an opportunity for emerging screenwriters and filmmakers to receive much-needed financial support to get their work produced and distributed. Our partnerships with ARRI Rental, Oscar-nominated producer Maria Gracia Turgeon, and Tribeca short film programmer Kimberley Browning elevate the films that come through our Fund with free camera equipment, mentorship, and film festival strategy.

Many of our 28 previously funded short films have screened at some of the top film festivals in the world, including Sundance, Tribeca, BFI London, Austin, Cannes, Encounters, and Palm Springs. One even won a BAFTA! Several of those writers and writer/directors have gone on to gain representation, sell screenplays, get staffed on Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, & BBC shows, and develop their shorts into features and TV shows.

Summary of Benefits:

The Grand Prize Winner will receive a cash production grant of $15,000, free camera equipment rental from ARRI Rental for the duration of production, and support from Shore Scripts from development to distribution.
The Finishing Funds Winner will receive a cash grant of $4,000 in finishing funds for a short film currently in post-production, and support from Shore Scripts through post-production and distribution.
Both Winners will connect with two-time Oscar-nominated producer MARIA GRACIA TURGEON for project and career guidance, receive a film festival strategy package from Tribeca programmer KIMBERLEY BROWNING, and have the opportunity to have their completed films circulated to select members of our Industry Roster.
Top 5 Finalists (unproduced scripts) will receive feedback on their scripts from one of our esteemed Judges.
Finalists (unproduced scripts) will have the opportunity to have their scripts circulated to select members of our Directors Roster.
Finalists (finishing funds) will receive feedback on the rough cut of their film from one of our esteemed Judges.
The Short Film Fund accepts submissions from writers, directors, and producers from around the world for narrative short films (live-action & animation), including proof-of-concept shorts for TV series and features.

Projects submitting for the Production Grant must submit a screenplay written in English; however, the production can be filmed in any country and in any language (English subtitles in the finished film are required). We are open to working with writer/directors and directors already attached to the project, including first-time directors. If you are a standalone writer, we can assist in attaching a director and team to the project, if needed.

Projects submitting for Finishing Funds must submit a link to a rough cut, scene assembly, dailies, and/or trailer. For non-English language films, please provide English-language subtitles. You will also be asked to submit a screenplay of the project.

We do not seek to obtain any rights over your script or the finished film at any time. For those who take the funding, we ask for a production company credit and access to promotional material for the short film to promote the project and Fund in the future.

READ MORE ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THE SHORT FILM FUND: https://www.shorescripts.com/historyoftheshortfilmfund/

“Winning the Short Film Fund has brought so many gifts, the least of all being the financial support you provided. I can’t say how grateful I am for all of you and what you do for emerging filmmakers. Thank you, thank you, thank you!” -Alexandra Qin (THIRSTYGIRL, Fall 2022 2nd Place Winner, Sundance 2024 Official Selection)

"I would just like to reiterate my gratitude to Shore Scripts. This isn't something that I would have believed possible and it was entirely enabled by the Short Film Fund. So thank you!" -Lindiwe Makgalemele, writer/director of THE TOWN, Spring 2021 Grand Prize Winner

"Getting to meet with Maria Gracia Turgeon was an amazing experience. The insight and expertise she was able to share with us about our upcoming short film was invaluable, and we are incredibly grateful to Shore Scripts for connecting us!" -Harvey John, writer/producer of TO CATCH A SIREN, Spring 2024 Grand Prize Winner

“We shot on an ARRI Alexa 35 and, man, it was such a bonus having ARRI as part of the prize package. Not just for the budget, but their team was great to work with.” -Eddie Mujica, writer/director of LOCO, Spring 2023 Grand Prize Winner

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$59

Roadmap Writers Proof of Concept Challenge

Objective:

Halfway Crooks Entertainment is partnering with Roadmap Writers to launch the Proof of Concept Challenge, a nationwide search for exceptional short screenplays with feature-film potential. One Grand Prize winner will receive $15,000 in production funding from Halfway Crooks Entertainment to bring their proof-of-concept short film to life, with the opportunity to begin developing the project toward a future feature film.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$65

Filmmatic Pitch Now Screenplay Competition

Objective:

Filmmatic coined a slogan, "Hidden screenplays never get produced". As writers, we spend a lot of our precious time crafting unique scripts, yet we hardly ever employ an equal level of passion when attempting to get our work into the "right hands". The exposure and prestige one can gain from placing or winning a screenplay competition is invaluable, but what do you say this time around we also get you PITCHING!

Let's get proactive, let's pick a production company that makes sense for our project, tell them we were a Pitch Now Finalist or Winner, and get them to review our work, now not later ;)

All 100 finalists will be able to pitch to a studio or production company of their choice via Virtual Pitch Fest!

The competition is open to feature-length and short works, screenplays and teleplays. All Finalists and Winners will be announced by 12/15/19.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$59/$29

13Horror.com Film & Screenplay Contest

Objective:

13Horror.com is back with THE go-to contest for horror screenwriters and film-makers!

The categories for the contest are:

Feature-length screenplays
Short screenplays
Feature-length movies
Short movies

Winning entrants will receive some truly awesome prizes, including:

Cash
Publishing deals
Movie distribution offer
Film-making classes
Contacts with horror movie industry insiders
Horror merchandise
And much more

Each screenplay and movie entrant receives a comprehensive feedback form from one of our Hollywood judges, explaining how their screenplay or film did against the judging criteria. This is included as part of your entry fee and is extremely popular with submitters.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$58 (features) $27 (short)

StoryPros International Screenplay Contest

Objective:
Open to writers of all levels and backgrounds, the StoryPros International's objective is to recognize, support and promote your work with financial rewards, software and services -- as well as providing an open door to industry professionals with guaranteed reads and promotion to our network of contacts. Past entrants and winners have gone on to representation, options, assignments and sales...and even just making the late rounds can get your script noticed!

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$60

Finish Line Script Competition

Objective:

The Finish Line redefines the screenwriting competition, embracing the rewrite as an essential component in any successful screenplay, and incentivizing every entrant to dig deeper, find their best draft, and win. With the guidance of a seasoned script consultant, you can work on your rewrites AFTER submitting your script to the competition and then, after reviewing their notes, RESUBMIT your script to us, having improved your draft and thus bettering your chances to WIN!

Our screenplay consultants will provide comprehensive development notes on your screenplay or pilot, for as many drafts as you choose, focusing on the fact that the STORY and WRITER are KING. Just as with development execs at studios, production companies or networks, we will go through draft after draft with you to get your script into TIPTOP shape. With the Finish Line, winning is always within reach, perhaps only a draft away.

Following our process, everyone who enters The Finish Line Script Competition comes out a winner. One writer will win our amazing Grand Prize, while two others will receive First and Second Runners Up prizes. Everyone else who takes advantage of our consulting services will leave the competition with the insight to get them to the real victory—the consideration of managers, agents, producers and studio or network execs.

If your script is already in perfect shape, great! Submit it as is. We are looking for the best writer in the bunch. Enter the Finish Line Script Competition and come out a winner!

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$58

Hollywood Genre Action Screenplay Contest

Objective:

Our mission is to find undiscovered screenwriters and provide exposure in an industry that widely does not accept unsolicited submissions. Promoting writing talent over friends and family in the right places. This competition focuses on action movies, one of the top genres for international sales potential. Hollywood representation and production companies with credits will consider the winners and top placing scripts for reads.

Have a great action script finished? Submit it to the Hollywood Genre Action Screenplay Contest before the next deadline!

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$75

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Objective:

The BlueCat Screenplay Competition is now open for entries! Submit your feature or short script by the EARLY DEADLINE (August 13th) and get your written analysis by September 12th. Every project submitted will receive their written analysis at no additional cost!

Over 400 managers and agents will be contacted on behalf of the winners and finalists!

There will be two winners: Feature Screenplay and Short Script. We also award the Fellini Prize to the best international screenplay submitted. The two winners will win $3,000 each and the Fellini winner will receive $2,000.

BlueCat has a long and distinguished history of discovering unknown screenwriters, introducing them to the industry, and launching their careers. Some of BlueCat's Alumni include:

Amy Wang, who wrote the upcoming CRAZY RICH ASIANS 2 and is attached to write and direct a horror film for Paramount Players.

Ana Lily Amirpour, who wrote and directed the modern classic A GIRL WALKS HOME ALONE AT NIGHT and the cult favorite THE BAD BATCH.

Benjamin Cleary, who won the Oscar for Best Live Action Short for STUTTERER in 2016. He has since written and directed SWAN SONG for Apple TV+ starring Mahershala Ali.

Aaron Guzikowski, who wrote PRISONERS starring Jake Gyllenhaal and has THE DWELLING in development with Michael B. Jordan attached.

Jane Barr, who has developed projects at Amazon, Chernin, and Lionsgate.

We want to help you develop your script! Submit to BlueCat today!

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
Feature $95, Short $50

Creative Screenwriting Unique Voices Screenplay Competition

Objective:

We have teamed up with several creative partners looking for Features and TV Pilots with unique voices and original stories. Our goal is to build a slate of talented writers with clear voices to pitch to those contacts.

We are seeking unique perspectives in the following genres: Action/Adventure, Animation, Comedy, Drama, Family/Holiday/Young Adult, Mystery/Crime, Historical/Biopic, Horror/Thriller, Sci-Fi/ Fantasy and Western

Some of our current industry mandates include but are not limited to: Female Thrillers, Contained Elevated Horror, Grounded Sci-Fi, Kaufman-esque Mind-Benders, Young Adult, Drama, Comedy and original Holiday Stories. We also encourage writers with diverse or LGBTQIA stories to submit.

Show us your most original work!

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$79

Cinequest Screenwriting Competition

Objective:

Cinequest voted Best Film Festival by USA Today Readers.

Cinequest voted Best Film Festival by USA Today Readers. The Cinequest Screenplay Competition empowers global screenwriters through discovery, recognition, and opportunity. Cinequest loves writers, and we welcome you to submit your screenplay or teleplay to our renowned competition. The Top 10 Finalists receive many empowering benefits including: passes to the Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival and the exclusive Writers Celebration, plus exposure to leading industry players and inspiring luminaries.

Finalists are presented alongside high profile Maverick Spirit awardees like: J.J. Abrams, Lawrence Kasdan, Chuck Palahniuk, Neil Gaiman, Philip Kaufman, Michael Arndt, Diablo Cody, Dennis Lehane, Jason Reitman and more at the highly anticipated Writers Celebration during the Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival.

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$100 Features; $85 Shorts;
$90 Teleplay (60min); $85 Teleplay (30min)

Hollywood Genre Comedy Screenplay Contest

Objective:

Our mission is to find undiscovered screenwriters and provide exposure in an industry that widely does not accept unsolicited submissions. Promoting writing talent over friends and family in the right places. This competition focuses on comedy. Hollywood representation and production companies with credits will consider the winners and top placing scripts for reads.

Hollywood Genre's industry partners are actively seeking for the best undiscovered Comedy writers. As one of the most challenging genres to write well, a strong comedy spec demonstrates another dimension of writing ability.

Ready to submit your funniest comedy script?

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$75

B!tchFest Film Festival & Screenplay Contest

Objective:

Welcome to B!tchFest—where Badass B!tches command the screen! Following the incredible success of B!tchFest Seasons 1 & 2—which featured a combined 47 film and screenplay award winners, a multitude of exceptionally talented runners-up, finalists, and semifinalists, 2 WINNING FILMS PICKED UP BY STREAMING PLATFORMS, 5 SCREENWRITERS WITH PROJECTS NOW IN PRODUCTION, a sold-out venue, and an unforgettable, emotional festival experience—we’re back for B!tchFest Season 3!

WHAT MAKES B!TCHFEST DIFFERENT?

B!tchFest is more than just a festival—it’s a COMMUNITY! One that extends beyond the festival event itself. We are invested in the success of your films and screenplays, offering a space for SUPPORT, CONNECTION, and COLLABORATION for all our past and present submitters. In a world where women and the LGBTQIA+ community often face challenges with equality and representation, we’re here to unite and empower minority creators!

B!tchFest is an INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL & SCREENPLAY CONTEST featuring an impactful in-person festival event for screenwriters and filmmakers in the heart of Los Angeles—where stories that deserve to be heard finally get their moment! By providing a platform for RECOGNITION, AWARDS, PROMOTION, and making NEW CONNECTIONS, we aim to break barriers and help pave the way for a more inclusive entertainment industry.

Join us for a festival that goes beyond screenings—promote your projects, participate in panels, showcase your work to enthusiastic audiences, walk the red carpet, and connect with industry trailblazers who share our commitment to diversity and inclusion. We're on a mission to redefine the narrative by proudly showcasing the best screenplays, television and episodic scripts, stage play scripts, and independent films—including features, shorts, documentaries, student films, music videos, and TV pilots—crafted by the most BADASS WOMEN and LGBTQIA+ CREATORS in the industry.

Our esteemed panel of industry professionals, including directors, producers, agents, managers, executives, and casting directors, will carefully assess all submissions. Our jury consists of experts from various sectors within the entertainment and publishing industries. Established script readers, filmmakers, screenwriters, and story analysts review all entries. Top contenders are then advanced to our executive industry judges for final evaluation to determine the winners of each category.

We truly value your work and the courage it takes to submit your projects! Therefore, every screenplay and film submission is reviewed in its entirety by our judges. B!tchFest does NOT use AI to score or summarize your scripts in any way. Every word on the page is read by a real human, and every minute of every film is watched—from the first frame to the closing credits.

WHEN IS B!TCHFEST?

The 3rd annual B!tchFest Film Festival & Screenplay Contest will be held at the Eastwood Performing Arts Center in Hollywood, CA on Saturday, February 27, 2027.

Winning screenwriters and filmmakers will join our RED CARPET EVENT, SCREEN their films in front of a LIVE AUDIENCE, score TROPHIES and give SPEECHES at our AWARDS CEREMONY, PROMOTE their films and PITCH their scripts during our on-stage PANEL DISCUSSIONS (which will be recorded and streamed on our website for additional promotion), and engage in an INDUSTRY MEET-&-GREET EVENT designed to foster new connections with entertainment professionals who support our mission.

Submit your films and screenplays today and join a revolution that refuses to stay silent. Welcome to the B!tchFest family—together, we can rewrite the rules!

TO SUBMIT PLEASE VISIT OUR FESTIVAL'S FILMFREEWAY PAGE:
https://filmfreeway.com/BtchFestFilmFestivalandScreenplayContestwww.bitchfestla.com

Deadline:

Entry Fee:
$75