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ScreenCraft TV Pilot Screenplay Competition - Regular Deadline
2024-08-31 | N/A
ABOUT THE SCREENCRAFT TV PILOT SCREENPLAY COMPETITION
Our TV Competition has a history of getting writers signed, staffed, and sold. It’s one of our most successful competitions, period. Winners of this year’s competition receive cash prizes, exclusive workshops, and introductions to industry professionals.
We’re looking for pilots that push genre boundaries like Stranger Things, inspire change like Abbott Elementary and Grey’s Anatomy, transport us to other worlds like The Last of Us and Dark Matter, and entertain like The Bear, Girls5Eva and Beef.
All finalists are guaranteed a meeting with an industry professional and will be invited to an exclusive workshop on how you can best position yourself and your writing in Hollywood. Plus a Q&A session with Emmy-nominated writer and showrunner Kirk Ward (THE CONTINENTAL). This is your opportunity to get your script in front of the people who matter.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
June 30, 2024
Announcements
Quarterfinalist: October 23, 2024
Semifinalist: November 20, 2024
Finalist: January 8, 2025
Winner: January 29, 2025

Early
Regular
Final

Screenplay Submission Deadline
July 31, 2024
Aug 31, 2024
Sept 30, 2024

Visit the TV Pilot Screenplay Competition webpage for competition rules, eligibility, selection criteria, jury members, prizes and more.

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ScreenCraft Horror Screenplay Competition - Early Deadline
2024-08-31 | N/A
ABOUT THE SCREENCRAFT HORROR SCREENPLAY COMPETITION
The Horror genre has timeless appeal - it’s been a mainstay in movie theaters, streaming and TV for hundreds of years. We’re looking for the newest voices with compelling stories to tell.
The ScreenCraft Horror Competition has a long history of creating success for our winners and finalists, many of whom have gone on to sign with companies like Bellevue Productions, Kaplan Perrone, Affirmative Entertainment, Zero Gravity, Story Driven, and more.
All finalists will meet with a member of the jury and be invited to an exclusive Finalist+ workshop on how you can best position yourself and your writing to the industry.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
TBA
Announcements
Quarterfinalist: December 4, 2024
Semifinalist: January 15, 2025
Finalist: February 5, 2025
Winner: February 26, 2025

Early
Regular
Final

Screenplay Submission Deadline
Aug 31, 2024: $49.99
Sept 30, 2024: $49.99
Oct 31, 2024: $49.99

Visit the ScreenCraft Horror Screenplay Competition webpage for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

ScreenCraft Virtual Pitch Competition - Final Deadline
2024-08-31 | N/A
ABOUT THE SCREENCRAFT VIRTUAL PITCH COMPETITION
The ScreenCraft Virtual Pitch Competition gives writers the chance to pitch to industry professionals! Here’s how it works:
1. Submit your best elevator pitch - a written, typed pitch of no more than 350 words.
2. Semifinalists will be asked to submit a 2-minute video pitch.
3. The selected finalists will pitch live and online, to a panel of A-list industry professionals.
Previous finalists have signed ON THE SPOT during the pitch competition with a Hollywood Lit Manager. Past winners and finalists have also landed meetings with companies like Verve, Page Boy Productions, and more.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
TBA
Announcements
Semifinalist: September 18, 2024
Finalist: October 16, 2024
Winner: November 13, 2024

Early
Regular
Final

Screenplay Submission Deadline
June 30, 2024: $24.99
July 31, 2024: $24.99
August 31, 2024: $24.99

Visit the ScreenCraft Virtual Pitch Competition webpage for information about jury members, prizes and more.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

ScreenCraft Drama Screenplay Competition - Final Deadline
2024-08-31 | N/A
ABOUT THE SCREENCRAFT DRAMA SCREENPLAY COMPETITION
Accepting TV and Feature Scripts
Drama is at the heart of great Hollywood storytelling. Past ScreenCraft Drama competition writers have met with A24, MGM, HBO, Hello Sunshine, Bellevue, Ryan Murphy Productions, Anonymous Content, and dozens more -- all through our introductions.
This year’s jury includes companies and clients behind Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, The Umbrella Academy, The West Wing and more.
All finalists will have a guaranteed meeting with an industry professional and be invited to an exclusive Finalist+ workshop on how to best position yourself and your writing to the industry.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
TBA

Early
Regular
Final

Screenplay Submission Deadline
June 30, 2024: $49.99
July 31, 2024: $49.99
August 31, 2024: $49.99

Announcements
Quarterfinalist: October 16, 2024
Semifinalist: November 13, 2024
Finalist: December 11, 2024
Winner: January 22, 2025

Visit the ScreenCraft Drama Screenplay Competition webpage for information about jury members, prizes and more.

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FrightFest
2024-08-22 - 2024-08-26 | Cineworld Cinema, Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7NA, United Kingdom
London, England

ABOUT FRIGHTFEST
FrightFest was conceived by Paul McEvoy, Ian Rattray and Alan Jones and staged its first event in 2000 at the Prince Charles Cinema, off London's Leicester Square. Its August Bank Holiday weekend date has remained a fixture ever since. Greg Day, their long-serving PR man, joined the company as a co-director in 2006.
The objective of FrightFest was to provide the UK with a horror fantasy festival similar to the market leaders in Europe, Sitges (Spain) and Brussels (Belgium). FrightFest has since evolved into a community where audiences and guests alike travel from all over the world to be part of the event's unique atmosphere.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
September 17, 2023
Notification Date
August 7, 2024
Event Date
August 22 - 26, 2024

Early Bird
Final

Short Films
Nov. 30, 2023
July 1, 2024

Feature Films
Dec. 1, 2023
June 1, 2024

Visit the FrightFest website for more information.

Anchorage International Film Festival - Late Deadline
2024-08-20 | Bear Tooth Theatrepub, 1230 West 27th Avenue, Anchorage, AK, 99503, United States
Anchorage, Alaska
United States

ABOUT THE ANCHORAGE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
Anchorage International Film Festival mission is to develop, promote and sustain a film festival that supports new media and independent film making in Alaska and around the world while enriching cultural and entertainment opportunities for Alaskans. Our nonprofit organization continues to play a part in expanding film screening and production opportunities throughout the state.
By bringing filmmakers from all parts of the country and world to Alaska, we want artists to connect with people they might not otherwise meet, and engage audiences in workshops, screenings, and plenty of celebratory parties.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
April 25, 2024
Notification Date
September 25, 2024
Event Date
December 6-14, 2024

Early Bird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
May 31, 2024: $50
July 15, 2024: $60
Aug 20, 2024: $75

Made in Alaska Feature Films
May 31, 2024: $35
July 15, 2024: $45
Aug 20, 2024: $55

Extended Short Films
May 31, 2024: $40
July 15, 2024: $50
Aug 20, 2024: $65

Short Films
May 31, 2024: $35
July 15, 2024: $45
Aug 20, 2024: $60

Made in Alaska Short Films
May 31, 2024: $25
July 15, 2024: $35
Aug 20, 2024: $45

Super Short Films
May 31, 2024: $25
July 15, 2024: $35
Aug 20, 2024: $50

Visit the Anchorage International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Victoria Film Festival - Late Deadline
2024-08-18 | Vic Theatre, 808 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC, V8W 2B7, Canada
Victoria, British Columbia
Canada

ABOUT THE VICTORIA FILM FESTIVAL
The Victoria Film Festival embodies the spirit of the cinematic arts on Vancouver Island. We worship cult films, practice wine & beer sacrifices, offer a ritual of initiation for emerging filmmakers, and bring unique artistic voices from Canada and around the world to local screens.
VFF is open to all forms of creative media, but it is deathly allergic to clichés. Every February, we roust hibernating Victorians and islanders, roll out the pink carpet for the sheer glam of it, and throw a 10-day film festival across the city.
Mission

The mission of the Victoria Film Festival: Impossible.
Why?
The mission of the Victoria Film Festival is to stimulate critical analysis and inspire individuals to recognize and utilize film as a creative tool.
Nah, you’re right, it’s Impossible – but we’re giving it a go anyway. Wheeeeeeeeee!

Vision
We do not look at the world through pink-coloured glasses, we simply see it as pink as a leaf, as blue as an orange, and as rainbowy as our ideas. Come and see for yourself. Or check out our VFF vision prescription eyewear.
Values

Respect
Integrity
Diversity
Open communication
Collaboration
Unique
Forward-thinking

Who do we like to hang with?
It’s been a long time coming but the world is opening its eyes to the brilliance of diversity. We have always shown it in our films and we strive to do it in our office. We go for all the colours and flavours of the world and welcome everyone’s uniqueness. Thank heaven for her, he, and they, you make the world shine.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
April 3, 2024
Notification Date
December 27, 2024
Event Date
February 7-16, 2025

Early Bird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
June 16, 2024: $25
July 14, 2024: $45
Aug 18, 2024: $55

Short Films
June 16, 2024: $25
July 14, 2024: $45
Aug 18, 2024: $55

Visit the Victoria Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Edinburgh International Film Festival
2024-08-15 - 2024-08-21 | N/A
Edinburgh, Scotland
United Kingdom

ABOUT THE EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The original festival. We’re the one that started it all, the igniting spark which established Edinburgh as the world’s Festival City.
Our Origin Story
Founded in 1947, the International Festival was the inspired idea of Rudolf Bing, a cultural pioneer and Jewish refugee of the Nazi regime.
He joined with civic and artistic leaders to create an event that would transcend political boundaries through a global celebration of performing arts in Scotland’s beloved capital city. Over the following 76 years the International Festival has flourished, deepening our commitment to artistic excellence and cultural curiosity. Meanwhile, sister festivals have grown up around us, each of them contributing to the atmosphere of unparalleled excitement that transforms the city every summer.
Our Festival
We welcome the world to Edinburgh to experience our hand-picked programme of the finest performers in dance, opera, music and theatre. Through their artistry we create space for reflection and reconciliation, debate and celebration, bringing people of different cultures and viewpoints together.
Our Impact
Shining far beyond what you see on stage, we aim to be a beacon for the enormous creativity, curiosity and potential held within individuals, communities and our nation. We offer year-round pathways for people of all ages and backgrounds to discover and participate in live performance, and to help shape the future of our Festival. By nurturing the next generation of artists – from inspiring primary schoolchildren to mentoring rising stars – we want this legacy to be felt for years to come.
Our Vision
Our vision is simple: to provide the deepest experience of the highest quality art for the broadest possible audience.
Audience Manifesto

Live performance is most thrilling when audiences and artists are in communion with one another. What we each bring into the room matters.
We invite you to listen, gather, seek, and feel with us. Sometimes we listen so deeply we hear every breath in the room; at other times we gather with a joyful roar! We’ll make sure you know what to expect.
We want you to feel truly welcome at our events. We ask and listen to what you need, aiming to remove barriers through our Access Pass, range of prices, concessions and friendly staff.
There is always something new to discover – we hope our audio introductions, post-show talks and ‘inside out’ concerts will reward your curiosity, whether you’re here for the first time or you’ve been with us through the decades.
There is no singular view on why a symphony matters, what makes opera relatable, or how dance makes us feel. If you seek context and depth, we will connect you with the human stories behind these works of art.
We present you a window to the world. Encounter familiar stories in other languages or from radically different perspectives. Bring an open heart and mind, and we’ll provide specific guidance for those who want to feel more prepared.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 23, 2024
Notification Date
June 30, 2024
Event Date
August 15-21, 2024

Early Bird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
March 8, 2024: $60
March 29, 2024: $70
April 19, 2024: $85

Short Films
March 8, 2024: $25
March 29, 2024: $35
April 19, 2024: $40

Visit the Edinburgh International Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Slamdance Film Festival - Regular Deadline
2024-08-12 | N/A
Park City, Utah
United States

ABOUT THE SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL
The Slamdance Film Festival is a showcase for raw and innovative filmmaking that lives and bleeds by its mantra: By Filmmakers, For Filmmakers. Slamdance has created a track record for showcasing breakthrough artists that is beyond dispute. Filmmakers who first presented their work at the festival are now amongst the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Alumni who have shown their early short films and debut features at Slamdance include Rian Johnson (Knives Out), Ari Aster (Midsommar), Gina Prince-Bythewood (The Old Guard), The Russo Brothers (Avengers: Endgame), Bong Joon Ho (Parasite), Lena Dunham (Girls), Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians), Lynn Shelton (Little Fires Everywhere) and Christopher Nolan (Dunkirk).
The Slamdance Film Festival accepts films in every genre, on any topic, from every country around the world. We spotlight low-budget Narrative and Documentary Features by first-time directors, Breakout Features from non-first time directors, short films across genres, and episodes. We do not disqualify any films based on premiere status or date of completion.
The festival program is selected entirely from our blind submissions pool and no films are given special treatment based on who made them or who they know. Over 200 Slamdance alumni filmmakers are responsible for the programming and organization of the festival. Comprised of a variety of backgrounds, interests, and talents, but with no individual filmmaker’s vote valued more than any other, Slamdance committees have been able to stay close to its original DIY spirit and continue to champion the bleeding-edge of contemporary filmmaking.
"Of all the Sundance myths that developed over the last 35 years, the biggest fallacy is that of being magically discovered and launching one’s career on a snow-covered January evening in Park City. If anything, when that does happen, it’s across the street at Slamdance” - IndieWire

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
May 8, 2024
Notification Date
December 19, 2024
Event Date
February 20-26, 2025

Early Bird
Regular
Late
Extended

Feature Films
July 8, 2024 : $65
Aug 12, 2024: $85
Sept 16, 2024: $110
Oct 11, 2024: $125

Short Films
July 8, 2024: $45
Aug 12, 2024: $60
Sept 16, 2024: $70
Oct 11, 2024: $85

Visit the Slamdance Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Locarno Film Festival
2024-08-07 - 2024-08-17 | Piazza Grande, 6600 Locarno, Locarno, Switzerland
Locarno, Switzerland

ABOUT THE LOCARNO FILM FESTIVAL
Locarno Film Festival was born in the aftermath of the Second World War. It offered a stage for revival, freedom of art and expression for talents from all over the world eager to tell stories in new, different ways. Since its inception, Locarno has been home to the most daring, avant-garde, irreverent and innovative forms of films – screened in their uncut, uncensored versions.
Why do we do this? And why does it matter?
Cinema is complete art capable of influencing a life, shifting a way of thinking. It hits you with intense emotions and truth. It brings to life human complexity, extraordinary or devastating stories, testimonies from another continent that reshape our participation in the world.
Every year since 1946, we present international independent films carefully selected to inspire you, to surprise you, to make you question assumptions, to open your mind, to push you. By showing films at the cutting edge, we nurture bold talents as well as creativity; we share authentic, powerful stories; we enable films to get made and careers to be launched. We write important chapters in film history and we shape the future of cinema.
What makes Locarno different from other film festivals?
When the Locarno Film Festival was launched, we chose to emphasize accessibility to all, to focus on quality, integrity, independence, and to champion films that enrich culture, art, and society. By standing our ground ever since, we have earned the attention and respect of both the international film community and the industry. Our film selections are guarantees of excellence.
There is no hierarchy, instead talents, industry professionals, film students, local personalities, staff, and the audience are invited to mingle, and share in a collective experience. Our red carpet is barrier-free, there are no VIP-only zones; open access to all. You see the films you want to see, you meet people, you discover.
What can I expect at Locarno?
Locarno Film Festival is an adventure. It is a pilgrimage to an ephemeral world entirely dedicated to film, art, and imagination. Nestled in the mountains beside a lake, our remote Swiss-Italian town fully dons the festival colors – the Leopard’s black and yellow – for an intense 11-day celebration of cinema. The festival offers over 450 screenings, talks, events, conferences, concerts, art exhibitions, parties (and so much more!), all located within a walk, a short bike ride or a short bus trip from each other.
Every evening, 8,000 people gather on the Piazza Grande, Europe’s largest outdoor film venue, to watch film premieres under the stars on a massive screen. Thousands of film lovers all gasping in the same breath, laughing at the same joke, sobbing at a character’s misfortune… This ultimate experience of cinema is extraordinary and impossible to replicate anywhere else.
What we care about?

Showing the best quality of independent film and audiovisual art.
Being a place of discovery, exchange, discussion, creativity, integrity, and freedom.
Leading an on-going conversation on the future of cinema and the overall audiovisual landscape.
Training young professionals and creatives who feel the urge to bring a story to life
Growing the most knowledgeable community of independent filmmakers, film critics, industry professionals, and cinephiles throughout the year.
Educating and sharing with the audiences of tomorrow.

And most importantly: YOU. Film lovers. Our audience. We strive to help you appreciate the value of being challenged, of expanding your worldview, and of being inspired. We are convinced that the remarkable films we bring to Locarno from all five continents encourage a crucial understanding between cultures and between humans. For a better future.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
TBA
Notification Date
TBA
Event Date
August 7 – 17, 2024

Early
Regular
Late

Feature Films
TBA
TBA
TBA

Short Films
TBA
TBA
TBA

Visit the Locarno Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

ScreenCraft TV Pilot Screenplay Competition - Early Deadline
2024-07-31 | N/A

ScreenCraft Virtual Pitch Competition - Regular Deadline
2024-07-31 | N/A

ScreenCraft Drama Screenplay Competition - Regular Deadline
2024-07-31 | N/A

ScreenCraft Animation & Family Screenplay Competition - Final Deadline
2024-07-31 | N/A
ABOUT THE SCREENCRAFT ANIMATION & FAMILY SCREENPLAY COMPETITION
Whether it's a heartwarming tale that brings families together or an innovative animation that pushes the boundaries of creativity, we're looking for original stories with new voices.
Semifinalists and winners will gain access to an exclusive workshop series with established screenwriters behind some of your favorite animation and family films. Learn from the best in the business to refine your craft, understand the industry, and take your storytelling to the next level. Plus, all finalists will receive a meeting with an industry professional and a workshop to help you position yourself and your writing to the industry.
Accepting a wide range of projects including:

Four quadrant features (FAMILY SWITCH, YES DAY, HOCUS POCUS)
Kid’s shows (OCTONAUTS, ADVENTURE TIME)
Animated features (INSIDE OUT, NIMONA, TROLLS, SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDERVERSE)
Family TV Shows (A SERIES OF UNFORTUNATE EVENTS, GOOD LUCK CHARLIE, PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS)
Adult animation (RICK AND MORTY, BOB’S BURGERS)
And more!

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
TBA

Early
Regular
Final

Screenplay Submission Deadline
May 31, 2024: $69.99
June 30, 2024: $69.99
July 31, 2024: $69.99

Announcements
Quarterfinalist: August 28, 2024
Semifinalist: October 2, 2024
Finalist: October 30, 2024
Winner: December 4, 2024

Visit the ScreenCraft website for information about jury members, prizes and more.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Anchorage International Film Festival - Regular Deadline
2024-07-15 | Bear Tooth Theatrepub, 1230 West 27th Avenue, Anchorage, AK, 99503, United States

Victoria Film Festival - Regular Deadline
2024-07-14 | Vic Theatre, 808 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC, V8W 2B7, Canada

Slamdance Film Festival - Early Bird Deadline
2024-07-08 | N/A

Calgary Underground Film Festival - Open For Submissions
2024-07-02 | Globe Cinema, 617 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB, T2P 1H1, Canada
Calgary, Alberta
Canada

ABOUT THE CALGARY UNDERGROUND FILM FESTIVAL
The Calgary Underground Film Festival (CUFF) is Western Canada's premiere genre festival, and one of Calgary’s most anticipated events for film fans. Recently, CUFF has been named one of The Best Horror Festivals in the World, 2022 by Dread Central, and in 2023 and 2021 was selected as one of the World’s 50 Best Genre Festivals and one of 50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee by MovieMaker Magazine.
Founded in 2003, CUFF is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to programming films that defy convention. Through the screening of contemporary works in various categories that include: feature, documentary, animation and shorts – we bring Calgarians a unique roster of films rarely seen in North American theatres. We actively look to showcase titles in all genres, from horror, sci-fi and fantasy to comedies, thrillers and music-related films. In addition to finding great films we are committed to introducing you to the people behind the lens, by showcasing local and international indie filmmakers. We are proud to contribute to Calgary's thriving arts community and are thrilled to bring innovative and challenging selections to all film enthusiasts.
GUIDELINES
1) Features films: must be a Calgary premiere, and not have screened in theatre, local festival or Canadian broadcast before our dates.
2) Short films: Priority is given to films which have not yet screened in Calgary.
3) We do not program films which were finished prior to last year's festival.
4) Films must not have been released on VOD or available to Canadian audiences.
5) If you change your screener link or password, and do not notify us on your own, it could end up not being seen. We do our best to follow up, but can not always do so.
*Free for alumni and Alberta filmmakers. Please email the festival for a waiver code if you meet either of these criteria.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
July 2, 2024
Notification Date
March 17, 2025
Event Date
April 17 - 27, 2025

Regular

Features (International)
Feb 3, 2025: $40

Features (Canadian)
Feb 3, 2025: $30

Short Films (International)
Feb 3, 2025: $20

Short Films (Canadian)
Feb 3, 2025: $15

Visit the Calgary Underground Film Festival website for more information.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Chicago International Film Festival - Late Deadline
2024-07-01 | N/A
Chicago, Illinois
United States

ABOUT THE CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The Chicago International Film Festival is North America’s longest-running competitive film festival, presented by its parent organization, Cinema/Chicago. Filmmaker and graphic artist Michael Kutza founded Cinema/Chicago in 1964 to provide an alternative to the commercial Hollywood movies that dominated the city’s theaters.
The Festival opened in 1965 at the Carnegie Theater, where King Vidor, Bette Davis, and Stanley Kramer were honored for their contributions to American cinema. Since then, the Festival has grown to become a world-renowned annual event. The Festival’s in-person tributes have honored such international luminaries as François Truffaut, Orson Welles, Sophia Loren, Rainer Werner Fassbinder, Satyajit Ray, Howard Hawks, George Cukor, Spike Lee, Lucino Visconti, Faye Dunaway, Clint Eastwood, Steven Spielberg, Quentin Tarantino, Sidney Poitier, Patrice Chéreau, Ron Howard, J.A. Bayona, Viola Davis, Bruce Dern, and Kevin Kline.
Seeking out the best in international cinema, the Festival has discovered new talents and opened windows to a world of film previously or otherwise unavailable in Chicago. Over the years, the Festival has introduced creative new directors like Martin Scorsese, Wim Wenders, Bertrand Tavernier, Margarethe von Trotta, and Krzysztof Kieslowski, among many others, to Chicago. The Festival is also dedicated to showcasing films made by filmmakers from across the state of Illinois.
Proceeds from the Festival benefit Cinema/Chicago’s programs throughout the year, including the Summer Screenings Program (May through October), CineYouth Festival (May), and year-round Education Program and Members Film Screening Series.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 16, 2024
Notification Date
September 13, 2024
Event Date
October 16 - 27, 2024
Earlybird deadline entries must be postmarked/submitted online by April 8, 2024.
Regular deadline entries must be postmarked/submitted online by June 10, 2024.
Late deadline entries must be postmarked/submitted online by July 1, 2024.

Earlybird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
April 8, 2024: $90
June 10, 2024: $100
July 1, 2024: $200

Student Film Feature Length
April 8, 2024: $40
June 10, 2024: $50
July 1, 2024: $80

Short Films
April 8, 2024: $45
June 10, 2024: $60
July 1, 2024: $80

Student Film Shorts
April 8, 2024: $20
June 10, 2024: $30
July 1, 2024: $50

Visit the Chicago International Film Festival website for more information.

ScreenCraft TV Pilot Screenplay Competition - Open For Submissions
2024-06-30 | N/A

ScreenCraft Virtual Pitch Competition - Early Deadline
2024-06-30 | N/A

ScreenCraft Drama Screenplay Competition - Early Deadline
2024-06-30 | N/A

ScreenCraft Film Fund Grant Program - Final Deadline
2024-06-30 | N/A
ABOUT THE SCREENCRAFT FILM FUND GRANT PROGRAM
With $30,000 in grant funds available, this unique grant program is designed to help fund your vision.
We consider a range of projects, from treatments to standalone screenplays, to fully-packaged projects seeking finishing funds and will choose 1 - 4 projects to fund. Grant amounts will vary depending on the scale and merit of each project.
ScreenCraft will offer production grants to talented creators for narrative features, short films, TV pilot series scripts, and documentaries that display originality, vision & exceptional potential.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
TBA

Early
Regular
Final

Submission Deadline
April 30, 2024: $59.99
May 31, 2024: $59.99
June 30, 2024: $59.99

Announcements
Quarterfinalist: July 17, 2024
Semifinalist: August 14, 2024
Finalist: September 11, 2024
Winner: October 2, 2024

Visit the ScreenCraft website for information about jury members, prizes and more.

VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

ScreenCraft Animation & Family Screenplay Competition - Regular Deadline
2024-06-30 | N/A

ScreenCraft Action & Adventure Screenplay Competition - Final Deadline
2024-06-30 | N/A
ABOUT THE SCREENCRAFT ACTION & ADVENTURE SCREENPLAY COMPETITION
Accepting TV and Feature Scripts
ScreenCraft's Action & Adventure competition has consistently led to writers signing with literary reps at companies including Bellevue Productions, Rascality Entertainment, Kersey Management, Citizen Skull, Greenlit Management and more.
So whether it’s a pressure cooker moment, a ticking clock, or saving the world from destruction, we're looking for scripts that can keep us on the edge of our seats.
We are thrilled to welcome Emmy-nominated screenwriter Joe Robert Cole, co-writer of BLACK PANTHER and BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER, as a VIP Mentor for this year’s competition.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
April 30, 2024
Announcements
Quarterfinalist: July 31, 2024
Semifinalist: August 28, 2024
Finalist: September 25, 2024
Winner: October 16, 2024

Early
Regular
Final

Screenplay Submission Deadline
April 30, 2024: $79.99
May 31, 2024: $79.99
June 30, 2024: $79.99

Visit the ScreenCraft website for information about jury members, prizes and more.

Palm Springs International Film Festival - Final Deadline
2024-06-30 | N/A
Palm Springs, California
United States

ABOUT THE PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
OUR MISSION
The Palm Springs International Film Festival is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization whose mission is to cultivate and promote the art and science of film through education and cross-cultural awareness.
OUR VISION
Palm Springs International Film Society strives for a world in which enlightenment, knowledge and tolerance prevail. We believe film as an art form has the power to bridge cultures and illuminate the universality of the human experience.
The Palm Springs International Film Society enthusiastically pursues its artistic and public service goals; to enrich, to educate, to entertain, to initiate cultural dialogue and celebrate cinematic excellence in any language. Our principle objectives encompass promoting film to an ever-widening audience as a powerful medium that inspires creativity, encourages introspection and compels exploration. The Society aims for a leadership role in providing an extensive forum for multicultural exchange in the Coachella Valley and beyond.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
April 2, 2024
Notification Date
November 8, 2024
Event Date
January 2-13, 2025

Regular
Final

Narrative & Documentary Feature Films
May 31, 2024: $75
June 30, 2024: $95

Visit the Palm Springs International Film Festival website for more information.

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Final Draft Big Break Screenwriting Contest - Extended Deadline
2024-06-28 | N/A
ABOUT THE FINAL DRAFT BIG BREAK SCREENWRITING CONTEST
Final Draft’s Big Break Screenwriting Contest is an annual, international feature film and television screenwriting contest designed to help launch the careers of aspiring writers. Writers who have entered Big Break have had their screenplays optioned, sold, and have secured high-profile representation.
Award Categories
This year we celebrate 11 Category Winners, 2 Grand Prize Winners, and a Short Script Winner. Over 60 past winners have sold scripts, received representation or gone on to professional writing careers.
- Feature Awards

Action/Adventure
Comedy/Rom-Com
Diversity
Drama
Family/Animated
Period/Historical/War
Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Thriller/Horror

- Television Awards

Diversity
Half-Hour Pilot
Hour-Long Pilot

- Short Film Award

Rules & Eligibility
Fees and Deadlines

$35.00 – Early Bird Deadline Shorts Standard Entry April 15, 2024
$75.00 – Early Bird Deadline Shorts Standard Entry + Feedback April 15, 2024
$45.00 – Early Bird Deadline Standard Entry April 15, 2024
$110.00 – Early Bird Deadline Standard Entry + Feedback April 15, 2024
$45.00 – Regular Deadline Shorts Standard Entry May 20, 2024
$85.00 – Regular Deadline Shorts Standard Entry + Feedback May 20, 2024
$65.00 – Regular Deadline Standard Entry May 20, 2024
$130.00 – Regular Deadline Standard Entry + Feedback May 20, 2024
$55.00 – Extended Deadline Shorts Standard Entry June 10, 2024
$95.00 – Extended Deadline Shorts Standard Entry + Feedback June 10, 2024
$75.00 – Extended Deadline Standard Entry June 10, 2024
$140.00 – Extended Deadline Standard Entry + Feedback June 10, 2024
$65.00 – Last Chance Deadline Shorts Standard Entry June 28, 2024
$105.00 – Last Chance Deadline Shorts Standard Entry + Feedback June 28, 2024
$85.00 – Last Chance Deadline Standard Entry June 28, 2024
$150.00 – Last Chance Deadline Standard Entry + Feedback June 28, 2024

Dates reflect deadlines for electronic submission of scripts. All entries must be electronically submitted by midnight (Pacific Time) on their respective deadlines.

Submissions

The Big Break Screenwriting Contest only accepts online entry of feature film, television, and short screenplays (original pilot scripts only – miniseries cannot be accepted).
No printed scripts will be accepted.
To enter your script electronically, you must submit your screenplay in PDF format. You are not required to use Final Draft in order to enter the Contest.
All submissions should consist of: – Full-length screenplays (approximately 80 to 120 pages); – Teleplays (hour-long approximately 40 to 70 pages, half hour approximately 20 to 35 pages); – Short script screenplays (maximum 20 pages).
Any entries over 150 pages WILL BE DISQUALIFIED. For feature and teleplay, entries less than 20 pages that are clearly not a screenplay (comic books, etc.) will also be disqualified.
All necessary information is captured upon entry of digital submissions, so title pages should be removed or contact information must be deleted from the title page. The title of the script will be provided to the reader as part of the file name and in the judging form.
Do NOT include personally identifying information (name, etc.) ANYWHERE in your script as this will result in INSTANT DISQUALIFICATION. This includes: – Writers name, WGA or representation info on the title page; – Writers name on ANY page of the script; – Writers name within the script’s file name.
Entry should consist of a screenplay, teleplay, or short script only. Do not include resumes, pitches, synopses, casting suggestions, letters, or other supporting documentation with your submission. Judges will not receive these materials.
The exception is original hour-long and half-hour TV entries, which may include standard supplementary materials, such as lists of recurring characters and future episodes, as part of the screenplay. This information would need to be included within the same file, at the end of the script.
Entrants who select to receive feedback on their screenplay will be given at least 550 words of assessment from a competition reader. Feedback will be automatically emailed to entrants upon its completion.

Contest Announcement Dates

August 23, 2024 (Quarterfinalists)
September 20, 2024 (Semifinalists)
October 11, 2024 (Finalists)
November 1, 2024 (Category Winners)
December 4, 2024 (Grand Prize Winners)

Eligibility

The Big Break Contest is open to any individual who is 18 years of age or older at the date of entry and has access to the Internet.
Employees, officers, directors, contractors and agents, and their immediate families and household members regardless of where they live, or members of the same households (whether related or not) of Cast & Crew Production Software, dba Final Draft and its respective divisions, affiliates, subsidiaries, agents, Big Break Contest sponsors, and advertising agencies (collectively, the “contest providers”), are not eligible to participate in the Contest or to win any prize.
Screenplays under option at the time of submission are not eligible.
Adaptations are not eligible unless the source material was written by the screenwriter of the entry in question. Scripts are not eligible if the source material has been sold, produced, or is currently under option to any third party.
Grand Prize winners in Features and TV, category winners, and Short Script Award winners are not eligible to re-enter their winning scripts in future Big Break Contests. They are, however, eligible to enter different scripts for consideration. Grand Prize Feature and TV winners, as well as category winners, receive a free entry in the 2024 Big Break Contest as part of their 2023 prize package.

Visit the Final Draft Big Break Screenwriting Contest website for more information, including multiple entries, co-writers & prize division, revisions, refunds & resubmissions, prize conditions, ownership and industry releases, and general provisions.

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Hawaii International Film Festival - Late Deadline
2024-06-21 | N/A
Honolulu, Hawaii
United States

ABOUT THE HAWAII INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
HIFF's MISSION
As the vanguard forum of international cinematic achievement in the Asia-Pacific region, Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF) endeavors to recognize new and emerging talent, promote career development and original collaborations through innovative education programs, and facilitate dynamic cultural exchange through the cinema arts.
HIFF started as a project of the East-West Center, an educational and research institution created by U.S. Congress and located on the University of Hawai’i Manoa campus in Honolulu. Jeannette Paulson Hereniko was HIFF’s Founding Director, from 1981 to 1996. In 1981, HIFF’s inaugural year, the program consisted of seven films from six countries which were viewed by an audience of 5,000.
HIFF has become a premiere cinematic event in the Pacific and annually attracts more than 50,000 film enthusiasts from around the state, the nation and throughout the world. It is one of the premier film festivals in the United States and the only festival spread across an archipelago.
HIFF annually presents a series of prizes for established and emerging filmmakers at its annual Awards Gala. In addition to its main competitions, the festival also honors filmmakers for special accomplishments and contributions to cinema culture.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
January 9, 2024
Notification Date
August 30, 2024
Event Date
October 2 - 13, 2024

Earlybird
Regular
Late

Feature Films
Feb 16, 2024: $55
Apr 26, 2024: $65
June 21, 2024: $75

Short Films
Feb 16, 2024: $45
Apr 26, 2024: $55
June 21, 2024: $65

Pacific Islander Showcase Features/Shorts
Feb 16, 2024: $35
Apr 26, 2024: $35
June 21, 2024: $35

Made in Hawaii Features/Shorts
Feb 16, 2024: $25
Apr 26, 2024: $25
June 21, 2024: $25

Visit the Hawaii International Film Festival website for more information.

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Dances With Films
2024-06-20 - 2024-06-30 | TCL Chinese 6 Theatres, 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA, 90028, United States
Hollywood, California
United States

ABOUT DANCES WITH FILMS
Defiantly Independent Since 1998
Since 1998 DANCES WITH FILMS has grown from presenting a handful of films to more than 200 each year… from narrative features and shorts to include the top documentaries, music videos tv & web on the circuit today. In 2007 DWF brought new commitment to the indie world with the advent of the 2 Minute, 2 Step Short Film Challenge where we actually shoot 10 films during the festival and present them to enthusiastic audiences. In 2012 the festival moved to its current location – the famed Chinese Theatre in the heart of Hollywood. From there it has expanded to 11 days with ever increasing sold out theatres.
Our Mission
DANCES WITH FILMS (DWF:LA), champions the unflinching spirit at the very core of the independent film scene. While the vast majority of film fests rely heavily on celebrity, we have relied on the innovation, talent, creativity and sweat equity that revolutionized the entertainment industry. And that reliance continues to prove successful with alumni moving on to write, direct and produce celebrity-studded vehicles, star in blockbuster movies and television series, produce multi-million dollar films and create hit TV shows. Oh…. and we even have several OSCAR® nominees… In a world of homogenized, formulaic film festivals, DWF:LA continues to defy the rules.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
November 27, 2023
Notification Date
May 3, 2024
Event Date
June 20 - 30, 2024

Early
Standard
Late
Extended

Feature Films
Jan 12, 2024: $65
Feb 12, 2024: $75
Mar 15, 2024: $85
Apr 5, 2024: $105

Short Films
Jan 12, 2024: $45
Feb 12, 2024: $55
Mar 15, 2024: $65
Apr 5, 2024: $85

Visit the Dances With Films website for more information.

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Raindance Film Festival
2024-06-19 - 2024-06-28 | N/A
London, England

ABOUT THE RAINDANCE FILM FESTIVAL
Discover. Be Discovered.
Raindance Film Festival is the largest independent film festival in the UK. Holding the 32nd festival in 2024, Raindance is based in the heart of London’s buzzing West End film district. Raindance Film Festival is officially recognised by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences USA, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts and the British Independent Film Awards. Selected shorts will qualify for Oscar® and BAFTA considerations.
Festival Sections:

World-renowned programme of the best UK and international independent films
House of Raindance – talks and panels
Raindance VRX programme for virtual reality and new media
Networking events

Raindance Jury Awards

Best Documentary Feature
Best International Feature
Best UK Feature
Best UK Director
Best UK Performance
Best UK Cinematography
Elisar Cabrera Discovery Award for Debut Feature
Discovery Award Director
Discovery Award Performance
Best Documentary Short
Best Animated Short
Short of the Festival
Raindance Icon Award
Raindance Immersive Awards

Each year, Raindance attracts 16,000 visitors including 500 industry professionals into London.

DEADLINES & FEES
Opening Submission Date
TBA
Notification Date
TBA
Event Date
June 19 - 28, 2024

Early
Regular
Late

Feature Films
TBA
TBA
TBA

Short Films
TBA
TBA
TBA

Visit the Raindance Film Festival website for more information.

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