1. Submitted scripts must be original screenplays, and the sole property of the applicant(s). Screenplays submitted must not have been previously sold or produced. Adapted or based on screenplays are also accepted. It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to register their screenplay and secure clearance from the copyright holders of any copyrighted materials included within the submitted screenplay. All entrants retain complete and exclusive rights to their work. The winner/s will retain complete rights to their work once the film has been made and screened at the FILM EXPO SOUTH Preview.
2. All ages are eligible, and you can submit from any country.
3. Script Entries only via FilmFreeway https://filmfreeway.com/FilmExpoSouth
4. Scripts co-written are allowed.
5. Only Comedy, Drama, Horror/Thriller and Children/Family genres accepted. of a Christmas Theme, no animation or documentary is allowed and all entries must be in English. Pornographic, defamatory or racist scripts will NOT be accepted.
6. We accept screenplays between 5 and 12 pages in length, NOT including the title page. This will create a film that’s up to 15 minutes including credits. Any script that exceeds this length will be disqualified.
7. There is no limit to the number of screenplays you may submit. Each entry will require a separate entry form and a separate fee.
8. All entries must be uploaded in PDF format to FilmFreeway. Entries must be received on or before the deadline and submission fee payment must be made in full at the time of submission. Entry fees (including services fees) are non-refundable.
9. All screenplays must be written in industry standard format (Courier 12 pt font). (BBC Writers Room provide good examples https://www.bbc.co.uk/writersroom/resources/medium-and-format ) Any script not in this format will automatically be disqualified. DO NOT include any imagery in the script as this will also disqualify your entry.
10. Winning Screenplay will be filmed in Wimborne, Dorset on location.
11. FILM EXPO SOUTH and the Film Offices can assist with Crew and Cast.
12. The winning Script will be filmed over a 3/4 day period therefore, please note this is a low budget production so please avoid a big cast, special effects and lots of locations.
13. Should you re-submit corrected pages or a new draft, please note that you would need to pay an additional fee.
14. Judges of our competition, are NOT eligible to enter.
15. By entering the FILMEXPOSOUTH Short Film Script Competition, you agree to all the rules listed. Regardless of your status (winner or nominee), please note that your script, logline and contact information may be shared with our partners and sponsors, and by submitting you agree with that. You also agree to release and hold harmless FILM EXPO SOUTH LTD and its subsidiary, parent and affiliated companies from and against any and all claims, expenses, and liability, including but not limited to damages and negligence to property and persons, including but not limited to invasion of privacy, defamation, slander, libel, violation of right of publicity, copyright, infringement of trademark or other intellectual property rights relating to a participant’s entry, participation in the contest and/or acceptance or use or misuse of the prize.
16. All entries are charged at £45 per submitted script.
17. All entry fees will go towards the making of the films.
18. All entries will be provided with feedback. No correspondence will be entered into.
19. The winning writer will be named in the credits at the end of their film.
20. The winning film will be listed on imdb.com providing the writer with a listed credit.
21. NOTIFICATIONS
- Not Selected Announcement Date: 20th February 2025
- Quarter-Finalist Announcement Date: 20th February 2025
- Semi-Finalist Announcement Date: 12th March 2025
- Finalist Announcement Date: 26th March 2025
- Winners will be announced at Event on April 4th, 2025
The FILMEXPOSOUTH Short Film Script Competition 2024 Winner/s will be announced on 4th April 2025 at the Allendale Community Centre.
This is a NOT FOR PROFIT FESTIVAL and all submission fees will be put towards making the winning films.