Eligibility:
We accept submissions for short films only — live action, animation, documentary, or experimental. Features, pilots, and web series are not eligible.
Script length:
Submissions must be between 2–30 pages. Scripts must be uploaded in PDF format, properly formatted to industry standards (12-point Courier). Only the script title should appear on the cover page.
Language:
All scripts must be written in English. Finished films may be produced in any language, but must include English subtitles.
Global submissions:
We welcome writers from all countries.
Authorship:
Submissions must be the writer’s original work, or the entrant must hold the copyright. Writing teams are welcome, but all writers must consent to the submission.
Directors:
Writers who wish to direct their own script, including first-time directors, will be considered. A portfolio may be requested if the script advances to the Semi-Finalist stage or above.
Age:
All applicants must be 18 years of age or older at the time of submission.
Prior submissions:
Scripts previously submitted to other contests or development programs may be submitted. However, projects that have already won a production proposal through Vilpa Films are ineligible.
Professional earnings:
Entrants must not have earned more than $50,000 in screenwriting fees in the past 18 months. This ensures KOVERAGE focuses on supporting emerging talent.
Multiple submissions:
Writers may submit as many scripts as they wish. Each script requires a separate submission fee. Discounts for multiple submissions may be available.
Resubmissions:
Writers may submit new drafts of previously entered scripts at a reduced resubmission fee (details available upon request).
Selection & Judging:
Submissions will be evaluated by Vilpa Films’ industry readers, mentors, and producers. Winners and finalists will be determined at Vilpa Films’ sole discretion, and all decisions are final.
Prizes & Proposals:
Selected writers will receive feedback, consultation, and the possibility of a production proposal. Winning scripts will be developed and filmed in Prague with Vilpa Films leading the production. If a project moves forward, Vilpa Films will negotiate production terms directly with the winning writer(s).
Credits & Promotion:
By submitting, applicants consent to allow Vilpa Films to announce results and promote the winners using their name, script title, and related materials. Any produced projects will include the Vilpa Films logo in end credits and promotional materials.
Rights:
The winning writer(s) retain ownership of their script unless a formal production agreement is signed with Vilpa Films.
Timing:
Vilpa Films is flexible on production timelines, but projects that do not advance into pre-production within 12 months of announcement may forfeit eligibility for the production proposal.
Industry circulation:
Finalists and winners agree that their scripts may be circulated by Vilpa Films to select industry members (producers, managers, agents) as part of the program’s promotional benefits.
Disclaimer:
Participation in the call does not create an employment relationship, financial entitlement, or guarantee of distribution/production unless expressly agreed upon in writing between the artist and Vilpa Films. Vilpa Films is not obligated to produce the script if no agreement is reached with the artist regarding the creative basis and production guidelines.
Writers/authors receiving notes for improvement as part of the development process must revise and improve their script as a condition of moving forward in production consideration. Failure to comply may result in the project being withdrawn from consideration.
