There are a number of horror screenwriting competitions out there, and if you’re a fan of the genre, it can be a great way to get your work seen by industry professionals. Here are a few of the top competitions to check out:
1. The Script Pipeline Screenwriting Competition
Founded in 2001, The Script Pipeline Screenwriting Competition is one of the most respected screenwriting competitions out there. They take pride in their ability to help talented writers get their work seen by industry professionals, with over 90% of their winners getting representation or working on produced films and TV shows. They offer a number of great services to writers, including weekly insight emails with tips on getting your script read and working with agents. They also have a development team that offers feedback on the finalists’ scripts. The winner is promised an introduction to a manager or agent for future projects.
2. Final Draft Big Break Screenwriting Competition
The Final Draft Big Break Competition was launched in 2006 to provide aspiring writers with the chance to break into the industry. Final Draft, an acclaimed screenwriting software company, is one of the contest sponsors. The winner receives over $100,000 worth of prizes including a trip to L.A., 10 years’ worth of Final Draft software and more. An agent or manager is guaranteed for the winner, and over 70 finalists receive industry feedback.
3. Page International Screenwriting Awards
One of the top competitions out there, The Page International Screenwriting Awards are known to help writers make connections in the literary community. They also hold annual conferences where award-winning authors are highlighted. The competition is judged by some notable writers and industry professionals, including Michael Hauge, Christopher Vogler and more. The winner receives a prize package worth over $5,000, which includes a trip to the awards ceremony.
4. Hollyshorts Screenwriting Competition
The Hollyshorts Screenwriting Competition is one of the most notable screenwriting competitions for short films. It launched in 2006 and has helped hundreds of writers launch their careers. Winners receive prizes such as distribution, cash and more. The winners are showcased at the annual Hollyshorts Film Festival, which attracts some big names in the industry.
5. PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
One of the top competitions out there, The Page International Screenwriting Awards are known to help writers make connections in the literary community. They also hold annual conferences where award-winning authors are highlighted. The competition is judged by some notable writers and industry professionals, including Michael Hauge, Christopher Vogler and more. The winner receives a prize package worth over $5,000, which includes a trip to the awards ceremony.
6. Horror Screenplay Contest
Sponsored by the California Film Foundation and ScreenCraft, this contest is open to any horror genre screenplay of feature length or longer. The winner receives many great prizes including a trip to Los Angeles and $1,000 cash prize. Semi-finalists and finalists also receive professional feedback from industry professionals.
7. ScreenCraft Horror Screenwriting Fellowship
Launched in 2016, the ScreenCraft Horror Screenwriting Fellowship is a new and unique opportunity for horror writers. The winner receives a $2,500 cash prize, as well as a trip to Los Angeles to meet with industry professionals. The fellow also receives year-round mentorship from ScreenCraft staff.
8. BlueCat Screenplay Competition
The BlueCat Screenplay Competition is one of the most respected screenplay competitions in the world. Founded by award-winning writer Gordy Hoffman, the competition is judged by some of the biggest names in the industry. Winners receive cash prizes, script notes and more.
9. International Horror & Sci-Fi Film Festival
The International Horror & Sci-Fi Film Festival encourages writers to submit their scripts for consideration. The competition winner receives prizes worth over $5000, including a trip to the festival in Tempe, AZ. This is a great opportunity for winning screenwriters as it promises industry exposure.
10. Women in Film Finishing Fund
The Women in Film Finishing Fund is a great opportunity for female screenwriters. The winner receives a cash prize and access to the post-production facilities of the Women In Film organization. This is a great opportunity to get your screenplay ready for market.
The horror screenwriting contests listed above are the best of the best and can help you get your screenplay ready for production. From feedback to post-production, these opportunities will take your writing skills to another level.
Do you have any horror screenplays that you would like to submit? Be sure to enter these competitions and see if you can be the next big horror writer!