The Nashville Film Festival Screenwriting Competition began in 2014 with a mission to embrace new voices, creativity and a passion for innovative storytelling. Going into its 10th year, the competition features several categories including, drama, comedy, horror and genre features in addition to short competition, 30 minute and 60 minute pilots. To round it out, the Nashville Film Festival Screenwriting Competition offers a special category award to a Tennessee Writer. Entries for the Nashville Film Festival Screenwriting Competition are now open (see deadlines and submission info below).
The 55th Nashville Film Festival will take place September 19 – 25, 2024.
Submit via Filmfreeway or Coverfly:
Category winners will receive a personalized NashFilm award and a cash prize based on their category of entry.
Feature Scripts Awards:
Drama Award $500
Genre Award $500
Comedy Award $1000
Horror Award $1000
Pilot Script Awards:
30 Minute Pilot Award: $500
60 Minute Pilot Award: $1000
Short Film Script Award $500
Tennessee Writer Award $500
Scripts from the quarterfinalist level up are hosted on a website for access by industry professionals. Semifinalists will be entitled to purchase a badge at preferred rate. Attending finalists are treated to a table read scene from their screenplay performed by a cast of professional actors and they will receive a complimentary festival badge. Category winners are determined by an all industry jury that includes active producers and literary representatives.
Entry Deadlines / Notifications:
Open for Entries: December 6, 2023
Early Bird Deadline: January 15, 2024
Regular Deadline: March 17, 2024
Late Deadline: April 21, 2024
Extended (FINAL) Deadline: May 19, 2024