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THE HUNT BEGINS FOR TOMORROW’S AWARD-WINNING SCREENWRITERS

THURSDAY 22nd JANUARY 2026

YOUR STORY ON THE BIG SCREEN

Building on the success of our Script to Screen Award, we have now joined forces with 1st FEATURES and together we are excited to introduce a new Award –

THE PITCH TO SCREEN AWARD

  • The Award is for a short film script (maximum 10 pages).
  • The winning script will be optioned for a nominal fee by 1st Features. 
  • 1st Features will work with you as your Production Company with full intent to raise funding and produce the film. In the course of doing so they will provide- 
  • Mentoring 
  • Script development
  • Budgeting and scheduling 
  • Production services 
  • Post-production supervision
  • Festival strategy 
  • Exploring further distribution opportunities.

“1st Features was founded to nurture and support filmmakers on their journey from shorts to features, which is an ethos we bring with us to this prize” Simon Darkman 1st Features.

RULES AND GUIDELINES

  • Script max 10 pages
  • Ideal budget: £10-15K
  • There can be a producer or director attached already, provided they are open  to co-producing with 1st Features
  • Decision on the final cut will be 1st Features
  • Pitch deck and Moodboard should be included with your pitch 
  • Closing date for submissions 30th April 2026
  • SIX FINALISTS will be announced on 15th May 2026
  • Finalists will then be invited to a complimentary pitching workshop with My Smash Media at KIFF 2026 on Friday 5th June. The My Smash team will work with you to refine your pitches.
  • The finalists will then pitch live to an industry panel later in the day. The winning pitch to be announced at KIFF Gala Awards Ceremony Sunday 6th June.

SUBMISSIONS and FEES

  • Submissions open 22nd January 2026
  • Submit through My Smash Media on LINK
  • Earlybird deadline 19th February 2026 – Fee £15
  • Regular Deadline 2nd April 2026 – Fee £20
  • Final Deadline 30th April 2026 – Fee £25
  • Please pay submission fees using this QR CODE 

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On the payment page please put your name and script title in the description box

If you have any queries or need assistance, please contact Shirley@blueelephantfilms.com