PitchX Script Competition – Brixton Film Festival 2025
Your story could be the one that lights up the big screen.
PitchX is back — and we’re looking for scripts that pulse with creativity, energy, and a voice rooted in Lambeth. Whether your story is set on the streets of Brixton, the markets of Stockwell, or the heart of Streatham, this is your chance to see it made and premiered at Brixton Film Festival 2025.
Deadline
🗓 Deadline: 26th August 2025
📍 Eligibility:
Lambeth residents or those with a genuine link to the borough
📄 Format:
Industry-standard screenplay format
🏆 Prize:
Your film produced & screened at Brixton Film Festival 2025
Why Enter PitchX?
Because nothing beats seeing your story come alive. The winner will work with a professional production team to bring their script from page to screen — and watch it premiere in front of a buzzing festival audience.
Competition Rules & Guidelines
Before entering the competition, please read the following rules and guidelines. Submissions which do not adhere to these regulations may be disqualified.
Although we love shows and genres like Top Boy, we feel these have be covered in earnest! We are after a varied number of different perspectives, so please, no drugs, violence, gangster or anti-social themes!
All entries must be in English.
Brixton Film Festival employees and immediate family members are ineligible to enter.
Scripts must be the original work of the writer(s), who must have full legal ownership of the material and permission to enter.
To ensure anonymity, scripts must not include the writer(s) name on the cover page — only the title of the script.
There is no limit to the number of entries per author, but each entry requires a separate entry
All submissions must be electronic only.
Film scripts should not exceed 20 pages
All entry fees are non-refundable.
Feedback is only provided if purchased at submission.
All scripts must be PDF format, Courier font, size 12, and adhere to industry standard formatting.
Co-writers are allowed, and all names must be submitted at the time of entry.
Deadlines close at 11:59 PM GMT without exception.
Bibles for pilots/series are not to be included and will not be read.
Judging decisions are final.
Prizes are awarded to the script; for co-written works, prize division is the writers’ responsibility.
By submitting, winners and finalists agree to their name, script title, and image being used for marketing by Brixton Film Festival and affiliates.
The Brixton Film Festival claims no ownership of submitted entries; all rights remain with the original holder(s).
Entrants must have full permission from any co-writers or attached parties before submission.
Whilst the rights to the script remain with the writer, the final finished film remains the property of The Brixton Film Festival.
Resources:
Here are some free resources to help you formulate your scripts
1. Celtx: This software offers a comprehensive suite of tools for screenwriting, storyboarding, and production planning, making it a great choice for filmmakers. Celtx offers a free version with limited features.
2. WriterDuet: Known for its user-friendly interface and real-time collaboration features, WriterDuet allows writers to work together seamlessly. It offers a free demo mode with limitations on the number of projects.
3. Trelby: An open-source option, Trelby focuses on simplicity and ease of use, with features like correct script formatting, auto-completion, and a character name database. It's available for Windows and Linux.
4. Arc Studio Pro: This software provides a free browser version with professional features, including real-time collaboration and cloud storage. It also offers an outlining tool for story development.
5. Highland 1 / Highland 2: is another free option, especially useful for those who prefer a minimalist writing experience. It has a free demo mode with some limitations but offers a solid set of features.
6. SoCreate: This software stands out for its focus on visualization and creative storytelling, abstracting away the traditional script format. It offers automatic, one-click export to industry-standard format.
7. StudioBinder: StudioBinder's free screenwriting software combines writing with production tools, allowing for a seamless workflow from concept to production.
Those are just a few examples and many other free screenwriting software options are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Exploring different options will help you find the best fit for your individual writing style and project needs.
And a few more essentials:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/writers/resources/scriptwriting-essentials
https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/how-to-write-a-screenplay/
https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/screenwriting-tips-for-aspiring-storytellers/
How to Submit
Prepare your script in standard industry format.
Save as PDF.
Submit via our official portal below:
For more information, head to https://www.thebrixtonfilmfestival.co.uk
Credits:
Created with an image by Diuly Lovatto - "Sepia clapperboard"