Best Short Script Prize 2026: Open for Entries
The Women Over 50 Film Festival’s Best Short Script Prize, in partnership with Shedunnit Productions, is open for entries. Now in its eighth year, the prize is open to writers at any stage of their career.
Eight years partnering with Shedunnit Productions
We’re delighted to welcome Shedunnit Productions back as sponsor of the Best Short Script Prize for the eighth consecutive year. It’s a partnership that has grown with the Festival — and one that has directly shaped the careers of writers over the years.
Helen Jacey, author, story consultant and founder of Shedunnit Productions, explains why the partnership with WOFFF is so important:
“It’s wonderful to be sponsoring the WOFFF Best Short Script Prize for the eighth time.
“On behalf of the judges, we can’t wait to discover the amazing stories that writers submit, whether you are passionate about representing older women, or are part of a creative team with older women.
“Recognition for storytelling talent is so valuable at any stage of your career, and we are delighted that being shortlisted or winning the Prize has helped many writers gain traction, find creative partners and get their scripts made!
WOFFF founder Nuala O’Sullivan adds:
“Helen’s commitment to the Best Short Script Prize over eight years has been extraordinary. She brings her expertise and generosity to the Festival and every writer we work with. We’re proud that this partnership continues, and we’re looking forward to reading the short scripts we receive this year.”
Important details
Submit your short script to the Women Over 50 Film Festival this year via our FilmFreeway page, where you’ll also find detailed guidelines. The key information is below:
- Regular deadline: 26 April 2026 – £14 per entry
- Late deadline: 22 June 2026 – £16 per entry
- Student submissions before 22 June 2026: free
- The competition closes when 50 scripts have been received even if that is before the deadline – so don’t wait!
Is your script eligible?
All scripts submitted to the WOFFF and Shedunnit Best Short Script Prize must be:
- An original, unproduced short drama screenplay
- Up to 5 filming minutes (maximum 7 pages, including title page)
- Written in English
- Either featuring a woman over 50 as the central character, or written by a woman over 50
- Submitted by a writer aged 18 or over
You can submit more than one script if you’d like to, you’ll need to submit each one separately. Full terms and conditions are on our FilmFreeway page.
What the judges look for
Helen Jacey is a story consultant and author of The Woman in the Story: Writing Memorable Female Characters (Michael Wiese Productions).
She has worked with writers internationally across all stages of their careers and leads the judging panel for the WOFFF and Sheddunit Best Short Script competition.
Helen looks for:
- A complex, memorable character
- A powerful, thought-provoking concept
- Vitality in the writer’s voice
- A sense of momentum in the storytelling
She adds: “Over the years, the judges and I have been astounded by the quality of writing and the range of imaginations on show, from writers all over the world. Writing a short script sounds easy, but it’s not. Less is certainly more: the focus, the sharp writing, the strong concept, and above all, a brilliant, memorable character.”
The prize for the winning scriptwriter includes a one-to-one script consultation with Helen.
To find out more and to submit your script visit our FilmFreeway page today!
