Thank you to all who submitted their screenplays to the 2025 Phoenix Film Festival Short Screenplay Competition.
We are very excited to announce this year's winners!
FIRST PLACE
KODACHROME
BY KARLA S. BRYANT
After his mother's death, a middle-aged struggling artist finds an old photograph that holds a well-kept secret. His decision whether or not to tell his successful sister will determine his future path.
SECOND PLACE
LAST STAND AT BUTTE CITY
BY NATALIE SCHWAN
In 1880 Montana, a new railroad threatens aging, lone rancher Charlotte’s way of life, forcing her to face the past traumas that bind her to the land.
THIRD PLACE
FIGHTER
BY TOY LEI AND ELANA PISANI
In a galaxy on the brink of war, a shell-shocked star pilot fights terrifying confusion, trauma-induced amnesia and survivor's guilt to reach the place in her brain where the code that is the key to saving her planet is embedded.
FINALISTS
(In alphabetical order by last name)
THE LAST ROBBERY
BY VLAD AKSENOV AND SCOTT GIST
Lorenzo, a former bank robber, wants a loan from the bank to buy a cemetery plot for himself. Banker has some questions.
CHAPTER ONE
BY KARSON YEE
Two book-obsessed strangers clash over a library book, leading to a petty rivalry filled with stolen checkouts, sarcastic notes, and… unexpected flirtation?