BFF Script Lab!

The Breakthroughs Short Film Script Lab is designed to support emerging women, trans-masculine and non-binary Canadian filmmakers in developing their first short film projects. The pilot program will provide a combination of script development, casting, actor workshop and practical production guidance. Through a table read with actors, feedback from story editors and Breakthroughs staff, participants will refine their scripts, talent directing skills and grant applications.

Priority will be given to first-time directors with some industry experience.

Successful applicants must be able to attend an in-person open-to-the-public table read in Toronto in early August (Date TBC). Other dates to keep in mind:

Applications close on June 10th. Selected participants will be notified by email by June 24th.

Submit your application

  • The program starts in June and will run until August. Casting and table read will take place in August.

  • Sessions will be remote, but table read will be in person in Toronto. Applicants must be able to attend in-person table read. 

  • Yes. However, both must be a woman, non-binary or trans-masculine artist.

  • When submitting your application, we request a visual treatment. We want to understand what your creative vision for the project is. You are welcome to explore what this means to you! You do not need to create an elaborate pitch deck, but we would appreciate some visual examples. You can see some examples of a visual treatment in our Resources page.

    • A new draft of the script submitting with application;

    • Character descriptions for casting call;

    • Shot list or story board;

    • Case study;

    • A completed feedback form.

Questions? Email us at info@breakthroughsfilmfestival.com.