Have what it takes to make a short horror film in 48 hours?
The Richmond Film Network Screenwriters’ Lab is a forum dedicated to the art and craft of screenwriting. Designed for writers at every stage of development, the Lab provides a rigorous yet supportive environment where work is examined through multiple perspectives and constructive critique. Emphasis is placed on core elements of the craft—structure, character, dialogue, tone, and overall narrative impact.
Writers submit scripts to receive candid, in-depth feedback from engaged peers, while Critics strengthen their own analytical skills by offering thoughtful, actionable notes that sharpen the work under review. Observers benefit from direct exposure to the critique process, gaining tools and insights that prepare them for active participation in future sessions.
By engaging in these complementary roles, all participants—writer, critic, and observer—develop a deeper command of storytelling while contributing to a dynamic, collaborative community committed to elevating the quality of screenwriting in Richmond and beyond.
JOIN THE RFN SCREENWRITERS’ LAB
October scripts:
Ready… Set… SHOOT!
Filmmakers from Richmond and beyond took up the challenge to write, shoot, and edit a short film in just 48 hours. Now you get the chance to be the first to see their cinematic magic at the World Premiere Screenings of the Richmond 48 Hour HORROR Film Project!
Be part of the excitement! Each screening features a Q&A with the filmmakers and an opportunity to vote for your Audience Favorite! Voting is quick and easy with a QR code—just bring a mobile device and a gmail account to cast your vote and make your voice heard.
🎟️ Tickets:
$15 in advance (online only) through October 18
$18 day of event (online or at the door while they last) October 19
Don't wait! These screenings WILL sell out!
SCREENING GROUP A (in alphabetical order):
Berlin Based
Egregore Production House
Hampden-Sydney Filmmaking Club
MB Productions
Motley Picture Group
Restless Dream Syndrome
Rosado Film
Shadow Moses
Son of a Fritz
Tater Tot Films
Tiney Horror Picture Show
WTF Studio
Films are not rated and may contain mature content or language. Parental guidance recommended.
Arrive early! Give yourself time to park, check in, grab concessions, and get settled. The show starts promptly at 12PM, and we expect a full house!
Which film will rise above the rest? Your favorite could go on to win Best of Richmond, compete at Filmapalooza in Lisbon, Portugal in March 2026, and even have a shot at screening at the legendary Cannes Film Festival!
Feeling sick? Please stay home—we’ll miss you, but let’s keep everyone safe.
Sorry, no refunds.
Ready… Set… SHOOT!
Filmmakers from Richmond and beyond took up the challenge to write, shoot, and edit a short film in just 48 hours. Now you get the chance to be the first to see their cinematic magic at the World Premiere Screenings of the Richmond 48 Hour Horror Film Project!
Be part of the excitement! Each screening features a Q&A with the filmmakers and an opportunity to vote for your Audience Favorite! Voting is quick and easy with a QR code—just bring a mobile device and a gmail account to cast your vote and make your voice heard.
🎟️ Tickets:
$15 in advance (online only) through October 18
$18 day of event (online or at the door while they last)
Don't wait! These screenings WILL sell out!
SCREENING GROUP B (in alphabetical order):
Black Lotus
Department 560 Statewide
Fourth Floor Films
Frisco Balloon Co.
Green Light Films
Monster Tooth Productions
Polka Dot Pooch Productions
Skeleton Crew
SlateGirl Productions
The Phantom Players
The State Werx
Truly Sin
Films are not rated and may contain mature content or language.
Arrive early! Give yourself time to park, check in, grab concessions, and get settled. The show starts promptly at 2:30PM, and we expect a full house!
Which film will rise above the rest? Your favorite could go on to win Best of Richmond, compete at Filmapalooza in Lisbon, Portugal in March 2026, and even have a shot at screening at the legendary Cannes Film Festival!
Feeling sick? Please stay home—we’ll miss you, but let’s keep everyone safe.
Sorry, no refunds.
Ready… Set… SHOOT!
Filmmakers from Richmond and beyond took up the challenge to write, shoot, and edit a short film in just 48 hours. Now you get the chance to be the first to see their cinematic magic at the World Premiere Screenings of the Richmond 48 Hour Horror Film Project!
Be part of the excitement! Each screening features a Q&A with the filmmakers and an opportunity to vote for your Audience Favorite! Voting is quick and easy with a QR code—just bring a mobile device and a gmail account to cast your vote and make your voice heard.
🎟️ Tickets:
$15 in advance (online only) through October 18
$18 day of event (online or at the door while they last)
Don't wait! These screenings WILL sell out!
SCREENING GROUP C (in alphabetical order):
Heavy is the Head...
Albatross
Blue Dragon Films
Bow Tie Boys Productions
Cyanide Squirrel Films
Derek's Your Uncle
House of Avan
noh KEI Productions
Saffsky Picture Co.
Slaughterhouse Media
The Little Lebowski Urban Achievers
Films are not rated and may contain mature content or language.
Arrive early! Give yourself time to park, check in, grab concessions, and get settled. The show starts promptly at 5PM, and we expect a full house!
Which film will rise above the rest? Your favorite could go on to win Best of Richmond, compete at Filmapalooza in Lisbon, Portugal in March 2026, and even have a shot at screening at the legendary Cannes Film Festival!
Feeling sick? Please stay home—we’ll miss you, but let’s keep everyone safe.
Sorry, no refunds.
See the films again in this encore screening of the top films as determined by judges, followed by the awards ceremony. Find out which film wins Best RVA Horror Film, Audience Choice, and many other awards including Best Cinematography, Best Editing, and Best Writing! The winner screens at the grand finale Filmapalooza in Lisbon, Portugal in March 2026!
TICKETS $15 in advance, $18 day of show.
RFN Indie Fest offers an immersive, day-long event featuring the best in independent cinema. Each fest includes two curated short film blocks as well as a feature presentation, showcasing innovative films from local to international creators. Our lineup is crafted for the true cinephile—films that go beyond mainstream offerings and engage in fresh storytelling, daring themes, and visual eye candy. In addition to screenings, RFN Indie Fest offers dynamic sessions such as live table reads, panel discussions, and filmmaker workshops, designed to entertain, inspire and inform.
The Richmond Film Network Screenwriters’ Lab is a forum dedicated to the art and craft of screenwriting. Designed for writers at every stage of development, the Lab provides a rigorous yet supportive environment where work is examined through multiple perspectives and constructive critique. Emphasis is placed on core elements of the craft—structure, character, dialogue, tone, and overall narrative impact.
Writers submit scripts to receive candid, in-depth feedback from engaged peers, while Critics strengthen their own analytical skills by offering thoughtful, actionable notes that sharpen the work under review. Observers benefit from direct exposure to the critique process, gaining tools and insights that prepare them for active participation in future sessions.
By engaging in these complementary roles, all participants—writer, critic, and observer—develop a deeper command of storytelling while contributing to a dynamic, collaborative community committed to elevating the quality of screenwriting in Richmond and beyond.
JOIN THE RFN SCREENWRITERS’ LAB
November scripts:
The Richmond Film Network Screenwriters’ Lab is a forum dedicated to the art and craft of screenwriting. Designed for writers at every stage of development, the Lab provides a rigorous yet supportive environment where work is examined through multiple perspectives and constructive critique. Emphasis is placed on core elements of the craft—structure, character, dialogue, tone, and overall narrative impact.
Writers submit scripts to receive candid, in-depth feedback from engaged peers, while Critics strengthen their own analytical skills by offering thoughtful, actionable notes that sharpen the work under review. Observers benefit from direct exposure to the critique process, gaining tools and insights that prepare them for active participation in future sessions.
By engaging in these complementary roles, all participants—writer, critic, and observer—develop a deeper command of storytelling while contributing to a dynamic, collaborative community committed to elevating the quality of screenwriting in Richmond and beyond.
JOIN THE RFN SCREENWRITERS’ LAB
December scripts:
Join the Richmond 48 Hour HORROR Film Project for in-person open auditions on Monday, September 29, from 6:30–8:30 p.m. at Libbie Mill Library Meeting Room, 2100 Libbie Lake East St., Richmond.
This is your opportunity to showcase your talent and connect directly with local filmmakers who are actively seeking actors for their horror films that they will make in 48 hours on the weekend of October 10-12! MUST SIGN UP!
Details:
Audition slots are limited — reserve yours today!
Please prepare a 1-minute memorized monologue of your choice.
Self-tapes will not be accepted.
You must be available the filmmaking weekend, October 10–12.
Don’t miss your chance to be seen. SIGN UP for your slot today!
Join us on Wednesday, September 24, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Harry's Library at the Hof for the Richmond 48 Hour Film Project Networking Mixer! Whether you're a filmmaker looking for crew, an actor seeking a team, or just a creative spirit excited to be part of the 48HFP madness, this is the perfect opportunity to connect.
Find a team, fill vacant roles, or just mingle with Richmond’s vibrant film community over drinks in a relaxed setting.
Parking is awful, so we encourage carpooling, Ubering, or scooting!
See you there!
Join us on Saturday, September 20 at 5PM at The Hofheimer Loft (2818 W. Broad St.) for a public table read of Cephra Stuart and Duke Sayer’s feature-length dramedy Are We Dating the Same Guy?
Featuring performances by: Zakiya Roberts, Charlotte Kulak, Nhu Doan, Tra'Waan Coles, Mel Mjlsztejn, Sech Gire, and Rishi Vemulamanda.
This FREE event is open to the public! Experience talented Virginia actors as they bring the script to life. Then stick around for a post-reading Q&A where your feedback will help the writers refine their work before moving into the next phase of development and production.
Location: The Hofheimer Loft
Date: Saturday, Sept. 20
Time: 5:00 PM
Tickets: Tickets are required for this FREE event
Don’t miss this unique chance to be part of the filmmaking process!
Our program begins promptly. We encourage you to allow extra time to park in Scott’s Addition, get settled with refreshments, and find your seat before the event starts, so the program can flow without interruptions.
The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a workshop of member scripts.
The Screenwriters Lab will discuss, critique and provide feedback to RFN member writers by:
noting what works
identifying problems, and
suggesting potential solutions for the writer to consider
Script submission always open! Submit PDF scripts HERE to be considered for a future lab. Both shorts and features are accepted.
Here are the program guidelines:
1. The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a safe, constructive space for writers to support, learn, grow, and inspire.
2. Anyone may participate as writer (being workshopped), peer (offering feedback) or observer, but participants must be RFN members (free to join). We believe that all roles receive benefit from the process. Peers should have some writing experience and are highly encouraged to register early so that they may receive scripts and have time prior to the workshop to read and prepare.
3. Scripts must demonstrate at least an intermediate understanding of script format to ensure the workshop is primarily focused on story structure and development, and not on formatting rules.
4. Two scripts are selected per workshop.
5. Workshopped writers are responsible for taking their own notes, but prepared notes from peers are appreciated.
Learn exactly how The Sunroom created the 2025 Richmond 48 Hour Film Project’s Best Film, “Hamburger,” in just two days. City Producer Lisa Giles will break down the contest rules and procedures, while The Sunroom team—Mike Thibodeau (writer/director), Alec Gary (director of photography), and Ryan Gary (sound mixer)—share their strategies for conquering production on an intense 48-hour timeline.
No registration required for this FREE event.
Richmond is a city bursting with musical and cinematic talent. What happens when those worlds finally collide? Join us for an electric evening that peels back the curtain on the soundtrack of independent film and reveals the untold stories of sync licensing, scoring, and songwriting from three of Richmond’s most compelling musical minds. Featuring:
Ellis Williams – music licensor, sync expert, and composer bridging business and artistry
Stephen Schneider – cinematic composer bringing film stories to life with immersive soundscapes
Deau Eyes – award-winning singer-songwriter whose genre-defying music is changing the game
…and moderated by MK Martey, filmmaker.
Whether you’re a filmmaker in search of the perfect composer or a musician curious about licensing your tracks for film and TV, this panel will get you out of your creative silo and into the room with the collaborators you've been waiting for.
Register to attend this event HERE.
The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a workshop of member scripts.
The Screenwriters Lab will discuss, critique and provide feedback to RFN member writers by:
noting what works
identifying problems, and
suggesting potential solutions for the writer to consider
Script submission always open! Submit PDF scripts HERE to be considered for a future lab. Both shorts and features are accepted.
Here are the program guidelines:
1. The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a safe, constructive space for writers to support, learn, grow, and inspire.
2. Anyone may participate as writer (being workshopped), peer (offering feedback) or observer, but participants must be RFN members (free to join). We believe that all roles receive benefit from the process. Peers should have some writing experience and are highly encouraged to register early so that they may receive scripts and have time prior to the workshop to read and prepare.
3. Scripts must demonstrate at least an intermediate understanding of script format to ensure the workshop is primarily focused on story structure and development, and not on formatting rules.
4. Two scripts are selected per workshop.
5. Workshopped writers are responsible for taking their own notes, but prepared notes from peers are appreciated.
RFN Indie Fest offers an immersive, day-long event featuring the best in independent cinema. Each fest includes two curated short film blocks as well as a feature presentation, showcasing innovative films from local to international creators. Our lineup is crafted for the true cinephile—films that go beyond mainstream offerings and engage in fresh storytelling, daring themes, and visual eye candy. In addition to screenings, RFN Indie Fest offers dynamic sessions such as live table reads, panel discussions, and filmmaker workshops, designed to entertain, inspire and inform.
Ready… Set… SHOOT!
Filmmakers from Richmond and beyond took up the challenge to write, shoot, and edit a short film in just 48 hours. Now you get the chance to see them again at the Encore Screenings of the Richmond 48 Hour Film Project!
🎟️ Tickets:
$15 in advance (online only) through July 26
$18 day of event (online or at the door while they last) July 27
SCREENING ORDER (TBA):
Films are not rated and may contain mature content or language.
Arrive early! Give yourself time to park, check in, grab concessions, and get settled. The show starts promptly at 2PM!
Which film will rise above the rest, compete at Filmapalooza in Lisbon, Portugal in March 2026, and even have a shot at screening at the legendary Cannes Film Festival!
Feeling sick? Please stay home—we’ll miss you, but let’s keep everyone safe.
Sorry, no refunds.
Ready… Set… SHOOT!
Filmmakers from Richmond and beyond took up the challenge to write, shoot, and edit a short film in just 48 hours. Now you get the chance to be the first to see their cinematic magic at the World Premiere Screenings of the Richmond 48 Hour Film Project!
Be part of the excitement! Each screening features a Q&A with the filmmakers and an opportunity to vote for your Audience Favorite! Voting is quick and easy with a QR code—just bring a mobile device and a gmail account to cast your vote and make your voice heard.
🎟️ Tickets:
$15 in advance (online only) through July 19
$18 day of event (online or at the door while they last) July 20
Don't wait! These screenings WILL sell out!
SCREENING GROUP C (in alphabetical order):
Alleged Adults
Death by Stereo!
Gooseless in Seattle
Miel
Monster Tooth Productions
One Shot Pictures
Restless Dream Syndrome
Rosado Film
Steeplechase2
The Bloodline
The Phantom Players
The Rats Nest
The Sunroom
Films are not rated and may contain mature content or language.
Arrive early! Give yourself time to park, check in, grab concessions, and get settled. The show starts promptly at 5PM, and we expect a full house!
Which film will rise above the rest? Your favorite could go on to win Best of Richmond, compete at Filmapalooza in Lisbon, Portugal in March 2026, and even have a shot at screening at the legendary Cannes Film Festival!
Feeling sick? Please stay home—we’ll miss you, but let’s keep everyone safe.
Sorry, no refunds.
Ready… Set… SHOOT!
Filmmakers from Richmond and beyond took up the challenge to write, shoot, and edit a short film in just 48 hours. Now you get the chance to be the first to see their cinematic magic at the World Premiere Screenings of the Richmond 48 Hour Film Project!
Be part of the excitement! Each screening features a Q&A with the filmmakers and an opportunity to vote for your Audience Favorite! Voting is quick and easy with a QR code—just bring a mobile device and a gmail account to cast your vote and make your voice heard.
🎟️ Tickets:
$15 in advance (online only) through July 19
$18 day of event (online or at the door while they last) July 20
Don't wait! These screenings WILL sell out!
SCREENING GROUP B (in alphabetical order):
Amplyfied Pyctures
Bowtie Boys Productions
Cyanide Squirrel Films
Happy House Pictures
Jpixx
MB Productions
noh KEI Productions
Pure Artistry Productions
Route 198 Studios
The Star Gazers
We'll Fix it in Post
West and Virginia
WTF Studio
Films are not rated and may contain mature content or language.
Arrive early! Give yourself time to park, check in, grab concessions, and get settled. The show starts promptly at 2:30PM, and we expect a full house!
Which film will rise above the rest? Your favorite could go on to win Best of Richmond, compete at Filmapalooza in Lisbon, Portugal in March 2026, and even have a shot at screening at the legendary Cannes Film Festival!
Feeling sick? Please stay home—we’ll miss you, but let’s keep everyone safe.
Sorry, no refunds.
Ready… Set… SHOOT!
Filmmakers from Richmond and beyond took up the challenge to write, shoot, and edit a short film in just 48 hours. Now you get the chance to be the first to see their cinematic magic at the World Premiere Screenings of the Richmond 48 Hour Film Project!
Be part of the excitement! Each screening features a Q&A with the filmmakers and an opportunity to vote for your Audience Favorite! Voting is quick and easy with a QR code—just bring a mobile device and a gmail account to cast your vote and make your voice heard.
🎟️ Tickets:
$15 in advance (online only) through July 19
$18 day of event (online or at the door while they last) July 20
Don't wait! These screenings WILL sell out!
SCREENING GROUP A (in alphabetical order):
A. Cavatica Production
Absurd Heroes
Blue Dragon Films
Fourth Floor Films
Heavy is the Head that Wears the Crown...
JAWFOX Productions
Little Lebowski Urban Achievers
LoukaRound
My Uncle Derek
Newspaper Jacket Productions
Polkadot Pooch Productions
RPAA Digital Arts Lab
ScenePlay Studios
Films are not rated and may contain mature content or language.
Arrive early! Give yourself time to park, check in, grab concessions, and get settled. The show starts promptly at 12PM, and we expect a full house!
Which film will rise above the rest? Your favorite could go on to win Best of Richmond, compete at Filmapalooza in Lisbon, Portugal in March 2026, and even have a shot at screening at the legendary Cannes Film Festival!
Feeling sick? Please stay home—we’ll miss you, but let’s keep everyone safe.
Sorry, no refunds.
The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a workshop of member scripts.
The Screenwriters Lab will discuss, critique and provide feedback to RFN member writers by:
noting what works
identifying problems, and
suggesting potential solutions for the writer to consider
Script submission always open! Submit PDF scripts HERE to be considered for a future lab. Both shorts and features are accepted.
Here are the program guidelines:
1. The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a safe, constructive space for writers to support, learn, grow, and inspire.
2. Anyone may participate as writer (being workshopped), peer (offering feedback) or observer, but participants must be RFN members (free to join). We believe that all roles receive benefit from the process. Peers should have some writing experience and are highly encouraged to register early so that they may receive scripts and have time prior to the workshop to read and prepare.
3. Scripts must demonstrate at least an intermediate understanding of script format to ensure the workshop is primarily focused on story structure and development, and not on formatting rules.
4. Two scripts are selected per workshop.
5. Workshopped writers are responsible for taking their own notes, but prepared notes from peers are appreciated.
Have what it takes to make a short film in 48 hours?
Have what it takes to make a short film in 48 hours?
Join us on Thursday, June 19, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Harry's Library at the Hof for the Richmond 48 Hour Film Project Networking Mixer! Whether you're a filmmaker looking for crew, an actor seeking a team, or just a creative spirit excited to be part of the 48HFP madness, this is the perfect opportunity to connect.
Find a team, fill vacant roles, or just mingle with Richmond’s vibrant film community over drinks in a relaxed setting.
Parking is awful, so we encourage carpooling, Ubering, or scooting!
See you there!
The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a workshop of member scripts.
The Screenwriters Lab will discuss, critique and provide feedback to RFN member writers by:
noting what works
identifying problems, and
suggesting potential solutions for the writer to consider
Script submission always open! Submit PDF scripts HERE to be considered for a future lab. Both shorts and features are accepted.
Here are the program guidelines:
1. The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a safe, constructive space for writers to support, learn, grow, and inspire.
2. Anyone may participate as writer (being workshopped), peer (offering feedback) or observer, but participants must be RFN members (free to join). We believe that all roles receive benefit from the process. Peers should have some writing experience and are highly encouraged to register early so that they may receive scripts and have time prior to the workshop to read and prepare.
3. Scripts must demonstrate at least an intermediate understanding of script format to ensure the workshop is primarily focused on story structure and development, and not on formatting rules.
4. Two scripts are selected per workshop.
5. Workshopped writers are responsible for taking their own notes, but prepared notes from peers are appreciated.
Join us for How to 48, a workshop featuring the winning team behind the 2024 Richmond 48 Hour Horror Film Project, Monster Tooth Productions.
Director Samuel Van Fossen, Gaffer Josh Wright, and Director of Photography Matt Owen will share insider tips and tricks on how to successfully create a captivating film in just 48 hours. From concept development, to script writing, efficient planning, lighting techniques, and on-set strategies, this workshop will provide valuable insights for both aspiring and seasoned filmmakers.
Event Details:
📅 Date: Wednesday, May 29, 2024
⏰ Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Libbie Mill Library Meeting Room, 2100 Libbie Lake E Street, Henrico
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best and gain the tools to bring your next masterpiece to life!
The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a workshop of member scripts.
The Screenwriters Lab will discuss, critique and provide feedback to RFN member writers by:
noting what works
identifying problems, and
suggesting potential solutions for the writer to consider
Script submission always open! Submit PDF scripts HERE to be considered for a future lab. Both shorts and features are accepted.
Here are the program guidelines:
1. The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a safe, constructive space for writers to support, learn, grow, and inspire.
2. Anyone may participate as writer (being workshopped), peer (offering feedback) or observer, but participants must be RFN members (free to join). We believe that all roles receive benefit from the process. Peers should have some writing experience and are highly encouraged to register early so that they may receive scripts and have time prior to the workshop to read and prepare.
3. Scripts must demonstrate at least an intermediate understanding of script format to ensure the workshop is primarily focused on story structure and development, and not on formatting rules.
4. Two scripts are selected per workshop.
5. Workshopped writers are responsible for taking their own notes, but prepared notes from peers are appreciated.
RFN Indie Fest offers an immersive, day-long event featuring the best in independent cinema. Each fest includes two curated short film blocks as well as a feature presentation, showcasing innovative films from local to international creators. Our lineup is crafted for the true cinephile—films that go beyond mainstream offerings and engage in fresh storytelling, daring themes, and visual eye candy. In addition to screenings, RFN Indie Fest offers dynamic sessions such as live table reads, panel discussions, and filmmaker workshops, designed to entertain, inspire and inform.
The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a workshop of member scripts.
The Screenwriters Lab will discuss, critique and provide feedback to RFN member writers by:
noting what works
identifying problems, and
suggesting potential solutions for the writer to consider
Script submission always open! Submit PDF scripts HERE to be considered for a future lab. Both shorts and features are accepted.
Here are the program guidelines:
1. The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a safe, constructive space for writers to support, learn, grow, and inspire.
2. Anyone may participate as writer (being workshopped), peer (offering feedback) or observer, but participants must be RFN members (free to join). We believe that all roles receive benefit from the process. Peers should have some writing experience and are highly encouraged to register early so that they may receive scripts and have time prior to the workshop to read and prepare.
3. Scripts must demonstrate at least an intermediate understanding of script format to ensure the workshop is primarily focused on story structure and development, and not on formatting rules.
4. Two scripts are selected per workshop.
5. Workshopped writers are responsible for taking their own notes, but prepared notes from peers are appreciated.
The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a workshop of member scripts.
The Screenwriters Lab will discuss, critique and provide feedback to RFN member writers by:
noting what works
identifying problems, and
suggesting potential solutions for the writer to consider
Script submission always open! Submit PDF scripts HERE to be considered for a future lab. Both shorts and features are accepted.
Here are the program guidelines:
1. The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a safe, constructive space for writers to support, learn, grow, and inspire.
2. Anyone may participate as writer (being workshopped), peer (offering feedback) or observer, but participants must be RFN members (free to join). We believe that all roles receive benefit from the process. Peers should have some writing experience and are highly encouraged to register early so that they may receive scripts and have time prior to the workshop to read and prepare.
3. Scripts must demonstrate at least an intermediate understanding of script format to ensure the workshop is primarily focused on story structure and development, and not on formatting rules.
4. Two scripts are selected per workshop.
5. Workshopped writers are responsible for taking their own notes, but prepared notes from peers are appreciated.
The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a workshop of member scripts.
The Screenwriters Lab will discuss, critique and provide feedback to RFN member writers by:
noting what works
identifying problems, and
suggesting potential solutions for the writer to consider
Script submission always open! Submit PDF scripts HERE to be considered for a future lab. Both shorts and features are accepted.
Here are the program guidelines:
1. The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a safe, constructive space for writers to support, learn, grow, and inspire.
2. Anyone may participate as writer (being workshopped), peer (offering feedback) or observer, but participants must be RFN members (free to join). We believe that all roles receive benefit from the process. Peers should have some writing experience and are highly encouraged to register early so that they may receive scripts and have time prior to the workshop to read and prepare.
3. Scripts must demonstrate at least an intermediate understanding of script format to ensure the workshop is primarily focused on story structure and development, and not on formatting rules.
4. Two scripts are selected per workshop.
5. Workshopped writers are responsible for taking their own notes, but prepared notes from peers are appreciated.
One Night. One Feature. Infinite Impact.
Close out the festival with a pulse-pounding finale that will leave you gripping your seat! Remote takes us deep into the shadows of a small-town mystery where danger lurks behind every corner.
With suspense, razor-sharp storytelling, and an unforgettable climax, Remote is a tension-filled with a thrilling conclusion to RFN Indie Fest. Don’t miss the festival's high-stakes finale that will keep you riveted until the very last frame!
REMOTE*
Matthew Tribble, Cedar Rapids - Thriller 1:14:13
A TV reporter and a photographer must fight for their lives when their investigation into a murder uncovers dark secrets and violent grudges among the local residents.
* scheduled to appear
After the screening, rate the film to put it in the running for the coveted Audience Choice Award! Then go beyond the screen and dive into the creative process as the members of the cast and crew share their journeys, insights, and the inspiration behind their work in the post-screening filmmaker talkback.
This is your chance to support diverse, independent voices and immerse yourself in stories that will move and inspire you. Space is limited, so secure your spot today and be part of the magic that makes the RFN Indie Fest an unforgettable celebration of film.
Fresh cuts. Big feels. 10 out of 10. Short Cuts delivers raw emotion, gripping tension, and bold stories that hit hard. Dive into resilience, relationships, and unforgettable moments that linger long after the credits roll!
Nathan Piskator, Richmond - Drama 13:38
A young woman named Blue goes to therapy.
Joe Carabao, Fairfax - Cyber Punk 21:31
After receiving a humanitarian award, Senator Horace Black is hunted by an unknown presence.
D.J. Higgins, Schuylkill Haven - Unromantic Comedy 4:00
On their 10th wedding anniversary, Monica and Jimmy share pizza, wine, and an unbearable silence that reveals cracks in their marriage.
Michael Brown, New York - Drama 13:36
A mother determined to throw a joyous high school graduation party for her son clashes with her husband as they confront the lingering trauma threatening to overshadow their celebration.
NHU DAWN*
Caitlin Whitaker, Richmond - Thriller 6:49
Trapped in a dungeon by a sinister family, Nhu seizes a daring chance to escape after silencing a brutal guard, while the other captives face a deadly choice: follow her into the unknown or risk falling prey to the family’s twisted grip.
Kazim Mutlu, Turkey - Drama 10:25
Şule gifts her husband a VR experience to spark the thrill of intimacy with someone new, but after an unexpectedly intense encounter, she becomes fixated on finding the mysterious woman from the simulation.
* scheduled to appear
Vote for your favorite film to snag the Audience Choice Award! Stick around for the filmmaker talkback to hear behind-the-scenes stories and creative insights. Support diverse indie voices, get inspired, and grab your spot now—space is limited!
A ticket to this event grants access to the Short Cuts mainstage screening as well as an all-day pass to the Brews & Views Zone including our exhibitors area. This ticket does not grant access to any other mainstage screening. To take a deep dive and experience RFN Indie Fest with an all-access day pass, get your tickets HERE.
Get tix. Get shook. Repeat. Short Circuit brings bold, offbeat films packed with chills, laughs, and twists. Quirky, surreal, and unforgettable—don’t miss this indie thrill ride!
Seyla Hossaini, Richmond - Drama 23:57
A quirky cokehead who sells furbies online snorts a bad batch cursed by an amateur Wiccan.
Rachel Grant & Joey Tran, Richmond - Comedy 5:01
In this modern retelling of Edgar Allen Poe's short story "The Tell-Tale Heart," a suburban woman is driven mad by her next door neighbor's incessant leaf blowing.
Mark G. Lakatos, Hungary - Drama 21:29
A selfish son returns to see his estranged father, only to discover something sinister.
Kathy Meng, New York - Drama 13:01
On her day-off after recently being dumped, a young and anxious assistant, Willow is ordered to aid the elusive husband of her high-powered boss for an unusual task.
Lauren Wheeler, Stafford - Drama 13:48
Two self-conscious women go to extreme lengths to combat a bigoted, narcissistic man who triggers their ongoing struggle with body dysmorphia.
Noah Pescara, Richmond - Romance 9:45
In the enchanting Quirk Hotel, a mysterious man and a captivating woman embark on a surreal journey of romance and intrigue, where reality blurs with fantasy, and a cosmic secret awaits within a briefcase.
* scheduled to appear
Vote for your favorite film to snag the Audience Choice Award! Stick around for the filmmaker talkback to hear behind-the-scenes stories and creative insights. Support diverse indie voices, get inspired, and grab your spot now—space is limited!
A ticket to this event grants access to the Short Circuit mainstage screening as well as an all-day pass to the Brews & Views Zone including our exhibitors area. This ticket does not grant access to any other mainstage screening. To take a deep dive and experience RFN Indie Fest with an all-access day pass, get your tickets HERE.
RFN Indie Fest offers an immersive, day-long event featuring the best in independent cinema.
The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a workshop of member scripts.
The Screenwriters Lab will discuss, critique and provide feedback to RFN member writers by:
noting what works
identifying problems, and
suggesting potential solutions for the writer to consider
Script submission always open! Submit PDF scripts HERE to be considered for a future lab. Both shorts and features are accepted.
Here are the program guidelines:
1. The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a safe, constructive space for writers to support, learn, grow, and inspire.
2. Anyone may participate as writer (being workshopped), peer (offering feedback) or observer, but participants must be RFN members (free to join). We believe that all roles receive benefit from the process. Peers should have some writing experience and are highly encouraged to register early so that they may receive scripts and have time prior to the workshop to read and prepare.
3. Scripts must demonstrate at least an intermediate understanding of script format to ensure the workshop is primarily focused on story structure and development, and not on formatting rules.
4. Two scripts are selected per workshop.
5. Workshopped writers are responsible for taking their own notes, but prepared notes from peers are appreciated.
The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a workshop of member scripts.
The Screenwriters Lab will discuss, critique and provide feedback to RFN member writers by:
noting what works
identifying problems, and
suggesting potential solutions for the writer to consider
Script submission always open! Submit PDF scripts HERE to be considered for a future lab. Both shorts and features are accepted.
Here are the program guidelines:
1. The RFN Screenwriters Lab is a safe, constructive space for writers to support, learn, grow, and inspire.
2. Anyone may participate as writer (being workshopped), peer (offering feedback) or observer, but participants must be RFN members (free to join). We believe that all roles receive benefit from the process. Peers should have some writing experience and are highly encouraged to register early so that they may receive scripts and have time prior to the workshop to read and prepare.
3. Scripts must demonstrate at least an intermediate understanding of script format to ensure the workshop is primarily focused on story structure and development, and not on formatting rules.
4. Two scripts are selected per workshop.
5. Workshopped writers are responsible for taking their own notes, but prepared notes from peers are appreciated.
Richmond filmmaking teams vie for global victory—and a chance to screen at Filmapalooza in Seattle, WA in March, or maybe even at Cannes in May!
