Roadmap Writers Proof of Concept Challenge

Objective

Halfway Crooks Entertainment is partnering with Roadmap Writers to launch the Proof of Concept Challenge, a nationwide search for exceptional short screenplays with feature-film potential. One Grand Prize winner will receive $15,000 in production funding from Halfway Crooks Entertainment to bring their proof-of-concept short film to life, with the opportunity to begin developing the project toward a future feature film.

Deadline/Entry Fees

Notification: Semifinalists | November 30th, 2026; Finalists | December 28th, 2026; Interviews | January 4th, 2026 - Janurary 9th, 2027; Grand Prize Winner I February 12th, 2027

Rules

Awards

Top 10 Semifinalists

The Top 10 writers will participate in a virtual 30-minute interview with Roadmap Writers and Halway Crooks Entertainment to discuss their screenplay, creative vision, and the project's potential as a feature film.

One Grand Prize Winner

• $15,000 in production funding from Halfway Crooks Entertainment to produce the proof-of-concept short film.
• Collaboration with the Halfway Crooks team throughout production to develop and produce the short film.
• A festival strategy for the completed short film.
• Industry outreach by Halfway Crooks Entertainment to financing partners and studio contacts to explore opportunities for feature-film development.
• Roadmap Writers will provide marketing to Managers or Agents if the creative does not already have representation.

Important note: While Halfway Crooks Entertainment intends to use the completed proof of concept to pursue feature-film financing and development opportunities, production of the short film does not guarantee that a feature film will be financed, developed, or produced. Any future feature development remains at the sole discretion of Halfway Crooks Entertainment and will be subject to separate agreements.