2026
Mosquers X Rifelion Script & Pitch Competition

Image describing the Script and pitch competition. On top of image of film reel and lanterns. with logos from organizers

Rifelion is partnering with The Mosquers Film Festival for the FOURTH year in a row to support Muslim screenwriters.

Individuals or teams will be required to submit a one-page synopsis of their short film idea and a 8-12 page script.

This years theme is “Iftar.” The scripts must feature Muslim characters. The script can be any genre.

Select finalists will be required to submit an updated 8-12 page short film script and a 5-10 page pitch deck which they will present live at The Mosquers Film Festival in Edmonton, Alberta on September 19, 2026.

$1,000 in prizes!

Deadline to apply is August 10, 2026. APPLY HERE.

Sponsored by Rifelion Media and The Mosquers Film Festival

Overview:

  • Pitch competition for the best short film idea, one-pager, script, and presentation.

  • Individuals and teams are encouraged to apply. Individuals cannot be a part of more than one team.

  • Writer and director teams are encouraged to apply and will be given preference. Both the writer and director must be Muslim and can’t be the same person.

  • A co-writer or co-director who is not Muslim is allowed.

  • This year’s theme is “Iftar.” Scripts can be any genre.

  • Must feature Muslim characters.

  • Open to anyone around the world. If selected as a finalist, one person from the team must be present to pitch live at The Mosquers Film Festival on September 19, 2026.

  • No use of existing characters, logos, brands, etc.

  • No previously produced or written material or adaptations.

  • No content created by AI.

  • You retain all IP and rights.

Instructions and Process:

  1. Individuals or teams must submit a one-page synopsis of their idea and a draft script (partial or finished) using the application form by August 10, 2026 at 11:59 pm PT.

  2. Six finalists will be announced by September 1, 2026.

  3. Finalists will be able to resubmit their FINAL 8-12 page script and a 5-10 page pitch deck by September 16, 2026 at 11:59 pm PT.

  4. Finalists must send at least one member of your team to The Mosquers Film Festival to pitch your movie live in front of on September 19, 2026. You will have to pay your own airfare. (All Finalists are invited to attend the Festival for free and may be eligible for a grant to cover part of your airfare and your hotel).

  5. Each pitch will be in front of the full festival audience (including the judges). Pitches must not be more than 5 minutes long.

  6. Winners will be announced at the end of the day.

Prizes:

  • Top team wins $500 USD and chance to have their film produced by Rifelion Media.

  • Second Place wins $250 USD

  • Audience Award wins $250 USD

  • Judges will base prizes on originality, pitch, core message, producibility, dialogue, character development, and team.

Deadlines:

  • July 7, 2026: Applications Open

  • August 10, 2026: Applications Close

  • September 1, 2026: Top 6 Finalists announced

  • September 16, 2026: Finalists submit final script and pitch deck

  • September 17-20, 2026: The Mosquers Film Festival

  • September 19, 2026: Finalists Live Pitch @ The Mosquers Film Festival

Application:

  • Apply Here

  • Please note that once you submit your application, you will not be able to change anything.

  • Learn more during one of our three information sessions: