What happens when you turn the filmmaking process on its head? Build-A-Short is Heavy Shovel’s bold answer to that question. This community-driven project starts with what we have—a network of creative minds, a shared passion for storytelling, and access to unique locations—and lets the rest unfold collaboratively. From sourcing locations to voting on scripts and assembling a crew, it’s filmmaking as a collective experiment.

UPDATE!! The Location Prompt deck is now LIVE. Check it out here.

Submit your script here.

Here’s how it works:

Step One: Locations, locations, locations. Have access to a restaurant, a random farm, or even just a photogenic house around LA or NY? Lock that space down (ideally for free), and you could land yourself a credit as an Executive Producer on the film.
Step Two: The Deck. Heavy Shovel will compile the selected locations, along with content guidelines and thematic prompts. It’s like a blueprint for creativity—part inspiration, part practical guide.
Step Three: Writers take the stage...well, script. Armed with the deck, anyone can submit a script under 15 pages. The goal? A concise, compelling short film tailored to the locations and themes outlined. We want something that is actually shoot-able.
Step Four: A curated selection. Readers will review submissions and choose six finalists—three from LA and three from NY.
Step Five: The fundraiser event. In each city, the finalist scripts will be performed in front of an audience. Think table read meets campaign rally. The audience votes, and the winning script gets the green light for production.
Step Six: Crew up. At the same event, filmmakers can sign up to join the production team. Whether you’re a camera operator or a set decorator, throw your hat in the ring and get involved.

Timeline:

November: Call for Locations
December: The Deck is released, and script submissions open
January 31st @ 5 pm PT: Scripts are due
February: Finalists are announced (three in LA, three in NY)
March–June: Fundraiser event + production begins

How do I get involved?

All announcements will be made on Heavy Shovel Productions’ Instagram-- make sure to follow us for updates.
Right now, we are looking for locations! Submit them here and you could be an EP on our short film.

You can join our mailing list too for first info on crew calls and casting.

BUILD-A-FAQ

Has it started? 
Kinda. We are now accepting locations. When all the locations are in, we will share a prompt deck. Based on those prompts, you will be able to write your original scripts. Submissions will be open through early January. 

Can I submit a script that I have already written?
No, all scripts need to be originally created for this project. 

So what’s the timeline? 
It looks like the deck will come out at the end of December, and then the scripts will be due at the beginning of January. We are hoping for the fundraiser event (table read voting) and then production to happen March-June. 

I am an actor - where can I submit? 
Cast and crew can join our mailing list (linked) to be added to our database! There will be more information on our casting opportunities and a formal crew call down the line. 

Can I send you my reel to be considered? 
No need - we will be reviewing all submissions after the cast and crew calls are posted, but feel free to join the mailing list and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date. 

Do I need to submit a location in order to write something? 
Nope, anyone can submit a script! 

Tldr; all info will be posted on our IG story in the coming months.