Plan before the panic
Challenge FAQ
Straight answers about teams, scripts, rights, deadlines and finishing the work.
Do scripts have to be written in October?
No. Scripts may be written before October. The core challenge is to record and post-produce the show during October.
What is the deadline?
The annual deadline is 11 PM on October 28.
How long can the script be?
Scripts must be under 30 pages. The limit protects the actors, directors, editors, sound designers and producers who still have to finish the show inside the October production window.
Do I need an established production company?
No. You can form a team specifically for the Challenge. The important part is collaboration.
Should more than one production company be involved?
Yes. Cross-company collaboration is a core part of the Challenge and one of the main reasons it exists.
Can we use music, sound effects or other copyrighted material?
Yes, when you created it, have permission to use it or hold a license that clearly covers the production and release. If you do not own it and do not have permission, do not use it.
Does the production have to be horror?
The annual October Challenge is rooted in horror, but horror can overlap with comedy, science fiction, fantasy, folklore, mystery and experimental work.
What if we miss the deadline?
Finish the show anyway. It may not qualify for every part of that year’s event, but the work and the collaboration still matter.