Your story. Your city. Your film.

A Place Called Sacramento is Access Sacramento’s year-round short film incubator — a hands-on program that helps local storytellers take an idea from script to screen.

Now in its 26th year, this nonprofit media arts program gives emerging filmmakers a path to create, produce and premiere an original short film right here in Sacramento.

Ready to jump in?

Start by reading the scriptwriting competition rules and submitting your script. Be warned: this is not just a writing contest. Winners commit to producing their films over the summer, raising or spending what they need to complete the project, and working with volunteer cast and crew to bring their stories to life.

Not submitting a script? You can still be part of it.

Join us at the Volunteer Cast & Crew Call to meet filmmakers, actors, crew members and community creatives who want to help make this year’s films happen.

Volunteer Cast & Crew Call
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
6 to 8 p.m.
Coloma Community Center
4623 T St.
Sacramento, CA 95819

How it works

1. Read the competition rules
   Know what you’re signing up for. Winners must be ready to produce a short film.
2. Submit your script (2026 competition is closed)  
   Enter your story into the competition.
3. Take short film production classes
   Brush up on the process, forms, planning and production basics.
4. Attend the Cast & Crew Call
   Connect with volunteer actors, crew members and collaborators.
5. Make your film
   Winning filmmakers shoot and edit their projects over the summer.
6. Walk the red carpet
   Celebrate the world premiere of 10 new local indie films at the historic Crest Theatre on Friday, Oct. 16, at 7 p.m.
7. Build from there
   Use the experience, awards and connections to help launch your next creative step.

Sacramento has stories to tell. One of them could be yours!