The Top Three Screenplay Table Reads are here – Which story will you choose?

Last year, your votes sent The Waif into production with a BAFTA-nominated director, Stephen Fingleton. This year, three new scripts are fighting for that same shot at the big screen.

Can you believe we’re already nearing the finish line? Whether you’re brand new to our Top Three screenplays or a die-hard Kinolimer, you won’t want to miss our exclusive table reads. Host Julia Yorks and Head of Development John Schramm dive into pivotal scenes from each finalist – offering sneak peek insight into how these beloved scripts could play out on the big screen.

Hungry for more? You’re in the right place. With the June 10th deadline fast approaching, every vote matters and the lucrative production deal is within touching distance. Once you’ve soaked in the table reads, don’t forget to cast your vote – your pick will help crown the ultimate winner!

MOB MENTALITY

Logline – A thirteen-year-old suburban kid believes he is the reincarnation of John Gotti and attempts to order a hit on Sammy The Bull Gravano.

Writer – Eric Landau Genre – Comedy

What makes it special – Actors Kevin Bartini and Danielle McMath star as the bewildered Siegel parents opposite John Tsimis’ scene-stealing turn as Nate – a precocious, potty-mouthed tween who’s convinced he’s the reincarnation of John Gotti. Watch as the Siegels react to Nate’s bombshell: he’s quitting school to chase his dream... in waste management. 

This foundational scene introduces us to Nate’s bizarre home life and Landau’s electric wit. 

DECOMPOSER

Logline – A parasite that has taken over the mind and body of a realtor in southern Appalachia yearns for the impossible, to be human.

Writers – Tabitha and Mason McDonald Genre – Horror / Thriller

What makes it special – Chris Hahn and Michael Way breathe life into the sticky world of Decomposer in this gripping table read. In a tense, quietly unsettling scene, protagonist George (or the parasite that lives within him) catches a ride with Lee – a kind-hearted trucker who senses something’s... off. As George fumbles through small talk, socializing, and wrestles with his evolving sense of humanity, Lee surprises him with empathy – and maybe even a life lesson or two.

There’s no greater scene to introduce you to the disturbing world the McDonald’s have crafted.

COOPERVILLE

Logline – A series of racially charged disappearances leads a detective and a young group of people to a mysterious town with a shocking secret.

Writer – Andre Ford Genre – Comedy / Horror / Sci-Fi

What makes it special – Actors Amber Jessie, Jonathan Castro, and Connor Bullock dial up the tension in this gripping police questioning that starts to crack the Cooperville mystery wide open. Two officers enter a seemingly quiet home – unsure if this is a dead end or the start of a breadcrumb trail. The screenplay has it all – comedy, horror, mystery – but this scene captures its unique sense of dread. 

Don’t miss this emotionally charged exchange, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the twisted rollercoaster ride this screenplay has in store.

Why your vote matters: You're not just picking a script, you're shaping what gets made. Our first competition winner, The Waif, was chosen by thousands of Kinolime members. It just secured a BAFTA-nominated director, Stephen Fingleton, and is officially moving into production. That happened because people like you cared enough to vote.

What's in it for you?

Every action you take earns you Lime$ – our way of saying thanks for being part of the process. You'll earn 3 Lime$ for each podcast episode you watch, 20 Lime$ for reading each script, and 10 Lime$ for listening to the audio versions. Plus, vote on all three finalists and we'll hook you up with a full year of Criterion Channel access.

Calling all actors: Here's your moment. Read all three scripts, cast your vote, and leave detailed feedback to unlock something special – an exclusive audition for an "under-five" speaking role. Even better? One lucky participant will actually be cast in The Waif, our previous winner that's now director-attached and heading into production this fall.

This isn't just about picking your favorite story. Your vote directly influences which film receives $15 million to bring their vision to life. Ready to make movie magic happen?

So what are you waiting for! Read or listen to the script, or check out our table read, and get your vote in before the deadline!