Two Minute Masterpiece is back!

Calling all emerging filmmakers! We want your boldest, most creative short film ideas.

Two Minute Masterpiece is a BBC Northern Ireland talent development initiative, delivered in partnership with Northern Ireland Screen. This short filmmaking opportunity is designed to spotlight the next generation of visual storytellers. Whether you're into drama, animation, documentary, comedy, or experimental film – this is your chance to push your creative boundaries and get your work seen on the BBC.

What’s on offer?

Up to six filmmakers will be selected to produce a two-minute film, with:

• £2,000 production funding
• Mentorship from industry professionals
• Production plan development
• The chance to have your film showcased across BBC platforms

We’re especially keen to hear from voices and perspectives that are underrepresented in the media industry. If your idea explores fresh viewpoints or reflects the diversity of life in Northern Ireland, we want to hear from you.

We welcome creative proposals for:

• Drama
• Documentary
• Animation
• Comedy
• Experimental films

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to:

• An online pitching and mentorship session with industry experts.
• A pitch to a BBC NI and NI Screen commissioning panel.

Production Timeline

Please only submit an idea if you are available on these dates:

• Submissions open: Wednesday 12th November 2025
• Submissions deadline: Monday 1st December 2025
• A panel of BBC NI and Northern Ireland Screen staff will shortlist the submitted entries. Shortlisted filmmakers will be notified by Thursday 4th December 2025
• Shortlisted candidates will have an online pitching session with an industry mentor on Wednesday 10th December 2025
• Candidates pitch to a BBC commissioning panel on Wednesday 17th December 2025 with notification of results to candidates within one week
• Successful filmmakers will work with a mentor to develop a detailed production plan for sign off by Monday 12th January 2026
• Up to six filmmakers will be paired with an industry mentor and will each be awarded a £2,000 production fund to make their film
• Films must be delivered to the BBC by Monday 23rd February 2026

In-house edit, grade and dub with BBC staff will be scheduled between 24th - 27th February 2026.

BBC NI will decide on an appropriate date for iPlayer publication in 2026.

Launch Event – Belfast Media Festival 2025

Series 11 will officially launch at The MAC, Belfast on Wednesday 12th November, as part of the Belfast Media Festival. Hosted by Steven Rainey, the event will feature screenings of recent films and a panel discussion with past participants and mentors.

If you’ve got a short film idea and are ready to take the next step in your filmmaking journey, sign up to attend the launch via the Belfast Media Festival website.