15 Holiday-Themed Short Film Ideas for Your Next Low-Budget Screenplay
The holiday season is the perfect backdrop for heartfelt, hopeful storytelling. If you’re looking to create a short film on a tight budget, we’ve compiled 15 screenplay ideas tailored for 3–5 page scripts. These stories feature minimal locations, 1–2 characters, and simple yet meaningful narratives, all steeped in the magic of winter.
1. The Lost Ornament
When a cherished heirloom ornament goes missing, a meticulous homeowner and their forgetful houseguest must work together to solve the mystery. Their search reveals hidden emotions and brings them closer, just in time for the holidays.
2. Silent Night Shift
A security guard, stuck working alone on Christmas Eve, discovers an abandoned letter to Santa. A mysterious visitor arrives claiming to pick it up, sparking a conversation about belief, duty, and the small wonders of life.
3. Last Stop Carolers
Two strangers find themselves stranded in a snowed-in subway car on Christmas Eve. Through conversation and a shared carol, they confront loneliness and find an unexpected connection that brightens their holiday spirits.
4. The Tree Lot Gamble
A single parent and a stubborn tree lot owner clash over the last affordable Christmas tree. When the tree is damaged during their argument, they find a creative way to salvage it—and forge a surprising friendship.
5. Borrowed Light
A widow loses power during a snowstorm and reluctantly borrows a candle from her grumpy young neighbor. What starts as a begrudging interaction turns into a heartfelt exchange of holiday memories and understanding.
6. The Cookie Jar
A child sneaks downstairs to snag Santa’s cookies but is caught by their babysitter. The ensuing negotiation leads to shared holiday memories, revealing both the child’s mischievous joy and the babysitter’s bittersweet struggles.
7. Wrapping It Up
Two estranged siblings are forced to wrap holiday gifts together after their mother gets injured. As frustrations rise, they rediscover common ground through shared childhood traditions, mending their broken relationship.
8. Snow Angel
A maintenance worker argues with a woman refusing to move from a snowy park bench. She claims she’s waiting for someone important. The conversation reveals her poignant reason, and the worker chooses to sit with her, offering unexpected comfort.
9. Letters to Nowhere
On Christmas Eve, a postal worker finds a child’s letter to Santa containing an impossible wish. Encouraged by a colleague, they deliver a small but meaningful gift, sparking holiday magic in a humble way.
10. The Mitten Exchange
Two strangers accidentally swap identical mittens in a café. One desperately needs them to complete a holiday gift, while the other uses them to stay warm. A mutual gesture of kindness brings joy to both.
11. Starry Night
An amateur astronomer, frustrated by light pollution on the night of a rare Christmas comet, bonds with a delivery driver who helps them see wonder in the little things, restoring their sense of awe.
12. Return Policy
A stressed retail worker clashes with a customer trying to return a sentimental gift. Their argument reveals personal struggles, leading to a moment of mutual understanding and holiday closure.
13. Frozen Wishes
A snow globe collector receives an unusual visitor claiming their favorite globe holds the power to grant one wish. As the collector contemplates their decision, they uncover a renewed appreciation for the life they already have.
14. The Wreath Thief
When a homeowner catches their neighbor stealing a handmade holiday wreath, a confrontation reveals the neighbor’s desperation. This leads to an act of kindness that transforms both of their holidays.
15. Countdown to Midnight
Two radio DJs spend Christmas Eve fielding bizarre and heartfelt calls from listeners. Their professional banter masks personal tension, but as the night unfolds, they rediscover the joy of connection—and their own holiday spirit.
Why These Stories Work
Each of these short film ideas is designed for simplicity and impact:
- Low-budget production: One location, 1–2 characters, and minimal props make these ideas easy to produce.
- Relatable themes: They tap into universal emotions like loneliness, connection, and hope.
- Holiday spirit: These stories celebrate the magic of winter, offering uplifting resolutions perfect for the season.
Whether you’re a first-time filmmaker or an experienced screenwriter, these ideas provide a great starting point for crafting a compelling short film. The holiday season is a time for storytelling—so grab your script and start filming!
