2025 COWPOKES FILM FESTIVAL SYNOPSIS
Cant attend? You can still Donate and help support the CIFF
5th Annual
April 25-27 2025
114 N Waggoner St, Electra, TX 76360
#COWPOKESFF
SPONSOR ONE OR MORE OF THE CIFF AWARDS AT THE 2025 AWARD SHOW! Just let us know which award you, or your business name would like to sponsor, & we'll mention you or your business name prior to that specific award! It's that easy!! You can also be kept anonymous. If you have any questions, email us at [email protected]
A list of "Award Nominees or Award Nominations" such as "Best Actor", "Best Actress", "Best Feature Film", "Best Short Film", etc., is now listed on the 'Award Nominees' tab above. The deadline for becoming an "Award Sponsor" is April10th 2025.
A Simple Payday - 27 Min
When a couple of dimwitted kidnappers snatch a southern heiress and hold her for ransom, they are instructed to pick up their money in the remote mountains. What was supposed to be a simple payday turns into a dark comedy of errors.
Ambiguous Indifference - 47 Min
Big city book editor Cheryl Long’s car breaks down stranding her in small town Oklahoma. Meeting mechanic Dooley Jax and his eccentric friends, Cheryl encourages Dooley to pen a novel after recognizing his writing prowess. Cheryl tells Dooley to contact her when “its” done. The problem is, does she mean when the book is written or when her car is repaired? Dooley embarks on a trip to Houston to find out.
Bail Out: Showtime - 21 Min
Jimmy O'Neill a Veteran New York Detective, is forced to relocate to Texas after having a run-in with the mob. Now there is a contract out on Jimmy and many of his Brooklyn friends follow him to Texas to help protect and work for him...Including two Angels sent by God.
Bleach Bone - 15 Min
Nine years after murdering his friend in cold blood, Dwain returns to dig up the remains. There, in a bleak field, he reckons with Jay's ghost and struggles to comprehend his own motives.
Campfire - 25 Min
You never know who you'll meet at a campfire.
Devil's Den - 9 Min
Clint, a bounty hunter, is saved by Marshal Slim, a grizzled old cowboy who then demonstrates how to slay a zombie.
Lady Outlaw - 109 Min
Based on the true story of Rose Dunn, Lady Outlaw is a survival tale as three outlaws attempt to make it from Arizona to Ingalls, Oklahoma while hunted by the law and bounty hunters.
Midnight's Ghost - 5 Min
After surviving a harrowing home invasion, a man struggles to find peace as he relives the traumatic event.
Milton - 12 Min
The touching, poignant story of an elderly couple on vacation while struggling with their physical limitations and sharing memories of a life fully lived.
Monsters Within - 100 Min
Life brings Luke Wolf back to his hometown where his sister, who has Down Syndrome, is. Things are different, or maybe it's just that now he's different. After years of running from his problems, Luke must face his monsters.
Mr. Pettigrew - 86 Min
Broken, at the end of the trail, Beau Boone is rescued by Mr. Pettigrew, but what will it cost him?
My Rockstar - 13 Min
"My Rockstar" is a gripping short film based on true events. It follows Amanda (aka “Eva” from the band Eva Under Fire) on her quest to become a rockstar while navigating her father's battle with opiate addiction. The narrative delves into the complexities of familial relationships, highlighting the profound impact addiction has on loved ones.
On the Edge of Freedom - 64 Min
After being arrested on a night of partying, Kai Green is presented with an opportunity to forgo jail time in favor of rehabilitation at a facility in Texas - he begrudgingly takes the deal. At this unique ranch rehabilitation center designed to help people reconnect with nature through total immersion in the cowboy way of life, Kai meets an enigmatic ranch hand who with a firm hand teaches Kai valuable lessons to bring him closer to God.
Out of Sight & Out of Mind - What's in Your Water? - 30 Min
Many people do not know that the water tanks and towers you see around your town are the last stop water makes before being served at your tap. Over time sediment accumulates on the interior floor of these tanks. Sediment buildup in municipal water storage tanks may be a bigger risk to public health than many utility managers think. This short documentary looks at contaminants that have been found in drinking water. The film also includes underwater videos of tank inspections and divers cleaning a water storage tank
Putney's Secret, The Legend of Jack Callahan (Book Trailer) - 2 Min
After departing the Confederate Army amidst controversy, Nahum Putney encounters the dangers of the western frontier. He challenges the wickedness of outlaws Lewis Musgrave
and Ed Franklin. Yet, their malevolence pales in comparison to the nefarious Blood Red Jack Callahan, whom he must ultimately face.
Reditus - 13 Min
A decorated combat veteran struggles with PTSD and the loss it has caused in his life.
Scars Run Deep - 64 Min
Two families bound by blood controlling the underworld.
Spicy Garlic Spaghetti - 7 Min
Ahhh...The art of cooking spaghetti. This is a short silly comedy cooking show made for a 72-hour film contest.
The Awakening Of Jacob Crown - 17 Min
Jacob has an eye-opening talk with God while on a 25-mile walk.
The Ballad of Two Sisters - 8 Min
A music video that tells the story of two sisters. And a duel.
The Castle of Baron Finch - 22 Min
English physician Dr. Cushing comes to Germany on the trail of the sadistic vampire that captured his wife. Can he save his spouse's soul or will she be another victim to Baron Finch?
The Drowning Pool - 12 Min
Ariadna, a former police officer, is now a detective shocked by the recent death of her mother due to Covid. In the midst of this, she must find a child who has been kidnapped after school.
The Fields Are Burning - 42 Min
The aftermath of a devastating battle leaves only two survivors, an aging Union soldier named Joe, and a cowardly Confederate soldier named Gabriel. Joe is gravely wounded and after collecting medical supplies and food he sets off on a journey to reach the site of his late wife's grave, hoping to make it his final resting place. Uninjured and hungry for Union blood,
young Gabriel notices Joe leaving the battlefield and begins to follow him hoping for an easy kill.
The Fight - 7 Min
When a young boy is haunted by a sinister shadow figure, he and his teenage sister must confront their worst fears alone during a night of babysitting, forcing them to unite and fight for their
survival against the unseen terror.
The Fools Of The Waterlogged Cafe - 18 Min
Four friends have a game of Mus pending in an abandoned cantina. Like his town, destroyed due to the construction of a dam. Old grudges reappear between some of them.
The Resilient Church - 76 Min
The church as an organization in America is dying. That's a fact. Yet one church in a small rural town has found the keys to resilience. This documentary film examines the story of the First Baptist Church of Calvert, Texas and provides tools for other churches to find their own resilience.
The Roping Fools - 90 Min
In “The Roping Fools”, we journey through the captivating history of the western art of Trick Roping as it evolves from the Mexican Vaqueros to the dazzling arenas of American Rodeos. This documentary unveils a story of resilience, entertainment, and the enduring legacy of an underground culture. The film explores the unique characters who made their names in the spotlight, early figures like Will Rogers and Montie Montana, and more modern figures like legendary Charro, Tomas Garcilazo (Winner of Go Big Show) and Wild West Performer Loop Rawlins (AGT, Kingsman The Golden Circle). The documentary is a celebration of the generations of dedicated artists who preserved this captivating tradition. "The Roping Fools" offers a glimpse into the hidden world of trick roping, where skill and tradition intertwine to create a mesmerizing spectacle that continues to defy the test of time.
The Story of the Rockport-Fulton Art Colony - 13 Min
The small Texas Gulf Coast towns of Rockport and Fulton have supported the oldest continuing art colony in Texas since 1948. This film tells the story of its founder, Simon Michael, and his students, who created a robust art tradition with scenes of the area’s coastal landscapes, harbor life and wildlife. Michael’s continuing legacy is documented with the community being named “one of the top ten coastal art colonies in the US.” Interviews with representative artists recount how Michael’s students built a robust art association that continues as the Rockport Center for the Arts with its long-standing Rockport Art Festival. The Colony’s contributions to conservation are also noted through the artwork of its Sporting Artists, who helped pass legislation to protect habitat and wildlife. The Rockport Cultural Arts District, designated by the State of Texas as one of 54 in the State to honor its artistic heritage, produced the film as part of its continuing activities to preserve and promote the art colony. Film maker Carla Tank is a journalist who moved to Rockport from Brazil.
The Strange Story of Blasting Betty - 12 Min
A lone woman enters a saloon in the wild west but gets into all sorts of trouble with the locals.
The Unsung Heroes Behind the Flying Tigers - 5 Min
In August of 2024, I visited Hunan Province, China, to record the remarkable valor of local villagers whose ancestors saved American pilots (commonly called the Flying Tigers) during World War II. The resulting documentary, The Unsung Heroes Behind the Flying Tigers, spotlights the great acts of love and solidarity that exceeded cultural and racial boundaries during one of history’s most dreadful times. This work pays tribute to the unsung heroes whose sacrifices demonstrate that courage and humanity can blossom even amidst war. It serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to sustain peace and honor the spirit of those who came before us.
The Wolf In The Chute - 33 Min
Braylon Johnson is a three-time World Champion cowboy. In 'The Wolf In The Chute,' we learn about the art of bronc riding, the life of a modern-day cowboy, and the sport of rodeo. We follow him on his path to Las Vegas on a mission to capture his fourth world title buckle.
We're Here. - 50 Min
As the record-breaking wildfires subsided across the Texas Panhandle, director Lee Wells quickly gathered a camera crew and headed West with feed and hope to deliver to the ranchers who had lost almost everything.
Who Would Love You Now? - 3 Min
Who Would Love You Now? is a snarky, original song by the next incarnation of Americana Artist, Shayna Barber, as "Illusions of Eleanor." Snazzy pedal steel and foot stompin' acoustic guitar drive this up tempo, mean little song. This kooky music video was filmed by a frozen lake in Montana as cold as your ex's heart.
Yesteryear Once More - 21 Min
Episode #4 in the "Robo Hills" Time Travel/Western/Sci-Fi series. Sheriff Dalton finds himself back in the town of Robo Hills at Mary Grace's cabin one week after the jailhouse explosion.
Campfire
Two out of work cowboys reflect on Christmas when a visitor arrives.
Strike Hard
When a dark Cthulhu loving, drug dealing death cult invades El Paso, one man stands in their way. Sheriff Marshall Law deals Texas Justice, with a capital T. Strike Hard!
That's the Way It Is
A teenage boy in the 1850's is confronted by two outlaws who try to rob him. Eleven years later the teenager is now grown and a Deputy U. S. Marshal. He is looking for a fugitive. In the small town of Round Mountain, Texas, he comes face to face with the same two men who had tried to rob him years ago. There is an undercurrent of hostility that indicates the men all served together in the Confederacy.
The Stolen
During the native-on-native slave trade in 1854 Utah, a fearful and ill-equipped father must rescue his daughter from the slaver who destroyed his childhood.
The Survivor
The lone survivor of an alien mining camp attack, Kel must wait out the next four days until a rescue shuttle arrives to take him home. Until then, he must deal with power
fluctuations and failing systems with his only assistance coming from the AI computer system of an orbiting satellite.
There's a Snake in My Boot
In search of the person who murdered their parents, three sisters and their housekeeper engage in absurd antics inside with the enigmatic residents of a Wester tow, each with a secret for their own, all within the walls of the local saloon.
You Can Burn
A sheriff and prisoner form an unlikely partnership to fight off a gang of sadistic killers.
Ben Kool of Conley Ranch
In the rugged landscape of Arizona, Conley Ranch tells the story of Ben Kool, a rancher haunted by a violent past, seeking peace in the solitude of the desert. When a wave of dangerous intrusions threatens his family and home, Ben is thrust into a world of conflict and betrayal. As tensions rise and loyalties are tested, Conley Ranch delves into themes of survival, honor, and the enduring spirit of those who call the land home. Amidst the dust and shadows, Ben must protect his legacy and confront the dangers lurking in the wild. With gripping suspense and vivid desert landscapes, Conley Ranch captures the essence of resilience and the fight to preserve a way of life.
Jimmy & Celeste’s Sunrise Romance: A Geek Dragon Tale
Celeste Lanette slipped into the Commander’s blue office and scanned the premises. After her Cyber Qualifier, the Sunrise slayer had failed miserably. Her horizon magic was on the fritz, and there wasn’t an Electra warrior who would fly wing to her. Dementia was closing in fast, and if she wanted to attain a perfect military record, then she had one last shot at Lord Corleone. The Glamorous Little Cutie relayed an intergalactic message, which bounced from the Bay Area headquarters to a field agent’s home. Suddenly, a tank-sized giant appeared on the screen. The moment he saw her, James Giordano’s mouth dropped open. “My god, you’re a Sunrise slayer, and you’re even more beautiful than my poster girl.” Good lord, she was dealing with an amiable powerlifting Geek! Celia extended her palm across time and space and actually touched his hand. “Jimmy, I need your help. I’m losing my mind, and I have one last mission. I need to terminate Corleone, but I don’t know his address.” The amiable inventor was overjoyed by her request. “The Dark Lord is headed for Carpetti’s Castle, and I can bring the hollow point weaponry. Using my photon assault rifles, sniper weapons, and Beretta laser guns, we can take ‘em down.” The Lady Slayer’s chances were dwindling, and her only ally was a handsome wonky inventor. She squeezed his hand in desperation. “Does the Beretta flash bang create an elliptical plane? Can I ricochet off the laser ellipse, and drop behind the enemy?” Jimmy beamed with pride, “Oh, absolutely. And while you’re doing that, I’ll strafe ‘em with my assault rifle, and the Dark Ones will be toast!” Celeste didn’t have any choices. “Meet me at Carpetti’s grape arbor in one hour.” Just then, Celia had a vision. She saw herself as a Fire Breather, a Dragon-Winged Lady Seer, and Jimmy’s wingmate. If she was gonna finish this op, she’d start out as a slayer and end up as a dragon. But if she wanted to succeed, she had to do whatever it takes. And becoming a dragon might not be… all that bad….
Naughty Little Druid & Dare Dragon: Dragon Fantasy Romance
The Dewy Scottish Beauty left the safety of the glen. Kenzie could feel the veil of protection disappear. She could taste the freedom. Tomorrow was her first day, and she wanted to wow ‘em with a sexy leather skirt and rip up the playing fields. She was on a soccer scholarship, and she had a load of awesome moves. No sooner did she arrive, the Twilight World exploded. Her roomie was a flirtatious Fairy, and her Architectural Prof was a leering Wolf. No way this could be happening. Fairies and Wolves don’t exist. But her day became even more bizarre. She saw an uncouth Ogre, and one very friendly Dragon. Kenzie was slowly losing her mind. Lord Aidan arrived at the Scottish University. The Clan Leader tasked him with an assignment, and his job was to befriend an unstable Seer and make sure she didn’t turn. The Dewy Lass, Kenzie, wasn’t the least bit dangerous. He met her a day ago, and the carefree Co-ed enjoyed naughty glamours. It was nothing more than role playing. But when she rejected the Twilight World, Aidan became worried. He enlarged into a giant Fire Breather, and still, she wouldn’t believe. A Powerful Seer, living in denial, spelled disaster. Kenzie thought he was crazy, but she loved his gift, and the Cambridge grad was quite charming. Maybe she’d give him another chance. Lord Aidan forcibly turned her, and Kenzie became a Winged Lady Seer. Blessed with visionary foresight, she could behold the future, and destroy her enemies. The Seer hungered for absolute power, and never again would she play the victim. Moments later, the Dewy Beauty shifted into a Life-Giving Goddess. Aidan was stunned, but he sympathized. “If you’re to exact revenge, you’ll need to know who you are, and who your birth parents are.” He furrowed his brows, “And the place to start is Stonehenge. Somehow, you’re connected to the Druids.” His words hit her like a gut punch. If she didn’t find her birth parents, the Dark Ones would win. It was do or die, and Kenzie never gave up. The odds were one to a billion. She was counting on a miracle and one deluded Dragon. Was she out of her mind? Only time would tell….
Putney's Law, The Trial of Deidre O'Neill
In 1884 Fort Worth, justice is not always righteous. When Deidre O’Neill is accused of murder it becomes the task of Nahum Putney, Imogene Foster and others to ensure
justice is true. And it is up to Nahum Putney to exact the kind of justice to deter the evil that is pervasive in a corrupt system.
The Trail Ends in Texas
Cowboy rides his pony from Texas to Montana trying to locate anyone who might have the resolution to his unanswered questions. Along the way, he meets a teenage runaway, a rich-kid cattle baron, a ten-foot-tall wild bear hell-bent on doing him harm. Cowboy learns that home is a good place to be, None such better.
Vic Carson
Into northern Arizona, rides a woman, a woman of the west, Vic Carson. When Dan Sloan hires her to care for a remote ranch, he has no ideas, the wheels he puts in motion. His round-up boss, Monk, finds that this slip of a girl is more than equal to the task. Follow along and see what things befall this crew of top hands.
2025 COWPOKES SCREENPLAY / MANUSCRIPT SYNOPSIS
