Outstanding First Screenplay
The Outstanding First Screenplay category recognizes the incredible talent of debut screenwriters who have crafted compelling and innovative narratives for the screen. This year’s nominees have made a significant impact with their first scripts, demonstrating remarkable storytelling and creative vision.
Blink Twice
Zoë Kravitz
Zoë Kravitz’s Blink Twice is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into identity, trust, and betrayal with sharp dialogue and a nuanced exploration of character. In addition to this nomination, Kravitz is also nominated for Outstanding Director, Outstanding Independent Film, and Outstanding Emerging Director for the same film. This is Kravitz’s sixth Bolt nomination overall, marking her as a standout multi-hyphenate talent.
Exhibiting Forgiveness
Titus Kaphar
Titus Kaphar’s Exhibiting Forgiveness is a visually rich and emotionally profound story that explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and societal reckoning. In addition to this nomination, Kaphar is also nominated for Outstanding Film, Outstanding Director, Outstanding Screenplay, and Outstanding Emerging Director. This marks Kaphar’s fifth Bolt nomination this year, showcasing his exceptional storytelling abilities across multiple facets of filmmaking.
Nickel Boys
RaMell Ross
RaMell Ross’s Nickel Boys is a powerful adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, weaving a story of resilience and the enduring impact of systemic injustice. Moss has also earned nominations this year for Outstanding Director, Outstanding Screenplay, and Outstanding Emerging Director for the same film. This is Ross’s fourth nomination this year and fifth Bolt nomination overall, further solidifying his place as a visionary storyteller.
Parallel
Aldis & Edwin Hodge
Aldis and Edwin Hodge’s Parallel is a thought-provoking science fiction narrative that explores themes of identity, destiny, and alternate realities through a compelling and original lens. This is Edwin Hodge’s first Bolt nomination, while Aldis Hodge earns his fourth Bolt nomination overall, having previously been recognized for his acting work in Outstanding Supporting Actor and Outstanding Breakthrough Actor categories. The Hodge brothers bring fresh perspectives to the screenplay category with this innovative debut.
The Piano Lesson
Malcolm Washington
Malcolm Washington’s The Piano Lesson is a masterful adaptation of August Wilson’s iconic play, balancing the story’s historical roots with a fresh and emotionally resonant perspective. Washington is also nominated for Outstanding Director, Outstanding Screenplay, and Outstanding Emerging Director for the same project. This is his fourth nomination this year, highlighting his versatility as a writer and director.