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Join. Participate. Learn. Grow. Teach. Here's a great chance to get honest feedback on your work, learn to give great feedback (also a real learning experience), and to hone your screenwriting art and craft. Newbie, wannabe, experienced or pro, this is a site and contest where you benefit by your participation.

I've entered about 3 contests this year, and I have to say that the feedback given is some of the most insightful that I have ever received. The contest is very professionally run, and the different requirements allow you to challenge yourself creatively. I definitely recommend this contest to anyone looking to improve in their writing.

I entered my first short in March 2009 and decided to stick with the contests and the site.

The site is amazing and the feedback offered by the members is honest and helpful. My writing improved from reviewing as well as from writing and polishing my own pieces. The feedback is honest but never slamming - moderators are constantly on the watch.

Try it, you'll love it.

I've entered 15+ contests at Movie Poet and found that it's the best place to get great (and FREE) feedback on my writing.

My screenwriting skills have improved dramatically since I joined Movie Poet. I used to stay away from writing "shorts" but I've found that as O get better at writing five pagers, my features are improving as well.

I'm elated to have two scripts make semifinals and one make the finals. From a purely "how well is it run?" aspect, I'm very impressed with this contest. I accidentally entered one script twice over a two month period and they promptly refunded my entry. They've basically hit all deadlines too.

One can only imagine the arguments between the judges as they advocate for certain scripts as they move from quarters to semis to finals....the competition must be pretty fierce as you get down to the later rounds. I'm very grateful to have one make it this far.

I have a great romantic Comedy screenplay regarding about Chinese and America culture that would like to submit it to your coming up film contest. I would like to know how much registration fee I should pay and what do you want me to send to you. Can I send it on-line?

Thanks!

Mei Wu

Well, it's been one year since the cowrite contest and I want to know where's the "rewritten" final script? I've written two scripts since the conclusion of this contest in august and I'm curious to see the final product.

Even though the script (had to) be a page one rewrite, I think the two writers that won should have been able to churn out a rewrite by now.

I made the semi-finals but didn't make the finals. Though they were two weeks late announcing the first cut, the unexpected and extremely helpful feedback I received from a reader more than made up for it. I plan on entering again next year with a different screenplay.

There are too many bad comments about this one? About the BlueCat Screenpay Contest? This really makes me reconsider any advice I get from these boards. Do some research. BlueCat is one of the few, true, pure, influential and helpful contests. Seriously... this comment makes me reconsider ever clicking on the "comments" section...

This was a fun contest. My script didn't place in obvious significance, but I confirm that the competition is handled professional. My e-mails always were answered in a relative short time. The screenplay analysis was extensive, very well thought through, and suggestions to better the writing was presented gentle and with it constructive. I must comment on the honesty of what the reader thought about some of the ideas of my script, so honest and cute, that I had to laugh out loud when I read the critique. I am impressed and thankful to have entered into the contest. I totally recomment this contest and the analysis is worth the money.

I didn't win or even place, but have to admit, this is a good contest. All you can ask for is that your screenplay is read carefully and it was here. While I disagreed with the review, I can't say it wasn't valid.

(I get a sense that they're looking for uplifting screenplays -- so you might want to think twice if your protagonist isn't sympathetic.)

I am a grand prize winner from a few years back. I received copies of the produced film and must say that it was very well done. In fact, it's been accepted at the Clermont-Ferrand Intl. Short Film Festival. Pretty cool.

These people run a professional competition.

I was psyched to see that my 3 entries made semi-finals and then saw that Irin Evers had 5 make it, including "The Junior Detectives and the Cities of Gold." That one seems to be winning everywhere. Unbelievable! Congrats Mr. Evers!

I am one of the finalists in this contest. They delivered on all of their promises; communicated quickly and efficiently and have offered follow up. Mark has responded in a timely fashion to all of my questions and, most importantly, has seen that my script has been delivered to producers and agents&that's what it's all about.

The Chicago contest was first rate in every sense. Prizes were handed out promptly, everyone was friendly and helpful, and the awards dinner was a lot of fun. Best yet, I got a chance to meet a really talented group of writers I wouldn't have met otherwise.

The most valuable prize was, to me, the chance to get my script considered by roughly a dozen production companies, one of whom told me that they put my script in their "consider" pile for future projects. Chicago Screenwriters is a contest run BY writers FOR writers, and the difference really shows!

I am very happy now to be a part of story pros competition. Thank you.

Very professionally done. Deadlines were met. And the contest helps promote the winning scripts. Impressive for a first year contest.

The quote that the Moviebytes software lost is ...

If you like art, don't make a movie, buy a Picasso - Michael Winner

<> - Michael Winner, Film Director

With 250,000 screenplays arriving in Tinseltown a year, and a meagre 650 or so being made, the odds are horrendously stacked against any "newbie". Writing Osacr-worthy material is not an objective, but a starting point for one's screenplay if one wants it produced.

...and the hard fact of life is that not accepting bitter pill of criticism effectively locks one out of Hollywood and makes the whole writing a script a pointless exercise.

Gordy and co's critiques are usually 80 to 90% spot on. I cannot disagree that often they are scattergun in nature, but faced with an amateur script that would need a tome the size of War & Peace to describe its flaws, any reviewer can only give what THEY PERCEIVE to be the worst weaknesses in one's work. ANd when that is fixed, the next reviewer will, consequently provide another slew of blood-letting albeit invaluable criticisms.

Sadly, it is true at times that Bluecat often fixes deadlines for themselves that would be inhuman to meet and if one was to offer a critique on Gordy's work, one would have to say that this is a big area to look into. Even so, one should remain patient to him as he is always prepared to be with us. Indeed, I look back in horror when I once sent a blunt email to him on why my review had not arrived on time. He took no offence when others would have, and merely still sent a well balanced and totally polite review a mere one day late that massively helped my screenplay to make a big leap forward.

On a value for money, only Big Bear Lake comes anywhere close in my experience, and, even if I do not always agree with the often painfully candid criticisms, I really would thoroughly recommend Bluecat to would-be writer.

All their cash seems to go on a flashy website to attract suckers rather than giving a service that could be described as anything other than lousy. And at such toppy prices, it's really left a very bad taste in my mouth on both occasions that I tried.

My experience was rather bad. They never bother with you unless you outright win.

The ridiculous shortage of film festival screenplay contests sadly gives this some significance. Despite this, I really can't face chucking any money away on these deeply disheartening Canada International Film Festival Contests/

Gentlemen, No worries -- we've received both of your entries. You will have received a confirmation on the site when ordering that your entry sent -- we send confirmation emails once each order is reviewed, but your contest entry does not rely on that confirmation e-mail. Once you enter online, everything is handle automatically, and you are officially entered. If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail us at john@storypros.com and we'll answer all your questions! Thanks for your entries -- and thanks to everyone who's entered! Good luck everyone! :-)

This contest is canceled, correct?

i havent received a confirmation yet from you whether you have received all the details needed to enter the contest. please do give a reply

i havent received a confirmation yet from you whether you have received all the details needed to enter the contest. please do give a reply

This is my first contest and I am upset. I have not recieved confirmation. They could at least email what I have done wrong. I realized I did not email the general release. So I re-sent my script with the general release and still no confirmation. Am I missing something? I have payed and everything, and have 1 day left till deadline. Someone please help, I am only 19 years old and this is my first competition.

Only allow submission via a laughably dysfunctional website. Tried for TWO HOURS to attach my screenplay in either PDF or FDR, but the BROWSE button is completely broken. Don't know how anyone else is managing to enter. Is this some form of Intelligence Test or just a sick joke? And no telephone number to seek help with misifiring Entry Form, just another email form that also appears to be totally broken as well. Total waste of time!

This contest is now closed. The max number of scripts was received.

I don't want to tell you how to spend your contest money, but for me personally, I wish I hadn't entered this one and I most certainly never will in the future.

The "something like superbad" vision of the plot ended up feeling like a trailer for "spy kids" or "agent cody banks". And I know there's a market for those movies, but it's not something I wanted to write and I already paid the entry fee by the time I realised what it had devolved into.

The 10-page concept wasn't working either since the pages were chosen based on how exciting those 10-pages were and not based on whether or not they advanced the actual plot of the whole.

All in all I'd suggest this contest be avoided, in the same manner a serious producer might avoid the final script that comes from it.

I was one of the six writers chosen for the 2009 program. Give this contest and the mentors selected an A+! The winners were flown in and set up at a hotel in mid-Atlanta. The workshop took place at the Margaret Mitchell House. Rare opportunity to have one-on-one sessions with top professionals and we all had a great time. The other writers selected for the program were diverse and extremely helpful as well.

There was a staged reading of ten pages from our screenplays Saturday night. Lot of fun times. Great job by the Atlanta Film Fest folks putting this event together.

Two other notes: (1) This year there were 250 entrants -- much better odds than many other contests; and (2) They support filmmakers and are seeking a distinct new voice. Give this contest a shot!

Good luck and thanks again to everyone who made this such a special event.

Professional and courteous. I will enter this contest again.

I've been to the expo twice now and both times proved to be very productive. I went down to LA to take a few classes, mingle with other writers and to pitch. Both times I purchased pitch tickets on site (late), but there were still some good choices left. Also, there were good companies that waited until the day before or the day of to be listed. There were plenty of choices for pitching, even for a procrastinator like me. (Actually, the first year my registration and pitches were covered by the American Gem Screenplay contestanother good contest!)

I went to all the classes I needed and they were very helpful and CHEAP!!! Good luck finding classes for this amount anywhere else. One of the companies I was going to pitch to pulled out at the last minute and was replaced by another company. I was a little concerned that the new company may not care for my ''Family-friendly'' type writing and asked an Expo volunteer about them. She immediately went into the pitching hall and inquired for me. She came back and told me they were happy to listen to my pitch and yes they were interested in family films. She was one busy lady, but she took the time to check things out for me (I wish I caught her name — not tall, not young, not old, wore a pink visor and was always smiling. Whoever you are — thank you!)

I have placed in many contests, but I didn't even make the quarter finals in this one and yet I still got on the plane. I knew it would be worth the trip just as it had been last year. Pitching to real warm bodies beats sending of hundreds of query letters. I ''googled'' the names of all the people I pitched to last year and they were the real thing, not the assistant to the backroom secretary, etc, etc.

I appreciate the Expo staff more than I can say!

Simply put. This is a great contest and there is no one who supports the writer more than Donna. I have entered three monthly contests and received honorable mention in one.

Whenever I had a question, no matter how simple or complex, she responded immediately and with great advice. Because of her, I was able to get my script into the hands of some pretty big people. I was very impressed.

What struck me most about this contest was the detailed and extremely helpful analysis. The readers were encouraging and spot-on where the script needed improvement.

I asked her if I could resubmit the revised script that placed and she said it wouldn't be eligible again because it already received honorable mention but that I could enter and receive the analysis. Well, that's exactly what I wanted...the analysis... so I sent it back in. Short story long...Donna runs a very professional contest. I highly recommend Script Savvy.

Over the last four years I entered this contest three times and each year my entry moved up the rounds. I was so pleased when I reached the semi finalists last year. I am also very excited about Kaos Films launching the feature contest which I will be entering this year. I know some people have said it's a bit pricey -that's an individual thing. For me it's okay.

Smart, intuitive, current. Seem genuinely interested in the story, the writer and promotion of the finalists.

Very positive worthwhile experience.

Larry Myles runs a great contest. The notes he provides are absolutely great and will help you reach the next level in your sceenplay. There are only a handful of contests that provide this kind of coverage, and Red Ink Works is one of them!

The Cinestory retreat was a truly memorable experience. I would urge anyone who is serious about screenwriting to enter their contest. And if you are selected, GO to the retreat. You will not be disappointed!

Three months after the conclusion of the cowrite contest and still not a peep on the progress of the (page one rewrite) of the script.

Michael, it is based on your comment that I went to the Ozark Foothills website and printed out the screenplay 2010 entry form. I gather most would overlook such a low-key contest sponsored by a film fest that takes place in Arkansas, but I always look forward to finding overlooked gems. It didn't specify any particular genre so I have to decide on what script to send in. Congrats on your former 2nd place finish. Too bad for me I have to compete with you in the 2010 competition! OH well, . . . .

I am submitting to this contest this year. I figure, statistically, anything's possible.

I would like to submit to many others high profile contests but the state of the economy has left me very conscientious about every little dollar. I wish some of the more notable screenwriting contests would slash their fees in half. We're struggling screenwriters not A list writer talent. I mean, really . . .

Congratulations to T. L. Lewis and Rhys Gledhill in their top placements in the 1st Annual Greenlight competition. A great accomplishment. Also honorable mention Richard Sartore. I am looking forward to entering the monthly competitions being offered. It is so cool to be part of growth. Thank you to all the judges and Gordon Rogerson for the contest. Keep it going.

I've entered in the contest, but waiting for the results which it won't be announced for awhile. For the other blogs and posts, I've heard this is a genuine contest.

.

Expo SCAM exposed!



***********************************



Author: Irin Evers Posted: 10/21/09 04:48 PM CS/Expo responded to my recent letter (in the previous post, but I'll also post it at the bottom of this). I won't even comment as not to bias you, but tell me what you honestly think:

Irin,

Thank you very much for taking the time to write. I agree that the Expo Screenplay Competition can certainly be improved. Improvements are in the works. We will announce them when ready. I also agree, very strongly, as does the contest manager, Pasha McKenley, that the contest should have been started and ended earlier. Events beyond our control caused delays in the start and end this year.

However, the rest of your criticism is simply incorrect or based on faulty assumptions.

First, regarding the message boards: It is very easy -- and quite cowardly -- to disparage under the cloak of anonymity. When one responds, they gang up in ways that they wouldn't dare do if they had the post their names. Also, have you ever seen one of the anonymous disparagers post, "I sold a script!"? I haven't.

Our contests and pitch fest, to the contrary, have had many success stories -- in fact, many more than we have publicly bragged about.

You wrote: "...you are not giving what was promised ... I think most serious writers would agree that they entered because of the promise of industry connections at the Expo...You did not give Semifinalists and Finalists (or even Quarterfinalists) a chance to make use of this exposure at the Expo, as you promised."

I am truly puzzled as to how you got this so dead wrong. Here are the promises we make to contest entrants with regard to industry access:

1. We promise that we will send winning scripts and finalists' log lines and synopses to 300+ production companies, agents, and managers. We have delivered on that promise each year (and will this year).

2. We promised that we would publish articles about winners. We have done so each year and will for this year's winners.

3. We promised additional publicity. The press release about this year's winners has either already gone out, and the winners will be posted at the Expo web site in a day or two. That information will stay there for years, fully searchable.

4. We offer the chance to participate in the Golden Pitch Fest under the terms discussed below, which are not the terms you seem to imagine we offered. Promise kept.

5. This year, we promised to announce winners the night before the Expo started. Promise kept.

We have made no other promise of "industry connections" or "a chance to use this exposure at the Expo."

In addition, behind the scenes, our remarkable contest manager, Pasha McKenley -- the best contest manager the Creative Screenwriting enterprise has ever had, by far -- is in constant contact with development executives and production companies, quietly passing along contestants' scripts behind the scenes.

Have you written to Pasha for help, ideas, or to just get a little attention for your work? Or to ask if any executives are interested in the screenplays you entered in our contests? No? Yet here you are, crabbing at us.

You chose not to come to the Expo --apparently because you wanted to see your contest status before you registered. You do not seem to understand the process for obtaining pitch tickets. It is the same now as it was in 2006: those who sign up for the Expo early --in June and early July, months before the contest is judged -- get the best access to pitch tickets. Everyone gets to buy tickets in the order he/she registered for the Expo. Waiting for a contest announcement before deciding to attend the Screenwriting Expo means that if you did attend and seek pitch tickets, you would be browsing through the leftover tickets by the time the link to buy tickets is sent to you.

It always was that way (including 2006), and we are not going to change that. The Screenwriting Expo is a costly, financially risky event. Many big bills come due well in advance. We intentionally reward those who help us reduce the financial risks giving them the best access to pitch tickets.

You seem to imply that the main or only reason for attending the Screenwriting Expo would have been just to pitch. Your criticisms imply that your scripts are great and your failure to sell is our fault.

We had four sessions at the Expo this year specifically aimed at you -- yes, you personally, and others similarly situated. Two of them were writers who have managed to sell from afar, giving their how-to. The third was a panel of contest winners, headed by 2008 AAA contest winner Chris Canole*, on strategies to leverage contest victories into career progress as a screenwriter. The fourth was another panel Chris put together of contest managers on how to use their (including our) contests to further your writing career. You chose not to come to the Expo and attend them.

* By the way: guess who was among the first to register for the Expo and was THE first to buy pitch tickets this year: Chris Canole. And he told me after the pitchfest that he had a lot of industry inquiries. You, with multiple contest victories, stayed home. I fail to see why that fact is the fault of the Expo Screenplay Competition.

I spent some time at the Expo listening to William Goldman, John Cleese, and Mike Medavoy discussing the state of the industry, how to succeed, and what is selling these days in Hollywood. You missed it.

Regarding Suzanne's Prize: yes, we delayed announcing it until the closing ceremony. But the semifinalists were announced in advance, and the five finalists were announced the evening before the Expo.

Also, this prize is not only an extra benefit, but it is MY prize, given in honor of my deceased wife. You show an extraordinary lack of sensitivity in presuming to complain about a prize that I am giving as an extra benefit at my company's sole expense (and at the expense of my and Suzanne's daughter's time), and which is so personal to me. The candidates for that prize did not complain. So rather than personally insult me, what do you think about showing just a bit more tact on that one?

You also wrote:

"Another bad decision was when the Expo Comp extended its deadline after it had passed. This was unfair to those who submitted on the final day. Was this just an attempt to bring in more money? It sure seems like it. And it was done at the expense of the future Finalists."

Wholly untrue. We stated quite clearly and emphatically what the deadlines were, and that the contest might be extended past the announced deadline at a higher price. Then, we did exactly as stated-- we extended at a higher price. There is nothing "unfair" to you or anyone about our stating the terms and then following them. You could have taken the risk that we might not extend the contest, and paid a higher price to submit later, as many others did.

It is also a fact that most screenwriting contests similarly extend deadlines at higher prices. But you seem to be singling us out for complaint on this point. In fact, in 2006 -- the year you seem to glorify as the golden age of the Expo Screenplay Competition --the former contest management did not state in the instructions and rules that the contest would be extended, then repeatedly promoted the deadline as if it were final -- and then extended at no penalty for latecomers. You snipe at us for an honest, stated extension and claim that a year in which the deadline and extension were dishonestly manipulated was somehow better. Please get your facts right.

Also, hundreds of entries are submitted each year in the final days of the extended deadline, at those higher prices. I imagine that this is true of other contests as well. (Else why would they do these extensions?) Why do writers take that risk and pay more? Quit carping at us and ask them.

As for our motives: we have two. One is to provide those writers with those last-minute habits an opportunity to enter, and pay that 7-11 premium over supermarket prices. The other is to help us pay the bills. You seem to think there is something impure or immoral about making enough money to pay the bills here. I don't.

Regarding your proposed schedule, thank you for trying. I won't go into detail about why it won't work, but as stated earlier. I do agree with your point that we need to start and conclude the contest a bit earlier.

Regarding the timing of pitch ticket sales: they will continue to go on sale the week before the Expo because that is the only rational way to run a pitch fest which is structured like ours. Presumably you have never attempted to run a pitch fest. Ours is very effective and well organized. So I think you need to leave the decisions on the timing of pitch ticket sales to us.

In closing, I have this to say regarding "taking the Expo off my list.." --

I have the same answer to you as I had in the magazine for "Betty" who wrote that our contests are bogus and our other products aren't helping her: Yes, OF COURSE, try something else if our offerings aren't helping you. Shop around, try other contests, other services and products, other opportunities, other approaches. If they work for you, wonderful. If not, re-examine.

Good luck to you. But do take responsibility for your choices.

Bill Donovan Editor and Publisher Creative Screenwriting Magazine



irin evers wrote: > How to save the Expo Screenwriting Competition&

> The title above may be throwing you off. You may not think the Expo Screenwriting Competition needs saving. But trust me, the word of mouth via email and on the boards (moviebytes, done deal pro, etc.) has been scathing. I'm only taking the time to write this out of disappointment on what the contest was and can be.

> I was a Quarterfinalist in 2006 and attended the Expo. I was also a Quarterfinalist this year. If you asked me just two years ago to name the top 5 contests I'd want to place at the top of, Expo would've been one of those. But now, I'm taking the Expo off my list and don't plan to enter again unless huge changes are made.

> The Expo Screenwriting Comp has the unique ability to really help up-and-coming writers at the Expo events (such as the Golden Pitch). When I pitched in 2006, it was a big plus to mention that I was a Quarterfinalist in the contest.

> How things have changed: This year (and in other recent years), the Expo Comp contest placements were not announced on time or with enough notice for out-of-towners to attend. This year, the Quarterfinalists were announced 8 days before the Expo. The Semifinalists were announced the day of the Expo (and by email, the day after). And the Finalists were announced 2 days before the Expo. I've also been told that Suzanne's Prize was not even awarded at the award ceremony and still has to be decided. This is embarrassing. This competition has been around for many years and you should know the approximate amount of submissions, and how long it will take to review them and decide on the winners.

> More importantly, you are not giving what was promised and the most important thing of all. I would love to deposit $20,000 in my bank account, but I think most serious writers would agree that they entered because of the promise of industry connections at the Expo, not the $20K. You did not give Semifinalists and Finalists (or even Quarterfinalists) a chance to make use of this exposure at the Expo, as you promised.

> There are many festivals and awards ceremonies and it's difficult to have the time and money for all of them. Many writers wait to see how they place before deciding to attend. But that wasn't possible with the Expo. How many Semifinalists and Finalists attended the awards and the Expo this year? How many that live outside of LA? Were they able to buy pitch tickets after they found out that they had placed in the Expo Comp?

> Another bad decision was when the Expo Comp extended its deadline after it had passed. This was unfair to those who submitted on the final day. Was this just an attempt to bring in more money? It sure seems like it. And it was done at the expense of the future Finalists.

> The rushing of the contest makes writers fear that the decisions were made quickly and that many scripts didn't get a fair read. This rushing can also be seen in the sloppiness of typos both on the Expo website and in emails about the Comp (notice the 2008 logo on all 2009 emails, for example).

> Here's what I would do if I were running the Expo Comp (and what should be done):

> 1. The main deadline would be moved up to May 1st. Let's face it most writers are looking at one deadline all year: the Nicholl May 1st deadline. So May 1st isn't a stretch. There are never any extensions to the Nicholl and writers have all year to work toward it.

> 2. There would be a late and FINAL deadline of June 1st - period. This deadline would be posted from the beginning, have a higher fee and would not be extended for any reason whatsoever. If the Expo Comp is worried about not getting enough entries to pay the $20K prize, then that prize should be lower maybe post a $10K winner prize and $2K genre winners prizes, and these can always be raised later (no one would complain about that). But the main thing is the announcement of Finalists one month prior to the Expo and nothing should stop that from happening.

> 3. Announcements: The Quarterfinalists would be announced (emails and on the website) on August 1st. Semifinalists on August 21st. And Finalists on September 15th one month prior to the Expo. These would be done on time or early. Give yourself more time than you think you need. If these are dates not possible (you know better than me and the summer may be a difficult time), then there should be an earlier final deadline to submit, NOT a later announcement. The Finalists would have one month to plan for the Expo. Golden Pitch tickets would go on sale at least one week after that September 15th announcement so that they would have time to buy tickets.

> 4. I would take a close look at similar festivals/contests that pull this off and see how they do it so well like the Austin Film Festival Screenplay Competition.

> Thanks for your time and good luck with the Expo Screenplay Competition.

L Johnverrell, I am sorry you did not win the hollywoodscript.com contest. Don't give up. Doing so is extremely difficult. It hurts. It's exhausting. Craig is a tough task master. He will accept nothing but your best. Listen to him. Keep working. You'll be glad you did.

I entered 17 major contests with my first decent feature screenplay in 2009, and the notes and feedback I received back from "A Feeding Frenzy" were by far the best. They were the most intelligent, detailed, and useful. The feedback document I received was written by Cheryl Herring. Note I did not place in this contest with this script.

Final update on receiving my coverage- after my last email to Slamdance, (which was the twelfth, BYW), I got an email today saying my coverage had been emailed to me in May. I emailed back saying I hadn't received it nor a response to any of my other emails. I received an almost immediate reply with my coverage attached.

The sad part is that the coverage was actually well done and helpful, and I agreed with the content. If I had received it six months ago when I paid to receive it, I would have been able to use it in my revision process.

I did NOT, however, receive the refund for the Fast Track service I paid for, so I guess I ate that $40.00. I would adamantly warn anyone against wasting the money for Fast Track service, if Slam Dance continues to offer it. I just don't think the people running the contest can handle the deadlines.

I would agree that this year's competition went a bit off schedule. For months, there were no updates on their website or any emails.

I actually didn't get an email informing me of the Quarterfinal cut.

BUT I emailed the director, Pasha McKenley, directly and she responded in a prompt and professional manner.

She ironed out my issue re: not getting emails and I soon found out that I had made the Quarterfinals.

I'm happy with the result but not pleased with their non-adherence to a schedule, failure to update their contestants, and their tendency (in my eyes) to select scripts based more-so on Marketability than anything else.

Glad I made the QFs, but not pleased with the overall experience.

The Expo dates are: Oct. 15-18, 2009.

Today is Saturday: Oct. 17, 2009

I just looked at the website and — the Semifinalists have been posted.

BUT

The Finalists have not been decided, and are NOT on the website today.



This is how the contest was run -- after the deadline expired, EXPO extended the contest two more weeks.

WHY extend the deadline? -- Because they wanted more money!

Their greed for money put them in the ringer. There was not enough to finish the screenplay contest.

Stay away from this scam, people.

SCAM ALERT

Is there any word when they will announce the semifinalists and / or finalists?

On April 17, 2009, I paid $155.00 to enter this contest, receive "coverage," and have it fast tracked. The "fast track" portion of the price was $40.00, to receive the coverage in two weeks.

Fast forward to today, October 13, 2009. I received the following four lines of feedback: "Strongest Category: Character" "Weakest Category: Dialogue" "Recommendation: Interesting, with a great female protagonist and action, but is hindered by too many predictable "twists." (Emphasis theirs.)" My name, nor my screenplay name, was mentioned anywhere, but being as it was sent to my email and my screenplay does feature a strong female, I'll assume it is really mine.

These four lines were definitely not worth the $115 I paid for coverage, not to mention there is nothing fast about receiving feedback six months after you pay an extra $40.00 for a two week fast track service.

I contacted Alex via email eleven times, beginning May 4, 2009. I received only two responses, one May 13, 2009, saying she would follow up on it, and after I contacted her again, a second email on May 26, 2009, saying I would get my coverage that p.m. and a refund of my $40.00 fast track fee. Needless to say, I never received either.

I am not disputing the validity of the contest- I understand it is supposed to be one of the better ones. I do suggest it is poorly managed, and I would advise anyone considering entering NOT to pay for the coverage OR the fast track, since Slam Dance apparently can not follow through with their end of the obligation.

If they were half as diligent in providing the services I paid for as they were in running my credit card through for charges, they would have one hell of a contest.

I sent another email today and will update this if I ever receive my $115.00 worth of coverage, although it is too late for it to be "fast tracked."

In the meantime, I wouldn't advise wasting your money on anything other than the contest fee.

I have to say, I spent a lot of money on this contest. Took a big gamble. I spent the full amount, allowing me to enter every division of the contest. I ended up entering the first couple, was so put off by the caliber of winners I backed off, then took another single stab at it, and was again so blown away by the utter lack in the ability for the "Judges", whomever they were, or should I say, "he" was, to know what good writing, storytelling, character, or of all things, something interesting was, I finally stopped entering. It seemed the only way to win or to place, or even show was to write incredibly trite, cliched garbage with a big explosion, or some plot twist that was plain inane.

The creators of the contest gave no direction, no feedback along the way, which was crucial to us writers since it was a moving target of a screenplay. It was being created over an Eleven week period, and guidance as to why the entries were picked, or where the story might go would have helped. The story definitely didn't fit the original idea, concept or storyline outlined.

The "Professionals" added absolutely nothing to the contest. They were just figure heads who exclaimed how Amazing, Wonderful, Incredible, and BRILLIANT the contest idea was and the entries were. None of which had a shred of truth. From their coverage, they couldn't possibly have been reading the scripts. The whole screenplay was an absolute utter mess.

A rewrite, which is in the works supposedly, is there to fix the errors. Thing is, a rewrite needs something to begin with. This has nothing. So basically it is going to be a brand new story from page one. Except they neatly happened to choose the same winner for the beginning and ending ten pages of the garbage, so it will maintain a few of their lame ideas I am sure. I have a feeling these two writers who one the first, last, and rewrite ability, must have been friends of Todd, THE MAN BEHIND THE CURTAIN. They most certainly were not screenwriters of any caliber. Just friends in an advantageous spot.

This Contest should be eliminated. Don't buy into it.

This is a follow up to my earlier critique complaining about the sarcastic tone of the notes I received when I entered the contest. While I agreed with much of what he said needed work, I thought the notes were not presented in a professional manner and seemed more designed to insult than to help.

Since that time, Andy from 20/20 emailed me to clear the air and clarify his remarks. He indicated he re-read my screenplay and offered me some further insight, this time in a professional way.

Although I had no problem with the substance of the original notes, I respect Andy and his contest for following up with me, a contest entrant, and attempting to resolve the issue I had with the tone of those notes.

The feedback I received from the StoryPros Awards Contest was exemplary, absolutely top-notch. As writers, we all weave key themes and elements through our stories -- and it's frustrating when people miss them. We know they're there, but somehow they prove inexplicably elusive to some readers. Not so with StoryPros. I found their team to be insightful, perceptive, and very professional. I highly recommend their contest, and I intend to use their coverage service in the near future.

I entered the contest and received my notes from the reader.

I made corrections to the script as specified, cleaned up the weak areas and paid the resubmission fee.

A different person ended up reading my resubmission copy. When I revived my second notes from the second reader — there were a completely new set of issues that were not included on the first notes.

Gordy said he'll work out his internal control problems. And I hope he does!



Then I started adding up the numbers.

The year 2009 screenplay contest had 3,200 entries.

3.200 entries at $65.00 entry fee = $208,000 dollars.

3,200 resubmissions at $35.00 = $112,000 dollars.

And I'm not including the money received from script analysis and workshops -- another service that Bluecat offers!

Hey all!

I've been noticing a TON of negative feedback directed at Creative Screenwriting

For what it is worth, I have NEVER had a previous relationship with CS, Pasha, or anyone running the contests - I took 2nd place in AAA with no influence other than my own script

I felt like my script was read and the judging was extremely fair - as far as proof goes, we have won two other contests (Script Savvy and The Writers Place) so I think AAA reads all scripts and goes through a fair judging process

Just my 2 cents

Well that guy is smart.

I'm curious, have they announced winners or semi-finalists or anything? I haven't heard anything but it sounds like you all have.

I'm curious, have they announced winners or semi-finalists or anything? I haven't heard anything but it sounds like you all have.

I've had a similar experience to the two previous posts, with no contact from cs. Finally I emailed Coverage Ink and got a reply from Jim Cirile shortly. He said cs customer service was "out with the flu" and that he would look into the matter tonight. He also asked me to post their email so that others that never received an evaluation could contact him and not creative screenwriting. You can contact Coverage Ink at info@coverageink.com. I received my reply in less than an hour. Hope this helps.

I was a quarterfinalist in the 1 hour category. They were prompt, however I got no feedback on my script. I emailed Mark and he told me the judges were too busy running their production companies to provide me with feedback. I thought that was kind of a snotty answer. I'm not sure if I will enter this contest again.

I've had a similar experience to the two previous posts, with no contact from cs. Finally I emailed Coverage Ink and got a reply from Jim Cirile shortly. He said cs customer service was "out with the flu" and that he would look into the matter tonight. He also asked me to post their email so that others that never received an evaluation could contact him and not creative screenwriting. You can contact Coverage Ink at info@coverageink.com. I received my reply in less than an hour. Hope this helps.

I received my feedback close to 3 weeks after the contest closed and winners announced. Got 80% "excellent," and 20% "average" yet I didn't advance. Why..? BECAUSE THEY DIDN'T READ THE SCRIPT TILL AFTER THE CONTEST WAS OVER. I only got the feedback (which I paid for) after I kept insisting.

These folks also run the Screenplay Expo Open, and guess what...once again, THEY NEVER READ MY SCRIPT! This time they refunded my entry fee, which is an obvious admission of guilt. STAY AWAY FROM THESE PEOPLE!

Couldn't agree with the previous poster more. WORST EVER!!! Exact same thing happened to me. I even attached the script to an email which they received and still...nothing. I got my $12 back (bfd) but I will never get the weekend I spent writing it back. These guys also sponsor the AAA screenplay contest to which these folks DIDN'T EVEN READ my script till AFTER the contest was over, and that was only because I insisted that they send me the coverage I paid for. I got it over 2 weeks after the winners were announced. Most unprofessional organization I've encountered.

Guys - Cinestory is part sponsored by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. Enough said.

I finished 2nd this year for my screenplay, HORROR COMIC. Very surprised and pleased given the excellent reputation of The Script Department in Hollywood.

I received a personal phone call from Julie Gray congratulating me. She cooperated with me when I opted for the cash equivalent of the various prizes (and there were a lot!).

Her business partner is currently working with me to get my script in the hands of an impressive life of agents and managers.

Contests are really about networking and getting your screenplay into the right hands. A+ effort from this contest.

Best of luck to everyone this contest season!

I recently entered this contest. The quick response to emails is similar to all apects a writer hopes for in a contest - first class professionalism! The coverage on a particular script I entered not only arrived on time, but was worth every penny of the LOW price they ask for! Two words for ya - highly recommended!

I glanced at the report card and was thinking about entering. Thankfully, I read these comments. There's no way I'm entering. Huge red flags here.

anyone entered?

Why are they accepting submissions for a new contest when they haven't finished the last contest?

Example: Submissions for the ''14th Fade-In Awards'' were opened before the ''13th Fade-In Awards'' were finished.

14th Annual Fade In Award ***** EARLY-BIRD DEADLINE: October 31, 2009 ***** FINAL DEADLINE: November 30, 2009

But yet -- the 13th Awards is not finished!



WTF?

They're running a second contest when they can't even finish the other one?

The Writers Network 16th Annual Screenplay & Fiction Competition are now being accepted. FINAL DEADLINE — June 15, 2009.



I'm sending this information over to: TheWrap.com ---- 1229a Montana Avenue ---- Los Angeles, California 90049 ---- 310-899-0808

I hope ''TheWrap.com'' does another article, exposing this scam.

Here's the link:

http://www.thewrap.com/contact

Send them you horror stories.

I've entered this contest on 3 different occasions and with 3 different scripts. I will say upfront, I been disappointed with this contest on each occasion, but different reasons. Year 1 - my first screenplay - a sure Oscar candidate - it didn't advance and rightly so. It was garbage. Year 2 - new script that was a semi-finalist for a Nicholl Fellowship (top 100 out of 5,000 entries) but my script didn't even advance to the quarterfinals - the notes came back from the read "Does it have to be a period piece?" What the heck difference does it make to him? He's not paying to produce the movie! Year 3 - new script - romantic comedy - it had already won one contest and placed in another - yet again - it didn't even advance to the quarterfinal round. Script Savvy rated it a 55 out of 60. I think the readers at this festival are inexperienced. The Big Bear contest should announce what they're looking for in scripts, how they'll be judged, and who is in fact reading them. I have another friend who won the Scriptapalooza contest and never made it to the semi-finals in this contest. I like that it's a small contest, but for Christ's sake Big Bear, what do you want?

Thank you for the input.

I'll be staying away from this scam!

Does anyone else find it odd that a Mexico contest is being run out of Woodland Hills, CA?

Woodland Hills, CA -- is located north of Hollywood.

I feel very uncomfortable when I see people running contests and work out of homes.

SCAM!

Scam alert!

Placed on black-ball list!

I have to post that I am dissapointed in the script consulation and contest by Craig Kellum that I just purchased only because of how the consulation went.

When I talked to him the first time, he was extremely happy with my script JUBILEE and said that there was not much that he needed to do for it. He was laughing at my dialouge and said that I was a good writer. I was very happy and totally estactic about the second part of our consulation. He really made me feel that I had a good chance at winning or getting the consulation and even mentioned that he doesn't say this to everyone.

I had the second night of consulation with him and it was like everything he said the first time was shot to heck. He wasn't laughing at the lines anymore and it was a total change. I'm wondering what happened. He said he read the script "again" and it wasn't believable, etc. I was crushed. I'm like why the change in three days. That was very disappointing to build someone up to tear them down later. What happened? It was the same script that he said that didn't need much done to it.

I just wanted to give my experience and say that I was very disappointed with this. How can you be creditable and have that big of a mood change in a script. Did you show it to someone else and they didn't like it so you changed your mind? That doesn't seem like good consulting to me. I'm sorry.

Donna is simply the best. I won her contest 3 years ago, but she still periodically forwards my script to producers she thinks may be interested.

Prizes are delivered promptly; feedback (even on scriptst that don't win!) is always constructive and professional. I've kept Donna posted on my efforts and in return she's offered me some excellent advice that has gone far beyond her duties as a screenplay contest judge.

If you are looking for a contest that will provide you with honest feedback and an opportuntity to have your script read by industry professionals, then Script Savvy is the contest for you. :-)

Best of luck, and free to e-mail me with questions!

Update: September 17, 2009

Okay, so here's another update. I did have a question about the contest and my entries, so I emailed them my question and they responded within 24 hours. As of now, I'm completely satisfied with this contest and look forward to giving it a positive score when the contest is finished.

Was the address for log2script hijacked?

Update on my previous comment: The very evening of the day I posted that comment, I received two feedback forms from Pasha at AAA on the script in question. She cited her work on the Expo contest as the reason for the delay. So, I'm happy to report that the contest did finally deliver the purchased feedback. I would also say that the feedback is a good value as long as you're not under any time constraints: only $20 and I received some comments that will help me in my rewrite. One of the evaluations was very favorable; the other seemed quite harsh. But the harsh one in particular gave me some excellent new ideas, and that's what counts.

I entered the July contest and received my feedback promptly. My script scored fairly well so I was disappointed I didn't place but I can't fault them for that. I was pleased with the feedback I received. It seemed as though it was well thought out and didn't seem like it had been skimmed through. I'll definitely enter again in the future.

I cannot say I've had a satisfactory experience with the AAA contest this year.

1. In past contests they have posted quarterfinalist lists, so I had the expectation that they would do so again. However, this year they only announced the 1st-3rd winners, a "Semifinlalist" and ten finalists. Granted, their website didn't promise a list of quarterfinalists, but it would've been nice if they had clarified the changes.

2. They did, however, list some prizes that the semifinalists would get, which seems to imply a semifinalist list. But their announcement includes only one so-called semifinalist, listed after the grand prize winner so it seems to be more like a runner up. Semifinalists, of course, are the elimination level preceding finalists, so this makes no sense.

3. Most importantly, I signed up for the script feedback for the three scripts I submitted. The website indicated feedback would be delivered upon completion (not after the contest ended) and since I submitted my 3 scripts in February, I thought I would receive the feedback long before the conclusion of the contest in August. Still, I waited and received the feedback for two of the scripts a week or so after the contest ended. However, I still have not received the feedback for the third one, despite emailing the contest coordinator three times about it. I have received no response to my third email, sent a week ago. This is what has now prompted me to voice my complaints on Moviebytes.

I will happily print an update if and when I receive the missing feedback.

Generally speaking, it's hard to think much of a writing contest that, one month after posting the misspelled word: "semifinlalist" on their website, has still not seen fit to correct it.

Update:

I've entered this contest on September 12, 2009 and I've also signed up as a member of the website (it's free). After submitting my scripts, my profile has been updated to reveal my entries.

Today, September 14th, I've received emails confirming my two submission. If you read the details, they tell you that the winners, and finalists will all be posted on the same day on their website. Therefore I know not to expect an email.

I don't have any reason to email them yet but when I do, I'll post again to let people know if I get a response or not.

But so far, so good!

I've not entered this contest before. I noticed that people complain the most about feed back and confirmation emails. I was wondering if those who complain about this are actual members of the Website? Membership is free and if you are a member then you do get notification of receipt of your entry and from what I understand you can trace the process of your submission. So, I'm just wondering for those who have entered this contest are also members of the website?

The top 75 for each genre for the 2009 CWA comp is out. I'm like "WOW" I'm in.

I had a good feeling about this comp with regards to the fact that its run by women, and I figured that since my story featured a strong female lead and an equally strong female supporting character, why not send it in? Well, like they say, the rest is history.

Thanks CWA (win or lose)for vindicating the potenial I believe my script has.

This is a terrific contest. The feedback is very constructive and insightful - really helpful. Cheryl has been great. We're thrilled that our script WRINKLES was named finalist in this year's competition.

This is one of the best contests we've entered. The notes were incredibly thorough and thoughtful - really terrific. And Donna is great, very professional, very accessible. Our script DREAM won the July Script Savvy contest and we couldn't be happier. Enter this contest and get the feedback. You'll be happy you did:)

Read the below thread before entering.

http://www.moviebytes.com/messageboard.cfm?action=DisplayMessages&topic=6274

When I pay a company for ''typos and formatting'' in accordance with ''The Screenwriters Bible'' —

Each script gets three (3) reader feedbacks. And in my feedback I get graded the following for Grammar/spelling/format:

~~~ 2 - Poor/Below Average

~~~ 3 - Average/Fair/Passable/Unremarkable

~~~ 5 - Very Good/Great Strength

Two things pop up in my head:

1) The readers are a bunch of idiots, and;

2) This contest is a scam!



Don't waste your money on this POS contest!

I'm very happy with this contest and honored to have been selected as a winner. The written feedback that I received was helpful and specific. All of the correspondence from the contest has been timely, encouraging and professional. Acclaim Film also provides great prizes and industry exposure. I recommend this contest and I plan to enter again.

I received my feedback the day before the contest results were to be announced and am very impressed with the thoroughness and thoughtfulness of the comments. I could tell that the script had been not just skimmed but really read and thought about.

While reading the comments, I couldn't help thinking, "Of course, what a great idea" when I came to some of the suggestions.

From my perspective, this is a great contest, but just the script analysis alone is a superb investment. I felt like the reader really wanted to give me the most help possible.

I sent my script and fifty bucks and received zip, nothing, nada. Me thinks the lady is not all that honest.

I FORGOT TO TELL YOU ALL - YES, I WAS PUT ON MEXICO'S NOTE IN 2009 AS THE #5 "WINNER". WELL, THAT IS GREAT FOR ME TO ADD IT TO MY NOTES FOR MOVIE MAKERS. HMMMM.

Anyone else submit to this contest for this year? The deadline is Monday, August 31. I submitted last week and am waiting for an email confirmation, but I've been unable to access their website for 3 days now. Helpful suggestions welcome!

Sorry, but I've read some of the scripts that made it to the Second and First Rounders in Austin's recent competitions (not this year's), and they were flat out laughable. All were straight from the "let's mash up two genres and build some crazy characters and make it all snap with dialog no human being would say while going through situations that are completely ludicrous" school. Not one had real people or believable situations in them. Not one.

I hate to say it, but film is dead as an art. I thought Austin could take over for what Sundance used to be -- a venue for independent films that had meaning and influenced the language of movies -- but they've just bought into the nonsense of Hollywood and have gone along with the idea that American movies no longer need to even try to tell anything about the human experience; that it has to be is processed and pasteurized plagiarism from past projects pulverized to the point of pathetic-ness. It's painful to those of us who care about telling honest, human stories -- but Syd Field and Bob McKee must be very proud.

As for me -- I've finally given up on writing scripts and am now shifting back to writing books. I don't even go see movies, anymore; I've walked out on too many, lately.

ASA CHANGED FROM JUST "ASA" AND BECAME TO ASA/GOTHAM, AS I BELIEVE I SENT BOTH OF THEIR SCREENWRITERS TO THE BBB PEOPLE AS I BELIEVE THEY DID NOT EVEN READ MY SCREENPLAYS AND IF NOT, THEY SHOULD HAVE GIVEN BE BACK MY MONEY. WELL, I DID NOT GET MY MONEY BACK-- FOR ONE REASON, THOSE PEOPLE DO NOT EVEN PICK UP THEIR PHONE. AND THE BBB PEOPLE DID CALL THEM, BUT THEY DID NOT ANSWER. AT LEAST I HAD OTHER PEOPLE NOTICE THEY WERE TERRIBLE. THEY JUST WANT YOUR MONEY. THEY ARE PRETTY BAD, FRIEND.

Well, Friends -- I won 20/20 in 10-11-2007.They told me Jack Scagnetti in North Hollywood, CA, as he might have found someone to want to read my screenplays and maybe make a movie about my screenplays. After 6 months, I did send him a note -- to find out what he was doing. He didn't answer. I think that was another lie that people in the Contest's do.

I would never send my stuff in this place again. Obviously, they say they have Jack Scagnetti do things work for us, but that was another lie.

As a follow up, I still have not received my "Fast Track" coverage I paid for in April, although I received an email saying I was getting it, I never did. I have emailed about four more times, still no coverage, still no refund of my Fast Track $40 as promised. While this might be one of the more prestigious contests, save yourself the money on the coverage/feedback. You may never get it. I have to assume my screenplay was entered in the contest, but now I can't really be sure. Reputation is everything in this world. Prestigious or not, they shouldn't steal people's money.

Anyone have a clue what's going on with this contest? They moved the deadline and there is no info. Very confusing. I sent an email to find out if it was finished, ongoing, whatever, but got no response. Thought they were posting screenplays on their website for review, but there's nothing there.

I did not disagree with all of the comments they provided, and felt some of the feedback they offered was valid, but I found the way the Reader delivered the comments was sarcastic and unprofessional. It seemed instead of being constructive, his point was to be deprecating. You know how chimps in the zoo amuse themselves by throwing poop at zoo-goers they know are watching them? That's the feeling I got reading his review.

I've received feedback from other contests and never had a problem taking advice when something needs to be edited. In fact, I've edited my screenplay based on feedback from other contests and have made quarters, semi's, finals, and runner-up in reputable contests because I .edited based upon feedback. But feedback that's designed to insult rather than help me fix problems in the screenplay is counterproductive to me and to the company offering the "advice."

The Reader called my characters losers in a way I can only assume he thought was funny. To me, there's no value in that type of critique and is designed only to amuse the Reader.

On an aside, this review, as well as a few other critiques I have received, was fraught with grammatical errors, poor sentence structure, etc.. It amazes me that professional companies will hire Readers who can hardly formulate a sentence to evaluate scripts. I guess they need to know how to read what other people write, and there is no prerequisite that they know how to write themselves.

I am blown away by what is happening to me since I won this contest. Being able to put winner Hollywoodscript.com Craig Kellem Recommends on a script opens some pretty amazing doors!

Excellent feedback, the best from a contest - I tried most of them. It was 8 pages and on a par with a $300-400 critique.

I have been very pleased with all aspects of the StoryPros Awards Contest. They offer great prizes and great exposure for specific genres. Jeff and John meet all deadlines, and correspond in a very friendly, respectful, and timely way. I recommend this contest and I will definitely enter again.