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SkyFest met all their deadlines. (actually reporting results a day early). It was run in a very professional manner. Despite not making the top 3 I would definitely enter again. A+
The Mexico International Film Festival took my entry fee, all right, but that was the last thing they did. I got nothing confirming my entry, no information on the festival, and there was no e-mail stating who the winners were, either. I certainly wouldn't be surprized to learn that this competition is a fraud. Withoutabox and MovieBytes should look into this scam. I recommend they drop the Mexico International Film Festival from their listings.
This contest is a winner itself. It not only pits your script against the best of the best, but also offers 2 reviews by professional screenwriters and advertises the winner and finalists to industry insiders and production companies. All in all a great experience & Howard " The ScriptDoctor" Allen is to be commended.
Contest:
Well, Friends -- They are not here anymore. I have no idea why they are not on MovieBytes. -- Connie
*Endeavor
I would ask that Nick Stoli, David Bertoni and Bobbette Findley please post their analysis for others to read. I believe others might have a different reaction to the analysis we provided. You might also see that our reaction to their screenplays might have something to do with why we ''failed to impress'' them.
Our track record of discovering and recognizing screenwriters before they go on to sign at UTA and Edeavor and win Nicholl's, Austin and Sundance clearly indicates that we are probably the last screenplay competition to resemble a raffle. We inspire diverse reactions because we actually send people a reaction to their screenplay, which we have been doing long before Moviebytes even had a category for it. We also have been in Hollywood since we started in 1998 (I remember going to visit Erik Bauer on Hwd Blvd in his small office with our contest listings in the late 90's when the expo was a twinkle in his eye.) Our readers are paid and personally selected by me. Do you want me to list my credentials? Amongst a few other things, I am the founder and sole judge of the BlueCat Screenplay Competition. I invite you to submit your work to us.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 04/08/2009 08:34 AM
I was thinking about entering the contest __ someone please tell me the pros and cons. Thank you.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 04/08/2009 08:22 AM
Anyone entering this contest remember __ make sure your script is formatted to European specification __ or the script will be rejected and you'll lose your entry fee.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 04/08/2009 08:15 AM
Jeff Swanson __ The only people making money are the ones who start their own screenplay contest and offer script analysis. ''We are happy to feature all your classic favorites with a unique Kettle Black twist.''
Author: Sean Ryan
Posted: 04/07/2009 08:22 AM
I entered back in Thursday 25 September, 2008
Judging by the receipt: it was the fade in awards not the screenplay and fiction competition.
receipt text: 1 x Fade In Awards Entry Fee () = $47.50
Confused to say the least as these are two separate contests - I entered fade in awards for 2008 which is the 13th contest of this type.....
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 04/07/2009 08:04 AM
Sean -- right now theyre accepting scripts for the 16th contest http://www.fadeinonline.com/Contests/TWN_Competition/ ******* Link to the 15th contest quarter-finals http://www.fadeinonline.com/Contests/Screen_Fict_quarters.html ******* Link to the Semi-Finals http://www.fadeinonline.com/Contests/Screen_Fict_semi.html ******* The 15th contest finals have not been announced.
Author: Sean Ryan
Posted: 04/04/2009 10:34 AM
"Go to the main website page. On the left of the page, click *CONTEST* under the *F* in Fadein -- http://www.fadeinonline.com"
Did that but isn't that the 2007 contest results?
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 04/04/2009 07:49 AM
Go to the main website page. On the left of the page, click *CONTEST* under the *F* in Fadein -- http://www.fadeinonline.com
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 04/04/2009 07:44 AM
LMAO -- a Mexico IFF with a Woodland Hills drop box. Im getting tired of scams.
Author: Sean Ryan
Posted: 04/03/2009 03:54 AM
"he contest Finalists are now on the website. Thatnk you! "
Can't find them on the site????
Author: Sean Ryan
Posted: 04/03/2009 03:51 AM
Still waiting for this years semi-finalist announcements?
Contest:
Author: Don Boose
Posted: 04/02/2009 10:45 PM
Hi,
Webmaster simplyscripts weighing in. There is no history on this contest. Obviously have scraped email addresses from screenwriting sites. Difficult to read terms of contest. No way to print contest rules. I urge strong caution unless you are able to read at a left tilting 45 degree angle.
Don
webmaster
dorky website
The festival is a brilliant event and it was a privilege to be involved. The entire atmosphere is really positive.
The encouragement and support for the writers was outstanding. The sessions I was involved in (Good to Go & Readings) were better than I expected and just what writers such as myself need. When you work in isolation, it means so much to get validation for your writing and help in the next stage. To have an opportunity to get it out there and meet producers and also to hear the words spoken by professionals was fantastic. Mark Sanders was terrific in putting that all together and he's a "great bloke" as we say in England!
I recommend the Female Eye Festival to any writer, male or female.
I found the Female Eye Film Festival a wonderful experience. As I made my preperations to attend the festival, Mark Sanders, in script development, was very patient with my many questions concerning the Good to Go process of the festival. He was even kind enough to give me his phone number so I could speak to him personally. Leslie Coles, director of The Female Eye, was also great about answering my emails and explaining the different programs involved in the festival. My script, Screaming My Heart, was given a reading, which resulted in opening doors for me, as well as encouraging me to revise the script. All in all, it was a great experience and I will be entering again next year.
Janyce Lapore
Regarding comments about a lack of communication -- Today I received a form-letter e-mail from Assistant Coordinator Rick Reynolds informing me of a delay in posting the finalist selections and the reason for the delay. Since this is the first year I've entered this contest, I can't speak about the past; but I do applaud Rick and Screenplay Festival for the update. BTW, this same notice appears on the Screenplay Festival website.
Been meaning to write in and just got around to it and have to say, we have entered a lot of contests and this, although new, is a breath of fresh air! Professional in every way. No we didn't win, but the notes we got back are the most useful and helpful we've ever gotten. Not that we agreed with everything, but the vast majority of suggestions we could actually understand and use immediately! even those we didn't use made us think. Becaue of the contest feedback we decided to use their coverage service and have to say - they go the extra mile. They really care. It's taken a long time to find a dependable service. this is one contest we've recommended to our writers group.
Contest:
I must agree with many of the other comments. I was extremely surprised how extensive, perceptive and professional the coverage I just received. And my munderstanding is that it was evaluated by 2 readers. I would whole-heartedly recommend the contest and the coverage provided. It was obvious that my script was read very carefully. I plan on sending Donna my next script.
Well, that's funny. I also saw the posting from Mark Andrushko and got a kick out of it. I see it has been removed since Aaron's post. I used to wonder why Mark didn't catch it sooner, as it was up there since last year. Whoops! Good luck to all who enter.
Just a clarification to all -- Mr. Gomez has never entered any of our contests; he seems to be some sort of free spirit and maker of mischief. If he had entered our contest and had taken issue with any of our deadlines, he could have easily communicated with us and we would've promptly addressed his concerns. That said, we thank him for his comments, and his concern over the state of Mr. Szopa's nose...but humbly suggest that his writing time would be better spent on screenplays!
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 03/29/2009 08:37 PM
The contest Finalists are now on the website. Thatnk you!
Contest:
One of the best contest analysis reports I've received, and one of the most reasonable to boot! And I'll gotten quite a few. Highly recommend this contest if for no other reason than the thorougly professional and meaningful analysis report.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 03/24/2009 09:29 PM
Audrey Kelly ~~ as an outsider I'll have to express my opinions on the matter. Especially after you made the claims of ''malicious defamation'' in your reply! *** If I go to your website I see nothing about the screenplay contest. No updates, posting of the finalist, etc. *** There's nothing about past winners whereas people can do a little DD *** There's a lot of promoting ~ but nothing about when the competition will be announcing the QUARTER-FINALIST and/or SEMI. In fact, there's nothing! *** Your company is really quick on taking someone's contest money but real slow in returning any consideration! *** have a nice day!
Feedback had a real slapdash quality to it -- like the reader was just skimming and making checkmarks on his/her checklist.
2008 contest was poorly run. No updates on site, plus no e-mail notification of winners.
Also just an update on Vernon Whitlock and Matt Krentz, who posted above, we assisted these two talented writers recently with agency and producer meetings and are happy to report they decided to sign with APA.
The story by TheWrap.com was a malicious defamatory attack on Fade In by a month-old media competitor with the assistance of Ms. Williams. This media competitor had no interest in the truth, which we provided to them before they published these outrageous allegations. It's understandable that these lies may put doubt in people's minds but if you read our post at fadeinonline.com and click on the links you will see without a doubt that there is no basis to their story whatsoever. We have been here for 16 years. We have awarded prizes to approximately 200 finalists since that time. Many of which have gone on to have their winning scripts produced and/or gone on to have box office hits and great careers. You can also hear our interview on screenwritersutopia.com regarding this matter. Thank you. - Audrey Kelly, Editor in Chief
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 03/18/2009 11:53 PM
Vincent — stop brown nosing!
Most other contests do not charge a commission. Most other contest to not advertise the sale for 6 figures of one of their scripts. But, why wasn't that sale among the testimonials?
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 03/17/2009 11:24 PM
This contest is a joke. They just want your money. Once they cash your check you'll never hear from them again.
Contest:
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 03/17/2009 06:28 AM
I look at this contest as a full time job the owner. Where 100 entrants can generate anywhere from $3,500 to $9,500 salary per month. The greater the entrants, the higher the monthly salary. >>>>>> The feedback is excellant and is worth the extra money.
Contest:
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 03/17/2009 06:22 AM
Look over the past weeks winners and you will see the contest is a joke.
I was a semi-finalist and also a finalist in Acclaim Film & TV. That's the first time I achieve that rank, so I am a live proof that people that are not satisfied with their feedback are the ones who should make an effort to learn to accept critics, admit their failures, otherwise they will never learn the basics of getting successful as screenwriters or any other kind of profession. Acclaim Film and TV's Frank Drouzas is serious and highly professional. That's why Acclaim is listed as one of the most significant contests by moviebytes.
Impeccable feedback, although they to comment only the positive aspects of your script. As far as people who complain about not having been notified of the results, I suggest they keep a record of all contest they enter, which is the least they can do for someone who has some interest in their own business. In my opinion, waiting for a contest notification is a signal of lack of interest and laziness. Usually, we humans are more prone to complaint and destroy other people's business than do their part of the work.
The comment posted by Laura Onorio is totally false. I can't believe there are people who is malevolent enough to post a false statement like that just to give a serious contest a bad reputatioin. I was myself a semifinalist in 2008, and Acclaim Film & TV Contest notified me several days before she posted that comment. I invite everyone to enter Acclaim Film website and check for themselves she is lier. Please see below the proof I was a semi-finalist.
ACCLAIM CONTEST SEMI-FINALIST''
From: info@acclaimscripts.com
Sent: Tuesday, August 19th, 2008 15:27:59
To: lunaflorida@hotmail.com
Maria,
Congratulations on your script RESCUING THE ROMANOVS placing as a semi-finalist in our Spring/Summer 2008. On behalf of Acclaim Film & TV, thanks again for submitting!
Best,
Frank Drouzas
READER'S COMMENTS:
Rescuing the Romanovs is a striking, historical-based screenplay backed by an admirable and thorough historically-researched foundation. Justin comes alive through his travels and you've given him ample levity through his dialogue to come across as focused, yet unsure. We were impressed with your opening scene and sequence, from pages 1 to 7, you've written some extremely detailed passages, leading to the execution of the Romanovs. The tension you've built at this point superbly melds into your establishing, modern-day scenes. Justin, Marty, and Prof. Weston and delightfully well-conceived, as their characters — as primaries — help solidify your plotline, without overshadowing the interesting secondary roles of Mrs. Gray, Nicole and Andrew. These characters bring about strong supporting parts in the quest to rescue Anastasia and Alexei. This an amazing screenplay based on historical fact with a perfect mix of original creativity.
Listen to our interview with Amy this Wednesday night!
http://www.screenwritersutopia.com/ScreenTalk/
I'm on the fence for this one, too. I don't mind the p.o. box address as it's customary, but anyone notice that Mark Andrushko left a comment on 2/04/08? Did he enter his own contest, or what? The comments that follow his are also done almost one after the other -- as if by design. Maybe I'm seeing an issue that doesn't exist, and I'm not here to talk anyone out of entering. Good luck.
I've got nothing but praise for the Gimme Credit Screenplay Competition. They operate one of the best communications platforms with scoring feedback and notifications.
Contest:
If you ever wanted to feel validation for your writing, this is a "must enter" contest. The people that run the contest could not be nicer or more responsive, as well as making you feel like a winner, even if you don't win. They show a great deal of respect to up and coming writers, and if Suzanne believes in your work, your relationship with her and her company doesn't necessarily end when the contest does.
I can't speak more highly of her (and Diana) in terms of how sincerely warm, approachable and respectful they are. Meeting them, even for the first time, feels like seeing old friends. Again, enter this contest and great things can really happen. (Thanks again, Suzanne and Diana - you two are absolute delights!)
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 03/08/2009 11:08 PM
Cheryl Herring ** I checked WGA and your name does not come up. You're not a union WGA Writer? **
Does anyone know if this contest is legit? Seems implausible that they posted winners 18 days after the deadline. I sent them the question below and they never responded. Seems odd.
"I have a few quick questions regarding your recent screenplay contest:
1. How many entries did you receive?
2. How many judges did you have?
and
3. What judging criteria was used for the contest?"
An addendum to my earlier commentary.
They say 1st impressions matter. Well, I had a good one on Liz Alani. She responded quickly to my mails and was very very polite. Win or lose, I have no regrets entering this comp.
Contest:
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 03/03/2009 07:49 AM
LMAO __ Fellow Writes __ The Quarterfinals were suppose to be announced February 28, 2009 or earlier ____ They changed the date to March 31, 2009 or earlier __ That's what I found on the website. Not from an email update from the company, from the website.
Contest:
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 03/02/2009 10:07 PM
Not only do they not keep their deadline dates, they don't update their website when they miss their annoucment date. But yet the company proudly claims >>> We are proud that our competition was rated A+ by Creative Screenwriting on ScreenplayContests.biz.
Contest:
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 03/01/2009 08:10 AM
I don't know what's more important with this organization ** the contest or the continued solicitation of their workshops.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 02/26/2009 07:46 AM
Schlomo Smalakis *** ... seven hundred dollars or more on top of that, AND that's if you place! *** >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Thank you for providing this information. I knew there was something wrong about this contest. And you right, I too want to know what the full cost of this retreat. >>> It is sad that people take advantage of those that wish to pursue their artistic career.
Submitted the same screeplay twice (under their rules permitting resubmission). First feedback was interesting and somewhat constructive -- and quite positive. Second was a virtually suggestionless rant with statements showing that the screenplay had been skimmed, if that. Very odd indeed.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 02/24/2009 07:03 AM
Everyone that left a message stated they either made the quarter or semi finals. I enjoyed the comment where someone stated they received an email [sic] asking that they post a comment on MovieBytes. While I was reading the comments I started to wonder why no winners left a message. Then I saw Matt Umbarger (congratulations). I checked the Better Business Bureau and this company has a B minus rating. The rating prompted me to do a check on the address of 7775 SUNSET BLVD and I discovered this is a PERSONAL MAIL BOX (PMB). I checked with the Secretary of State and I came up with: SCRIPTAPALOOZA, INC., [address omitted] Looks like the business is being run out of someone's personal residence! The names of Mark Andrushko and Genevieve Cibor come up negative as a WGA Union Writer. ***** I'm still deciding on this contest.
Well, my three screenplays had been given by "Withoutabox" as usually.
10 screenplay people had been told they would might be the winner. Well I was not even in that. They had not told me anything at all. I really feel like they should say something. Anything. Just even if they said they actually got your screenplays. If they want people to try at all, they should start telling people something. So I will never send mine there.
Jim Cirile read my screenplay and gave excellent notes -- among the best ones I've received from having won/placed in eight competitions.
His comments showed a strong depth of knowledge regarding screenplay structure, character, as well as with technical issues. The explanations offered were positive helpful, and clear.
Although I first encountered Cirile's work through Creative Screenwriting's Expo rather than through WOTS, I would highly recommend working with Cirile if one seeks worthwhile commentary and work done with integrity.
While I'm very pleased and grateful to be a winner this year (2008 contest), I would be praising StoryPros highly for their well-crafted analysis and feedback in any case. The contest ran smoothly and exceeded my expectations, but asking for the basic feedback (ordered with an additional fee at contest entry time) was the smartest move I've made lately. Once you get professional, impartial commentary on your work at the level provided by StoryPros, you will never worry about the costs again. If you're serious about advancing your own vision and learning your craft, you owe it to yourself to move beyond a circle of friends (supportive as they may be) and ask a pro to shine a light on your work. I look forward to the results of a StoryPros Deep Analysis of my script. I know I'll be getting seriously helpful advice--and there's nothing like winning to make one want to work even harder. I also want to agree with other reviewers: Jeff has been friendly and communicative via email, above and beyond what I would've expected.
Contest:
The entry fee is reasonable, but the fees for judge's feedback, $100 for "judge's highlights" and $200 for full coverage, are exorbitant. I splurged for the judge's highlights and I'm very sorry I did. The coverage, which appeared to be hastily written, contained numerous errors in spelling, word usage, and grammar. On top of that, the judge was extremely nasty, saying things like I have no flair for writing and that the tone of the script is "self-important." I can't believe I paid a hundred dollars to be insulted.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 02/17/2009 07:48 AM
I'm going to stay away from this contest. Do a little DD on the following:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
ROSS WW MEDIA 11444 Washington Blvd. Suite C-227, Los Angeles, CA 90066 ~~~~~ Rosswwmedia owns the following companies ~~~~~ WriteMovies.com: ***** aTalentScout.com: ***** ProductionConsulting.com ***** IdeaToSale.com:
Has a film ever actually been made from one of their winners? I don't think so.
If a contest has been around for a while and cannot cite a placing script that has actually become a film, then it's questionable that the contest has any career value.
It has been almost a decade since anyone placing in Nicholl has actually had a screenplay made into a film. Either they are picking wrong (my guess) or no one is paying attention.
Contest:
Grabriella, your cmments are a bit confusing. You say that you enter competitions all the time, but also say that this was your first. Very suspicious....
My script won Best Fresh Voice at FeFF 2008. I found the festival organizers to be very supportive of me and the award has been valuable for my career. I have had numerous producers ask to read my script as a result.
hi,
been reading up people's comments on this comp & i couldn't help noticing a lot of negative vibes.
i understand one can't win all the time but i really would like to know if entering this comp is worth the risk? from my vantage, i do see it as a comp worth entering.
comments would really be appreciated.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 02/07/2009 08:13 AM
Cheryl Herring _ Thank you for your reply. I find it odd that if someone wants to pay your company for script consulting one must also sign your company ''section 4'' waiver. I can understand that if a writer has a finished product and asks your company to promote the product then the writer would be obligated to sign the ''section 4'' contract. But what I don't understand is why do you want the ''section 4'' contract signed when someone wants to pay you for script consulting?
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 02/07/2009 08:05 AM
Ben Krapf __ Why does this company use a Beverly Hills personal mail box as their address. Do you think the owners live in San Diego but use a Beverly Hills Address to show credibility?
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 02/07/2009 07:54 AM
20-20 is an operation run by a company called ''Screenbrokers.'' *** The registered business purpose of Screenbrokers: ''Screenplay Reading and Critiquing Service'' *** The owners of Screenbrokers are: Bonnie and Alan (last names left out for privacy) *** Screenbrokers has an employee named Andy (last name left out for privacy) *** Bonnie, Alan and Andy are not -- NOT -- members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA). >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> In my opinion, this contest is used as a stepping stone for Screenbrokers to solicit business by ~ critiquing your twenty pages, rejecting your twenty pages and then offering their ''Screenbroker Writing Services'' at an additional cost. Are the notes worth $40 dollars? Some people have written the notes are worth the money and some people have written the notes are not worth the money. Since Bonnie, Alan and Andy are not a WGA Union Member (and we all know that to be a WGA member one must first sell a script), whether those notes from Non-WGA Writers are constructive must be decided my each contestant!
Correct judgement to judgment -- lesson learned, edit first then click.
As a winner I am thrilled with this contest and their great judgement! Deadlines were on met. Correspondence was answered immediately. Everything they said would be awarded was and quickly. Has been a great experience for me. Would recommend this contest. Thanks, Deana Costner
Hi,
Just got word that the Nicholl, this year, will be accepting PDF copies of scripts from writers that reside overseas. About time.
But does anybody out there know when exactly the contest will kick off?
Hi,
Just got word that the Nicholl, this year, will be accepting PDF copies of scripts from writers that reside overseas. About time.
But does anybody out there know when exactly the contest will kick off?
I sent my three screenplays but I did not even get on a Quarter. I thought they were not for real. However, one of the people in our "bulletin board" at MovieBytes got into the Quarter, and the Zoetrope wrote me a note and let me no they were a true screenplay contest.
I just got my early bird feedback...I was EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED. The coverage had a "freshman comp" feel to it -- like the person was writing about something he/she didn't really know much about. This is not sour grapes, by the way...my screenplay was praised more than it was panned. But, if the person giving the feedback doesn't impress you at all, the feedback's meaningless. This contest is more like a raffle. Aspirant beware.
Contest:
I don't know what all the fuss is about? My script, Your Time to Die, was selected as second place short. I was notified by email on November 14, 2008 by a Rep. from R E Stull (via email) that I won second place. I have received my award and am happy with the contest. I'm not defending anyone in this comment, I'm just giving my input. I would gladly enter this contest again.
Contest:
Author: Rob Stull
Posted: 02/01/2009 10:04 PM
Sorry, website is www.myspace.com/horrorcreekfestivaloffear
Contest:
Author: Rob Stull
Posted: 02/01/2009 09:58 PM
The winners has been posted at www.myspace.com/horrorcrekfestivaloffear since late November, 2008. As I stated, I'm not gonna have an internet debate with your dissatisfaction. I apologize you feel the way you do.
Contest:
I'm not angry, Rob. I'm here to simply state what happened to stupid me, as a warning to smarter others. I have yet to see a list of winners — note this date, everyone — posted here on moviebytes, or elsewhere. Or, the fact of whether or not you even had a festival last year. I did send you two emails, politely enquiring what happened in your contest — again, do you respect your entrants enough to provide them a list of who did and did not win, like EVERY OTHER SCREENWRITING CONTEST DOES? Did you really alert EVERY SINGLE ONE of your entrants about winners/losers, Rob, but I - and Kyle above — oh, and moviebytes.com - happened to be the ONLY ONES that missed that list?& Again, note this date, 2-1-09, and the lack of list of winners posted here at moviebytes (Frederick is meticulous about posting the winners of every contest). Why have you provided no winners listed here, Rob, as of this very late date, even after your bizarrely tangential responses to my pointed criticisms?& One can only surmise. I could care less about winning in your ''contest'' Rob, for a host of reasons& including, apparently (again, entrants take note), that even if you win, NO ONE WILL EVER KNOW ABOUT IT! (I've done the google search; Rob never did "announce" his winners, like he promised here and on his site, as of this late date, 2-01-09). It's not ''amateur'' sounding off like this, Rob — it's my moral duty, to inform others potential entrants, with many fine contests to choose from, about my experience with yours.
My super short made the semifinals for Cycle VII. I received my feedback in a timely manner. It was a good experience though they did push the announcement date back. I plan on entering this contest again in the future.
Well, Friends -- I sent all my screenplays to the Canada Int Film -- way in Sep 25, 2008. I paid $135.00. I see that they are all done for the winners. They have not even put on the first Quart or the Semi -- Just the Finalists, then the winners. Well, friends -- mine have been pretty good on 30 or so places -- So I will put that down for myself to realize that I will never send mine to them. Never.
Of all the contests I entered in 2008, this is the only one to keep in touch with me with updates. Someone really read my script. So I paid for an evaluation, which was extremely educational. I favor this contest above all others.
I just saw which scripts won this year's competition. I've read two of them, and I'm no longer surprised I never got anywhere with these guys when I sent my scripts in; they prefer "characters" and ludicrous situations with fable-like "life lessons learned" to humanity and reality. But it seems that's how most of Hollywood's going. Have you seen what are considered to be the best scripts not yet produced (according to "Entertainment Weekly's" guru) and how many of them are in development? It's like am A-B-C of stupid storylines. I'm about convinced the only way to get something real done in this town, anymore, is to scrape the money together and do it yourself on HD. You can't get anyone to pay attention to a script unless it's insipid nonsense, anymore.
Contest:
Author: Rob Stull
Posted: 01/29/2009 10:47 AM
I'm not going to get in an unprofessional internet debate with you. As of emails, if ONE was SENT, it would have been answered. I reviewed all of the emails sent to this event and I do not see one signed by you. There is ONE sent by Kyle and it was responded. If you are disatisfied with the competition, I urge you not to submit to any future ones that we will have. Again, I believe your anger is that you think you should have won but was not selected. You act very amateur and that is not the attitude to have in the business of screen writing. All this will do is get your script tossed. I apologize to you if you feel offended, but writing unprofessional messages about me and my company will not change the results of the judging.
I won 2nd place in 2003 and found Denise and her people efficient, gracious and helpful. It's a well run contest with a specific focus. Go for it, horrormeisters!
Dear Dan,
This is from the standard agreement for our consulting services only and has nothing to do with our screenwriting competition. Basically #4 means that if a writer asks AMLC Productions to help them sell their script and we are successful, then we have a 30 day option to negotiate with the buyer to stay on with the project as a producer or in any other appropriate capacity. If you have any further questions, please feel free to email me at AMLCProds@afeedingfrenzy.com. Best regards, Cheryl
Author: Ben Krapf
Posted: 01/26/2009 12:24 PM
Thank goodness all writers don't subscribe to the paranoia and hysteria of some...
If you guys think Hollywood always sticks to timetables, guess again. Use this slight delay in notification as practice for when you are working in an actual production that exceeds its schedule. The other option would be to get upset at something over which you have no control.
Creative World Awards is one of the best contests out there. One look at their website and you know you are dealing with people who are sincere about advancing your work. If you are on the fence about which contest to enter, choose this one.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 01/22/2009 02:28 PM
Someone tell me what this means please & Thank you.
************************************************************************************************************************* AMLC Productions shall have the right to produce such motion picture, television series, miniseries, movie of the week or other similar type entertainment program (as applicable). Such right to produce entitles AMLC Productions to be employed as a producer, or in such other capacity it may deem appropriate.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 01/22/2009 02:27 PM
Here is Section 4 of the Release Agrement. *************************************************************************************************************************
4. In the event a submitted screenplay by me/us is purchased by, optioned by, transferred or assigned to, any motion picture, television or other similar type of production company or studio, and/or any agreement is entered into to otherwise, develop, produce or make the screenplay into a motion picture, television series, mini-series, movie of the week, or other similar type of entertainment program as a direct result of the involvement of AMLC Productions at my request, then AMLC Productions shall have the right to produce such motion picture, television series, miniseries, movie of the week or other similar type entertainment program (as applicable). Such right to produce entitles AMLC Productions to be employed as a producer, or in such other capacity it may deem appropriate. AMLC Productions shall have a thirty (30) day period to negotiate the terms and conditions of such engagement with the motion picture, television or other similar type of production company or studio that acquires the screenplay by purchase, option, transfer or assignation.
Recently received my free evaluation. Did not expect much, but to my surprise it was to the point, relevant and well-argued. I will certainly enter again.
Contest:
Mr. Stull, maybe you're unaware of the fact that it's basic professionalism in any contest to NOTIFY entrants of their STATUS, win or lose, when the contest is over. Everyone here should TAKE NOTE of the fact that apparently you are admitting you DO NOT NOTIFY those who do not place in your contest, and see nothing wrong with that. Beyond that, all here should TAKE NOTE that you don't even respond in any kind to gentle emails from PAYING ENTRANTS sent you, inquiring even what happened at all to the contest, as testified to by myself and Kyle. Moviebytes here (as of this posting, 1/21/09) has never announced the winners - did you even *have* a festival, Mr. Stull?... (Hell, it took these very postings to poke you out of hiding!) Apparently, Mr. Stull, you seem to have no regard whatsoever to anyone who enters your contest, except those mysterious "winners" who are notified and receive their awards under cover of darkness. And, after entrants who have been left in the dark (who SENT YOU THEIR MONEY), who are treated with no respect to inquiring emails, complain after many months of no response, you heap disdain on them. Utterly and completely unprofessional is how I gauge this... and I warn others to take sobering note....
Contest:
well, yeah, 2 and a half is a bit too long, but it's only been a lil over a year since the last announcement. :D sorry, shouldn't joke. I have no excuse except that I got too behind and haven't wanted to take shortcuts/compromise. I will be making an announcement sometime very soon and getting back on track. Cameron Counts
Author: Mark Reed
Posted: 01/20/2009 05:57 PM
Thank you for your comments. This year the majority of entries came to us in the last week of the competition. Our first priority is always to give our readers the time they need to fairly evaluate all screenplays. Readers that are rushed do not do the best work. Taking this and the holiday period into consideration, the quarterfinalists will be posted on Friday January 23.
Contest:
Author: Rob Stull
Posted: 01/20/2009 04:42 PM
Is this how all contestants act if their screenplay is not selected? The winners were chosen, notified and compensated. Movie Bytes is not the only site this contest was advertised. Myself, being a screenplay writer, director and producer, have never seen such unprofessionalism. Apparently the amateur writers must understand that there are a lot of writers out there and not everyone has a top notch screenplay. Hell, I have a stack of screenplays that I thought would be Box Office hits, but guess what, they're not. I ran an honest competition and winners were compensated. There is no need to to put people, judges, companies down just because your screenplay was not selected. The judging was done by a panel and graded. It was not done by one person. I apologize if you feel offended for not being selected, but we judged by a panel and a graded system.
Contest:
Author: D. A.
Posted: 01/19/2009 11:56 PM
not too sure about Immersion. looks like it's 2 rookie agents w/ no real experience and like someone mentioned, they want a 12 month option if they like your stuff.
Contest:
Kyle, I hear you man, I feel your pain: same thing with me, annoyed by no results, two follow-up emails, no responses of any kind whatsoever.... There's a blog posting on this Horror Creek myspace site, where the guy running the contest attacks Hilton Hotels for not holding up their end of some bargain towards him; and so he's asking everyone to boycott them... but this guy running the contest is himself, I can only surmise by experience, a shining example of now not only the same broken promises, but utter hypocrisy, as well as theft - taking writers' money, without compensating them in any way, not even a response. A scumbag, as far as I'm concerned.
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 01/07/2009 07:56 PM
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Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 01/07/2009 07:55 PM
Great! __ That's just great! ****** Beverly Hills US Mail Boxes is located at 311 N Robertson Blvd Beverly Hills, CA . Phone: 310-246-1157. Western Union, Send/Payout Money Transfer ******
Author: Dan Gomez
Posted: 01/06/2009 05:40 PM
Don't know what to say? ___ Quarterfinals were to be posted by "Late-December" and they have not been posted! __ No one at the company returns emails! __ No one at the company answers the phones or returns messages __ I will never enter this contest again!
Concerning the previous post, which I left on January 5, 2009, please note that Moviebytes' software stripped out all the quotation marks and several other types of punctuation. Why it does that, I have no idea, but it certainly makes comments containing quotations or any punctuation other than periods and commas rather hard to read. Maybe Moviebytes should do something about that.
This screenplay contest says that its reviewers/judges are first-rate, but anyone who reads the coverage my entry received will realize such claims for what they are — pure fabrication.
Consider the following actual quote from one of Blue Cats' alleged expert readers:
''What do you think needs work?
The main weakest of the story is that the audience at various parts along the journey becomes lost.''
Give me a break! ''The main weakest of the story?'' Whoever was assigned the evaluation of my screenplay, they are clearly incapable of writing a correct sentence in the English language, much less passing judgment on a screenplay as a work of art. Oh, yeah, you bet — this bozo got lost reading a highly informed, complex and sophisticated screenplay, I have no problem believing that. What I can't believe is that this person thinks they speak for my intended audience. Okay - think that's a fluke? No way! Check this out:
''As skilled as the writer(s) are in providing copious details bringing the era and culture to life, it is at the same time a detriment to the story. The audience becomes lost in all the particulars that they lose their focus and attention. The audience is not always sure what is taking place and what is being said. While the language is authentic it is also obscure at the same time and not necessarily enticing. Some of the terminology used is not familiar.''
Excuse me, but really - ''the audience?'' An idiot trying to learn how to read a screenplay intended for people over the age of 25, maybe, but my audience? I dare to maintain that's just not so. Word to your mother, fool — there's more to the art of cinema than Sylvester Stallone's interpretation of dialog and three-act story structure. Yeah, sure, I admit it, I don't have a graduate degree in film, but really — did the person Blue Cat assigned to evaluate my efforts even graduate from high school, much less a reputable university? If so, I'd sure like to know which one!
Seriously, folks, if you write intelligent, informed screenplays, then don't waste your money on a contest run by charlatans who apparently outsource their assessments to children living in third-world countries.
Contest:
On their MySpace page, they state they'll announce the winnrers of the competition on November 7, 2008. Here it is, nearly two months later, and still nothing. Nor will they respond to my e-mails asking about it.
I just sent yet another e-mail asking about it. I doubt I won anything, even though the script I sent in has done well in other competitions; I just want to know what my standing was. Hell, I'd like them to just keep their end of the bargain in this contest.
To be honest, I believe this thing was just a way for the guy sponsoring the contest to make some money. It's my own damn fault for falling for it. Be warned.
