Message Board

Any one know a good site to find out which contests give feedback?

Thanks.

Hello,

Knowing that a script is never really finished, when is the best time to register your script with the WGA?

Or, does signing a release form really cover that aspect of copyright?

Thanks

Thanks for the replies.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that even though your script is not the final version(eg)shooting script), it's okay then to register it with the WGA then.

Don

Hello,

I am considering writing a script based on an actual event with a lot of fiction blended in (ie. what if). However, the event, a crime, has yet to be solved.

Do I need to get permission from somebody as in the players involved? Or can I just put a disclaimer in such as any similarities to actual events is purely coincidental etc., etc.

Thanks,

displane

The one thing I did not like about WAR OF THE WORLDS was Dakota Fanning.

I think she overacted. It was like she tried to steal the scnes away from Tom Cruise!

Also, must she be in every movie where they require a kid? Enough already!

My rant,

Don

Help!

I'm a little confused. So I hope to get some advice.

When sending out queries by snail mail, is it best to include an S.A.S.E.? Some say yes, it's best. Others say not necessary, if they really want your script, they'll contact you regardless. Any thoughts?

The other is sending them out by e-mail. I've seen a lot of production queries include their e-mail. But the general consensus that I've heard is that they won't answer e-mails from people they don't know. Any thoughts?

Thanks

All,

Thanks for the responses.

The reason I had asked this was that after snail mailing out so many queries, I forgot to include an SASE.

But after receiving only one reply(it was a no to unsolicited queries), I was starting to wonder.

Hi Ben!

First of all, thanks for Final draft. As a new writer to script wriitng, it's helped me immensely concentrate on just writing and not worrying about format.

Secondly, although in a perfect world I would like to see a response to even a query letter much less a requested script, I know it just doesn't happen in this industry. People are just too busy. But I also have learned(thanks to this board!) that if they really want your script, they'll contact you. I much happier with a response than a full review. Thirdy, you might consider this. Unfortunately, many of us writers are like condors. We fly around in circles and once we find a dead carcass, WE all flock towards it. Sorry, for the bluntness but I think it's the truth. By providing coverage/responses, you may get too much mail.

My two cents.

P.S. I just went to tour website. Is it down or still under construction?

Hi Ben!

First of all, thanks for Final draft. As a new writer to script wriitng, it's helped me immensely concentrate on just writing and not worrying about format.

Secondly, although in a perfect world I would like to see a response to even a query letter much less a requested script, I know it just doesn't happen in this industry. People are just too busy. But I also have learned(thanks to this board!) that if they really want your script, they'll contact you. I much happier with a response than a full review. Thirdy, you might consider this. Unfortunately, many of us writers are like condors. We fly around in circles and once we find a dead carcass, WE all flock towards it. Sorry, for the bluntness but I think it's the truth. By providing coverage/responses, you may get too much mail.

My two cents.

P.S. I just went to your website. Is it down or still under construction?

I managed to ask the same question in an online discusiion forum with someone from a major agency.

The response was almost a denial of sort. There are a lot of original ideas out there. And yet, more remakes are being done.

Hollywood keeps asking why box receipts are down. Duh! Maybe we're tired of seeing remakes in the theatres. Maybe we just wait for it to come out on video. Maybe we just liked the original.

Linda,

I personally do not include an SASE in my queries. I just include my email address. I've been told if they want your script they will contact you.

However, I wish some would just reply. Nothing is morre furstrating than waiting almost two months, then realizing no reply is just the same as a rejection.

I recently signed up for an online screenwriter's chat(I won't mention the name... case). The guests would take queries where in normal cases they do not take unsolicited queries.

Even though you pay good money and although they took our queries, they do not respond at all. The letters are coded and not many take the class. I would think the guets also get paid.

I guess what I'm trying to say, even though they are busy, it'd nice to get a response once in a while.

Don

Is there an exact definition of what a high concept script/idea/movie is? It seems like different agents, producers and so forth have different definitions.

Thnaks,

Don

Thanks.

I guess maybe that's the problem. It sounds like you need almost a marketing degree to just write something that is high concept and sellable to make a quick buck.

Don

Crazy question, probably asked numerous times, but here it goes...

How much rewrting should you do after getting feedback from entering a contest?

I resolved to enter contests (unless they are the "big" ones) that only provide feedback.

I recently entered one that provided insightful feedback. However, knowing each contest has different standards the reviewer may be somebody's cousin, how much faith do you put in th review?

Thanks,

Don

Has anyone heard of this company or can you direct me to a website to check them out?

I subscribed to a free website (infolist.com) and was refered to them about sending my script. I sent a logline and sypnosis via e-mail and received an email of "sounds good, send us a ahrd copy". However, there was no request for a release form. Should I be a wary?

There website seems to be legitamate and did not see "script coverage fees" anywhere.

Thanks,

Don

Sorry speeling error, hard copy of my script.

Don

Thanks.

So I shouldn't worry too much about signing a release contract before sending my script?

Don

Thanks all!

Sending the script out now. :D

Don

Luke,

I almost feel the exact same way about entering contests. After awhile, it starts becoming expensive not just the entry fee itself but also shipping. And way too many choices.You also start to question the readers if they are really judging the script by the quality or really the presentation.

Have you tired signing up with Inktip.com? I have used them once and plan to use them again. You can actually receive notification and check whose reading your scripts even the sypnopsis. Although in my case I found that a lot of the producers almost all of them, were not widely known. Two even downloaded it to read. But at least they read it. Worth the price in my opinion.

Don

PS I am in no way affiliated with Inktip.com. I just found it to be a great web site and a great service. Just like almost anything purchaseable, you really rely on word of mouth for recommendations.

Add me to the love it list of "Always". Loved the flying scenes.

I don't have a particular film that I am ashmaed of loving. But my list of I should have waited for it to come out on network t.v. instead of renting it is very long.

Don

I don't have the email address but it is my understanding that unless you have an agent, they do not accept unsolicited submissions\queries.

Hope that helps,

Don

I have a Canon MP530 3 in 1 inkjet just because of the convienence. Works great and i'm very happy with it.

If you consider an HP inkjet, check what kind of cartridges it uses. When I was shopping, the big criticism was that if one tank ran out, you had to replace all three...not individually like Canon. That could get very expensive in the long run.

Don

Hello All,

Just a informal poll on who writes the log line before they write the script or after.

I "write" my logline after my first draft is completed and for some reason I am having trouble coming up with one. So, I'm trying it other way.

Don

Here's some thoughts to ponder...

Saddam remains in power. He continues to compensate and encourage young Palestinians to suicide bomb against Israel. He ponders about invading Kuwait or even Jordan not for the oil or power in the region, but because he's running out of land for his mass graves...and that's just for the soccer team that failed to make the World Cup once again.

Hammas(sp?) remains in control of the government of Lebanon, "encouraged" by Sadaam and Iran to threaten Israel. As a result, Syria seizes the opportunity and does what it can to help the cause.

Iran, led by its' President who denies the holocust and vows to destroy the state of Israel, continues to develop its' nuclear capability while the U.N. insists on diplomatic negotiations and while conducting inspections is not given free access. The President is caught on camera salivating every time the word Israel is mentioned.

Meanwhile, oil prices continue to decline and therefore gas prices also decline enabling the increase of purchasing gas guzzling S.U.V.'s, fueled by the belief that gas prices will remain like this forever! As a result, Al Gore focuses his attention to try to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony. Due to his effort, American Idol is cancelled after Sanjaya sings and dances a perfect rendition of Michael Jackson's "Bad". This leads to Americans to become more and more isolated, satisfied that were are already doing enough to fight terrorism. Homeland security then turns it's attention to the Democrats, doing an extensive search belieivng they are dead or missing because they are so strangely quiet.

So, I wonder what the situation would be in the Mid East now, especially for Israel?

Sue,

My condolences for you and your family on the loss of your father. Glad to hear your husband is doing much better.

As in regards to mentioning treatments, I have never mentioned it in my query. In most cases, I have found if they are interested, they will ask for a treatment or the script itself.

Although, I have found some smaller production companies who accept unsolicted submissions on their website. But they all said they will accept a query or treatment.

To me, if I have a finished script, it is much easier and maybe even more securer(in terms of copyrights/rights) to send the script instead of the treatment.

Don

Hello All,

Just wondering if any one has had any success(ie)querys) using the Hollywood Creative Directory's Representation book.

My local library does not carry it and it is a little expensive too purchase. Not to mention they update it every few months.

I have purchased the Producer/Studio directory in the past but one still has to go to the company's website for up to date info plus many only work through agents. No luck as of yet...

Don

Thanks all!

Very helpful info.

Don

Randy/John,

Maybe it's just and I'm reading too much bewtween the lines. But sounds like things are moving forward and I might add, quite well.

My congrats and continued success to both of you.

Don

Randy,

Not sure of your personal finances or your time availibilty but UCLA extension offers courses, some online and two day workshops. If it wasn't for financial reasons and of course living in Arizona, I would love to take some of their courses. I took a quick glance and they do offer courses on producing and budgeting. If desired, you can pursue your certificate. But like I said, some cost as little as $495 and require weeks to complete.

Don

Randy,

You're welcome. Here's hoping there's enough demand for the course to make it available online or a two day workshop.

Don

Hi!

Anyone get a chance to watch this reality show about aspiring directors produced by Mark Burnett and Steven Spielberg?

I read that the ratings were pretty dismal. Although it was up against some pretty tough competition.

Thanks,

Don

PS Got caught up on "Veronica Mars" and completely forgot about it!

I'll catch some of "On the Lot" tonight. Two hours.

Speaking of "Project Greenlight", was that movie ever released?

Don

One of the best competitions I have found that offers excellent feedback is The John Templeton Foundation Kairos Prize for Spiritually Uplifting Screenplays. The prize amount to say the least is absolutely breath taking. I do believe somebody on this board did win.

Of course your script must be spiritually uplifting and they are pretty specific about it in their rules.

Don

Just to add my two cents, there's your vision and then there's the director's and producer's vision. The three do not neccessarily coincide.(The scripts Paula gave an example were probably the shooting scripts not the original). When I write descripton, I try to give a general feel/mood(maybe too general)knowing, if the script ever gets sold, there will be definately be rewrties. In other words, like the previous post(s), try not to be too specific.

I only watched one episode because it was up against "CSI: Miami". And I don't have TiVo. But I think it would have been a better show if it was only half an hour.

Just to be clear on this.

A person should just concentrate on the story and then wait for the rewrite depnding on which studio(major or indie) picks it up? Or should one "customize" it for the stuidos they are sending it too?

The reason I ask this, is because places such as inktip.com ask for budget ranges and honestly I'm not very good in determing budgets for my script(s).

Bill,

I agree with Heather and Paula. Entering a contest is much cheaper and you will get a sense of how good your script really is. Also if you place well or even win, notice how many agents and producers it will reach. I am not too sure how much of this is true(maybe somebody can add to this), but I have heard placing well or even winning a contest looks better/appealing to producers than independent coverage.

Teri,

Loved the information. Makes me wish I was on the celebrity's "payroll".

It also reminds me of something I read somewhere(of course don't know if it's true or not) that John Cravolta's career was such in the dumps that he basically did "Pulp Fiction" for nothing! I guess some people just don't learn.

Oops!

Sorry. I did mean Terri and Travolta.

Bobby,

Check with the American Film Insitute.

Also, check your local tv listings. I beleive they also have a special on tv this week.

Heather,

How is it compared to Bruce Almighty? Acknowleding of course that it was Jim Carey. I thought the first one was okay, great concept but I thought they could have "pushed the edge" a little more.

Don PS I am debating whether to see this one, the new Dreamworks animation or Robin Williams' new one.

How do you decide to enter a screenwriting contest?/ Do you look at the prizes offered and does that influence you?

Not to be a kiss up, but I honestly read the report cards here on MB. I'm sure as most of you, I have the constant nagging doubts about my scripts so I mainly concentratee on contests that offer feedback. Based on all that, if I'm going to pay the entry fee, I might as well enter one that offers prizes. Might as well take a shot at making some money.

Do you have several scripts you sort through and pick and choose which ones you want to send to which contests?

Yes. Despite all the books/blogs etc. that say you should concentrate on one genre, I am one of those weird writers. Once I come up with an idea, I run it through the many voices in my head and see how it works. Some are better as comedys. Some thrillers etc. etc. So, I usually pick the best of the bunch and enter it. Of course I often fall into the trap of entering the script you fell in love with and just can't let go of.

I have to agree with John though. I do have doubts about entering for exposure. There are writers on winningscipts.com that have won so many contests/prizes that it is equivalent to having a part time job and still haven't been sold. It makes me wonder is it the idea just not marketable or is it the writers themselves?

"Passion of the Christ" did a lot better than every one thinks. It may be have been due to the movie itself or marketing. But not only was the movie released close to Easter but also DVD's were released to Church's. They held screenings for a small donation to the Church. I didn't like the "40 Year Old Virgin" either...still don't find the "Kelly Clarkson" scene that funny. But if it's a good family movie, I'll probably see it. Probably after "Ratatouile(?)" and of course "Transformers".

Tito,

Fantastic story.

Heather,

I too am a Christian. Unfortunately, in today's times the trend seems to pick and/or blame not just Christianity but all religions for today's problems.

But just like the political system, each religion has their own spectrum from fanatic to liberal. People just lump them together and assume the worst. Such as Muslims are terrorists when it's really Islamic Extremists are the ones killing.

Every time I hear a comment whether intentional or not, I basically ignore it. Not only beacuse I am Catholic and we are still washing the blood off our hands but because when tragedy happens, personal or for society as a whole(9/11, Katrina, etc.), people turn to faith to help them get through.

Even though the bible was considered one of the greatest historical books or the greatest story ever told, it's authenticiy was in question until the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered. Boy did that quiet a lot of people. Of course that confirmed the old testament but that's another discussion.

As for movie producers, because of the targeted audience, I believe they err on the side of caution. It's best to follow the bible almost literally otherwise you open a whole new can of worms.

What about having a character who loves to quote movies?

I have a comedy where one of the protagonists constantly incorporates movie lines into conversations. Sometimes, others just don't get it so he has to tell them what movie it's from.

Thanks.

David,

Thanks! I have an Asian based script too and I have never heard of the FAIF-AICAA INT. contest.

If you could, could you please tell why personally you think this is a good contest to enter and not just because it's mainly for Asian scripts?

Don

Tito,

Wow!

I'll be perfectly honest with you, I ask for signs all the time and gripe about not getting any. If that happened to me, I would not have noticed it! Thanks for reminding me that God does work in mysterious ways and that sometimes we just simply have to open our eyes.

Hi All!

For those who do not read Craig Mazin's blog,

Check out his entry of July 25 at artfulwriter.com.

Fantastic explanation of how writer's get paid and an easy to follow explanation of contracts.

Marc,

Not sure if I made the quarters. Came back from vacation and had a lot of junk mail. :)

Congrats to all who made the semis!

I'm very impressed that the voting was very close this year with past winners and writers who have been optioned and/or produced entering. Says a lot about the level of competition this year.

Martin,

All of the release agreements I have been sent/signed have come from small and/or specialized production companies. In essence, they are protecting themselves and they are only reading it for further review or possbile development. In other words: "Yeah we'll read it. But this doesn't meant we're buying it so stop writng us."

Gregory,

Some great advice by the others.

For me personally, I would just write:

"Thank you for consideration. I have also included my email adress for futher correspondence".

It would sound more professional.

Then add your name, adress, phone# and email at the end.

If they want to see your script, they'll contact you and tell you the most convenient way to send it.

Welcome Elaine!

First, research the companies that have produced similar genres to yours. And for all companies, remember not all of them take unsolicited queries. And if they do, some will take email queries making it a whole lot cheaper. Some will sugggest phoning but that can get pretty exepensive and possbily the run around.

Second, peruse the trade mags or donedeal.com to see what is being bought. You'll get a sense of what's hot in the market and who's buying.

Lastly, keep writing. There's no set response time for them or even any response. Don't bother with a SASE, 95% won't bother with it.

I also agree with Heather. Find a system to keep track. Keep a copy of sent queries and any responses. It's just for your own protection.

Good luck,

Don

Forget to add, send as many queries out as you want. But like I said, just keep writing.

Don

I too have had neither and also an unsold writer.

From what I have read, managers guide your career or help develop your craft by opening doors for you while agents act more like a laywer; they sell and rep you on deals. Agents only make money on a sale so they're a little more aggressive than a manager who sets a nominal fee.

I have heard both sides of the issue. Some say the easiest way to get ino the business is to get a manager. Others say if you have a great script, agents will be knocking your door down with your chances of being sold better.

But I'm sure there are more opinions out there.

I just received a brochure for David S. Freeman's workshop "Beyond Structure" in L.A, Sept. 29-30.

Has anyone attented this and what are your thoughts? It's $400($100 off fly- in discount)not including hotel and meals.

Thanks,

Don

Thanks guys.

I have heard of him before but never heard any feedback about his seminars. :)

Bob,

LOL.

Sorry about that. I mistyped and it should read: donedealpro.com.

There is a fee though to join. There might be others that are free.

Congrats to all!

I didn't make it but I entered with my first attempt at a horror script and look forward to the feedback.

Heather,

This may sound stupid but I'm just wondering...

Is the producer willing to give a referal for your friend? Not only would it be easier but also if the producer only accepts scripts through an agent/laywer and now they really want to read the script, to me it sounds like they are interested.

Curious and wishing good luck to your friend,

Don

WHAT?!

I too was eagerly anticipating the movie. Some months ago, Tom Selleck said he was interested. Magnum was known for his moustache and Tom Selleck had that perfect! I just can't see cage with the moustache, the Ferrari(they'll probably chnge that too!)and the gorgeous girls. I hope this is just some kind of joke to reel in Selleck or maybe Cage plays a bad guy. Otherwise, those producers need to be shot!

Congrats to all!

I just received an email that beacuse the quality of the scripts was so high this year, they're releasing the contact information(to those producers who request it) of those made the quarter finals and above!

So, good luck to all!

Jason,

I too was wondering the same. But if you notice some of the scripts on winning scripts are multiple winners. Money may be the big motivation. It's easily turned into a part- time job for some.

Don

Congrats John!

Don

Martin,

I'm not a lawyer but to me it sounds like they are just covering their bases in terms of reputation. They are ensuring that you own the rights to the screenplay you have written(ie. based on a book/person's life).

BTW, I have signed a couple of release forms from smaller prod. co.'s and they all had the same agreement. It was just a release from to read it and not to purchase.

Don

Dang. I should have replaced my angry, young career determined woman who recently had a baby with a pitbull puppy.

Am I correct in assuming those who received their scores on Script Savvy entered early? I entered late and haven't received anything as of yet.

Don

Congrats Linda!

I for one, love your previous posts and look forward to all the "juicy" details. Leave nothing out. :)

Don

Congrats Lisa

D

Good luck and congrats to all!

Didn't make the quaters but made the top 20% but still happy, albeit through gritted teeth :).

Don

Mike,

I have personally used inktip three times and have had no problems what so ever. In fact, inktip has a fairly good reputation and has a better success rate than most others.

Only registered users can access the site and only you the writer(besides prod. co.s) can see your own work. I could be wrong, but my understanding is that prod.co's, agents, etc. must agree to a legal contract before they get access to your work...they can only see your logline and then they have the option of downloading the synopsis and/or script.

The snail mail only contains loglines and in your case, would also be grouped by contest finalists and then sperately by genre. If the prod. co's want to see more then they would have to access the online site.

BTW, I'm assuming you received this as part of the award. If so, then isn't the free exposure good? IMHO it is much, much better than paying about $65 for six months of exposure.

I believe there is more information regarding this in their FAQ section.

Hope this helps,

Don

Mike-

According to Donna's post everyone who placed received a score of 53 and up. So maybe your script was that good. :)

Donna-

I am one of the 40 still waiting for feedback. But your constant updates and honesty are much appreciated. I wish all contets were run with professionalism such as yours.

Don

Connie-

I wish you continuing success in your recovery.

Colin,

Congrats! A huge door has just been opened for you!

Walter,

In regards to a follow up after waiting for two weeks, do you just keep it short and simple by saying thank you? Or is it okay to ask also what they thought about it?

Don

Thanks Walter,

I've done a couple of follow ups and received no reply.

My assumption was that it was the #2 scenario but I was worried that by doing a follow up, I just annoyed them.

Don

Um Ben,

You really need to do some research about Malibu.

San Diego area probably needs help but with California alone having a population more than the enire country of Canada and also considered as the 5th largest economy in the world(yes, bigger than Canada's), my guess you will get a "no thank you".

BTW, I'm being very polite in my response.

Don't know about payment but one thing you must absolutely do is make sure you have a legally binding contract... before you start writing anything at all. It will protect you and him and avoid any possible legal ramifications in the future.

Don

Just my two cents worth.

Despite the looming, black cloud of a strike, we're also heading into the holidays considered by many as the slow down period.

You can send out your queries but don't expect a reply if any, till the holidays are over. By that time, contest season will have started again and you might consider entering one(just to see how good your script(s)really are.

Don

Colin,

I agree with everyone else here. This person is a sad, angry, jealous person who is so frustraed with thier own career that they feel the need to destroy other people's hopes, dreams and hard work. With that being said, I don't think this person has the character to call you up much less own up to it.

Sending a concerned letter after the results were announced could mean one of thousands. But I hope it's not one of us. I for one have enjoyed and learned from the many posts here and I also hope that this incident does not discouarge people from posting their sucesses much less than their wonderful advice.

Don(eating my comfort food of chocolate and beer)

PS I just came up with a great idea of a scorned wrtier going on a rampage against those who betrayed him. But my guess is that I would probably have get the rights from you Colin. :)

Brian,

I agree.

His past posts regarding spending thousands of dollars on using script consultants and contests; then posting about volunteering to help out in the aftermath of the wildfires has led me to question him.

I have learned from playing "World of Warcraft"(which I must emphasize I do not do anymore), I am giving him the benefit of the dobut that he maybe young and naive and/or the possibility that he may be sharing the computer with another person.

BTW, if you don't like what he posts, then the simple answer is don't reply. If he is a poser, he'll eventually get the hint(hopefully).

I saw the entire series on the Sci- Fi channel.

Without giving too much away, they do make a connection with the original, "OZ".

I liked it overall, but to me, there was something off. I don't know if it was the acting or the script itself. There were many times where you could predict DG's(played by Zoey Dechanel) reaction after a beat.

Alan Cumming(Glitch), was as usual, gave a great performance. I also enjoyed Kathleen Robertson's perfomance as Askedilla(sp?).

BTW, if you are really into SFX, you'll thoroughly enjoy this movie.

Hear! Hear! John.

Once you have entered this contest, you will wish that all of the contests had the profesionalism, courtesy and work ethics of Jennifer.

Don

I have FD v.5 that I bought pretty cheap through an amazon.com third party.

I have also seen ads for MM that offer a huge discount for users of FD(less than $100).

BTW, if you decide to go with FD v.6, I have read a lot of complaints about that version- it's horrible. Even worse, was the customer service.

Same to you Randy.

I celebrate Christmas but I'll say Happy Holidays to all. Don't want to be on Terry F.'s bad side. :)

Here's to a safe and healthy new year and that all our dreams come true.

Don

And all those mass graves they found after the war, were of course people who died of natural causes and not of Sadaam's hand. Lest not forget the national soccer team who came back from the World Cup without placing and were torutured and/or killed because of it. Just a couple of examples.

Side note: There are many more factors why oil is at $96. Oil co.'s have been pulled out of Sudan because of Dafur. Nigeria has had attacks on it's pipeline. Don't forget OPEC does what it wants and when. The U.S. only receives 10% of it's oil from the Middle East; the rest comes from Canada, Mexico, our own states and some South American countries(at one point, Venezuela but now there's another nut job there too). I watch a lot of CNBC but that's another story.

I'm personally glad that oil is this high. Gets these people of those dam SUV's. The same ones who complain about global warming.

Back to the origianl question, I'm not 100% sure, but the issue of who wrote the script may be changed if you have a deal. That's how it works in novel writing. The name can be changed to a pseuydenom when you have a contract.

BTW, have you could considered writing it as a novel? People can conjur their own images instead of physicall seeing one's interpretation. When it comes to writing that deals with religion there will always be controversy. Every religion has its' own extremists, so they are very sensitive to anything produced.

I'm struggling with the same issue in a script that I have turned into a novel. I've realized the script which would only cater to small, specialized, prod. cos is too high budget . Even though the novel is about 80% fiction and the rest historical fact, I worry that the hard liners would rise up and cause a ruckus. Not so much in terms of death, but hate mails, slander on the blogs, etc.