Congratulations! If you’re reading this, you’ve likely just accomplished something BIG. You’ve finished your screenplay, revised, revised, revised, and now you have a story you’re proud to show off. You’re probably wondering, “Where do I submit my screenplay so that someone can actually read it and see how wonderful it is?”
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There are so many ways to get your screenplay out there, whether you’re trying to sell your script, get recognition in a contest, or just get feedback on your screenwriting skills. We’ve rounded up a few of those options below so you can get started right away.
Pitch Your Screenplay
If you want to sell your screenplay, start researching producers and production companies within the same genre of your script. Narrow down the companies that might consider your work by researching the type of films or TV shows they usually produce. Research personnel and check their social media accounts to see the other projects they’ve worked on. The contact should be interested in your story’s style. Some resources for finding these contacts include:
Pay attention to the company’s submission guidelines. Some companies want paper, others want PDFs, and some will only look at submissions that come via an agent or manager. If you’re interested in finding an agent, this resource at Backstage.com is a good place to start.
Lastly, always send a thank you letter follow up. Snail mail for this purpose is a nice touch.
Get Recognition for Your Screenplay
Some screenwriters get their big break by winning screenplay competitions. Contests range from free to expensive, but certain competitions can be worth your time. Review past years’ winners: did they have their screenplay made into a movie or TV show? Did they make any great connections? Consider reaching out to them to glean more information.
That said, there are several contests that many screenwriters agree are worth your time and hard-earned money, such as this list from Stephanie Palmer at GoodInARoom.com. Some standouts include:
- Academy Nicholl Fellowships
- Austin Screenwriting Competition
- PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
- BlueCat Screenplay Competition
Submit Your Screenplay
In addition to pitching and entering contests, there are several online platforms for uploading your script for consideration, whether it be feedback or discovery you’re looking for. A couple platforms to consider include:
BBC Writers Room
BBC Writers Room works with and develops new and experienced writers across genres. In addition to offering up resources for writers, BBC Writers Room also hosts a portal for writers to submit content during two open windows per year to The Script Room. According to the website, BBC promises to read at least the first 10 pages of your script, then offer up development opportunities to the best and brightest.
The Blacklist
The Blacklist pegs itself as a website “where filmmakers and writers meet,” with portals for screenwriters to submit their scripts and for film & TV professionals to discover them. You can post your script to the website for review for a fee of $25 per month.
Some final words of advice: Be aware that producers may love your story or core concept yet decide that they don’t love your script. There’s also a chance that they don’t respond to you at all or reject your work entirely. Screenwriters say that rejection is often the overwhelming result of the pitching process, but a necessary step. Don’t let it discourage you! It only takes one person to love what you’ve written, so keep believing in yourself and your story. You can do this!
Happy writing.
