Getting your finished spec script into the right hands can often feel like an upward struggle. And while finding the right producer or director for your project is one thing, getting prospective collaborators to actually read your script is another.
Agents, producers, and screenwriting contests receive hundreds, if not thousands, of scripts each year. Readers help determine which scripts get forwarded to decision-makers, often by assigning them a rating - Pass, Consider, or Recommend.
So how do you get a Consider, or even better, a Recommend for your script? Here are our top 10 tips.
1. DEMONSTRATE AN INTRIGUING CONCEPT
This is fundamentally the most important aspect of writing a screenplay. No matter how well crafted a screenplay is, if the idea or premise isn’t a compelling one, the script won't resonate. What about your script is new and unique? What is your point of view, and how is it different from other scripts in the genre?
2. MAKE AN EARLY IMPACT
Readers read multiple scripts each week (some reading even upwards of a dozen!) and making an early impression can help keep your reader interested. Writers are often surprised to hear that readers don't always read the entire script - if it doesn't quickly grab them and make them want to know more, the reader often won't make it beyond the first 20 pages.
3. USE WHITE SPACE WELL
You want to make the reading experience smooth and enjoyable, and a script that is congested is often difficult to read and digest.
Avoid writing long paragraphs detailing action content, and consider eliminating lengthy monologues. Ensure there is a solid amount of white space on each page.
4. CREATE DIALOGUE THAT SPEAKS VOLUMES
Creating interesting dialogue is as much about the words each character speaks as it is about each character's tone, cadence, and affect. Make sure all characters sound appropriate to their age, background, and setting. If you covered up the name in the script, would you know who was speaking? If the answer is no, get back to editing.
5. DON'T FORGET THE VILLAIN
This might sound simple, but often writers become so focused on developing their protagonist, that the antagonist is overlooked. Not only is an antagonist necessary for creating conflict, it can also create a more satisfying arc for your main character. The harder it is to defeat an antagonist, the more rewarding the victory for the protagonist.
6. ELIMINATE UNNECESSARY DETAILS
The writer's job is to write clearly and concisely, and use each and every page to advance the conflict, subconflicts, and resolution. Only include details that are pertinent to the storyline - details like clothing, hair color, and more should only be included if it's necessary to the story. If the color of the protagonist's dress is part of the story, include it. If not, leave it to the production team.
7. LIMIT SUBCONFLICTS
When subconflicts are done well, they help to move the story forward, adding another layer of depth to the script. Too many subconflicts, though, detract from the story and often are the culprits in pacing problems. Focus on a handful of subconflicts at most, and ensure they drive the story forward, rather than distract from it.
8. CONSIDER THE BUDGET
While this applies less to contests and more to agents and producers, find ways to make your script as budget-friendly as possible by limiting locations, characters, and special effects. Be aware about what kinds of scripts the company you're querying typically produces - if they have a history of producing low-budget comedies, don't send them a high-budget thriller.
9. GIVE IT ONE FINAL POLISH
While formatting, spelling, or grammar problems may not necessarily tank your script, errors can interrupt the flow of the reader's experience. Make a good first impression, and be sure to use screenwriting software. If spelling or grammar isn't your strength, consider utilizing a proofreading service like the one we offer here at Shore Scripts.
10. GET ANOTHER SET OF EYES
Before submitting your script to a contest, producer, or agent, get another opinion on your work. It's often difficult to approach your story through an objective lens, and another set of eyes can help identify opportunities for improvement. Coverage services, like what we offer at Shore Scripts, can help take your script to the next level by providing solid, actionable feedback.
We hope these tips help you get your script past the initial reader and into the right hands. Which tip do you find most helpful with your current script? We’d love to hear from you!
