Submitting a screenplay requires careful preparation and adherence to specific protocols. The first step involves researching potential producers, agents, or contests that align with the screenplay’s genre and target audience. Once suitable entities are identified, writers must craft a compelling query letter that introduces the screenplay’s premise, characters, and unique elements. The query letter should be concise, professional, and tailored to each recipient. Finally, writers must follow submission guidelines carefully, including formatting requirements and submission fees, to ensure their screenplay is properly considered.
How to Submit a Screenplay
Submitting a screenplay is a crucial step in the screenwriting process, and it’s important to do it right. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the submission process successfully:
1. Prepare Your Screenplay
- Format it correctly: Use industry-standard screenplay formatting software or a template.
- Proofread carefully: Check for any errors in spelling, grammar, and continuity.
- Get feedback: Share your screenplay with trusted readers and ask for constructive criticism.
2. Research Potential Submission Targets
- Identify festivals: Look for film festivals that accept screenplay submissions.
- Target competitions: Research screenplay competitions that offer cash prizes, industry exposure, or mentorship.
- Query agents and producers: Reach out to literary agents and producers who represent screenwriters.
3. Create a Submission Package
- Logline: Write a short, compelling summary of your screenplay in one sentence.
- Synopsis: Provide a concise overview of the story, including major plot points and character arcs.
- Cover letter: Introduce yourself, highlight your writing experience, and state why you’re submitting to that particular target.
4. Submit Your Screenplay
- Follow submission guidelines: Each festival, competition, or agent/producer will have specific submission requirements.
- Use a professional email: Create a professional email address for screenplay submissions.
- Send a personalized message: Customize your cover letter and email to each submission target.
- Include a tracking system: Keep track of your submissions for reference.
5. Post-Submission Actions
- Be patient: Screenplays often take time to be reviewed.
- Follow up: If you don’t hear back within the stated timeframe, follow up politely via email.
- Don’t give up: Keep submitting your work. Rejection is part of the process.
Table of Common Submission Formats
| Format | Details |
|---|---|
| Industry standard, preferred by most targets | |
| DOCX | Acceptable for some competitions and agents |
| Final Draft | Screenwriting software file, may require conversion to PDF |
| Fade In | Another screenwriting software file, may require conversion to PDF |
Question 1:
- What are the general steps involved in submitting a screenplay?
Answer:
- Submitting a screenplay generally involves preparing the screenplay, researching potential submission opportunities, sending the screenplay to the desired entity, and following up appropriately.
Question 2:
- What should screenwriters consider when choosing a submission method?
Answer:
- Screenwriters should consider factors such as the reputation, deadlines, submission guidelines, and fees associated with different submission methods.
Question 3:
- How can screenwriters increase their chances of getting their screenplays read by decision-makers?
Answer:
- Screenwriters can improve their chances by writing a well-written, formatted, and polished screenplay, following submission guidelines, submitting to the appropriate entity, networking with industry professionals, and promoting their work.
Whew! That’s a wrap for our guide on how to submit your screenplay. We hope it’s been helpful. Remember, getting your script out there is just the first step. Keep the writing flowing, and keep believing in your stories. And hey, why not stop back in from time to time? We’re always adding new tips and insights to help you on your screenwriting journey. Stay creative, stay inspired, and see you soon!