Video Contests, Film Festivals, and Awards

Script Savvy's Screenplay Contest is featured in the March 2009 Edition of StudentFilmmakers Magazine, the # 1 Educational Resource for Film and Video Makers. Read the accompanying online article here.

What are some elements that can make a really strong and solid screenplay submission for your contest? Could you share an inside tip or two for those who want to know what kinds of scripts win Script Savvy's competitions?

Donna White: We're open to all genres, so there are no favorites there. But some of the main things our judges look for are "lean" and lively writing, solid story structure, and something that leaves an impression: whether that means it made us laugh, cry or cringe. Every screenwriter's goal should be to make the words pop off the page and come to life in the reader's imagination.

What are typical weaknesses that you see in script submissions for the contest?

Donna White: The most common problem is that some writers have a great idea, but they have no knowledge of industry standards and expectations. It's important to learn about story structure, terminology, all that stuff that isn't so much fun. If you want to be a professional writer, you have to do your homework. There's no way around it.

By the way, what is your opinion on screenwriting / script formatting software?

Donna White: I would fall in the 'pro software' category, especially now that there are free online alternatives to expensive software. Poor formatting will, unfortunately, prejudice most readers in Hollywood against your script. It's in your best interest to make a good first impression. Think of your script's formatting as the suit you'd wear to a job interview. It says a lot about how much you want job.

Could you share with us a little bit about your background, as well as your experience as contest Coordinator for Script Savvy?

Donna White: I'm a writer myself. I founded Script Savvy as an answer to those giant, impersonal contests where screenplays go to disappear. I wanted to create a contest that is small, approachable, writer-friendly, and most of all � effective. Although we have grown significantly over the years, I'm proud to say that we've maintained our personal touch and integrity.

In your own words, could you tell us a little bit about the Script Savvy Screenplay Contest?

Donna White: Our mission is twofold: To connect writers with filmmakers, and to foster emerging talent. We have a new contest and call for entries every month.

How many years has Script Savvy been running contests?

Donna White: We started four years ago. Our first two competitions were annual, but during our 'off season' we'd get so many requests for feedback that we decided to open up all year long. Which, of course, creates more chances to win, too!

What would you say sets Script Savvy apart from other screenwriting competitions?

Donna White: There are so many things. The monthly format is certainly a plus because you don't have to wait forever to get results. Our feedback is perhaps our greatest strength. Because the contest is relatively small in terms of entries, we are able to provide detailed, constructive feedback, giving each script its due. And lastly, our strong advocacy for our winners sets us apart. We vigorously pitch our winners to our producer sponsors, and continue to advocate for them long after their contest is over. In fact, we use the word 'customers' instead of 'contestants'. That gives you some idea of how different our philosophy is.

Who judges Script Savvy's contests?

Donna White: Because we provide feedback from an industry perspective, our judges are professional readers with real-world experience at major production companies such as Paramount and Focus Features.

How many entries do you generally receive for every contest?

Donna White: The current trend seems to run between 120-150 entries per month.

Who are your typical screenwriters who enter their works and participate? Are they strictly professional writers, or are they a mix of students, new and aspiring, and professionals?

Donna White: All of the above and everything in between. We're open to everybody so I've met construction workers and kindergarten teachers and even lawyers and doctors who have always dreamed of writing a screenplay and took the plunge. We get lots of young people in the contest and senior citizens too. It's a joy to help foster their dreams, no matter what their level of experience may be.

Although not necessarily the first thing that's important for some passionate artists ~ the first thing that everybody asks about contests is, "What are the prizes?" Could you tell us about the kinds of prizes that Script Savvy awards to winners?

Donna White: We offer a cash prize every month, multiple prizes that provide exposure to literally thousands of industry execs, free equery services, a free course in marketing your script, and our recommendation to our diverse group of producer sponsors.

Aside from the prizes, what would you say are the real important benefits and advantages to entering and participating in Script Savvy's screenwriting call for entries?

Donna White: A great advantage of our contest is that it has something for everyone. You can enter with or without feedback, depending on your needs and budget concerns. Also, every customer gets our free ebook Directory of Screenwriter Agents and Managers, so nobody walks away empty-handed.

If you could share a piece of advice for aspiring screenwriters around the world, what would it be?

Donna White: Learn about the industry. Write from the heart. Get your work out there!

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Script Savvy's March contest deadline is March 31, 2009. For information on upcoming monthly deadlines, and to submit your scripts, go to www.scriptsavvy.net.

Want a copy of this issue? Click here to get a copy of the March 2009 Edition of StudentFilmmakers Magazine.