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Scott Stoops @hellastoopss, manager at Good Fear, offers screenwriting contest tips! @roadmapwriters co-hosts
Great chat with Manager Scott Stoops and RoadMap Writers' Joey Tuccio giving tips on contests and querying! Enjoy! @jeannevb
- IT’S #SCRIPTCHAT O’CLOCK: @HellaStoopsS mgr Good Fear talking #screenwriting contest tips! Co-host @roadmapwriters! http://scriptchat.blogspot.com/p/how-to-chat.html …
- #scriptchat Yay! Hi @jeannevb !!
- Time for #scriptchat with guest @HellaStoopsS (mgr Good Fear) talking #screenwriting contest tips! Co-host @roadmapwriters!
- Best site to participate in #scriptchat is here (auto-ads the hashtag): http://www.tchat.io/rooms/scriptchat …
- Hello all you happy people. #scriptchat
- @Al_1701 Hello to you as well! #Scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters *pours margaritas*... let's get this chat started! Shoot Qs out about #screenwriting contests! #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Let's start out with your biggest #screenwriting contest pet peeves... #scriptchat
- I suppose it's good that there are so many; but hard to differentiate all of them #scriptchat
- I worked 1 contest, saw bad scripts advanced by easy graders and good scripts knocked out by nitpickers. Luck of the draw. #scriptchat
- Here (lurking). #scriptchat
- How do I know which entry category to pick? As a black female, should I always enter the "Diversity" category? #Scriptchat
- @ScripTipps it's so subjective. Can be demoralizing for writers. Any tips for finding the right contest for the project? #scriptchat
- How do recommend using a finalist placement (in a prestigious pitch contest) to get reads from managers & producers? #scriptchat
- Page 20 is too late for your "big moment" to impress contest readers. You must hook them in the first 5 pages. #scriptchat
- @Ms_T_Marie I would select the category that best fits the genre you are writing in right? #scriptchat
- @rdlln Great question. Honestly everyone is so hungry for material if you are a finalist or win you will be read already #scriptchat
- @jeannevb I kinda agree with mazin & august, the only ones that matter are nicholls and maybe austin #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS @rdlln but you can add a contest win to your querry letter which might get ppl more interested to read #scriptchat
- @ScripTipps AFF has last yrs 2nd rounders reading the first batch of script. That's a no-go for me. #scriptchat
- @ScripTipps @jeannevb Launch Pad is also good, it's generally more commercial scripts than Austin or Nicholls #scriptchat
- Launch Pad is GREAT. #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS trouble is they only announce the winner (at least that's what they did last year) This year's hasn't been chosen #scriptchat
- @roadmapwriters And of course any contests Roadmap is running :) #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS Any good contests for TV shows rather than features? #scriptchat
- @roadmapwriters YES to Launch Pad being great! I was in Top 25 & they got me a ton of reads & connections. #scriptchat
- I agree Launch Pad is great! #scriptchat
- Hi @HellaStoopsS, @roadmapwriters, @jeannevb, any thoughts on Big break, Tracking B and Page? Thx #scriptchat
- @collinlieberg @HellaStoopsS Austin, Launchpad, Script Pipeline and Final Draft (I think) have pilot competitions #scriptchat
- PAGE is great. They really care about their winners. I agree with Scott, Script Pipeline is great too. #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters in contests, do you think judges forego marketability of concept for a better written story? #scriptchat
- Good to hear good things about Launch Pad. I hadn't heard of them. I'll check it out. #scriptchat
- @AjRamanathan @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters @jeannevb Tracking B is solid, more commercial stuff from there. #scriptchat
- @AjRamanathan @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters @jeannevb Sold a spec out of Big Break, haven't tracked Page as much #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Q: What would you suggest a finalist/winner do to capitalize on the possible heat from a contest? #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Depends on the competition. Nicholls definitely yes. Others I think it just depends #scriptchat
- Keep an eye out for this one next year http://deadline.com/2017/02/universal-cable-productions-pitch-fest-for-storytellers-1201904890/ … I made the pitch round had a blast @collinlieberg @HellaStoopsS #scriptchat
- FYI, @HellaStoopsS is a judge for short film scripts in @scriptmag's Access Screenplay Contest https://filmfreeway.com/festival/AccessContest … #scriptchat
- Slamdance is also a really respected contest. They care more about the writer's voice vs marketability. #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Ppl should be reading you and asking for your script if you win #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters If ppl don't reach out, I would send out query letters asking if they want to read #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 Make sure you only highlight the important contests when querying. Too many contest wins work against you. #scriptchat
- great advice #scriptchat
- @rdlln @collinlieberg @HellaStoopsS Yes, we have a first look w/ UCP and they are excellent. They are champions of new voices #scriptchat
- Join #scriptchat right now talking #screenwriting contest tips w @HellaStoopsS mgr Good Fear @roadmapwriters cohost! http://www.tchat.io/rooms/scriptchat …
- @roadmapwriters @SarahAlexis4 Totally agree. A laundry list of semi-finalist placings is just too much to read. Select 1 or 2 #scriptchat
- @collinlieberg @HellaStoopsS Yes, lots of TV writing fellowship-type programs out there at the same level as Nicholls #scriptchat
- Hi @HellaStoopsS and @jeannevb I was wondering what would be the best #screenwriting competition for TV scripts? #scriptchat
- #1 advice - submit to any and every contest, so many ppl are out there looking for good material, great work will always rise #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Really tough. Short film is more a launch pad for a director than anything else #scriptchat
- If you say you placed or won too many, execs wonder why it wasn't made yet or why you aren't repped. It's a red flag to them. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Generally not looking for short scripts, more short films that can become features #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS Disagree. You'll go broke, and the industry only seeks out Nicholls winners, or Sundance labs, etc. #scriptchat
- @roadmapwriters Completely agree with this. #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS Q: Reading as a judge or mgr, what hooks you, keeps you reading? What turns you off/slows your read? #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS I meant short scripts as in entering it into a screenwriting contest @roadmapwriters #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 @HellaStoopsS Is it well written, is the premise fresh & interesting, after 15 pages do I need to know what's next #scriptchat
- @ScripTipps @HellaStoopsS From experience I disagree. Have signed and sold from practically every contest. #scriptchat
- Too much text in the first 15 pages of a script is often an instant turn off for contest readers. #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS @ScripTipps Doesn't matter what the competition is, just matters if we can find the script and if it's good #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 @HellaStoopsS Showstoppers: Absurd amount of typos, lack of clarity, nothing interesting happening by page 5. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters I don't have much experience w/ short script contests :( #scriptchat
- If you're lurking, jump in & ask Qs of @HellaStoopsS & @roadmapwriters. We're talking #screenwriting contests! #scriptchat
- Contests that honor more than just the grand prize winner is a big plus. #scriptchat
- @roadmapwriters Totally. And usually we will find someone in the semis or quarters that was more commercial #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS what's biggest mistake a writer who wins or places high in a contest can do? Mistakes to avoid? @roadmapwriters #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS Good 2 hear someone's looking at the other contest's winners. Not what I'm hearing from anyone else. #scriptchat
- @roadmapwriters Why wouldn't this be a red flag against the execs for not knowing/pursuing quality material? #scriptchat
- I hear a lot that the qf's and sf's in the bigger contests are more appealing than the winners. #scriptchat
- @ScripTipps @HellaStoopsS We want to find new voices, gotta look everywhere! :) especially where others aren't #scriptchat
- If you enter your #screenplays in multiple competitions how could you protect your ideas from plagiarism?@HellaStoopsS #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters not having a clear vision of your brand as a writer, not having the next idea #scriptchat
- @roadmapwriters Q: What else should writers have prepared if they get a read/meeting off a contest? ie Other scripts, loglines? #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS Are some months better for querying reps than others? #scriptchat
- @JazzBeeP @HellaStoopsS Don't worry about it, plagiarism is few and far between in my experience, esp if you have records #scriptchat
- @JazzBeeP @HellaStoopsS Register with copyright office. But honestly it's the last thing ppl need to worry about. #scriptchat
- @BlackSitcomDad @HellaStoopsS Summer and end of the year when people have time to read and are looking for new material #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 Other loglines are crucial. Know your brand. Even things you are still working on can be brought up. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @BlackSitcomDad wow that's a great question!!!
- @HellaStoopsS @BlackSitcomDad But really any time outside of pilot season. Personally I'm always looking & reading #scriptchat
- Re: talking about your "brand," here's a good article that gives tips http://www.scriptmag.com/features/career-features/tv-guide-defining-screenwriting-brand … Bookmark & read it after the chat #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 @roadmapwriters A few other ideas, don't bring up "trunk scripts" that u wrote yrs ago, interested in what's next #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS is truly a champion for writers. I know from first hand experience. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb In my experience, the only four contests that will further your career are Austin FF, Nicholls, Tracking Board, Tracking B. #scriptchat
- For query letters, all u need is a quick "hello" #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS not a lot of contests for animation. Any advice for animation writers in the feature space? #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS your logline, and maybe one or two highlights of awards/contest wins. Only thing that matters is the script tho #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS Probably have to google it, I don't know any specifically just for animation. sorry :/ #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS great question - animation also seems not to rate well on the contest space #scriptchat
- If you're not using correct spelling and grammar, going to be harder to trust you as a storyteller, even in log lines/queries #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @HellaStoopsS @jeannevb @roadmapwriters By quick hello, you mean just like Hi this is my logline whaddya think basically, right?
- Look at newer contests with respected judges. Those contests have more to prove and (should) work harder to get writers success. #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS meant since there are not contests for animation, did u have any tips for ppl who write that genre to get noticed? #scriptchat
- Outside of contests @roadmapwriters has a lot of great events / opportunities for emerging writers to learn / pitch / be read #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Look at what they offer along with other (not as good) sources :P #scriptchat
- @CrispyPhoenix Personalizing queries help. It shows the exec that the writer did research and cares about first impressions. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @HellaStoopsS @jeannevb @roadmapwriters perfect - thanks - & ppl aren't too busy w/ traveling etc at end of year to read?
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS Pitch fest, the black list website, places where you can host scripts and get reads. #scriptchat
- @CrispyPhoenix @HellaStoopsS @jeannevb @roadmapwriters That is when they should be reading! on plane rides and poolside :P #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS Do you ever take queries via Twitter, or email only? #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters #scriptchat Which contests would you suggest for first time writers/comedy writers?
- @HamishDwyer @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters I was just about to ask the same question! #scriptchat
- @HamishDwyer @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters If ur really new, pick one that gives feedback. #scriptchat
- Contests that give feedback are good for new writers. #scriptchat
- @HamishDwyer @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Launch Pad, Tracking Board, the more commercial ones #scriptchat
- He gets a bad rap, but Scriptshadow's Twitpitch was kind of cool. Be interesting if a bunch of reps coordinated something like #scriptchat
- Which contests give the best feedback? #scriptchat
- That's a really good point @Kin88E, but how do you know which contest gives feed back? @HellaStoopsS #scriptchat.
- @JazzBeeP @Kin88E contests w/feedback will list that option. It usually costs a bit more. @HellaStoopsS #scriptchat
- @JazzBeeP They should have it as an option (at an added cost) and some of the contest mentioned earlier offer feedback. #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters As new writer suggest starting with smaller contests for feedback or going straight to big one? #scriptchat
- I know the topic is contests, but are there any pitchfests that are legit/recommended? #scriptchat
- @collinlieberg @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Depends on the cost but I would say go for any of them #scriptchat
- @RoseAlexander34 VPF is good, great american, and anything @roadmapwriters is doing especially #scriptchat
- #scriptchat what's the current interest in non fiction?
- can't say enough good things about @roadmapwriters awesome group! #scriptchat
- 11 Tips to Capitalize on Screenplay Competition Placements by @aparham @scriptmag http://bit.ly/2nVJLWk #scriptchat #screenwriting
- @collinlieberg @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Some of the big ones have feedback. If u can afford, try some big, some small. #scriptchat
- @davideshannon1 True-Crime after Serial, Jinx, Making a Murderer is def very hot right now #scriptchat
- @davideshannon1 there seem to be a lot of non-fic scripts on the Black List. #scriptchat
- Great American Pitchfest @ThePitchFest is coming up in June. It's great. Tons of tips for navigating it: http://www.scriptmag.com/freemium-downloads-confirmation-how-to-sell-your-script/ … #scriptchat
- @ScripTipps @davideshannon1 Yeah. Another form of "IP" - scripts based on true events sell a lot, just depends on execution #scriptchat
- My 1st time Scriptchatting...it's been really informative! Thanks! #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters we talk a lot about grabbing reader in the beginning but what are common mistakes w/ endings? #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS Q: If you request a pilot to read from a contest, do you also want/expect a basic series bible at that point? #scriptchat
- @RoseAlexander34 a chat virgin! Welcome! Our tagline: Bring your tequila & leave your ego behind. :) *pours* #scriptchat
- @RoseAlexander34 Awesome, glad you joined us! #scriptchat
- F5 plug: HITCHCOCK: MASTERING SUSPENSE! Learn suspense from the master! 369pgs - $5.99 https://www.amazon.com/Hitchcock-Mastering-Suspense-Hitch-Writers-ebook/dp/B01EZGTR4O/secretsofactions … #scriptchat #writing #film
- #scriptchat my first time, too. Go ahead and rub it in :)
- @RoseAlexander34 Welcome! It's a fun group. I've been coming for about 2/3 months and see a lot of familiar tweeters #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters They might be forgiving of bad ending if they made it that far, loved it and can fix. #scriptchat
- If you want more #screenwriting contest tips, @roadmapwriters moderated a free online panel. Watch here: http://www.scriptmag.com/resources/contest-calendar/how-to-win-a-screenplay-contest-free-panel-watch-recording-now … #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 As a rule I never submit a pilot without having a bible ready (if requested) #scriptchat
- I've seen managers want to meet a writer after only reading the first 15 pages. It's THAT crucial to master those pages. #scriptchat
- If you're new to the chat, remember we have transcripts & resources going back to 2009 on our site http://scriptchat.com #scriptchat
- Is there a consistent wow element shared amongst stand out scripts? Not looking for a magic bullet. What do they all do great? #scriptchat
- My first time too - enjoying the chat #scriptchat
- @julztales glad you could make it! #scriptchat
- @julztales Hello! Glad to see all the new faces! #scriptchat
- @ICreateOften Great voice, concept and execution #scriptchat
- Lurk mode over - I have to get back to work! Thanks! #scriptchat
- @wcmartell thanks for popping in! #scriptchat
- @ICreateOften Makes the reader *feel something*. #scriptchat
- No #scriptchat next Sunday. Have a great Memorial Day Wknd!
- @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Thanks so much for being here and for fielding questions. I appreciate the insights! #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters Great chat! Thank you so much for sharing the wisdom!! :) #scriptchat
- Thanks all! Great questions. Good luck! #scriptchat
- #scriptchat yes, thanks all
- enjoyed every tweet #scriptchat
- @HellaStoopsS @roadmapwriters@jeannevb thanks for the great advice #scriptchat
- thanks everyone! happy writing!! :) #scriptchat
- Nice chatting with everyone! Good luck in those contests! #scriptchat
- Hey @roadmapwriters, do you have a link to your character contest handy? #scriptchat
- This is a FREE contest we are running now! https://www.roadmapwriters.com/iconic-characters-screenwriting … #scriptchat
- *blows a kiss* Goodnight everybody. #scriptchat
- .@roadmapwriters @finaldraftinc sponsoring @scriptmag Access Screenplay Contest. Winners win trip to LA http://accesscontest.com #scriptchat
