MovieBytes - Screenwriting Contests & Markets Online

FilmMakers International Screenwriting Awards

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 18:51:46 GMT

Author: Bobby Bell

My entry made it to the semi-finals and I felt the contest administrators did a good job of notifying us in a timely fashion of a couple times when the judges needed a little extra time and when we could expect the announcement. Be aware that qualifiers will be offered a chance to resubmit for an additional fee, and semi-finalists will be offered an additional chance to resubmit (I'm not sure but I seem to recall getting an offer after the quarterfinalist round, as well). I felt OK about this when my first resubmission made it past the quarterfinals, but when it failed to make the finals I felt burned for the extra $59. I suppose I would have felt differently if it had advanced, but I think potential entrants should be aware of this practice.

TLLjournal's Logline Contest

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 16:39:04 GMT

Author: Angelina Dobson

I am happy to say I actually won. I was the grand prize winner and I must say I am still so very excited. I was contacted with the news and the steps needed to take to receive my rewards fairly quickly. This contest if nothing else let me know that I am on the right track with my ideas and not to give up. I would encourage anyone to enter this contest. This small step I am hoping will turn into a great leap for my writing career. Thank you TLL.

American Movie Awards

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:54:43 GMT

Author: James Oswald

I spoke with one of their representatives and she was so helpful while walking me through the submission process - by no means am I computer savvy. It was so great to submit my film directly to their database and avoid slow Withoutabox. I look forward to this festival.

WriteMovies Writing Contest

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 06:43:19 GMT

Author: Dana Cowden

These folks are the pro's. Feedback is detailed and quick. The team is responsive when you have questions. I'd recommend this contest for anyone serious about the craft.

TLLjournal's Logline Contest

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 17:10:12 GMT

Author: Michael Pender

This is incredible. I entered the TLLJournal.com 'threelinesorless' contest on a lark and just received word that my logline for Running Water made 2nd Runner Up. Now my script will receive a year's listing on SellAScript.com(among other perks) and my logline will also be submitted to various industry contacts through TLL. I am now a huge fan of theirs and recommend their contest to anyone wishing to promote their script!! My many thanks to Jared Dunne and all the dedicated folks at TLLJournal.com

American Movie Awards

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:08:14 GMT

Author: Ava Bailey

I submitted my new screenplay this morning, and my best friend also submitted her documentary. Their online submission form was such a breeze and breath of fresh air. We can't wait for the announcements!

London Film Awards

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:46:04 GMT

Author: Cheslav Vinnik

I have a screenplay named "Chumikan" about a man who was born in Georgia (period from 1915 - 1994 - former Russian republic) and after through unforeseen circumstances become a crime. Can I take part in the contest using this story? Cheslav.

Richmond International Film Festival (Screenplays & Films)

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:45:31 GMT

Author: Cheslav Vinnik

New York Screenplay Contest

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:44:29 GMT

Author: Cheslav Vinnik

The Just Effing Entertain Me Screenwriting Competition

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:43:49 GMT

Author: Cheslav Vinnik

Hollywood Screenplay Contest

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:42:53 GMT

Author: Cheslav Vinnik

Table Read My Screenplay Contest

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:42:00 GMT

Author: Cheslav Vinnik

Script Exposure Screenwriting Competition

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:39:55 GMT

Author: Cheslav Vinnik

The Oaxaca FilmFest Screenwriter Competition

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:37:12 GMT

Author: Cheslav Vinnik

The Oaxaca FilmFest Screenwriter Competition

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:36:23 GMT

Author: Cheslav Vinnik

American Movie Awards

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 14:09:57 GMT

Author: Alan L

So glad my colleague informed me about this contest. Amazing prizes and awards ceremony to look forward to.

American Movie Awards

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 18:38:30 GMT

Author: Dana Rodriguez

As soon as I saw Meryl Streep on the homepage, I was in. I really hope my project is selected, so I can attend the awards ceremony in fabulous Las Vegas!

American Movie Awards

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 16:52:09 GMT

Author: Julian Menlan

Just submitted my project. I've heard great things about this competition. Fingers crossed!

Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting.

Fri, 31 May 2013 21:16:03 GMT

Author: Young Victoria

FEEDBACK COMMENT STARS AREN'T CORRECT. IT NNEDS TO BE CHANGED FROM ONE STAR TO FIVE STARS. I SUBMITTED MY SCREENPLAY AND HAD DIFFICULTY. IMMEDIATELY, IT WAS FIXED. A WEEK LATER, I EMAILED THEM AND WITHIN THE SAME DAY, I GOT A RESPONSE. CHANGE THE STAR ON FEEDBACK FROM ONE TO FIVE. A GREAT CONTEST TO ENTER.

Thu, 30 May 2013 21:37:53 GMT

Author: Ron Basso

My nightmare is finally over. It seems that I, like those of you who wrote me, fell through 'cracks' in the e-mail box of A/EX. The fact that these cracks have been open for over a year and are not repaired gives you an idea to the lack of urgency or responsiveness this site of writers-for writers, gives other writers. They acknowledged and apologized, just like they did to others, saying all my correspondence ended up in their SPAM folder. They fact that I used their Contact Page from their web site and their e-mail address from their web site and still ended up in SPAM gives you an idea of how electronically disorganized they are. As a make-up, they offered me script mentoring on 3 scripts. This was an appreciative noble gesture. I was very thankful. Unfortunately, I rec'd one analysis on one script and two on a 2nd script. I never got the third analysis and doubt if I ever will... I think this speaks volumes about the administrative disarray of the people behind this contest. If you enter, beware. You have a 50/50 change of being pleased or sucked into a black hole. Hopefully, this will not be another Script Savvy. I give 0 stars in all categories.

Austin Film Festival Screenplay & Teleplay Competition

Wed, 29 May 2013 07:45:14 GMT

Author: Stephen M. Hunt

I've just had a "last call for scripts" email from AFF that amongst other things says that the Enderby competition is for scripts that can be produced for "..under $5 million.." But I couldn't find anything about that in their rules. Anybody know the score?

A Film Writer Screenplay Contest

Mon, 27 May 2013 02:43:56 GMT

Author: Corneliu Filip

I was very pleased with the constructive, scientific critique I received in the feedback provided by A Film Writer. Their suggestions were solid sets of advice that gave me a clear understanding of where my script stood and what needed to be improved. They are also to be praised for the low cost of their services. I felt the analyst's attempt to go beyond objective critiquing and try to understand what I was aphoristically saying in the script. My hat off!

CineStory Screenwriting Awards

Sat, 25 May 2013 09:01:32 GMT

Author: Deborah Vajda

I recently made the Quarterfinals of the 2013 competition, and already I'm quite impressed. Cl�a sent an email notifiying quarterfinalists a few days before the public announcement, and writers were allowed to send a revised draft for the next rounds. In addition, they offer a free screenwriting Webinar to quarterfinalists. So far, this ranks among the most professional and attentive competitions I've entered.

Los Angeles Film & Script Festival

Fri, 17 May 2013 06:38:08 GMT

Author: raed assar

As a Sci-Fi screen writer, this competition allowed me to compete with other Sci-Fi writers. Although extremely popular and profitable, Sci-Fi screenplays are at a distinct disadvantage when compared to others because Sci-Fi is not for everyone. The Los Angeles Film & Script Festival has the appropriate vision with separate categories that allow for fair competition among scripts within each category. I hope they continue on the same track.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Thu, 16 May 2013 10:25:37 GMT

Author: Hal Harris

I agree fully with Mark. I am entering three scripts this year, and looking forward to the feedback. Good luck to all.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Wed, 15 May 2013 22:20:56 GMT

Author: Mark Stokes

The BlueCat Screenplay Competition has the BEST feedback of any script competition I've encountered. Thorough and very specific notes on what works and what DOESN'T work from two separate anonymous judges. With 3391 entries this year, I don't know how they divided and conquered, but they did it. With all the scams and money pits out there, it's refreshing to know that this is, too. I will DEFINITELY make Bluecat an annual tradition, and my screenplays will be better for it.

Tue, 07 May 2013 07:31:33 GMT

Author: Ron Basso

It's almost sadly funny now. This is the three month anniversary of A/Exposure's Unresponsiveness. I won third place in January's Contest and have rec'd NO script mentoring or my $200 award. I have written them through emails and on their site and have heard nothing from them. I would advise everyone to ignore this contest. I am not alone. Many have written me with similar complaints. One person wrote that it took 6 months of constant e-mail badgering before she heard anything from these people. A/Exposure has NO timeliness in response and NO adherence to any semblance of professional standards. Ignore the 4 Stars from this site. This is a 1/2 star contest, if that.

FOX-NYTVF Comedy Script Contest

Sat, 04 May 2013 18:18:05 GMT

Author: Andrew Geczy

I was so excited for the contest, as I just came up with a great pilot idea, but I just read it only accepts submissions from the continental US, and I live in Canada. Where's the love? A lot of great talent has come from Canada.

Fifty-Fifty Unlimited

Thu, 02 May 2013 12:59:06 GMT

Author: Tony Scott

It is now over one month since they said the contest results would be published (March 31), with no updates on their website, no notifications, and no responses to posts on their blog asking what has happened or to direct email inquiries.

Beverly Hill Screenplay Contest

Thu, 02 May 2013 12:03:24 GMT

Author: Ana Lozano

Just submitted my screenplay! The awards they offer are awesome. It would be great to win a competition in my hometown.

StoryPros Awards Contest

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:28:14 GMT

Author: StoryPros

Pras, you can enter in as many genres as you like, but yes, this contest is for scripts of one genre or another. Virtually all scripts have one genre that predominates -- let that be your guide!

Austin Film Festival Screenplay & Teleplay Competition

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 11:25:48 GMT

Author: Justin Sloan

I love this contest because it is associated with an amazing film festival. Whether you place or not, go. But if you place as a second rounder (top 10%), you get a discount, and of course semis/finalists get better deals. You also get feedback as a second rounder and above, and the feedback is very helpful. What I liked most was the personalized note on my letter from the contest coordinator. I hear he does this for many scripts, so I'm not special, but I liked it.

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 11:20:32 GMT

Author: Justin Sloan

Great contest, and my favorite part is that you get to resubmit if you make it to the finals. I only made it to the semi-finals last year, but this year hoping that will change!

Screenplay Search Screenwriting Competition

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 11:11:17 GMT

Author: Justin Sloan

Happy to see I made it to the Finals! But it would be nice to receive something for it, at least an email. A friend emailed me and said 'congrats,' that's how I found out.

The-GreenLight.com Annual Script Contest

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:48:39 GMT

Author: Justin Sloan

Can I delete my last comment? Turns out there wa an email (junk box) problem, and the contest runner fixed it and more than made it up to me. GREAT CONTEST!

StoryPros Awards Contest

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 22:50:33 GMT

Author: Pras Biswas

Two genres or more? Today scripts usually span 2 or more genres. What if a script is equally poised between 2 or more genres? How do I enter? This contest seems Single Genre only!

Fade In Awards

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 14:32:47 GMT

Author: Brian Smith

Yes. Congrats, Johnny? Though they only list names and not script titles. Pretty hard to promote our scripts if no titles are cited.

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 21:42:19 GMT

Author: Ron Basso

It is a shame, Hal. In two weeks I'm looking at three months with NO communication from this contest. In two weeks, they'll release the winners of April's Contest. What do you do when a contest acts this unprofessional? I know I am not an isolated incident because other TOP 3 winners and people awaiting feedback have contacted me with the same problems. I would encourage writers to have second, third and fourth thoughts about entering.

Screenplay Festival

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:10:26 GMT

Author: Thomas Sturm

I entered a script in the 2004 contest and was never informed about anything. Years later, I discovered randomly on the Internet that my script "Human" was listed as a finalist in the competition, in a category that I did not enter it into, though I received no notice of this or subsequent interest from the industry.

WriteMovies Writing Contest

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 12:46:06 GMT

Author: Thomas Sturm

The WriteMovies people were very helpful and encouraging, and went out of their way to see that I received useful feedback. This is valuable to me, as I've only ever had one or two other instances of real script coverage in the past.

Fade In Awards

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:31:51 GMT

Author: Johnny Russell

Have the 2013 finalists been posted? Anybody?

The-GreenLight.com Annual Script Contest

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:39:45 GMT

Author: Justin Sloan

As an update, I still have not received my notes from winning 3rd place in the annual contest. It has been over 4 months and I am getting a bit concerned.

Fresh Voices Original Screenplay Competition

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:38:48 GMT

Author: Justin Sloan

The feedback can be hit or miss. I submitted and received one feedback with praise in certain areas, then resubmitted the same script with some improvements in other areas, and a different reader hit me for the same points the first had praised me on. A contest should do its best to aviod such subjectivity, in my opinion.

TLLjournal's Logline Contest

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:59:09 GMT

Author: Wendy Henson

Jared and his staff do a great job and provide a unique marketing opportunity for aspiring screenwriters. I am truly pleased.

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 13:54:01 GMT

Author: Gwyneth Kozbial

PAGE coverage is comprehensive, deep-digging, superbly professional, with great communication on all levels. A fantastic value.

Austin Film Festival Screenplay & Teleplay Competition

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 13:50:11 GMT

Author: Gwyneth Kozbial

A class act.

Fresh Voices Original Screenplay Competition

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 13:48:10 GMT

Author: Gwyneth Kozbial

A well-run contest with good communication. The feedback came back in good time and was worth the price of entry.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 13:43:47 GMT

Author: Gwyneth Kozbial

I entered two scripts in this contest (one a first draft entered solely for the feedback), and all four readers offered top-notch very constructive criticism. This contest has a magnificent spirit of not just promoting its winners but also helping all entrants improve their craft. The quick return of feedback is particularly admirable.

TLLjournal's Logline Contest

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:32:45 GMT

Author: James Jackson

Good folks, very well run and professional.

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 09:42:28 GMT

Author: Hal Harris

Ron, that is a shame, I hate to hear it. You don?t suppose those star ratings are being ?padded? a bit? This competition has a hundred hits -- even a much larger contest like PAGE has only a few more than that.

Fresh Voices Original Screenplay Competition

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:09:34 GMT

Author: moutaz jad

As a first place winner in the Sci-fi/Fantasy category, I can honestly say that Fresh Voices has been nothing but a positive experience for me as a writer. The staff is very accessible and you feel that they truly care about you as a writer. I also highly recommend their services. I've used the Fresh Voices script consultation twice and it's been extremely helpful...very indepth and constructive. Again, what separates Fresh Voices from all other sites, is that they care.

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:12:07 GMT

Author: Ron Basso

Well, two months have gone by and no emails, no response, no Feedback, no nothing. So much for the script mentoring. I think these evaluation scores need to be revisited and re-totaled. I entered this because it rec'd 4 and 3 1/2 stars from writers. One blogger on this site wrote that it took 5 months for feedback and to get his money. 5 months? And this contest gets 4 stars? Seriously, who's fooling who? Don't waste your time entering, it's a deep dark hole.

Scriptapalooza Screenwriting Competition

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 23:10:59 GMT

Author: Nick Carr

Of every contest I've entered, this is easily the worst experience I've had, and the first time I've wondered whether I'd just been ripped off. Real simple: I enter last year, get to the last screen, it says SUBMIT, I click. "Thank you for entering. Your script has been received!" Er, only one issue: I didn't upload a script! On returning to the previous page, I saw an Upload File box I hadn't noticed before - but it was too late. I'd already been charged, and couldn't go through the process again. Oh well, I'm sure the Scriptapalooza folks will be helpful. I email with an attachment. No reply. I email again, asking for confirmation. I email a third time, asking just to let me know they've received my emails. Nothing. There's a phone number on the site. Voicemail. Box full. Can't leave a message. I sent these four or five emails over the course of a month or two and never, ever, ever heard back. That sucks. Screw these guys.

Contest of Contest Winners

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 14:44:22 GMT

Author: Matt Wayne

Tony, What did you actually win? I mean, did you get to turn your script into a movie? Winning is great - I won a couple of contests too, except the scripts are still sitting on a hard drive 13 years later. What's the solution?

Contest of Contest Winners

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 13:25:34 GMT

Author: Matt Wayne

A Film Writer Screenplay Contest

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 18:02:22 GMT

Author: Serita Stevens

great comments. Very helpful

A Film Writer Screenplay Contest

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 08:55:25 GMT

Author: Vivian Lermond

I was very pleased with the two pages of notes I received and felt the comments were spot on!

Beverly Hill Screenplay Contest

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 16:43:31 GMT

Author: Janet Marletto

This is my first attempt at screenwriting. I've submitted to several competitions, but I have to say I'm most excited about this one. I hope to secure amazing networking opportunities, and the screenwriting software would be a sweet extra perk. :)

The Just Effing Entertain Me Screenwriting Competition

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 10:47:07 GMT

Author: Rebekah Reaves

The Just Effing Entertain Me Competition offers a great opportunity for writers in all genres. The contest announces its winners on time and is run in a very professional manner. Julie is incredibly encouraging and answers questions promptly and with enthusiasm. Her blog, too, is both helpful and entertaining for the aspiring writer.

Contest of Contest Winners

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 20:08:27 GMT

Author: Tony Scott

Unfortunately, many contests have a large number of entries, but with questionable quality. I wanted to see how I would stack up against some of the best, and I'm glad I did. I feel fortunate to have won this contest, which clearly has a high caliber of entrants -- and I feel honored to have been even able to be included among them. Of course judging screenplays is subjective, and I'm sure that there were other very worthy entrants who might just as easily have won. But even if I had not won, I believe the two pages of coverage and analysis provided by the judges was worth the entry fee. Howard and his team have been quite good about keeping us informed along the way, and I can tell that they are sincere in their efforts to help writers. If you want to see how your script really stacks up, I can't recommend the Contest of Contest Winners competition more highly.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:37:39 GMT

Author: Patricia Berwick

I was delighted with the comments made by BlueCat about my screenplay. I am new to such competitions and so found it particularly rewarding. The comments were written in a positive manner but showed what needed to be done to upgrade my script and to tighten written components and events. Thank you BlueCat for taking the time to write such a full review.

Screenplay Festival

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 12:55:48 GMT

Author: John ORiley

Screenplay Festival is a fantastic competition. It is professional and implemented very well. All entrants are notified every step of the way. All winners, even honorable mention winners are helped for an entire year with leads which is very helpful and instrumental in selling your work! I appreciate all their efforts in helping me to succeed!

Screenplay Festival

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:31:43 GMT

Author: quentin batten

I was beyond surprised to have been an 'Honorable Mention' 2012 winner. Those at SF were thorough at communicating with entrants regarding the status of the contest and posting the results in a timely manner. I really look for contests that suggest they make an effort to connect you with industry professionals/market your success and I believe they are committed to do just that. Looking forward to see where it go's from here thanks to Screenplay Festival's recognition. But to all the writers... really polish up your script before submitting. Have a second pair over eyes give it a read through. It's hard to swallow finding errors afterwards.

Screenplay Festival

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 04:08:26 GMT

Author: christopher sorensen

Just to let you all know I am excited to say I am a grand prize winner in the Screenplay Festival for 2012. It has been a long six months but as soon as the day arrived to see the winners, I was so flabbergasted to see my name under the heading thriller/horror. Now with the win I also have got an honorable mention in the same category, so a two bird with one stone effect. The screenplay festival has been an excellent outlet for my scripts even in the past years. It is a great learning experience for mistakes to be corrected, and come up with an ultimate script to wow the judges this year. So for those who write, do not stop, make mistakes, learn from them, and have fun. I forgot to mention, the script that won in my category is called 'Necromancer' So look for it on the big screen in the next few years. Keep writing, and congratulations to all the winners of the Screenplay Festival Contest.

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 07:45:02 GMT

Author: Ron Basso

Still no communication or money after 6 weeks. In two more weeks, the March winners will be announced. It is disappointing that a Contest will act like this. Is this professional? Put me down for one star in all categories.

Contest of Contest Winners

Sat, 16 Mar 2013 06:04:37 GMT

Author: Corneliu Filip

As a Contest of Contest Winners finalist (Top Ten Scripts) with the script Counterpart, one may think I'm slightly biased and maybe I am. However I must say I am completely satisfied with this contest. They are very professional and courteous people. Whenever I had a question about my entry, Howard Allen answered it immediately. Don't mean to be arrogant, but I think it's great that there is a contest which only accepts entries from winners of other contests. Their Evaluations - actually two serious coverages - of my script provided both structural, spot-on analysis and encouragement. I'd always recommend this screenwriting competition to anyone who really cares about their work.

WriteMovies Writing Contest

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 15:56:48 GMT

Author: Vivian Lermond

I was very pleased to be a finalist in WMC 30. I did receive a two line email, telling me I finished 7th.

Screenplay Search Screenwriting Competition

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 09:16:04 GMT

Author: Hal Harris

Agree, a little more communication would go a long way. Just found out today that both my scripts were semi-finalists. Cheers to all!

Contest of Contest Winners

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 12:46:43 GMT

Author: Kerry Parsons

I cannot express enough what a valuable experience entering my short "Activity Bus #61" into this competition was. I felt in rarified company with the likes of Brent Hartinger and Tony Scott. I placed as a Finalist (sure, I would have loved to placed as the Winner), but not only am I proud of that placement but also the proceeds of it are two outstanding coverages, which are worth their weight in gold. Thanks, Doc and judges, for a great contest, one I look forward to entering again next year.

Screamfest Horror Film Festival and Screenplay Competition

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 15:53:35 GMT

Author: Jeremy Christensen

I won Best Screenplay in the Screamfest 2012 Screenplay Competition and it has provided me with some great exposure in the industry. Since winning I have received interest from agents, managers and I have even developed and written a horror spec with a creative executive who read my script because I had won. The Screamfest mixers have also been a great way to meet motivated, like minded film makers and has given me other opportunities to get involved with the horror film community. I look forward to many more years of Screamfests! I highly recommend getting involved.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 13:18:00 GMT

Author: Bradd Hopkins

My script (Archive # 5489) was reviewed by Reader # 7040. In my estimation, he/she did a Sterling job. It was clear through his comments that not only did he read the script, but he read it thoughtfully, and with an understanding of the problems inherent in this genre (drama/history/period). His suggestions for improvement were spot-on, and will send me through the work for yet another revision. But, it's clear Reader 7040 sees what I'm trying to do with it. His input, without qualification, will make it a better script. Please convey my sincere thanks and heartfelt gratitude to Reader 7040 for his attention to the details of the work, and his suggestions for improvement. Good is never good enough; any produced script must be great if it is to find its way to the silver screen. The only way 7040 could have been a greater help would be if he were standing over my shoulder as I implement his suggestions.

Storyboard TV - Longform TV Script Competition

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 09:48:33 GMT

Author: Michael Wright

I had a GREAT experience with Storyboard TV!!! Rachel Levy was very helpful and accessible. Before the finals even happened, I was contacted by Electus Entertainment (part of the industry panel that judged the semi-finals) who wanted more info on my script. I had an hour-long meeting with their development manager and we are still in talks! I eventually won the competition and received the prize money shortly after! A great overall experience!!

Hollywood Screenplay Contest

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 22:28:29 GMT

Author: Thomas Abrahamson

Hollywood Screenplay Contest offers by far the best feedback I've encountered.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 21:33:41 GMT

Author: Michael Buchanan

I cannot say enough good things about Blue Cat's screenplay competition. While my script did not make the cut, I can say that I am quite encouraged by its potential based on the feedback I received. My script is an intricate, sci-fi thriller with an overlapping a and b story. It's a challenging concept in the vein of Promethias, but with gods and technology shaking things up. Like all of us, I thought to myself, 'this is finally it! it's ready!' Ehh, wrong! What I hadn't realized is that despite strong dialogue, imagery, concept, etc....there were subtle things I dubb as minefields that, unfortunately, misled the reader....which is something I clearly did not recognize. Mind you, the story was tabbed a finalist in a respected competition, which I will not name, before I submitted to Blue Cat. That was an eye opener for sure. They do a great job a striking a balance between unvarnished and direct feedback, with just enough motivation to keep up your spirits. Try them out yourself and you will see what I mean.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 18:45:57 GMT

Author: Johnny Russell

The BlueCat screenplay contest is uniquely geared to making the writer's work better. It offers early coverage. The coverage is returned for a re-write then can be re-entered. As long as the submission deadline is not passed, it can be covered a second time returned, re-written and re-entered. Most contests charge extra for coverage while BlueCat includes it at no extra charge as part of the normal entry fee. This single factor is what I would attribute to my success in getting to the quarterfinals. BlueCat offered an evaluation, a workshop and a contest. It was a great experience.

UCLA Extension Screenplay Competition

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 15:55:20 GMT

Author: Tamara Gross

Some clarity that this is ONLY for UCLA students/alumni would save people time & aggravation.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 12:15:31 GMT

Author: Don Lovell

I entered a western called BUFFALO SALT COMPANY about the 1867 post civil war time period in northwest Oklahoma territory, southwest Kansas and up to the Niobrara River valley & Pine Belt of Nebraska. It featured assertive and capable white and native women and native Americans from plains tribes, whiskey filled and greed driven villians, a hand full of smart and honest people trying to be decent about how they live with their native neighbors, the bungling US Army and Bureau of Indian affairs and displaced renegade indians as well as their personal battles with the story villians. It was tough to get the format to the 125 page limit and in my analysis, the negative comment was having to do with much of what had to be cut to make the 125 page cap. I started a rewrite, proquel with prequel flashback and plot connections, this time totally written to make a 100 page cap. Trying to let the characters do a better job of describing each other. Tougher than it sounds to be able to adequately do character descriptions to really bring these outlandish characters to life. For me this year, the cost was restrictive. Hard times for me and I had to scrape together the initial entry fee and was unable to afford to attend the seminar in Kansas City, which funny enough occurred the week after the submittal deadline date. Not much help to me at that point. The experience and comments were good, could have been better but I learned much about what I am capable of.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 11:29:43 GMT

Author: art johnson

The two analysis alone was well worth the money. I entered this contest solely for someone to fully read my screenplay from beginning to end and give me a real critique, rather than try and win the contest. I know my script is very unique, but the critism I get is from people that don't fully read the script and just skim through it. I get good reviews, but when I ask people what they liked, I can tell they didn't read the whole script. Long story short. Thanky you, BlueCat. The changes that you suggested, I've made. They filled in the missing pieces to the puzzle that was bothering me and made my script broader and so much better. I still would'nt mind winning the contest, don't get me wrong. lol Thank you and God bless.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 14:07:14 GMT

Author: dirk winkler

My BlueCat experience was really an emotional journey. The analyses I got by the BlueCat readers were very helpful and without holding back. And I truly appreciate that, it was a test if I would be able to get back up after the critique. And I did, started a new rewrite with new enthusiams. This was accompanied by very kind and motivating words by the readers who believed in my script. Overall it was a great experience I learned a lot in. Thanks to everyone!

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 09:53:54 GMT

Author: Jim Reynolds

Blue Cat seems to have the best competition format. I don't know if any others even give analyses. And two really helps to triangulate problem areas in the script. The analyses came back quickly too and they were in depth. I've since completed a major re-write and incorporated almost all of the advice, so they were quality. You get a contest plus two script analyses from two separate readers. Definitely money well spent.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 07:54:58 GMT

Author: Jeffrey Freeman

The analysis was complete, candid, and very helpful. I've paid hundreds of dollars and not received the practical advice on where the script succeeded and where and why it failed. I will enter another script to this contest. It's money well spent.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 03:16:10 GMT

Author: paul mendelson

I couldn't have been more impressed by the feedback I received. It was courteous, informed, constructive and well-reasoned. I am a UK writer and entered four screeplays, two of which reached the quarter-finals (the top ten per cent) and one of which, on resubmission after first analysis, the reader said was 'good to go' and should be greenlit. (From his/her lips to God's ears!) All four scripts are now much improved by the feedback and are 'out there'. I would particularly like to thank reader 7027 for his or her support and enthusiasm. And to Gordy Hoffman and his BlueCat team for offering this invaluable service to writers. Bravo.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 21:44:32 GMT

Author: D.G. Stone

Very nicely run and good value. My thanks to Reader 6071 who offered a well-considered and from-the-heart critique of strengths and weaknesses, no holds barred.

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 12:50:14 GMT

Author: Ron Basso

Hal described this contest as a black hole...as of today, I sadly agree. I had to contact them last month to say I placed third in January's contest and ask what's next. I rec'd a reply to send in the latest rewrite. Nothing more. That was a month ago. Their # on this site is disconnected. Emails addressed to Annette or Tess are not acknowledged. I am happy for Daniel for winning January and having everything to him in 10 days...as for me, this contest reminds me of another good contest, Script Savvy, going to pot.

Bare Bones Film Festival

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 10:37:51 GMT

Author: Stephen M. Hunt

Anyone ever told you to "Go google yourself?" I did just that yesterday and was delighted to find an item listing me as a Bare Bones Film Festival quarter-finalist! I thought they'd have notified me and they probably thought I'd keep tabs on their website. Getting placed is always a thrill so many thanks to the fine folks at Bare Bones.

Screenplay Search Screenwriting Competition

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 17:40:05 GMT

Author: Charles Yozwiak

Made it as semi-finalist this year, but had to go to the website to find this out. Communication with entrants leaves something to be desired.

Beverly Hill Screenplay Contest

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 11:22:03 GMT

Author: Dan Kramer

After reading the excitement about this contest, I submitted my 3 scripts. Here's to everyone success. -DANK

Beverly Hill Screenplay Contest

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 11:18:23 GMT

Author: Jade Fales

Finally a screenplay contest worth submitting to!

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 23:04:45 GMT

Author: steven kopca

I received great feedback from both of my readers from Bluecat and I was very excited about the comments they made. Although a rewrite was needed, I did not finish my next draft for the final deadline. I was very upset with myself for not taking advantage of that. But I made the Quarterfinals without a rewrite and I am very grateful to the readers and to this contest and anyone who had anything to do with getting my screenplay through to this round. I?m very glad I entered the Bluecat Screenplay Contest! Thank you Bluecat! Thank you Readers! Thank you to the Wonderful Person/s who got me this far! Congratulations to the rest of the Quarterfinalist! Good luck to everyone on March 1st!

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 07:19:31 GMT

Author: Amy Bailey

I was such a rookie when I entered The Page Awards last year, but was immediately impressed with how thorough their feedback was. And when I had trouble fully comprehending their scorecard, Jennifer Berg was wonderful and patient in explaining it to me. But what was REALLY COOL was when I was pitching the script and I mentioned that I made the quarter finals of The Page awards, the producer's eyes instantly lit up. He not only asked to read my screenplay, he commented that I should have mentioned that first. This is how well respected and prestigious this contest is.

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 06:58:06 GMT

Author: Amy Bailey

I'm a bit of a feedback junkie, and Blue Cat thoroughly has me hooked. Getting two readers is wonderful by itself, but in each there was this brilliant gleam of a plot point change that helped me significantly improve my script. And this contest is just so dog gone well run!

Scriptapalooza Screenwriting Competition

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 06:49:44 GMT

Author: Amy Bailey

A slight retraction. Although the reader did make ignorant inaccurate comments about the socio-economic status and buying abilities of Southerners who live in trailer parks - they merely said bizarre and bitter things about my protagonist who happened to be wealthy and Jewish.

Scriptapalooza Screenwriting Competition

Sat, 23 Feb 2013 08:43:34 GMT

Author: Amy Bailey

When I received my feedback from this contest I thought, 'If this judge is a women then she should diet and exercise to improve her mental clarity. If a man he needs to seek comfort in a caffeinated beverage and cut back on his recreational drug use.' To be fair, if one hadn't read the script it looked like a decently done report. Sadly, the reader's comments were the equivalent of saying to the writer of a "Lassie Come Home" screenplay: "What this script really needs is a dog." It was surreal. But I paid my buck, I wanted my input. So I printed it out - and read it over several times trying to find something usable. This wasn't easy because several comments stung as the Scriptapalooza Judge had (unknowingly I'm sure) said things that were hurtful to Jews and Southerners. But I shrugged it off, tossed it in the trash and thought nothing of it. Until months later when I received a Moviebytes email, clicked on this contest and saw there were several other victims. "Oh no!" I thought. "There is a naughty bad judge out there trying to secretly sabotage this once prestigious contest. I must email them and warn them. This was a mistake as I realized I was playing the part of "Sum pius Aeneas" trying to chat it up with Queen Dido in the underworld. You see screenplay contest royalty, suicidal and otherwise, can not take seriously the protestations of a peasant screenwriter. Then I suddenly realized that I had unknowingly done something cruel to them. I had cruelly expected them to be as open and as diplomatic as the brilliant Jennifer Berg from The Page, who although I had done well in their contest, I needed her, and she complied to help my meager mind comprehend and get the most out of their score card. And how dare I compare this contest with the beautifully run Greenlight, Blue Cat, Fresh Voices, Creative World Awards and others who have patiently and respectably replied to my low tech questions via email with witty answers such as, "Yes Amy, the mystifying "upload box" on our website has indeed magically sent us your script. We look forward to reading it," But even in my naivety, there was no excuse for me to expect from them the elegant and kindly emails like the ones I received from Elizabeth English of Moondance. Which after reading them, I would smile all day knowing there were much better people than me in the world. And I should shoot my foot for even casually thinking of them in the same vein as Script Vamp whose negative but carefully critical and wonderfully perseptive input not only helped me edit my first script into a multi contest winner - they changed forever the way I begin and write screenplays. Yesterday, after a most unfruitful email rally with this contest, I nearly wept in remorse. I thought of grabbing and killing a couple of unsuspecting chickens as a sin offering, but thought better of it. Instead, I vowed that from now on I would rigorously read the input on Moviebytes, and only inflict the burden of judging my scripts onto contest that had shoulders like the afore mentioned giants.

Beverly Hill Screenplay Contest

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 16:38:04 GMT

Author: Chloe Ames

Just submitted my screenplay! So excited to be apart of this contest! Here's to great success! - CA

Beverly Hill Screenplay Contest

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 15:04:20 GMT

Author: Randall Montecito

So far, I have had an excellent experience with this competition. I emailed a long list of questions, because I am a rather cautious person when entering these contests. I received a very thorough response, and even a discount on my submission. I look forward to the results. Just wish the notification date wasn't so far away. ;)

Beverly Hill Screenplay Contest

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:46:27 GMT

Author: John Preston

This past year I have submitted to several screenplay contests and I am most anxious for the Beverly Hills Contest. With all the positive feedback and comments I know I am submitting to a legit contest. Looking forward to the awards! JOHN P.

Beverly Hill Screenplay Contest

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:38:21 GMT

Author: Lois Hansen

I am so excited about this contest! I already submitted my two short films! The awards for this are going to be awesome!

Beverly Hill Screenplay Contest

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 18:40:25 GMT

Author: Dana Rodriguez

Most screenwriting competitions give writers a chance to win prizes and money. While that's great, what I find most important is the exposure to industry personnel who can eventually turn my script into a film. With that said, I entered two scripts. Fingers crossed. :)

Beverly Hill Screenplay Contest

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:03:53 GMT

Author: Julian Menlan

I've heard great things about this contest from TV Writers Vault. The opportunities seem endless. Wish me luck!

Screamfest Horror Film Festival and Screenplay Competition

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 18:49:45 GMT

Author: Jeff Limberg

Good people and reputable contest. Very comparable to ink tip which was the first contest I did. Didn't win but the again you can't win them all. Hoping I can take home the gold on this one!