Coverage report

Definition

A coverage report is a detailed analysis and evaluation of a screenplay that highlights its strengths and weaknesses, often used by producers, agents, and development executives to assess the viability of a script. This report not only summarizes the plot but also includes feedback on character development, pacing, dialogue, and overall marketability, making it an essential tool in the screenplay development process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coverage reports are typically structured with sections like a summary, analysis of characters, themes, and potential audience appeal.
2. They often include a rating system to give a quick overview of the script’s quality and marketability.
3. Coverage reports can help identify potential issues in a screenplay that may need addressing before production can commence.
4. Many studios require coverage reports as part of their submission process to filter through the numerous scripts they receive.
5. A well-crafted coverage report can be crucial for writers seeking representation or for those looking to sell their scripts.

Review Questions

• How do coverage reports assist producers and development executives in making decisions about screenplays?
  • Coverage reports provide a comprehensive overview of a screenplay's strengths and weaknesses, allowing producers and development executives to make informed decisions about whether to pursue a project. By summarizing key elements like plot, character development, and dialogue, these reports save time and help identify scripts that may resonate with audiences or fit within market trends. They serve as an essential tool in determining the viability of a script before investing further resources into its development.
• Evaluate the role of script readers in the creation of coverage reports and how their insights can impact screenplay development.
  • Script readers play a critical role in the creation of coverage reports by providing objective evaluations based on their understanding of industry standards and audience expectations. Their insights can highlight both the potential strengths and weaknesses of a screenplay, guiding writers and producers in making necessary revisions. Effective feedback from script readers can lead to improved story structure, character arcs, and overall marketability, significantly impacting the screenplay’s success in the competitive film industry.
• Synthesize how coverage reports integrate with other elements of screenplay development, such as loglines and script notes, to enhance the writing process.
  • Coverage reports work hand-in-hand with other elements of screenplay development, like loglines and script notes, to create a comprehensive writing process. A strong logline sets the foundation for the screenplay by succinctly conveying its core premise, while coverage reports evaluate how well the script fulfills that premise through detailed analysis. Additionally, script notes provide specific feedback for improvement based on the insights gleaned from coverage reports. Together, these components foster an environment where writers can refine their work, ensuring it meets industry standards while also appealing to potential buyers or audiences.

Related terms

logline: A brief summary of a screenplay that conveys the main conflict and hook, typically one or two sentences long.

script notes: Comments and suggestions provided by readers or industry professionals aimed at improving a screenplay’s structure, character arcs, or dialogue.

script reader:

An individual who reads screenplays and provides evaluations and feedback through coverage reports or script notes.