13.3 Submitting Your Screenplay to Agents and Producers
3 min read•august 6, 2024
Submitting your screenplay to agents and producers is a crucial step in getting your work noticed. This process requires careful preparation of your submission package, including a compelling , synopsis, and properly formatted screenplay.
Targeting the right industry professionals is key. Research literary agents and production companies that align with your screenplay's genre. Consider entering reputable competitions to gain exposure. Don't forget to protect your intellectual property and navigate legal considerations carefully.
Preparing Your Submission Package
Crafting a Compelling Query Letter
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- Write a concise one-page letter introducing yourself and your screenplay
- Include a , a brief synopsis, and any relevant writing credentials or awards
- Demonstrate your understanding of the agent or producer's interests and explain why your script is a good fit
- Close with a polite request for them to read your screenplay
Developing a Strong Synopsis and Treatment
- Create a one to two-page synopsis that summarizes your story's key plot points, characters, and themes
- Ensure the synopsis captures the tone, genre, and unique elements of your screenplay
- Develop a treatment, a longer document (5-10 pages) that outlines the story in more detail, including character arcs and major scenes
- Use the treatment to showcase your writing style and the emotional journey of your characters
Adhering to Professional Screenplay Formatting
- Follow industry-standard formatting guidelines for font (Courier), font size (12 point), and margins (1 inch)
- Use proper scene headings, character names, dialogue, and parentheticals
- Ensure your screenplay is free of typos, grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies
- Consider using screenwriting software (Final Draft, Movie Magic Screenwriter) to ensure proper formatting
Understanding Submission Guidelines
- Research the specific for each agent, , or competition
- Follow instructions regarding preferred submission methods (email, online forms, hard copies)
- Include any additional materials requested, such as a bio, resume, or release forms
- Adhere to any page count or file format requirements (PDF, Word document)
Targeting Industry Professionals
Researching Literary Agents
- Identify agents who represent writers in your screenplay's genre or style
- Consult industry directories (Hollywood Creative Directory, IMDbPro) and agency websites to find suitable agents
- Look for agents with a track record of selling scripts similar to yours
- Prioritize agents who accept unsolicited submissions or attend festivals and conferences
Approaching Production Companies
- Research production companies that have produced films or TV shows in your screenplay's genre
- Identify key decision-makers within these companies, such as development executives or producers
- Tailor your submission package to demonstrate how your screenplay aligns with the company's production slate
- Consider targeting smaller, independent production companies that may be more open to new writers
Entering Screenplay Competitions
- Submit your screenplay to reputable competitions (Nicholl Fellowship, Austin Film Festival, PAGE Awards) to gain exposure and recognition
- Use competition deadlines as motivation to polish your screenplay and submission package
- Leverage any awards or high placements to attract the attention of agents and producers
- Attend festivals and events associated with competitions to network with industry professionals
Legal Considerations
Protecting Your Intellectual Property
- Register your screenplay with the U.S. Copyright Office to establish a public record of your ownership
- Keep detailed records of when you completed your screenplay and any correspondence with industry professionals
- Consider registering your screenplay with the (WGA) for additional protection and to demonstrate professional credibility
Obtaining Necessary Release Forms
- Secure signed release forms from any individuals whose names, likenesses, or personal stories are included in your screenplay
- Obtain permission to use any copyrighted materials, such as song lyrics or film clips, referenced in your script
- Keep release forms and permissions organized and readily available to present to potential buyers
Navigating Confidentiality Agreements
- Be cautious about signing any confidentiality agreements or non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) without legal counsel
- Understand the terms of any agreements you sign, particularly regarding ownership and compensation
- Protect your own ideas by requesting that industry professionals sign a non-disclosure agreement before sharing your screenplay
- Consult with an entertainment attorney to review any legal documents and advise you on protecting your rights as a writer
Key Terms to Review (16)
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) is a professional honorary organization dedicated to the advancement of the film industry, most famous for awarding the Oscars. Established in 1927, its influence extends to various aspects of filmmaking, including recognition and support for screenwriters, which impacts how screenplays are submitted and evaluated by agents and producers.
Coverage: Coverage refers to a detailed analysis of a screenplay that includes a summary, character breakdown, and critique of its strengths and weaknesses. It serves as a vital tool for writers to gain insights into how their scripts are perceived, as well as helping agents and producers evaluate scripts before deciding to represent or produce them. This feedback is essential for improving a script and making it market-ready, while also acting as a filter for decision-makers in the industry.
Industry contacts: Industry contacts refer to the connections and relationships that screenwriters and other professionals have within the film and television industry. These contacts can include agents, producers, directors, and fellow writers, and play a vital role in helping to get a screenplay noticed and produced. Building and maintaining these relationships can lead to opportunities for collaboration, feedback, and ultimately, getting a screenplay submitted to key players in the industry.
Literary agent: A literary agent is a professional who represents writers and their written works to publishers, helping them navigate the complexities of the publishing industry. They act as intermediaries, negotiating contracts and advocating for the best interests of the writer. A good agent not only helps in selling a screenplay but also offers guidance in career development, making them crucial partners for screenwriters looking to break into the industry.
Logline: A logline is a brief summary of a screenplay, usually one or two sentences long, that captures the main plot, character, and conflict. It serves as a critical tool in screenwriting by distilling the essence of the story, making it easier to convey the idea to others and helping to ensure clarity in the writing process.
Networking event: A networking event is a gathering of individuals aimed at fostering professional relationships, sharing industry knowledge, and providing opportunities for collaboration. These events often include informal discussions, panel sessions, and structured activities that facilitate connections among screenwriters, producers, agents, and other industry professionals, making them essential for career advancement in the entertainment sector.
Pitch: A pitch is a brief, persuasive presentation of a screenplay idea meant to grab the attention of producers, agents, or potential collaborators. It's not just about summarizing the story but also conveying the tone, style, and emotional core that makes the project unique. A successful pitch helps distinguish a writer's work in a competitive industry and can set the stage for further discussions or opportunities.
Pitch fest: A pitch fest is an event where screenwriters present their screenplay ideas to agents, producers, and industry professionals in a short amount of time. These events are designed to help writers network and gain exposure for their work, often featuring multiple sessions where participants can pitch their scripts to various buyers. Pitch fests can be competitive and are crucial in the process of getting a screenplay noticed by key industry players.
Production Company: A production company is a business entity that is responsible for the development, production, and distribution of films, television shows, and other media content. They play a crucial role in bringing scripts to life by securing funding, hiring talent, and overseeing the creative process from pre-production through post-production.
Query letter: A query letter is a brief, formal letter sent to agents or producers to introduce a screenplay, generating interest and requesting representation or a read. It serves as the first impression for your work, highlighting essential elements like the logline, genre, and unique selling points. Crafting an effective query letter is crucial, as it sets the stage for how your screenplay will be perceived.
Representation Agreement: A representation agreement is a formal contract between a screenwriter and a literary agent or manager, outlining the terms under which the agent or manager will represent the writer's work. This agreement typically covers the scope of representation, commission fees, duration, and other key responsibilities and rights of both parties. Having a solid representation agreement is crucial as it ensures that the writer's interests are protected while enabling agents to effectively market and sell their scripts to producers and studios.
Rights acquisition: Rights acquisition refers to the process of obtaining the legal rights to use, adapt, or produce a piece of intellectual property, such as a screenplay. This can involve purchasing or licensing the rights from the original creator or rights holder, ensuring that any adaptations or productions are legally permissible. Understanding rights acquisition is crucial for screenwriters who want to effectively submit their work to agents and producers while protecting their creative interests.
Script submission: Script submission refers to the process of sending a screenplay to agents, producers, or production companies in hopes of getting it read and possibly produced. This crucial step involves not only the actual script but also the accompanying materials such as query letters, loglines, and synopses that help to pitch the project effectively. Understanding how to navigate this process can significantly impact a writer's chances of breaking into the industry.
Spec script: A spec script is a screenplay written without being commissioned, usually created to showcase a writer's talent and style. This type of script is often used by writers to attract attention from agents or producers, as it reflects their unique voice and creative vision without any external constraints. Spec scripts are an essential tool for screenwriters looking to break into the industry or shift their career direction.
Submission guidelines: Submission guidelines are a set of specific instructions provided by agents, producers, or contests regarding how to submit a screenplay for consideration. These guidelines can include details on formatting, length, required materials, and preferred submission methods. Following these guidelines is crucial as they can determine whether your screenplay gets read or rejected before it even reaches the decision-makers.
Writers Guild of America: The Writers Guild of America (WGA) is a labor union representing writers in the film, television, and digital media industries. It plays a crucial role in advocating for writers' rights, negotiating contracts, and ensuring fair compensation, making it an essential organization in the screenwriting landscape.