If you’re an aspiring screenwriter, you may want to enter your screenplay into a contest. Yes, you may have to pay for some of the contests but they could be worth it if you end up selling your screenplay. Get your sunglasses ready because the glare from the Hollywood sign may be too much for your eyes!
If you’re unsure if your screenplay is ready, hire a script consultant to review it. You can pay anywhere from $50 to $500 an hour or a flat rate for a consultant to read your script. If you want it done ASAP, you may have to pay a higher rate.
The alternative to hiring a script consultant is to have family and friends read your screenplay, especially if they’re in your target market. Make sure you have at least five people who can commit to reading your script. Feedback can help you “tweak” your dialogue to ensure it is spot-on before you enter it a contest.
Before you enter a screenwriting contest, read all of the rules. Make sure you understand the terms of the contest. You may want to register your screenplay with the U.S. Copyright Office or some other agency if you don’t live in the United States of America. To register your script in the U.S., it costs $35 for a basic claim. You can either upload your screenplay or send it through the mail.
Entering a screenwriting contest could be your ticket to Hollywood! All it takes is belief in yourself and stellar script. Don’t let the cost of contests scare you. You don’t have to pay $100s of dollars to enter contests. Find contests that resonate with you and enter them. Consider entering three or four contests a year. You never know where it will lead you!
Rebecca
What screenwriting contests have you entered? Share.