So, had two scripts requested over the past few months and they both were passed on. One executive was clear and concise as to why they passed, while the other was just “did not connect”. Is there a particular protocol when it come to relaying information after a script is passed on? Needless to say I am bummed and I am not really too sure where to go from here. Do I do a complete rewrite of these scripts, take what the executive said and go with it or what? I’m not sure if I should be pitching these scripts if they were both passed on. Not to mention since the introduction of the new scoring system of the pitches, my scores have consistently gone down. Not the most ringing endorsements as of late so I guess I’m just looking for some guidance. As always, your insight is always helpful and much appreciated.
Screenwriting : A Question for the Learned. by Michael Reutter
Other topics in Screenwriting:
Check out Trending Discussions
Register / Log In
Hi Michael, I think you should put it away for a few days and kick the frustration out of your body by any sport or whatever. Just to get new ideas and take a step back from your scripts. Then, you find under 'Happy Writers' the point 'coverage' which is a good way to let your screenplays check. I just read about this a few days ago, but when my script is done I will definitely use this service before I send it to any contests or pitch it. It costs some money, but it will give you the answers to all the questions you have now and bring your scripts on the next level. Good luck!
1 person likes this
That's part of my frustration - I actually sent in the script that was accepted to be covered and got the pass - so I'm worried that I will have a lot of work to do once I get the coverage back - thanks for the insight - I have been doing the complete opposite - guess that's why I'm out of my head. Thanks Elisabeth!
You're welcome. Cheer up! You learned something and you already know that your stories are great. All the best.
LOL - thanks - Cheers!
Coverage is a great first step! Sometimes I even get coverage on more than one draft just to see if the screenplay's really ready to go. It's a long process. Regarding the "passes," I'm no expert on the topic, but I don't think you can completely rewrite every script for every person who tells you to. I like to take the feedback that resonates with me. Feedback that says "you really get my story, and your idea will make it so much stronger!" If what they said makes sense to you, and got you excited (after you're done being disappointed -- you have to leave time for that too!) then go for it! But, that said, you've probably also heard about people pitching 99 times and connecting with someone on the 100th, or 1,000th. Two is not a lot.
2 people like this
Hi Michael. Don't be too disheartened. If they requested your script, the concept has potential, but something is askew in the actual execution. You need to identify what the issue is and how to fix it. Is it structure, plot or character. A mix of trusted peers and script coverage services help IMO. Kind Regards, Eoin
1 person likes this
What a fantastic achievement to have TWO scripts requested. At the end of the day you only need ONE person, who is able to actually get your script into the right hands, to like it. Rewriting should be a natural part of your craft. They're never finished. Even if they're made. You need to rewrite. Rewrite again. And then some more. And when you're sick of even thinking about your script - do another polish, send if off for feedback and forgetaboutit. In the meantime work on your other scripts and/or developing new stories. If you're not happy with your scripts then why would anyone else be? I feel you're giving too much of a shit about what a couple of individuals think. Don't worry about those who aren't interested in your work, concentrate on those who are. Can see you're having a pity party. I've called the police and they'll be over shortly to shut it down cos no one who was crying into their warm beer in the corner ever achieved anything. Keep going, Michael.
4 people like this
Good points above about balancing professional reactions/passes on screenplays with your own sense of the story you want to tell. Keep in mind that the script in your head may not be the script that made it to the page -- playwrights have this problem, too. That's one of the reasons putting a script aside for a time is good practice so you can later read it with fresh eyes. Since these two folks requested your script, that's a very good start -- it means something about your story/logline/synopsis captured their attention over 1000s of other scripts. So you might want to send them a very brief email simply thanking them for taking the time to read it.
Great idea, Richard. That's a very professional way to show you can handle critic and you appreciate their readings. This could lead to a new request for the rewritten draft from the same people.
3 people like this
Thanks everyone for the help! Sorry if I came off as naive to my initial inquiry. I started on a new script and put the other two aside for now in order to get a fresh perspective at a later date. I have one thank you down and just need to track down the other Exec for the second. As always, thanks for the insight! You're the best!