Screenwriting : Script Completion by Matthew Anthony Williams

Hi Matthew, I started writing my first script back in June. Even after submitting it to a contest, I find that it's not finished. I've written and submitted one more since and am currently working on a third one. So now 7 mos after writing the first one, I get the impression that I've only just begun because I am intending on going back through all of them again, even though I have submitted two of them. My guess is that I will know that they are complete when and if they get put up on the screen.

As others have said, a script may not ever be 100% complete in your mind—some of your characters might have more in store for you, I know mine do—but that’s ok. Something that has worked for me:

Take a short break, then if the script is polished enough, get feedback (friends, people you know will be honest or objective about how it lands, etc), submit the draft that makes the most people react well, and go do something fun, then get back to writing another story. Endless rewriting can cloud your judgement of your skill level. I was stuck in the same trap with my first script and I absolutely hated it by the end. I drove my editor crazy and took all of the feedback I received, high or low quality, to heart. Only recently (over a year later) can I look at it with a more level head.

I find that as I mature in my writing, I look back at things I wrote half a year ago and see ways I could improve them. If my findings are consistent with feedback and coverage I have received, then it’s time to go ahead and fix those things. The most important things I’ve gotten as feedback are in the forms of questions. Why did he/she do this? What does this mean? Basically, points of confusion.

Above all else: don’t worry about it. It seems to be a common experience. Just move on and enjoy your writing :)

its never gonna be perfect but to know if its READY, id highly suggest getting pro notes, not just peer feedback, and getting an experienced expert opinion. (like mine lol).

I tend to know when a “questionable” script is ready when attempting to tweak it makes it less powerful. Nothings perfect but you gotta know it’s last best shot.

I like to rewrite my scripts a lot of times, Matthew Anthony Williams. At some point, I just know that a script is finished. Sometimes I'll get feedback on a script before pitching it.

I won't market my work until I earn a RECOMMEND from coverage/notes. If I can't get there, I won't pitch. It's too damn competitive. Just my two cents.

I don't know about this one. I want to say it's complete when it's sold. But at the same time i think at some point you haave to realize that you've done all you can for your baby it's time for her to fly. lol.

Thank you, all. These comments were really helpful. I will definitely look into coverages Sam Cochran.

You're welcome, Matthew.

When the guy paying me says "Thank you"...

Matthew Anthony Williams Stage32 and the Screenplay Gurus both offer solid coverage. I'm sure there are others that offer quality coverage, but I've found those to be the best so far.

Matthew Anthony Williams complete may be the wrong word to use, Matthew. I’d say it was complete when it was on the screen in a theatre. If you sell it, those working on it in production will have their own ideas about it. Then when it gets to the cutting room, the editor and director will also have a say in crafting the final story that people will see.

I would say that your part as the writer is over when you are happy with it and believe it’s ready to be sold.

I agree with Geoff. Screenplays are organic documents that evolve at every turn until they are on screen. Executives, producers, directors and actors may have thoughts and input as a project moves forward. Believe in your voice and your work and share it with those you respect or are considering working with and allow their thoughts and feedback to pressure test the script - don’t take all notes because they are given but considering notes always makes a script stronger one way or another.

Hi Matthew, I am the Director of Development Services on Stage 32. If you need help with feedback, shoot me an email at success@stage32.com and let me know a little more about your projects and your goals and we can recommend an executive for your project! Always happy to help.

Thanks Sam! I recently purchased coverage for a pilot and received some amazing and very helpful feedback. I’m hard at work addressing those comments now, but I will definitely reach out once I’m done editing.

Congrats on the amazing feedback, Matthew Anthony Williams!

Thanks, Maurice! I have a lot to edit, but that’s apart of the process. The founder of this site in so many words asked day one if I’ll use the tools or leave them in the shed. I’m going to use all the tools.

You're welcome, Matthew Anthony Williams. I remember RB saying that. Glad you're using the tools. :) Keep us posted on your pilot.