SPRING - SUMMER 2008 CONTEST:

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
AND ANSWERS THERETO:

What kind of screenplays can I submit? What are you looking for?

We encourage submissions from any and all genres, from comedy to horror to science fiction to drama and everything in between. As in real life, we never know what's going to happen—no particular genre has an edge. Our winner may be a horror movie about mutant hedgehogs or a biopic on the life of Ivan the Terrible. What our judges are looking for is a great story, compelling characters, and sharp dialogue. We want your best work without regard to genre or budget.  In fact, the new Special Jury Prize, "Suzanne's Prize for Best Love Story" specifically says genre is wide open. 

Can I submit an adaptation of a previously written work or similar material?

Unlike some of our previous contests, the AAA Screenplay Contest does accept adaptations, on one of two conditions: a) that the work is in the public domain, or b) that the author has the right to use the material and can provide written proof thereof. A good adaptation is just as hard to find as an original work, and we feel that these scripts should be given a shot.

Can I submit more than one script to the contest?

Yes! Feel free to enter one script, or twenty—we'll read them all! Because judging is a subjective process, multiple submissions will be distributed to different readers to make sure that each script has an equal chance. Each script should be submitted as a separate entry—one application and release form per script, as well as $35 if you submit early, just $40 for the regular deadline, or $45 if you submit for the "One Last Rewrite" deadline; or $27 for an early teleplay, $30 for an on-time teleplay, and $35 for a "One Last Rewrite" teleplay.

Will there be an extension?  Your contests seem to do that every year.

Possibly, but DO NOT count on it, and we will make it costly to be tardy.  We strongly encourage an on-time work ethic--you'll need to be on time as a working screenwriter, and we don't like the extensions game.   But if someone wants to pay extra to submit late, we'll take his/her money at a higher price and give the script a fair and careful read.  Our page, http://creativescreenwriting.com/aaa/deadlines.html is our final word on extensions.  

Are there discounts for submitting multiple scripts?

No. Instead of offering multiple script discounts we are offering a discount for early entry, a regular-deadline price as low as possible, and slightly higher price for those who need extra time because that extra time makes it necessary for us to bring in extra help.  So you can save by entering your most finished scripts early. 

I live in another country. Can I still enter the contest?

Of course! We encourage submissions from all over the world. All submissions should be in English, and all funds should be payable in U.S. funds, either by money order or credit card.

I have sold/optioned a script before, and/or I have an agent/manager. Am I still eligible?

Absolutely! However, because the contest is geared toward offering access into the world of screenwriting, we do have to limit applicants to those who have made less than $8,000 on feature options or sales.

Does my script have to be formatted? How long should my script be?

Scripts will not be disqualified based on formatting, but keep in mind that the purpose of this contest is to provide a foot in the door to a professional writing career. Good script formatting will not only make your script easier to read, but it's also something every writer needs to know. Traditionally, scripts are 90-130 pages in length. Scripts that are over 125 pages require an extra $10 entry fee.

How do I submit my script?

Scripts can be submitted in two ways:
•  Print out a copy of the submission form and mail it to us with the entry fee, release form, a self-addressed stamped envelope, and your script. If you would like confirmation of receipt, please send along a self-addressed stamped postcard, which will be mailed back as soon as your script is processed.
•  Use our online system and submit your script as a .PDF, .RTF, Movie Magic Screenwriter, MS Word, or Final Draft file (.FDR). Online submissions will be confirmed via e-mail.

When is the deadline for script submissions?
Scripts must be postmarked/submitted online by July 15th, 2007.

How do I protect my script?
We recommend that all scripts be registered with the WGA or copyrighted through the U.S. Copyright Office. Keep in mind that many ideas are similar, and Creative Screenwriting is not responsible for scripts with similar storylines.

Who will read my script? How does the judging work?

All scripts will be judged by a panel of experienced industry readers. Our judges have read for a variety of production companies, studios, agencies, and distinguished coverage services. The top ten percent of our entries will go on to the quarterfinal round, where three or four senior readers will narrow the field down to our ten finalists. Our senior readers will each read the top ten scripts to decide on the final three, and a Grand Prize winner.

When will winners be notified?

Semifinalists will be notified and posted on the website by September 1. Finalists will be announced by September 15, and the winner will be chosen no later than October 1.

What do I win? and What does “access” mean?

Breaking into the world of screenwriting is no easy task. By “access” we mean our way of giving a few talented writers a push in the right direction. In fact, we have signficantly increased your access opportunities with this year's contest.  See the page http://creativescreenwriting.com/aaa/access.html for full details.

Other questions?

For complete rules, please consult the official AAA Screenplay Contest rules page.

Confused? Concerned? Lost? Please feel free to contact contest coordinator, Pasha McKenley  -- aaacontest@creativescreenwriting.com

AAA Contest Sponsors Include 
These Organizations: