
However, it is not just through screenwriting competitions that writers can begin to get their work noticed, and made. Robyn Slovo spoke candidly about how crucial it is that writers work across other forms of media as well – particularly theatre. Adding that Executive Producers are potentially more likely to go to see a play than to read a script, she noted that by writing for theatre, writers have a great opportunity to showcase their talent and attract finance for feature film. With the innovations in theatre, Judith King noted that there is the possibility of writing with a more filmic approach than may be traditionally associated with the format, and James Cotton’s hit film “Powder Room” was itself adapted from a stage play. Comparatively speaking, it is easier to have a play staged than a feature film produced, so this platform for innovative and original storytelling is an excellent way for writers to attract attention to their talent!
- Thoroughly research who you are approaching: an insight into their work and experience and why they are a good match for your project will help convince a Producer to read your script.
- The first 10 – 20 pages of your script must be especially strong to engage the reader and keep them gripped.
- Your characters don’t need to be likeable, but they must be interesting as you need the reader to keep turning your pages.
- Producers and financiers want to make scripts that have a strong central idea, with good casting opportunities.
And so attention was turned to this year’s winning writers and the Screen Story Competition announcements were made:
Honourable mention was made of George Johnson’s “Peace Pledge” and Sean Healy’s “Russian Doll” which were projects the judges agreed deserved recognition for the potential they demonstrated.
Ross Dunsmore for “The Tin Box”
Haya Husseini for “Raining Bones”
Radhika Kapur for “William, Kate aur Raja”
2nd Place, winning a full report worth £210 on a script of their choosing is:
K T Parker for “A Face to Paint”
1st Place, winning three full reports and working with a Script Editor for a year on the winning screenplay idea is:
Ann Hawker for “Frozen Rose”
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