The Blacklist launched my career. My first screenplay recently scored an 8 and went trending on the site resulting in 27 industry downloads. I had managers, PAs, and actors reach out to me, ultimately landing me representation and generals lined up for January and we haven't even taken the script out. All within the span of less than a month. Franklin Leonard is also a really cool dude and runs a tight ship. Just my experience. Best of luck to you, Jay!
@@gianthills"industry downloads" ... yes on imdb 99% of industry players are producing or participate in low badget movies, fighting for the breadcumps fall off the big guys dining table. This dude just came here to see recognised himself at least among the losers.
Bro, this video cheered me up. No lie. I have been screenwriting since 2013. I entered blklst for the first time in 2018 and got a 3/10. It became a game after that to see how high I could get the score. I'd get notes and do extensive rewrites until my people would say it's good. Summer 2021, I got a 7/10. In my head, I literally thought the next thing I wrote would be perfect and begin my writing career. I worked my butt off in august with this superproofed idea. My wife and I went out to dinner because we knew this was a perfect script. I got two evaluations back today, both 4/10. A little bit broken-hearted, but it goes to show that this game is tricky. Thanks for the insight. This actually did turn my day around.
Yeah, it's all tricky and subjective. But we gotta keep pushing. Because there's someone out there who will love our work. Keep at it, my friend. Thanks for watching and commenting. ✊🏾
I bought six reads. The exact same script got anywhere from an 8 to a 4. BL wayyy to subjective for me. Have left it. Trying contests, but only the ones where reps are judging.
@@geoffhoutman1557 I would not fret about wild scores on the Blacklist. The majority of scripts that get high 8s on that site now are either women empowerment or racial issues which kind of tells you the type of readers they're hiring as of late. Literally one of the scripts that got high 8s recently was There You Are, a script about a college girl who cheats on her boyfriend with a handsome European and then goes on tour of Italy with their lesbian friend. I couldn't believe it. It was teenage wish-fulfilment tripe.
I upload to the black list every now and again. Three weeks ago I got an 8/10 and they tweeted my script and got 6 industry downloads so far and two free evaluations. The second came back a 6/10 making my overall a 7/10 getting me on the "top list" section. I'm waiting on my third evaluation a bit broken hearted. You are totally in the hands of subjective readers and that is a dangerous business for the faint of heart.... like me. Nice video it's good to see the community struggle together in this very subjective medium.
Hey, thanks for watching, Cailin. Hopefully this video is helpful and enlightening. I’m just speaking from my own experiences! And best of luck to you on your screenwriting journey. See you on the big screen! 🙌🏾
Even though the category seems biased because they want to focus on colored writers and stories, ( sorry for the illeteration) it sounded like you had some fantastic notes. After this review it seems you should go back to the drawing board
I thought my screenplay was the s*** until I got a 6 on The blacklist. It was a punch in the gut at first, but a much-needed reality check that opened my eyes to huge problems that would have held it back. I've since undertaken a rewrite and the script is way, way better. I haven't resubmitted it yet but I'm a lot more confident about it now, even than I was before
Jay... based on the clarity of your assessment of Black List... if your writing is anywhere near the same quality as your verbal presentation, you will succeed. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience... hope to see your credit on screen soon... for your whole script, not just an 'advisory' intro.
Sup bro! Enjoyed this one. I just did a Blacklist vid yesterday. I was looking around UA-cam and found yours. Lol. Why didn’t you tell me you had a channel. Just subscribed bro! 😎🤙🏾
Ayyy! I thought you knew about my channel. 😅 I’m on a hiatus right now but I’ll be making and posting new videos soon. Thanks for watching and subscribing. Gotta check out your Black List vid!
Never heard of this "BLACK LIST" thing. I like this guy. Well done, man. Sounds like agents have found another hustle. Wow. I worked as a professional reader in old days.Did "coverage" for damn near every studio in town. Actually "passed" on the BLUES BROTHERS... One of best "scripts" I covered was THE LONE RANGER. THE PRODUCER WANTED TO HAVE ANOTHER WRITER DO A "POLISH"--SO WE MET--HE GAVE ME 3 SCRIPTS TO READ OF "OTHER" WRITERS TO SEE WHO I THOUGHT WOULD BE BEST TO DO A "POLISH"--HELL, I DIDN'T THINK THAT WAS NECESSARY. BUT I DID THE JOB. MADE A RECOMMENDATION(sorry, old fingers hit caps--and I don't wanna waste time retyping---so) Anyway---that movie? Turned out to be lousy. Helluva script. Lousy movie. They probably shouldda 86'd idea of a "polish" writer...and called me in to help with "casting". That said...thanks for the info. I am now a subscriber. Got an idea...take that money? Add a few more bucks? MAKE YOUR MOVIE! Oh hell, just saw this is from 3 years ago. Lemme go check see where Mr. Fingers is today. Did he make his own movie? Did he do any acting(he's got the "charisma")...
@@ElCineHefe The biggest issue with the Blacklist is that the readers seem randomly assigned despite the genre. This forces you to buy a ton of reads to get a fair assessment.
It's been over a year since you posted this video. Any luck so far? I too got a 6 from the Blacklist. My script is a comedy, cat and mouse type script. I have others in the works. You?
I Got a few 8's and they gave me two free evaluations, which hit at about 7 each instance. Had a fair bit of interest but never came to much. Hard to get scripts into the right hands, good or bad without industry contacts.
Absolutely right. Plenty of mediocre work gets developed simply because the writer(s) know the right people. Ah well, such is life. Sounds like you've got some good stuff on your hands tho, so don't keep at it. Persistence is key in this game. Thanks for watching and commenting. 🙌🏾
I plan to make the blacklist by early 2024. One can hope, I think it's a combination of luck and hard work. I also plan to submit three scripts. So I really have to make sure it's tight. I think it's great that you are open about the process and your perspective on this if anything is to evolve for writers.
What are the best competitions to try and enter? I just sent a script into blacklist and am waiting on feedback but after reading some reviews of the site, I’m kinda refraining from getting my hopes up too much lol
🤣🤣 I hear ya. There are very few competitions I would enter or invest any hope in. Obviously, the Nicholl Fellowship is the big one. There’s also Final Draft’s Big Break, PAGE, and Austin Film Festival, although there’s been a lot of grumbling about Austin the past couple of years so do a little research before making a decision. The rest of these contests are, in my opinion, cash grabs that won’t really do anything for you or your script. Save your money and either make your own film or invest in the craft (workshops, courses, books, etc.). Cheers, and best of luck! 🙌🏾
backlist (paid service) has some of the worst, if not the worst, 'readers/evaluators.' people on average get a 7-8 and then a 2-4 on their scripts. and usually repeated on next the submissions. so many (including industry players who have no ties to such competitions/paid services) have complained this built-in inconsistency is a scam and hustle to get people to keep paying, etc., which in turn just degrades the whole landscape for creators/honest talent and the industry itself. their service cannot be said to be any more valuable or resourceful or meaningful than the other so-called top or even low-tier scriptwriting competitions. nicholl's evaluation process is also quite ridiculous, with their 'expert readers' giving wildly opposing or conflicting (and wholly confusing) notes on any given script (current competition's or subsequent submission's feedback notes), not to mention the notes frequently clue you in on how amateurish or calculating the evaluators are and their unnatural tendency to reward/opt for dramas with inconsequential themes/content (even with sloppy writing) over those with more important ones or with taboo or really rarely-seen subject matter (despite the better writing). but blacklist could be even worse. (which makes me think their annual blacklist list is also suspect - and having read some of those listed scripts, i am not wrong. they range from plain awful to seriously gimmicky. same with many of the nicholl's winners and semi-finalists. nicholl could have maybe one really really good quality script but only out of fifty thousand entries for say, ten years. blacklist, not even that lucky. and the scripts they cull to get made, they are not even worth 1.99 bucks at the dvd sale bin. it's that bad, folks, let's not be coy about the reality of it all. if the scripts are all garbage, man, the readers are not that better.) naturally, there is a degree of subjectivity with readers/evaluators.... but come on. (it's interesting to note that while so many do experience the above, their same work gets more consistent evalatuations from overseas industry experts/resources.)
Thanks for sharing your experience. I feel the same way about them. They're a business so why wouldn't they put their financial interests first? I've been contemplating doing it as well and I would only do the one time. I wish they were transparent about how many 8s, 9s, & 10s they give each year for first submissions.
One of my professors at UCLA was once a reader for WB. She felt that the Black List started with good intentions but quickly evolved into a money machine. How has your script done since then? Working on new projects?
I agree with your professor. I still think it has fairly good intentions - they cosponsor lost of fellowships and opportunities - but they’re definitely looking to make money off screenwriters’ dreams now. I’m going to make a video about everything but for now I’ll say this particular script has opened some doors for me.
@@JayFingers I'm happy to hear that! I've entered a few contests here and there but it gets pretty tiresome when you spend so much money and go nowhere. I've kinda shifted my focus more towards prose and novel writing (completely different beast) but I still write short scripts for fun. Do you ever see yourself producing your own movie or working with an indie team?
No experience with ScreenCraft, sorry. I do like that they have contests for different genres. A lot of times I feel like genre scripts are at a disadvantage in most contests, which seem to only reward so-called serious scripts. 🙄
I got the best feedback from Screencraft. Very user-friendly and most importantly, actionable. Doesn't mean you'll have the same experience, even if you got the same reader. But the feedback from WeScreenplay seemed like it was written by a teen just off the bus. They kept saying the same thing over and over just to fill up the three pages...
My brother placed fairly high on one Screencraft contest. I believe the genre was sci fi adventure. Always keep budget in mind as this affects the visual effects, practical effects, locations and all that stuff
I'm on the Blacklist fence. I appreciate your video. So if you upload a script but don't get the evaluation, can studio people still read it? I hate to say, is it possible that execs read these scripts for ideas and turn around and make a similar movie? Thanks for your input!
*"So if you upload a script but don't get the evaluation, can studio people still read it?"* Technically, yes. But it's extremely unlikely unless you score an 8 or higher. *"I hate to say, is it possible that execs read these scripts for ideas and turn around and make a similar movie?"* This is something a lot of aspiring writers worry about that almost never happens. However, if you're that paranoid about it, you can register your script (or even literally just an idea/treatment) with the WGA for some protection. For complete protection, you'll want to copyright your work, but in most scenarios a WGA registration is sufficient.
@@baphometic8767 there is no copyright police, or wga police, you will have to lawyers. Plus, I'm talking about ideas, not stealing the whole script. You can't copyright ideas.
Script evaluation is big business. No one’s offering them for free. However, if you join a writers group, that may be a way to get some good (and free) feedback. Also, if you’re not already on Twitter, you should consider joining. There’s a large screenwriting community on there and most people are friendly. A lot of people will offer to read your script and give feedback. Thanks for watching and best of luck!
I am an aspiring screenwriter, just started out, and well after 4 evaluations on blklst, I do feel like I am not going anywhere, my career started not too long ago, so could you maybe refer me some contests, websites, or any other methods which could help really, cuz at this point I don’t want to waste time pursuing that 8 score, cuz I do realise that it’s subjective, I think since a few industry members have downloaded my screenplay after I made some changes in the logline I would just keep hosting as like you said, it’s subjective and u never know so yeah that’s bout it and glad that I found this video
@@Reggie2000 Yeah I’m still working on the same screenplay, It’s a science fiction. It’s been honestly very hectic to manage once the lockdown ended. Like maintaining attendance, assignments, projects, etc. but I still somehow find time to work on my screenplay as well, And after I decided to not go for blklst, There has been zero direction for me to work with. But I overcame that by rewriting the screenplay in my native language which is hindi. Felt a lot more authentic and got better at understanding my weak segments, after which I decided to rewrite that finished screenplay back in english, which is what I’m currently doing. But hey man, thanks for asking that question, It has been so long since I started when I was like 17 and I totally forgot I even ever commented this. Watching your story in your head for like infinite times going through the same screenplay does get boring… Hope I make it one day🤞🏼
@WaseemKhan-kv4cs My best pieces of advice. One, in the long run, write speculation screenplays fast. You're not being paid, so why spend years on something that might never sale, instead of rushing something that might never sale. They're gonna rewrite it anyways, guaranteed. Two, open big. Even if it's wrong. Screenplay readers give you at best, two scenes to grab their attention. They can always cut the big opening. But you 100% need a big opening to sale your screenplay. Especially sci-fi. Three, you have a better chance if a sci-fi book becoming a film, then a sci-fi screenplay alone. Hollywood loves books. And if it's also YA (young adult), so much the better. But definitely consider making it into a book if it doesn't sale. Good luck!!! 👍
@@Reggie2000 Thank you so much for the advice.. I already open quite big- it’s literally an explosion leading to a gunfight to a car chase chaos over a suitcase accidentally containing a portal to a parallel universe which is also revealed by the 10nth or so page. And also my protagonist is a 12 year old who just happens to pick up the suitcase on his way back home, becoming the part of the chaos. Readers who evaluated the screenplay have never held back from expressing how good the concept and action is, And how the screenplay can cater to a wide swath of mainstream market place as the audience is across the age spectrum. Honestly what seemed to be lacking was my writing skills and my ability to express myself. As I just started out back then my level of English, was just not cinematic enough and there was no flow. So Reading was not a good experience. I have improved considerably since then, At the time I also wrote to Dominic Morgan- "Scriptfella", which is his youtube name, And he advised me that I was very young and that writing is a craft which I should focus on developing before spending any more money on it. And I guess that is what I have been doing since then. But thank you again for reaching out and for your valuable advice- The reason I am writing this is not because I love writing but because I want to bring this story, my story on screen someday and I also want to act a side role just to be a part of this crazy universe. Edit: I still don’t know any other way (other than blklst) of breaking into the industry from being way out here😂, so I don’t know how I’m gonna make it happen but I’ll find a way:)
@WaseemKhan-kv4cs BOOK! You can't control the screenplay game when you're young and starting out. UNLESS, you actually move to Hollywood, and start working on Indie films for free to make contacts. But you can write a book and try to get it published. I'm completely serious when I say that it's an insider secret that the best way to get a screenplay sold, is to write it into a book. I wish you the best of luck. 👍
What I wonder with The Blacklist is - who is reviewing and reading? Are these people in the business? Is it some dude who also works at Mickey Ds part time and has a GED?
Right! Great questions that need answers. You should check out my buddy Jayson’s videos on the Black List. He did a whole series and he’s asking the same kinds of questions. ua-cam.com/video/PoTObMYEaFY/v-deo.html
Screenwriting is not traditional writing, unfortunately there are no paths for learning yet. Just Utubers selling out on it. Fortunately Black list seems at least something. ❤
My sense is it is primarily a business model that serves the business, not the writers. Evaluations are always fake, because they want you to keep using them, but that is typical of other coverage services, not just the black list. If you know you have something solid, you don't need to pay to have someone tell that. You just have to get your script to the right producer.
I agree to an extent. I believe it depends on the evaluation service and the promises/guarantees they make. For example, a site like the Black List comes with certain expectations and promises if you get a certain score; but another service like WeScreenplay doesn't make those promises, so it feels (to me) less like a racket.
My problem is that I don't know how to reach out to those producers, and when you find one they, usually, don't read your screenplay, so is kind of a big problem.
@@ibai710 you're right. They won't read your actually screenplay unless they like the log line or teaser or synopsis, but it's not easy. I feel like most just stick to the people they've worked with over the years and don't even open strange emails. Other ways are to hire a Lawyer who will get your stuff in front of producers, but of course it's not cheap. Or you can try to get a Manager, which I discovered is like looking for a needle in a haystack.
@@gianthillsYeah, is difficult, I wanna try to make a career though. I’ve never submitted a screenplay to BL so I guess I would try soon, of course, having the knowledge that my screenplay is good. I should make some rewritings first. But I’m confident and hopeful so I think that I can achieve something( at least a manager or an agent XD) Thanks for your message
@@ibai710 Excellent. The rewrites and revisions can seem endless. Cut out everything you don't absolutely need and make sure the genre isn't confused. Another thing to consider is that you can write something very solid, but some organizations will judge your writing through a political or cultural lens.
Not sure what you're asking here. The Black List is strictly for screenplays, not books. But if I adapted one of my books into a screenplay, then I could submit it to the Black List. Hope that answers your question. ☺
I’m about to post on the black list, I think just one month is enough to see if I can get some feedback, I write only because I enjoy it, not trying for a career but it would be eye opening to get feedback in case I’m super great,…or super awful, life’s a life.
Hey, I hear you. Go for it. I think that ultimately the feedback will be helpful, or at least give you an idea of where you are as a writer. Here’s hoping you get an 8 or higher! 🙌🏾
Honestly, if your material is ready to be read, I’d do what you suggested and hit IMDb Pro and look up producers and managers to query. Find ones who’ve dealt with material similar to yours, craft a dope query letter, and go from there. Contests are cool and all, but IMO unless you place in one of the big ones, they don’t do much for your career.
But if you do think your scripts need more work, sure, keep writing and getting feedback. Coverage services like the Black List and WeScreenplay are very good for that. Also, get feedback from trusted readers you know - honest friends, other writers, etc. Then, once your script is the best it can be, start querying. Best of luck, bro! ✊🏾
At the time, evaluations were $75, I think, and there was an additional $30 per month charge to host your script on the site in case “industry professionals” wanted to download and read it. I believe prices for evaluations have gone up since then.
@@JayFingers Ok, I'm giving it a shot with a comedy feature of mine. I read a lady kept hers on there for a year, and finally a producer contacted her and made her movie.
Waste of time. Don't revise unless it has been optioned or sold. You will be spinning your wheels. This industry got writers spinning their wheels all the time.
At first it was a good idea. Help aspiring screen writers to get access to film and television and cable executives, but now Leonard Franklin has seen this site develop into a money-making web site that could support him and possibly make him rich. I saw this coming. I don't enter or submit my screenplays to any contest or website. Do you know how many script ideas are stolen, changed somewhat and made into movies? A lot! The best way to bring attention to your screenplay is to network with other writers who have had a script produced and ask them what the best route is to take for your story. Many successful writers are not interested in stealing your story; they have too many ideas of their own to develop. If you can get your screenplay (once it's perfected and can be submitted to an actor) to an established star; via a friend who knows someone, etc. Your chances are better than submitting your story blindly to an online website that's only interested in your submission money. There are contests that are reputable for submission; The Austin Film Festival (in Texas), Writer's Guild of America, etc. There's one more, Nicholl Fellow Ship. These are the most-worthy of contests. Screenwriting contests are a big risk, both financially and emotionally. Good luck and please pass this information on to your viewers. Be careful.
The Blacklist launched my career. My first screenplay recently scored an 8 and went trending on the site resulting in 27 industry downloads. I had managers, PAs, and actors reach out to me, ultimately landing me representation and generals lined up for January and we haven't even taken the script out. All within the span of less than a month. Franklin Leonard is also a really cool dude and runs a tight ship. Just my experience. Best of luck to you, Jay!
Glad you had a great experience. Thanks for sharing! 🙌🏾
But no sale? What was it about?
cool, what is it about?
@@gianthills"industry downloads" ... yes on imdb 99% of industry players are producing or participate in low badget movies, fighting for the breadcumps fall off the big guys dining table. This dude just came here to see recognised himself at least among the losers.
@@lafk-lottyenaforrokave4700 seems he is afraid to share his log line.
Bro, this video cheered me up. No lie. I have been screenwriting since 2013. I entered blklst for the first time in 2018 and got a 3/10. It became a game after that to see how high I could get the score. I'd get notes and do extensive rewrites until my people would say it's good. Summer 2021, I got a 7/10. In my head, I literally thought the next thing I wrote would be perfect and begin my writing career. I worked my butt off in august with this superproofed idea. My wife and I went out to dinner because we knew this was a perfect script. I got two evaluations back today, both 4/10. A little bit broken-hearted, but it goes to show that this game is tricky.
Thanks for the insight. This actually did turn my day around.
Yeah, it's all tricky and subjective. But we gotta keep pushing. Because there's someone out there who will love our work. Keep at it, my friend. Thanks for watching and commenting. ✊🏾
Hey, anywhere to read it? Best of luck with your writing !
I bought six reads. The exact same script got anywhere from an 8 to a 4. BL wayyy to subjective for me. Have left it. Trying contests, but only the ones where reps are judging.
@@geoffhoutman1557 I would not fret about wild scores on the Blacklist. The majority of scripts that get high 8s on that site now are either women empowerment or racial issues which kind of tells you the type of readers they're hiring as of late. Literally one of the scripts that got high 8s recently was There You Are, a script about a college girl who cheats on her boyfriend with a handsome European and then goes on tour of Italy with their lesbian friend. I couldn't believe it. It was teenage wish-fulfilment tripe.
I upload to the black list every now and again. Three weeks ago I got an 8/10 and they tweeted my script and got 6 industry downloads so far and two free evaluations. The second came back a 6/10 making my overall a 7/10 getting me on the "top list" section. I'm waiting on my third evaluation a bit broken hearted. You are totally in the hands of subjective readers and that is a dangerous business for the faint of heart.... like me. Nice video it's good to see the community struggle together in this very subjective medium.
I love the way you explain things 😊 nice and simple, thank you!
also you have a great laugh
Thank you for doing this video. I'd heard of the Blacklist, but didn't really know what it was all about.
Im writing my 2nd screenplay and just heard about the the blacklist today. This video is a great resource!
Hey, thanks for watching, Cailin. Hopefully this video is helpful and enlightening. I’m just speaking from my own experiences! And best of luck to you on your screenwriting journey. See you on the big screen! 🙌🏾
really great video man. love your insights!
Thanks, Sean! Appreciate you watching and commenting. 🙏🏾
Your voice is so deep. 🔥
Even though the category seems biased because they want to focus on colored writers and stories, ( sorry for the illeteration) it sounded like you had some fantastic notes. After this review it seems you should go back to the drawing board
I thought my screenplay was the s*** until I got a 6 on The blacklist. It was a punch in the gut at first, but a much-needed reality check that opened my eyes to huge problems that would have held it back. I've since undertaken a rewrite and the script is way, way better. I haven't resubmitted it yet but I'm a lot more confident about it now, even than I was before
Thanks for sharing your experiences. I had wondered what it was like.
Sure thing. Thanks for watching. 🙏🏾
Jay... based on the clarity of your assessment of Black List... if your writing is anywhere near the same quality as your verbal presentation, you will succeed. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience... hope to see your credit on screen soon... for your whole script, not just an 'advisory' intro.
Helpful information you have here.
Sup bro! Enjoyed this one. I just did a Blacklist vid yesterday. I was looking around UA-cam and found yours. Lol. Why didn’t you tell me you had a channel. Just subscribed bro! 😎🤙🏾
Ayyy! I thought you knew about my channel. 😅 I’m on a hiatus right now but I’ll be making and posting new videos soon. Thanks for watching and subscribing. Gotta check out your Black List vid!
Never heard of this "BLACK LIST" thing. I like this guy. Well done, man. Sounds like agents have found another hustle. Wow. I worked as a professional reader in old days.Did "coverage" for damn near every studio in town. Actually "passed" on the BLUES BROTHERS... One of best "scripts" I covered was THE LONE RANGER. THE PRODUCER WANTED TO HAVE ANOTHER WRITER DO A "POLISH"--SO WE MET--HE GAVE ME 3 SCRIPTS TO READ OF "OTHER" WRITERS TO SEE WHO I THOUGHT WOULD BE BEST TO DO A "POLISH"--HELL, I DIDN'T THINK THAT WAS NECESSARY. BUT I DID THE JOB. MADE A RECOMMENDATION(sorry, old fingers hit caps--and I don't wanna waste time retyping---so) Anyway---that movie? Turned out to be lousy. Helluva script. Lousy movie. They probably shouldda 86'd idea of a "polish" writer...and called me in to help with "casting". That said...thanks for the info. I am now a subscriber. Got an idea...take that money? Add a few more bucks? MAKE YOUR MOVIE! Oh hell, just saw this is from 3 years ago. Lemme go check see where Mr. Fingers is today. Did he make his own movie? Did he do any acting(he's got the "charisma")...
Thank you Brother.
The laugh always gets me! Glad to here you're keeping at it.
Ahaha, thanks, Andrea. I'm trying! Giving this all I've got!
If readers knew what makes a hit, they'd be writing it. No one knows anything.
You're absolutely right.
Not only, but the majority of them are unable to write one.
@@Felix-mp2vj There's nothing worse than a frustrated, failed artist judging other artists.
I think William Goldman said the same thing.
@@ElCineHefe The biggest issue with the Blacklist is that the readers seem randomly assigned despite the genre. This forces you to buy a ton of reads to get a fair assessment.
It's been over a year since you posted this video. Any luck so far? I too got a 6 from the Blacklist. My script is a comedy, cat and mouse type script. I have others in the works. You?
I Got a few 8's and they gave me two free evaluations, which hit at about 7 each instance. Had a fair bit of interest but never came to much. Hard to get scripts into the right hands, good or bad without industry contacts.
Absolutely right. Plenty of mediocre work gets developed simply because the writer(s) know the right people. Ah well, such is life. Sounds like you've got some good stuff on your hands tho, so don't keep at it. Persistence is key in this game. Thanks for watching and commenting. 🙌🏾
Knowing the right people is part of the game. @@JayFingers
what was it aboit
....so what I heard was, there's a chance 😁 to see chomp on a platform soon. Nice!
Ahahaha, we shall see! 🤞🏾
Cool
I plan to make the blacklist by early 2024. One can hope, I think it's a combination of luck and hard work.
I also plan to submit three scripts. So I really have to make sure it's tight.
I think it's great that you are open about the process and your perspective on this if anything is to evolve for writers.
Did you ever submit? And if so how did you get on? I'm debating to submit or not lol
Good luck.
Got an idea for absurd comedy similar to Dave Chappelle and Spike Lee and even Mel Brooks. A bunch of black guys go undercover into the klan
What are the best competitions to try and enter?
I just sent a script into blacklist and am waiting on feedback but after reading some reviews of the site, I’m kinda refraining from getting my hopes up too much lol
🤣🤣 I hear ya. There are very few competitions I would enter or invest any hope in. Obviously, the Nicholl Fellowship is the big one. There’s also Final Draft’s Big Break, PAGE, and Austin Film Festival, although there’s been a lot of grumbling about Austin the past couple of years so do a little research before making a decision. The rest of these contests are, in my opinion, cash grabs that won’t really do anything for you or your script. Save your money and either make your own film or invest in the craft (workshops, courses, books, etc.). Cheers, and best of luck! 🙌🏾
What is it about screenwriting contests that is not a particularly good way to get exposure?
backlist (paid service) has some of the worst, if not the worst, 'readers/evaluators.' people on average get a 7-8 and then a 2-4 on their scripts. and usually repeated on next the submissions. so many (including industry players who have no ties to such competitions/paid services) have complained this built-in inconsistency is a scam and hustle to get people to keep paying, etc., which in turn just degrades the whole landscape for creators/honest talent and the industry itself. their service cannot be said to be any more valuable or resourceful or meaningful than the other so-called top or even low-tier scriptwriting competitions. nicholl's evaluation process is also quite ridiculous, with their 'expert readers' giving wildly opposing or conflicting (and wholly confusing) notes on any given script (current competition's or subsequent submission's feedback notes), not to mention the notes frequently clue you in on how amateurish or calculating the evaluators are and their unnatural tendency to reward/opt for dramas with inconsequential themes/content (even with sloppy writing) over those with more important ones or with taboo or really rarely-seen subject matter (despite the better writing). but blacklist could be even worse. (which makes me think their annual blacklist list is also suspect - and having read some of those listed scripts, i am not wrong. they range from plain awful to seriously gimmicky. same with many of the nicholl's winners and semi-finalists. nicholl could have maybe one really really good quality script but only out of fifty thousand entries for say, ten years. blacklist, not even that lucky. and the scripts they cull to get made, they are not even worth 1.99 bucks at the dvd sale bin. it's that bad, folks, let's not be coy about the reality of it all. if the scripts are all garbage, man, the readers are not that better.) naturally, there is a degree of subjectivity with readers/evaluators.... but come on. (it's interesting to note that while so many do experience the above, their same work gets more consistent evalatuations from overseas industry experts/resources.)
Where can I go to learn screenwriting. I have written stories but not in script format. I have tons of great ideas for a script.
Thanks for sharing your experience. I feel the same way about them. They're a business so why wouldn't they put their financial interests first? I've been contemplating doing it as well and I would only do the one time. I wish they were transparent about how many 8s, 9s, & 10s they give each year for first submissions.
Yoo u gotta stop laughing it’s sinister 😂🙏😂
😂😂😂
😅
One of my professors at UCLA was once a reader for WB. She felt that the Black List started with good intentions but quickly evolved into a money machine.
How has your script done since then? Working on new projects?
I agree with your professor. I still think it has fairly good intentions - they cosponsor lost of fellowships and opportunities - but they’re definitely looking to make money off screenwriters’ dreams now.
I’m going to make a video about everything but for now I’ll say this particular script has opened some doors for me.
@@JayFingers I'm happy to hear that! I've entered a few contests here and there but it gets pretty tiresome when you spend so much money and go nowhere. I've kinda shifted my focus more towards prose and novel writing (completely different beast) but I still write short scripts for fun. Do you ever see yourself producing your own movie or working with an indie team?
She’s exactly right, that’s my experience!
@@chuckcav09 that's a shame. These are predatory practices
I am looking into submitting to a ScreenCraft script contest. Have any experience with them or other similar contests?
No experience with ScreenCraft, sorry. I do like that they have contests for different genres. A lot of times I feel like genre scripts are at a disadvantage in most contests, which seem to only reward so-called serious scripts. 🙄
I got the best feedback from Screencraft. Very user-friendly and most importantly, actionable. Doesn't mean you'll have the same experience, even if you got the same reader. But the feedback from WeScreenplay seemed like it was written by a teen just off the bus. They kept saying the same thing over and over just to fill up the three pages...
My brother placed fairly high on one Screencraft contest. I believe the genre was sci fi adventure. Always keep budget in mind as this affects the visual effects, practical effects, locations and all that stuff
I'm on the Blacklist fence. I appreciate your video.
So if you upload a script but don't get the evaluation, can studio people still read it?
I hate to say, is it possible that execs read these scripts for ideas and turn around and make a similar movie?
Thanks for your input!
*"So if you upload a script but don't get the evaluation, can studio people still read it?"*
Technically, yes. But it's extremely unlikely unless you score an 8 or higher.
*"I hate to say, is it possible that execs read these scripts for ideas and turn around and make a similar movie?"*
This is something a lot of aspiring writers worry about that almost never happens. However, if you're that paranoid about it, you can register your script (or even literally just an idea/treatment) with the WGA for some protection. For complete protection, you'll want to copyright your work, but in most scenarios a WGA registration is sufficient.
@@baphometic8767 there is no copyright police, or wga police, you will have to lawyers. Plus, I'm talking about ideas, not stealing the whole script. You can't copyright ideas.
Thanks or the video! I just got a blcklst feedback too. Could you recommend any services to get a free evaluation?
Script evaluation is big business. No one’s offering them for free. However, if you join a writers group, that may be a way to get some good (and free) feedback. Also, if you’re not already on Twitter, you should consider joining. There’s a large screenwriting community on there and most people are friendly. A lot of people will offer to read your script and give feedback. Thanks for watching and best of luck!
@@JayFingers thanks for your response. I participate at the screenwriter's community on reddit, but will try twitter too.
I am an aspiring screenwriter, just started out, and well after 4 evaluations on blklst, I do feel like I am not going anywhere, my career started not too long ago, so could you maybe refer me some contests, websites, or any other methods which could help really, cuz at this point I don’t want to waste time pursuing that 8 score, cuz I do realise that it’s subjective, I think since a few industry members have downloaded my screenplay after I made some changes in the logline I would just keep hosting as like you said, it’s subjective and u never know so yeah that’s bout it and glad that I found this video
Are you still writing? If so, what?
@@Reggie2000 Yeah I’m still working on the same screenplay, It’s a science fiction. It’s been honestly very hectic to manage once the lockdown ended. Like maintaining attendance, assignments, projects, etc. but I still somehow find time to work on my screenplay as well, And after I decided to not go for blklst, There has been zero direction for me to work with. But I overcame that by rewriting the screenplay in my native language which is hindi. Felt a lot more authentic and got better at understanding my weak segments, after which I decided to rewrite that finished screenplay back in english, which is what I’m currently doing. But hey man, thanks for asking that question, It has been so long since I started when I was like 17 and I totally forgot I even ever commented this. Watching your story in your head for like infinite times going through the same screenplay does get boring… Hope I make it one day🤞🏼
@WaseemKhan-kv4cs
My best pieces of advice.
One, in the long run, write speculation screenplays fast. You're not being paid, so why spend years on something that might never sale, instead of rushing something that might never sale. They're gonna rewrite it anyways, guaranteed.
Two, open big. Even if it's wrong. Screenplay readers give you at best, two scenes to grab their attention. They can always cut the big opening. But you 100% need a big opening to sale your screenplay. Especially sci-fi.
Three, you have a better chance if a sci-fi book becoming a film, then a sci-fi screenplay alone. Hollywood loves books. And if it's also YA (young adult), so much the better. But definitely consider making it into a book if it doesn't sale.
Good luck!!! 👍
@@Reggie2000 Thank you so much for the advice.. I already open quite big- it’s literally an explosion leading to a gunfight to a car chase chaos over a suitcase accidentally containing a portal to a parallel universe which is also revealed by the 10nth or so page. And also my protagonist is a 12 year old who just happens to pick up the suitcase on his way back home, becoming the part of the chaos.
Readers who evaluated the screenplay have never held back from expressing how good the concept and action is, And how the screenplay can cater to a wide swath of mainstream market place as the audience is across the age spectrum. Honestly what seemed to be lacking was my writing skills and my ability to express myself. As I just started out back then my level of English, was just not cinematic enough and there was no flow. So Reading was not a good experience.
I have improved considerably since then, At the time I also wrote to Dominic Morgan- "Scriptfella", which is his youtube name, And he advised me that I was very young and that writing is a craft which I should focus on developing before spending any more money on it. And I guess that is what I have been doing since then. But thank you again for reaching out and for your valuable advice- The reason I am writing this is not because I love writing but because I want to bring this story, my story on screen someday and I also want to act a side role just to be a part of this crazy universe.
Edit: I still don’t know any other way (other than blklst) of breaking into the industry from being way out here😂, so I don’t know how I’m gonna make it happen but I’ll find a way:)
@WaseemKhan-kv4cs BOOK! You can't control the screenplay game when you're young and starting out. UNLESS, you actually move to Hollywood, and start working on Indie films for free to make contacts. But you can write a book and try to get it published. I'm completely serious when I say that it's an insider secret that the best way to get a screenplay sold, is to write it into a book.
I wish you the best of luck. 👍
The laugh is funny 😂😂😂
righton bro
What I wonder with The Blacklist is - who is reviewing and reading? Are these people in the business? Is it some dude who also works at Mickey Ds part time and has a GED?
Right! Great questions that need answers. You should check out my buddy Jayson’s videos on the Black List. He did a whole series and he’s asking the same kinds of questions.
ua-cam.com/video/PoTObMYEaFY/v-deo.html
Screenwriting is not traditional writing, unfortunately there are no paths for learning yet. Just Utubers selling out on it. Fortunately Black list seems at least something. ❤
My sense is it is primarily a business model that serves the business, not the writers. Evaluations are always fake, because they want you to keep using them, but that is typical of other coverage services, not just the black list. If you know you have something solid, you don't need to pay to have someone tell that. You just have to get your script to the right producer.
I agree to an extent. I believe it depends on the evaluation service and the promises/guarantees they make. For example, a site like the Black List comes with certain expectations and promises if you get a certain score; but another service like WeScreenplay doesn't make those promises, so it feels (to me) less like a racket.
My problem is that I don't know how to reach out to those producers, and when you find one they, usually, don't read your screenplay, so is kind of a big problem.
@@ibai710 you're right. They won't read your actually screenplay unless they like the log line or teaser or synopsis, but it's not easy. I feel like most just stick to the people they've worked with over the years and don't even open strange emails. Other ways are to hire a Lawyer who will get your stuff in front of producers, but of course it's not cheap. Or you can try to get a Manager, which I discovered is like looking for a needle in a haystack.
@@gianthillsYeah, is difficult, I wanna try to make a career though. I’ve never submitted a screenplay to BL so I guess I would try soon, of course, having the knowledge that my screenplay is good. I should make some rewritings first. But I’m confident and hopeful so I think that I can achieve something( at least a manager or an agent XD) Thanks for your message
@@ibai710 Excellent. The rewrites and revisions can seem endless. Cut out everything you don't absolutely need and make sure the genre isn't confused. Another thing to consider is that you can write something very solid, but some organizations will judge your writing through a political or cultural lens.
If Hollywood really knew what made a successful script, none of the Friedberg/Setzer movies would have been made, essentially killing an entire genre.
Can you put your book for a screenplay on the blacklist
Not sure what you're asking here. The Black List is strictly for screenplays, not books. But if I adapted one of my books into a screenplay, then I could submit it to the Black List. Hope that answers your question. ☺
I’m about to post on the black list, I think just one month is enough to see if I can get some feedback, I write only because I enjoy it, not trying for a career but it would be eye opening to get feedback in case I’m super great,…or super awful, life’s a life.
Hey, I hear you. Go for it. I think that ultimately the feedback will be helpful, or at least give you an idea of where you are as a writer. Here’s hoping you get an 8 or higher! 🙌🏾
Why not submit to contest? Or producers on imdb pro?
Who says I haven’t? This video is about my Black List experience.
@@JayFingers cool. Gotcha
@@JayFingers i wrote like 3 comedy features... and one action script.. what would you do? just polish them until i'm ready to submit them?
Honestly, if your material is ready to be read, I’d do what you suggested and hit IMDb Pro and look up producers and managers to query. Find ones who’ve dealt with material similar to yours, craft a dope query letter, and go from there. Contests are cool and all, but IMO unless you place in one of the big ones, they don’t do much for your career.
But if you do think your scripts need more work, sure, keep writing and getting feedback. Coverage services like the Black List and WeScreenplay are very good for that. Also, get feedback from trusted readers you know - honest friends, other writers, etc. Then, once your script is the best it can be, start querying. Best of luck, bro! ✊🏾
The Academy is made up of more than one person. Somebody didn’t vote for Film of the Year.
This is very true. Maybe that's who ended up reading my script. 😭
How much was it
At the time, evaluations were $75, I think, and there was an additional $30 per month charge to host your script on the site in case “industry professionals” wanted to download and read it. I believe prices for evaluations have gone up since then.
It's a great site to let you know if your work is good but I'd rather keep the rights to my IP instead of getting crumbs.
I don’t think they claim the rights to your script/IP, but yeah, the feedback *can* be good. Depends on who your reader is.
Are you still hosting your script on there for 30 bucks?
Oh nooooooo. I stopped paying the hosting fee a looooooong time ago. 😅
@@JayFingers Ok, I'm giving it a shot with a comedy feature of mine. I read a lady kept hers on there for a year, and finally a producer contacted her and made her movie.
Go for it, why not? A writer acquaintance of mine scored a 9 on a recent script, and I’m very sure she’s going to get downloads and reads.
@@JayFingers How long has she had her script posted there?
You guy's aren't afraid to have your concepts stolen?
No.
WGA
That’s certainly one way to protect your work.
Waste of time. Don't revise unless it has been optioned or sold. You will be spinning your wheels. This industry got writers spinning their wheels all the time.
Scam
😅🤷🏾♂️
😅🤷🏾♂️
Stop laughing all the time bruh, got so annoying
Cope.
@@JayFingers I love your laugh!
At first it was a good idea. Help aspiring screen writers to get access to film and television and cable executives, but now Leonard Franklin has seen this site develop into a money-making web site that could support him and possibly make him rich. I saw this coming. I don't enter or submit my screenplays to any contest or website. Do you know how many script ideas are stolen, changed somewhat and made into movies? A lot! The best way to bring attention to your screenplay is to network with other writers who have had a script produced and ask them what the best route is to take for your story. Many successful writers are not interested in stealing your story; they have too many ideas of their own to develop. If you can get your screenplay (once it's perfected and can be submitted to an actor) to an established star; via a friend who knows someone, etc. Your chances are better than submitting your story blindly to an online website that's only interested in your submission money. There are contests that are reputable for submission; The Austin Film Festival (in Texas), Writer's Guild of America, etc. There's one more, Nicholl Fellow Ship. These are the most-worthy of contests. Screenwriting contests are a big risk, both financially and emotionally. Good luck and please pass this information on to your viewers. Be careful.
Agreed. 💯 percent.
How do you even find these people and build relationships with them?