What is special about the Finish Line Script Competition?
The most special aspect of this competition is that the writer can re-enter their script after having completed any number of rewrites. They can receive comprehensive (6+ pages) of notes provided by a top-notch, experienced script consultant.. We have set up the competition to follow the development process where a script is submitted, receives extensive story notes, is then rewritten and resubmitted until it is in it’s best form.

We want the writer to have the best script possible by the time the winner is chosen. We want to HELP you win this competition and entrants can work closely with a script consultant to get them through to the finish line!

Can you explain the consultation and re-submission process more clearly?
Yes! Firstly, this process is the main reason we created this competition. We want you to have the chance to use our script consultants expert feedback to help you rework your script and resubmit it so it has the best chance possible to win The Finish Line Script Competition.

You can get a comprehensive set of consultation notes (from the same script consultant throughout the process, just as though you were getting notes from a producer) as many times as you like until the submission period ends. Every time you acquire new notes it will take your script consultant up to one week to deliver them to you.

After semi-finalists are announced, those still in the competition can continue to acquire consultations as many times as they like until the semi-final period ends and the final scripts are chosen to go on to the judges to determine the Grand Prize Winner, First Runner Up and Second Runner Up.

Do I have a better chance of winning if I work with one of your script consultants?
The best chance of winning is by submitting the best script possible. There is no guarantee that a winner will be chosen from those who use our script consultant’s but we believe their experience can only help improve your script and your chances to win should you take advantage of their expertise. Ultimately, the writing is up to you but we will help you get your script ready to be shown to managers, agents, producers and executives. Your script will leave this competition in better shape than when it came in.

Do I have to use your script consultants to enter the competition?
No. You can enter by paying the basic entry fee, which doesn’t include consultation or resubmission. However we do offer special rates for script consulting services and resubmission so it may be worth your while to see if we can help you! However, no notes or resubmission are required, just available, and you can choose to take advantage of this service at any time you wish.

Readers, Judges and Judging Criteria
What genres will you accept?
We accept ALL genres except erotica. We are looking for the best writer out there with the best written script.

What happens to the entries? How does the competition unfold?
If you enter the competition without choosing script consultation, notes and resubmission, your script will be read by our top readers when it is received and will then be given a score based on overall story/character/writing factors. Two readers will read each script and the average of the scores will be logged into our database.

If you have purchased consultation notes, those notes will be written within a week of your submission and sent back to you. You can then resubmit your new draft as soon as its ready and then either receive more notes or make that resubmission your final entry. This must be done by August 22nd. You may use your script consultant for notes, new drafts and resubmissions as many times as you like before the deadline.

After the semi-finalists are announced, they may receive script consultation notes until they must enter their final script submission. 

Can I receive a discount if I use my script consultant more than once?
Yes. If you purchase more than one script consultation (i.e. you work on more than one draft with us) you will receive a 10% discount beyond the first draft.

Who reads my script if I make it into the final round?
Three industry judges (TBA) will break down the final three scripts to find the Finish Line Screenplay Competition Grand Prize Winner. This choice is made without input from anyone who is involved in the administration or the earlier reading of the script. The final judges are producers, writers, agents and managers whose job it is to know good writing and we trust they will find the best of the bunch! In addition to the Grand Prize Winner, the judges will also choose the First and Second Runners Up.

Entry
What do I need to do to enter the competition?
You need to submit an original feature film screenplay or television pilot in PDF format, a completed online application form and an entry fee (amount varies depending on when you enter and what services you choose, see prices on our pricing page).

Can I enter more than one script into the Finish Line Script Competition?
Yes. You can enter as many screenplays or pilots as you wish. Each entry requires a separate online application form and entry fee.
Note: If you write as a team, only one application is needed, listing the two of you as writers of the script.

Where does the entry fee money go?
The entry fees go towards reading costs, administration costs and a portion of one of the prizes, a charitable donation that is made up of a percentage of money made through submissions.

How do I know my script has been received?
You will receive an email receipt once your script and application have been submitted and paid for. This is a guarantee that your script has been received.

Do you have any tips regarding the online process?
Read the rules before filling out the form. Please don’t misspell anything that prevents us from getting in touch with you.  Add info@finishlinescriptcomp.com to your e-mail address book.

How large a PDF can I send?
The PDF file can be no larger than 1.0 MB.