Script Pipeline's criteria is based primarily on the overall marketability of the concept, preferably hitting a "Goldilocks zone" between commercial/mainstream and something wholly new, relevant, and creative. Although we're strict on judging, we're open to all types of narrative or scripted pitches (no reality or game show ideas).

In the past, selected ideas have ranged from lower-budget indies, to big-budget studio films, animation, true stories, and high-concept genre material. Anything unique and universally appealing is fair game. We highly recommend writers submit more detailed summaries  spotlighting the elements that make your project distinct: why this story, why these themes, and in many cases, why you, the writer, are most apt to develop this type of project. Sell yourself and your script concept.

Only written submissions are accepted, we no longer accept video or other media.

For pitches:

• Must submit a full story synopsis and logline. This can range from a page in length to a full treatment--entirely up to you on how to best present your idea. We do not judge on format, we judge on the idea itself. Supplemental materials (illustrations, etc.) are allowed. The best format is usually comprised of a logline, a page-long summary, and any other comments on the originality of the premise.
• Do not send full-length screenplays--summaries ONLY. Pitches may be emailed direct or uploaded.
• Remove your name and contact information from the documents prior to submitting.
• Longer submissions are judged on the same criteria as short ones, so whatever length you think is best.

General rules:

• Concept must be for a feature-length film or scripted TV series.
• Script Pipeline will not share your idea with anyone unless you’re chosen as a winner or runner-up and give us explicit permission to do so.
• Previous Idea Contest winners and runners-up (since 2012) are ineligible.
• Should go without saying, but the idea needs to be ORIGINAL and not based on an existing franchise or property, unless it's in the public domain. If the idea is in the public domain, it should have some sort of defining factor that takes a distinctive approach and clearly demonstrate how you plan to adapt.

FAQS

HOW DOES THIS WORK? IS THIS THE SAME AS PAYING TO PITCH TO INDUSTRY?

Not to be confused with a "pay-to-pitch" structure, we develop the script with our winners and runners-up before sending to industry. This could take a few weeks, or a few months, or a year. Depends on the writer and the project. But once the script is up-to-speed, we send to select production companies and managers for review.

If the script doesn't land somewhere right away, we keep on hand for industry over the long-term. Additionally, we help in the development of other pitches and scripts for future circulation.

IS MY IDEA PROTECTED? WILL I RETAIN THE RIGHTS TO THE IDEA?

All rights remain with the writer, regardless of the contest results. No one outside of Script Pipeline's team of judges will review your entry without the writer's permission. For the winner, we do not send out their winning idea or script until we have their consent and mutually deem the project "circulation ready."

CAN INTERNATIONAL WRITERS ENTER?

Yes. As with all Pipeline competitions, anyone worldwide can enter.

ARE NOTES INCLUDED?

Written feedback is not included on entries, but entrants may add general notes as an optional service during registration, for a reduced rate. Feedback is kept separate from judging—meaning you'll have a different executive reviewing your contest entry, and the notes have no bearing on the judging process.

View sample here

CAN I COMPETE IN BOTH COMPETITIONS IF MY PITCH COULD BE FOR FILM OR TV?

Yes, but we require two separate registrations and entry fees if you'd like your pitch considered for both contests. We would recommend, however, sending a single pitch for one or the other, film or TV.

HOW SHOULD I FORMAT MY ENTRY?

A full synopsis is required, detailing the story beginning, middle, and end. Can be brief, anywhere from 1-3 pages is typical.

Also remove your name and contact information from the materials prior to submitting.

WILL I BE DISQUALIFIED FOR A FORMATTING REASON?

No. If for some reason we can't open the file, or link, or there's an issue with the entry itself, we'll contact you, and you'll be able to re-send.

CAN I ADD MY NAME ON THE TITLE OR COVER PAGE?

For entrants whose pitch documents have a cover page, please exclude your name and email. Should only be title of the project.

IF I WIN, DO I NEED THE COMPLETED SCREENPLAY OR PILOT?

Not at all. If you do, great, but it won't affect the outcome of the contest. We're just looking for original, unique concepts. Our development team will assist in refining the pitch and helping you get started on the script itself. While that might indicate the competition is open only to screenwriters, it's not: we'll help you develop a first draft of a screenplay or pilot, if the winning entrant decides to write the script.

Contact our contest coordinator with any other questions.