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, documentary, or game show ideas). Note too that movie and TV entries compete against one another, so if you aren't sure what medium your idea fits best, that's okay.

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.

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

- Must submit a full story synopsis and logline. This can range from a page in length to a full treatment or pitch deck—entirely up to you on how to best present your idea. We do not necessarily judge on format, we judge on the idea itself. That said, sometimes how you pitch your idea can make all the difference, so take that into consideration. 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:

- Must be for a scripted film or TV series. No reality, documentary, or game show ideas.

- 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 2013) are ineligible.

- Obviously ... the idea needs to be ORIGINAL and not based on an existing franchise or property, unless it's in the public domain.