Big Break Screenwriting Contest

FAQs

• What is the Diversity category? Is it for scripts about Diversity issues?

  The Diversity category is for scripts written by underrepresented writers. The story itself does not have to be about inclusion or issues of equality. When submitting, you will be asked to select the Diversity category and the actual genre of your script, for example, Diversity – Horror.
  If you are a writer who qualifies for this category you are welcome to submit in both Diversity and non-Diversity categories of the competition. The Diversity category exists to encourage writers who have underrepresented voices in Hollywood to enter the contest. These writers are also welcome to submit their scripts to any of the other categories they are eligible for.

• Would you accept a screenplay that is an adaptation of a published book, where the writer has contractually optioned the movie rights to the book?

  No, the source material for an adaptation must be written by the screenwriter entering the contest, unless the material is listed as being within the public domain. For example, if you have adapted the screenplay from a novel you did not write yourself, we would not accept this screenplay for contest entry. This is to ensure that when a winning screenplay gets to an industry representative, there are no sudden copyright/ownership issues. For more information on what works fall within the public domain, click here.

• Why do you have a Diversity category?

  There is a great demand in the film and television industry for stories from writers from diverse backgrounds. The Diversity category allows us to easily identify these writers for industry professionals.

• Since I shouldn't include my personal information in the body of my script or on the title page, how do I remove or clear the title page?

  For instructions on removing your title page, click here.

• Do I retain the rights to my screenplays after submitting to the Big Break Contest, whether or not I win?

  Yes, you retain all rights until you choose to sell or option your screenplay and/or teleplay.

• Can I submit multiple screenplays and/or teleplays during one contest year?

  Yes, you may enter as many different scripts as you wish. Each script must be submitted as a separate entry.

• Is coverage provided?

  We do not provide coverage for screenplays entered into the contest, however coverage is included as part of the prize package for winning scripts.

• Who will be reading and judging my screenplay?

  Our readers are professional script analysts from diverse backgrounds who carefully evaluate each entry and sign confidentiality agreements to ensure that your work is protected. After screenplays are narrowed to finalists, a panel of notable industry professionals conduct the final judging to determine the winners. These jury members represent award-winning writers, producers, and A-list executives. A current list of our judges can be found here.