Write of Passage Screenwriting Contest
CALL FOR ENTRIES: 3rd Annual Write of Passage Screenwriting Competition
Top scripts compete for cash, prizes, Hollywood introductions and expert critique from Hollywood insiders.
Selected Scripts are eligible to be produced by veteran producers for the 10th Annual 168 Film Project and may screen at the 168 Film Festival (March 29-31, 2012).
Submissions must be written in 168 hours and will be no longer than 12 pages. They will be based on a foundational scripture and the theme PROMISES, PROMISES.
Entry Deadline: Oct. 10, 2011. Writing week is Oct. 17-24, 2011. Winners will be announced in November 2011.
Entry Fee:
$35 until Aug. 31st
$40 Sept. 1 - Sept. 30
$45 after Sept. 30
$30 168 Members Entry Fee
(Call office for this rate: 818.557.8507)
Click Here To Enter
Interested in being a Development Executive (DE)?
Email: WriteofPassage@168project.com
www.168project.com, 818-557-8507, WriteofPassage@168project.com
Write of Passage Screenwriting Contest: F.A.Q.
The Write of Passage Screenwriting Competition is unique. Writers compete for introductions to and feedback from Hollywood pros and cash. Write of Passage utilizes participants called "Development Executives" (DE's) to judge the first round of the competition. DE's also compete for introductions to Hollywood pros and producer credits. Write of Passage complements the 168 Film Project, allowing the best writers a chance to be seen onscreen. Screenplays should depict authentic characters, not caricatures in redemptive, thought-provoking stories that honor God.
Q: Will the 168 assign specific foundational verses or does the writer choose the verse?
A: 168 supplies the verse based on the same theme that will be used for this year's 168 Film Project.
Q: What kind of stories is the contest looking for? A: As Jesus is our redemption, redemptive stories are ideal, even if it's just a hint of redemption. If you choose to write a tradgedy, then make sure there are real consequences for sin. Winking at or poking fun at hell, taboos and sin is not a good idea for this contest.
Q: Can I write as a team?
A: You can write by yourself or with partners.
Q: How do I interface with my DE, I live in Russia?
A: Your DE may be thousands of miles away and thus, he/she will use email. If possible, teams will meet face-to-face and/or talk by phone. If you live a long distance from each other, you can also use programs like Skype which are free. (www.skype.com)
Q: How many screenplays may I enter?
A: As many as you like, but you must pay one entry fee per script.
Q: What's in it for DEs?
A: DE benefits are: Your name goes in the program book. You are the point person for a new creative community invigorated by your leadership. You learn how to motivate and encourage a creative team to achieve excellence. Your sense of story develops in amazing ways. IF YOUR WRITER WINS: You are introduced as part of the creative team to Producer Ralph Winter (X-MEN). You get an Executive Producer credit if your movie gets made. This is excellent practice for those working towards a career in story development.
Q: Do DE's get free tickets for the 168 Film Festival?
A: Yes. DE's attend the 168 Film Festival on us and get VIP treatment.
Q: What's in it for writers?
A: The winner gets the cash and a meeting with Producer Ralph Winter (X-MEN), VIP treatment and Awards. Top 3 writers get Awards and feedback from Hollywood Pros. Regional Finalists and Finalists are named in the 168 Film Festival Program Book. Your script rating helps in marketing you. If produced, you will get a writing credit and input on rewrites for the film.
Q: Do Write of Passage films compete with "168" entries?
A: No. They'll be screened in the Write of Passage Spotlight. They may compete with each other.
Q: Can writers just submit scripts to the 168 Office?
A: No, you must work through your DE.
Q: What if I don't like the DE who is assigned to me?
A: We will not reassign writers unless there is an extreme situation. It's an important skill to learn to be flexible and be able to work with all sorts of people.
Q: Do I have to make all the changes my DE suggests?
A: No, they are just there to help and suggest. You are in control of your script, so in the end write the script you want to make. But remember, the DE will also judge the first round. As a writer, you will learn that sometimes a client or producer will ask you to make changes that you think are detrimental. Choose your battles wisely.
Q: How many scripts will be made into short films at the 168 Film Project?
A: We don’t know. Money is usually the limiting factor.
Q: How important is it for me to integrate the theme and verse into the script?
A: Very important. Finalists WILL have good “scriptural integration”.
Q: Can I submit a script I've already written?
A: No. This is a speed screenwriting competition. Everyone writes with the same restrictions.
Q: What are the steps in the contest? Give me an overview.
1. Potential DE's apply for the Development Executive position.
2. Writers pay fee ($30 for 168 members) & enter contact info on the web (www.168project.com).
3. You will get a confirmation.
4. Assignment of Development Executive (DE).
5. Your verse is sent Oct. 17 at 5pm PT. ONLY THEN can you begin writing.
6. You will send drafts to the DE for critique per your agreed schedule.
7. The DE judges and sends entries to the finals in L.A.
8. Finalists are judged and announced in November 2011.
9. The best scripts are available to be produced.
10. Write of Passage Spotlight Screenings at the 168 Film Festival, March 29-31, 2012
