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What's the difference between ScriptCrawler Coverage and other coverage services?
Our readers provide analysis for major studios, production companies and "Big 3" agencies, as well as other online coverage services. In other words, there is no difference in the quality of the coverage you'll receive -- only a difference in price and turnaround time.
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Why does ScriptCrawler's Coverage cost so much less than the competition?
Most other coverage websites are run by larger companies, which pay the readers a small fee and pocket the rest. ScriptCrawler is run by the readers themselves, so you're not paying for someone's office expenses, building rental fees, or sending cash into the pockets of some third party. You're dealing directly with the readers, so there's no middle man to raise the cost.
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Why are the names of the readers not publicized?
All ScriptCrawler story analysts are employed with agencies, production companies and studios, which require them to sign confidentiality agreements. Unlike other coverage websites, though, our readers don't merely have "past experience," but current experience as well. Our readers work for agencies including ICM and CAA, and production companies and studios including Gold Circle Films, Cartoon Network, Overture, Anchor Bay Films, and Disney.
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What's the difference between "Standard Coverage" and "Extended Comments Coverage"?
Standard Coverage reflects the industry format, which features a 1-page synopsis of the story, and a 2-3 page summary of comments. This template is ideal for agents and executives who don't have time to read dozens of scripts, and prefer a brief overview. For the aspiring professional writer, however, Extended Comments Coverage provides 4-5 full pages of comments, in place of a synopsis of the story. If you prefer more comments and notes about your script, this would be the way to go. There is no price difference between Standard and Extended Comments Coverage.
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Why would I want a summary of my own script?
Some writers find a reader's synopsis helpful in determining what stands out in their story. But if your primary goal is to obtain professional notes and revise your script, Extended Comments offers a more detailed critical overview.
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What are the benefits of Page-by-Page Coverage?
This extensive developmental coverage will not only provide you with overall comments, but offers specific notes on dialogue, subtext, scene construction, etc. With a complete list of page-by-page notes, it's the best way to get a sense of what is and is not working in your script, down to each line of dialogue and description. This service is a play-by-play of the reader's reaction to the intricacies of your script, and will give you a sense of how a studio executive might respond to your work as he or she reads it.
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What happens if my coverage receives a CONSIDER or RECOMMEND?
If your script receives a CONSIDER, you are entitled to a free 30-minute phone consultation with your analyst. This will enable you to ask your analyst specific questions about the coverage, and hammer out potential story solutions that will hopefully take your script to the next level. (If your script does not receive a Consider, you can still request a phone consultation for an additional fee.)
If your script receives a RECOMMEND, you will receive another 30-minute consultation with your analyst, this time to discuss potential marketing strategies. No coverage site can guarantee that your script will sell or that you'll get an agent or have a dump truck full of money delivered to your front door. But what ScriptCrawler can guarantee is that your analyst will distribute your script to his or her contacts, and keep you updated with weekly emails about its status.
The benefit of working with ScriptCrawler is that you're dealing with current industry professionals who know the ins and outs of story departments across Hollywood. Again, no one can guarantee that your script will sell, but if your coverage receives a RECOMMEND, ScriptCrawler can make sure it reaches the people who make those decisions.
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Do you accept TV scripts, stage plays, short films or treatments?
Yes. As long as your script is written in the appropriate format and runs no longer than 130 pages, it is eligible for any of the coverage services. Treatment analysis and other consultation services are also available - information upon request.
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What if I don't agree with my story notes?
The most important part of writing is re-writing, and that includes being open to new ideas and constructive criticism. ScriptCrawler's coverage is designed to give writers an idea of how their script might fare in the marketplace. Story analysts are hired by agencies and studios to give their opinion of a script's strengths and weaknesses, and will assess your script the same way. In other words, if you want a glowing review, send the script to Mom. But when you're ready for honest, detailed, real-world story notes that will aid you in polishing your screenplay, ScriptCrawler can help.
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Will the coverage be as snarky as that comment about my Mom?
No. The coverage will clarify what requires more attention, point out areas of inconsistency and confusion, and suggest ways to improve your story. Our readers are open-minded to stories of varying genres and themes, but value quality writing above all else. And no offense to Mom.
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Why do I need to read and approve a release form before submitting?
Any reputable production company, agency, or studio requires a signed release form before accepting any submission. While it's not required to receive coverage, ScriptCrawler strongly recommends that you register your script with the
Writers Guild of America or the
U.S. Copyright Office to ensure that your material is protected.
