Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why should I enter my screenplay in The Screenplay Shootout?
A: Dedicated to the screenwriter community The Screenplay Shootout is focused on seeking out undiscovered screenwriters, and developing a pipeline between talented screenwriters and the Hollywood film-making community.

Q: Do I surrender ownership or rights to my screenplay by entering the Screenplay Shootout?
A: No, you maintain the rights to your screenplay.

Q: Do you accept all story genres in this competition?
A: We accept and welcome all genres. All scripts will be given equal consideration, whether drama, comedy, horror, westerns, thriller, action, etc. The most important criteria are good writing and a unique, creative voice.

Q: What elements of the script are taken into consideration during the judging?
A: The story, characterization, dialogue, description, clarity and originality are all taken into consideration.

Q: Can I submit more than one script?
A: You can submit as many screenplays as you like, as long you submit an entry form and an application fee for each one.

Q: Can I submit an adaptation of a published novel, short story, etc?
A: You can submit an adaptation as long as you have the legal rights, and your script does not violate any other author’s copyrighted material.

Q: Can I submit a short screenplay?
A: No. The minimum length of eligible screenplays is 80 pages.

Q: If I live outside the United States, am I still eligible?
A: Absolutely. Writers who reside outside of the United States are welcome to enter the contest. Entry in the competition is void where prohibited by laws.

Q: How can I protect my screenplay from being stolen or plagiarized?
A: We strongly recommend that you register your script with WGA West (www.wga.org/manual/registration.html) as well as carefully reviewing the rules and regulations section on our website.

Q: How will I find out if I won The Screenplay Shootout?
A: The winners and finalists will be posted on our website and an email will be sent out to all participants notifying them of the Top 40 Semi-Finalists and the Top 5 Finalists.

Q: How do I submit a script to The Screenplay Shootout?
A: You can submit a paper copy of your script by mail, or you can enter electronically if your script is in Movie Magic, Final Draft, MS Word or a PDF. To submit your script Online go to submit now for more information.

Q: If I choose to submit a paper copy where do I mail my submission?
A: Paper copy submission should be sent to:

* All paper copy submissions must be accompanied with a copy of the submission form and payment by a Check or Money Order payable in U.S. funds payable to: Hangman Productions. For more information see submit now.

Q: How will I know you received my submission?
A: If you are submitting your script by mail and you would like confirmation that we’ve received it, please include a self-addressed stamped postcard with your entry. If you are submitting your script Online, you will receive an email confirming that your script has been received.

Q: When is the submission deadline?

* Entries must be postmarked or transmitted electronically on or before midnight Pacific Time on the Early, Regular, Late or WAB Extended Deadline in order to qualify for that submission rate. Any entries postmarked or transmitted after Deadline will be disqualified.

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