Do you supply coverage or notes? What's the difference?
Coverage is a report generated by studio readers that includes a synopsis and brief notes about your script. Coverage reports include the infamous "pass," "consider," and "recommend" ratings. At The Script Department, we work for you, not a studio or executive. And rather than a mere coverage, we give you honest story notes and analysis that includes ideas and suggestions to take your script to the next level. There are no "passes" at The Script Department - only "needs improvement" - because we believe every writer can improve.
What is your turnaround time? When will I get my notes?
At the Script Department, we pride ourselves on being speedy. Generally, notes are returned to you within 10 working days, although more often than not you will get them in five.
Can I choose my reader?
Absolutely. Click here to read more about each of our analysts. If you don't have a preference, however, your script will be assigned to the first available reader.
What if I need the coverage back fast?
No problem! We offer an express overnight service of $200 for basic coverage if we receive your script by 4pm Pacific Time. You will receive your notes by 10am the following day. All other feature script services that require rush notes are subject to an additional $100 rush fee and will be returned to you within two working days.
How do I use your professional connections?
Should your reader give a recommendation to scout your material based on their analysis, The Script Department will (with your permission, of course) pass your script up the ladder here at The Script Department, where it will be vetted and discussed by Margaux Froley and Julie Gray. If Margaux and Julie both agree with the reader 110%, they will recommend the material to agents and managers who are a part of our professional network. If they are interested, they will contact you to set up a meeting or call. Best of all, this service is completely free.
Can I pay by credit card and submit electronically?
Yes, simply click the "order now" button next to the product you are interested in and select the option you would like.
Can I submit via mail and pay by check?
No. The Script Department accepts only electronic submissions and payments.
What can I expect? Can I see some sample coverages?
Yes. Click below to see samples by genre.
Action (Basic Coverage)
Comedy (Junior Story Notes)
Drama (Basic Coverage Plus)
Fantasy (Junior Story Notes)
Horror (Basic Plus)
Horror (Treatment)
Romantic Comedy (Story Notes)
Sci-Fi (Junior Story Notes)
Thriller (Basic Coverage)
I'm not sure which service is best for me. Can someone help me decide?
Of course! Email info@thescriptdepartment.com and we'll talk you through the process of finding the service that best meets your needs.
Do you accept international submissions?
Bienvenido, benvenuto, bienvenue. The Script Department has clients all over the world.
What type of format should my script or manuscript be in?
Proper formatting is the price of entry for any writer who wants to be taken seriously by a production company or studio. Please submit your script in Final Draft, Movie Magic, or PDF format. If you are serious about pursuing the craft and the career of screenwriting, make an investment in the proper software.
Will my idea be stolen if I submit my script to you?
No! Although the film industry offers no guarantees, studios and production companies have much to lose and little to gain from stealing ideas. These companies would much rather buy a screenplay (a pittance for these billion dollar companies) than risk being sued for millions after making a film. However, The Script Department recommends that all submissions be registered with the Writers Guild of America and/or copyrighted with the U.S. Copyright Office. You can register your work online here: www.wgawregistry.org/webrss/. Or receive information by phone at (323) 782-4540 on the West Coast, (212) 757-4360 on the East Coast.
What about adaptations?
As long as you have the appropriate rights/permissions from the original author, we welcome adapted material. Should you receive a "recommend" and choose to continue through The Script Department matchmaking process, we will ask you to furnish proof of the appropriate rights/permissions.
What kind of material is Hollywood looking for right now?
That's the question that everyone would like an answer to - even industry professionals in Hollywood! Trends come and go but good material always rises to the top. For more tips and hints on spec script writing, browse Julie's blog — Just Effing Entertain Me.
What if I don't agree with my coverage?
At The Script Department, we stand behind every set of script notes that our clients receive. That's because our readers are qualified, experienced, professional individuals who take their jobs seriously and read your script thoroughly.
The ability to handle constructive criticism on your script will make you a better writer and one with whom producers want to work. Receiving notes is part of being a writer. Take what you agree with, toss what you don't agree with, and remember that there is only one master to serve - your story.
If you are unhappy with your notes and can demonstrate for us that we didn't do our job as promised with clear examples, of course we will offer a full or partial refund. If you simply didn't like the notes, consider that a small price to pay as you learn to roll with the punches; notes from us will always be kinder than notes from within the industry.
I like to read scripts. Can I become a script reader for The Script Department?
Our readers are experienced and vetted thoroughly. If you have read for at least two production companies and have a resume that fits our needs, we might ask for some sample coverages. However, we are very picky about who reads for us. Not only is experience a must, our readers must also be kind, encouraging, and articulate. Julie is extraordinarily picky about readers for The Script Department.
Contact us for info about our Script Readers Course.
