#script coverage

A major skill that companies look for in interns and assistants is the ability to read scripts and write coverage. The problem is, there aren’t many ways to learn how to write it, even in film school. So, for those interested, I will be running a short class on script coverage this upcoming June/July.

It will function much like a weekly class and will last roughly 2-4 weeks. We will meet using the Coffee Shop Critique’s server on discord, where there will be a channel dedicated to the class. The first meeting will consist of learning what what script coverage is, how it’s used, and how to write it. You’ll be able to ask questions and see templates and examples. At the end, you will be given a script to cover for the week. A week later, we will meet again, review the coverage, see where we can improve, and talk a bit more about the business side of things.

Just as a heads up: I read and give detailed professional feedback on screenplays significantly cheaper than you'll find coverage on big pro reader sites.

While full coverage can run you $150+ easily for one script, I read scripts for just $15 a piece for features or TV pilots (webseries and short films are only $10). Included in your purchase are a numerical score 1-10, logline, synopsis, a list of strengths and weaknesses, and up to five pages of detailed feedback on your script overall!

As a little background on myself and my qualifications, I have been writing screenplays for five years, and I have two years of professionally reading them (first for a producer looking for scripts to produce, and now for the Atlanta Film Festival) and my feedback can get you a sneak peek at what a reader for a festival or competition might be thinking of your script in its present state. I make notes covering everything from pacing, to characters, to grammar and spelling, and everything in between.

Hey FILMBLR!  I’m offering some excellently inexpensive prices for industry-standard script coverage over on Fiverr!

This is a great way to get a read on your screenplay, video script, or short film prior to sending it out to contests, producers, or even as a way to make sure your script is reader-ready before shelling out the cash for professional-level coverage. 

Because of the low prices, (professional coverage can cost hundreds of dollars!) it’s a perfect option for students and recent grads. I love working with screenwriters at any stage of their process, and I have a lot of experience moderating writer critique groups, both online and in person. My work has been recognized by Screencraft and Scriptapalooza, among others, and I’ve been a guest judge for BlackShirtReads... and I figured I could offer my insights on a larger scale at a point in my life where working on film sets makes steady income difficult to come by.

like, sometimes it’s not even relevant to the script. the writer of one just decided to put in a little rant against transgender people while chucking in some slurs for emphasis. 

it serves no point to the plot. it’s not used to show a character as ‘bad’ or lead to redemption or anything. 

Hello my lovely filmmakers! We have an itinerary for the script coverage class! It will be a four-week course run via discord through the Coffee Shop Critiques server. Click this link to join the script coverage channel.

There are 2 classes a week that are repeat classes. Come to ONE a week, whichever you are able to join.

Week 1: Monday, June 17th 3pm PST OR Thursday, June 20th 6pm PST

Topics: What is script coverage? What makes a good selling script?

Assigned: unproduced comedy feature

Week 2: Monday, June 24th 3pm PST OR Thursday, June 27th 6pm PST

Topics: Review last week’s coverage. Selling to studios and streaming services

Assigned:  unproduced sci-fi, Russian Doll pilot (tv sitcom)

Week 3: Monday, July 1, 3pm PST OR Friday, June 5th 6pm PST (on account of the 4th of July)

Topics: Networks and the TV hierarchy

Assigned: unproduced biopic, unproduced superhero tv drama

Week 4: Monday, July 8th 3pm PST OR Thursday, July 11th 6pm PST

Topics: What are development notes?

Assigned: (optional, as we aren’t meeting again) Choose a script for development notes. Recommendations given

I tried to accommodate everyone’s schedule, but if these dates don’t work for you, message me and I will see if we can work something out.

Hi Anon!

I think professional feedback is absolutely worth getting, but you shouldn’t submit to contests just for the feedback. It’s a waste of money and the feedback will most likely be script coverage, which can be harsh and demoralizing (and often, not very helpful. I know this because I’ve done coverage myself and know many other analysts. Here is an account from a script analyst who reads for screenwriting contests who’s account is (unfortunately) quite common within the industry. She also provides examples of common critiques that are helpful when analyzing your own script.

One thing the writer in the above blog states is, “Screenplay feedback is most effective when it’s a conversation.” This is very true, which is why it’s better to find individuals, paid or no, who are dedicated to giving you one-on-one feedback on your work. Workshop groups are also very helpful and, if possible you should join at least one, preferably several writing groups (which are free and give you a community to support you).

I know you said you don’t know anyone irl who can offer good critique… I am always happy to read over scripts and give some feedback if you are interested. I have also previously promoted @jellyfishjulie, who offers professional script coverage for a small fee.

If any of my followers are interested in being beta readers/giving feedback to other screenwriters on this site, please comment or reblog. Help Anon out!

Best,