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REGISTER HERE The 6th Annual First Look Project fulfills the requests of studios, production companies, agencies, and ...
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*SINCE JANUARY 2017: 10 writers have found representation and had their scripts optioned as a ...
Every time Script Pipeline announces contest winners and finalists, I put those scripts at the top of my reading list. It's one of the most well-respected contests around--the entire team does such an impressive job.
Andrew Kersey, Manager (Kersey Management)
I can't thank Script Pipeline enough for all the hard work put into this competition, and into the followups from it. I only have a manager right now because of the work that you do.
Tyler Theofilos, Screenwriting Contest Finalist
Less than a week after the competition was over, I scored a meeting with Andrew Kersey for my finalist script. We hit it off right away, and I am now signed with a smart and talented manager who takes this industry and my writing seriously. For someone like me from a no-name town, who doesn't have any contacts, this is a huge opportunity. I can't thank Script Pipeline enough for their dedication and the exposure they are able to provide for writers.
Charles Stulck, Screenwriting Contest Finalist
Script Pipeline’s First Look Project was an awesome experience. From our first phone call, they became our personal champions and proceeded to surprise us again and again with the extent of their support. Thanks to them, we had meetings with a manager and production companies and are now developing our pilot with Mandalay Entertainment. Entering this contest moved our careers forward in an unprecedented way and was the smartest thing we did all year!
Ben and Tyler Soper, First Look Project Winners (The Devil in Evelyn)
Winning Script Pipeline's First Look Project and being a finalist in their TV writing competition has been a huge boost to my career. The Script Pipeline staff goes the extra mile promoting and championing their winners' work and have gotten me opportunities I would never have been able to get on my own. It's wonderful being a part of the Script Pipeline family, and I am proud to be counted as one of their winners.
Diana Wright, First Look Project Winner
I can't say enough good things about Script Pipeline. It's a contest that truly cares about the writer. When you are a winner or finalist, you really feel like you joined a special tribe or family. They are supportive and very meticulous about the scripts they select. If you only can enter a few contests, make Script Pipeline one of them.
Colin Costello, Screenwriting Contest Finalist and "Recommend"
The best part of being a contest finalist is what happens after--getting read by industry members I couldn't access on my own, feedback on future projects, and a priceless ongoing mentorship.
Romi Moondi, Screenwriting Contest Finalist and "Recommend"
We are thrilled to be working with the whole team at Script Pipeline. They have quickly proven to be an extremely valuable resource for solid material and incredible writers. While these two projects could not be more different from one another, they meet the standard of quality, entertainment value, and unique voice that we at BGO are looking for.
Susan Ferris, CEO Bohemia Group Originals (BGO)
My advice to aspiring writers is to keep getting (and incorporating) Script Pipeline Development Notes on the same script until it earns a Recommend. Why? Because there are certain techniques that won’t make sense until your writing skills and the script itself reach a certain level. I did this with 2011 Script Pipeline finalist screenplay Diamond Payback, and it was the best screenwriting “course” I ever took.
Craig Weeden ("Painkiller Jane"), Screenwriting Contest Finalist
I was a finalist in the Script Pipeline Screenplay Competition and attended their writer/industry event. [Director of Development] Matt Misetich steered me toward Jay Silverman and Bethany Cerrona, saying they would appreciate my work (Off the Menu)--and they did! A year later, Jay, my director, wrapped a warm and funny film, and it came about 100% due to Script Pipeline.
Jen Goldson, Screenwriting Contest Finalist (egbok, Galileo)
No one has done more for our screenplay [Prom Queen] and our writing career than Script Pipeline. They've worked tirelessly in connecting us to industry professionals over the course of six years, ultimately resulting in our script getting optioned.
Debbie Chesebro & Tyson FitzGerald, Screenwriting Contest Winners (Prom Queen)
Andrew Martin Robinson [2016 Script Pipeline Screenwriting Contest finalist] is a super talented scriptwriter. He really understands the horror genre and his finalist script scared the sh*t out of me. I'm excited to be managing him--his writing reminds me of my favorite genre filmmakers.
Peter Katz, CEO Story Driven
Script Pipeline's care and attention for their finalists is unparalleled. Their network is vast and their reputation stellar. Thanks to Script Pipeline, less than two weeks after the end of the contest, I signed with a manager. I couldn't be more grateful for all they've done to advance my writing career.
Andrew Martin Robinson, Screenwriting Contest Finalist (Cut Its Head Off)
My idea led to a messy first draft with loads of promise. But now, by way of a systematic scene-by-scene approach, Script Pipeline is helping me tweak that draft toward its fullest potential.
Jason Vaughn, Great Movie Idea Winner (Interlopers)
I've been amazed at the quality and depth of the development my idea has received since winning the Great TV Idea Contest. I know my concept in a richer, deeper way than I did before thanks to Script Pipeline.
Bryce McLellan, Great TV Show Idea Winner (Verge)
In the few days after the competition announcement, we had a slew of terrific meetings. . . . Script Pipeline was a gift from the gods: it allowed us, two unknowns from Australia, to come to LA, meet people in the industry, and begin relationships.
Penelope Chai and Matteo Bernardini, Screenwriting Contest Winner (Cinderella Must Die)
Script Pipeline has such a strong reputation for fostering writers, for thoughtful, constructive feedback, and for its career guidance, Kay and I knew we wanted to throw our hat in that fantastic ring. Hollywood is a rollercoaster, but it's incredible to have people like Matt Misetich [Script Pipeline's Senior Executive] and the rest of the Script Pipeline family helping you to see the tracks.
Elizabeth Dahl, TV Writing Contest Winner (40 Elephants)
The dedicated Script Pipeline staff root for you and your writing career every step of the way. They champion your work and sing its praises to exciting industry contacts. I've never been so honored to win a contest and will carry this achievement to push me through those tougher days of writing.
Kay Tuxford, TV Writing Contest Winner (40 Elephants)
Amazing to see the top two [2016 competition] TV scripts written by women and starring female characters. Thank you, Script Pipeline, for championing our voices and sharing our stories with the industry.
Laura Bensick, TV Writing Contest Runner-up
Participating in Script Pipeline has been truly amazing for us and we are honored and thrilled to have won. . . . If you’re an emerging writer with a script you believe in, Script Pipeline is a perfect way to finally get it out into the world.
Greg Martin & Eric Beu, TV Writing Contest Winners
Script Pipeline was actually something a friend (who's very high up in the industry) introduced me to, and having her recommend it speaks volumes about how highly regarded a contest it is, even within the upper echelon.
Henry Dunham, Screenwriting Contest Winner
There is no better place for writers than with Script Pipeline. Their attention and assistance on helping me guide my career is invaluable.
Nir Paniry, Screenwriting Contest Runner-up
When I relocated from NYC to LA to pursue sitcom writing, everyone I met in the industry said it wasn’t about entering competitions, it was about entering the right competition. Script Pipeline was a turning point.
Howard Jordan Jr., TV Writing Contest Runner-up
Script Pipeline helped me develop my pilot, found me representation, and played a key role in getting a very ambitious TV project to some of the top producers, showrunners, and even networks. Their continual support and guidance has been invaluable--they are second to none.
Kevin Jones, TV Show Idea Contest Winner / 2-Time Script Pipeline Screenwriting Finalist
I cannot overstate the impact that Script Pipeline has had on my writing career. Winning the contest directly led to my new representation, which in turn led to working with studios such as 20th Century Fox.
Tripper Clancy, Screenwriting Contest Winner
The team at Script Pipeline has been and continues to be immensely supportive of my writing career, and has genuinely made me feel like I’m part of a writing community committed to helping everyone get one step closer to living their dreams.
Josh Chesler, Screenwriting Contest Finalist
We've had a great experience working with several writers discovered by Script Pipeline. They have been a tremendous resource for our production company to find new, fresh voices.
Marty Berneman and Stephanie Varella (Off the Grid Entertainment)
Script Pipeline has been a trusted and valuable resource for screenwriters seeking in-roads to the industry. Their staff is dedicated to finding talented writers and building careers.
Shelly Mellott (Final Draft)
Script Pipeline took a chance on an idiosyncratic script, and it quickly became apparent they had given my work thoughtful consideration. I'm honored to be associated with them.
Morgan von Ancken, Screenwriting Contest Winner (Cutting Numbers)
In a vast sea of screenwriting competitions, Script Pipeline goes above and beyond. They don't view you as just another entrant, but a real person trying to get their voice heard in the industry.
Melanie Schiele, writer/director (Butterfly Children)
The constructive feedback I received allowed me to take my script (Strength and Honour) to another level--the film won over 22 awards worldwide. I would highly recommend Script Pipeline.
Mark Mahon, writer/director (Strength and Honour)
It's a competition that not only promotes creativity, but offers unparalleled support in development.
Kurt Conety, Great Movie Idea Contest Winner (Unwritten)
My recognition from Script Pipeline gave me the incentive and confidence to keep pushing my writing career.
Josh Chesler, screenwriter (Chasing Ghosts)
One of the finest contests around. . . a showcase for original, dynamic screenplays.
Haji Outlaw, Screenwriting Contest Runner-Up (Deadmen)
Script Pipeline is one of the best resources available to young writers and filmmakers.
Michael Ohoven, producer (Capote)
I can’t speak highly enough about the Script Pipeline team. The support they provided throughout the evolution of my latest action/comedy screenplay was invaluable. Script Pipeline truly cares about my success, not only promoting my work at every opportunity but also challenging me to push the limits of my skills. Thanks to their efforts, I am now working with a great manager and have an exciting new project on the horizon.
Kristi Hall, First Look Project Winner
Winning the contest has blown open doors with studios, producers, and agencies. Requests for my script have gone through the roof. This experience is literally life-changing, and I will forever be grateful to Script Pipeline.
Tom Krajewski, TV Writing Contest Winner (Supernormal)
This entire experience has given me a tremendous amount of hope. I am truly grateful to Script Pipeline for giving me the opportunity to share my vision with others.
Alex Ross, Screenwriting Contest Winner (Hexen)
Script Pipeline is a great resource for writers who have either won or been runners-up in their contests. They held on to my script and were instrumental in getting it into the hands of producers several years later.
Will Wallace, TV Writing Contest Finalist (Breathers)
Script Pipeline introduced me to a manager and helped launch my professional career as a writer.
Evan Daugherty, Screenwriting Contest Winner (Snow White and the Huntsman, Divergent)
I've personally signed a number of writers from the Script Pipeline competitions, including Evan Daugherty and Tripper Clancy, and immediately review any material they send my way.
Jake Wagner (manager, Benderspink)
Script Sales
Hyde Park Entertainment has picked up Lee Batchler and Janet Scott Batchler's drama spec Jack and Dick. The story will follow John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon's careers as friends and political rivals leading up to their presidential debate. Ashok Amritraj and Alan Gasmer are set to produce. Meanwhile, Warner Bros. is moving forward with Josh L. Gordon's untitled sci-fi/thriller. Set in a near-future world where advances in artificial intelligence are threatening the human race, Gordon's spec follows a young engineer who finds herself involved in a billionaire's plan to alter the fate of humanity. Next up: Tyler MacIntyre and Chris Hill's horror/thriller spec Nightlight has found a home at Columbia Pictures. Nightlight follows a 10-year-old boy who fends off invaders when he's left home alone. Tyler MacIntyre is set to direct as well. Finally, Screen Gems and Royal Viking Entertainment are teaming for Peter A. Dowling's Exposure. His action/thriller spec centers on an African American rookie cop who has to fend for her life after she captures corrupt officers murdering a drug dealer on her body cam.
Other script sales:
- Writers Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers are set to return for the Spider-Man: Homecoming sequel.
- Glenn Ficarra and John Requa are set to write the Harley Quinn and Joker spinoff for DC and Warner Bros. The writing team may also produce and direct.
- Todd Phillips and Scott Silver are set to write an unrelated Joker origin story. Phillips to possibly direct, Martin Scorsese to possibly produce, and Leonardo DiCaprio to possibly star (at least according to rumors).
- Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley to adapt Olivia Koski and Jana Grcevich's illustrated book Vacation Guide to the Solar System for Paramount.
- Geneva Robertson-Dworet will write Captain Marvel for Marvel. Academy Award–winner Brie Larson will star.
- Lionsgate has picked up David Burke's female-led adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray. Annie Clark (aka St. Vincent) will direct.
- And the female-led adaptation of License to Drive is moving forward at Twentieth Century Fox. The script will be written by Alisha Brophy and Scott Miles.
- And finally, Scott McGehee and David Siegel will write and direct that female-led adaptation of Lord of the Flies you've probably heard about on Twitter. This one's at Warner Bros.
The Library – Produced Scripts
Within the last decade, some might argue that comic book movies have become needlessly ubiquitous. Just looking at the major studios' upcoming slates can give the impression that Hollywood is simply in the superhero business, eschewing thoughtful character-driven films for tentpoles that feel almost interchangeable. The fate of the world is in jeopardy, special effects–ridden fight scenes ensue, hero saves the day, see you again next summer. The most successful superhero movies have either bucked that formula or twisted it to provide something fresh (take, for example, Deadpool's meta satire, Wonder Woman's feminist themes, or Logan's gritty western noir), but perhaps, none have done so more successfully than Legion.
Created by Noah Hawley of FX's Fargo and based on Chris Claremont and Bill Sienkiewicz's Marvel character, Legion ostensibly takes place in the X-Men universe, but the series plays more akin to a psychological, almost Lovecraftian or Lynchian horror movie than anything else. Sure, the majority of the characters are similar to the mutants we've grown to love (albeit with quirkier superpowers), but they ultimately take a back seat to the show's namesake David Haller. Portrayed by Dan Stevens, David suffers from a variety of mental illnesses including what seems to be dissociative identity disorder and self-medicates his problems. However, he doesn't realize that he may be, as another character notes, "the most powerful telepath we’ve ever encountered." Worst of all, he can't quite control his powers, making him perhaps the most dangerous mutant in the show, which is why a seemingly evil government organization, a more benevolent collective of mutants, and a mysterious cosmic entity all seem to want to get a hold of him.
Hawley leans heavily on David's delicate mental state to supply most of the show's suspense and horror, and it works on just about every level. The "devil with yellow eyes" and the "angriest boy in the world" continually haunt David's (and the audience's) dreams, and numerous set pieces set inside his past memories help keep audiences on the edge of their seats. At times, this feels less like an X-Men or Marvel show and more like American Horror Story with mutants. But that doesn't mean the show is all horror—David's mental state also allows Hawley quirky indulgences, including a Bollywood dance number in the show's pilot. Basically, Legion walks a very fine line in terms of its tone, but Hawley's writing and Stevens' committed performance help ground the show, at least as much as a show about a psychic, schizophrenic mutant who battles demonic cosmic entities can be grounded.
Beyond David's character, Legion features a stacked supporting cast, including the always brilliant Jean Smart, Bill Irwin and Jermaine Clement in quirky, hilarious, and heartbreaking supporting roles, and Aubrey Plaza, who turns in a bravura performance that the Emmys have somehow chosen to ignore. Also worth noting is the insane production design, which perfectly establishes the show's aesthetic while at the same time keeping its chronological setting ambiguous, much like FX/FXX's animated comedy Archer.
But all in all, it is rare to see a show so assured of its story and tone this early in its run. For comic book fans and non-fans alike, Legion breathes a demented breath of fresh air into a genre that has in some cases become too formulaic in plot. At very least, Twin Peaks just ended again, so you're going to need to fill your time somehow, right?
Read the Legion Pilot
Through annual competitions, Script Pipeline discovers and develops writers of all levels for film and television, connecting them to producers, agents, and managers. Since 1999, several produced films and over $6 million in screenplay and TV pilot spec sales from alumni are credited to Script Pipeline’s unique, intensive process of long-term writer-to-industry facilitation. Contest finalists and winners work with Script Pipeline’s senior executives year-around, getting broader exposure for their work in addition to continuous, one-on-one development assistance.
Recent success stories include competition alum Evan Daugherty selling Snow White and the Huntsman to Universal for $3 million and later taking the lead on studio projects Divergent, Ninja Turtles, and the upcoming Rose Red from Disney and Earthseed from Paramount. Evan was previously attached to write the limited series Esmeralda for ABC Studios, GI Joe 3 for Paramount, an adaptation of Myst for Hulu, and the Tomb Raider reboot. His contest-winning script Killing Season (formerly Shrapnel) was produced and starred Academy Award-winner Robert De Niro and John Travolta.
Tripper Clancy, another former Script Pipeline Screenwriting Contest winner, sold the road comedy The Ambassadors to 20th Century Fox and the pitch Winter Break to QED International, and was previously attached to write the comedy Stranded for Sony. Tripper is currently writing the animated comedy Shedd for Paramount, in addition to Hacker Camp for Hasbro. In April 2016, he sold the spec Stuber to Fox for the mid-six figures, and in May 2017 was brought on board for an adaptation of the bestselling novel The Art of Fielding.
Micah Barnett, whose work was developed through Script Pipeline coverage services, sold The Rabbit to Warner Bros. for six-figures and a TV pilot, Ricochet, to NBC. Screenwriter Brian Watanabe had his Script Pipeline “Recommend” action/comedy, Rogue’s Gallery (later titled Operation: Endgame), also initially developed by Script Pipeline, produced by Michael Ohoven (Capote) and Sean McKittrick (Get Out). The film starred Zach Galifianakis (The Hangover), Adam Scott (Parks and Rec), Jeffrey Tambor (Transparent), Maggie Q, Ellen Barkin, Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul), and an ensemble cast. The Living Wake, Script Pipeline’s first produced film starring Academy Award-nominee Jesse Eisenberg (The Social Network) and comedian Mike O’Connell (Dr. Ken), received high praise when it made its festival debut in 2010.
In October 2017, production will begin on the 2015 Script Pipeline contest-winning screenplay Militia, written by Henry Dunham. Henry will make his directorial debut with the crime/thriller. The film is set to star Jeffrey Dean Morgan (The Walking Dead) and Jack Huston (Boardwalk Empire). Madhouse Entertainment signed Henry a few weeks after he was announced as the winner of the competition, with UTA following suit.
Jen Goldson, another 2015 contest selection, saw her romantic comedy Off the Menu produced in 2016, starring Santino Fontana (Crazy Ex-Girlfriend) and Dania Ramirez (Devious Maids). Jen was introduced to director Jay Silverman at a Script Pipeline event, and the screenplay went into production in less than a year. The film will be released in 2017.
A number of original feature and TV projects are in various stages of development, and well over 100 writers have signed with representation or had their work optioned as a result of facilitation. With Script Pipeline execs actively expanding their industry network on a daily basis, the company is continuously on the hunt for quality material to co-produce or help put into production.
By the end of 2017, it’s estimated that 15,000 screenplays, pilots, and original pitches will have been reviewed through the competitions, making Script Pipeline the leading review outlet for writers worldwide.
*Industry requests to review material from Script Pipeline writers can be made here.
Notable Script Pipeline Alumni | Recent Major Success Stories
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