8 Best Ways to Sell Your Screenplay in 2021

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After months of back and forth writing and battling creative blocks, you have finally completed your screenplay! All of that hard work is finally in your hands, finalized. The only thing left to do is selling your screenplay so it can be developed into the masterpiece you envisioned.

Before we get into the selling part, let’s quickly talk about some screenwriting software tools available. This is very essential because before you start marketing your script you need to make sure it meets the industry format of a screenplay and is free of any possible grammatical or spelling errors. 

These software tools eliminate the need for manual formatting and save time. Some of my favorite screenwriting software are:

1. Final Draft– 

This is an award-winning software launched in 1990, used by Oscar-winning screenwriters and writers working for well-known studios. Unfortunately, it’s pretty expensive but it has a 30-day free trial which you can use to your advantage.

2. Celtx- 

This is best for screenwriters, playwrights, and novelists. It helps you turn scattered ideas into full-fledged plans. It has an easy to use interface and is affordable.

3. Trelby- 

Previously known as ‘blyte’, Trelby is perfect for screenwriters on a budget since this software is entirely free.

There are also some great screenwriting courses on Udemy and Coursera by distinguished faculties from some of the best screenwriting schools and programs. 

Now, let’s not waste any more time and get right into the primary reason you clicked on this article. While selling a screenplay is a tough and long process, it’s not impossible. And with the right techniques and connections, it can be achieved.

1. Get a manager while you are working on a script in order to sell your screenplay effectively and have better command on your scripts.

This is optional as not everyone might afford this. But this can be a valuable asset as a manager can help you while you’re working on your script and after when you’re trying to sell it. Managers are likely to have inside contacts and connections which they will use to get your script to the best seller possible.

Manager is also the person who will read your script and give you tips on improving it. A manager generally has 10 to 15 clients at a time which means there’s enough time for him or her to focus on your script. 

Managers are also good at networking within the industry and have people skills. They know how to approach producers, directors and agents to build professional relations with them for the client. 

So if your script is ready to be sold, start searching for a manager on this list of screenwriting managers.

2. Screenwriting Contests

This is a brilliant method to tiptoe your way into Hollywood! You can enter your scripts into various screenwriting contests giving your script exposure and feedback from many people. 

While a lot of contests are springing up like startups these days, you should know which ones are the best for your script genre. A lot of them have extra application fees for script feedback too. On a general note the average fee for applying 3-4 months before the final deadline will cost 40-60 dollars.

These contests have well-known producers and directors on their judges’ panel. So there’s a chance that you might get flown to LA if you win. There are also prizes for runners-up which include sending your script to agents and managers in the industry.

To keep track of the deadlines of the contests, Moviebytes is definitely a site worth bookmarking. 

3. Listing Services Directories 

In this method, you basically have to upload your script on a website and the producers can go onto the website, type in specifications like the genre they are looking for, and directly access your script. The top sites for this are Inktip and The Blacklist. 

Inktip would be favorable if your script is for a low-budget kind of movie, However, if your script needs a big budget, The Blacklist is your place to go. Specs scout is another website you could try out. The success rate for this method is very high!

You can get more websites like these by subscribing to some good screenwriting websites.

4. Pitch Festival

This is a great way to put your face in front of Hollywood, literally! You simply have to enter a timed arrangement where you get 5 minutes to pitch your script to a producer/director and when the time is up, you move on to the next. It is kind of like speed dating. 

The person will call you the next day to tell you if they are interested in your script or not. Some famous pitch festivals are The Great American Pitch Festival, Hollywood Pitch Festival, and Golden Ticket Pitch Festival (which takes place inside the story expo).

Also Read : 18 Best Screenwriting & Filmmaking YouTube Channels

5. Skype Pitches

This is similar to the previous one except you have to pitch your script on Skype which gives you less room to connect with them like you would in person. But here you get more time than 5 minutes. 

The top two sites to go to would be Roadmap Writers and Stage 32 Happy Writers. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking yourself on a video call, these sites have the feature where you can pay a company to send someone to speak on your behalf.

6. Written Pitch

The site Virtual Pitchfest is a great way to get your script some exposure. Here you can handpick certain people that you’re interested in and pay them to read your script, which will get sent to a manager/agent/producer. 

This guarantees that they will read it and also give script feedback within a certain amount of time. You can get good package deals on the site for the same. VPF CEO David Zuckerman offers advice on how it works.

7. Coverage services with scouting

Here, instead of paying certain agents or managers to read your script, you pay a well-respected company to have a reader give coverage on your script. And if the coverage is up to a certain point, they will use all their connections and contacts to the industry people and get your script in the right hands. 

There are a range of script coverage services like script doctor and editing, script marketing, etc. These are quite costly if you are a budding writer. Before paying for these making sure you have the perfect draft of your script is essential. 

8. Start Networking

Networking doesn’t always mean adding friends on Facebook and tweeting regularly. Connecting with the right people in the industry can sometimes get you a meeting with a studio executive or a producer. 

Getting on a screenwriting podcast where hosts talk about selling screenplays or invite upcoming writers to share their writing process can help a lot to gain exposure. 

Stage 32 is a site for people in the industry to look out for writers, actors, directors, and people skilled in other crafts. Since Hollywood was shut down during the pandemic in 2020, they generated over 100,000 new members in 8 months.

How to Sell a Screenplay Without an Agent: A Screenwriter’s Guide

When it comes to selling your screenplay, finding an agent is often seen as the first step. However, many screenwriters are able to sell a script without one. If you are looking to sell your first script, there are several strategies you can use. Entering major contests and pitching your original script directly to development executives at production companies are great ways to get noticed. Utilizing free resources like online pitch platforms and connecting with script consultants can also help you navigate the film industry. Remember, having a great script is essential, so make sure your screenplay is polished before you pitch it. Breaking into Hollywood without an agent requires persistence, but it’s definitely possible if you have written an amazing story.

The Importance of Script Consultants in Selling Your First Script

As a screenwriter, selling your first script can be challenging, especially if you’re going to sell a script without prior experience. This is where a script consultant can be invaluable. Script consultants can help you refine your screenplay, ensuring it meets industry standards and is ready for a script sale. They can also guide you on the type of script that might appeal to Hollywood studios and development executives. Whether you’re targeting feature films or other types of scripts, a consultant can provide insights that increase your chances of success. Additionally, they can help you identify and enter major contests, which is another great way to get your screenplay noticed. If you are looking to sell your script in today’s competitive market, working with a script consultant can give you the edge you need to succeed.

Why Entering Contests is Crucial for Selling Your Screenplay

For screenwriters, entering contests is one of the most effective ways to sell a script, especially when you’re selling your first script or looking to break into Hollywood. Major contests provide exposure to industry executives, development executives, and Hollywood studios who are always on the lookout for new and original screenplays. Winning or even placing in a contest can lead to a script sale or help you find an agent to represent you. Contests often attract script consultants who read the scripts, offering valuable feedback to improve your screenplay before pitching it to production companies. If you’re going to sell your screenplay, especially without an agent, contests are a powerful tool that can open doors to the film industry. Make sure the script you submit is polished and aligns with the type of script the contest is looking for. Participating in these competitions can significantly enhance your screenwriting career and increase your chances of selling your screenplay.

How to Sell Your Script in the Film Industry: A Screenwriter’s Guide

 For any screenwriter looking to sell a script in the film industry, understanding the process is crucial. Whether you have written a spec script or an original screenplay, finding an agent or manager is often the first step to getting your script to Hollywood. However, if you are looking to sell one without representation, you can leverage free resources like online pitch platforms or submit your screenplay directly to the Blacklist, where industry executives are actively reading scripts. To increase your chances of selling your screenplays, ensure you write a script that tells a compelling story and realize that persistence is key when navigating the film industry.

 The Role of Online Pitch Platforms in Selling Your Screenplay

In today’s digital age, screenwriters have more opportunities than ever to sell scripts through online pitch platforms. If you are looking to sell your script but haven’t yet found an agent or manager, these platforms offer a way to get your screenplay directly in front of industry professionals. After you have written your screenplay, it’s essential to make sure it’s polished and ready for submission. Using online resources like the Blacklist can also increase your visibility, as industry executives and managers frequently read the scripts posted there. Realize that selling your screenplays may take time, but by utilizing these tools, you can improve your chances of breaking into the film industry.

How to Sell a Script as a Screenwriter: From Finding an Agent to Script to Bollywood

As a screenwriter looking to sell scripts, whether it’s a spec script or something more tailored, finding an agent or manager is crucial. If you are looking to get an agent, free resources like the Blacklist can help showcase the script you have written to the right people in the industry. For those aiming to sell a script to Bollywood, leveraging online platforms and resources is key to making the right connections.

Conclusion

I hope these selling ways work for you. However, you can also start reading screenwriting books because there’s always more to learn! Some of these books have tips on selling screenplays, too. 

Screenwriters do earn a lot of money once they are quite well known within the community. So if you put in the dedication required to write and sell, screenwriting is definitely worth the effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I sell my screenplay to production companies or independent producers?

Ans.  To sell your screenplay to production companies or independent producers, you need to craft a strong query letter, develop a compelling synopsis, and target the right companies. Networking at industry events and film festivals can also help you sell your script directly to the right people.

2. Do I need an agent to sell my script in today’s market?

 Ans. While having an agent can greatly increase your chances of selling your script, it’s not always necessary. Many writers successfully sell their scripts through cold querying, online resources, and direct connections within the film industry.

3. How can first-time writers sell their first screenplay?

 Ans.  First-time writers can sell their first screenplay by focusing on industry standards, entering contests, and making connections at industry events. It’s also crucial to have a polished script and a well-written query letter to attract interest.

4. What are the industry standards for writing a spec script?

 Ans.  Industry standards for a spec script include a solid structure, clear formatting, and an original story that fits within the expectations of the genre. Ensuring your script meets these standards is key when you want to sell your screenplay.

5. How can screenwriters sell scripts without prior experience?

Ans.  New writers can sell scripts without prior experience by leveraging online resources, participating in screenwriting contests, and utilizing cold query emails to get their work in front of executives and independent producers.

6. What role does a query letter play in selling your screenplay?

Ans. A query letter is crucial in selling your screenplay as it introduces your script to agents, producers, and executives. A strong query letter should highlight your script’s unique aspects and entice the reader to request your screenplay.

7. What are the best industry events for making connections to sell your script?

Ans.  Industry events like film festivals, script development workshops, and pitch sessions are ideal for making connections that can help you sell your script. These events allow you to meet executives, agents, and producers directly.

8. How can online resources help you sell your screenplay?

Ans.  Online resources such as the Hollywood Creative Directory, Blacklist, and various screenwriting forums can help you sell your screenplay by providing platforms to connect with industry professionals and showcase your work.

9. What should you include in a synopsis to sell your original screenplay?

 Ans.  A synopsis should include the core plot, main characters, and key themes of your screenplay. It should be concise yet compelling enough to make executives or producers want to read the full script.

10. Can cold query emails help you sell selling your script to Hollywood?

Ans.  Cold query emails can be effective in selling your script to Hollywood if they are well-crafted and targeted. Your email should include a brief but engaging pitch, a strong logline, and a request to read your script.

11. How can first-time writers improve their pitching skills to sell their movie script?

 Ans.   First-time writers can improve their pitching skills by practicing their pitch, studying successful pitches, and participating in pitch events. Good pitching skills can significantly increase your chances of selling your movie script.

12. What are the key steps to selling your first screenplay in today’s market?

Ans.  The key steps to selling your first screenplay include writing a standout script, creating a strong query letter, building a network through industry events, and utilizing online resources to reach potential buyers in the film industry.