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SCRIPT: RECOMMEND

WRITER: Only if asked to evaluate.

There are 3 possible responses: Recommend, Maybe (or Consider) & Pass. Outside this class, 90-95% of what you read will be a PASS. When you give a RECOMMEND—that means that you are recommending an executive read the script because it is good. It is often the case that you are torn between two categories. Analysts will then use terminology like: “weak recommend” or “strong maybe” to accurately reflect their conclusion. You might be asked to evaluate the writer. Often times the concept is strong, but the script needs a better writer. Or, this particular story is not for your company, but the writing is really good. This should be reflected in your recommendation and comments.

SYNOPSIS: Feel free to start this on the cover page if there is room.

COMMENTS: Sometimes a company will ask for a comment summary. This appears after the Logline and before the ratings grid. It is a quick summary of what you think about the script. It is NOT what the script is about.

Your comments should be concise and well thought out. Give examples from the script when appropriate. Do not put actual dialogue in the Comments section, unless it is the only way to make your point. And even then, use it sparingly.

A. Concept

1. How original it is? Is it derivative?

2. Does it have a fresh take, new twist on familiar story?

3. Is it a true-life story?

4. Is it based on other source material (book, graphic novel, etc.)

B. Premise/theme

1. Strength

2. Universality

3. Are the themes sufficiently woven into the plot? Too subtle?

C. Plot

1. Predictability

2. Obstacles, complications, reversals, twists (are there enough?)

3. Believability

4. Subplots (do they serve the main plot, are they well written and integrated?)

5. Continuity

1. Are they 3 dimensional? (with a range of emotion and expression?)

2. Motivation-does it make sense? Are there actions believable & consistent?

4. Flaws? Are there enough to make them interesting? Are they stale?

5. Evolution? Does the main character learn anything? Change?

6. Do the supporting characters serve a purpose?

7. Do we care what happens to these characters? Are they likeable? Relatable?

8. Are the characters stereotypes? Are they diverse?

9. Are these roles that will attract A List actors?

1. Reveals character traits

2. Reveals essential information

3. Is it a lazy substitute for visual imagery (show, don’t tell)

4. Is over- or underwritten

5. Sounds like people talking

a. Is it appropriate for the various characters?

b. Is it appropriate for the time period and culture?

6. Voice over – Is it lazy writing? Is it used appropriately and effectively?

1. What is at stake? Is it clear?

2. How crucial is it?

3. Are they stakes the audience cares about? Is it dangerous, life-saving, etc.

G. Structure

1. Proper setup of main character and conflict in the beginning

2. A middle that smoothly follows character development and pursuit of the goal

3. An ending that resolves the conflict presented in the beginning

4. A satisfactory ending. Does the character change, learn anything?

5. If it doesn’t follow traditional 3 Act structure-why not? Is the attempt effective?

1. Fast, slow, or varied

2. Appropriate for the tone and theme of the piece

3. Are you bored?

I. The writing

1. Mastery of Screenwriting

2. Individual style? New voice?

3. Execution of the Concept

4. Does it evoke intended emotions? Is it funny, inspirational, etc.

1. Is there an audience for this story?

2. Who is the audience?

3. Does it have broad appeal? Is it niche?

L. Comparisons

1. Refer to genre

2. Refer to similar films, if appropriate

3. Refer to mash up, if appropriate

M. Overall reaction

1. Mention anything unique about the work

2. Is it a good blueprint for a movie?