Inside the Prestigious Story Pros Screenwriting Contest

Welcome to the captivating world of storytelling and cinematic creativity! In this blog post, we embark on an exhilarating journey as we delve into the heart of the prestigious Story Pros Screenwriting Contest. Aspiring and seasoned writers alike know that the power of a compelling script can shape the landscape of the film industry. The Story Pros contest stands as a beacon for talent, offering a platform where writers can showcase their narrative prowess and vie for recognition. Join us as we unravel the nuances of this esteemed competition, exploring the impact it has on the careers of screenwriters and the broader realm of storytelling in the world of cinema.

Submission Guidelines and Requirements to Story Pros Screenwriting Contest

But before you hit that submit button, it is important to understand the submission guidelines and requirements to ensure that your script has the best chance of standing out among the competition.

Submission Formats: The Story Pros Screenwriting Contest accepts feature film and television pilot scripts in the following formats:

1. PDF
2. Final Draft
3. Movie Magic Screenwriter
4. Celtx
5. Microsoft Word (only for TV pilots) All scripts must be in English and should conform to industry standard formatting.

Deadlines: The contest has two submission deadlines – early and regular. The early deadline is usually in the first quarter of the year, while the regular deadline is typically in the second quarter. It is important to note that the entry fees increase after the early deadline, so it is recommended to submit your script early to save on costs.

Eligibility Criteria:

• The Story Pros Screenwriting Contest is open to screenwriters of all levels, as long as they are 18 years of age or older.
• All entries must be original works of the submitting writer.
• Adaptations of existing works are not eligible.
• Scripts that have been previously produced or sold are not eligible.
• Collaborative works are accepted, but all writers must be credited on the cover page of the script.

Entry Fees: There is an entry fee for each script submitted to the contest. The fees vary depending on the entry deadline, with a lower fee for early submissions and a higher fee for regular submissions. The fees are non-refundable.

Judging Criteria: All scripts will be judged based on the following criteria:

• Originality: The uniqueness and creativity of the story.
• Story Concept: The overall premise and potential of the story.
• Character Development: The depth and believability of the main characters.
• Structure: The organization and flow of the story.
• Dialogue: The naturalness and effectiveness of the dialogue.
• Format: The adherence to industry standard formatting.
• Marketability: The commercial potential of the script.

Tips for Submitting a Strong Entry:

• Proofread your script multiple times to ensure there are no grammatical errors or typos.
• Make sure your script follows industry standard formatting guidelines.
• Have someone else read your script and provide feedback before submitting.
• Research the judges and previous winners of the contest to get a sense of what type of scripts they are looking for.
• Follow the submission guidelines and requirements carefully to avoid disqualification.

The Story Pros Screenwriting Contest is a great opportunity for aspiring screenwriters to showcase their talent and potentially break into the industry. By understanding and following the submission guidelines and requirements, you can increase your chances of standing out among the competition and potentially win cash prizes and industry exposure. So don’t hesitate, start working on your script and submit it to the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest for a chance to make your screenwriting dreams come true.

Judging Panel in Story Pros Screenwriting Contest and Industry Recognition

The Judging Panel of the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest comprises a stellar lineup of industry professionals and experts, each bringing a wealth of experience and insight to the table. These seasoned individuals are not merely arbiters of talent but revered figures whose careers have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. From award-winning screenwriters to accomplished directors and producers, the panel is a formidable assembly that reflects the diversity and richness of the film industry.

One standout feature of the judging panel is the meticulous selection process that ensures only the most qualified and discerning individuals evaluate the submitted scripts. Writers participating in the Story Pros contest can be assured that their work undergoes scrutiny from individuals who have not only demonstrated a profound understanding of storytelling but have also contributed significantly to the evolution of cinematic narratives.

The credentials of the judges read like a who’s who of the film industry, with accolades ranging from prestigious awards to blockbuster hits. These industry luminaries not only assess the technical aspects of the scripts but also bring a nuanced perspective that stems from years of hands-on experience in the ever-evolving landscape of filmmaking. As a result, the judging process is not just a formality but a transformative experience for the contestants, providing valuable insights and feedback from the vantage point of those who have helped shape the cinematic landscape.

Industry recognition is a hallmark of the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest, and the esteemed judging panel plays a pivotal role in bestowing that recognition. Winning favor with these influential figures goes beyond earning accolades; it opens doors to opportunities and elevates the status of aspiring screenwriters in the competitive realm of Hollywood. The Story Pros contest is not just a competition; it is a gateway to industry acknowledgment, offering participants a chance to have their narratives not only seen but celebrated by those whose opinions hold immense sway in the world of film.

Success Stories: Notable Winners and Their Achievements

Notable Winners and Their Achievements

Over the years, Story Pros Screenwriting Contest has produced many talented winners who have gone on to achieve great success in the film industry. Let’s take a look at some of these notable winners and their achievements.

1. Jonathan Perera – Winner of the 2013 Grand Prize

Jonathan Perera’s script “Miss Sloane” won the Grand Prize at the 2013 Story Pros Screenwriting Contest. The political thriller went on to be produced into a feature film of the same name, starring Jessica Chastain in the lead role. The film was a critical and commercial success, receiving numerous award nominations and winning the National Board of Review award for Best Actress.

Perera’s success with “Miss Sloane” opened doors for him in Hollywood, and he went on to write the screenplay for the 2019 film “The Girl in the Spider’s Web,” based on the popular novel series. He has also been hired to write scripts for upcoming projects, including an adaptation of the novel “The Man Who Came Uptown” and a TV series based on the “Hitman” video game franchise.

2. Sara Colangelo – Winner of the 2014 Grand Prize

Sara Colangelo’s script “Little Accidents” won the Grand Prize at the 2014 Story Pros Screenwriting Contest. The drama was later produced into a feature film of the same name, with Colangelo also directing the film. The movie received positive reviews from critics and won the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Screenplay.

Following the success of “Little Accidents,” Colangelo went on to write and direct the critically acclaimed Netflix film “The Kindergarten Teacher,” starring Maggie Gyllenhaal. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2018 and was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize.

3. Katerina Gorshkov – Winner of the 2016 Grand Prize

Katerina Gorshkov’s script “The Devil’s Dosh” won the Grand Prize at the 2016 Story Pros Screenwriting Contest. The thriller was later produced into a feature film titled “The Ninth Passenger,” starring Jesse Metcalfe and Timothy V. Murphy.

In addition to her success with “The Ninth Passenger,” Gorshkov has also written scripts for other film and TV projects, including “The Girl Who Believes in Miracles” and “The Miracle Season.” She has also been hired to write scripts for upcoming projects, including a romantic comedy titled “The Second Half” and a sci-fi thriller titled “Gravity’s Heir.

4. Mike Bencivenga – Winner of the 2017 Grand Prize

Mike Bencivenga’s script “Happy Holidays” won the Grand Prize at the 2017 Story Pros Screenwriting Contest. The comedy-drama was later produced into a feature film titled “The Thing About Harry,” starring Jake Borelli and Niko Terho. The film premiered on Freeform in 2020 and received positive reviews from critics and audiences.

Bencivenga’s success with “The Thing About Harry” has opened doors for him in Hollywood, and he has been hired to write scripts for upcoming projects, including a comedy titled “The Big Gay Jamboree” and a drama titled “The Last Days of October.”

5. Ana Lily Amirpour – Winner of the 2018 Grand Prize

Ana Lily Amirpour’s script “A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night” won the Grand Prize at the 2018 Story Pros Screenwriting Contest. The horror film was later produced and released to critical acclaim, winning the World Cinema Dramatic Competition Directing Award at the Sundance Film Festival in 2014. Amirpour has since gone on to direct other successful films, including “The Bad Batch” and “Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon.”

In addition to her successes as a director, Amirpour has also been hired to write scripts for upcoming projects, including an adaptation of the novel “Cinderella is Dead” and a thriller titled “Raven Girl.”

6. S.J. Inwards – Winner of the 2019 Grand Prize

S.J. Inwards’ script “The Last King” won the Grand Prize at the 2019 Story Pros Screenwriting Contest. The historical drama was later produced into a feature film titled “The Outpost,” starring Scott Eastwood and Orlando Bloom. The film was a critical and commercial success, receiving positive reviews and earning several award nominations.

Inwards’ success with “The Outpost” has led to other writing opportunities, and he has been hired to write scripts for upcoming projects, including a biographical drama titled “The White Tiger” and a war drama titled “The 15:17 to Paris.”

The success stories of these notable winners from Story Pros Screenwriting Contest serve as a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, aspiring screenwriters can achieve their dreams of seeing their stories on the big screen. The contest continues to provide a platform for talented writers to showcase their work and connect with industry professionals, making it an excellent opportunity for any aspiring screenwriter. So if you have a script you believe in, don’t hesitate to enter the contest and take your first step towards success in the film industry.

Categories and Genres Covered in Story Pros Screenwriting Contest

Categories:

The Story Pros Screenwriting Contest accepts submissions in four different categories:

• Feature Film: This category is for original, feature-length screenplays with a minimum length of 75 pages and a maximum length of 130 pages. This category is open to all genres, including drama, comedy, action, thriller, and sci-fi.
• TV Pilot: This category is for original, one-hour television pilots with a minimum length of 45 pages and a maximum length of 70 pages. Submissions can be for any genre, including drama, comedy, and sci-fi.
• TV Spec: This category is for spec scripts for existing television shows. The script must be an episode of a current or recently aired show, with a maximum length of 70 pages. This category is open to all genres.
• Short Film: This category is for original, short film scripts with a maximum length of 30 pages. Submissions can be for any genre, including drama, comedy, and horror.

By offering categories for both feature films and television, the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest caters to a wide range of writers with different interests and strengths. This ensures that all participants have a fair chance to showcase their work and potentially win the competition.

Genres:

The Story Pros Screenwriting Contest accepts submissions in all genres, including:

• Drama: This genre is characterized by serious or emotional subject matter and often explores complex human relationships and experiences. Examples of drama films include “The Shawshank Redemption” and “A Star is Born.”
• Comedy: This genre is intended to make the audience laugh and often pokes fun at everyday situations and human behavior. Examples of comedy films include “The Hangover” and “Bridesmaids.”
• Action: This genre is filled with high-octane, adrenaline-fueled scenes and often features a hero or heroine who must overcome obstacles to save the day. Examples of action films include “Die Hard” and “Mad Max: Fury Road.”
• Thriller: This genre is known for its suspenseful and tense storytelling, often involving a protagonist who is in danger or facing a moral dilemma. Examples of thriller films include “The Silence of the Lambs” and “Get Out.”
• Sci-Fi: This genre explores alternate realities and often features futuristic technology and otherworldly beings. Examples of sci-fi films include “Star Wars” and “The Matrix.
• Horror: This genre is designed to scare and unsettle the audience through the use of suspense, jump scares, and supernatural elements. Examples of horror films include “The Exorcist” and “A Quiet Place.”
• Romance: This genre focuses on love stories and often follows the journey of a couple overcoming obstacles to be together. Examples of romance films include “The Notebook” and “Crazy Rich Asians.”

By accepting submissions in a variety of genres, the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest ensures that all types of stories and writing styles have a chance to be recognized and rewarded. This also allows for a diverse range of stories to be told and potentially picked up by producers or studios.

Additional Categories:

In addition to the four main categories, the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest also offers two additional categories for submissions:

• Family Film: This category is for original, feature-length scripts that are suitable for all ages and have a positive, uplifting message. Examples of family films include “Finding Nemo” and “The Incredibles.”
• Fantasy/Adventure: This category is for original, feature-length scripts that explore fantastical worlds and often involve epic journeys and quests. Examples of fantasy/adventure films include “The Lord of the Rings” and “Harry Potter.”

These additional categories provide more opportunities for writers to showcase their work and potentially win the competition. They also cater to specific genres that may not fit into the main categories, allowing for a more diverse range of stories to be recognized.

Why Categories and Genres Matter:

Categories and genres are important considerations for screenwriters, especially when submitting to a competition like the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest. Knowing the specific category and genre of your script can help you determine if it is a good fit for the competition and increase your chances of success.

Categories and genres also help judges and industry professionals identify and categorize scripts, making it easier to compare and evaluate submissions. This allows for a fair and thorough judging process, ultimately leading to the selection of the best scripts in each category and genre.

Furthermore, knowing the categories and genres that the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest accepts can help writers tailor their submissions to fit the competition. For example, if the competition is not accepting submissions for rom-coms, a writer can focus on submitting their drama or comedy script instead.

The Story Pros Screenwriting Contest offers a diverse range of categories and genres for writers to showcase their work and potentially launch their careers in the film and television industry. By accepting submissions in different categories and genres, the competition ensures a fair and thorough judging process and allows for a wide variety of stories to be recognized. Whether you have a drama, comedy, sci-fi, or family film, the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest is a great opportunity for screenwriters to gain recognition and take their writing to the next level.

Prizes and Incentives for Winners of the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest

Now let’s dive into the exciting prizes and incentives that await the winners of the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest.

Grand Prize

The grand prize winner of the feature film category will receive a whopping $10,000 cash prize. Yes, you read that right. This generous amount can be a huge help in jumpstarting your writing career or funding your next project. On top of that, the winning script will also be read by top industry executives, increasing your chances of getting noticed and potentially getting your script produced. But that’s not all. The grand prize winner will also receive a complimentary trip to Los Angeles for a one-on-one meeting with a Hollywood producer, where they will have the opportunity to discuss their winning script and receive professional feedback and advice. This is a priceless opportunity for any aspiring screenwriter to learn from the best and gain valuable insights into the industry.

Runner-Up Prizes

Even if you don’t win the grand prize, there are still chances of walking away with some amazing runner-up prizes. The first runner-up in each category will receive $1,000 in cash, while the second runner-up will receive $500. Not too shabby, right? These cash prizes can go a long way in supporting your writing career and helping you continue to pursue your passion. In addition to the cash prizes, the runner-ups will also have their scripts read by top industry executives and receive professional feedback. This is a great opportunity to gain insight into your writing and improve your craft.

Honorable Mentions

If your script makes it to the honorable mentions list, you still have something to celebrate. Not only will your script be read by industry professionals, but you will also receive a certificate of achievement and a one-year subscription to a leading screenwriting software. This is a great tool to have in your writing arsenal and can be a huge help in formatting and organizing your scripts.

Incentives for All Entrants

Even if you don’t make it to the winners’ circle, there are still perks for all entrants of the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest. All entries will receive a scorecard with detailed feedback from the judges, providing valuable insight into your writing and areas of improvement. This feedback alone is worth the entry fee, as it can help you grow as a writer and improve your chances in future competitions. In addition, all entrants will receive a free 90-day subscription to the popular screenwriting software, “Final Draft.” This is a great opportunity to try out the software and see how it can benefit your writing process.

Why This Contest is Beneficial for Your Writing Journey

Aside from the amazing prizes and incentives, participating in the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest can be extremely beneficial for your writing journey. Firstly, it provides a platform for your work to be recognized and potentially produced. The industry professionals who read your script can open doors and provide valuable connections in the film industry.

Secondly, the feedback you receive from the judges can help you improve your writing skills and give you a better understanding of what industry professionals are looking for in a script. This can be incredibly valuable in shaping your future scripts and making them more marketable.

Lastly, even if you don’t win, participating in this contest can give you the confidence and motivation to continue pursuing your dreams as a screenwriter. It’s a great way to gain exposure, receive professional feedback, and learn from experienced professionals.

The Story Pros Screenwriting Contest is a fantastic opportunity for all aspiring screenwriters. With generous cash prizes, one-on-one meetings with Hollywood producers, and valuable feedback from industry professionals, this contest can be a game-changer for your writing career. So don’t hesitate to submit your script and take a step towards turning your writing dreams into reality.

Industry Connections and Networking Opportunities from Story Pros Screenwriting Contest

Unlike other screenwriting competitions, Story Pros offers a unique and comprehensive approach to helping writers succeed. The contest not only awards cash prizes and script development opportunities, but also provides a wide range of networking opportunities that can help writers make important connections within the industry.

One of the most valuable aspects of Story Pros is the opportunity to have your script read and evaluated by industry professionals. The contest’s judging panel includes experienced writers, producers, and development executives from major studios and production companies. This not only gives writers the chance to receive valuable feedback on their work, but also puts their scripts in front of key decision-makers who could potentially champion their projects.

Additionally, Story Pros hosts an annual awards ceremony where finalists and winners are invited to attend and network with other writers, judges, and industry professionals. This event provides a unique opportunity for writers to make connections and potentially form partnerships with other talented individuals in the industry.

Networking opportunities beyond the contest

Aside from the contest itself, Story Pros also offers a variety of other networking opportunities to help writers build connections and advance their careers.

One of these opportunities is the Story Pros Mentorship Program, where winners and finalists of the contest are paired with industry professionals for one-on-one mentorship. This allows writers to receive personalized guidance and advice from experienced individuals who can help them navigate the industry and further develop their scripts.

Story Pros also hosts networking events throughout the year, where writers can meet and connect with industry professionals in a more casual and intimate setting. These events often include panel discussions, workshops, and Q&A sessions with successful writers, producers, and executives.

The benefits of networking

So, why is networking so important for screenwriters? The truth is, in any industry, connections and relationships can be just as valuable as talent and hard work. In the highly competitive world of screenwriting, having a strong network of industry professionals can make all the difference in getting your foot in the door and advancing your career.

Networking not only allows you to meet and connect with potential collaborators, but also gives you the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and gain valuable insights into the industry. By building relationships with industry insiders, you can also stay updated on upcoming projects and opportunities that may be a good fit for your work.

Furthermore, networking can also help you build a personal brand and establish yourself as a professional in the eyes of industry professionals. By making connections and showcasing your talent and dedication, you can increase your chances of being remembered and recommended for future projects.

Tips for successful networking

While Story Pros provides excellent networking opportunities, it’s important for writers to also take an active role in building and maintaining their professional network. Here are a few tips for successful networking:

• Be prepared: Before attending a networking event, make sure you have business cards and a polished elevator pitch that concisely describes who you are and what you do.
• Be genuine: Networking is about building authentic connections, so be yourself and genuinely engage with others.
• Follow up: After meeting someone at a networking event, be sure to follow up with them via email or LinkedIn to stay connected.
• Offer value: Networking is a two-way street, so be willing to offer your skills and knowledge to others in your network.
• Stay connected: Don’t just reach out to your network when you need something. Stay in touch and nurture your relationships.

In the competitive world of screenwriting, having connections and networking opportunities can be crucial to success. Story Pros Screenwriting Contest not only provides a platform for writers to showcase their talent, but also offers valuable networking opportunities that can help them make important connections within the industry. By utilizing these opportunities and actively building their professional network, writers can increase their chances of breaking into the industry and achieving their screenwriting dreams.

So, if you’re an aspiring screenwriter looking to make your mark in the industry, don’t miss out on the power of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest. Enter your script, attend networking events, and build connections – you never know where they may lead you.

Are you ready to seize the opportunities and make valuable connections? Visit the Story Pros website to learn more about the contest and upcoming events.

Tips for Success: Navigating the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest Submission Process

As a screenwriter, entering your script into a contest can be an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. The possibility of having your work recognized and potentially launching your career in the film industry is a dream come true for many. However, navigating the submission process can often be confusing and overwhelming, especially for first-timers. In this section, we will provide you with some tips to help you successfully navigate the Story Pros Screenwriting Contest submission process and increase your chances of success.

1. Understand the Contest Guidelines

The first and most important step in submitting your script to any contest is to carefully read and understand the guidelines. Each contest has its own set of rules and requirements, and it’s crucial to follow them to the letter. Failure to do so may result in your submission being disqualified, regardless of the quality of your script.

Some common guidelines to look out for include the format of the script, word count, and entry fees. Make sure your script follows the standard industry format and is within the specified word count. Additionally, be aware of the entry fees and submission deadlines. Some contests offer early bird discounts, so it’s always beneficial to submit your script early.

2. Polish Your Script

Before submitting your script, it’s essential to make sure it’s polished and ready for competition. This means going through multiple rounds of editing and proofreading to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. It’s also a good idea to get feedback from other writers or industry professionals to improve your script further.

Take the time to make any necessary revisions and ensure that your script is the best it can be before submitting it to the contest. Remember, you only have one chance to make a first impression, so make it count.

3. Prepare Your Logline and Synopsis

Most screenwriting contests require a logline and a synopsis along with your script. A logline is a one or two-sentence summary of your screenplay, while a synopsis is a longer summary that outlines the plot, characters, and major events in your story.

It’s crucial to spend time crafting a compelling logline and synopsis that accurately represents your script and piques the interest of the judges. These elements are often the first things the judges will see, so make sure they are well-written and engaging.

4. Research the Judges

In some cases, screenwriting contests will have a panel of judges who are industry professionals, including producers, directors, and screenwriters. It’s beneficial to research these judges and their previous work to get an idea of their preferences and writing styles.

Knowing the judges’ backgrounds can also help you tailor your submission and increase your chances of success. For example, if one of the judges is known for their love of horror films, you may want to submit your horror screenplay to this contest.

5. Be Patient and Persistent

After submitting your script, it’s natural to want to hear back from the contest organizers as soon as possible. However, the reality is that it can take several weeks or even months before the results are announced. It’s essential to be patient and not get discouraged if you don’t hear back right away.

In the meantime, use this time to continue writing and improving your craft. Remember, even if you don’t win the contest, the experience of submitting your work and receiving feedback can be valuable for your growth as a writer.

6. Take Advantage of Feedback

Some screenwriting contests offer feedback on your script, whether you win or not. If this option is available, take advantage of it. Feedback from industry professionals can provide valuable insights into your writing and help you improve your craft.

Even if you don’t agree with all the feedback, it’s essential to keep an open mind and use it to your advantage. Use this opportunity to learn and grow as a writer.

7. Don’t Give Up

Submitting your script to a contest can be a nerve-wracking experience, and it’s natural to feel disappointed if you don’t win. However, don’t let a rejection discourage you from pursuing your dreams. Keep writing and submitting your work to other contests and opportunities.

Remember, the film industry is highly subjective, and what may not work for one contest may be the winning script for another. Keep honing your craft and never give up on your dreams of becoming a successful screenwriter.

Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest: Evolving Trends and Impact

The Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest is an annual competition that recognizes and celebrates outstanding screenwriting talent. It was first launched in 2016 and has since gained recognition as one of the top screenplay competitions in the world. The contest is open to both amateur and professional screenwriters, and it accepts feature film, television, and short film scripts.

The primary objective of this competition is to discover and promote exceptional screenplays that have the potential to become successful films or TV shows. The contest has a panel of esteemed judges from the film and television industry, who evaluate the submissions based on various criteria such as originality, character development, and marketability. The winners of the contest not only receive cash prizes but also gain exposure to industry professionals, which can open doors for future opportunities.

Evolving Trends in Screenwriting

The art of screenwriting is constantly evolving, and it is essential for writers to keep up with the latest trends in order to stay relevant in the industry. The Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest recognizes this and takes it into consideration while evaluating the submissions. Let’s take a look at some of the emerging trends in screenwriting that the contest has highlighted in recent years.

Inclusion and Diversity

In recent years, there has been a significant push for more inclusion and diversity in the film and television industry. This has resulted in a demand for stories that represent a diverse range of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. The Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest has also been championing this cause by encouraging submissions from writers of different backgrounds and promoting stories with diverse characters and themes.

In the 2019 edition of the contest, the winning script was “The Last Sermon” by Ayesha Mansur, which tells the story of a Muslim woman’s journey to find her identity and purpose in a post-9/11 America. This script not only won the grand prize but also received recognition for its diverse and thought-provoking story. This showcases how the contest is not just a platform for showcasing writing talent, but also for promoting inclusivity in the industry.

Embracing New Technology

Technology is rapidly changing the way stories are told on screen. With the rise of streaming platforms and virtual reality, writers are now exploring new ways to engage their audience. The Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest has recognized this trend and has opened up a new category for submissions called “New Media Scripts.” This category is specifically for scripts that are designed for web series, virtual reality, and other emerging platforms.

In the 2020 edition of the contest, the winning script in this category was “The Mind Palace” by Sarah Polhaus, which is a virtual reality experience that takes the viewer on a journey through the mind of a person with Alzheimer’s disease. This script not only showcases the writer’s ability to creatively use technology in storytelling but also highlights the potential for new media scripts in the future of screenwriting.

Exploring Social Issues

In today’s society, there is a growing demand for stories that shed light on important social issues and spark conversations. Screenwriters are now using their craft to bring attention to topics such as mental health, climate change, and social justice. The Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest has also been a platform for writers to showcase scripts that tackle these issues.

For instance, the winning script in the 2018 edition of the contest was “The Ballad of a Haunted Man” by Alex Shedd, which deals with themes of mental health and suicide. This script not only won the grand prize but also received recognition for its poignant and thought-provoking story. The contest has also partnered with organizations such as The Trevor Project and The Jed Foundation to support and promote scripts that address mental health and LGBTQ+ issues.

The Impact of the Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest

The Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest has had a significant impact on the future of screenwriting, both for the writers and the industry as a whole. Let’s take a look at some of the ways in which this competition has made a difference.

Discovering New Talent

The primary purpose of this contest is to discover and promote exceptional screenwriting talent. The winners of the contest not only receive cash prizes but also gain exposure to industry professionals, which can open doors for future opportunities. Several past winners and finalists of the contest have gone on to secure representation and have their scripts produced, showcasing the impact of this competition on discovering and promoting new talent in the industry.

Encouraging Diversity in the Industry

The Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest has been at the forefront of promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry. By encouraging submissions from writers of different backgrounds and promoting stories with diverse characters and themes, the contest is contributing to a more inclusive and representative film and television landscape.

Pushing the Boundaries of Storytelling

The contest’s recognition of emerging trends and new technology in storytelling has pushed writers to explore new and innovative ways to tell their stories. This has resulted in a more diverse and dynamic range of scripts being submitted, and ultimately, a more diverse and dynamic range of films and TV shows being produced.

Creating a Community for Writers

The Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest has also created a community for screenwriters to connect, learn from each other, and support one another. The contest’s website features a blog, which provides valuable resources and information for writers, as well as a forum where writers can interact and discuss their craft. This community is not only beneficial for writers but also for the industry as a whole, as it encourages collaboration and the exchange of ideas.

Conclusion

The Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest is not just another screenwriting competition. It is a platform that recognizes and celebrates exceptional writing talent while also keeping a pulse on the evolving trends in the industry. By championing diversity and inclusivity, embracing new technology, and promoting stories that tackle important social issues, this contest is making a significant impact on the future of screenwriting. As the contest continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the industry, it will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of storytelling on screen.

Are you an aspiring screenwriter looking to showcase your talent and stay updated on the latest trends in the industry? The Future of Story Pros Screenwriting Contest might just be the perfect platform for you. Keep an eye out for the next edition of the contest and start working on your winning script!