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Script
Presentation & Technical Editing: Is it Really Impoertant? "Will a producers might think of buying my screenplay even if there is typos etc. that need to be fixed? Doesnt story mean anything anymore or do people just care about the little things that no one even sees when the finished film is completed?" And so began what was a much longer real E-mail received by a real screenwriter who was looking for real industry credits as a writer. Notice anything that would turn off even the most lenient of producers, agents, managers, and anyone considering a partnership with the writer? Thought it was a joke at first, but. . . unfortunately, no. And this is in no way meant to bash the writer, but consider that a) this individual was a fluent English speaker, b) a college graduate, and c) has written a number of scripts. While international writers are allowed a number of mistakes (hey, you try writing a script in your second language), there's just no excuse for someone to neglect performing a technical polish on their script, including fixing typos, sentence structure, and overall grammar. What it boils down to over 90% of the time is laziness and putting too low a value on amending those technicalities. But consider this: would you read a whole script if it was written like the above sentence? Certainly not. On the other hand, will two missing commas, a spelling mistake, and an erroneous scene heading send your screenplay to the recycler? Unless you're dealing with a deeply and genuinely shallow reader, no, it's fine. The reason many readers place a decent amount of stock in technical editing has to do with time: the clearer and more legible a screenplay, the quicker and easier the reader can get through the text and concentrate on what's most important—the story, theme, and creative elements. Always make sure your formatting is spot on as well. For example, if you're not 100% sure how to write a montage, look it up online or in a reference book. Same for other questionable/tricky "rules" (time-lapse, flashbacks, etc.). Always give the script to someone else—friend, pro editor, a reader, whatever—to try and spot out lingering typos or awkward sentences. As writers, you of course can't be expected to catch everything. Above all, put forth the effort to edit the script after you feel you have a suitable first draft, story-wise. Educate yourself on all the facets of writing (that is, if you didn't go to film school, or if you were one of the many nodding off during class), and seek help from others if need be. If you're a Script Pimp Writers Database member, you can E-mail questions to us, and we'll happily offer a prompt reply. Showing that you've utilized resources in polishing a script's presentation proves to the person reading your work that you're serious about honing the craft. And THAT just gives you an extra boost in getting producers, agents, and managers interested in you as a screenwriter. (*and yes. . . "important" in the header was spelled wrong for a reason) |