I came across this fantastic thread on one of my Linked In groups (thanks David Joglar!) that I want to share with you aspirant thespians!!
Giant conglomerates, such as Amazon Studios, are now accepting unproduced scripts online (just like Netflix).
They have a deal set up with Warner Bros. Studios on getting your script looked at… assuming it gets the ok from Amazon heads! Here’s the rundown on what Amazon Studios require:
– They are accepting movie scripts of any genre and television series scripts that are adult comedy (22 mins duration) or children series for 2-14 year olds (11 mins or 22 mins duration) (NO sketch, reality or talk shows).
– You upload your original script either publicly (for global feedback) or privately. Both methods will be viewed by Amazon Studios development staff for consideration of purchase. I will state the obvious here, you MUST OWN COPYRIGHT!!
– Initially they option it for 45 days for an evaluation period. You cannot remove your script during this period.
– While under consideration you CANNOT shop your script around either. Amazon Studios has exclusive rights during this period.
– If picked up for the Development Slate you receive a flat payment of $200,000USD for a movie script and $55,000USD for an episodic script for television (please note there are slight differences between purchasing a public project as opposed to a private project).
– They can then extend the option for two additional 18-month periods by paying you $10,000 for each extension. You cannot refuse an option request.
– They go into detail about any revisions you may make to the original script, so I suggest you check out the full details on this. I would recommend uploading a completed script. But if you upload your script publicly other members can upload a revision of your script also (if you allow it). The whole purpose of this exercise is for your script to reach its full potential.
– I couldn’t find any specific reference to writing credit. ???
– It is FREE to submit a script to Amazon Studios.
PROS:
– It’s free.
– You get (hopefully constructive if not good) feedback on your script if you upload it publicly.
– Payment if your script is picked up.
– Doors of opportunity open for you and the potential to get your name out there, possibly even be introduced to industry experts.
CONS:
– Amazon Studios has exclusive rights, you cannot shop it around for the 45-day evaluation period.
– It may not get picked up.
– You may not get valuable feedback. Let’s face it you’re inviting public opinion, good and bad.
– There may be re-writes without your consultation.
I’m sure there’s many more pros and cons that I haven’t mentioned. Feel free to enlighten me further.
Based on some of the feedback on the Linked In thread, someone who has submitted a script twice to Amazon Studios mentioned that 45 days can seem like a long time when you’re hot on the trail of pitching your project around.
I guess the real question is what have you got to lose?
As I said on the thread I would only upload scripts that aren’t my “baby”. You know the ones you’re less passionate about. And see what happens. You never know!!
Here is the link for full details on uploading a script to Amazon Studios: