How do I get invited to a retreat?
Invitations to the Feature Retreat are first extended to the winners, semifinalists, and finalists. Any remaining spots will be offered to quarterfinalists.
Invitations to the TV Retreat are first extended to division winners and finalists. Any remaining spots will be offered to category semifinalists and quarterfinalists.
Do the retreats cost money? Why? How much?
Yes, the retreats costs money. We wish we could offer our retreats for free; however, as a small, understaffed nonprofit, we simply don’t have the resources. Please know that CineStory is a genuine screenwriting community. All of the mentors volunteer their time for free – they do not get paid to appear. Nor is anyone at the retreat selling books, classes etc. We are always actively seeking sponsorship in the hopes of reducing the fees for all writers.
Retreat fees simply cover the basics of running the program and vary from year to year.
How are mentors selected for the retreat?
CineStory’s long history as well as its success in helping emerging writers establish successful careers has helped us establish strong ties throughout the entertainment industry. Our mentors are all working Hollywood professionals. Each retreat brings a mix of executives, pro writers, directors, agents, managers and producers together.
Will I receive notes on my screenplay or teleplay?
No. Unfortunately, as a small, understaffed nonprofit organization, we are not in the position to give notes.
Should I list all writers involved on the application? Or, if someone else has a story credit on my script, should I list that person?
That is for you to settle with your collaborators. Just know that all writers listed on the application need to sign it and any prize money will be equally split between all writers listed on the application.
I am still working on a draft. May I send it now and then send an updated version later?
No. You cannot send a replacement copy of the script. You can resubmit the new version of the script (with a new entry form and another entry fee).
My script or teleplay is longer than the page limit stated in the guidelines. Will it be disqualified?
Yes. Screenplays that are shorter than 85 pages or longer than 125 pages will automatically be disqualified, and teleplays that are shorter than 30 pages or longer than 75 pages will automatically be disqualified. Submission fees for disqualified screenplays or teleplays will not be refunded.
Do you accept adaptations of source material or scripts based on life stories?
Yes, we do accept adaptations; however, by submitting to our contests, you are acknowledging that you have secured all rights needed to adapt the material. Our official policy is that we do not research this ourselves, but if you advance in the competition, we do publicize your name and script so any copyright issues could become problems for you. Please make sure all legal issues are settled before submitting.
My script has been optioned in the past. Is it still eligible for submission?
As long as your script is not optioned when you submit it, it’s eligible for our contests. If during the judging process the script goes under option, please let us know immediately since, depending on the option terms, it may have to be pulled from the contest.
Can I submit more than one screenplay or teleplay to a contest?
Yes, as long as each submission is accompanied by a submission fee and all other required information.
Can I submit to both your Feature Contest and your TV Contest?
Yes, as long as each submission is accompanied by a submission fee and all other required information.
Do I need to copyright my screenplay or teleplay or register it with the WGA?
It is not required, but we do encourage it. Non-guild members can register their script with the WGA for a nominal fee, and it is a good way to protect your intellectual property.
Do you accept international entries?
Yes, we accept entries from all countries.
CineStory is solely a nonprofit educational organization. It is not a talent representation service of any kind. It does not, nor does it seek to, manage and/or direct the development of writers’ careers in any way. Additionally, it does not, nor does it seek to, procure representation and/or employment of any kind for writers. Its sole purpose is to educate emerging writers about the craft and business of writing for the screen.