FAQ
Why do we ONLY accept electronic entries?
In the early years of the BlueCat Screenplay Competition, every entry was a “hard copy” screenplay, printed on paper and mailed to us via postal services.At first, it was exciting to see the piles and piles of screenplays. But every year, when it came time to recycle all those scripts, the thought in our minds grew louder: “Wow, this is a lot of paper!”
Shortly after we began to accept screenplays electronically, it became quite clear how much waste was created by BlueCat’s acceptance of paper entries.
Everyone knows the importance of respecting our natural resources, and we all love to write and read stories set on Earth and beyond. BlueCat is now asking all writers to join us as we strive to act responsibly as inhabitants of our home, this planet.
In light of this, BlueCat will no longer accept paper submissions. Join BlueCat in using the wonderful tools we have today to create and discover the stories we will see on the screen tomorrow! ENTRANTS MAY STILL PAY ENTRY FEE BY POSTAL MAIL, please follow the submission procedure for directions.
How do I convert my file into a PDF?
What happens if I submit the wrong Screenplay File?
Under absolutely no circumstances will substitutions of either corrected pages or new drafts of the entry screenplay(s) be made. Screenplays will not be returned.
Can I submit a screenplay under a pen name?
No.
Does my script have to be registered?
No. We do recommend registering your work with the WGA and/or the Library of Congress Copyright office.
Does the writer maintain rights to the screenplay?
Yes.
Do I need to submit a logline? Synopsis?
No.
Do you accept short screenplays?
What’s the minimum/maximum required page length?
Features 75 – 125 pages.
What genres do you accept?
We accept and welcome all genres.
If submitted electronically, does my script get read on the computer screen or is it printed out?
Due to environmental concerns, electronic entries are not printed on paper.
How can you guarantee a script is even read and given an equal shot?
Two different readers will read each script, with each reader providing a full page of written analysis. See examples here.
What elements of the script are taken into consideration during the judging?
Story, Characterization, Dialogue, Description, Clarity, and Originality.
Where are the Rules & Guidelines?
Why don’t you allow people to use pen names when submitting to the competition?
Due to abuses in the past whereby entrants were resubmitting submissions under various names, we no longer accept pen names.
