Coverage Report

Definition

A coverage report is a detailed analysis of a script that evaluates its strengths and weaknesses, often used by producers, agents, and development executives to assess the potential of a screenplay for production. This report provides feedback on various elements, such as plot structure, character development, dialogue, and marketability, helping decision-makers determine if the script should proceed to further development or be rejected.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coverage reports are typically created by readers or analysts who are skilled in script evaluation and can provide objective feedback.
2. These reports usually include a summary of the plot, character descriptions, and an analysis of the screenplay's structure and pacing.
3. A well-written coverage report can be crucial in helping writers refine their scripts and can influence whether a project gets greenlit for production.
4. The report often includes a recommendation section, indicating whether the script should be passed on, considered for further development, or sent to producers.
5. Coverage reports are an essential tool in the entertainment industry for both established writers and newcomers seeking to break into the market.

Review Questions

• What are the main components that a coverage report evaluates when analyzing a script?
  • A coverage report evaluates several main components when analyzing a script. These include an overview of the plot and its structure, character development and arcs, the quality of dialogue, and overall pacing. Additionally, it assesses marketability and audience appeal to help decision-makers gauge the script's potential for production.
• Discuss how a coverage report can impact a writer's development process and the likelihood of their script being produced.
  • A coverage report can significantly impact a writer's development process by providing constructive feedback on various elements of their script. This analysis helps writers identify strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to make necessary revisions and improve their work. A positive coverage report can increase the likelihood of a script being produced, as it demonstrates to producers that the project has potential value and appeal in the marketplace.
• Evaluate the role of coverage reports in the broader context of script selection in the film industry, especially regarding new writers versus established ones.
  • Coverage reports play a critical role in the script selection process within the film industry by providing an objective assessment that influences which projects get picked up for development. For new writers, a strong coverage report can level the playing field against established ones by highlighting unique storytelling strengths or innovative ideas. Conversely, established writers may rely less on coverage but still benefit from it as a way to refine their existing work. In both cases, these reports help industry professionals make informed decisions that shape which stories reach audiences.

Related terms

Logline: A concise summary of a screenplay's premise, typically one to two sentences long, used to pitch the story and grab the interest of producers or agents.

Script Analysis: The process of examining a screenplay in detail to understand its components, themes, and overall effectiveness, often leading to recommendations for improvements.

Development Notes: Feedback provided by industry professionals that suggests changes or enhancements to a screenplay, aiming to improve its chances of success in production.