Script coverage

Definition

Script coverage is a written evaluation of a screenplay that provides a summary, analysis, and recommendations for improvement. It serves as a crucial tool for producers, agents, and development executives to quickly assess the potential of a script without reading it in its entirety. This process often highlights key strengths and weaknesses, evaluates characters and plot, and can influence decisions on whether to pursue a project further.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Script coverage typically includes three main components: a synopsis of the script, an evaluation of its strengths and weaknesses, and a recommendation for further action.
2. Evaluators of script coverage often focus on elements like character development, dialogue quality, pacing, and overall marketability.
3. Coverage is used by industry professionals to streamline their reading process, allowing them to quickly decide which scripts to read in full or pass on.
4. It can play a significant role in shaping the development of a screenplay, as feedback from coverage can lead to revisions or adjustments before seeking production.
5. Coverage is not just for completed scripts; it can also be valuable for early drafts to identify potential issues and guide writers in the revision process.

Review Questions

• How does script coverage influence the decision-making process for producers when evaluating new screenplays?
  • Script coverage plays a significant role in helping producers make quick and informed decisions about new screenplays. By providing a summary and analysis of a script's strengths and weaknesses, coverage allows producers to assess whether a project aligns with their interests or current market trends. This efficiency saves time by filtering out less viable scripts before they invest further resources into reading full drafts or engaging with writers.
• What are the key components typically included in script coverage, and why are they important for both writers and industry professionals?
  • Script coverage usually includes a synopsis of the screenplay, an evaluation of its strengths and weaknesses, and recommendations regarding its market potential. These components are important because they provide both writers and industry professionals with insights into how well the script communicates its story and characters. For writers, it offers constructive feedback that can guide revisions, while for industry professionals, it serves as an efficient tool to gauge interest in pursuing a project further.
• Evaluate the role of script coverage in the development process of screenplays and its impact on writer-producer relationships.
  • Script coverage plays a crucial role in the development process by providing structured feedback that can lead to meaningful revisions and improvements. It helps writers understand how their work is perceived by industry professionals and can foster collaboration between writers and producers. When feedback from coverage is thoughtfully communicated, it enhances relationships by creating an open dialogue about creative vision and production goals, ultimately leading to better-quality scripts ready for production consideration.

Related terms

logline: A brief summary of a script's premise, usually one or two sentences, designed to grab attention and convey the core idea of the story.

treatment: A detailed document that outlines the story, characters, and structure of a screenplay, often used as a step before writing the full script.

coverage report: A formal document produced after reviewing a screenplay, typically including a synopsis, analysis, and notes on production viability.