Judging Criteria and Procedure
Screenplays are evaluated on a 10 point scale for each of the following attributes:
Concept
The idea behind the story. What the movie is about.
Presentation
Standard spec screenplay or teleplay format (12 pt. Courier font, correct margins, etc.), as well as spelling, punctuation, grammar, and usage.
Structure
The framework of the script. Effective use of three-act (most common), odyssey, linear or non-linear story progression.
Plot
The actions, events, conflicts, and turning points that propel the story forward. How the story unfolds (points for originality/unpredictability).
Pacing
The timing of the action, unfolding of plot elements and character development.
Characters
Personalities that are distinctive, compelling, multi-layered, and unpredictable. A protagonist and antagonist with clear and active goals.
Dialogue
Voices that are natural, succinct, and unique to each character. Use of language that effectively reveals character and moves the story forward.
Theme
The underlying message of the story as revealed through plot, dialogue, and visual elements.
Style
The overall quality of the writing. Narrative that is distinct, cinematic, and effectively conveys the mood or “feel” of the movie.
Commercial Appeal
The audience appeal and marketability for the script's particular genre or niche.
Judging Procedure
The judging process is anonymous. Judges are given the scripts by title and tracking number only.
The New York Screenplay Contest is judged by working professionals and experts in the film, television and entertainment industries, all of whom have years of experience reading, evaluating and developing scripts for studios, agencies, management firms and production companies.
Among our current and past judges:
Collette Liantonio – President
Collette Liantonio launched Concepts TV in 1983. With an MA in directing from New York University, Collette also attended Harvard University’s Owner/President Program. Collette is a licensed speech and dramatic arts coach and experienced in all aspects of public speaking and directing. Many of her Direct Response Commercials and Infomercials have become advertising legends, such as Ambervision Sunglasses, Topsy Tail, The Abdominizer, Contour Pillow and The George Foreman Grill. Concepts TV won over 70 awards for hits like Go Duster, Better Pasta Pot and Finishing Touch. Our Direct Response clients include WD-40, Bissell, QVC, Novartis, Time Warner, Salton, and Conair. Collette has been recognized as “One of the 25 Most Influential People in DRTV,” and has served on the Electronic Retailing Association’s Board of Directors and Backchannel Advisory board. Collette also co-founded the Broadcast Council of the Direct Marketing Association, and is a member of the Women Presidents’ Organization, The Woman’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and the Woman-Owned Business Enterprise for New York City (WBE).