Sunday 4 June 2017

FAQ

Everything you need to know!

- Who are you?
- Where are you based?
- Can we talk on the phone?

- What is the editing process?
- Do you change dialogue?
- What editing program do you use?
- File formats?
- Do you accept non-US scripts?
- What are your business hours

- What are your prices?
- Can I try the service for free?
- What payment methods are accepted?
- What about writers outside the U.S?
- What are the payment terms?
- Are you cheaper than other editing services?

- What sets you apart?
- What about confidentiality?
- Can you get my screenplay read by an agent?
- Do you offer screenwriting advice?

Who are you?

I'm a repped screenwriter and a freelance Script Reader. You can find me on IMDb.


I'm also a six-time quarter-finalist/semi-finalist for the Academy Nicholl Fellowship, the world's most prestigious screenplay competition.


Past semi-finalists include Michael Arndt ("Little Miss Sunshine"), Ava Duvernay ("Selma"), Damon Lindelof ("Lost"), Vince Gilligan ("Breaking Bad"), and Jon Spaihts ("Passengers").


Where are you based?

New York City: the greatest city on earth!


What is the editing process?

The main elements:


Formatting Check: Fixing formatting errors and streamlining existing formatting to make the screenplay a quick and easy read.


Editing extraneous description: Overwriting is a common issue and a surefire sign of an amateur. I rewrite/rephrase description lines to make them punchy and concise without compromising the story/characters.


Language check: Review grammar, spelling, verb tense, consistency, clarity, repetition, redundancy, tone, and sentence structure.


Remember: a screenplay is a blueprint for a movie, not a novel or an epic poem. The main goal is to tell your story in as few words as possible, which means cutting out anything that isn't essential. It's tough to "kill your darlings," but it's one of the keys to success.


Do you change the dialogue?

The writer's unique voice shines through in dialogue, so I usually leave it untouched bar spelling, grammar, and formatting. Rewriting dialogue basically amounts to rewriting the screenplay, and it's your work, not mine. I offer a separate dialogue polishing service, so don't hesitate to contact me for details.


What program do you use to edit?

Final Draft -- the industry-standard screenplay software.


What file formats do you accept?

PDF, Final Draft, Celtx, Highland, Rich Text Format, Microsoft Word, or Google Docs. Final Draft preferred where possible.


Do you accept non-US scripts?

Yes! I edit scripts from anywhere in the world, so don't worry about your standard of English. By the time I've finished, your screenplay will look like the work of a native English speaker.


What are your business hours?

I'm never closed for business! Submit your screenplay at any time, day or night, 365 days a year, and I will have it done within the agreed timeframe (and often sooner). Please note that the days quoted for turnaround times do not include weekends or public holidays.


What are your prices?

Please check the pricing page for a complete list of rates. I'm confident you won't find better value for money.


Can I talk with you on the phone?

Of course! Please feel free to call me.


What sets you apart from other screenplay editing services?

Unlike many other screenplay editors, I am an actual screenwriter with an agent, so I have a well-honed affinity for screenplay structure, story, characters, dramatic conflict, and everything else related to the distinct discipline of screenwriting.


My experience in the industry means I know what the decision-makers want: tight, economical, easy-to-read screenplays, and that's what I deliver. The story and characters are down to you, but I will ensure your script is in the best professional condition.


I also know how it feels to be a struggling screenwriter, dealing with rejection, anxiety, uncertainty, demotivation, and the tyranny of the blank page. I feel your pain, and combined with my extensive experience as a Script Reader, I have the empathy, ability, and craftsmanship to make a massive difference to your screenplay.


Are you cheaper than other editing services?

Yes! I offer significantly better value for money than all other screenplay editing services. For example, Super Screenplays charges $499 for standard editing, and DLA Editors charge over $1000 (!)


What about confidentiality?

Your work will always remain private and confidential. If desired, I'm happy to sign a non-disclosure agreement.


Can I try your service for free?

Absolutely! To prove my work's quality and help you make a decision, I offer a no-obligation "try before you buy" service. Email me any three pages from your script, and I'll edit them for FREE. Send pages to:


info@screenplaywizard.com

What payment methods do you accept?

All credit and debit cards are accepted via PayPal and Google Pay. Venmo or Zelle are also options for US-based writers.


What about writers outside the U.S?

Not a problem! Paypal is available in most countries across the world.


What are the payment terms?

Full payment is required upfront. 


Can you get an agent to read my screenplay?

To be clear: I offer editing services only. My job is to get your screenplay into the best possible professional condition. This won't guarantee that an agent will like your story, but it will give you a considerable advantage over the millions of other writers who submit poorly formatted and overwritten scripts.


You need to make your script stand out from the crowd, and one way to do that is to submit a professional, perfectly formatted, easy-to-read screenplay, and that's the service I provide.


Do you offer screenwriting advice?


Yes! As part of the service, I offer advice on any aspect of screenplay format and crucial tips on improving your screenwriting.


If you have any other questions or queries, please don't hesitate to email or call.

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