FAQ: Write of Passage Screenwriting Competition

THE COMPETITON:

Q: Will 168 randomly assign foundational scriptures as it is for 168 Film Project Signature Entries or does the writer choose the verse?
A: 168 supplies the verse based on the same theme that will be used for the next 168 Film Project. Thus these screenplays fit with the theme and can be shot and screen at the 168 Film Festival.

Q: What kind of stories is the contest looking for?
A: Redemptive stories are ideal, even if it's just a hint of redemption. If you choose to write a tragedy, then make sure there are real consequences for actions. Winking at or poking fun at hell, taboos and bad behavior is not a good idea for this contest.

Q: Can I write as a team?
A: You can write by yourself or with a group of no more than three.

Q: How do I interface with my DE, I live in Russia?
A: Your DE may be thousands of miles away and thus, he/she will use email. If possible, teams will meet face-to-face and/or talk by phone. If you live a long distance from each other, you can also use programs like Skype which are free. (www.skype.com)

Q: How many screenplays may I enter?
A: As many as you like, but you must pay one entry fee per script.

Q: What's in it for writers?
A: The winner gets a $1,000 cash prize, VIP treatment, phone meetings with Hollywood elites and awards. Writers get nominations and awards, which help in marketing your talent. If produced, you will get a writing credit and input on rewrites for the film. 

Q: What's in it for DEs?
A: This is excellent practice for a future career in story development. DE names go in the program book. You are the point person for a new creative community invigorated by your leadership. DE’s develop their sense of story and learn how to motivate and encourage a creative team to achieve excellence. IF YOUR WRITER WINS: You are introduced as part of the creative team to Hollywood VIP’s. You get an Executive Producer credit if your movie gets made. Finally, you get a free ticket to the 168 Film Festival.

Q: Do Write of Passage Spotlight Films compete with "168" Signature Speed Film entries?
A: No, they compete only with each other so it’s fair.

Q: Can writers just submit scripts to the 168 Office?
A: No, you must work through your DE.

Q: What if I don't like the DE who is assigned to me?
A: Writers will not be reassigned unless there is an extreme situation. It is important to learn to be flexible and be able to work with all sorts of people.

Q: Do I have to make all the changes my DE suggests?
A: No, they are just there to help and suggest. You are in control of your script, but remember DE’s judge the first round. You will learn that sometimes a client or executive will ask for changes that are detrimental. Choose your battles wisely.

Q: How important is it for me to integrate the theme and verse into the script?
A: Very important. Finalists MUST have good “scriptural integration”.

Q: Can I submit a script I've already written?
A: No, this is a speed screenwriting competition. Everyone writes with the same restrictions.

Q: What are the steps in the contest? Give me an overview.
1. Potential DE's apply for the Development Executive position.
2. Writers pay fee (168 member discount) & enter contact info on the web (www.168project.com).
3. You will get a confirmation.
4. Assignment of Development Executive (DE).
5. Your verse is sent at 5pm Pacific Time. ONLY THEN can you begin writing.
6. You will send drafts to the DE for critique per your agreed schedule.
7. The DE judges and sends entries to the finals in L.A.
8. Finalists are judged and announced.
9. All scripts are available to license in a 1^st look deal to 168 Spotlight Producers.
10. Write of Passage Spotlight Screenings at the 168 Film Festival. Awards: WOP Award and Audience Favorite.

Write of Passage Spotlight Films are a special category of films for the 168 Film Festival. The category is unlimited, so teams may begin production as soon as the bid on their chosen script is accepted by 168 management. Turn-in requirements are the same as for all other films.

Q: How many scripts will be made into short films at the 168 Film Project?
A: Usually 2-4 are made each year. Producers are responsible for their own budgets.

Q: Which scripts are option-able?
All scripts from every year are option-able, not just finalists. 
Here are the  Finalist scripts.

Q: Can Writers or DE's option their Write of Passage script?  
A: Yes, but the first look consideration goes to producers in the 168 film Project's W.O.P. Spotlight Program.

Q: Who qualifies as a Write of Passage Spotlight Producer?
A: Anyone who 1. Submits a bid for a script (as described below), 2. is Accepted, 3. Pays the Contest Fee and 4. Signs the Contract.

Q: Who gets accepted?
A: The Best Team that wants a particular script is selected (if minimum competency is met). Our goal is to give these films the very best chance to be great. If you are accepted as a producer, we will partner with you to help ensure your success!

Q: What is the acceptance process for Write of Passage Spotlight producers?
A: The 168 management team evaluates applications for script licensing. The best team applying for a particular script is selected (if minimum competency is met).  Our goal is to give these films the very best chance to be great. If you are accepted as a producer, we will partner with you to help ensure your success!

Q: How can I option a Write of Passage Script.
A: First, choose a script.  (Scripts with an asterisk * are not available.) Then contact us regarding your intentions.  You will be asked to send a bid proposal describing your Production-Marketing-Promotion Team profile:

• Personnel and experience level
• Resumes
• Any star attachments
• Source of funding or plan
• Project budget
• Secured locations & gear
• Factors that make you the best team for this film, such as why you want to make the story and how the DE or Writer is involved

Q: Is there a specific schedule for production like the 168 Signature Films?
A: No. The Write of Passage Spotlight Films will be unlimited (like our documentary contest) in regard to shooting schedule. Production can begin immediately. But, they must make the deadline for all 168 Submissions. As with all other categories of this competition, Write of Passage Spotlight films must not be screened publically prior to the festival. See Contest Rules.

Q: When will the Write of Passage Spotlight Films Screen?
A: At the Write of Passage Spotlight Screenings at the 168 Film Festival. These films will be programmed by 168 Management for excellent visibility.

Q: Are there awards?
A: Yes, the Write of Passage Spotlight Film Award, and the Audience Favorite Award. Spotlight films are NOT ELIGIBLE for the Best Film award.

Q: Can I produce a Write of Passage screenplay independently of 168? 
A: Yes, but 168 producers get the "first look."  Screenplays older than one year are fair game for production, but they must give credit to the WOP contest: "This film was based on a 168 Film Write of Passage Screenplay Competition Script." Independent producers will negotiate directly with the writers for rights to the script.