FAQ

We have collected many of the Frequently Asked Questions that you as a writer and potential client of ours will find useful. Please follow the links below to answer your QUESTIONS:

ANALYSIS:
COVERAGE & STORY ANALYSIS
DRAMATIC-VALUE CHANGE SCRIPT ANALYSIS
SCRIPT ARCHEOLOGY USP
ARCHEOLOGIST'S DIG

SUBMISSIONS:
HOW TO
TURNAROUND TIMES
PAYMENT OPTIONS
SALES/OPTIONING
CONTACTING THE SCRIPT ARCHEOLOGIST

OTHER SCRIPT & SPECIAL SERVICES:
THE QUEST FOR THE GOLDEN SCRIPT
REPAIR & GHOSTWRITING
THE SCRIPT DIG NEWSLETTER
SCRIPT DIG FORUM
SCREENPLAYS, MANUSCRIPTS, VIDEO GAMES, COMIC BOOKS, PLAYS


MISCELLANEOUS
FORMATTING GUIDELINES
COPYRIGHT PROTECTION & PROTECTING YOUR WORK
INDUSTRY RELATED QUESTIONS

OUR AFFILIATES & ASSOCIATES
SHOP NEW PRODUCTS

 

SCRIPT CLEARANCE:

Is The Script Archeologist a SCRIPT CLEARANCE COMPANY and do you provide SCRIPT CLEARANCE services?
NO. The Script Archeologist is NOT A SCRIPT CLEARANCE COMPANY. We DO NOT provide script clearance for scripts. The service of script clearance is beyond the scope of our services. SEE NEXT QUESTION FOR DETAILS AS TO WHAT A SCRIPT CLEARANCE COMPANY IS AND WHAT THE SERVICES THEY PROVIDE ARE.

What is SCRIPT CLEARANCE and what benefits do SCRIPT CLEARANCES provide?
Script Clearance provides the benefit of satisfying Error and Omissions insurance requirements. Numerous things including names of characters, businesses, schools, organizations, product names, and locations are checked. Materials that may be protected, including (but not limited to) film clips, books, photographs or artwork, proposed prop use and/or dialogue could result in serious financial and reputation damage if proper permission is not acquired before they are used in a production.

 

 

ANALYSIS:

COVERAGE & STORY NOTES [link to Services]

What is The Script Archeologist's Coverage service?
The Script Archeologist Coverage is designed to assist writers in assessing the caliber of their final draft screenplays, published books, and manuscripts. It is a great tool for gauging the approximate market value of your material. Before submitting, you should feel as confident about the quality of your material as possible.

What is a Coverage Report?
A Coverage Report is a formal, unbiased review of literary material. It is a tool for executives, agents, managers, and producers to evaluate whether or not a script is worth their time. The Script Archeologist Coverage is the culmination of a Hollywood search mechanism aimed at filtering talent, developed from study of one of the premiere Hollywood Script Doctors. The reports include a synopsis of the material, a brief evaluation of its positive and negative points, a grade in the major categories (plot, character, dialogue,structure) and a "pass", "consider" or "recommend". These points aren't open for debate as they are how the reader felt about the material, good or bad.

Click here for a sample coverage.

What are The Script Archeologist Analysis?
A much more comprehensive report on specific trouble spots, this document is modeled after studio-style development notes (a studio document generated to improve the material). The Script Archeologist Analysis are designed to mix critical feedback with fundamental teaching for improving them. We use the PROBLEM/REASON/SOLUTION method of analysis. Rather than simply pointing out problems, we also provide a number of suggestions on how to improve the material.

Which elements of my screenplay will Analysis cover?
The Script Archeologist Analysis explore areas such as character relationships (protagonist goals, stakes, antagonist), theme/premise/message, setting, dialogue, description, structure, character arc, plot points, set-up, climax, and mechanics. While a number of other areas may also be covered, the key points of each set of notes depend on the particular strengths/ weakness of the material.

 

DRAMATIC-VALUE CHANGE SCRIPT ANALYSIS [link to Value Change Script Service]

What is your Dramatic-Value Change Script Analysis USP?
A vital element of writing is the Value Change, which is necessary for a story to move forward. The Script Archeologist provides a unique analysis, charting Dramatic-Value Changes in your script. Dramatic-Value describes the 'beat value' in terms of its intensity. Our Proprietary Service plots the story's Dramatic-Value Curve over the length of your entire script. The 'beat value' is calculated by our proprietary Beat Analysis System based on the history of story beats executed and their dramatic values. The resulting graphic analysis illustrates where your story correctly builds and continues to evolve through dramatic value changes, and where it flat-lines. These flat-lines or plateaus represent problems that can result in the reader losing interest, being confused and/or a breakdown of the story movement.

 

SCRIPT ARCHEOLOGY USP [link to Script Archeology Service]

What is your Script Research USP and what does it provide to its users?
The Script Research USP is a unique service that we provide to writers, directors, producers, studios, archivists and industry specialists. It is a service that can make the difference between an ordinary story and a great story. Using our proprietary methods of unearthing the secrets of any topic, we can help your story go from an ordinary one to an extraordinary one. For more information regarding our service CONTACT US or check out our service at our Script Research page.

 

ARCHEOLOGIST'S DIG [link to Archeologist's Dig]

The Archeologist's Dig, what is it and how can it be of value to me?
The Archeologist's Dig is a treasure trove of industry information for scriptwriters, screenwriters, history geeks and anyone that finds obscure and interesting facts, tips and hints useful. Here you will uncover valuable articles and writing help that will make you more informed about the film, TV and literary industry. With frequent updates, visitors will want to come back again and again.

 

 

SUBMISSIONS:

HOW TO [link to Submissions]

How do I purchase your services?
Once you have made the decision to utilize our services, either email us or phone to arrange a consultation. As part of all our services, we provide either a face to face meeting or a phone call in which to discuss what you are looking for from our service. During the initial consultation we will cover details including the type of service you need, pricing & your budget, why you are hiring a script consultant, and your goal for the project. Additional important issues we cover include your writing experience and experience with any other script consultants along with what you want from a script consultant. The purpose of the call is to get to know not only you the writer, but your story.

How will I receive my analysis? Email or mail?
All notes are sent electronically either a a MS Word document and as text in the body of the E-mail. For an extra charge they can be included in the submission if submitted in Final Draft, or written directly on the hardcopy submission. See Fees & Services for pricing.

What format do you accept scripts in when submitting electronically?
You may submit your script in the following formats: text, pdf, doc, fdr (final draft), rtf. They should be properly formatted.

When I send the money, the script and the application form separately how do I know, that my script has been received?
We will send you a confirmation email as soon as we have received each.

Will I receive a discount on future submissions?
Yes, The Script Archeologist does offer a 10% discount on resubmissions of a script that you have received our service on. Click here to learn more.

Should any other material accompany my script?
Miscellaneous items (ie, artwork, tapes, CDs, etc.) that are sometimes included to "accompany" the reader while reading the script are never looked at or listened to. IF YOU ARE PURCHASING AN ANALYSIS: Send only the script or manuscript. Save your money for more copies. IF YOU ARE PURCHASING OUR OTHER SERVICES: When purchasing one of our premiere USP services, as part of our consultation we will discuss what materials are needed to accompany your script. Prior to sending any materials be sure to confirm with us what is needed and what will be accepted.

Do you accept re-submissions?
Yes, The Script Archeologist does accept re-submissions. In fact we encourage it as it reinforces the focus and direction of a script. Being familiar with your script helps the process of evaluation. We regard resubmissions exactly like first time submissions. All submission requirements remain the same. Please note, resubmitting your project multiple times for coverage and/or analysis is no guarantee that a project will eventually receive "consider" or "recommend" coverage, even after using our coverage or analysis service. One of the biggest mistakes that writers make when resubmitting - they don't take time to do a complete run on their rewrite. Be sure you examine in detail the structure and dynamics in your story's particular genre. Getting a consider from The Script Archeologist is very hard. Take the time to study the material you're writing to make sure that you are reading between the lines.

I am not of legal age. Can I still send you my screenplay for analysis?
If you are not of legal age, we first require a signed document by a parent or a guardian who is of legal age, granting us permission to collect fees and to provide an analysis or any other service we offer.

Do you accept international submissions?
Yes, as long as they are written in English. All our fees are in US dollars.

If I send a hardcopy of my script, will I get it back?
We will return it only if you enclose a SASE (Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope) with your submission. If you choose to do so, please ensure that you have included the correct postage. edit

 

TURNAROUND TIMES [link to Turnaround Times]

How long do I have to wait for my consulting?
Depending on the volume of submissions during a given time, it should take between 2 to 3 weeks. Our goal is aim to get it back to you as fast as possible.

What if I don't agree with my coverage?
The Script Archeologist can only guarantee that your project will be read and written up as coverage, story notes, or treatment analysis by an experienced script consultant. We do not guarantee that the writer(s) will agree with the reader. In coverage, many times there will be discrepancies between what the writer(s) is trying to convey and what the script consultant (or industry reader working for a studio) picks up on their read and subsequently reports in their coverage. This is the reality of the coverage process. A valuable part of being able to see actual coverage on your project is to get a sense of what the typical industry reader is seeing AND not seeing.

What if I disagree with your analysis? Do you offer refunds?
We are here to offer constructive criticism and not to discredit your writing ability. Our notes reflect an objective and fair analysis without bias of any kind. We do not offer refunds though if you choose to cancel your order, you may do so within 12 hours.

 

PAYMENT OPTIONS [link to Submissions]

Can I pay by Credit Card and submit electronically?
Yes, simply click the buy button next to the product you are interested in and select the payment option you would like. PayPal offers the option of credit card payment or PayPal account payment.

 

SALES/OPTIONING

If I get a Consider or Recommend, will you sell my script?
It's important to understand that The Script Archeologist is NOT a literary agency - so we don't negotiate sales or options.

Does The Script Archeologist commission a sale or option?
The Script Archeologist does not commission sales or options that originate through our service. The level of our success is directly proportionate to the success of you, the writer.

Does The Script Archeologist.com help the writer sell his/her screenplay?
The Script Archeologist.com is neither a literary agency nor a marketing company, so we do not help writers sell their material. We do have working relationships with a few producers and industry professionals.

Does The Script Archeologist.com help the writer find an agent?
No. For a list of agents who accept material from new writers go to www.wga.org

How can I get my screenplay into the marketplace without having an agent?
Web sites exist that assist writers in getting their works reviewed by potential buyers. Visit our Links Page for several of them. Another option is to enter screenplay competitions that offer, as part of the winning prize, introduction to agents or producers. www.moviebytes.com is one notable site. We list several screenplay competitions on our Industry News page.

 

CONTACTING THE SCRIPT ARCHEOLOGIST [link to Contact]

Can I phone you if I have questions about the services The Script Archeologist offers?
If after reviewing our web site pages which detail all the services we offer, as well as the FAQ page, and you don't find an answer to your question, we ask that you send an email to The Script Archeologist with any questions you may still have. Email is a more highly efficient means of communication. Your questions will be answered much faster than if you phone us. Our phone time is spent with those who have received a screenplay or rewrite analysis and have purchased and scheduled phone consultation time for the purposes of going over their screenplay.

 

OTHER SCRIPT SERVICES

QUEST FOR THE GOLDEN SCRIPT [link to The Quest for the Golden Script]

What is the QUEST FOR THE GOLDEN SCRIPT and how can it help me be a better writer?
<span class="scriptA">The Quest For The Golden Script is a free service we offer that reveals the process from conception to optioning of a successful or 'Golden Script'. Details include little known facts and obscure 'industry secrets' that a writer will encounter in his/her quest to success. We feel that buy excavating the mysteries of the industry for the writer, taking them step by step, they will know better what to expect and the expectations of those they will deal with along the journey. These industry artifacts will greatly benefit the writer as we reveal the truth behind the myths of getting a script written and optioned.</span>

 

REPAIR & GHOSTWRITING [link to Consulting]

If I have a story idea that I think would make a good film but am not a screenwriter and don't wish to write the screenplay myself, can I send it to you?
<span class="scriptA">Yes. The Script Archeologist provides a “Premise Evaluation” service for those who have an idea for a screenplay. The fee we charge for this service is listed on our Consulting & Services page under Ghostwriting. <span class="scriptA">The Premise Evaluation determines whether or not your idea would be a viable one. If, and only if, we determine that it may have a chance in the marketplace, we would then ask if you would like us to send a proposal outlining the costs you would incur for the different development phases and the time frame needed for us to write the screenplay for you. Investing in a screenplay is always a high-risk venture. There is never any guarantee of a sale.</span></span>

Do you edit screenplays?
The services we offer are screenplay, TV script and treatment analysis, adaptation, ghostwriting and/or rewriting and consultation. We also provide the service of REPAIR, which includes formatting and typesetting.

Do you offer a screenplay formatting service? For this action we suggest purchasing one of the many screenwriting software programs which will properly format your screenplay as you write/type it. Please visit our LINKS page for a selection of software programs. If you have a screenplay already written but are not satisfied with it and you wish to use our rewriting service, proper formatting of the script is included in that service. For a full listing of our screenwriting services visit our CONSULTING SERVICES page.

You can visit our CONSULTING SERVICES page for information on having us format your story for you. Our services are very detailed and well priced.

I like the graphics seen on The Script Archeologist site. Do you sell products with them on it? Check them out
Yes we do have various products available that display artwork from our site as well as other cool graphics. You can buy mugs, apparel along with other items. Show off your personalized The Script Archeologist items.

Do you have a Mailing List and how do I sign up?
Yes, The Script Archeologist does feature a mailing list. You can sign up for it after any purchase of any of our services. As part of the payment process you will be taken to a Mailing List optional Sign Up page. Once there simply fill in the Opt In box with the requested information. Within minutes you will receive an email requesting you to confirm your interest in joining our Mailing List. Simply reply to the email and your in.

Does The Script Archeologist answer questions about how to write screenplays, proper formatting, how to sell a screenplay, how to find an agent, etc? As part of The Script Archeologist's Screenplay Analysis service, we provide a detailed critique of premise, story, formatting, screenplay structure, dialogue, plot, setting, production value and character development. We do not currently offer screenwriting courses or seminars, nor do we get into how to market your screenplay or how to find an agent. If you are just getting started on your screenwriting career, we suggest purchasing one of our associates books, 'I Could've Written A Better Movie Than That!', by Derek Rydall. His book includes chapters on how to find agents, as well as how and where to market your completed screenplay, TV script or treatment. Derek Rydall also offers a screenwriting course.

 

THE SCRIPT DIG NEWSLETTER [link to newsletter]

The Script Dig Letter newsletter?
Our newsletter THE SCRIPT DIG LETTER, we will reveal what we have unearthed from the industry along with what is New and Up Coming at The Script Archeologist. As well, it will be a vehicle to promote our Associates and Affiliates. Special Announcements, Promotions, Writing Contests (and their winners) and other marketing opportunities will be featured so we can bring the most to you, our loyal readers in an effort to help you to become the best you can be and to help write the best story you can. We will also feature our own products.

Can I advertise on The Script Dig Letter newsletter?
If you wish to market your service through our newsletter THE SCRIPT DIG LETTER, we'll be excited to work with you to promote your web site, contest, service or industry related product. Contact us at sales@thescriptarcheologist.com

 

FORUM [link to forum]

The Script Dig Forum?
Here we will unearth and discuss information on topics that are important to writers, readers, industry newbees and gurus alike. We encourage you to return often to THE SCRIPT DIG to find the answers to questions regarding every aspect of the film, television, comic book, publishing and multimedia industries relating to What's New, What's become Standard, What's Upcoming and What's Important in those industries and to those working in them.

 

ADAPTATIONS, VIDEO GAMES, MANUSCRIPTS, COMIC BOOKS, PLAYS [link to Consulting Service]

Do you accept adaptations?
As long as you have the appropriate rights/permissions from the original author, we welcome adapted material. We do require proof of these rights before providing any of our services on the material.

Do you accept video game story scripts?
YES. We do accept video scripts. By the nature of these types of scripts, they are extremely long and contain extensive dialogue. As such, fees for working with these projects will need to be discussed. Contact us for a quote and check out our Consulting Services for fees and submission requirements.

Do you accept story scripts for Comic Books, Manuscripts & Plays?
YES. We do accept scripts for all these medium. By the nature of these types of scripts, they vary in length, detail and standards for submission. As such, fees for working with these projects will need to be discussed. Contact us for a quote and check out our Consulting Services for fees and submission requirements.

What if I want to write a screenplay adapting it from an already published book, short story or novella?
<span class="scriptA">If the already published material is in the public domain it is permissible to use the material for a screenplay. If the already published materials are not in the public domain, then it would first be necessary to purchase the rights from the author and/or publisher before a screenplay could be written and marketed. The Script Archeologist requires documented proof of its domain status before entering into any agreements to provide services on these materials. We are not a Script Clearance company and do not provide script clearance services. The Script Archeologist may recommend a company that provides this service in the future, though we currently do not.</span>

What if I want to write a sequel to a movie that has already been produced?
The basic premise and characters are the property of the studio/production company that made the film. You first have to get the rights to the property before being able to market your sequel. As long as you have the appropriate rights/permissions from the original author, we welcome this type of material. We do require proof of these rights before providing any of our services on the material.

Do you analyze “shorts”, partial or unfinished screenplays or TV scripts?
We do not analyze “shorts”. We analyze only completed screenplays or TV scripts. For information on how to send us your completed screenplay or TV script please visit our Submissions Page. For information on the various turnaround times and corresponding rates please visit our Consulting Services page.

 

MISCELLANEOUS

FORMATTING GUIDLINES

How long should a story be?
Typically no longer than 125 pages. Added fees are charged for more than 120 pages. For novels, games and comic books the length will vary.

What type of format should my script or manuscript be in?
This is one of the most neglected yet important steps in the submission process. Courier is the industry standard font style and the font size should be no less than 12 point. Scripts exceeding 150 pages should be shortened and/or considered for multiple scripts. Cheated margins are very obvious. Brass brads are the binding of choice. Conformity rules when it comes to how your script looks.

 

COPYRIGHT PROTECTION & PROTECTING YOUR WORK

How am I protected from anyone stealing my idea?
Although the film industry offers no guarantees, studios and production companies have much to lose and little to gain by stealing ideas. These companies would much rather buy a screenplay or manuscript rather than risk being sued for millions after making a movie. The Script Archeologist can not stress enough the recommendation that all submissions be registered with the Writers Guild of America and/or copyrighted with the U.S. Copyright Office. Registration information for the WGA is at (323) 782-4540 on the West Coast, (212) 757-4360 on the East Coast.

 

INDUSTRY RELATED QUESTIONS

What kind of material is Hollywood looking for right now?
Many times writers get caught up on the buying trends of Hollywood. In reality, it doesn't matter. If your script or manuscript is genuinely good, it will get noticed. Buyers are looking to fill up their entire development slate, resulting in a need for a wide variety of genres and writers all of the time.

What screenplay or TV script contests are the best to enter?
The Script Archeologist does not recommend any one contest. For a list of contests visit our Industry News page.

I would like to become a reader/analyst. How do I go about doing that?
The book entitled: "I COULD HAVE WRITTEN A BETTER MOVIE THAN THAT, How to Make Six figures as a Script Consultant Even if You're Not a Screenwriter", by Derek Rydall will answer your questions on how to become a reader/analyst. It is the premiere work on the subject of becoming a Script Consultant. It can be purchased on Amazon.com

 

 

OUR AFFILIATES & ASSOCIATES [link to Our Affiliate page] - [link to Our Associates page]

How can I become an Affiliate of The Script Archeologist?
It is easy to become an Affiliate of ours. Email us your web site url. Include a short description of why you want to be an affiliate and what service you will link to on our site. Also detail the mutual benefit to yourself and The Script Archeologist by your becoming an affiliate. Once we have reviewed your information we will contact you within 2-3 business days.

How can I become an Associate of The Script Archeologist?
It is easy to become an Associate of ours. Check out our MARKETING & PROMOTIONS page to view our Online Ads packages. Email us the url to your website. Include details as to how your business and The Script Archeologist.com can mutually benefit from being associates and why you want to market your products and services with us.

Once we have reviewed your information we will contact you within 2-3 business days.

 

SHOP NEW PRODUCTS [link to our SWAG]

What kinds of items can I purchase?
We will be offering many items that you can buy. They will include exclusive and unique graphics made by our Associate Progeny Designs. They created all of our cool graphics that will be displayed on SWAG. These items include apparel, hats & bags, prints & stationary, as well as home and office items (mugs, decorative accessories etc). We will also be creating a unique line of screenwriting tools for assisting you in your script writing.

 

For more information on all our services, be sure to view our services on the various pages in our site. For consultations contact us. The Script Archeologist team looks forward to hearing from you to answer all your questions and to provide you with the highest quality services.

A complete listing of all our Services and their associated Fees. The consulting fees paid by credit card via PAYPAL or MONEY ORDER (pre-received & received bank clearance). UNCOVER MORE!

 

Remember,

THE SCRIPT ARCHEOLOGIST,
Discover What's Buried Beneath Your Script's Story ...

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