our MOST Frequently asked questions…
Does BGWW have a mailing list I can get on?
Yes! For a monthly newsletter, workshop updates and other goodies you can sign up here http://eepurl.com/epGr6
How else can I follow BGWW?
on Facebook, Instagram. You can also follow Kathryn on Instagram @kathrynisawriter & Twitter @KBurnettdotcom
Can BGWW recommend screenwriting software?
Most pro screenwriters we know use one of these Final Draft, Fade In, Scrivener, Writer Duet, Movie Magic, Trelby and CeltX. We use Final Draft as it is industry standard.
Does BGWW offer one to one screenwriting coaching?
Kathryn offers 90 minute one to one consultations – get in touch to find out more But if you are a newer writer – a screenwriting workshop or course workshop will be much better bang for your buck!
Does BGWW offer free or discounted workshops?
Yes, we do. We run a free online writing- related workshop every two months – get a heads up by signing up to our non-spammy mailing list - http://eepurl.com/epGr6 And we regularly offer industry and Earlybird discounts.
How do I get published?
This isn’t really our kung-fu but we know peeps who can help you with that – check out the NZ Society of Authors
ABOUT SCREENWRITINg
How long is a feature screenplay?
Most screenwriters generally aim for between 90 -110 pages. If you’re newer aim for a lower page count.What’s the difference between a short and a feature?
The not very useful answer is that a short film is shorter than a feature film. Most commonly - short films are between 10-15 mins but vary depending on platform. But the premise and structure for a short film will be simpler.How can I stop someone stealing my idea?
The short answer is you can’t. There’s no copyright in an idea. But there is in your execution of an idea i.e. your screenplay or treatment or book. This issue often causes newer screenwriters angst but consider this – is your idea so original that nobody else on the planet would have it? Probably not. (See question about protecting your work.)
How do I get feedback on my screenplay?
Here are some ways 1) ask screenwriter friends to do a quid pro quo read & feedback session 2) organise a read through with writer/actor friends 3) buy a professional assessment – check out Kathryn’s assessment services here. And do ask around for recommendations.
How do I find a producer?
Start researching! Googling production companies will offer up the main local production companies and you can see if there's any info about how to submit material for consideration. (If not, contact them via landline or contact email to find out.) You can also look at funding decisions by NZ on Air, the NZ Film Commission and Script to Screen – which will tell you who is making what. Find local producers & production companies via the Databook. NZ Writers Guild has a list of local producers to full members.
Common writing credits switch between Screenplay By and Written By – which is correct?
Both. ‘Written By’ refers to an original screenplay as opposed to ‘Screenplay By’ which refers to a screenplay adapted from an existing work e.g. a book or play.What is an Option Agreement?
Very simply an option agreement allows a producer (or other party such as a Production Company) to buy the rights to represent a work and secure finance for it over a specified time period. It’s not a purchase agreement – it’s like the right to purchase. When the option is exercised, the work is then purchased (by way of a purchase agreement).
Someone wants to contract me to write or buy my work – what do I do?
Seek third party legal advice. If you belong to a guild or organisation like the NZ Society of Authors – have them read it and advise. Alternatively have a lawyer do the same.
ABOUT SCREENWRITINg
How do I format a screenplay?
Professional formatting is essential and relatively simple to learn – you can download our free formatting guide e-book here on our resource hub.
Do I have to use screenwriting software?
Initially, no. But if you’re planning to send your work into the world and want to take this seriously – why would you put yourself through the pain of not using it?How do I break into the screen industry?
There are a few ways to start your process of "getting in" - query emails and networking. First step - get involved with/join any industry organisations in your area and get along to any industry events they host.
Sign up for the Script to Screen database, and the NZonAir database and the NZFC database - and join the New Zealand Writers Guild (an advocate organisation for screenwriters.) In addition you can also join WIFT, Nga Aho Whakaari, PASC or PISA.
Your next step is to have something to show people i.e.work.
Once you have that - you’ll write a query email or the approach to approach email - you can find an article on this on our resource page.
How do I protect & copyright my work?
The copyright is automatically yours once you write your screenplay. But when sending work offshore some people like to register their screenplay or TV proposal etc with a registration service (run by local writers’ guilds) but this has more to do with proof of ownership if your copyright is ever challenged. You can register your screenplay with the NZ Writers Guild, The Writer’s Guild of America and The Script Vault.
What is a character bio?
A prose description of character. Their backstory, good points, flaws, personality, job, quirks, dreams – whatever you want to make it. More commonly used in TV but is a great writers tool.
What’s the difference between a logline, synopsis, outline and treatment?
A logline or pitchline is a one to three sentence summary of story that outlines the basic elements such as who it is about, what it’s about - and the core conflict.
A synopsis is a short document (several paragraphs to a page) that describes your story. It’s the summary of plot in present tense –establishing setting, main characters, conflict, and their motivations behind the conflict. Resolution of conflict i.e. the end of the story.
An outline is a prose document that tells the story in the present tense NB: sometimes the terms outline and treatment are interchangeable but a treatment is a longer document. An outline is usually 2-10 pages long.
A treatment is usually a long and thorough document i.e. the whole story of your screenplay written in prose generally without dialogue. They can be 10-40 pages long.
Can I copyright a title?
No, there is no copyright in a title and while titles can be registered, this doesn’t confer copyright over them.
How long does copyright last?
In New Zealand it is generally 50 years after the death of the author, although sometimes copyright can be held by the author’s estate and may be extended. The duration of copyright overseas will vary from country to country.
Is my copyright recognised overseas?
In most countries, yes. New Zealand is a signatory to various international treaties on copyright and your work receives protection in those countries that are signatories to the treaties. You can also register your works with Writers Guild’s in international territories.
What’s the situation if I want to adapt a true story?
You will have to get permission from the person whose story it is or from their family/estate?
Want to know more?
Our Beginner’s Guide Screenwriting Course is popular for a reason…