How should I pick a writing sample?
You should use your best judgment and upload the completed English-language screenplay or teleplay that best represents your ability to execute the idea you are submitting.
Can my writing sample be the project I am submitting?
Yes. It can be, but it does not need to be.
What if the script I want to submit isn’t completed?
A finished written work is required to submit, as we want to evaluate your ability to execute a story from start to finish. Please either complete the script that is in progress before submitting or submit a different script.
Can my writing sample be something that I wrote with a partner even if I am applying as an individual?
No. If you are applying as an individual, your writing sample should also be something you've written as an individual.
Can I upload more than one writing sample?
No.
Can I submit an original TV pilot as my writing sample?
Yes.
Can I submit a short film script as my writing sample?
Yes.
Can I submit a spec script of an existing TV show as my writing sample?
No.
Can I submit a feature film script that is an adaptation as my writing sample?
No.
Can I submit a novel, graphic novel/comic book, or short story as my writing sample?
Yes.
Can I submit a play as my writing sample?
Yes.
Can I submit a treatment or summary as my writing sample?
No.
Does my writing sample need to be in English?
Yes.
Can I upload a bible, treatment, summary, pitch deck, proof-of-concept, or coverage for my project in addition to my writing sample?
No. We do not want additional materials regarding the project you want to submit at this stage. You should convey as much as possible through your application answers.
What should be in my 30-second video? Do I need to appear?
Yes. The aim of the video is for you to pitch yourself in :30 seconds or less. It is akin to an "elevator pitch" and is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your voice as a writer and ability to communicate your ideas. The best of writers are not only concise and compelling in their written work, but their voice and writing skills translate to their ability to convey themselves and their idea verbally, as well.
Can my video just be me sitting in front of the camera?
Yes, this is what the majority of applicants submit.
Can my video be more than 30 seconds?
In fairness to all applicants, the Impact Team will stop watching any video around the 30 second mark so any video longer than 30 seconds will not be watched to completion.
I’m having trouble uploading my writing sample and/or video. What could be the issue?
Our system sometimes has trouble uploading two large files at the same time. Please wait until one upload is complete before starting the next upload. If you accidentally started to upload both at the same time and your second upload gets stuck, simply re-click the upload button and try again.
If you continue to have problems with your upload, it is more likely that you do not have a strong internet connection. We recommend decreasing your file size to accommodate your connection’s upload speed.
Are there any limits on file types and file size for my uploads?
Though we recommend that all writing samples be uploaded as PDFs and that video files be uploaded as .mp4 or .mov files, there are effectively no limits on file size nor on accepted file type.
How do I know my writing sample and video uploaded?
You would not be able to submit your application if these two files were not uploaded. As such, you can assume that if your application goes through, so did your files.
Due to the volume of emails we receive, we cannot reply to requests to double-check your uploads.
What do you mean by "produced work"?
This question refers to any work of yours that has gone into production and been distributed (including online self-distribution). This includes TV shows, movies, short films, webseries, and plays. You should provide a link to the final material itself, not the script.