Screenwriting Contest Advice

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First Impressions:
Nail Those First 10 Pages!

By Jerry Traynor, Associate Editor, Moviebytes.com

Screenplay contests are a gateway for aspiring screenwriters to get noticed in an industry that thrives on fresh voices and compelling stories. Yet, with hundreds or even thousands of scripts competing for attention, readers often make judgments quickly. This is where the first 10 pages of your screenplay become crucial. They are not just the opening to your story - they are your chance to hook the reader, set the tone, and stand out from the crowd.

First Impressions Are Everything

Contest readers, like agents and producers, sift through countless screenplays. Many scripts are set aside within the first 10 pages due to lack of engagement. This isn’t to say the rest of the story doesn’t matter, but if your opening fails to captivate, the rest may never be read. A strong opening demonstrates your storytelling prowess, your ability to create compelling characters, and your command of the medium—all within minutes.

Setting the Tone and Style

The first 10 pages establish the tone, genre, and style of your screenplay. Whether it’s a heart-pounding thriller, a whimsical romantic comedy, or a thought-provoking drama, the reader should understand what kind of journey they’re about to take. Clarity and consistency here are vital; if the tone wavers or the genre feels unclear, it can confuse and disengage your audience.

Introducing the World and Characters

The opening pages are where you immerse the reader in your world and introduce the characters that will carry your story. This doesn’t mean you need to give everything away—exposition should unfold naturally—but the audience should quickly feel grounded in the setting and intrigued by the people inhabiting it. Avoid generic introductions and strive for moments that reveal personality and stakes.

Establishing Stakes and Conflict

Conflict is the lifeblood of storytelling, and it should be apparent early on. The first 10 pages don’t need to spell out every challenge your protagonist will face, but they should hint at the central conflict or dilemma. Readers should feel a sense of urgency or curiosity about what will happen next.

Pacing and Economy

Screenwriting is a discipline of brevity. Every word on the page must earn its place, especially in the opening. Too much exposition, long-winded descriptions, or meandering dialogue can lose the reader’s attention. Effective pacing ensures that your screenplay feels engaging and dynamic from the start.

Unique Voice

One of the most important aspects of the first 10 pages is showcasing your unique voice as a writer. This doesn’t mean being flashy for the sake of it, but rather letting your originality shine through in how you craft dialogue, action, and visual storytelling. A distinct voice is what sets your screenplay apart in a sea of submissions.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Clichéd Openings: Starting with a dream sequence, waking up to an alarm clock, or overly familiar tropes can make your script feel unoriginal.
• Information Overload: Dumping too much backstory or exposition can bog down the narrative.
• Lack of Conflict: If nothing happens in the first 10 pages, readers may assume the rest of the script will lack momentum.
• Unclear Stakes or Genre: Make sure the reader knows what kind of story they’re getting into.

How to Test Your First 10 Pages

Before submitting to a contest, have others read your opening and provide feedback. Ask if they felt engaged, understood the tone, and wanted to read more. You can also compare your script’s opening to that of your favorite films in the same genre to see how they hook the audience.

Final Thoughts

In screenplay contests, the first 10 pages are your audition. They show readers that you know how to tell a story, that your script is worth their time, and that you have something special to offer. By crafting a compelling, tightly written opening, you set the stage for success—not just in the contest, but in your screenwriting career.

Remember, every great film started with a great opening. Make yours unforgettable.