Frequently Asked Questions – US
The Application
Is there a correct length for a script?
Does The Writers Lab provide transportation to the Retreat?
What kind of production support does the Lab offer?
If my script is good enough to be accepted why do I need to develop it further?
Does the Lab offer any follow-up for writers beyond the Retreat?
Eligibility
Am I eligible to apply?
Why does the application ask for my birthday?
I am an American living abroad. Am i eligible to apply?
I am not a U.S. citizen and/or live outside the U.S. Am I eligible to apply?
I live in a British Commonwealth country. Should i apply to the U.S. or the UK&I Lab?
Do I need to provide proof of birthdate, passport or visa with my application?
I don’t have much experience. Does this affect my chances for acceptance?
The Lab Retreat
Is there a correct length for a script?
Does The Writers Lab provide transportation to the Retreat?
What kind of production support does the Lab offer?
If my script is good enough to be accepted why do I need to develop it further?
Does the Lab offer any follow-up for writers beyond the Retreat?
The Script
Is there a correct length for a script?
Are there any requirements regarding the software I use to write?
What file formats can i use to submit my script?
Will you consider scripts not written in English?
Can I reapply with the same script as last year?
Can i submit a script based on a book or an adaptation?
Can I submit a treatment if i don’t think I’ll have a completed draft by the deadline?
What does The Writers Lab consider “complete”?
Will my ideas be protected?
Do you accept scripts that have been submitted elsewhere?
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Top Reason Your Script Was Not Selected
Typos, spelling and/or formatting errors
Poor or confusing world-building
Poor or confusing story set-up
Weak protagonist arc (Often because the stakes are low)
Script is overwritten
Excessive and/or ineffective dialogue
Ineffecitve descrption
Concept is overdone or lacks relevance.
Un-cinematic storytelling
Poor or clichéd gender representation
Data Use and Privacy Policy
What is The Writers Lab’s U.S. data use and privacy policy?

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