Frequently Asked Questions

What will happen to my application?

The information you submit to the website can only be accessed by authorised members of The Big Idea team for administration and selection purposes. We may also use personal information to contact you about your application. Please refer to the Terms & Conditions for more information.

How many times can I enter?

You can enter each genre once only; so if you enter each genre that's a maximum of four entries.

Can the Concept and the Writing Sample be the same?

No, the Concept and the Writing Sample must be different. The Sample should be (up to) 15 pages of your best work where you create a convincing world with compelling characters, so that we can see that you'll be able to do the same thing with the Concept you've entered. You need to provide a log line for this Writing Sample also.

What exactly is the prize?

The prize is a £25,000 development deal with the writer -  that is for a treatment based on the winning concept, a draft and then one set of revisions as is commonly understood.

Is there only one prize?

Yes, but Shine Pictures reserves the right to develop other shortlisted Concepts at our discretion, in each case negotiating any option deal in good faith and according to industry standards.

Why do you have to have 'demonstrated experience' to enter?

We believe that screenwriting is a craft; we aren't just looking for clever ideas, we are looking for talented writers who can achieve them. While previous 'demonstrated experience' isn't always a guarantee of talent, it is the best indicator we know.

What is your definition of an Optioned Feature?

This means that a registered 'arms-length' production company has purchased the exclusive rights to develop a feature film based on your script. We need to know the name of the company and if the Option is current.

What is your definition of a Produced Feature?

This means that a registered arms-length production company has produced a feature film based on an original script written by you.

What is your definition of a Festival Short?

Our definition of a 'Festival short' is one that has been selected for Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Sundance or Toronto or has received a BAFTA or Academy Award nomination.

What is your definition of an Agent?

Our definition of an 'Agent' is someone who is an industry professional who represent other credited writers.

What is your definition of TV broadcast drama?

Our definition means that you've written an episode of a TV drama or serial that has screened on a recognised TV broadcaster.

What is your definition of a performed Play?

Our definition means that you've written a play that has been performed by a professional theatre company.

What is your definition of published writing?

Our definition means that you've written a poem, short story or novel that it has been published either on it's own or in a recognised literary journal.

What if I don't have the 'demonstrated experience' you've asked for but feel I have 'equivalent' industry experience

Feel free to put your case to us, but you will really need to convince us. Why should we be the first to say 'yes' when no one else has?

Chicken or the Egg: how will I ever get the 'demonstrated experience' if everyone requires it as a prerequisite?

It's a good question, and one that we have all faced at some point. One of the best ways to get your scripts produced is to get involved with other filmmakers, in particular producers and directors. Make a short, enter festivals, become part of the film making community in your local area, whether that's Crieff, Chelsea or Cardiff. Contact your local screen agency to find out more about what's available: www.ukfilmcouncil.co.uk/fundedpartners.

What will you do with all of the personal information I enter into the website?

The information you submit to the website can only be accessed by authorised members of the production team for administration purposes and the panel of selectors for judging purposes. We may also use personal information to contact you about your application.

Please refer to the Terms & Conditions for more information on how your images may be used in the programme.

How do I know if my application has been submitted incorrectly or incomplete?

The Big Idea project manager will use reasonable endeavours to contact any candidate via email if their application has been deemed to be incorrect or incomplete. The email will inform them about what area of their application is incorrect or incomplete. They may then give the opportunity to rectify this issue if appropriate.

Although every effort will be made to contact candidates whose applications fall into this category we are unable to guarantee that this will happen. Accordingly candidates must try to ensure that they apply correctly.

What should I do if my PDF files aren't uploading?

If you're having trouble uploading PDF files, please note the following points:

I need help

If you need any technical help with filling out the application please email us at [email protected] with your contact details and what the problem is and someone will get in contact with you as soon as possible.

If you have any further specific questions about the competition you can email THE BIG IDEA Project Manager [email protected].

 
If you have any technical problems or questions contact [email protected]