Screenwriting : Advancing In A Screenplay Contest Requires More Than Just A Strong Story by Phillip E. Hardy, "The Real Deal"

I think Shia Lebeouf's name does offer him an advantage with some contest and festival readers, but I hope overall the judging is based on the script. I know some contests don't let writers submit cover pages so readers don't know who the writers are.

He may be a competent writer, he may be a genius. But would we be talking about that competition if he was mentioned? Did they just get a notability boost via their decision? Will people now say that they are a better competition based in the people winning?

I think choosing him didn’t hurt them. And the collateral benefit may have played a part.

Hilarious, Shia is more successful as a filmmaker than many contest judges offering advice. But it shows ppl at all levels of show biz want validation and jpeg awards.

Anyways, if legit contests force a salary cap of say no more $35,000 earned income from writing to be eligible, maybe a few new writers who truly need exposure from contest wins could perhaps get paying jobs.

Among others, the Page competition does not allow submissions with the writer's name on the title page. For that placement it must have been talent alone.

There are more contests and film festivals that don't care about having your name on the title page. And I've entered several of these competitions where Shia has also competed. The Sun valley film festival offers screenwriters the option of sending their written bio along with their screenplay. I've been a quarter-finalist at The Page Awards, and you're correct about the no-name requirement.

I like to think that no matter what stage you are with your craft, you’ll always need or require honest input. Perhaps he just wanted genuine feedback. Let’s face it, is that not one of the reasons we enter a contest in the first place — honest feedback? If I entered contests run by my friends and family I’d win every one of them and never grow as a writer. Perhaps for him it’s the same and some. I’m sure a lot of people will just pucker up and kiss ass just for a name. Just something to think about.

Jesse: I’m sure a lot of people will just pucker up and kiss ass just for a name. Definitely. I'm sure if Paul Thomas Anderson of Chris Nolan called me up I'd be inclined to gush.

While I agree wholeheartedly about the need for feedback at every level, it rings hollow LaBeouf enters competitions. A thousand-dollar prize. He may spend more on haircuts in a month.

LaBeouf has a long and storied career. Knows top actors, directors, producers and writers. If he asked, they would surely provide feedback. At least some would. I wonder how the history of "incidents" affects his Hollywood status. Still being hired.

The Beef does seem to be a talented writer. However, in those contests where title page names are allowed, the recognition probably affords a leg up. Oh well. Life is not always fair.

Write your best, get feedback and roll the competition dice.

"While I agree wholeheartedly about the need for feedback at every level, it rings hollow LaBeouf enters competitions." Maybe Shia Lebeouf just likes winning contests, E Langley.

Don't we all, Maurice Vaughan

Yes, E Langley. :) I meant, Shia Lebeouf might not enter contests for the chance to pitch to pros and the money. He might just like winning contests.

I understood you. I meant all of us like winning contests. Whatever comes of a win is icing on the cake.

You're right, E Langley. "Access to pros and money" icing. :)

Fat stacks, Yo.

Haha E Langley

I remember a similar hoo-ha a while back with the same individual getting a placement in Page. It made me laugh then and still does now. Gnashing of teeth of outraged screenwriters that an actor is 'stealing' their placements. He's eligible to enter for the contests so I don't see what the fuss is about. Good for him.

It was stated the Page semi was earned through talent as there are no names on the scripts. There does exist the possibility, as several outraged teeth gnashers have mentioned, a well-known actor's name on a script just might tip the scales. It's an advantage.

America, land of the free (so I've heard). The same right for The Beef to do as he wishes applies to those stating an opinion. Good for us. And that's no laughing matter. ;)