Sending a Screenplay to BBC Writersroom

What to Expect When Submitting a Script to the BBC

Apr 2, 2009

Submitting a screenplay to the BBC is a good first port of call for any budding screenwriter. The following informs on what BBC Writersroom look for in a script.

Completing a good screenplay is just the beginning. With so many agents, producers and inevitable rejection letters waiting out there, where does one start? Well, BBC Writersroom provides useful information for the novice screenwriter on what to expect when submitting a script to the BBC.

What is BBC Writersroom?

BBC Writersroom is the scriptwriter’s first port of call when submitting a script to the BBC. This consists of a team of readers that sift through the daily influx of scripts and decide on what goes on the rejection pile, and which scripts merit a further read. It also provides useful information, such as opportunities, writers blogs and general guidelines for the writer.

Sending a Script to BBC Writersroom

BBC Writersroom is looking for completed original screenplays, not episodes of existing dramas, such as Eastenders or Life on Mars. They also do not consider ideas or treatments, proposals or literary prose. Examples of how a script should look can be seen on links from the site. “Scriptsmart Gold” is a downloadable software that helps format the screenplay for the scriptwriter. It can also format film, TV drama, sitcom and radio sketches.

What BBC Writersroom are Looking For

Primarily, BBC Writersroom is looking for original stories that irresistibly propel the reader forward. Character-driven is always good, as well as a strong subtext. Subtext is what is unsaid vocally or in action, but strongly implied within the story. The plot should be tight as a drum and the dialogue leap out from the page. An ideal screenplay should be between 90 to 110 pages long, and it must contain the writer’s contact details.

What to Expect From BBC Writersroom

The first thing an aspiring screenwriter must learn is patience and waiting. BBC Writersroom receive up to 10,000 scripts per year and do not have the resources to provide feedback on every screenplay. However, they endeavour to reply within four months after sending an acknowledgement card, depending upon the workload. In most cases, the script will be returned without any comments. However, around 10% of these will be returned with feedback.

Opportunities for Screenwriters

If a screenplay shows promise, it will be passed on for a second read. If the screenplay holds its weight, it will receive full feedback and the screenwriter invited to send a second screenplay. In rare cases, the screenplay will be referred to the development manager who may recommend the writer to other production departments and possibly a development scheme.

How BBC Writersroom Helps and Supports the Budding Screenwriter

BBC Writersroom provides useful information on what to expect when submitting a script to the to BBC. It also provides other information such as opportunities, tips for the screenwriter and blogs. ScriptSmart Gold is a useful formatting tool for screenwriters who wish to write film, drama or plays. Contact details must always accompany the screenplay and also patience. If the screenplay shows promise, BBC Writersroom will invite the screenwriter to submit a second screenplay. In rare cases, the script will be referred to the development manger, where the screenplay may be developed further.

The copyright of the article Sending a Screenplay to BBC Writersroom in Selling Scripts is owned by Rachel Wills. Permission to republish Sending a Screenplay to BBC Writersroom in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.