TNT's Rough Cut Online Announces Screenplay Challenge

Posted on May 26, 1998

Beginning July 17, 1998, TNT's Rough Cut Online and New Line Cinema will present the Rough Cut Screenplay Challenge, a chance for Web surfers to collaborate online with Hollywood screenwriter, David S. Goyer. This will be the first in a series of genre-specific Screenplay Challenges.

Goyer will post the first five to ten pages of an original science-fiction thriller exclusive to the Rough Cut website. These first pages will introduce the characters and their world, and set a direction for the story. Movie fans and aspiring screenwriters will be encouraged to continue the story by submitting their own ten pages as the possible next chapter. "The World Wide Web offers a unique opportunity to share in the creative process," Goyer said. "I am excited to see what people come up with. Who knows? We just might be launching some promising careers!"

Each week, a panel of judges will select the best submission and post those ten new pages on the site. In addition to the opportunity to "collaborate" with Goyer and publish online, the winners will be awarded a prize.

At the end of the contest, Goyer will read the published script and write the final five pages. "I'll look at the twists and turns the other writers have contributed, and try to wrap up the story in a dramatic way that will satisfy and surprise everyone," Goyer said. The final screenplay will total between 100 and 120 pages -- the standard length for a feature film -- and will be available online for fans to read. TNT Rough Cut will post complete rules and regulations for the Screenplay Challenge, as well as a submission form.