Script Coverage
Script Coverage is a detailed report that evaluates screenplays or TV scripts for production companies, studios, or agencies. Think of it as a book report for scripts - it helps busy executives decide which scripts are worth their time to read. Someone who writes script coverage reviews the whole script and creates a summary that includes the plot, strengths, weaknesses, and whether they recommend the script for further consideration. This is often an entry-level position in the entertainment industry, but it's crucial because it helps companies filter through thousands of potential scripts.
Examples in Resumes
Analyzed and provided Script Coverage for over 200 feature film screenplays
Created detailed Script Coverage Reports for television pilots and features
Managed weekly Script Coverage assignments for major production company
Developed standardized Coverage format for agency script submissions
Typical job title: "Script Readers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Script Readers
Industry Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you set up a coverage department for a production company?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating standardized coverage templates, establishing clear evaluation criteria, building a reliable reader pool, setting up tracking systems, and managing script submission workflow.
Q: What makes a script marketable in today's entertainment landscape?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of current market trends, budget considerations, audience demographics, and platform-specific content requirements (streaming vs. theatrical).
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you evaluate a script's commercial potential?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to assess budget requirements, target audience, genre marketability, casting possibilities, and production feasibility.
Q: What elements do you include in a comprehensive coverage report?
Expected Answer: Should mention logline, synopsis, character breakdown, market analysis, strength/weakness evaluation, and clear recommendation with justification.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between a logline and a synopsis?
Expected Answer: Should explain that a logline is a one-sentence summary that hooks readers, while a synopsis is a detailed summary of the entire plot.
Q: How do you approach reading a script for coverage?
Expected Answer: Should discuss reading for story, character development, dialogue, structure, and marketability while taking notes for the coverage report.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic script analysis
- Writing clear summaries
- Understanding standard script format
- Basic industry knowledge
Mid (1-3 years)
- Detailed market analysis
- Genre expertise
- Budget assessment
- Project evaluation
Senior (3+ years)
- Department management
- Industry networking
- Development strategy
- Team leadership
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to write clear, concise summaries
- Lack of knowledge about current entertainment industry trends
- Poor grammar and writing skills
- No understanding of script structure or storytelling basics
- Unfamiliarity with standard coverage formats
Related Terms
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