Treatment
A Treatment is a detailed summary of a story that screenwriters create before writing the full script. Think of it as a blueprint or outline that explains the entire plot, characters, and key scenes in simple narrative form. It's longer than a basic plot summary but shorter than a complete screenplay. Production companies and studios often request treatments to evaluate a story idea before committing to a full script. This document helps everyone involved understand the story's direction and potential, similar to how a business plan works for new companies.
Examples in Resumes
Developed Treatment for feature-length romantic comedy picked up by major studio
Created character-focused Treatment that secured funding for independent film project
Wrote and revised multiple Treatments for streaming platform original series
Typical job title: "Screenwriters"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Screenwriters
Screenwriting Communities
Job Resources
Industry Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you approach writing a treatment for a complex, multi-season TV series?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to balance immediate story hooks with long-term character development, season arcs, and maintaining viewer interest across multiple episodes while keeping the treatment concise and engaging.
Q: How do you adapt your treatment writing style for different genres and audiences?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how different genres require different treatment approaches, and how to adjust writing style and detail level based on the target audience (studio executives, producers, or streaming platforms).
Mid Level Questions
Q: What elements do you consider essential in a treatment?
Expected Answer: Should mention character arcs, main plot points, tone, theme, and target audience, while explaining how to keep it concise yet informative enough for producers to understand the project's potential.
Q: How do you handle feedback and revision requests on your treatments?
Expected Answer: Should discuss their process for incorporating notes from producers or executives, maintaining the core story while being flexible to suggestions and market needs.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between a treatment and a synopsis?
Expected Answer: Should explain that a treatment is more detailed than a synopsis, including character development, major scenes, and tone, while a synopsis is a brief summary of the plot.
Q: How long should a treatment typically be?
Expected Answer: Should know that treatments usually range from 2-5 pages for a film, demonstrating understanding that length can vary based on project complexity and requirements.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic story structure understanding
- Character development
- Plot outline creation
- Understanding industry format standards
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced narrative techniques
- Genre-specific writing
- Adaptation skills
- Networking with industry professionals
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex story development
- Multiple project management
- Industry relationship building
- Mentoring junior writers
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to summarize stories concisely
- Lack of understanding of basic story structure
- No knowledge of industry standard formats
- Poor communication skills when discussing story elements
Related Terms
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