If you dream of breaking into the competitive world of Hollywood screenwriting, you’ve likely heard the term “spec script” thrown around. But what exactly does it mean to write a spec script, and how crucial are they in furthering a screenwriter’s career?
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll unravel the meaning of spec scripts in screenwriting and dive into why they’re so instrumental for aspiring scribes looking to turn their ideas into movies. We’ll explore key topics like:
- The origins and history behind spec script writing
- Why spec scripts are used and what they can accomplish
- Proper formatting and writing tactics for crafting a compelling spec
- Strategies for selling and marketing your polished script to the right people
If you want to learn how to maximize your chances of selling your original screenplay idea to major studios, this guide has you covered. Let’s get into everything you need to know about spec scripts and how they can launch your success in the Hollywood system.
Origins and History of Spec Scripts
To understand the role spec scripts play in the entertainment industry today, it’s helpful to know how they emerged and evolved over the past few decades.
Spec scripts refer to screenplays written “on speculation” by aspiring or unestablished screenwriters to showcase their skills and potentially get movies made. They are unsolicited, meaning not formally commissioned by a studio or producer.
The practice of speccing story ideas gained popularity in the 1990s during the “spec script boom” that saw many spec scripts sell for millions and get produced into major motion pictures.
Shane Black’s Lethal Weapon script famously sold as a spec for $250,000 back in 1987, kickstarting a wave of other lucrative sales.
Other high-profile spec script sales from this boom period included:
- The Fisher King (sold for $1 million)
- American Pie (sold for $1 million)
- The Truman Show (sold for $1.5 million)
This boom in spec script sales showed the appetite in Hollywood for fresh, original stories and new talent. While competitive, selling a spec script for six or seven figures demonstrated you could make serious money off an unproven screenplay.
In the early 2000s and beyond, the bubble of huge spec script sales contracted a bit. But the underlying practice remains an instrumental launching pad in every aspiring screenwriter’s playbook today. Those looking to break in recognize that a marketable, high-quality spec is a must.
Reasons Screenwriters Use Spec Scripts
Why do spec scripts continue being such a critical tool and path for screenwriters hoping to establish Hollywood careers? There are a few key strategic reasons:
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Write Original Ideas Not Tied to Studios
One of the central appeals of spec scripts is they allow writers to create something that purely comes from their own imagination. Unlike assignments, specs aren’t constrained by existing intellectual property or commissioning producers.
Many successful spec scripts tell completely original stories with characters unknown to the wider public. Coming up with compelling original concepts demonstrates creativity and the world-building strength many producers desire in a new writer.
You maintain full creative control and flexibility in your story choices writing speculatively. Just because no one asked you to write it doesn’t mean an ambitious spec won’t resonate with audiences. If anything, its freshness gives it an advantage.
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Showcase Writing Ability to Industry Insiders
This is the fundamental purpose of spec scripts in a nutshell–to display a writer’s talent and command of the craft to gatekeepers like agents, managers, and producers.
Writing an impressive spec script shows you can deliver:
- Airtight plotting and narrative structure
- Multidimensional, interesting characters
- Snappy, cinematic dialogue
- Visual writing style that immerses readers
Many successful screenwriters point to the spec script that put them on the map and signaled their arrival as talents to watch.
While there’s no guarantee, a well-written, marketable spec demonstrates skills required of professional screenwriters better than any calling card or resume points can alone. This reason makes them indispensable.
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Launch a Hollywood Career and Make Sales
In the best-case scenarios, spec scripts don’t just open up industry connections and assignments–they actually sell to major studios.
While less common than the 1990s boom era, fresh spec scripts still occasionally sell for high sums, especially in genres like comedy or horror. In 2021, screenwriter Ilyssa Goodman sold her spec script Asking for It for $1 million.
More often, spec sales come in lower mid 5-figures to low 6-figures, but can still massively boost a new writer without prior credits. Any initial monetary success funds more writing time and gets your name circulating.
Selling just one spec script can springboard screenwriting careers by enabling writers to earn living expenses from their craft. Though next to impossible, who wouldn’t want to sell their first-ever spec for a million bucks?
How to Format and Write a Spec Script Properly
You have this incredible movie idea you just have to get on the page. Your head swims with amazing characters, dramatic twists, and a killer premise. Before you dive right into writing your spec though, let’s go over some key steps:
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Learn Screenplay Format Guidelines
This may seem basic, but even seasoned writers mess up the script format and hurt their chances. Follow screenwriting software defaults or style guides like the ones from FinalDraft and John August.
Some spec script formatting tips:
- Use 12-point Courier font for industry standard.
- Include a title page with contact details.
- Employ sluglines for time and location.
- Separate action paragraphs no more than 3-4 lines.
- Use dialogue and character cues properly.
- Only underline and capitalize sparingly for emphasis.
- Insert page breaks where acts or scenes change.
Formatting shows you know the expected style. Experiment only once established.
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Pick a Contained, Feasible Story
Resist overstuffing your first spec script with too many characters, subplots, exotic locales, or special effects. Such scripts rarely sell since they’re difficult and expensive to produce.
Stay simple and contained to start. A character-driven storyline set in a few everyday locations is ideal. Martial arts epics or sci-fi space operas can wait.
Leverage classic high-concept hooks that instantly intrigue:
- Unlikely buddies paired together
- Ordinary person in extraordinary circumstances
- Compelling moral dilemma to resolve
- Underdog in Impossible Odds story
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Make Your Spec Script Stand Out
With spec script readers inundated with submissions, make yours leap off the page:
- Craft relatable characters readers instantly connect with via relatable backstories, motivations, and flaws.
- Incorporate vivid settings and immersive scene descriptions.
- Write natural, crisp dialogue that reveals character personalities.
- Plant exciting twists and turns without convoluting the plot.
- Effortlessly mix drama and humor at appropriate moments.
- Build a satisfying payoff ending that ties story elements together.
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Seek Feedback to Improve Your Spec
Don’t assume your draft is ready for Hollywood right away. Have trusted screenwriter colleagues and beta readers evaluate your spec script. Implement their constructive feedback in rewrites and edits.
Hire experienced script analysts or mentors to assess your spec’s merits. Their objective input will strengthen your submission package.
Strategies for Selling and Marketing Spec Scripts
Completing your spec script is a massive achievement, but you can’t rest yet. Marketing and pitching your material effectively requires just as much effort. How exactly do you get your spec script out there?
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Submit to Producers and Script Competitions Strategically
Finding producers accepting unsolicited submissions or script contests that get your project noticed both work, but target them carefully.
Research small indie producers seeking fresh scripts or use a production directory like Studio System to find appropriate matches for your spec based on past projects.
For contests, verify their industry reputation and panel judges. Top options like Nicholl Fellowships or Austin Film Festival carry prestige.
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Build an Online Presence and Network Tirelessly
Leverage social media platforms like Twitter to engage with the screenwriting community. Follow influencers, share advice, and authentically connect with peers and veterans.
Attend in-person networking events when possible and interface one-on-one. Have elevator pitches ready but focus more on relationships than pushes.
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Avoid Mass Querying and “Cold Calling”
Refrain from mass messaging hundreds of unknown producers or agents about your latest spec. These attempts often get deleted or banned for being too promotional.
Do your research on specific companies and target decision-makers smarter. Personalized pitches convert better.
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Partner With a Producer to Champion Your Script
Talented producers may option your spec script if your partnership vibes align. Bring them on board early to boost your project’s selling odds.
Aligning with producers already boasting connections gets your foot in more doors. But remember to protect yourself legally too.
Conclusion – Keep Writing Specs and Reaching for the Stars
Spec scripts represent the first step virtually every successful Hollywood screenwriter has taken to launch their career. Their unmatched ability to showcase talent and storytelling makes them indispensable.
Dreaming big is the key ingredient here. Unproven screenwriters do break into the industry and even sell specs for huge sums with the right blend of skill and perseverance.
So don’t let the competitive nature deter you from writing your original movie ideas on spec. As the classics say… fortune favors the bold.
Lean into your creativity, master screenplay format, and write visually stunning characters and worlds. Seek feedback from trustworthy script analysts and mentors to refine your projects.
Lastly, don’t get discouraged by rejection. Use it as fuel to improve your craft and keep plugging away. The more specs you write, the better you’ll get.
Remember that smash hits like The Hangover, Looper, and Nightmare on Elm Street all started off as specs. That kind of success is never guaranteed, but it IS possible with the right idea executed brilliantly.
Believe in your own abilities, support your fellow aspiring writers, and write from the heart. Your future Hollywood career inches closer with each completed spec script. Where will your creative mind take you next?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a spec script example?
Some famous movies that originated as spec scripts include The Hangover, Looper, Nightmare on Elm Street, American Pie, and The Truman Show. Shane Black’s Lethal Weapon script is one of the most well-known and lucrative spec script sales.
What is the difference between a spec script and a pilot script?
A spec script is an unsolicited, uncommissioned screenplay written on speculation to showcase writing skills. A pilot script is the first episode written for a potential new TV series used to pitch the show’s concept to networks.
What does it mean to write a spec?
Writing a spec means writing a speculative screenplay not currently attached to a studio, production company, or producer. It’s written with the aim of selling the script, using it as a writing sample, or attracting industry interest in the writer.
How long is a spec script?
The standard length for a spec script is 90-120 pages, with roughly one page per minute of screen time. Most specs are written to be around 100 pages since this is considered an ideal length.
How do I write a spec script?
Tips for writing a spec script: Choose an original compelling concept, outline the story structure, write visually with crisp dialogue, follow proper screenplay format, limit locations/characters, get feedback on drafts, and rewrite until polished.
What are the 3 types of scripts?
The 3 main types of scripts in screenwriting are the spec script (unsolicited), assignment script (commissioned), and rewrite script (hired for rewrites/polish).
What not to do in a spec script?
Avoid these common spec script mistakes: convoluted plots, unlikeable characters, description without subtext, on-the-nose dialogue, improper formatting, and over-reliance on effects/action.
What makes a good spec script?
Elements of a strong spec script: intriguing premise, compelling characters, sharp dialogue, vivid descriptions, excellent pacing, emotional depth, visual writing style, mastery of format.
Why is it called a spec script?
“Spec” stands for speculative, meaning written without upfront payment on the hope/speculation it will sell. “On spec” indicates it’s an unsolicited sample not directly commissioned.
