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Be a Script Doctor and help make Movies More Effective by writing a blog

May 5, 2022

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It requires a lot of writing to create a great script. Additionally, it takes lots of editing. This is where script doctoring can come in with expert rewriters giving scripts an expert-level nup/tuck that ensures they're fit for the big screen. And while it might not exactly be what your parents had in mind when they told you they'd like to make a career as a physician however, it's an essential (and usually profitable) profession in the film business.

The script doctors aren't able to enjoy the fame and glory enjoyed by writers, producers, directors, and actors. They might not even get their names mentioned in rolling credits. However, they have a chance to make an enormous difference in the quality of a screenplay, so if you have a talent for writing and editing and a passion for cinema take a look at being a script editor and putting your skills into practice.

This article will help you understand script doctoring, including what the job entails as well as the amount it earns and the steps that you could take when you try to break into the industry.

What Is a Script Doctor?

Specific objectives of script doctoring could include editing to ensure continuity, accuracy, and timing, and editing dialogue and making sure that the actions of all characters are properly written. Similar to how a magazine editor gives a new look to the content prior to it going to print the script doctor works step-by-step after writing a script to ensure that it's written at its finest. In doing so the script doctor helps screenplays achieve what a movie's makers want them to accomplish especially when it comes to identifying and remedying any unintentional errors.

Be aware it is important to note that Writers Guild of America (WGA), which is the union which represents movie writers however, doesn't recognize "script doctor" as a distinct function. Instead, they are lumped under general screenwriters however they do focus on the rewrites that are contracted.

What does a script doctor Do?

Script doctors do more than reading through a script and correct any obvious errors.

The tasks of script doctors differ, however there are a number of tasks that everyone in the position can anticipate to perform. Here is some of what you need to be able for if you want to take on the field of script-writing as a profession:

  • Collaboration with other teams:It takes a village for making a film. And although script doctors tend to assume a sole responsibility for their role, they also perform a lot of collaboration with screenwriters, producers, as well as other important actors on the film. This includes sharing notes and drafts, and also extends to in-person meetings and various on-set discussions.
  • Problem solving:Many movie producers will employ a script physician in the pre-production or development stage of scripts in order to make sure that it's hitting the right notes. But, script doctor may also be called upon for post-production or filming in order to troubleshoot issues with the script and devise feasible solutions. This may require a different skill set as opposed to pre-production editing. However, the best script doctors will be just as capable at these on-call fixes when they're in the development phase.

Because script doctoring isn't technically a recognized role and isn't a recognized profession, script doctoring professionals often wear many hats, working not only as screenplay editors but also as screenwriters in general. This is why script doctoring is an excellent alternative if looking to write screenplays but would like to expand your skill set and open yourself up to more opportunities for employment.

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How do you become a Script Doctor

The process of script doctoring (and its close cousin script consulting) requires a thorough understanding of screenwriting. It's not something that can be taught in a class. And as with many jobs in the industry, particularly less formalized ones--getting started is more about who you are as well as the things you know.

It is necessary to climb up to this position and you may take some deviations while you determine how to get where you want to be. However, there are some things you can do to improve your odds of becoming a script doctor. Here are two of them.

Find a Writing or Film Degree

Film degrees or a writing degree can both serve as helpful stepping stones to editing scripts. That being said, they're not the complete minimal of what's demanded of you.

Screenwriters called script doctors have proven their competency and have proven successes to show for all of their dedication. While it's not sufficient by itself, having an education in film or writing isn't a bad thing, and may open doors for screenwriting jobs which you would not have access to previously.

If your goal is writing scripts, think of the degree program as a useful instrument, not a guaranteed ticket to stardom. There's a wealth of valuable skills at school, and you may also be able to get an apprenticeship or internship which will help you get closer to where you want to get to.

Earn Industry Experience

As with many of the most sought-after roles like most coveted roles in Hollywood, becoming a script doctor isn't impossible however, it's certainly not going be done in a matter of minutes. Keep your end aim in mind when you seek out other industry-relevant knowledge, and take every step that you can off to develop your screenwriting talents and learn the elements that make a great script.

Average Script Doctor Salary

How much do script doctors make? Based on ZipRecruiter The national average for a script doctor is $105,349, but some best script physicians are making in up to $400,000 each week.

Obviously, more script doctors are going to find themselves making the standard salary, rather than the top-tier pay; and some, such as those working in low-budget film productions from lesser-known studios, will make lesser. Make sure you diversify your income while you work your way up, and set realistic income targets that correspond to your level of experience.

Strategies for Finding Script Doctor Jobs

Script doctors are typically called in by studios and are hired on a contractual basis rather than in a staff. You won't be sending off your CV to doctors who script job listings on the internet, however there are steps you can take to increase your chances of one day being an on-call doctor.

Get an Agent

You'll need to work as screenwriter in order to become a script doctor, and both jobs will require that you have an agent. Make use of the WGA as a source for finding possible agents, and remember that you'll work to get representation. Start by stepping foot into the industry door, then work on finding an agent, and then converting that into additional gigs.

You can write and market your own Works

Network With Industry Insiders

It's a lot easier to do than say We recognize. But the greater the number of people you have working in the business, the better shot to get more opportunities. Mix, mingle and schmooze with the best of them. Then, be sure to respond "yes" to any relevant possibilities that come to you.

The Script Doctor. the Script Consultant. Story Analyst

As you look into how to begin your journey as a script physician, you're likely to find two titles that are similar that include script consultant and story analyst. Both of these positions can provide valuable experience in the future of script doctoring, yet they're very distinct. The biggest thing that sets these two roles apart is that they consult on and analyzing scripts don't require any actual writing. These professionals do more reading and advice-giving than actual hands-on work, providing notes that are later added to rewrites in contrast to doing the rewrites themselves.

If you're passionate about screenwriting and want to expand your screenwriting skills in new directions, these jobs would be worthy of consideration. Likewise, script consulting and/or story analysis could be useful when you are looking into script editing jobs, so if are given the chance to test these out, do it.

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