Script Reader Job Overview: How to Become a Script Reader

A script reader is an individual who reads and reviews spec scripts (uncommissioned and unproduced film and television screenplays). The script reader writes reports, also known as script coverage, that detail the positive and negative qualities of these screenplays. Many entertainment industry entities use script readers, including filmmakers, development executives at production companies, talent management companies, screenwriting fellowships from film schools, and screenplay competitions. There are also script coverage services, which employ professional screenwriters or readers to analyze scripts.

While interns or assistants at production companies typically handle script reading, many Hollywood studios also pay freelance readers to provide script reports. Freelancers may also become story analysts by joining the Motion Picture Editors’ Union.

A script reader’s salary range depends on their position: Interns are usually unpaid positions, while entry-level freelancers earn between twenty-five and sixty dollars per script based on their level of experience. However, union story analysts receive union minimums of around forty dollars per hour on average. Script coverage is part of the weekly or hourly wages that full-time, entry-level assistants earn in the film industry.

A script reader performs several specific tasks as part of script coverage, including:

• Read scripts: Script readers often read submissions of feature film and television scripts on a daily basis. Each script may take up to four hours to complete, and most readers take two complete passes at each script.
• Provide coverage: Script coverage includes basic information about the script, like the author’s name and the story genre, a one-sentence logline, or story synopsis. The script reader also provides a one- to two-page summary of the complete screenplay and script notes that detail their review of the various elements. Script coverage concludes with one of three ratings: pass, or reject the script; consider, or give the script or writer another look; and recommend, a rare rating reserved for great scripts that need studio execs’ full attention.
• Other duties: If a script reader is an intern or assistant, they will also handle duties respective to those positions, including fielding phone calls, writing and responding to emails and other correspondence, and getting lunch, among other tasks.

There are several ways to become a script reader. The career path may begin with:

• Education and experience: A degree in writing or experience with writing your own scripts is not essential to becoming a script reader. However, a background in or familiarity with fiction and scriptwriting gives you perspective on their construction and an advantage over other prospective script readers. Understanding screenplay structure and format is also beneficial; many screenwriting books provide detailed information on the subject.
• Internship: Internships are sometimes unpaid positions that provide job aspirants with crucial experience in their field. Many script reader positions begin as internships, and while the majority of these require enrollment in a college or university, some companies also offer them to nonstudents.
• Sample coverage: Writing sample coverage of a script has two advantages: It allows you to practice and hone your coverage skills and provides you with examples of your work to show prospective employers. While any spec script will suffice for a sample, many veteran script readers recommend using coverage of a produced script, as it shows your ability to understand and break down well-known and proven material.
• Networking: Script reader jobs are highly sought-after positions; you need research skills and diligence to find them. Most, if not all, script reading jobs are in entertainment industry hubs, like Los Angeles or New York, so you may need to relocate. Once there, connections within the industry are essential, but searches on job boards can turn up possible leads. Social media groups may also provide insight and encouragement.

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