Crafting a standout film and TV coverage report requires a mix of structured analysis and insightful critique. For your convenience, you can make a copy of our comprehensive coverage report template here. 

When dealing with high volumes of submissions, internal readers often record concise notes rather than full coverage reports, summarizing key screenplay aspects for efficient evaluation. This approach balances the need to get through lots of submissions with providing essential insights for decision-making. 

Ovassa’s submissions functionality gives you the flexibility to store either quick notes, or attach full coverage reports if you need.

Our comprehensive template encompasses all the essential components for a thorough evaluation:

• Cover Page: Includes basic information like the title, writer’s name(s), representatives, draft date/version, and the person preparing the coverage.
• Logline: A concise summary of the script’s core storyline and concept.
• Rights Availability: Status of the script rights, whether available or taken.
• Recommendation: Your verdict on whether the script warrants further consideration.
• Aspect Ratings and Comments: Critical evaluation of key script aspects.
• Synopsis: A concise plot summary, highlighting key events, characters, and the overall story arc.
• Detailed Analysis Sections: In-depth assessment areas including:
  • Concept Analysis: Originality, genre clichés, commercial prospects, target audience.
  • Structure & Execution: Plotting, pacing, structural analysis, plot holes, and momentum issues.
  • Characterizations: Analysis of main/supporting characters, character arcs, authenticity, representation.
  • Dialogue Critique: Evaluation of flow, consistency, period/genre appropriateness.
  • Tone Evaluation: Examination of mood consistency and tone shifts.
  • Market Potential Estimate: Assessment of production scope, budget range, comparables, demographic appeal.
  • Alignment with Company Goals: How the script fits with the company’s mission and objectives.
  • Writer’s Voice and Style: Assessing the uniqueness and effectiveness of the writer’s voice and style.
  • Additional Notes: Other observations, such as cinematic potential and specific improvement suggestions.
• Overall Recommendations: Summary of the script’s strengths, weaknesses, improvement areas, and market positioning suggestions.

In the following sections, we’ll explore how to effectively use each section.

Cover Page

Purpose

Provides essential information, including the reader’s overall recommendation.

Key Elements

• Title of the screenplay
• Writer’s name(s)
• Representatives (if applicable)
• Draft date/version of the script
• Name of the person preparing the coverage
• Rights availability (if applicable) – (Available, Optioned, Under contract, In development, Produced)
• Overall recommendation – (Pass, Consider, Pursue)
• Summary of areas of critical analysis, along with rating

Tips

• Clarity and brevity are key. Ensure all information is accurate and easy to read.
• Executives should get 80% of what they need to know from this page.

Ovassa’s smart search functionality helps filter & sort high volumes of submissions by indexing these essential components, thus streamlining the process of organizing and analyzing key coverage elements.

Logline

Purpose

The logline is a crucial element that concisely conveys the core of the screenplay. It’s often provided with the submission, but in cases where it’s not, the reader should craft one that captures the script’s essence effectively. As you probably know, crafting an effective logline is an art unto itself.

Key Elements

• A brief, one to two-sentence summary encapsulating the primary conflict, characters, and unique hook of the story.
• Should be engaging and reflect the tone and genre of the screenplay.

Tips

• If provided: Evaluate the given logline for clarity and intrigue. Does it accurately represent the script and pique interest?
• If not provided: Create a logline that:
  • Focuses on the main conflict and the protagonist’s journey.
  • Is concise – keep it brief yet descriptive. Aim for a sentence that anyone can grasp quickly.
  • Aligns with the script’s tone and genre, giving a sense of what to expect.
  • Sparks interest – include elements that make the story unique and intriguing without giving away too much.
  • Avoids clichés – steer clear of vague or overused phrases. Be specific to the story you’re summarizing.

The logline, whether provided or created, is a pivotal piece of the coverage report. It sets the stage for the reader’s expectations and can often be a deciding factor in whether the screenplay garners further interest.

Synopsis

Purpose

Provides a clear and concise summary of the script’s plot. As the story unfolds, it highlights key turning points, challenges faced by the characters, and how these drive the story forward. It’s important to include how the story ends, detailing the resolution of the main conflict and the final state of the principal characters.

Balance detail with brevity. Provide enough detail to give a good understanding of the plot without overwhelming the reader. The synopsis should follow the script’s chronological order for clarity, but it’s also important to call out any non-linear storytelling elements that are key features of the script. Maintaining an objective tone is crucial; the synopsis should focus on what happens in the story, rather than subjective interpretations or judgments.

Highlight pivotal scenes or moments that are crucial for understanding the story’s progression or character development. If the script relies on major twists or reveals, mention these in a way that indicates their importance without giving them away. 

Concept Analysis

This part of the report should evaluate the originality of the concept, its adherence to or deviation from genre clichés, its commercial viability, and its appeal to the intended audience.

Originality

Assess how the screenplay stands out in terms of its premise, storyline, or approach. Consider whether it offers a fresh perspective or a unique twist on familiar themes. Originality can be a key selling point in an often saturated market.

Genre Clichés/Derivatives

Determine whether the script offers new insights into its genre or feels derivative. Does it challenge genre conventions, or does it rely heavily on well-worn tropes? 

Commercial Prospects

Evaluate the script’s potential success in the current market. Consider factors like genre popularity, trends in the industry, and potential appeal to production companies, financiers, streamers, networks and distributors. Consider the markets, mediums, and franchise potential if applicable. 

Target Audience

Identify the primary audience for the script. This could be based on factors like age group, interests, or cultural backgrounds. Understanding the target audience is crucial in assessing how well the script will resonate with viewers and its potential reach.

Structure and Execution

This section delves into the technical aspects of the screenplay, focusing on its plotting and pacing, overall structure, and any plot holes or momentum issues. This analysis is crucial as it directly impacts the narrative’s effectiveness and the audience’s engagement with the story.

Plotting and Pacing

Examine how the story unfolds and whether it maintains a consistent and engaging rhythm. Consider if the plot is well-constructed, with events and developments that logically flow from one to another. Examine pacing – is it too rushed, dragging, or does it keep the audience engaged from start to finish?

Structure Analysis 

Does the screenplay follow a traditional three-act structure, or does it use a non-linear or unconventional format? Evaluate how well this structure serves the story, and whether it enhances or detracts from the overall narrative.

Plot Holes/Momentum Issues

Identify any inconsistencies, gaps in the storyline, or unresolved plot elements that could confuse or disengage the audience. Assess if there are any points where the story loses its momentum, causing potential issues with audience retention or satisfaction.

This section not only helps in identifying areas that might need reworking but also sheds light on the writer’s skill in constructing a cohesive and compelling narrative. A well-structured screenplay with a well-paced plot is fundamental to its success.

Characterizations

Here the report will analyze the depth, development, and diversity of the characters in the screenplay. 

Character Analysis (Protagonist, Antagonist, Supporting)

Evaluate each key character in terms of their development, motivations, and the roles they play in the story. The protagonist should ideally be well-rounded and evoke empathy or interest from the audience. Similarly, assess the antagonist and their effectiveness in opposing the protagonist’s goals. Supporting characters should also be evaluated for their contribution to the story and relationships with main characters.

Character Arcs

Look at the journey of the main characters. Do they undergo significant growth or change? Are these developments believable and impactful? Effective character arcs can significantly enhance the audience’s emotional investment in the story.

Authenticity and Depth

Assess whether the characters are multidimensional and authentic. Consider if they have distinct voices, backgrounds, and personalities that make them stand out as real and relatable individuals rather than stereotypes.

Cultural Accuracy and Sensitivity

Evaluate the script’s portrayal of characters from different cultural or social backgrounds. It’s important that these representations are respectful, accurate, and contribute positively to the diversity of the narrative.

Representation of Diverse Perspectives

Analyze the range of perspectives presented through the characters. Does the script provide a varied portrayal of gender, race, age, and other aspects of identity? This diversity can broaden the script’s appeal and relevance.

The goal is to convey how the characters contribute to the overall effectiveness of the story and whether they have the necessary depth and complexity to engage an audience. Strong, well-developed characters are essential for a screenplay to resonate with its audience.

Dialogue Critique

Dialogue is an element that significantly contributes to character development and the overall narrative quality. Effective dialogue can enhance the believability and impact of the story, while poor dialogue can detract from even the best-plotted script.

Flow and Consistency

Evaluate the naturalness and rhythm of the dialogue. Does it flow smoothly, or does it feel stilted and unnatural? Consistency is key; the dialogue should maintain its quality and style throughout the script, contributing to the story’s pacing and mood.

Character-Specific Language

Analyze whether the dialogue is tailored to each character. Each character should have a unique voice that reflects their background, personality, and current situation. This distinctiveness in dialogue helps in creating more rounded, believable characters.

Period/Genre Appropriateness

Assess the dialogue in terms of its fit with the script’s period and genre. For historical or period pieces, the dialogue should accurately reflect the time period’s language style, while also being accessible to contemporary audiences. In genre-specific scripts, like science fiction or fantasy, the dialogue should align with the world-building elements and genre conventions.

When critiquing dialogue, it’s beneficial to provide specific examples from the script that illustrate your points. The aim is to highlight how the dialogue contributes to the overall effectiveness of the story, enhancing character development, and maintaining audience engagement. 

Tone Evaluation

In this section, consider the consistency of mood and the effectiveness of any shifts in tone. The tone sets the atmosphere of the script and plays a crucial role in shaping the audience’s emotional response.

Mood Consistency: 

A consistent mood helps in setting the right expectations for the audience and contributes to a cohesive narrative experience. However, this doesn’t mean the tone can’t vary; it’s about how these variations are managed. Assess whether changes in mood complement the story’s development or feel jarring and out of place.

Tone Shifts: 

Look at any intentional shifts in tone and how effectively they are executed. Tone shifts, when done well, can add depth and complexity to the story, but they need to be handled skillfully to avoid confusing the audience. Consider whether these shifts are aligned with plot developments and character arcs, and whether they enhance the overall storytelling.

The goal is to assess whether the screenplay achieves the desired emotional impact through its use of tone and whether it maintains the audience’s engagement from start to finish. 

Market potential estimate

This section should evaluate the screenplay’s viability and appeal in the current market landscape. This assessment is crucial for understanding the potential success of the script from a commercial standpoint.

Production Scope 

Analyze the scale and complexity of the script in terms of production requirements. Consider the settings, special effects, and overall production design. 

Budget Range

Estimate the potential budget range needed to produce the script. This includes considerations of cast, locations, set designs, special effects, and post-production. Assess if the script’s potential returns justify its budget requirements, and opportunities to produce the screenplay on a smaller or larger scale if changes were to be made to the screenplay.

Comparables

Identify similar films or TV shows in terms of genre, theme, or narrative style. Comparables help in gauging the script’s potential market performance based on the success of these similar works. Assess if the market is saturated with similar content, or if there is a gap that this script could fill.

Positioning in Current Market 

Evaluate how the script fits into current market trends and audience preferences. Is it timely? Does it offer something new or needed in the current entertainment landscape?

Demographic Appeal

Identify the primary audience demographics for the script. Consider age groups, interests, cultural backgrounds, and how these factors align with current audience trends and preferences.

In this section, providing a well-reasoned, data-supported analysis is key. The goal is to offer a realistic view of the script’s commercial potential, considering current market trends and comparable works. 

Alignment with your company’s goals and mission

Consider how well the screenplay aligns with the specific objectives, values, and artistic direction of your company. 

Fit with Mission/Artistic Goals

Does it resonate with the themes, styles, or types of stories your company seeks to produce? Consider whether the script reflects the artistic integrity, creative aspirations, or storytelling approach that your company champions.

Alignment with Cultural/Business Objectives

This includes considering the script’s potential to meet commercial targets, appeal to your established audience base, or expand into new markets. It’s also about assessing whether the script’s content and message align with your company’s cultural values and social responsibility goals.

Writer’s voice and style

Voice

A distinctive voice can manifest through unique dialogue, a particular narrative approach, or a specific tone that sets the writer apart from others. Consider whether the writer’s voice adds a unique flavor to the story, making it more memorable and engaging.

Style

Does the style enhance the script’s themes, character development, and plot? Is it consistent throughout the script, and does it help in building a connection with the audience? The effectiveness of the style should be judged by how well it serves the story and whether it adds depth and dimension to the narrative.

A strong, distinctive writer’s voice not only elevates the script but can also be a key factor in its potential success. It’s also critical to identify talented creatives for potential future collaborations and projects, even if this screenplay might not be a fit.

Additional notes

This section allows for a broader and often more subjective analysis of the screenplay, providing an opportunity to highlight unique observations and potential suggestions for improvement.

Cinematic/Visual Potential

Consider how the script’s descriptions, settings, and action sequences lend themselves to cinematic interpretation. Are there moments in the script that could be particularly visually striking or innovative? 

Objective Analysis

This section could include comments on the script’s overall cohesiveness, potential logistical challenges in production, or any other general observations that don’t fit into the specific categories but are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the script.

Specific Observations/Suggestions

These could be recommendations for strengthening certain aspects of the story, refining characters, or adjusting dialogue. The focus should be on constructive feedback that can help in improving the script.

Overall recommendations

This part synthesizes all the observations and critiques from the previous sections into a coherent conclusion, providing clear guidance on the script’s potential and future steps.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Highlight what the screenplay does well, such as strong character development, unique plot twists, or compelling dialogue, and point out areas where it falls short, like plot inconsistencies, underdeveloped characters, or lack of originality.

Improvement Areas

These recommendations should be actionable and focused. This could involve deepening character arcs, tightening the plot, refining dialogue, or adjusting the script’s structure.

Market Positioning Suggestions

This might include targeting a specific audience, aligning the script more closely with current trends, or differentiating it from similar works. Provide suggestions on how the screenplay could be marketed or pitched to maximize its appeal and potential success.

Final Verdict

Conclude with a clear recommendation regarding the script’s potential for development. This should reflect the overall assessment of the screenplay, considering its artistic merit and commercial viability.