Illinois/Chicago Screenwriting Competition Now Open

CHICAGO -- Screenplay submissions are now being accepted for the Fourth Illinois/Chicago Screenwriting Competition, a biennial event sponsored by the Illinois and Chicago Film Offices.

"This is an opportunity to showcase the talent and diversity of Illinois' film community," said Governor George H. Ryan. "We are supporting Illinois writers in their quest for recognition and production of their work by the motion picture industry."

"Chicago is becoming a 'blue chip' location for motion picture filming," added Chicago Mayor Richard Daley. "There is some excellent talent in the area and this competition will create opportunities for local writers to get the attention of major film studios."

The competition is open exclusively to Illinois residents age 18 and older. Entries will be judged by a jury system comprised of local film industry representatives and current or former Chicagoans who have written, directed or produced feature films.

The Illinois Film Office is a division of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs (DCCA). "The film industry is a vibrant part of the Illinois business community," said Director Pam McDonough. "By fostering the creative development of Illinois writers, we are helping to ensure the industry continues to thrive."

The Chicago Film Office is a division of the Mayor's Office of Special Events. "The creativity of our film community is reflected in Chicago's growth as a respected production center," said Executive Director James Law. "What better way to encourage that growth than to nurture the talents of our writers."

The semi-finalists from the first tier of judging will have the option of being added to a list that is provided to producers and production companies looking for scripts.

The finalists from the second tier of judging will receive a copy of their judges notes and have the opportunity to revise their scripts.

The winning scripts will be sent to major studios and production companies in Los Angeles.

The deadline to submit entries for the competition is April 3rd. A writer's seminar will be offered on February 5th. For a complete list of rules, regulations and an official entry form, call the competition hotline at 312/814-8711. For additional information, contact:

Ron VerKuilen

Illinois Film Office

312/814-3600

TYY: 800/814-0067

Richard Moskal

Chicago Film Office

312/744-6415

TYY: 312/744-2964