Script Management & Formatting
For Secure Script Storage and Distribution, refer to the Security article.
Script Management
Prod Co must assign a Script Manager to track the script changes, verify proper formatting, manage script file storage, and secure script distribution. The Production Script Manager is the only person who should access the Production Script folder on the Amazon Prime Video (“APV”) approved platform.
- Prod Co shall provide APV with copies of all script drafts via AV Approved Platform.
- All scripts must be watermarked with the AV-approved watermark.
- No person may receive a script before they have signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).
- Scripts may not be printed unless APV Production Executive gives specific approval. Printed Scripts are high-risk physical assets and must be cared for according to the associated physical asset management policies.
Copyright Notice on Scripts
- All versions of scripts must have a copyright notice on the title page. Refer to the Copyright Policy for the correct notice.
Script Formatting
Production must include the title page; an example is below in the templates and exhibits section.
- Script title page must include the following: original source material and writer (if applicable), current draft writer(s), number and date of the current draft, previous draft numbers, dates and writer(s), and Copyright notice.
- Script headers must include Draft Numbers, Date, Page Number, and Color.
- Script footers must include Showcode (once issued) and Property of “Copyright owner.”
Script Revision Drafts
Script revisions/drafts will be identified by #, date
Creative Deliverables
Creative - Scripted
Pilot and Series downloadable guides are found here.
Deliverables required during Development
- Timeline for Delivery of Creative Materials
- Series Bible – Including Logline, Synopsis, Character Sketches, Episodic Outlines, Directors’ Note, Treatment, Indicative Cast, Possible Subsequent Season Arc.
- Step Outlines/Beat-sheets – These should include all major plot and character beats for each episode, which can then further be fleshed out at screenplay stage.
- Screenplay Drafts of all episodes
- Consistent Content Standard Review Reports throughout.
Once these deliverables have been met, the title will be considered ready for the Pre-Greenlight Process. During the Pre-GL phase the key requirements are – 60% screenplay readiness, Locked Key Cast and Locked Budget. Once these parameters are met, the title can be greenlit.
Deliverables required before the start of Production:
- Final dialogue drafts of all episodic screenplays. (Post Content Standards review, with changes incorporated)
- Approval from APV Creative Executive on Primary and Secondary Cast and Key Crew/HODs.
- Visibility on Locations, Shoot Schedule, Final Hair & Make Up + Costume looks, Key Production Design Plans, Props, Art References, Cinematic – Look & Feel, Music References.
Creative - Unscripted
Deliverables required before the start of Production:
- Taster Tape (Sizzle)(Optional in India)
- A short video outlining the premise for the show, usually constructed of various archive footage and graphics to provide a flavor of what to expect in the series. It can also be specially filmed for AS to showcase key contributors and the creative vision for the show.
- Series Treatment
- A detailed document outlining the format for the show, an episode breakdown for the series, key locations, access required, and a statement on the creative vision and desired tone for the series.
- Access
- Detailing the access for any key cast/personnel/locations required to make the show and the challenges this may cause.
- Key Talent
- Any potential A-list talent or department heads crucial to the project.
- Where applicable, for Host Options, the Prod Co should provide a list of 3 top-tier (potentially “hard to get”) talent and more accessible, mid-level talent.
- Duty of Care Plan
- The plan to guarantee the physical and psychological safety & well-being of the cast.
- Proposed Senior Production Team
- Amazon Studios can often ask if any key heads of departments are attached to the project. These can include Director, Costume Designer, Production Designer, and Director of Photography, among many other roles.
- Location Options
- A detailed list of where the show intends to film and whether there will need to be set construction or it will film purely on location. This can also detail out any necessary recces for the show.
- Archive Footage
- A detailed list of any required archive footage for the series.
Creative Templates & Exhibits
Script Title Page Example
Script_Title_Page_Example20220330.pdf
Pilot & Series Guides
Pilot Structure Guide
AS_Pilot_Structure_Guide20221005.pdf
Series Bible Guide