Online video has created enormous opportunities for undiscovered talent to make it big (e.g. Justin Bieber), and this week Break Media and Scripped.com announced a contest that offers them yet another shot. The "Break's Big Break" (say that 10 times fast!) contest asks up-and-coming screenwriters to submit their script, which will be judged by a panel including Ed Burns, Steven De Souza and Break executives. The winning script will be developed and distributed by Break and five finalists will also receive $500 for their efforts.
The idea is well-aligned with Break's renewed emphasis on original content, and also helps position it as a breeding ground for new talent. In the old days, an up-and-comer was up against long odds of a studio taking interest; now, with online video contests like this along with the industry professional constantly prowling YouTube for the next big thing, it's getting ever-easier to get noticed.