thanksfortheread

Notes you can actually use.

Professional writer-to-writer critical feedback to give you clarity and keep your script moving where you want to go.

No faceless readers. No random scores. No magic lists. No judgment. A working TV writer reads your script, not software.

I’m Matt MacLennan. I’ve been giving real notes for 26 years and have been a juror for the International Emmy Awards for over ten.

I’ve gone from staff writer to co-executive producer with 40+ episodes on 17 television shows for 24 seasons, feature films that were produced and a AAA videogame that shipped. I’ve been developing IP and mentoring writers for decades.

Send your script

Real notes, on my own pilot. Read all 21 pages (PDF)

What you get

Story editing notes, tailored to your script and you as a writer. The same caliber of work I deliver in writing rooms and to colleagues. Coverage is written for producers. These notes are written for you, the writer.

  • Where your writing and your script excel.
  • Real notes on the core problems you can fix and options to get the work done.
  • Specific notes: storylines, characters, relationships, pacing, dialogue, the world of your script and any specific concerns you tell me about when you send your script.
  • A roadmap of practical advice and exercises you can use.

Your script is yours.

I keep your script only until your notes and follow-ups are done, then I delete it. I don’t share it with anyone. I don’t steal ideas. I don’t take credit. I don’t fake guarantees.

Why me

Whether your draft is a complete mess or nearly there, I can help. I’ve been doing this for 26 years and have served as a juror for the International Emmy Awards since 2015.

From staff writer to co-executive producer on 17 television shows for 24 seasons, I have written 40+ episodes (all produced), written several films and adaptations (two produced), a AAA videogame and mobile games that shipped.

I have developed IP and mentored writers on shows and through the writers guild for decades.

Deals with: AMC, Netflix, ABC, NBCUniversal, The CW, Disney Channel, TeenNick, ION, Oxygen, The N, Audience Network, CBC, CTV, Global, HBO, Family Channel and Showcase.

Full credits and awards

Pricing

Each level is a full read of your whole script. Notes within 7 days.

$250
Full Notes. I read your whole script and write you a full set of notes, built around the one change I think will do the most for your next draft, with exercises to try. One follow-up question.
$550
Full Notes, In Depth. Everything in Full Notes, plus up to three core notes with options and exercises, and up to three follow-up questions.

Follow-up questions by email, within 30 days of your notes.

Send your script

Questions?

For story consulting, story editing and development work, email me.