Screenwriter-director Jessica Bendinger, whose writing credits include Bring It On (2000), The Truth About Charlie (2002), First Daughter (2004), and Stick It (2006), is partnering up with Final Draft scriptwriting software for a unique adaptation competition using Bendinger’s debut novel, The Seven Rays. The competition is the first of its kind:

In anticipation of the release of her new book The Seven Rays, celebrated screenwriter Jessica Bendinger (BRING IT ON, STICK IT, AQUAMARINE) along with Final Draft is launching “Script-a-Scene,” a first-of-its-kind screenplay adaptation contest. Participants can enter the contest by reading The Seven Rays, by choosing any scene from the book and adapting it into a 2-5 page screenplay using the Final Draft screenwriting software (free demo available for download on the Final Draft website). The contest opens on November 15, 2009 at 12:00am EST and closes on February 15, 2010 at 12:00am PST. The Grand Prize winner will get a personal, one-on-one script consultation for any screenplay they have written with Jessica Bendinger, valued at $10,000. Five (5) second place winners will have the opportunity to pitch their unique original work to a producer, agent, development executive, and Jessica Bendinger via iChat or Skype. (iChat or Skype interview with Jessica Bendinger is subject to talent availability. All prize details are at Sponsor’s sole discretion). Ten (10) third place runners-up will receive a copy of the Final Draft script writing software, valued at $249.

The contest presents an interactive opportunity for screenwriters of all ages to tap their creative efforts and gain exposure to the professional screenwriting world. Winners will receive personalized consultation from accomplished writer-director, Jessica Bendinger.

“Even though it’s a novel, The Seven Rays has so many cinematic elements to it,” said Bendinger. “I thought it would be fun to see how writers would bring it to life, as I am so close to it. This contest also gives me an opportunity to mentor and foster the work of aspiring screenwriters, which is something I love do. It’s challenging for new writers outside the industry to receive valuable insider feedback. I look forward to sharing my expertise and insights with the worthy finalists.”

For more information, go here. And here is the book’s website, where you can download the first chapter.