I like getting feedback from all types of readers. Friends, readers (coverage), and consultants, and writing groups, and ANYONE who will read my script. I find it valuable to get coverage and talk through issues with very specific people, who I WANT to compensate for their time because they are worth it. Writing is time and time is money so one can try to wing it and just start sending shitty scripts out (usually very early) or one can do their best to get a range of responses and then take the script to town when one knows it is ready.

Nayan, concur about doing what one can to avoid marketing "shitty" scripts. I think the point many pro screenwriters are making is that there are some of these consultants who charge exorbitant amounts of money per script evaluation. $500. $1000. $2000. That's a lot of money especially in light of the long odds of selling anything. There are other alternatives. There are plenty of pro script readers who provide thorough, solid feedback for $150 or less. Heck, the Black List readers, while not providing extensive feedback, give you two reads for (I think) $75. Also, too, if you can become part of a writers group and those writers have put some years into learning the craft, are serious about tracking the movie business so they have a commercially aware sensibility, and have strong story sensibilities, then you can quid pro quo feedback: They read your script, you read theirs. Assuming you're part of a good writing group, that can have great value, ongoing support throughout the scripting and rewriting process. Frankly, if someone were to choose to spend money on a consultant, I would encourage them to consider working with a skilled teacher in a workshop environment. That way, you're getting much more than a consultation, you are getting an ongoing support system during prep, first draft and/or rewrite phase. Beyond that, you will be learning principles and practices used by pro screenwriters, in effect learning the craft and preparing yourself for how to survive if your script creates an entrance point to Hollywood. I can't speak for other outfits, but that's what Tom Benedek and I do at Screenwriting Master Class. Again, it's not just about the script. It's learning how to be a screenwriter. Consultants focus on the script. Educators focus on the script AND the craft. As long as you pick the right educators, of course. More generally, I take your point: Better to get more feedback rather than little to none. Improves the chances your script won't be "shitty". The point pro writers like Mazin make is just be smart where you spend your dollars. And as always, it IS possible to learn the craft and develop into a pro writer by immersing yourself in the craft - Watch movies, Read scripts, Write pages. Learn what you can about screenwriting theory, the practice of screenwriting, the business of screenwriting... what I offer here every day on this blog. Onward!