Variety: Good day, Alan! Congratulations on the success of "The Last Screenwriter". Before we dig into the depths of your screenplay, tell us about the tools you used to make it big in the industry. We've heard that IMDb Pro was a game-changer for you?
Alan Nafzger: Absolutely! A subscription to IMDb Pro was invaluable. It not only gave me access to a treasure trove of industry contacts but also helped me understand the trends and collaborations in the film industry. The free trials came in handy when I was on a tight budget.
Variety: What other tools did you deem essential when trying to establish yourself in Hollywood?
Alan Nafzger: An L.A. phone number, for sure. Having a 310 or 213 area code subtly communicates that you're within the industry loop. Google Voice made it easy. And of course, a professional-looking business card was a must - it's an extension of your brand, after all.
Variety: Moving on to "The Last Screenwriter", how did you ensure it was ready for Hollywood's discerning eyes?
Alan Nafzger: First and foremost, the story had to be compelling. It had to contain elements like dilemma, set pieces, a strong antagonist, and an original premise. After ensuring these basics, I went through at least three rewrites, refining every bit of the screenplay.
Variety: How did you vet your script to ensure it was, as you put it, 'awesome'?
Alan Nafzger: Well, I relied on the ScriptBully 3-Phase “Make Your Script Awesome” Process. First, I sought opinions - ranging from friends, family to the local newspaper guy. Feedback from diverse people is crucial. Secondly, I arranged a staged reading at a regional theatre company, which was illuminating. Lastly, I engaged professionals, from script consultants to production company insiders, to give it a thorough critique.
Variety: You mentioned bribery when getting people to read your script. Care to elaborate?
Alan Nafzger: Ah, yes! It's essential to show appreciation to anyone dedicating their time to read your work. Whether it's a bottle of wine or a simple dinner, a token of gratitude can go a long way. It ensures they invest time and provide valuable feedback.
Variety: What about the feedback that hurts?
Alan Nafzger: You need to develop a thick skin in this business. Genuine feedback is gold. If multiple readers point out the same flaw, it's an area for improvement. I wanted my script to be the best version of itself, and that meant taking every criticism constructively.
Variety: And your thoughts on script consultants?
Alan Nafzger: Some may dismiss them, but I think they're valuable. They offer an industry perspective that's unmatched. While I'd advise not going overboard with the expenses, a good consultant like Linda Seger or Michael Hauge can give insights that you might not have considered.
Variety: One last question. Would you say Victor Hugo's quote, "An invasion of armies can be resisted, but not an idea whose time has come," resonates with your journey?
Alan Nafzger: Absolutely. In Hollywood, a timely idea that resonates can be unstoppable. My goal with "The Last Screenwriter" was to bring forth such an idea, and I'm thrilled it found its moment.
Variety: Thank you for your time, Alan. Your journey is truly inspiring for every budding screenwriter out there.
Alan Nafzger: It was my pleasure. Remember, it's about persistence, refining your craft, and believing in your story. All the best to those on their screenwriting journey!