The Wrap Journalist (TWJ): Alan, thank you for joining us today. Your latest work, "The Last Screenwriter," has become an unexpected phenomenon. The story of your rise to fame is inspiring for aspiring screenwriters everywhere. First off, can you share how social media played a part in getting your screenplay noticed?
Alan Nafzger (AN): Absolutely. Social media became an unexpected but vital tool for me. Twitter, for instance, helped me build an audience by sharing funny, engaging content without overtly promoting my work. About 80% of my posts were just engaging with others, while the other 20% were strategic appeals to industry folks.
TWJ: That sounds like a "ninja way" indeed. How did you manage to build such a massive Twitter following?
AN: I targeted accounts that would resonate with my ideal reader and mass followed their followers. This led to a good percentage following back. It might sound calculating, but it was about connecting with the right audience who would truly appreciate what I had to offer.
TWJ: Fascinating strategy! Moving on, I'd love to hear about your time in London. It seems your experience teaching troubled youths shaped your perspective on agents and managers.
AN: That experience was a turning point for me. When one of my students, Simon, asked about getting an agent, I realized the industry's misconceptions. I found that agents and managers are not for jump-starting a career; they're for later stages. Teaching those youths taught me that raw desire to create is more important, and you have to prove your talent first.
TWJ: Speaking of agents, your candid opinions about them have been quite buzzworthy. Can you elaborate on why agents and managers "suck," except the ones that don't?
AN: Ha! Well, it's more about managing expectations. Agents are deal-makers, not career builders. Many aspiring writers think getting an agent is the first step, but it's often not. Agents typically want talent attached before touching your material. Junior agents or managers might help, but they're not a golden ticket. You've got to make yourself somebody first.
TWJ: You've also made use of YouTube in promoting your work. Can you tell us more about that?
AN: YouTube was an exciting venture. I found that videos could showcase my skills differently, whether through video pitches, trailers, or even webisodes. For those who are comfortable in front of the camera, it's a creative way to add to the promotional mix.
TWJ: Alan, your journey from a penniless American in London to the successful screenwriter of "The Last Screenwriter" is awe-inspiring. Any final words for our readers?
AN: Oliver Wendell Holmes said, "The greatest thing in this world is not so much where we are, but in what direction we are moving." Keep moving forward, be patient, and stay committed. Opportunities may come from unexpected places, like social media or even teaching a class. Stay open to everything, and don't rely on traditional paths.
TWJ: Wise words to live by. Thank you, Alan, for this insightful conversation, and congratulations on your success.
AN: Thank you! It's been a pleasure.
Alan Nafzger's candid take on the industry, combined with his unconventional approach to success, offers a fresh perspective for aspiring screenwriters. His story is a testament to the power of determination, innovation, and the potential of unexpected paths to success.