Screenwriter's Toolbox
The Professional Screenwriter’s Promotional Toolbox
It’s paramount for every aspiring screenwriter to be equipped with essential promotional tools. The erstwhile “Hollywood Creative Directory” isn’t one of them. Here are the key resources for the modern screenwriter:
IMDb Pro Subscription: This provides invaluable contact details for agents and managers of industry stalwarts. Budget constraints? Exploit free trials using different emails.
Example: Using IMDb Pro to find the agent of a prominent actor like Chris Hemsworth.
Example: Browsing IMDb Pro to discover up-and-coming directors or producers.
Example: Utilizing IMDb Pro's networking events or webinars.
An L.A. Phone Number: This is effortlessly achieved through a Google Voice account, opting for the 310 or 213 area codes.
Example: Obtaining a Google Voice number with a 310 area code to call film studios.
Example: Receiving callbacks from potential collaborators who prefer L.A. local numbers.
Example: Using your L.A. number on all promotional materials for consistency.
Professional Business Card: Incorporate your L.A. number, email, and specialized screenwriting social media profiles.
Example: A sleek black card with a minimalist design highlighting your screenplay genre.
Example: A QR code on the card, leading to your online screenwriting portfolio.
Example: Featuring a notable quote from one of your screenplays.
Effective Communication Skills: It’s okay to be nervous. Remember, feign confidence until genuine confidence takes hold.
Example: Pitching your script confidently to a producer over a casual coffee meetup.
Example: Networking at a screenwriter’s convention and sharing insights.
Example: Handling criticism gracefully during a script reading session.
Is Your Script Hollywood-ready?
If you've chosen this book, we’ll assume you’ve penned a full-fledged screenplay (ideally between 90-115 pages). We hope it’s stellar and checks the following boxes:
A protagonist facing an intense dilemma.
The protagonist venturing well beyond their comfort realm.
At least three gripping set pieces.
A formidable antagonist.
An original, intriguing premise.
Undertaken a minimum of three rewrites.
If not, refine these elements before proceeding.
Example: A protagonist, a detective, is coerced into working with a criminal he once incarcerated to solve a bigger crime.
Example: Set pieces include a dramatic heist in a museum, an intense car chase through L.A.'s streets, and a climactic face-off on a rooftop.
Example: The antagonist is a crime lord who was once the detective's partner.
Example: An unexpected twist where senior spies are forced to undergo training under teenagers when tech takes over espionage.
Example: After the second rewrite, ensuring the introduction isn’t too prolonged and that the climax is satisfactory.
Refining Your Masterpiece
Before you dream of handing your script to CAA, let’s perfect it:
Script Enhancement Phase 1: Gathering Varied Feedback
Identify five individuals (not necessarily from the industry) to critique your script. They should be movie aficionados with a keen eye for quality. Encourage candid feedback and be ready to revise based on recurring critique points.
Example: Asking your college professor who teaches film studies.
Example: Consulting with a local book club that occasionally delves into scripts.
Example: Getting insights from a friend who's an avid moviegoer and known for their critical views.
Script Enhancement Phase 2: Staging a Mock Presentation
Collaborate with local theater groups for a staged reading of your script. This provides insights on dialogue flow, audience engagement, and scene dynamics.
Example: Collaborating with a drama club from a local university for a reading.
Example: Hosting a script-reading evening at a community hall, inviting locals to be the audience.
Example: Asking theater actors to give feedback, especially about the dialogues and character dynamics.
Script Enhancement Phase 3: Professional Review
With significant improvements made, it's time to approach an industry professional. Whether you opt for a seasoned script consultant or a production company insider, the focus should be on aligning with industry standards, not immediate sales.
Example: Hiring a script consultant from websites like The Black List or Script Reader Pro.
Example: Approaching a junior story editor from a mid-sized production house, inquiring about their reading services.
Example: Attending a screenwriting workshop and seeking a review from the facilitator.
Remember, every script is a labor of love and perseverance. Fine-tuning it with the right resources ensures your story gets the spotlight it deserves.