Anyone Ever Written A Screenplay?

[daveco]

And if so, did anything come of it?

I've just finished a screenplay that I've had stewing for some time. From looking at agents and firms they don't appear to accept unsolicited work; all screenplays have to be accompanied by a cover letter from someone within the industry, which is understandable.

[daveco]

Mars said:

I've been writing a movie for about 8 years. I've not got very far... a overall story arc, a few characters, and only 4 separate scenes.

I doubt I'll ever finish it. The idea I had, which was strong in my mind at the time, seems very much watered down these days... as though my inspiration has waned.

The thing is all literary and screen agents don't take unsolicited work either so what do I do?? I was thinking of making it into a novel as well as the screenplay has given me the structure, key scenes and dialogue.

[daveco]

Mars said:

My plan was to get a friend to storyboard it - he's a fabulous cartoon artist. I'd share the credits with him on that basis because it'd take him at least as long to do his part as it would have taken me to write the words.

Then, if I couldn't get any interest from anyone in the industry, I was going to have a go at filming some of the more exciting scenes with a digital video camera - I know someone with one of those almost-broadcast-quality Sony cameras (I haven't asked if he'd lend it to me though), and then pitch it at the industry again.

If that failed, I would either try to gain investment and become a film maker (of a film no-one would probably want to watch), or we'd package up the storyboard and sell it as a book (most likely).

Or fail completely.

I like the initiative! I heard there's a directory you can buy with all the U.S. agents out there for around $100. I'm not 100% sure though, you'd think they'd at least like to see a brief synopsis of the work; I have faith in my story and they bloody well should too!

[daveco]

StevieBee said:

RJDM3 said:

Its catch 22, many of the companies have no wish to speak with you via an agent or otherwise unless you have the financial backing in place to make it.

Been working with a chap for the past three years on a screenplay/story/concept for a children's animated film series (TV). It's going to pilot and being produced. The budget for two, 5 min shows is £250,000, of which, he has had to put in over £40,000.

How did you get the screenplay read Steve? I have zero contacts in the industry

[daveco]

Thanks for the info chaps I'd really like to get things moving before I start on yet another draft.

I've just registered on The Artist's and Writer's Yearbook website; looks promising!