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#Scriptchat Transcript with Joey Tuccio of @Stage32's @TheHappyWriters - January 24, 2016
Tonight we talked with Joey Tuccio of The Happy Writers about pitching online and Stage 32's screenwriting contests, including their TV writers' fellowship. Enjoy! @jeannevb
- IT’S #SCRIPTCHAT O’CLOCK w Joey Tuccio of @Stage32’s @TheHappyWriters. Best site to chat is here: http://www.tchat.io/rooms/scriptchat …
- #scriptchat Thanks for having me!
- @TheHappyWriters Hellooooooo #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Joeyyyyyy how ya doin! @Stage32
- Hello all you happy people. #scriptchat
- Bookmark @TheHappyWriters page on @Stage32 to check out the specifics of how to pitch after the chat https://www.stage32.com/happy-writers #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Who said I was happy...but l should be, I finished my first draft.
- So Joey, can you give us the 411 on @TheHappyWriters? How easy is it to pitch over the internet? #scriptchat
- @writeranthonydp Way to go! #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters My first #scriptchat tonight - looking forward to it.
- I really need to find a writer's conference near me to attend. It's long overdue. #screenwriting #amwriting #scriptchat
- @PeoplesCourt79 I'm going to be updating @scriptmag site with a page for upcoming conferences & contests. #staytuned #scriptchat
- Been discovery the joy of indie films #scriptchat
- Not sure if @TheHappyWriters are having tech difficulties, but let's chat a bit about online pitching while we wait. #scriptchat
- Anyone interesting in screenwriting or filmmaking needs to join @TheHappyWriters #scriptchat
- I'm still rusty on pitching, so I'm interested in hearing anyone's thoughts about it #scriptchat
- #Scriptchat #tvwriterchat Thought you all might like this. https://twitter.com/TIME/status/691426524252213248 …
- Have any of you pitched via Skype? I haven't but I'd much rather talk over Skype than on phone when networking #whitesoftheeyes #scriptchat
- @jeannevb Maybe Skype feels more direct because you're both looking at something. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb even if you're not Skyping with video, you're both at your computers with the screen in front of you #scriptchat
- @blueneumann Pitch tip: Don't memorize a pitch. Talk about your script like you're telling a friend about a great movie you saw. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat I have. And all I can say is BE PREPARED. @jeannevb
- @blueneumann totally. Not sure if @TheHappyWriters have time limit on pitches, but I'd suggest get your pitch done in 60 seconds #scriptchat
- @jeannevb I like the chat of Skype. Though, I never used it to pitch. #scriptchat
- Hey guys! Waves #scriptchat
- how do you find a good person or company to pitch your script to? #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4: Hi Chris! #scriptchat
- I know at Austin, the pitch competition goes 90 seconds. It goes by in a hurry. @jeannevb #scriptchat
- @cecelia_tvshow you can research prod co's on IMDbPro or Hollywood Screenwriting Directory. Make sure your film is genre they do #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @blueneumann I've really pitched once to industry people, but I tried to be as relaxed and enthusiastic as possible #scriptchat
- @chilltowntv Hey! Sorry I'm late #scriptchat
@TheHappyWriters I've written all my life to help navigate emotions. Currently Historical Romance. #ScriptChat pic.twitter.com/uDZh0K4lyp- @blueneumann Hey Chris #scriptchat
- Has anyone done business with the script coverage arrive Launchpad? #scriptchat
- #scriptchat 90 seconds, sounds good to me.
- @blueneumann #scriptchat keep it conversational. be a human first and a writer second!
- I'd say that it definitely helps to know your concept, your audience, and to be relaxed yet enthusiastic when pitching it. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb #scriptchat I love the Skype sessions. You see the execs reaction and it makes it so personal!
- I have a hard time introducing or talking about myself, I wonder if that issue bleeds over into how I'd pitch #scriptchat
- @blueneumann Why do you think you have a problem introducing yourself? #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters is there a time limit to the Skype pitches? Do you help writers find appropriate execs to pitch? #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb I think for me, I just hope I don't get tongue tied while pitching. I do think on my feet a lot. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters I never know what to say, I don't think I'm that interesting. I've never been good at writing my bio #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Joey is that you? :-)
- @SarahAlexis4 @TheHappyWriters Know your material. Don't worry about making it perfect! Make it conversational. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat try to make sure the exec visualizes ur film the same way as you.
- @jeannevb @scriptmag When oh when will Nicholl open for entries? They seem to be running late this year. #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb If you think on your feet then you would be PERFECT pitching live. #scriptchat
- @JLalliWriter don't know. I haven't checked their site recently. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb I know what I want to say but it sometimes just comes out wrong. That's what I mean. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters It's 8 minutes. The pitch should be 6 minutes and leave two mins for questions. #scriptchat
- @blueneumann @TheHappyWriters The good news is that in pitching the bio should be brief. Focus on the plot. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat anyone at sundance this year?
- @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb :) Should the pitch just cover the basic idea and the characters if it was a TV or web series? #scriptchat
- Just a guess, but I'd bet the Nicholl won't open until after the Oscars. @jeannevb @JLalliWriter #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb focus A LOT on characters. Characters, tone and setting. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb As of yesterday it showed the 2015 dates. Maybe they update & open for entries tomorrow? They are late this yr. #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb yeah - I always wonder the right length when thinking TV pitch #scriptchat
- In the past 4 weeks we have seen 11 success stories! #scriptchat
- The point of pitching is to give the potential producers a sense of where the script will go so they can determine the best demo #scriptchat
- @heatherAtaylor @filmwritr4 @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb tone, logline, characters, pilot synopsis, series overview #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb @ScripTipps Definitely. Great tips. Thanks so much. #scriptchat
- @jcolinholmes Why do you think that? Nicholl tends to stick to a strict schedule. #scriptchat
- @Al_1701 and also to show the exec what kind of person YOU are. #scriptchat
- @cecelia_tvshow you can also just google movies and see who produced them. That's free. :) #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters @Al_1701 I always think more about idea but, yes, should be about writer too! #scriptchat
- RT @jeannevb: @cecelia_tvshow you can also just google movies and see who produced them. That's free. :) #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters @Al_1701 Yes, they want to know that you're collaborative and can work with their notes. #scriptchat
- @Angie_Lavallee @jeannevb @EricHaywood look up show runners and see if they have prod comps. #scriptchat
- When you do a pitch, how would you go about opening it, statement wise (other than "my show is about")? #scriptchat
- @JLalliWriter @jcolinholmes Just the amount of things the Academy is dealing with this year. Like I said - just a guess. #scriptchat
- @Angie_Lavallee here's some of @EricHaywood's thoughts on TV staffing season http://www.scriptmag.com/features/writers-room-101-tv-staffing-season … #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters We work with over 550 execs, writers can pitch from their own home via Skype, phone or written. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters I have to admit, I like working alone, but being able to talk with someone about edits would be helpful. #scriptchat
- I took a public speaking class in college several years ago and I know some people open with a question, etc. In speeches #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 #scriptchat i just say the title and.. show is about a man who discovers the cure for writers block etc...
- @filmwritr4 after establishing tone, logline and setting, jump into describing the protag and go from there. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters can you speak about writers followup w exec after a pitch or submission? How does that work? #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 opening w a question could be a good way in engaging the exec for sure! #scriptchat
- What's the difference between a pitch and a logline? #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 Nothing wrong with "it's a show about." You could also say it's SHOW A meets SHOW B but sometimes that can backfire. #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 @TheHappyWriters each exec fills out a scorecard and personalized feedback. every writer gets one after a pitch #scriptchat
- @ScripTipps @filmwritr4 I keep thinking I should say "it has this COMPONENT of SHOW A" etc to give a clearer picture #scriptchat
- I think knowing your opening scene is just as important as knowing your ending in a script. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters the turnaround time is usually 2 months. Exec replies w/ feedback & if they want to meet. #scriptchat
- @jcolinholmes Good guess. I too wondered if they had their plates full these days. Never saw Nicholl delayed before. V. odd. #scriptchat
- @mattsjanacone A pitch should be a fuller synopsis where a logline is just one line. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @TheHappyWriters Is opening a pitch with what if... a thing these days?
- @blueneumann @ScripTipps @filmwritr4 No. Execs don't like that. Just say it's X meets Y and jump into synopsis. #scriptchat
- @heatherAtaylor @ScripTipps @filmwritr4 they know that it's tonal comps and not conceptual comps so it's all good. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters does the followup go through Happy Writers instead of directly with exec? #scriptchat
- Nice to meet alot of you : ) #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters It comes from us. If an exec wants a general meeting we do an email intro and step out then. #scriptchat
- What scares you about pitching? #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters since you've "escorted" so many writers through this, what's biggest mistake you see? #scriptchat
- @jgsarantinos :) That could work too. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters fumbling and not knowing the story well enough. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters Writers that try to be somebody they aren't (i.e. robots). You're a human and execs want humans! #scriptchat
- @mattsjanacone Welcome Matt! waves Great to meet you too! #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters Scares: thinking it's a one-shot deal and messing it up. #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 @TheHappyWriters Yes we will! 2 of our winners just got signed to Gotham Group and APA! #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters That encourages me to keep writing. My trilogy on a guest venue did well, so I have hope. Learning all I can! #scriptchat
- Biggest thing I see that kills pitches is getting bogged down in Act Two details. @TheHappyWriters #scriptchat
- @jcolinholmes @TheHappyWriters keep each act uniformed. and give away the ending. writers sometimes trail off in act three. #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 #scriptchat Let's imagine for a few minutes.....
- I used to run a pitch boot camp with @jgsarantinos. Here's a short article I wrote on pitching. http://www.scriptipps.com/2014/06/dont-pitch-chicken.html … #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters also scared that I'll want to tell everything possible. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters It will be my first one so I'll be shaking in my shoes but hoping my passion wins the effort a reward. #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 @TheHappyWriters who they see in the lead/what their brand is/what is the most cinematic set piece in the story #scriptchat
- #scriptchat i once heard sell the sizzle not the steak.
- If you missed link earlier, here's the info for @TheHappyWriters https://www.stage32.com/happy-writers #scriptchat
- Don't worry about training so much to pitch. Just make it conversational and don't think so hard about it. Honestly. #scriptchat
- As much as I've learned about screenwriting while writing scripts, each one has been different & presents it's own challenges. #scriptchat
- Don't overthink the pitching process. It's easier than you think. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters what's the most unique thing about Happy Writers you want screenwriters to know? #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters Thanks for that advice! Overthinking can make people do weird things. :) #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters Can you expand on what the writer's brand is? Is that genre they write? Personal history? Produced films? #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters Will a good script practically pitch itself? #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters #scriptchat and don't sound too rehearsed either.
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters that we are there for the writers. Our personal touch is unparalleled. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters As in just being yourself and knowing your script? #scriptchat
- Once we get past pitching questions for @TheHappyWriters, we can discuss their contests & coverage too. #scriptchat
Get your #screenwriting questions answered! Join @TheHappyWriters president @JoeyTuccio on #scriptchat RIGHT NOW! pic.twitter.com/fkkiZgDHoB- @JLalliWriter @TheHappyWriters It's the genre you write in. Horror, sci fi, comedy, etc. What your favorite genre to write is. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat a few "industry folk" said the concept is what initially draws them in.
- @jgsarantinos I would go further. It's the WRITER that initially draws them. Then the concept. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters @JLalliWriter what if you write in multiple genres? You want to show that breadth or base on current project? #scriptchat
- Are Considers just as good as Recommends when submitting scripts to studios, agents or managers? #scriptchat
- Remember, execs are also looking for writers they can potentially hire down the road. It's not just the sale of your project. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters #scriptchat OK. if the writer is cool but the concept sucks they may work with them later.
- @heatherAtaylor @TheHappyWriters @JLalliWriter I would try to really focus on one genre in each pitch. #scriptchat
- @mattsjanacone Considers are really good. Recommends are better. #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 @TheHappyWriters They usually just request the script but sometimes the one sheet. Have a one sheet prepared! #scriptchat
- @jgsarantinos @TheHappyWriters It has happened many times where the concept wasn't for the exec, but they liked the writer. #scriptchat
- As a writer you have to get used to pitching verbally. You have to be proactive. You can't hide behind a computer. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters @SarahAlexis4 is the one sheet actually one sheet? I've seen *many* variations #scriptchat
- @mattsjanacone @TheHappyWriters #scriptchat great. now we know what ur about and the sort of material to expect from you.
- @heatherAtaylor @TheHappyWriters @SarahAlexis4 A one sheet is simply a 1-2 page synopsis of your story. #scriptchat
- @heatherAtaylor IMO, pitch comedy to comedy enthusiasts, thrillers to thriller fand etc. Be clear about what you do "best" 😉#scriptchat
- Here's a link to @thehappywriter contests https://www.stage32.com/happy-writers/contests … #scriptchat
- When pitching comedy verbally your personality must shine through. It's as much about YOU as it is the material. #scriptchat
- Know your writing peers too. What are some of your favorite writers? Know the business you are in. #scriptchat
- @jgsarantinos So, we help those listening see the experience our brains are producing on paper more than hear it? #Scriptchat
- @JLalliWriter I think about this a lot as I've done writer for hire stuff in other genres -that's a gd way of thinking about it #scriptchat
- I've earned a couple Considers and was wondering. #scriptchat
- In pitching, don't include graphics, pictures or sizzles. Crutches aren't necessary. #scriptchat
- @mattsjanacone that's great!! Considers are really good. #scriptchat
- What if it's animated? RT @TheHappyWriters: In pitching, don't include graphics, pictures or sizzles. Crutches aren't necessary. #scriptchat
- @chilltowntv @TheHappyWriters I was literally just writing that post. Animation is the only exception! #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters if a script gets optioned, does your co have any claim to it or get a cut? Or is it all the writer's deal? #scriptchat
- I just know 96% of scripts are Passes, 4% are Considers, and less than 1% get Recommends. #scriptchat
- :-) RT @TheHappyWriters: Animation is the only exception! #scriptchat
- When you finally go to pitcn, p #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters Peach? *bleck* haha #scriptchat
- Damn tablet. #scriptchat
- Guess I'm just wondering if it's worth it to stress over getting a Recommend. #scriptchat
- I would hire one to for your pitch package. RT @Al_1701: What if you're not an artist? #scriptchat
- @mattsjanacone I wouldn't stress over getting a Recommend. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat I've just finished writing a book that I want to be a script. Advice please?
- In a general meeting you can talk more about yourself, other projects, aspirations, etc. In a pitch, just focus on one story. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters did you want to talk about the contests? #scriptchat
- @Jill_Sinclair Were you planning on writing the script? #scriptchat
- @blueneumann @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb I was going to ask about what you guys feel is the "ideal" pitch (if there is any)? #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters Sure! We have a Comedy Contest now where the winners meet with Jerry Zucker and Scot Armstrong! #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters Nearly every one of our past contest winners have been signed. #scriptchat
- Yes I think so. I've never written a script though #scriptchat https://twitter.com/thehappywriters/status/691438242567188482 …
- Are you planning on adapting it yourself?? Do you have experience writing screenplays? #scriptchat https://twitter.com/jill_sinclair/status/691438149415751680 …
- I have a special passion for #indiefilm #scriptchat
- We also have our TV Fellowship Contest where 2 winners will win seats into a writers fellowship overseen by 13 execs. #scriptchat
- @Jill_Sinclair What if you just started pitching the book to companies? You might not even have to write a script! #scriptchat
- I've never written a screenplay before #scriptchat 😊 https://twitter.com/jlalliwriter/status/691438592166592512 …
- @TheHappyWriters writing scripts is VERY different than writing novels. You can learn it though. Totally diff't skill set. #scriptchat
- Stop by my blog http://mattjanacone.blogspot.com #scriptchat
- 5 more min with @TheHappyWriters, so please stay on topic & get your questions in while you can. #scriptchat
- @TheLewisEffect @TheHappyWriters @jeannevb 2 seats avail in this 12 seat f/ship. 13 execs created this group to find talent. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters Thanks so much for the great advice and insight you've given us on pitching. Really appreciated! #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters agreed! You really need to shift gears and tell the story externally vs an internal fiction world #scriptchat
- .@TheLewisEffect here's the link with info for @TheHappyWriters fellowship https://www.stage32.com/happy-writers/contests/Stage-32-Happy-Writers-TV-Writers-Fellowship-2 … #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters How do you feel about using "it's THIS meets THAT" in pitches? Like "it's GODZILLA meets NOTTING HILL"? #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 @TheHappyWritersScripts that aren't too wordy, character driven and that don't try too hard often place high. #scriptchat
- @jeannevb @TheHappyWriters Jeanne, thanks so much for inviting them, and for having this chat, as always! #scriptchat
- Script are writing in 'show' as in 'show vs tell'. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat once i find someone i would like to pitch to, how do i go about contacting them?
- This was fun and informative, as per usual #scriptchat
- @JLalliWriter @TheHappyWriters That method works but make sure the movies are relatively similar in tone! #scriptchat
- @cecelia_tvshow feel free to email us at Joey@Stage32.com with any specific questions! #scriptchat
- @blueneumann Thanks Chris! This was fun! #scriptchat
- Join us next #scriptchat with guest @shawntolleson - career coach.
- Great chatting with you all. Follow me for 140-character screenwriting tips. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters Glad you enjoyed. #scriptchat
- Thanks guys! #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters So our word quality has to paint the picture and draw the emotions for the best result? I think I like that. #ScriptChat
- Thanks for having me everybody! #scriptchat
- #scriptchat thanks joe
- Night everybody. #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters thanks for being here, Joey! You did great! I'll ping you when the transcript goes live. #scriptchat
- Raymond Chandler on #screenwriters in hollywood, 1945. Sadly things don’t change: http://theatln.tc/Rfi4pu #screenwriting #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters thanks for the info. Was trolling 👍🏻😀. #scriptchat
- @JLalliWriter I think it depends on the this and the that. #scriptchat
- That's great! I will dig in and write my own #screenplay #scriptchat https://twitter.com/jlalliwriter/status/691439991625519104 …
- Thanks, everyone! Now get back to the football game, or writing, or drinking, or pouring me a drink... transcript up soon! #scriptchat
- @jeannevb peach vodka! #scriptchat
- @TheHappyWriters ok, that's better. :) #scriptchat
- Following up my first ever #scriptchat with my first #TVwriterchat - I'm going to be looking forward to Sundays from now on...
- I will definitely keep up to date with you fabulous motivators! #scriptchat https://twitter.com/jeannevb/status/691440642719879169 …
- @PeoplesCourt79 if you go, download this webinar I did on how to navigate live pitchfest. They're crazy! http://www.scriptmag.com/how-to-sell-a-screenplay/ … #scriptchat
- .@Jill_Sinclair glad you popped in, Jill. We have TONS of resources and transcripts on our site http://www.scriptchat.com #scriptchat
- Wow! So blessed to have been online to be a part. Thanks again Jeanne! #scriptchat https://twitter.com/jeannevb/status/691442254439936001 …
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