Showing posts with label austin film festival. Show all posts
Showing posts with label austin film festival. Show all posts

Sunday, October 13, 2019

#Scriptchat Transcript: Steven DeBose @Steven_DeBose discusses all things @austinfilmfest - October 13th, 2019

Steven DeBose @Steven_DeBose, Director of Script Competitions at Austin Film Festival @austinfilmfest, shared tips about all things Austin Film Festival from how to connect with fellow writers, to the best spots to eat, to how to make the most of your festival experience. Some chatters who have previously attended AFF also chimed in with tips and are continuing to tweet some more so you may want to check out the hashtag after the chat ended as well. 

Moderated by @SarahAlexis4.

Read the transcript below or on the Wakelet site. Enjoy!
 



Sunday, June 30, 2019

#Scriptchat Transcript: Steven DeBose @Steven_DeBose, Director of Script Competitions at Austin Film Festival @austinfilmfest

We had a blast tonight talking screenwriting contests and navigating AFF with Steven DeBose @Steven_DeBose, Director of Script Competitions at Austin Film Festival @austinfilmfest!

Read below or on the Wakelet site.

Thursday, June 27, 2019

#Scritpchat Guest: Steven DeBose, Director of Script Competitions at Austin Film Festival


Join us Sunday at 5pm PT at this siteto discuss 
screenwriting contests, and the Austin Film Festival, too! 


We are fans of screenwriting contests and excited to have Steven DeBose @Steven_DeBose, Director of Script Competitions at Austin Film Festival @austinfilmfest as our guest on #scriptchat Sunday, June 30th!

Did you know AFF has new contests? They're extending the deadline to July 5th so our #scriptchat writers can participate!

Check them out:

Fiction Podcast Script Competition:

"We’re thrilled for the return of the Fiction Podcast Script Competition, which leverages our legacy of championing storytelling to launch writers into the emerging world of podcasts. We look forward to connecting audiences with incredible new stories, as well as connecting writers with a medium that offers incredible access to audiences and limitless opportunities to launch new stories."


Digital Series Competition:

"The climate of storytelling is changing. Scripts are no longer bound to the confines of a feature length movie or 42 minute television episode. With the emergence of online content platforms, digital series, webisodes, and everything else you can find on the world wide web, barriers have been broken and the doors are wide open for new media and innovative formats. And with more opportunity comes more talent and more stories ready to be celebrated."

Submit to the contests here!
FINAL DEADLINE JULY 5th!



Sunday, April 17, 2016

#Scriptchat Transcript: Screenwriting Conference & Pitchfest Tips April 17, 2016

Tonight we talked about the value of screenwriting conferences and pitchfests including networking tips and more! @zacsanford moderated. Enjoy!

Read the transcript on the Storify site or below.


#Scriptchat Transcript: Screenwriting Conference & Pitchfest Tips April 17, 2016

#Scriptchat Transcript: Screenwriting Conference & Pitchfest Tips April 17, 2016

Tonight we talked about the value of screenwriting conferences and pitchfests including networking tips and more! @zacsanford moderated. Enjoy!

  1. hello y'all. Before we jump in, how is everyone doing on their writing goals? #scriptchat
  2. @zacsanford2 Wrote two pages of TV spec script today. Lot more to go, but so far so good. #scriptchat
  3. Myself, I'm behind on my writing goals for the year, but the day job has been crazy, and very rewarding so far. Can't complain. #scriptchat
  4. So where does everyone want to start? Pitching? Pitchfests? Networking? #scriptchat
  5. Networking, and how hard it can be when you're penniless and in the middle of nowhere. #scriptchat
  6. Sadly, our previously scheduled guests @PitchfestBob @Screenwriter12 could not be here as they're at a premiere. #scriptchat
  7. 2 many writers go to pitchfests thinking they’ll sell a script. U shld go to learn art of pitching, take classes & meet writers #scriptchat
  8. @Al_1701 Networking is tough when you're outside of LA. While tech has made some things easier, still a biz of face-to-face. #scriptchat
  9. @zacsanford2 I'm not really in a position to go to L.A. just to try to pitch. #scriptchat
  10. But if you can find writing groups within your area, that's always place to start. Even if most are novel writers. #scriptchat
  11. You never know who will go on to be something and who won't. But relationships are what Hollywood is built upon. #scriptchat
  12. What is the best way to make connections when you are out of state? I am in Portland, Oregon. #scriptchat
  13. I'm always more open to reading a query letter from someone I've personally met than a blind query that is sent to me. #scriptchat
  14. @ZotBakingCo While Portland doesn't have a huge film scene, it has a small one. Make connections there. #scriptchat
  15. @zacsanford2 The fringes of the Detroit metro area, like between everywhere that is anywhere. #scriptchat
  16. But I get it, not everyone can afford to make a trip to LA. #scriptchat
  17. Most execs and other writers on twitter are open to discussions. Just don't be pushy or rude. #scriptchat
  18. I've had people whom I've communicated with for years on here, and then I've asked what they're workign on & might read. #scriptchat
  19. But if I don't know you, and you say "can you read my script?", the answer will almost certainly be a no. #scriptchat
  20. @zacsanford2 what are you looking for in a query that comes to your office as opposed to a pitching event? #scriptchat
  21. I like to talk craft...hoping quality raises above the fray. #scriptchat
  22. But if we communicate and chat about other things, I'm always more open to hearing a pitch online. #scriptchat
  23. @ZotBakingCo It'll vary city to city, but Facebook has a lot of film/writing groups. I try to keep up with happenings that way. #scriptchat
  24. @zacsanford2 Getting to know people (and them getting to know you) is a lot harder onine. #scriptchat
  25. An example... @chasffischer and I talked for a while. He's in Australia... But I eventually asked what he was writing. Read it. #scriptchat
  26. @ZotBakingCo twitter can be a great way to connect. Once you establish relationship here, bring it to FB, which is more personal #scriptchat
  27. @Al_1701 Exactly. Online isn't the same as in person. It's part of the reason I don't really dig online pitchfests. #scriptchat
  28. @Al_1701 What sucks is how the film biz has all but abandoned MI after they cut their incentive. Would have been great for you. #scriptchat
  29. A lot of film people are creatives, therefore they're more introverted. My first time I grabbed drinks with someone I was afraid #scriptchat
  30. @jeannevb I will check it out. You have great information on your site. Thank you. #scriptchat
  31. I used to hate getting up in front of the class or talking to random people. Now I can talk with anyone about almost anything. #scriptchat
  32. FYI, I met @zacsanford at a pitchfest 8 years ago & we've been friends ever since. We stayed in touch. STAY in touch after! #scriptchat
  33. We had 17 Nextdoor neighbors interested in a writer's group and no one showed. LA, too. #scriptchat
  34. @Al_1701 @NaimaHazelton Breaking the ice is almost like flirting. You might get rejected, but it's a numbers game in the end. #scriptchat
  35. @NaimaHazelton I hosted a meetup once and only two people showed. 30+ RSVP'd. LA is a town of flakes :) #scriptchat
  36. When you want to make a connection, don't make it just about you, but how you can benefit one another #scriptchat
  37. I was so motivated that I wrote an outline out of frustration...use it! #scriptchat
  38. I'm a development exec. I need to find new writers and material. Therefore I like when writers chat me up. #scriptchat
  39. @NaimaHazelton I've got plenty of that, especially now. The population of my house more than tripled including pets. #scriptchat
  40. @jeannevb That's what I love about the other side of my company.. it's in Texas. 30 miles on the freeway takes less than 30 mins #scriptchat
  41. Sarah asked how to keep the connection with an exec. Which is always a tough balancing act. #scriptchat
  42. If you're outside of LA, an email every couple months checking in is okay. #scriptchat
  43. If the company had released something or been in the trades, shoot an email of congrats. #scriptchat
  44. Finding reasons to follow up is always best, that way it isn't just a "how you doing" email, as those seem a little fishy. #scriptchat
  45. There's a great book called "Never Eat Alone" that has a whole section devoted to the follow up. #scriptchat
  46. But once you've made the connection, if they have a public FB or Twitter, follow or send a request. #scriptchat
  47. What about the fear to talk to people in the business. That feeling you aren't worthy. #scriptchat
  48. Making a connection not directly related to screenwriting is a good way to keep in touch with execs. #scriptchat
  49. Twitter is more open for most. FB tends to be a little more exclusive and private for a lot of folks in the industry. #scriptchat
  50. I'm a huge fan of "Never Eat Alone." Whenever I'm in LA, I literally meet ppl for brkfst, lunch, coffee, dinner, drinks. #scriptchat
  51. 100% RT @screenwrtnaked: Making a connection not directly related to screenwriting is a good way to keep in touch with execs #scriptchat
  52. From an exec's pt of view, what is good to ask? Making it about them follow-up question... #scriptchat
  53. @Al_1701 don't start with pitching them. Start a conversation. Eventually they will ask you about your writing. #scriptchat
  54. Yes, rejection may happen, but without puting yourself out there, who will actually read and discover your talents? #scriptchat
  55. Before we segue into pitchfests, let me state I HATE when someone sits down and starts their pitch ASAP. Build rapport. #scriptchat
  56. When you're pitching at pitchfest, research the companies 1st, then you can find common ground & interests to make it organic #scriptchat
  57. Even small talk with these people is scary. Why would they care about my love of the weather and hoping the Red Wings win? #scriptchat
  58. @Al_1701 I'm the guy who would get sick talking in front of a class. I've now been on panels in front of hundreds. I love it. #scriptchat
  59. @Al_1701 You'd be amazed about the Red Wings. Or sports in general. Only a small percentage are actually from LA. #scriptchat
  60. I cut my pitching teeth at pitchfests. Now when I have meetings in offices, I don't sweat it. Speed pitching is great practice #scriptchat
  61. @screenwrtnaked If we've never chatted before on social media and you pitch me, the block button is used. #scriptchat
  62. More intimate conferences are great too. I love @WIFV_DC’s #ScriptDC. Inspiring group of writers/filmmakers. Like a family. #scriptchat
  63. @Al_1701 I made a great connection over horse racing. You'd be amazed at how they are just people like us. #scriptchat
  64. @screenwrtnaked If we've chatted several times, you can swing the bat and ask "what are you looking for?" #scriptchat
  65. A lot of pro writers travel to conferences around the country. Find one near you (Austin, NY, DC, Chicago, Nashville, Toronto) #scriptchat
  66. Honestly, if you're talking to me on Twitter, you're more than likely a writer... So I know we share that as an interest. #scriptchat
  67. I'll mention I love Mr. Robot, and let's discuss that. Mention that you'd love to write something that amazing some day. #scriptchat
  68. Just PLEASE do NOT talk down about yourself as a writer or artist. You need to be confident. We need you lie you need us. #scriptchat
  69. @screenwrtnaked Connections are important because if I like your writing, I want to know I'll be able to work with you. #scriptchat
  70. Re: networking, @theblcklst has meetups all over, as does @Stage32 - GO! Talk w/ people. You never know who you'll meet #scriptchat
  71. You could be the greatest writer in the world, but if you are a chore to be around, the career could quickly dissipate. #scriptchat
  72. We used to have meetups more often too. If you want to start one in your area, ping us & we'll help promote it. #scriptchat
  73. I like your writing, but the script needs work and I can't stand working with you, we buy it and hire someone else to rewrite. #scriptchat
  74. She never sent it :( RT @screenwrtnaked: @SarahAlexis4 remember the lady who pitched to us who had no fear? She was awesome! #scriptchat
  75. @NaimaHazelton Well, if the ProdCo buys your script, they buy your copyright and could do whatever they want with it. #scriptchat
  76. Jeff Nicholls had final cut on Midnight Special. After a test screening, WB gave him notes & he realized some made it better. #scriptchat
  77. The thing is, no one sets out to make a bad movie. Everyone wants to make the script better, but sometimes too many cooks. #scriptchat
  78. @zacsanford2 @SarahAlexis4 I remember you saying that. What a disappointment. I'd have loved to have read it. #scriptchat
  79. @NaimaHazelton If you're developing it with a director, you haven't sold the copyright, so your call. #scriptchat
  80. But I would still have a collab contract if a director comes on after you wrote the first draft. Mainly for chain of title. #scriptchat
  81. We have a great meetup here in Toronto @INKDRINKS at the Frinkin on King. Writers & sketchy friends #scriptchat
  82. Film overall is a collaborative medium, but ultimately it comes down to the money people typically have the final say. #scriptchat
  83. It's so important to follow after a pitchfest. If requested & you don't have it polished and ready...wasted time/money. #scriptchat
  84. Thanks @jeannevb for bringing up @thblcklst monthly mixers. They have them all over this nation. #scriptchat
  85. We're already halfway through, so we can switch from networking over to pitchfests and pitching in general. #scriptchat
  86. @ZotBakingCo haha hardly. I've just been through it all and tried every angle. #scriptchat
  87. @Al_1701 The "art of the pitch." Be short, concise, and leave me wanting just a little more to ask you questions. #scriptchat
  88. If you're at one of the pitchfest events, you have 5 minutes. Let's break that up into a couple different sections. #scriptchat
  89. When you first sit down, a lot of times you're worried about the clock, so you want to dive right into the pitch. #slowyourroll #scriptchat
  90. Stay a couple of extra days AFTER a pitchfest/conf so you can have meetings to reestablish old connections or build new #scriptchat
  91. Can I plug a Hollywood meetup? Bourgoise Pig...contact me for deets. #scriptchat
  92. When you first sit down, build that rapport. Let me see your personality. Let me see the real you and not the sales person. #scriptchat
  93. @NaimaHazelton I'm very interested. I used to love going into the darkest room to write when I lived by Franklin Village. #scriptchat
  94. Don't have a pitch that's super polished. Make it conversational not robotic. #scriptchat
  95. Hell, even if you don't know anything about me when you're pitching (which you should), thank me for being there. #scriptchat
  96. Pitchfests aren't just about pitching either. I've met the most awesome people at the #scriptchat cocktail party. @KimBergie and many more.
  97. And I don't say "thank me for being there" to be a dick, but it is the gratitude that goes A LONG way. #scriptchat
  98. @Al_1701 Whelp, I'm talking about the steps of when you're actually pitching at a pitchfest. Generals go a little differently. #scriptchat
  99. Once the rapport has been built and the small talk is out of the way (which should be no more than 90 seconds), then pitch. #scriptchat
  100. Oh, and snacks, bring snacks! Your blood sugar will drop. Sorry, I'm a mom. haha #scriptchat
  101. Look at writer to your left & to your right. 1 of them might be nxt Paul Haggis. Talk, connect, stay in touch AFTER the conf #scriptchat
  102. The key to a pitch is to not go into so much detail. So many people will go too deep and the listener loses interest. #scriptchat
  103. Think of your pitch as a trailer to the movie. Trailers are typically 90-120 seconds, but are used to sell to the audience. #scriptchat
  104. Your pitch should be hte same. Give me the overview of your story. Give me broad strokes. I want to see the story in my head. #scriptchat
  105. The building rapport and the pitch should now put you at 3 to 3:30 minutes. That leaves time for questions. And Qs are good. #scriptchat
  106. .@SarahAlexis4 true! Snacks for while you wait in line... oh and MINTS. Praise the Lord, bring MINTS! haha #scriptchat
  107. 1) I have this thing called the Pitching Pyramid. Start with title and genre. Then give a logline, then give a short synopsis. #scriptchat
  108. 2) Allow for questions and KNOW THE ANSWERS. You must know everything about your screenplay! #scriptchat
  109. if the pitch isn't for the company, it allows you to leave before the flock and get in the next line. Plus a breather for exec. #scriptchat
  110. Even if you aren't ready to pitch, go to the classes. TONS of pro writers talk at conferences, sharing their advice. #scriptchat
  111. @wcmartell I can't tell you how many times writers don't know answers to the most basic questions like "what is the theme?" #scriptchat
  112. Austin Film Fest probably has the most pro writers in attendance. #scriptchat
  113. 3) Then, like a pyramid, spread out - the 3 most amazing scenes - the ones that will be in the trailer that everyone talks about #scriptchat
  114. Yes!! RT @jeannevb: Austin Film Fest probably has the most pro writers in attendance. #scriptchat
  115. And ALWAYS, I mean ALWAYS (even if the event tells you not to), bring a one sheet. #scriptchat
  116. 4) If you give a detailed scene by scene pitch you'll put them to sleep. A pitch is mostly about the idea, script gives details. #scriptchat
  117. Something I've been wondering, what's Hollywood's current attitude towards the Monomyth? #scriptchat
  118. CANNOT emphasis the one sheet enough! As @zacsanford says, bring it! How else can the exec remember your specific story? #scriptchat
  119. @RLSoo Rebecca, if that was you at the GAPF, PLEASE email me zac at scriptchat dddddoooottttt com #scriptchat
  120. 1) small talk/appreciation w/ personality 90 secs 2)broad strokes 90-120 secs 3)field ?s 60 secs 4) out ea if 'next'! #scriptchat
  121. 5) I've judged pitch contests, and the judges want to hear an amazing story that makes them want to make the film version. #scriptchat
  122. screenwriting? then you should check out this thread #scriptchat right now, talking about pitching.
  123. The reason one sheets are important. 5 minute pitches = 12/hr. 5 hours = 60 pitches. Try to keep that clear in your head. #scriptchat
  124. 6) Also: best performance of bad idea is still bad idea. Worst performance of good idea is still good idea. #scriptchat
  125. Also too many pitches tell the story. But tell me the story through your character. That way I connect to something. #scriptchat
  126. When you're telling me the story, I get it. When I get the Hero's Journey of it, I'll be given a POV and world view. #scriptchat
  127. 7) Think about concept, big twists in your story, and emotional moments for protag."What happens next?" "How do they survive?" #scriptchat
  128. @SarahAlexis4 If someone asks "how does it end" and you don't answer, it's a pass. #scriptchat
  129. If I ask for hte ending, I'm on the verge of liking your pitch. The ending can make or break your story. Don't say "read it." #scriptchat
  130. There is a pitch guru that seriously tells people "if you pitch and they want to know the ending, they must read it." WTF. #scriptchat
  131. Okay, ten minutes left. Questions that I may have missed on anything we've covered. Or anything else? #scriptchat
  132. Oh, and most pitchfests have TONS of classes. and TONS of networking events. Take advantage of it all. #scriptchat
  133. and the classes are more than just pitching classes. There's classes/panels on all aspects of the industry. #scriptchat
  134. @zacsanford2 If pitching it flirting, that's like saying "I'm not saying if I'm married or single" #scriptchat
  135. I think you don't want to be arrogant or evasive, and "Read it" sounds both. I want them to ask me that means they're involved. #scriptchat
  136. and when you pitch, never say "I just completed my first script." Very few writers will write a masterpiece the first time out. #scriptchat
  137. @NaimaHazelton The nice thing about pitching as flirting... Everyone is in an open relationship... #scriptchat
  138. That is, until they put a ring on it, I mean... they buy it from you. Then it is only that story, but the rest is still open. #scriptchat
  139. @zacsanford2 What words would you use to say you are finished with the first draft? #scriptchat
  140. @SarahAlexis4 Listen to the questions you're asked. Those are things missing in your pitch. #scriptchat
  141. Pitching will often show you the problems with your screenplay - so it helps you rewrite it. #scriptchat
  142. If you found it odd that a question was asked as you thought you covered it, make it clear. #scriptchat
  143. Take notes on feedback bc it could show you where you need to work on script in next rewrite. #scriptchat
  144. @ZotBakingCo Unless you're established, you should only be pitching scripts that are market ready. #scriptchat
  145. The reason being, I might want to read your script now, and if it needs rewriting but you send, you get one shot. #scriptchat
  146. Also, by the time you rewrite it, we might not have that specific hole on our slate anymore... #scriptchat
  147. BUT, after a pitchfest, if someone requests, you can always say "I got some great feedback & I want to polish before sending." #scriptchat
  148. When I pitch execs, I LISTEN then before sending, make quick tweaks to fit their needs. #scriptchat
  149. Master Cat! Ben Frahm Writing TV Series: Ben Frahm has been hired by Sony TV International.  http://bit.ly/23QYeRQ  #scriptchat
  150. If you do go that route, make sure the turn around time is quick. I've received scripts from pitches over a year later. Sorry no #scriptchat
  151. Also, if you're nervous, pitch someone early in the day that you don't care about. Test the waters. #scriptchat
  152. @zacsanford2 "Want to polish before sending" - then hustle buns and get it rewritten & to them ASAP. Before they forget you. #scriptchat
  153. But still try to pitch your most important companies before lunch. After lunch they could be in a carb coma. #scriptchat
  154. Don't do gimmicky shit, like dress in a costume. Oh god, please #psychoalert #scriptchat
  155. Nxt #scriptchat 4/24 guest: screenwriter & author @MyloCarba of @ZoharFmisl - TOPIC: Writing Horror and working as a ghost writer.
  156. The Pitch Mart has it right. The event only goes about an hour after lunch, as everyone is fried by then. #scriptchat
  157. A year! Goodness, not. What's the customary turnaround time to get the script there? #scriptchat
  158. THIS! RT @jeannevb: Don't do gimmicky shit, like dress in a costume. Oh god, please #psychoalert #scriptchat
  159. This has been a great #scriptchat. Thank you everyone for the advice and information. Have a wonderful evening. #scriptchat
  160. But if you need to do some rewriting/polishing, no more than a month. #scriptchat
  161. @zacsanford2 You totally rocked this chat. Now I want to go to GAPF this year if you're gonna be there. #scriptchat
  162. Without getting out there and meeting people, who will read your stuff? #scriptchat
  163. Can you talk about Ensembles? Does everyone hate (or dismiss) them right away? @zacsanford2 #scriptchat
  164. If you can't because of financial reasons (which is understandable), VPF is another great source. #scriptchat
  165. Also, chat them up on Twitter. If you have like interests, start there. Most of us love chatting with people outside LA. #scriptchat
  166. @RLSoo Every company is looking for something different, so there is room for ensembes. #scriptchat
  167. Ensembles are tough for a lot of younger writers as balancing the characters/story can be tough. #scriptchat
  168. This was so helpful! Clear and focused Thanks @Zac and Jeanne and all the other experts! #scriptchat
  169. As always, I'm around for questions on my main account @zacsanford. This one is only for chats. #scriptchat
  170. Oops, tweeted the wrong handle. @MyloCarbia of @ZoharFmisl is our guest next week talking ghost writing & horror! #scriptchat
  171. @zacsanford2 Hey, almost the whole #Scriptchat crew was here tonight. It's been a long time. 😊
  172. Or if you were paying attention, my email is buried in this chat. :) #scriptchat
  173. RT @zacsanford2: If you can't because of financial reasons (which is understandable), VPF is another great source. #scriptchat
  174. @screenwrtnaked @zacsanford2 I was thinking the same thing. Would love to have us all here more often! Much more fun! #scriptchat
  175. Get out there. Network at local events. Grow your connections. aspiring writers of today are the paid writers of tomorrow. #scriptchat
  176. Thanks so much @zacsanford2 for moderating. Make sure you follow Zac's regular acct - @zacsanford #scriptchat
  177. The assistants of today are the ones running the companies in the future. #scriptchat
  178. And now I'm going to return to writing, previously in progress.... #scriptchat
  179. You completed a script. You can do almost anything. Don't let your baby sit on your computer. Let someone read it. #scriptchat
  180. And if you made it through this chat and tweeted/RT'd at least once, query me at my scriptchat email address. #scriptchat
  181. #scriptchat hey guys, just wanted to say thanks so much for some great advice!!
  182. Yes, I'm opening up the company to queries if you were part of this tonight. #scriptchat
  183. @jeannevb @zacsanford2 I agree. I almost missed it. Just finished my writing and a class I'm working on. #scriptchat
  184. There's your open door. Take advantage of it. Please. I love finding new writers with amazing stories to tell. #scriptchat
  185. @jeannevb @zacsanford2 @zacsanford Thanks, as always, for providing such great information. I learn something new each time. #scriptchat
  186. @zacsanford2 FYI - I had a pitch last Friday at 2pm. I asked them to move it to 11am for that very reason. #scriptchat
  187. Grabbing the transcript so don't worry if you missed links. Will post ASAP. Thanks for a great chat, everyone! #scriptchat
  188. If you tweet something with the hashtag within the next minute, you can still query, even if you were lurking. #scriptchat
  189. @NaimaHazelton Yep, a query letter/email is a pitch. Typically what would be on a one-page. #scriptchat
  190. And that's the cut off. Thanks everyone for joining us. Now get writing. And get out there and network. #scriptchat
  191. If I can go from the shy guy in high school to what I am now, you can too. And I still have severe anxiety & panic attacks. #scriptchat