Showing posts with label breaking into screenwriting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label breaking into screenwriting. Show all posts

Sunday, June 6, 2021

#Scriptchat Transcript: Heather A. Taylor Talks About Being a Writer for Hire & Breaking into Screenwriting

Amazing chat with screenwriter Heather A. Taylor @heatherAtaylor about her experience breaking into screenwriting, working in a writers' room, and everything in between. This is a must-read transcript! Enjoy! @jeannevb

Read the transcript below or on the Wakelet site here.

Sunday, August 16, 2020

#Scriptchat Transcript: Breaking In with Ian Shorr @IanShorr

Ian Shorr @IanShorr (Writer of Paramount's @Infinitemov, coming out Memorial Day Weekend 2021, Writer of Splinter, Office Uprising, CBS' Training Day INFINITE) rocked the chat tonight with incredible advice! He even stayed an extra half an hour! Don't miss this super-size transcript of gold! Enjoy! @jeannevb

Read the transcript below or on the Wakelet site here.

Sunday, July 9, 2017

eiACE Members - Lee Jessup, Steve Kaplan, Dan Calvisi Transcript - Breaking in from anywhere!

Entertainment Industry Association of Consultants & Educators [EIACE] Members - Lee Jessup @leezjessup, Steve Kaplan @skcomedy, Dan Calvisi @storymapsdan - TOPIC: Breaking in from anywhere!

Read the transcript below or on the Storify site.

eiACE Members - Steve Kaplan, Dan Calvisi, Lee Jessup Transcript - Breaking in from anywhere!

eiACE Members - Steve Kaplan, Dan Calvisi, Lee Jessup Transcript - Breaking in from anywhere!

Entertainment Industry Association of Consultants & Educators [EIACE] Members - Steve Kaplan @skcomedy, Dan Calvisi @storymapsdan, Lee Jessup @leezjessup - TOPIC: Breaking in from anywhere!

  1. @StoryMapsDan Hey Dan! *waves* Welcome! Great to have you here, and thanks for joining us! #scriptchat
  2. @skcomedy Hey Steve! *waves* Welcome! Great to have you here, too! Thanks for joining us! #scriptchat
  3. @1NonlyGene_Rol oh, thanks! I can't watch myself - good thing the rest of you guys can #scriptchat
  4. @LeeZJessup you interviewed a ton of writers on breaking in, was there one thing they all had in common? #scriptchat
  5. Glad to know I'm not the only one. RT @LeeZJessup: @1NonlyGene_Rol oh, thanks! I can't watch myself - #scriptchat
  6. @filmwritr4 make sure the content can really stand out in a crowded space, and have a marketing plan in place! #scriptchat
  7. @jeannevb Absolutely! they all were students of the game, and never stopped until they broke in! #scriptchat
  8. My simple gold nugget about getting your script in doors: pick up the phone. Cold call! It can work, if you work it. #scriptchat
  9. @jeannevb they also created really effective communities around them - people to help them thru tough times #scriptchat
  10. @jannagummo today writers are everywhere! Maybe harder to find, but they are there! #scriptchat
  11. I feel sometimes that the only way to break in is to write a great script then produce it on #indiefilm level #scriptchat
  12. Another wonderful story of how The Writers Store changed Dave Trottier's life... #scriptchat #screenwriting...  http://fb.me/HoJRobuo 
  13. @jannagummo @LeeZJessup @jeannevb I recently got my client from Tahiti a manager and they're sending her pilot out. #scriptchat
  14. @janaconematt as a non-LA based writer u have to make use of what's available to you: Contests, fellowships, The Black List #scriptchat
  15. @janaconematt also skype/online pitches are a great way to connect with industry folks, especially hungry managers. #scriptchat
  16. I've worked with people doing webisodes from Texas to Australia. #scriptchat
  17. I've heard The Tracking Board is a great place to start - if you get a Recommend for your script, you're on your way #scriptchat
  18. @jannagummo I recently connected 3 writers in Melbourne, so trust me, writers are everywhere! You just have to look. #scriptchat
  19. @LeeZJessup Was just going to ask about script hosting on Black List & Virtual pitching like w/ Happy Writers as viable ins! :) #scriptchat
  20. Connect to your local community of writers. Face time with people is key to networking, not *just* online contact w/ peers. #scriptchat
  21. @SarahAlexis4 Totally! You gotta use what's available to you. Industry looks to TBL, so writers should use that! #scriptchat
  22. @StoryMapsDan @skcomedy @LeeZJessup Any advice on best practices for promoting your content online (web series)? #scriptchat
  23. The best advice is first, make it brilliant, then post it, then promote it. Sometimes people do it in the wrong order. #scriptchat
  24. @SarahAlexis4 same with Skype pitches - is someone you'd want to work with is taking pitches, use that! #scriptchat
  25. @janaconematt yes, @MyTrackingBoard is great. Launch Pad competitions have gotten a lot of writers repped. #scriptchat
  26. @filmwritr4 you want to start building a following that will be eager to see ur content as soon as you can! #scriptchat
  27. Q: Is having a website or blog absolutely critical for writers today? #scriptchat
  28. @StoryMapsDan @skcomedy @LeeZJessup Q: Tips on collaborating with other writers on a series project, and on giving feedback? #scriptchat
  29. @janaconematt If you have something to say, then a blog is a great platform. But writer's don't have to have websites! #scriptchat
  30. @filmwritr4 @StoryMapsDan @skcomedy @LeeZJessup...building a massive audience online, which will likely not happen. Sizzle reel! #scriptchat
  31. @LeeZJessup Absolutely! I definitely know it's crucial to know who your audience is, and what they like. #scriptchat
  32. @LeeZJessup Q: Say promising connection made off script rec/virtual pitch, how to best nav next steps/what else to have ready? #scriptchat
  33. The major online services have all brought success, but it can get expensive, so be smart. #scriptchat
  34. Whether it's a website, blog, or YouTube channel, it's good 2 have an outlet where u can both post content and connect w/ others #scriptchat
  35. @StoryMapsDan @skcomedy @LeeZJessup I've interviewed hundreds of web series creators, and knowing your audience is key. #scriptchat
  36. Q: Is having a couple scripts with Consider rating a good place to start? #scriptchat
  37. @janaconematt absolutely! you want to know that the content you've created is stellar! #scriptchat
  38. @StoryMapsDan Q: Any thoughts on how to narrow down which service may be best fit/bet? #scriptchat
  39. @StoryMapsDan @skcomedy @LeeZJessup As much as I hope to have more people watch, I just want to do good work with it. #scriptchat
  40. @janaconematt If people pass on it, have it be based on sensibility, rather than your writing chops #scriptchat
  41. @LeeZJessup if you wrote a great screenplay but had few connections and only $1,000 to work with, where would you start? #scriptchat
  42. @StoryMapsDan @skcomedy @LeeZJessup It doesn't have to be a viral hit or anything. It just has to be good and relatable to auds #scriptchat
  43. @jannagummo @StoryMapsDan @SarahAlexis4 Both. One pagers are good for anything. They are your short/elevator pitch/phone script. #scriptchat
  44. @drewbroadhurst submit 2 big contests, pay 4 2-3 evals on TBL, the rest in online pitches 2 hungry young managers w/ trk record #scriptchat
  45. @janaconematt Accolades on sites or with coverage services really depend on the situation and party you're pitching to. #scriptchat
  46. Thinking about finding an #illustrator & #coder interested in turning The Sistahood into a web series #transmedia #scriptchat
  47. @LeeZJessup @drewbroadhurst I agree with Lee, plus it may be good to work with a writing coach. Up to you. #scriptchat
  48. @drewbroadhurst @StoryMapsDan agreed - you want to work with someone who will really challenge your craft & push u 2 next level #scriptchat
  49. It's also important to realize that there's many ways to break through. 1/ #scriptchat
  50. @SarahAlexis4 @StoryMapsDan Hard to say on which sites to use. They don't all ONLY speciallize in one thing. #scriptchat
  51. Nia Vardalos put her 1-woman show up in Hollywood for months before Playtone came to see Big Fat Greek Wedding 2/ #scriptchat
  52. But Tracking Board is good with pilots and Inktip is good with genre movies and tv movies. Again, not their only strengths. #scriptchat
  53. @LeeZJessup @StoryMapsDan @skcomedy Q: How many new scripts to write per year & advice on creating a productive writing routine? #scriptchat
  54. I had a client in Australia. His script was rejected, so he turned it into a novel. The novel was published . . . 3/ #scriptchat
  55. Optioned, and he negotiated to write the screenplay! 4/ #scriptchat
  56. @jannagummo work w/ someone whose sensibility you agree with, and who has a great reputation! Like @skcomedy or @StoryMapsDan :) #scriptchat
  57. @LeeZJessup @StoryMapsDan I was thinking maybe take a portion of the script and turn it into a short #scriptchat
  58. I'm making an #indiefilm based on Rick Linklater's model - 2 people having interesting conversation with 'Before' series #scriptchat
  59. @jeannevb the key is ROUTINE. Writing at a regular time and place, to create ongoing productivity. #scriptchat
  60. @jeannevb Always write at least one scene per sitting. If you're tired, write a short scene so you can crash! #scriptchat
  61. @jeannevb ask yourself: where am I most productive? when am I most productive? create routine around that. #scriptchat
  62. @janaconematt Sounds great! But make sure that dialogue is great. Do table reads and workshop it. #scriptchat
  63. @StoryMapsDan I like to stop right after I start the next scene so I'm not starting with a blank page nxt day #scriptchat
  64. @LeeZJessup @StoryMapsDan Suggestions on how to best prepare fo a virtual pitch? Things to be aware of that differ from in room? #scriptchat
  65. @jeannevb remember that inspiration is not a luxury writers can afford. Sometimes it's there; sometimes not. either way, write #scriptchat
  66. Gotta interrupt my anti-Trump rants to praise @LeeZJessup for Screenwriters Support Group. It was such an amazing thing to do. #scriptchat
  67. @jeannevb Yes, ending on a high note! A little thread/breadcrumbs to pick back up with. :) #scriptchat
  68. @SarahAlexis4 Practice! Practice to friends, record yourself, work on it. Pitching is a skill. No one wings it well #scriptchat
  69. @StoryMapsDan @janaconematt Table reads are the best. I had one during a meeting with my writers' group a few years ago. #scriptchat
  70. @StoryMapsDan @janaconematt Not only does it make the script come alive, but it also shows you what works/what needs fixing #scriptchat
  71. Managers say they want to rep YOU, not just your script, but...they first need a great script to see yr potential. #scriptchat
  72. @LeeZJessup @jeannevb I would also stress importance of incorporating collaborators into writing process--writers group, etc #scriptchat
  73. @skcomedy writers groups are priceless! They can make all the difference. #scriptchat
  74. @LeeZJessup @SarahAlexis4 I've been at this for ten years and I've only recently gotten better at pitching. Practice indeed. #scriptchat
  75. Absolutely! RT @filmwritr4: @janaconematt Table reads are the best. I had one during a meeting with my writers' group. #scriptchat
  76. @StoryMapsDan agree completely! It's about the writer, but a strong script or pilot is the conversation starter! #scriptchat
  77. @LeeZJessup Find ways to leave Starbucks and connect with others--crew on someone else's webisode, co-write, table reads #scriptchat
  78. @skcomedy @LeeZJessup @jeannevb Any advice on working w/other writers on a series project (setting up a writer's room)? #scriptchat
  79. @jeannevb @LeeZJessup @skcomedy @StoryMapsDan Finding a group: start with fav genre, find people online in your fav chat room? #scriptchat
  80. Read their scripts first! Make sure they are better than YOU. #scriptchat
  81. @jeannevb you r looking 4 likeminded writers. If you took a class together, all the better - then you agree on tools & structure #scriptchat
  82. @jeannevb but in general, its writers u respect, who give good notes and are serious about writing. those r the requirements! #scriptchat
  83. Yes, taking classes is good place to find other writers. Big institutions or smallre private courses. #scriptchat
  84. A good writers group needs a tough MODERATOR. They keep you on a clock, give everyone equal time, no more. #scriptchat
  85. @skcomedy Understood. Will definitely keep that in mind. Thanks Steve! #scriptchat
  86. @skcomedy Absolutely. Even a wildly talented partner will lead to anguish if you don't share the same sensibilities. #scriptchat
  87. (Apologies if already talked about, got a bit distracted) Do people pay attention to webseries as calling cards for writers? #scriptchat
  88. I'm hoping to do what Linklater did with the first 'Before' movie to break in #scriptchat
  89. One good notes buddy can make all the difference. You don't need 6 people. #scriptchat
  90. For comedy, I always suggest that writers take improv classes, ESPECIALLY if they're not performers to begin with. #scriptchat
  91. @JonFour We already discussed, but short answer is yes, for that specific project you're selling. #scriptchat
  92. @JonFour if they are of amazing quality, tell a unique story in a powerful way, or gotten a ton of views, yes. #scriptchat
  93. And in those improv or sketch comedy classes, you'll find your future collaborators #scriptchat
  94. @skcomedy improv classes are great for writers who have to pitch, as well! #scriptchat
  95. Agreed! RT @LeeZJessup: @skcomedy improv classes are great for writers who have to pitch, as well! #scriptchat
  96. @LeeZJessup @StoryMapsDan Suggestions for sustaining relationship you're building w/industry people/other writers who are in LA? #scriptchat
  97. @SarahAlexis4 constantly create new reasons - contest wins, new script, new reps, coming to LA - to keep in touch #scriptchat
  98. I personally broke in as a script and book Reader for studios and prod companies.  https://youtu.be/fvn53-mH4iI  #scriptchat
  99. @SarahAlexis4 it's all about staying front-of-mind, and showing that you are serious about writing. xmas cards are gr8! #scriptchat
  100. South Park was the result of an animated Xmas card! RT @LeeZJessup: @SarahAlexis4 xmas cards are gr8! #scriptchat
  101. I found a writer friend on Craigslist and he's become my best buddy. I got lucky. :-) #scriptchat
  102. When cold calling: give them something. A bit of information, a joke, a memory. Don't just ask, give. #scriptchat
  103. @janaconematt Indie films are great, but if you put that time and half the money into writing script after script... #scriptchat
  104. I think the days of blind email queries are mostly over. That was the way I stumbled through the door from PA. #scriptchat
  105. @StoryMapsDan The best networking is done in the spirit of generosity! Always go in ready to give something. #scriptchat
  106. Know something about them, show you did your homework. Compliment a passion project of theirs. #scriptchat
  107. @frederick_seton on occasion they still do work, but that's the lowest on the totem poll, no doubt #scriptchat
  108. @LeeZJessup Reading trades great for keeping up on the industry. Other ways writers outside LA can stay in the know/connected? #scriptchat
  109. Whether it's a full indie film, or a three minute FunnyOrDie sketch, proof of concept is often key. #scriptchat
  110. Not everyone can read a script, but (most) everyone can watch a clip. #scriptchat
  111. In my workshops, I tell people to subscribe to #scriptchat as a way of meeting other writers and finding out about the industry.
  112. These are collaboration great tips. Probably the #1 reason I don't write more is because it is such a lonely venture #scriptchat
  113. @LeeZJessup @StoryMapsDan Any common missteps you see clients outside LA making that others should be aware of? #scriptchat
  114. Read books by Lee Jessup, Steve Kaplan and Carol Kirshner! #scriptchat
  115. @SarahAlexis4 Saying they will only come to LA if/when someone pays them :) #scriptchat
  116. @LeeZJessup Tips for writers before they move to L.A.... and WHEN is the move necessary? What should they have in place, etc? #scriptchat
  117. @drewbroadhurst Yes, it can get really lonely. Push past it, and/or find a good writing partner if you're interested. #scriptchat
  118. @jeannevb Build your body of work while you are home, so that when you arrive you have material ready to show #scriptchat
  119. @drewbroadhurst Twitter is a lonely writer's water cooler. When asshats aren't trolling, that is. :) #scriptchat
  120. @SarahAlexis4 @LeeZJessup @StoryMapsDan There's lots of activity out beyond L.A. Do something great in Melbourne or Dallas . . . #scriptchat
  121. @janaconematt @StoryMapsDan "Recommend" was incredibly rare. Like only a handful in my 8 years of reading! Don't worry about it. #scriptchat
  122. @drewbroadhurst create a community that can support you through the loneliness. #scriptchat
  123. @LeeZJessup some writers do really well in contest after contest but never break in. Advice for making most of them? #scriptchat
  124. @jeannevb don't wait 4 contest organizers to do things 4 you - use it to connect with people you've never met, to market urself #scriptchat
  125. Absolutely! Buyers don't pay for "potential." RT @LeeZJessup: @SarahAlexis4 or submitting scripts long before they are ready! #scriptchat
  126. Most managers will tell you they will only rep TV writers who are in L.A. But I have a client in Tahiti and she's getting reads. #scriptchat
  127. @StoryMapsDan @skcomedy @LeeZJessup Best advice on pitching script ideas/series concepts - even in networking opportunities? #scriptchat
  128. @StoryMapsDan I hear much of the same. If you don't want to move to LA, keep writing features. #scriptchat
  129. @StoryMapsDan I've received a couple of Considers, so I thought maybe I could write a script for an #indiefilm and hopefully break in with it #scriptchat
  130. @filmwritr4 never leave out your way into the story! It's not just about your gr8 idea, but also abt why ur the writer 4 it #scriptchat
  131. @jeannevb @LeeZJessup I would guess those contest winners aren't marketing afterward with full commitment. #scriptchat
  132. A contest win or placement does not mean you're on easy street. Keep writing, submitting, and marketing yourself. #scriptchat
  133. @StoryMapsDan Are they reading her with an eye for staffing & moving to LA or are they considering her original pilots or both? #scriptchat
  134. @SarahAlexis4 At this point, it's open, they're mainly interested in the concept and her writing. From there, will see. #scriptchat
  135. I've met some of my most beloved (and definitely go-to) characters through several years of improv classes! #scriptchat  https://twitter.com/skcomedy/status/884208790509416449 
  136. Meeting execs and agents at events (not just in L.A.) helps. Give them your elevator pitch, see if they request yr script. #scriptchat
  137. @LeeZJessup In terms of discussing with people why I wrote an idea, should I discuss personal inspiration/personal story? #scriptchat
  138. @filmwritr4 absolutely! the more you can connect yourself to the concept - without it being autobiographical - the better! #scriptchat
  139. @filmwritr4 If you have an interesting personal connection, yes, but if it's not very unique, no. #scriptchat
  140. @LeeZJessup :) Awesome! Thanks so much for the great advice, and for clarifying that extra question! #scriptchat
  141. Smaller, more intimate conferences are great to connect w/ writers and pros. @WIFV_DC's #ScriptDC is one of my faves. #scriptchat
  142. Networking wise, it's up to you to turn every opportunity into a future relationship! #scriptchat
  143. F5: DESCRIPTION & VOICE Blue Book. Packed with information & Techniques! 389 pages, SALE price: $3.99.  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073CNMF6G/secretsofactions  #scriptchat
  144. I still believe it comes down to and starts with relationships in the industry :) #scriptchat
  145. @StoryMapsDan Any thoughts on the film/TV production industry that's here in NY? #scriptchat
  146. @filmwrtr4 Avoid the bio that begins with you watching your first movie at 4 yrs old and falling in love with cinema. :( #scriptchat
  147. @wcmartell was at the lake reading your Bourne book today. Great stuff! #scriptchat
  148. Before we end, I have to put in a plug for our new group that @StoryMapsDan and @LeeZJessup are part of. #scriptchat
  149. @StoryMapsDan :) LOL I will Daniel...thanks so much! I think if anything I'd just discuss what inspired me to create the idea #scriptchat
  150. @SarahAlexis4 the indie film community in NYC is definitely flourishing! #scriptchat
  151. (Oh man, I missed the whole thing! Impromptu babysitting session) #scriptchat
  152. @LeeZJessup I see a lot of filming in my neighborhood! Films and TV. It's so fun to see. #scriptchat
  153. eiACE (Entertainment Industry Association of Consultants and Educators) is launching a series of Power Up! webinars #scriptchat
  154. @StoryMapsDan Any autobiographical/personal stuff can be put aside during the pitch. It's all about the idea/inspiration #scriptchat
  155. RT @LeeZJessup Networking wise, it's up to you to turn every opportunity into a future relationship! #scriptchat
  156. I second that! Check out  http://eiACE.org  - we have some great online events coming up! #scriptchat
  157. @SarahAlexis4 @StoryMapsDan Woody Allen said he ran out of street corners to film & said places like UK was happy to have him film there w/ total control #scriptchat
  158.  http://eiACE.org  is great group of real pros who want to help screenwriters. They're the real deal. Seasoned. Qualified. #scriptchat
  159. @StoryMapsDan @skcomedy Fun getting to do this with you guys! Can't wait for all that's still to come! #scriptchat
  160. Really enjoyed being with you all tonight, and thanks to @LeeZJessup @StoryMapsDan @skcomedy for sharing their advice/expertise! #scriptchat
  161. @jeannevb Thanks! I'm nose to grindstone today catching on a project... but auto tweet working too. #scriptchat
  162. Sorry... was melting in the LA heat... just reconstituted myself enough to say howdy! #scriptchat
  163. @skcomedy I am actually in September. So one with each of us every month! #scriptchat
  164. A true writer does not capture an audience... a true writer captures hearts. 💕 #Writer #Love #AmWriting #WritingChat #ScriptChat
  165. Enjoyed chatting with you all, and celebrating my 35th birthday with you guys too! #scriptchat
  166. You are all welcome, I hope I helped. I know Steve and Lee did! Good luck and happy writing! #scriptchat