And completely doable, even if all the "experts" tell you that it isn't.
Hello, fabulous screenwriters!!!
🎬✨
So, you've poured your heart, soul, and maybe a little caffeine into crafting the perfect feature film script. Now, you're ready to unleash it into the world and watch it light up the silver screen. But how exactly do you sell that masterpiece? Fear not; I'm here to sprinkle a little magic on your journey with tips, tricks, and a dash of quirky charm!
Last week, I went into approaching others, and you can find that post HERE
Now, I'm going to write something that is a bit contoversial.
You know what it is? I will tell you that you absoutely can sell your spec script, so stop listening to everyone telling you otherwise. Honestly, I'm so over hearing that it's impossible. It's not, it's not easy but it's far from impossible.
Know that you can do it but it does, usually, take a bit of time. I just optioned scripts that I wrote a few years ago. I will say that to be in this business more than a thick skin, you need PATIENCE and when I say that I mean it. Things move at the pace at the will of the industry.
Say you have an amazing action thriller that has won contests, placed in others, everyone is requesting it, and you signed with a great agent. AWESOME. Then, a few come out that don't do well at the box office, and no one wants action-thrillers.
This business shifts constantly.
When they say the only thing constant is change, they are talking about Hollywood.
Think of it like fashion-Heidi's favorite saying, "One day you're in, and the next, you're out!"
YUP--this is it.
BUT you can sell your script, you can, it's just not as easy as writing something great.
It takes time, persistance, networking, and LUCK.
So, for my resilient screenwriters! 🎬💪 I hope this helps you feel strong, confident, and ready.
If you've ever been told that selling a feature screenplay is "impossible," I'm here to tell you that it's time to flip that script. The road to success in the film industry might be paved with challenges, but it's also filled with opportunities for those who dare to dream big and push forward with passion and tenacity.
1. Embrace the Challenge: Every "no" you encounter is a stepping stone towards a "yes." Remember, even the most successful screenwriters faced rejection before hitting it big. Use each setback as a chance to refine your craft and fuel your determination. Understand that this is a business of opinions so one person's "no" is someone else's "yes".
2. Believe in Your Story and Yourself : Your screenplay is a unique piece of art that only you can bring to life. Trust in your vision and the power of your story. If you believe in it, others will too. Understand that you are your own superpower. Be confident without being cocky.
3. Keep Writing: The more you write, the better you become. Each script is a learning experience, honing your skills and expanding your storytelling prowess. Keep those creative juices flowing!
4. Find Your Group: Surround yourself with fellow creatives who uplift and inspire you. Join writing groups, attend workshops, and engage with a community that shares your passion.
5. Learn and Adapt: Stay open to feedback and be willing to adapt. The industry is ever-evolving, and so should you. Embrace new trends, learn from critiques, and let your work grow.
6. Celebrate Your Progress: Every small victory is worth celebrating. Whether it's finishing a draft, receiving positive feedback, or simply staying committed to your craft—acknowledge and appreciate your progress.
7. Stay Resilient: The path to selling a screenplay may be long, but resilience is your greatest ally. Stay focused, stay positive, and keep pushing forward. Your perseverance will pay off.
8. Remember the Greats: Many iconic films faced rejection before becoming classics. Let their stories inspire you to keep going. Your screenplay could be the next big thing waiting to happen.
In a world full of "impossibles," be the one who turns dreams into reality. Your screenplay has the potential to touch hearts, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impact. So keep writing, keep dreaming, and remember—nothing is truly impossible.
You've got this! 🎥✍️
Now, for some practical CREATIVE TIPS
1. Know Your Audience (and Your Genre): First things first, understand who your script is for. Is it a heartwarming romantic comedy or an edge-of-your-seat thriller? Tailor your pitch to resonate with producers who thrive on your genre. Remember, specificity is your best friend!
2. Craft a Killer Logline: Your logline is the golden ticket to piquing interest. Make it snappy, intriguing, and reflective of your script's essence. It's like the movie trailer in one sentence—make it count!
3. Build Your Network: Schmooze, mingle, and connect! Attend industry events, join screenwriting groups, and don't be shy to slide into a few DMs (professionally, of course). You never know who might be the key to your script's success. With this one, just be respectful and don't go into a big screenwriting group and beg for connections.
4. Enter Screenwriting Competitions: Competitions are a fantastic way to gain recognition. Winning or even placing can put your script on the radar of producers and agents. Plus, who doesn't love a little friendly competition? Just be selective on which ones you submit to and don't get discouraged if you don't place, honestly, it means nothing.
5. Pitch with Passion: When the time comes to pitch, let your enthusiasm shine. Show them why your story is unique and why you're the perfect person to tell it. Confidence is contagious!
6. Be Open to Feedback: Constructive criticism is your script's best friend. Be open to suggestions and willing to make changes. Remember, even the best scripts evolve.
7. Stay Persistent (and Patient): The road to selling a script can be long and winding. Keep writing, keep pitching, and stay positive. Your persistence will pay off.
8. Celebrate Small Wins: Every step forward is a victory. Whether it's a positive review, a request for a full script, or even a "no" that comes with feedback—celebrate it all!
Remember, selling a script is not just about the destination but the journey. Embrace the process, learn from every experience, and keep your creative spark alive. Your script is a gateway to new worlds; with a little perseverance, it will find its way to the right hands.
Happy writing, and may the screenplay gods be ever in your favor! 🎥✍️
I hope these were helpful.
I hate when I go to workshops and some agent, writer, producer, manager, etc, says, "You will never sell your script". It's just not true.
Hang in there. I know you can do it!
XO Steph
Join my FB group for Female Screenwriters HERE
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