My Screenplay...warning?

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Veteran
Ok. Here it is, I've been going back and fourth with this screenplay agency. From carefully reading their site they seem legit. So I went to certain steps to get them to read my work for representation..

Now I'm in the final step of the process. The first step was to send them the plot of my screenplay. From the few lines they then decide if they want to move on to step 2. So I moved on to step 2 which is, to send them the actual script. From then they decide if they like it enough to move to step 3. So now I'm on step 3.

They want to pitch my idea and try to get a sale. I admit the professionalism thus far has been amazing. But one thing that worries me is this final step. They want me to pay $100 for an independent editor to critique the script before they can move on. My question is, should I worry about giving that $100? I know it's been said before, an agency will never ask you for money, if they believe in your work they will invest in you. The problem is, they are not getting the money, the independent editor is. I really want to go forward to step 3, but before I do, it only makes sense to consult with my family here on DVX. Thanks in advance guys.

Here's a link to the Agency for more info.

http://www.thescreenplayagency.com/
 
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From that thread:
"I only wish I had known about the Screenplay Agency before I spent $95, and many hours of my time. Plus the embarrassment now of telling my friends that I really DON'T have an agent! The Writer's Guild (whom I should have checked with at the beginning) said that they sign a contract with every writer that submits. Then they ask for the critique (which I paid for) and after giving one that calls for many changes, they refer you another company (yeah, sure!) that charges fees. Strange fees. The next one was going to be for $189! Then I woke up. RATS! Back to the drawing board, but glad that I only lost the $95."

"Here's the cycle:

1) They accept you.

2) Critique (for money).

3) Edit (for money).

4) Edit (for money).

.
.
.

n) Edit (for money).

n+1) Author doesn't pay money.

n+2) They drop you."
 
Simple rule for all writers: "Never ever pay to have someone read your material".

It is a scam. It is always a scam. No reputable agent or producer will charge money to read material.

Chris
 
I'll cut you a break, give me $50 and I'll read it for you :grin:

Seriously though, the advice you are getting here is correct. If they ask for money, move on to the next one. If they really believe they can make money off you, they will be willing to invest in your up front.

Peace,
Larry
 
WOW! Thank goodness for the DVX website and people like you all. I just read that thread.. I can't believe it, I almost got bamboozled. Words can't express the thanks I feel.

I must admit, I'm so happy I found this out but DAAAAAAMMNN!! :furious3: I'm mad, I want to break something. I'm glad I second guessed this. I just hope every writer/director/model/whomever knows this.. those words should be written in stone.. "An agency will never ask for money if they believe in your work"

I think I'm gonna go and sob somewhere..:crybaby: here I thought finally after many years my screenplay may have a chance.. DAMN IT!!!! Sorry guys, I'm mad as hell right now...:kali: Maybe there should be a sticky warning us artist to beware of such things, because I'm pretty sure I won't be the last fool they get on a hook, let's just hope the next fella is smart enough to second guess!

Once again.. THANK YOU! :)
 
CMessineo said:
Simple rule for all writers: "Never ever pay to have someone read your material".

It is a scam. It is always a scam. No reputable agent or producer will charge money to read material.

Chris
Click to expand...

I would agree with that, however what about paying for script coverage or script doctor to look it over and give you feedback?
 
Cryogenic Filmworks said:
I would agree with that, however what about paying for script coverage or script doctor to look it over and give you feedback?
Click to expand...

To me it's money well spent if they are good. Obviously you need to choose wisely, but screenplays need to be critiqued by someone that has a talent for it.

This is kind of feedback is even more important if you're going to make your own movie - we're probably too close to the story to see the problems. Better to fix it in the script than after everything's been shot.
 
Cryogenic Filmworks said:
I would agree with that, however what about paying for script coverage or script doctor to look it over and give you feedback?
Click to expand...

Personally, I am not a big fan of paid "Script Coverage" either, but at least in those instances you know you are "paying for a service" up front. Legitmate agents and producers do not charge money, ever.

Chris
 
Not sure if it's been asked, but who are these losers? What's the agency name? They can be reported to several online scam forums. Expose them, they exposed you.

Ugh, nothing gets me angrier than this, it's a hot button for me. Millions upon millions of dollars have been scammed off writers and it's just heart wrenching considering 99% of these people are broke in the first place. Makes me sick. Sorry to hear about this, man. Good luck out there and keep at it!
 
The Agency name is.. The Screenplay Agency.. check above for the link.

Yeah, thanks, it's tough trying to get a literary agent. It's really to options out there luck and who you know. But I won't stop trying, just have to keep a look out for scams that's all.
 
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