So, you think you've got a killer script?

FilmMakerr

FilmMakerr

Veteran
I got a question, what should you do when you believe you've written a script that will without doubt, catch some attention? I've recently written a feature script, and would like to direct it myself, and think its got a great storyline, do I send it down to producers? talent agencys? any idea? I just dont wanna hand it to anyone that could possibly take my story idea, since it is very original. Any suggestions?
 
"what should you do when you believe you've written a script that will without doubt, catch some attention?"

you wake up. it's morning and you have a lot of hamburgers to sell.

seriously, you sound like a newbie, so, first thing register your script as cheap as you can and hire a profesional reader to tell you where you stand.
 
after you register or copyright, you could make some kind of demo, in a form of short film, or trailer, or a batch of few scenes, usually a visual representation of your idea that can be easily viewed in a couple of minutes is a better option than a script, since you want to direct it.
also making a small synopsis on the script would be good.
 
1. Register it with the US Lib of Congress Copyright Office, $35 online.
2. Get what is called "coverage" to find out what professional readers think of your screenplay, they will provide detailed feedback, suggestions, etc, give you an unbiased opinion of how good your script is.
3. Is it still a great script? High concept story? Then make it into a film yourself, or get an agent and sell it, and/or enter it into some respected contests to see how it does (e.g. Nicols Fellowship).
~Good luck!

FilmMakerr said:
I got a question, what should you do when you believe you've written a script that will without doubt, catch some attention? I've recently written a feature script, and would like to direct it myself, and think its got a great storyline, do I send it down to producers? talent agencys? any idea? I just dont wanna hand it to anyone that could possibly take my story idea, since it is very original. Any suggestions?
Click to expand...
 
If you have a great script and you want to direct it, go out and find the money.

Don't worry about someone stealing the idea, because a great script has both a great idea *and* great execution. So it makes no sense to steal the idea - the thief would still have to hire a great writer (and they cost a bundle) to write a script with the same level of great execution as you already have. It costs less just to buy the script from you.

So it really all comes down to *talent* and *quality*. If you have a great script, it makes more sense for them to buy it. If you have actual directing talent then they will want you to direct the film as well. Again, they would have to hire some other director with equal talent, and that will cost them more... unless you are *not* very talented.

The first place to look for the funding are the places that already want to work with you. The distribs of your last films, the people who funded your last films...

Also, all of those companies that met with you after your last project.

- Bill
 
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Bill, been reading your website. Some great points on there that are extremely useful. THanks for making them available.

Noel
 
Great advice, great site as well bill.

My last film was self produced by the director himself, and it was under $4200, I think what I'll have to do is try to create a trailer of some kind, and get some attention.

Has anyone here made a trailer to get funding?
 
I had a day job to fund my films in that budget range. Worked at Safeway Grocery full time to maintain my 16mm habit.

- Bill
 
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