Original Screenplays: Sell Yours With This Guide!
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) represents screenwriters, fighting for fair compensation and protecting the creative rights of individuals who craft original screenplays. Understanding screenwriting software, like Final Draft, is crucial; effective tools can significantly streamline the writing process and enhance formatting, ultimately improving the marketability of original screenplays. A compelling treatment, a detailed summary of the story, serves as a vital blueprint, illustrating the narrative arc and character development within proposed original screenplays. Aspiring screenwriters often seek guidance from established figures such as Aaron Sorkin, whose masterful storytelling demonstrates the power of well-crafted dialogue and engaging plot structures in the realm of original screenplays.
Structuring Your "Original Screenplays: Sell Yours With This Guide!" Article
This guide outlines the optimal structure for an article aiming to help aspiring screenwriters sell their original screenplays. The layout focuses on clarity, actionable advice, and comprehensive coverage of the sales process.
Understanding the Market for Original Screenplays
Before diving into the practical steps, it’s crucial to set the stage by explaining the current landscape for selling original screenplays.
The State of the Industry
- Demand and Competition: Briefly address the level of demand for original screenplays, mentioning factors like studio preferences, independent film trends, and the rise of streaming services. Be honest about the competition; selling a screenplay is challenging.
- Genre Preferences: Outline which genres are currently popular. For example, are thrillers, comedies, or sci-fi scripts having more success? This gives writers a realistic perspective.
- The Role of Agents and Managers: Introduce the importance of representation. Explain that while it’s possible to sell original screenplays without an agent or manager, it’s considerably more difficult.
What Makes an Original Screenplay Sellable?
- Strong Concept: The idea should be unique, engaging, and easily understandable.
- Compelling Characters: Characters need to be well-developed and relatable.
- Solid Structure: A clear and logical story structure is essential. Use examples of successful films to illustrate good structure (e.g., the three-act structure).
- Professional Writing: Error-free grammar, correct formatting, and a distinctive voice are crucial.
Preparing Your Original Screenplay for Sale
This section focuses on the practical steps a writer should take before trying to sell their work.
Screenplay Formatting and Presentation
- Importance of Proper Formatting: Emphasize that industry-standard formatting is non-negotiable.
- Software and Resources: Recommend screenplay writing software (e.g., Final Draft, Celtx). Link to helpful resources on screenplay formatting.
- Proofreading and Editing: Highlight the importance of thorough proofreading and editing. Consider recommending professional editing services.
Crafting a Killer Logline and Synopsis
- The Power of the Logline: Explain what a logline is, why it’s important, and provide examples of strong loglines. A logline is a one- or two-sentence summary of the screenplay.
- Example Logline: "A cynical American expatriate struggles to choose between love and virtue in the early days of World War II." (Casablanca)
- Writing a Compelling Synopsis: Explain what a synopsis is and how it should effectively summarize the plot while highlighting the key themes and characters.
- Perfecting the Query Letter: Detail the essential components of a query letter that introduces the screenplay to potential agents or producers.
- Query Letter Components:
- Compelling opening hook.
- Brief introduction of the screenplay (logline and genre).
- Your writing credentials (if any).
- Polite request for consideration.
- Query Letter Components:
Selling Your Original Screenplay: Methods and Strategies
This is the core of the article, providing specific advice on how to approach the sales process.
Finding Representation (Agents and Managers)
- Researching Agents and Managers: Explain how to find agents and managers who represent screenwriters in the desired genre. Resources such as IMDbPro and Writer’s Guild directories should be mentioned.
- Submitting to Agents and Managers: Outline the process of submitting query letters and script samples. Include tips on tailoring submissions to individual agents and managers.
- Handling Rejection: Offer advice on how to deal with rejection and persevere in the search for representation.
Direct Submission to Production Companies
- Identifying Target Companies: Explain how to research production companies that produce films in the desired genre.
- Navigating Submission Policies: Emphasize the importance of respecting submission policies (often unsolicited submissions are not accepted).
- The Importance of Connections: Highlight the role of networking and attending industry events.
Pitching Your Original Screenplay
- Perfecting Your Pitch: Explain how to prepare a concise and engaging pitch.
- Pitching Techniques: Provide tips on effective communication, body language, and handling questions.
- Practice and Preparation: Encourage writers to practice their pitch extensively.
Understanding Contracts and Negotiation
- The Option Agreement: Explain what an option agreement is and its key terms.
- The Purchase Agreement: Outline the terms of a purchase agreement, including payment, rights, and credits.
- Seeking Legal Advice: Stress the importance of having a lawyer review any contracts before signing.
Resources for Screenwriters
Provide a list of helpful resources to support the selling process.
Online Databases and Websites
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| IMDbPro | Industry database with contact information for agents, managers, and production companies. |
| Writers Guild of America (WGA) | Professional organization for screenwriters; provides resources and information. |
| Screenwriting Software Websites | Final Draft, Celtx and others. |
Books on Screenwriting and Selling
- Recommend key books on screenwriting, the business of screenwriting, and negotiation.
Screenwriting Competitions and Fellowships
- List reputable screenwriting competitions and fellowships. Explain the benefits of participating in these events.
By structuring the article in this way, it will provide a comprehensive and actionable guide to help aspiring screenwriters navigate the complex process of selling their original screenplays. The clear organization and detailed explanations make it accessible and informative.
Original Screenplays: Your Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you successfully navigate the world of original screenplays and get your work sold.
What exactly does "original screenplay" mean?
An original screenplay is a screenplay that is based on an idea entirely conceived by the screenwriter. It’s not an adaptation of a book, play, or other pre-existing material. The story, characters, and plot are all products of your own creative imagination.
How important is a query letter when submitting original screenplays?
A strong query letter is crucial. It’s often the first impression you’ll make on an agent, producer, or executive. Make it concise, compelling, and professional. Briefly outline your original screenplay’s plot, highlight its unique selling points, and include your contact information.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing original screenplays?
Avoid clichés, thin characters, predictable plots, and poor formatting. Also, ensure your story has a clear beginning, middle, and end. Remember that the strength of your original screenplays hinges on strong storytelling and compelling characters.
Beyond talent, what qualities do producers look for when buying original screenplays?
Producers seek original screenplays with a marketable concept, strong emotional core, clear target audience, and a unique voice. They want stories that will resonate with viewers and have the potential for commercial success. They are looking for what’s unique that separates your work from other original screenplays.
Alright, you’ve got the goods! Now go out there and make your original screenplays shine. Good luck with the selling, and happy writing!