How To Sell Your Screenplay : A Realistic Guide to Getting a Film Deal

To paraphrase an old line, "Writing a screenplay is easy. Getting it sold is hard." In today's topsy-turvy world of film production, getting a screenplay sold and produced is no picnic, even for veterans. For novices, it's near impossible. To play the film game, you need to know the rules. How to Sell Your Screenplay not only lets you in on the rules, but also lets you in on the secrets of winning the game. Written by two veteran screenwriters, How to Sell Your Screenplay was designed as a complete guide to getting your screenplay seen, read, and sold. The book begins by giving you a clear overview of the process through which screenplays are reviewed and accepted so that you have an insider's understanding of how the business works. It then guides you in putting your script into the proper format so that you can make the best--and, above all, most professional--first impression. Later chapters introduce you to the "players," including agents, lawyers, producers, actors, directors, and writers; guide you in preparing a perfect pitch; provide you with the proven Square One System for query submission; and aid you in getting the best contract possible. Throughout, tips from experts help you swim with the sharks without getting eaten by them. Every screenwriter dreams of getting that lucky break. But the pros know that you need more than luck to succeed--you need to make all the right moves. How to Sell Your Screenplay tells you everything you need to know to help make your own dream come true.