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Click on a question to view its answer.
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| Number | Date | Question | Expert |
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| # 8304 | 8/25/10 | I adapted a short novel by a famous french author. The short novel was published post-posthumously. I've spoken to the publishing house in the States about obtaining the film rights and at this point I'm now emailing the publishing house in Paris. At this point, can I make this screenplay into a film for festival purposes without securing the rights and not be sued? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8303 | 8/25/10 | If my script has inconsequential characters that are more than extras (eg a cop telling someone to move along or a paramedic bandaging someone's wound) do I need to describe their physical appearance or simply say MALE COP or FEMALE PARAMEDIC? Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8281 | 6/14/10 | Hi Graham, One of the things I've been offered in my option is 3% of net profits, which is pretty much a joke considering any first year accounting student can bury profits. What should I be requesting a percentage of instead of profits? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8279 | 6/13/10 | RE#8272, my option agreement is offering 2% of the direct cost budget of the picture with a WGA minimum plus 3% net profits plus a piece of any TV spin offs or sequels. I’d also like to be involved in the creative development of this movie as much as possible. Is there a particular industry phrase that encapsulates this or do I spell out specifically in the contract what creative input I want/get? Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8272 | 6/7/10 | 3 weeks ago the producer who has optioned my script said he was sending me contracts but as of today still nothing. Last week his secretary emailed me asking me to email her the latest version of the script, which I did yet when I emailed the producer today asking about the contracts he didn't reply. Should I be worried? If so, what should I do now? Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8265 | 5/21/10 | Hi, am joshua from Nigeria. I have a screenplay presently but its really discouraging since am aware the chances of my work being adapted or produced is very minute. I know its kind of surprising that i could write a screen play based on the contemporary hollywood story lines but you never can tell what have go. I need your advice on what to do or should i just give up. Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8243 | 4/7/10 | Hi Graham, I have one of the few extant copies of a biography published 80 years ago. I'm debating between writing a novel and writing a screenplay. Both of these would be based on the biography. I want to retain the plot and events from the biography, but retell the content totally in my words. What are the copyright implications? What about plagiarism? Would writing a novel be a better idea? Thank you for your advice. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8236 | 3/26/10 | Is it possible to actually "sell" an idea? Alot of times, in the credits, I see, "based on an idea by John Doe". So I then assume that John Doe was compensated for his idea? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8196 | 1/27/10 | I have the online version of the Hollywood creative directory, and I have a television pilot and a feature script ready to roll, so my question is, will it be easier for me to shoot straight for the production companies to sell my material? Or, simply find an agent? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8174 | 12/9/09 | I am now converting my self published novels into screenplays. The agent that is interested in me is worst than a pimp and I really don't know if that is the best way to go to get into the film industry. My question is "Should I suck it up and get an agent for representation in order to profit in the film industry?" | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8155 | 10/3/09 | I've written a few screenplays, had some contest success and eventually got optioned. Unfortunately the producer was not able to get it produced. I've now created what I feel is a unique idea for a reality TV show (and a written a pitch) but I'm unsure what to do now (ie, who to approach and how). Any advice. Many thanks for your help! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8153 | 9/27/09 | I submitted my screenplay to a producer about 6 weeks ago. He just emailed me and said he has been really busy, but now has some time and intends to re-read my script. I have never had a producer tell me they are going to re-read my script. Is this a good sign? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8139 | 9/2/09 | Hi Graham I'm thinking of writing a movie (true story) about someone whom a play has been written. I found the author online but feel a bit shy about asking to read the play - or perhaps borrowing from it without using anything word for word? Is this a legal question or can you help me with my approach? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8115 | 7/13/09 | How does a young African-American male who lives in Virginia with no connections attempts to sell his screenplay? I know its about who you know, but how do I even get to that point without spending a lot of money with an already jacked-up economy? How can I succeed with hollywood always using the same old retread writers and agents scared to take a chance on new writers? Help me out here!! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8106 | 7/6/09 | Hi Graham, I've been contacted by a Director who wants to buy my script. However, his offer is very low and he wants to do it for $1.5 million, when it was written as a big budget actioner. I've had a few people read the script at WMA and have gotten great responses. I would like to use this as leverage to get the script sold. What's the best way to do this? Thanks, Esty. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8093 | 6/24/09 | Dear Graham I wanted to decribe a scene where a person that can not be seen moves down a hallway and floats through a door. I described it like this. We float down a hallway as if through someones eyes and come up on a door and pass through it without opening. I was told never to do this as I am giving camera directions but no one can tell me how to descibe it. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8088 | 6/18/09 | Dear Graham I wanted to know does the writer start his script with the images he belives should open the movie or does the director or studio decide? I have been looking at several scripts that have different perspectives then what is first shown in the movie Example: CONTACT and that incredible opening scene. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8081 | 6/15/09 | Is it normal to be tired and disgusted reading your screenplay over to make sure it's right? It gets tiring and I feel like I don't want to. Would this be a sign that I don't love writing and shouldn't? Also, I first thought when writing that it would be ideal to write poems and stories and get them published so that when I send out screenplays I would have something to show. Good idea? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8066 | 6/10/09 | If you were down to your last 100 bucks and had what you believed to be an exceptional screenplay would you: A. Enter it in a screenplay contest. B. Use a service that would send out an e-mail(query) to hundreds of industry pros. C. Pay for coverage of the screenplay. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8054 | 5/24/09 | Sorry. I pasted this question and forgot to change the name. But if I use, A beat, and Silence. Is that a wrong thing to do? Or does it really matter? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8051 | 5/23/09 | Hey Robert. I'm busy typing up a screenplay and I'm not sure. I'm 13 pages into the script. When you're writing, and type, A beat. Is this the same as writing, Silence? There's a few spots where I write, A beat. But there's another spot in the script where I want to write, Silence. Can I use both, or just one? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8044 | 5/19/09 | Hi. I have written a story that I have been working on since November. And I gave it to my mom to proofread and there were a few things she wrote down to correct or think about changing. Are things like this a sign of not being good enough for writing? And this includes writing screenplays. Do most writers send their material somewhere to be proofread? I hope this isn't a stupid question. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8036 | 5/15/09 | I was wondering if you know where I could get info about screenplay format. Like, what should the left, right, top, and bottom margins be? And like, when you write a person name when they're going to speak, how many inches over should it be from the left? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 8003 | 1/11/09 | How much is a reasonable fee for a screenwriter-for-hire to charge for a feature screenplay? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7999 | 1/2/09 | I wanted to know if you knew anything about 'REMAKES.' I was considering writing a remake of a movie that was done in 1962. If in fact, I wanted to do the movie what steps would I have to follow to get the movie made. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7997 | 12/24/08 | Mr. Flashner, I estimate I am going to send my first script off to an actress at the Screen Actors Guild. Now this question may be far out of your answerability...do you consider an actress such as Natalie Portman would be an easy actress to reach for my script? I've seen much of her work and love her acting. Truly amazing. So any idea or is this question to far out? Thanks... | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7988 | 12/19/08 | Graham, I want your advice on one thing: since I'm writing a very powerful script based on issues movies talk about, but don't deeply attack, should I send it to a Independant Film Company? I mean, abortion, Muslims, terrorist who stand upon the flag, Jermimiah Wright--all these aspects combine into character's conversations regarding them. Who'd be brave enough to do this type of film? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7981 | 12/4/08 | Hi,I have the chance of a lifetime. I am willing to option "the book",on which I want to base my screenplay. I have already contacted the publisher and he says I'm supposed to make him an opening offer in writing. I am not very good at this and realize that I need some help.Can you please give me some advice or help me on how I am supposed to go about this? That would just save me. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7977 | 11/24/08 | sir/madam I have an extraordinary type of script which i want to get produced.i try my best to contact through e-mail addresses to the so called script agents.almost all do not respond .only one says itcanot because ofsufficient number of writers he represent. MY QUESTION IS THAT TELL ME OR SEND ME POSSIBLE REFERALS OF SCRIPT AGENTS OR ANY ONE INTESTED TO SEE MY WORK FOR MOVIE PRODUCTION. ITIS ACOMEDY TYPE SCRIPT. LOOKING TO HEAR FROM YOU | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7973 | 11/14/08 | Does an already published novel have a chance of being read and perhaps considered for a screenplay and eventually made into a movie? If so, what are the proper channels to follow, even if it is not a best seller by an already famous author? Thank you in advance for your consideration and answer. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7964 | 10/31/08 | Alright. Here's the deal. My whole life I've been writing... whatever style. Stories, screenplays, poems. I got a poem published on the internet. Now, I live in Pennsylvania. I know you can write anywhere, but when it comes to screenplays... it's easier moving to Hollywood or NYC. Is it possible to write screenplays, send them to an agency, and stay where you are? Or is it more likely you will be a failure that way?? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7954 | 10/21/08 | I co- wrote a screenplay with someone. Script registered in both our names. It was to be an independent film. I have rights to the true story . I paid him over $1,000. I spent alot of money on lawyer for a biz plan, etc. Very bad guy. I want to make the indie film without him. I will not talk to him. Can I do this film without him? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7949 | 10/10/08 | RE: 7928. Hi Graham, My project is a female lead action film. I just learned that they don’t sell since they don’t do well at the box office, and usually come from other sources - a novel. My passion is screenwriting. I’m told, odds would be better in my favor if I wrote a novel, first. The only other way is to find directors who can attract someone like Angelina Jolie. Thanks, Esty. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7932 | 9/18/08 | Hello Mr. Flashner this may be a foolish, but important question. When doing resarch from example a history book, Do you have to have permission to use any events that took place in your script from the author. Thanks In advance | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7928 | 9/16/08 | Hi Graham, I've been approached by a co-worker to write a script about his “Iraq" experience of which he documented more than 200 pages while there. Now I’m torn between my completed passion project which I’m told I should now to turn into a novel, my next, high budget, recently started passion project (some'g never done before), and this one. Since time does not allow me to do all of the above. Advice? Thanks, Esty. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7926 | 9/13/08 | I am new and just beginning to market my script. Would like to know a) if a few offer to option it, what criteria should I use to go with one or the other? b) should I "hold out" for selling it vs. optioning? c) how soon do I need to reply? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7908 | 8/19/08 | Do you think it would help or hurt me when writing query letters to include a biz. card with a link to a website www.myscript.com which includes numerous glowing comments from other readers, plus a synopis and a slide show, like a story board? (based on true story) | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7897 | 8/5/08 | I have a completed script, based on one of my books,it was developed by a scriptwriter. Is there any info you can give me regarding on how I can get it reviewed by a producer? Should I just send query letters? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7894 | 8/2/08 | I have my story and characters developed and I am in the phase of plotting. Although I am confident for the main plot and I am still working on the sub plots, I am stuck because I do not know whether the actions (step outline) I put in each episode, are enough or maybe too much. Any idea of how I overcome this technicality will be very much appreciated!!! Thanking you in advance." | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7872 | 7/8/08 | I am writing a script based on a living person. He wrote a biography; I want the film to hold the same title, but i am NOT using any of the material in the book. Just his name & book title. I am creating the character, but it is based on him. It's a self published book. Do I need to buy film rights? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7863 | 6/12/08 | Mr. Flashner, I recently met an agent who is interested in reading my work. I would like to send to him a screenplay that might be optioned -- talks are in the works. Should I mention the potential option to the agent or is it unprofessional to do so at this stage? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7853 | 6/5/08 | Hello Mr. Flashner, Im working on a possible script idea that I know I have to do alot of research on to fully develope my ideas. Is using the internet a better tool for research or going to the library. Most books from the library seem to be very old. How do you know how much research you need to do before overwhelming yourself? Thanks in advance | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7835 | 4/30/08 | Graham, thanks for the 7828 advice. We spoke and scheduled a time to get more into where I'd like to go with the script, and what I want out of them. She inquired whether I want to direct it myself, and my openness to the indie market. She said that I have "something really good and interesting that can go places, we just need to discuss what they are and how to get there." Your thoughts? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7831 | 4/29/08 | hello. Do the legal rules of adaptation apply if I've been hired to write the story of a famous child prodigy chess player, written about in maggazines in the 80's, but our story will only be "inspired by truth" and focus on his adult life? Also, what MUST be in my contract? thx, la | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7828 | 4/28/08 | Hi Graham, A few months ago a friend submitted my script to the William Morris Agency. It was passed on to their leading NYC Motion Picture Agent. I received positive feedback w/some notes via email requesting a few changes to make it studio ready. I did. It was sent to their LA Motion Picuture Agent who now wants to speak via phone. I'm a bit nervous and want to be prepared. Any suggestions? Thanks, Esther. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7811 | 4/15/08 | I'm about to mail my script to an interested producer. Is there anything I should include in it? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7786 | 3/17/08 | Hello Graham: I am currently writing scripts in Word and using a converter to make them PDF. The PDF file is shorter (good) but leaves character names on one page and dialog on the next (bad)--unlike the Word file. Is there any way I can get a PDF file that exactly matches the Word file page for page, or format in PDF in the first place? Final Draft, Movie Magic? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7780 | 3/11/08 | Dear Graham, Do I still need a complete screenplay if my story is already published in local comic books? *I have written a 13 pages of treatment based on the story. Best Regards, Justin | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7768 | 3/4/08 | Mr. Flashner, they say in HollyWood as a screenwriter its hard to crack into. Are they judging that on the movies they've been making lately? Surely not because there are few movies worth my money that came out this year and last year. HollyWood has disappointed me in their films (without being critical). But is that what they are judging it by? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7758 | 2/24/08 | Do I have to put my WGA registration number on my screenplay? If so, where? On the title page? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7746 | 2/13/08 | Hi Graham, By reading previous answered queries, I know you recommend getting an agent to represent you and try to sell your screenplay. I live in Canada, do you suggest I seek an agent from Canada or someone from L.A. instead? Would I have to pay them anything before I sell any work? Thank you, Victoria | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7742 | 2/8/08 | Hi Graham, I have many ideas for screenplays, however I am an amateur writer - I find myself having some difficulty creating a story and perfecting characters. My question is, is there a software program that I can purchase that can help me with creating the story and characters from my idea? I use final draft, is this one of the best programs to use for screenwriting? Thank you for your help. Victoria | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7720 | 1/16/08 | If I were to make a very low budget movie either feature length or short film, oppose to just trying to sell a screenplay, would I have a better chance in getting an agent, pitching to studios or production companies--seeing how hard it is to sell a script in the first place? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7709 | 1/15/08 | What are my chances of selling, pitching a reality show concept to producers, agents or production companies? Is selling a reality show concept easier than trying to sell a screenplay? And how with this current writers strike will effect my process? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7685 | 12/23/07 | I'm a writer, thanks to your earlier help. Now, in 2008, I want to send my first draft screenplays to a movie producer. My best choice is Joel Silver. How do I send him or his company my work the best way? Is it still possible to get 15 minutes time before being rejected or accepted by movie producers? Do I need an agent? Please reply. Thanky you very much. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7666 | 12/8/07 | I have an idea for a screenplay that I am very confident about. How do you expand on an idea to develop it into a full script or at least a detailed outline? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7641 | 11/22/07 | I have several production companies looking at a script. Is it better to check with them after a month or two, or should I just wait and allow them to contact me? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7636 | 11/19/07 | Mr. Flashner, I have one question that I can never get a "direct" amswer too. Do you think a sixteen-year-old guy sell a script? Be honest. I'm sure you'll say something like, "Not at this age for you lack life experience and are not yet educated enough." I just want a simple answer and I'll never post up another question. Yes...or...no? Jacob | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7618 | 11/15/07 | Mr. Flashner, I'm only sixteen. I know the proper way to write a film script, format the dialogue, ect. But because of my age what do you think I should do? Wait until I'm older? I mean, how would I have known if I don't, at least, try. The worse that can happen is they reject my scipt. I want your opinion on this matter. I appreciate it. Jacob | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7603 | 11/9/07 | Mr. Flashner, I need some professionals to read and give me notes on my script. One experted was to contact me on "writing doctors." But another expert told me they may actually re-write it in their own way. If that is true, I'm not paying someone to change MY SCRIPT. Not a chance in hell! I just need help with grammar and good advice. So what should I do about this? -Jacob | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7557 | 10/19/07 | Mr. Graham, since a writer I have no say in the actors/actresses what abouth this...could I send my script directly to the actor/actress until the ones I wanted to perform in the feature all agreed to it? How would this work? Or would it? I don't mean to sound like some damn rookie, but what do you think? Thanks.... -Jacob | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7534 | 10/14/07 | Graham, I have a written script over 180 pages long and its still not finished. Is it true how many script pages you have is how long that film will be? Explain this to me.... Jacob | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7533 | 10/14/07 | i have a script,written by me.i wanna know if i can get a chance to sell my script in states or isn't it allowed?am a kenyan also interested in movie making | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7531 | 10/13/07 | Graham, I've been told by another expert in order to have the above-name-title on the title of a film you've written you need some sucessful pieces of work. Like what? Would written songs, a book of poems and poetry, or anything related get me enough credit to do so? And what is the above-name-title billing? Thanks.... -Jacob | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7527 | 10/11/07 | Q: How is it you come to getting the job of being the "film caster?" Is it true, "its not what you know, but who you know?" If so, could I do the casting for my own written film? And are their age limits, required classes? Thanks... -Jacob | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7524 | 10/11/07 | Graham, I have a serious question. Forever writers had no say in their writings as far as actor/actresses, location, ect. Its like whatever happened to their script happened. Q: Is it possible to take a revolutionary idea to a major film studio of a document granting writers choices on their work if over 65% of the crew sign off on it? -Jacob | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7520 | 10/10/07 | Every time I write a story I vision an actor or actress as my figure to follow. Q: If I send my script to a director, is it possible to make a contract allowing me to choose the actors/actresses if they are completely suitable? Has it ever happened before or would it be the very first time? -Jacob | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7495 | 9/6/07 | RE: 7494 Graham, thanks for the positive reply. Yes, they are first waiting for me to address their notes. I liked the notes very much and agreed with most of them with the exception that I was asked to make it a more politically neutral script as it deals with terrorism and the Middle East turmoil and is pro Israel. I would have rethink the entire script and change a lot to get this accomplished. Esther. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7494 | 9/6/07 | Hi Graham, A friend submitted my script to someone at the William Morris Agency, after it made it to the PAGE Quarter-Finals. The friend replied that it’s better then 95% of the usual stuff. “It’s riveting, gripping, and touching”. She sent it to their top agent in Hollywood. They replied with “a really good read”, and sent me extensive and encouraging notes with a request for major alterations in preparation for a studio-read. Your thoughts? Thanks,Esher. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7478 | 8/30/07 | I've been researching numbers -- how many scripts are written each year, how many of those are sold, and how many of THOSE get made. But I can't seem to find any estimate of the number of scripts optioned per year. Do you have a rough number or a good book recommendation that might tell me? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7467 | 8/15/07 | My screenplay recently made the top 10% of the 2007 Nicholl Screenwriting Competition. The script was an unpolished version of a script that was sent in its polished version to an executive at a major prodco. (The executive wanted to see the script.) It’s been three months and I haven’t heard from the executive. Should I send an email stating the script recently cracked the Nicholl top 10%? Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7463 | 8/9/07 | I have a published novel that would translate well into a screenplay. Engaging dialogue, characters with depth, very visual. Would I be able to pitch the novel as is? I would have to share any revenue with my publisher as per my contract, would this be a problem for a potential production company? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7461 | 8/8/07 | Hi Graham, Compliments, I'm Emmanuel Obiorah a script writer with many scripts and ideas, I express my appreciation for this site. my question which I've been looking for an opportunity like this to ask,"As a talented script writer from Africa with ideas is it possible to make it into Hollywood being african,I've some international standard scripts is it possible to sell or get them into Hollywood" please I hope that my question will be favourably answered. Thanks, Emmanuel | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7454 | 8/2/07 | RE: QUESTION #7434: I am an unproven writer but do have one decent writing sample, it made quarterfinals in a couple of notable contests, but given that would you still advise me to not query anyone on a potentially hot new idea until the script is finished and polished? Thanks, jac | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7442 | 8/1/07 | I am not a screenwriter, but I have written several treatments for my story ideas already. So my question is...How do I go about scheduling a pitch meeting with any producers or studios? How much money are they're offering for just selling your story ideas? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7434 | 7/27/07 | I recently took a class w/ Screenwriters Online, where the main selling pt. is offering new writers the chance to query agents and producers with story ideas. My question is, would it be unwise to query an agent or producer with an story idea on an uncompleted script? Given that if they like the idea, rather than wait for a script from an unproven writer they could simply hire a proven one? Thanks, jac | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7428 | 7/22/07 | As you know, some actors have their own production companies. If one feels a particular actor would empathize with his storys protagonist, is it probable that actor would ever see it if it were sent to his production company? Or do they have others in their employ to read scripts, instead? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7423 | 7/16/07 | hi, i want to know - what is "sase" i'm not familiar with that word. i'm from israel and the agents want a query and a sase and i want to know what is this word. thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7420 | 7/12/07 | An established producer has listed my script on his IMDb page as optioned material, but won't sign an option agreement with me. Worse yet is that he has changed the title of my script. My agent is aware of this yet doesn't offer me any advice and/or care. What should I do RE both my agent and the producer? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7412 | 7/7/07 | How wise is it for an unsolicited writer to try to pitch a vampire script? I mean, given that a low budget is in mind when writing it. Also, where would be choice places to pursue, in terms of potential buyers? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7383 | 6/21/07 | I sent a query to an agent. They emailed me and said they were not taking on any scripts now, but I should re submit my query in 2 months. Is this a nice way of sluffing me off, or could they really be interested? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7377 | 6/19/07 | Hi Graham, If an Agency or Studio Representative requests a synopsis, should a title page be included and if so, should the title page be like the title page for the script. Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7375 | 6/18/07 | Hi Graham, Can a logline and synopsis be typed on the same page? Besides having a title page, should the title also be placed on the 1st page of the script? Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7374 | 6/18/07 | Two weeks ago my agent sent an option agreement to a producer interested in optioning my script. The producer said he would sign it and send payment over shortly. I still haven't received anything, but this producer has already listed my script as optioned on his IMDb page. I contacted my agent about this over a week ago and haven’t heard a thing from him either. What do I do now? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7367 | 6/16/07 | On the WGA West website it said that you don't have to be in the western US to register a script. What is the difference between the east and west branches of the WGA. Is it better to get your work registered by the WGA or the U.S. Copyright Office. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7362 | 6/16/07 | What is an option and what do I have to put in a proposal to a publisher to option a book for film? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7358 | 6/15/07 | Hello Graham, I am looking to sell some high-concept ideas for feature films. I know that I should sell scripts, yet after really trying, I know for sure that I will not be able to write the scripts by myself. I also understood that it is very rare for producers to buy idea/s only. What is the most reasonable and pragmatic option- Selling ideas only? Treatments? Agent? Ghostwriter? Other reasonable and pragmatic suggestion. Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7335 | 6/11/07 | RE: #7322 Do I need to do anything if it was written about in 2 (at least) local newspapers in 1945. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7326 | 6/10/07 | I am a rookie screenwwriter but now I am in the process of writting a script. The question is, I want to substance my income by selling some of my good to great film ideas, how do I go about doing that? Or is it possible? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7321 | 6/9/07 | I am writing and directing a screenplay based on a local legend that took place at a mental institution that has been torn down. The events (which make the backstory, not the main plot) are based on research and the characters are fictional. What do I need to do, if anything, to aquire rights to the story. The events have never been proven to have actually happened. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7306 | 6/4/07 | I've had two very succesful Management companies request my screenplay in the same week. How long should I wait before emailing them to check on any progress? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7294 | 5/25/07 | Hello, Graham, how much is the option/ purchase price for a high budget Action/Epic feature movie? Does the price vary depending on whether the writer is new or old in the business? If the producer asks me how much I expect to get paid for my script, would it be ethical for me to even mention money? I know it's an agent's job, but I am unrepresented. Thanks a lot Arifa | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7289 | 5/24/07 | Hi, Graham, my first screenplay, high budget, Action/Epic, got the interest of Trancas International Films producer ("The Message", "Lion of the Desert", "Halloween" series). I am unrepresented. Should I ask for a referral from this producer to an agent/manager, or am I better off closing an option deal with him on my own? thank you Arifa | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7276 | 5/11/07 | I just wanted to let you know about a prodco that is a rip-off. Let other writers know also. Fylmar Productions, Beverly Hills is the company. They looked at queries on several screenplays of mine, and sent me emails saying if I wanted to invest $25,000 to $50,000 in each film they would get them produced. They never even read the scripts! This is completely ridiculous, please warn others. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7261 | 4/26/07 | I'm a young screenwriter and did a screenplay. It's based on a novel and an earlier version. So it's something like a remake. Who can give me exact informations about the (copy)right situation? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7255 | 4/22/07 | I live in the middle of PA. I write poems, stories, screenplays; whatever comes to mind. Even if I wouldn't want to be a screenwriter and move to NYC or LA, should I keep writing screenplays, then send them out to agencies when they're 100 percent done? Or am I wasting my time? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7253 | 4/21/07 | RESPONSE: 7252. Okay. I hear what you're saying. Would it be all right anyway to show it in a cover letter? You know, to show something? I never took any writing classes. Wouldn't it be better to have something to something on a cover than let it be bare? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7252 | 4/20/07 | I've been writing short stories and poems. One poem so far is going to be published on an online magazine. Don't know about the rest yet. If I got as many stories and poems published, would this be a big help to getting an agent and getting your screenplay read? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7235 | 4/16/07 | Hi Graham, I'm about to start my next script. I have written several log lines of different genres and would like my next project to have more success than my fist one, that hasen't had any since it's completion two months ago. The two I'm leaning to the most are a fantasy adventure with a hefty budget, and a drama set during ww2 with natzi elements inspired by a true story. Any suggestions?Thanks, Esty. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7199 | 3/19/07 | With the way the industry is today, is it safe to say with websites like Youtube & Myspace that agents and producers will notice you more if you made your own film from your script, rather than trying to sell your screenplay solely? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7188 | 3/19/07 | Is it easier to win the lottery than it is to sell a screenplay? LOL. Oh, yeah, I brought the Hollywood Creative Directory and went through the WGA. That was a wast of time. If these agents and producers aren't taking on new writers, then what's my next step? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7178 | 3/19/07 | Is it true that its impossible to sell a spec script these days because the spec market is low right now? And how many spec scripts with african-american themes have been sold in in the last year? And do I have to live in los angeles to even sell a script these days? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7167 | 3/12/07 | Hi Graham, your guidance finally got feedback from an agency. The asst informed me she spoke with the manager who read my script; he enjoyed the writing and would be interested in reading something else of mine. The problem: it's my 1st completed project. I'm currently working on my next 3 which are a couple of months from completion. How should I respond? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7159 | 3/4/07 | I'm un-produced and just received an option offer for my script. Nothing up front, back end purchase price is 3% of the below the line cost with base price $200,000.00, top price $350,000.00. 15 month option period with 12 month extension for $1000, 5% of net profits calculated on a favoured nations basis with the net percentage points of the producer. Good deal or bad deal? If bad, what terms do I want? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7150 | 2/28/07 | RESPONSE TO 7144: So it would be possible to sell a spec for the tv show HOUSE? Would this also mean being serious about writing with the staff, if accepted? Just like I said before, I just want to write one of my own then try and sell, but not really be apart of the show. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7147 | 2/28/07 | Hi Graham, I sent a script to a high level producer. 2 weeks after submitting the script, his asst. said the script will probably go into a weekend read and she will call me. 2 weeks later, I f/u again: "still not had their meeting to discuss the scripts with the interns" - will call once the verdict is in. Now, 2 wks later, nothing. How should approach the asst at this point? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7144 | 2/27/07 | RESPONSE TO 7143: I'm not sure if I should know this. What's a spec House? A spec script for the show HOUSE? If so, what would Grey's Anatomy have to do with that show? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7143 | 2/27/07 | I have been coming up with my own stories for Grey's Anatomy, wrote first two pages of a script. Is it okay for someone who isn't apart of that show, let alone in the movie business, write their own spec, then send to an agency? Or is writing it a bad idea? Considering it might not be read, for Grey's Anatomy has success, plus they have their own writers? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7134 | 2/24/07 | RESPONSE TO 7131: Yes. I have it as a short. I think it's pretty well said what was supposed to be said. I knew it wouldn't be a full length script; 90 to 120 pages. This story doesn't need to be that long. You said if I want to film it as a short, that's one thing. Do you mean that I would have film it? Any advice? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7131 | 2/22/07 | Hi. How are you? I have a script that is only 10 pages. That includes the title page. I don't know what to do with it. Should I send it to the WGA then an agency? I've seen unproduced scripts on simply scripts and some were only a couple pages. Do agencies even read these? Or are scripts that short considered garbage? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7111 | 2/7/07 | Does the one page per minute rule apply to sitcoms or just films? I read in a screenwriting book that scripts for sitcoms should be 40-50 pages but only run 22 minutes. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7106 | 2/6/07 | Hi Graham, Thanks for all your help. I just got a request for the first twenty pages of my script in response to a targeted e-query from a producer. He requested I email them to him. Should I send him just the first twenty pages or the entire script with a line in the email saying something like "I decided to send you the whole script in case you'll really want to keep reading it"? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7104 | 2/6/07 | Hi Graham, Got 4 requests to see my script. 2 via mail and 2 via email. One production co, said the script will probably go into a weekend read and that she, the asst, will call. The via email co's never replied to the email in which I requested a time to follow up. The Agency said someone will call only if there's an interest. My Q's is what's the procedure now? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7098 | 2/6/07 | When you get to the end of a very exciting scene can you cut to a new scene happening simutaniously and go back later to finish the original scene. I read a really good book that did that and it caused a lot of tension wondering about the conclusion of the first scene. Would that be appropriate for a screenplay or just a novel. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7094 | 2/5/07 | Sir, I'm planning to write an epic.I wanted 120 scenes (page length of 150-180 pages)but have ended up with 85. (this is enough for 140-160 pages). I don't wanna be adamant that I need 120 scenes and add stuff that is not necessary. I wanna go ahead and write it a little bit shorter. any suggestions. Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7077 | 1/25/07 | Hi Graham, After sending numerous personalized e-queries, I've gotten a couple of positive replies. A big time production co. and an agency want to see my script. My Q's is what's the best mailing method for script submission? Fed Ex, UPS? Next day?Does it have to be registered so that I would have physical proof? Thanks in advace. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7073 | 1/25/07 | I read in Q&A a answer about how much gets paid for true stories but I would like to be more specific to see if the price range is the same. True Stories that air on Lifetime such as true stories of court room drama when someone is wrongly convicted and proves their innocent, is the price range paid for these true stories generally the same as this answer: from $35K-$100K? Thanks for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7064 | 1/21/07 | Hello. What do you think about submitting email queries to producers and agents through a website like “ So You Wanna Sell a Script” or “ Scriptblaster “? Thank you in advance. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7058 | 1/17/07 | Hi Graham, I've recently completed my first action/adventure script and wanted to get your opinion on query submission and cold calling production companies that do movies in my genre. Can I succeed withoug cold calling. I ask b/c cold calling is very time consuming and makes me a bit anxious. In short, what is the best marketing method? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7050 | 1/12/07 | Graham, After a finishing a script, i sent it to 4 different places for evaluation, 2 of which are industry pros, and i've gotten 4 different feedback suggestions, with no consistency in the notes, and some condradicting each other. i still don't know if it's market ready or where to go to find out. I appreciate any insights. Thanks, jac | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7037 | 1/7/07 | Mr. Flashner, I recently attended a workshop run by an executive at a major prodco. The exec wants to see a rewrite of my script. I'm almost ready for delivery. Is it common practice to email scripts or send by priority mail? Sorry if this is a dumb question, but I want to professional. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7033 | 1/4/07 | Graham, I'm a Native American-American writer. The reviews on my scripts have been pretty bad but I always use the, "I'm a Native American-American writer", line on every query letter I send to producers to cash in on the affimative action thing for a "free ride." Does affirmative action apply to Indians also or is it just blacks? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7026 | 12/29/06 | I have a boxing script that has done reasonably well in reputable contests, BUT, have been told the fight scenes are too detailed. It was suggested I read Rocky. The way Stallone got around that was to have an announcer call the fight. I can't do that so if I don't convey the intensity of the fight in writing how can the reader know what's happening. What's the scoop on fight scenes? Thanks. Craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 7016 | 12/27/06 | I'm an African-American writer, and this is my first time attempting a novel or screenplay. Which of the two would you recommend? Which one would I have a realistic shot of success in? And I only have time just for one? I need help | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6999 | 12/10/06 | hi, I have a character in say script #1 of mine and he becomes the lead in script #2. how do I register my character so that there are no law suits flying on me if those scripts get made? regards, Gururaj Deshpande | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6997 | 12/9/06 | hi, I have formatting problem. I have three countries my screenplay. I want one to look like old 70's style with faulty lab processing. the other with the "fight club" kind of cinematography. and the yet another with blue filter used. so I have mentioned each location in the slugline like this: EXT. BILL'S HOUSE - DAY - country 1 in the title page with the p:s about how to visualize the the locale. is the formatting correct? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6991 | 12/8/06 | Mr. Flashner, I was recently in a workshop with an executive from a major production company. The executive liked my work and asked for a rewrite of the script. The workshop was five months ago. Is it okay to send scripts to executives around 12/21? When does the industry shut down for the holidays? Or, should I wait until the beginning of next year? Thanks for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6989 | 12/8/06 | Mr. Flashner, In response and question about QUESTION #6986: selling an idea, I have done homework on this and was wondering the same, my problem has been all the scam artist out there. Could please tell me and the person who inquired that question where do you go to inquire about selling an idea? A producer, director, Do you need an agent for just an idea? Thank you, Laura | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6986 | 12/7/06 | Does anyone out there buy story ideas for films or television shows? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6980 | 12/4/06 | I have a story I want to send to Playboy Magazine. Would it be a good idea to send it to the WGA, first? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6962 | 11/26/06 | I've seen many screenplays of the same movie, written by different people. Do pro-companies look at more than one screenplay for a certain movie. For instense, I saw 5 screenplays written for FREDDY VS. JASON by different writers. Could you write a screenplay for something, try selling it, even if they have a script for it? Referring FREDDYVS.JASON because I started writing a sequel. I'm unknown, but I think it might sell. Bad idea? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6956 | 11/24/06 | If I sold a script, would that mean the company that bought it has all rights to the property, or are they something you sign away after it's purchased (If you want to sign them away)? Would this include shories? I want to send a story to a magazine but don't know if I still have all rights, if accepted. What if I (in future) wanted to make a screenplay-book of the story? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6951 | 11/21/06 | I've just won a credible screenplay contest (MovieBytes rates this contest at 4.1) and now want to find an agent. I've got a list of agencies and addresses, but don't know if I should call, mail or email a query letter. Any advice? Thanks. Craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6923 | 11/14/06 | I recently did a rewrite of a script which was then re-written again by the director. He used a number of scenes I created as well as dialogue. I was co-producer but differed my wages as co-producer. I am going to be compensated as Co- producer (1000 per week) But I have been offered nothing for my work as contributing writer. Should I expect any screen credit and or profit points? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6893 | 10/16/06 | I would like to have my house used in a film or tv commercial. How would I go about getting my house casted? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6891 | 10/15/06 | Great! That really helps. AND - What is the correct way to write to have: (Mesopatamia-612 BCE) flash on the screen during action. I've been using the (ACTION) line with, Title Card: ----- is that okay? AND - what is the SHOT element used for in Final Draft? Thank You for your time and expertise, JoJo | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6890 | 10/15/06 | Oops! Gotta watch that spelling! I have an EXT.-DAY scene and at the end, there is a morph of that reality. Do I use the SHOT or ACTION or another SCENE HEADING to put the SFX, etc. on its own line, or just put it at the beginning of the ACTION. I want to be able to put my ideas on the page as clearly as possible. Thank you for your help. JoJo | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6889 | 10/14/06 | Mr. Flesher, I have a 3rd draft of a feature, that is being looked at by a reader. I am happy with it! But! It's Fantasy.. magic and stuff. I use Final Draft. What is the proper way to go from a reality scene to a magical moment (on the page)? How do you say(this would be a special effect) a dream, a vision, etc. The people that have read it, get it, but.. Thanks, JoJo | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6883 | 10/13/06 | I'll be buying a new computer at month's end. I was thinking about a Pentium Four. Is this a good choice? What do you suggest? I've asked my friends, but they don't understand the needs of a writer. Please help. Sincerely, Diane | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6867 | 10/7/06 | I have some ideas about a movie that's based partly in history, on current events, and possible future outcomes for the human race. I have never even thought about writing a play or movie or anything else before. I have some really good ideas and would like to get them out there. Any help is greatly appreciated as I don't know the process. Thank you so much. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6858 | 10/2/06 | I co-own the rights to a succesful stage musical. A movie producer is interested in aquiring the film rights and making a movie of the show. What are the industry standards, if any, with regard to how much money I should be asking for the film option, what share of the film budget I could ask for as a payment and what percentage of box office I might expect? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6845 | 9/30/06 | I know its about the story, but I want to find information on other black screenwriters in Hollywood. Every magazine, screenwriting workshops, self-help professionals seems to be all white. I want to know where I can find out about minorities who have sold or even option a screenplay. Any minority screenwriting professionals around. I just want to know because it seems to be a lack of them. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6834 | 9/30/06 | I have a script that has a lot of voiceover similar to "Goodfellas" & "Casino". Is using VO helpful in a spec script? Or, just say the hell with the industry standards and craft it the way I wanted it be? And...is there a certain style of writing a script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6822 | 9/29/06 | Can you write and sell a treatment instead of the actual screenplay? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6818 | 9/29/06 | sir i will like to know if i can sell a story and not a script | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6811 | 9/25/06 | How do I sell A screenplay without an agent? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6795 | 9/19/06 | For an aspiring writer how would I go about writing stories for magazines? Short things. Like, a half a page long, longer. However long the story is. How could I go about this? I don't know if they would only give you a check if they published it or if they would because you wrote something and sent it in. I think it would be good. Like a little experience for myself. Getting published. Advice? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6774 | 9/17/06 | What should be the max of pages of a short script? Who buys them? And how much are they usually sold for? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6772 | 9/15/06 | How short can a spec script be? I keep hearing 95-114 pages. What if my script is only 90 pages? Is that too short? I understand that one page = one minute, but the movie I'm writing is really a 90 minute movie. So what's the problem? Do I need more "stuff" in there on the presumption that SOMETHING will be cut, and the script needs some kind of room to do that? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6743 | 8/29/06 | I need a referral to a script writer in Los Angeles. My first book is published. The second book is with the second copy reader. The material is appropriate for a movie. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6734 | 8/24/06 | Hi Graham, Last year I optioned a 'short' to a producer. I read, printed, signed, and returned the option agreement to him. However, it is now a year later, and I do not have a copy of the agreement with his signature, nor do I have a the 'nominal' fee agreed upon in the agreement. I have reminded him twice now in the past month. Is there a set period that etiquette demand that I wait? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6719 | 8/18/06 | Dear Grahamm, I'm writing a biopic aimed at the TV marketplace. I wonder how many pages should a teleplay contatin - 2 hour or 3 hour longform. Thanks. Nisso | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6715 | 8/16/06 | Dear Graham, A development company claimed that they present my script to 20th Century Fox after getting me to do a budget, is there a way to prove the authenticity of this company’s claims? Could anyone be contacted at 20th Century Fox over this matter? Thank you for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6714 | 8/16/06 | Dear Graham, Have you heard of any film festival held in Europe which last for 60 days starting from 1st August 2006 where producers present their script with a budget to get financing for their project from potential financier? Thank you for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6713 | 8/15/06 | Hi Graham, I will be in LA the 1st of September. Do you know if there are any "pitch sessions" going on i LA during Septermber? Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6703 | 8/13/06 | Can you help me decide in which screenwriting software is better. Is it Final Draft? Or, Movie Magic? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6693 | 8/13/06 | About the screenwriting Expo5 that's coming in October. Is it the place to be for inexperience writers to network an make that connection? Or, is it a waste of my time, because I will only be dealing with is low-level employees--which I've been hearing lately. Help me out before I make that decision to travel across country. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6687 | 8/11/06 | Dear Graham, I am sorry to have asked you the inappropriate questions, but if the company is scamming writers, it would be good if you can point out the possibility to make every writer aware to prevent more writers getting victimized. Thank you | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6684 | 8/11/06 | Hi, Celebrity Endeavors demanded for the budget and casting to be done by Studioreaders.com, Celebrity Endeavors claimed that Studio Readers is the best in the market of what they do. Have you heard of Studio Readers? Do they really have any credential in the business? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6675 | 7/31/06 | RESPONSE 6672. If I sent a script to an agent, they sold it, magic happened. But the agent didn't think I was serious about screenwriting because I turned down an assignment, is it possible they wouldn't take me serious for other screenplays I write? Speaking for people who only want to write their own screenplays or a sequel to another movie they had ideas for. I mean, if they have a credit. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6672 | 7/31/06 | RESPONSE TO 6670. What about someone who shows a synopsis? What would be the point of verbally pitching? Is verbally pitching only for ideas you have but haven't written? Would most agents not take you seriously if you weren't ready to pitch verbally or didn't want to take on an assignment? Sorry about all the questions. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6670 | 7/30/06 | When an agent would send you out on a meeting would they make all the arrangements to make sure you get there? Plane tickets, pick you up at airport? What if the writer is not good at verbally pitching? What if I pitch the idea in a way making it sound bad? What if the writer doesn't have education?Would they send you out on meetings and give you future projects? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6663 | 7/27/06 | Graham, Is there any way that I can get in touch with the writer/producer who worked with Celebrity Endeavors? I am about to commit myself to them, and I would like to know that I am not just wasting my time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6656 | 7/23/06 | I was wondering. If I sent a synopsis, script, to an agent, they liked and sold it. What would that writer have to go for a meeting for? To pitch more ideas? Just talk with them? To have them sign you? Is it important for the writer to verbally pitch another project? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6634 | 7/1/06 | Hello my name is Brian and i would like to know how a first time screenwriter get market for his work or break into the bussines after writing a fairly high budget picture that would only get the attention of high profile producers not indie filmmarkers. Is my writing in vain because i can't get a top producers to look at my work? some advice please | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6631 | 6/28/06 | Hi Graham, When reading produced screenplays, the scripts are filled with direction such as CUT TO:, DISSOLVE TO: FADE UP ON, also (parentheticals) etc. I also use these sparingly. As a first time screenwriter with only 2 finished screenplays, is it OK to do this? I’ve read that new writers should only stick with the words and avoid any directing. Any truth to it? Thanks again. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6624 | 6/23/06 | I've written a screenplay. Now it's up to the synopsis. I'm having trouble with that. Could you write a synopsis like a description from a book jacket for a book? I mean, the synopsis is what gets an ageny, company interested. Are there any tips you can give, or any websites that tell you how to write a winning syopsis? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6620 | 6/20/06 | Hi Graham, I've got a polished 115 page high concept thriller spec script and a 90 page docu-drama about a famous person. I'm new to the business and have no contacts yet. What is the best way to get these screeplays optioned, and hopefully sold. I'm planning on posting at least one of them on a (so-called reputable)website. Any suggestions. Thank you, I've enjoyed your answers to other writers questions. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6606 | 6/11/06 | What would I do if I had a good title and I found out it was a title of a movie already. Could you still use it? What if that movie was back in the 1930s? Could you use it then? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6574 | 6/9/06 | If you're lucky enough to sell your first screenplay, could you use that first sell as a springboard for more work? Would you be able to sell another spec script or a pitch even if the script that you sold wasn't the talk of the town aka "Bidding War"? Or, could your first sell be your only sell? Meaning...you just got lucky, collect your money, retire and get out of town. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6571 | 6/9/06 | Thanks for your advice about getting a budget together for Paramount. I got a great referral from Celebrity Endeavors for a line producer, created a budget and received a green light at Paramount for my film. In answer to your question, I am not a Director but a writer/producer. Had no luck selling scripts through agents so I decided to team up for production. Why don't more writers do this? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6568 | 6/8/06 | Hello Graham, i want to know if there's a way out for upcoming writers who does'nt have the fee for registration, sell their work.Iam an international who wants to sell to Hollywood producers. thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6566 | 6/7/06 | I have a pitch meeting with Paramount about a screenplay and they asked me to bring in my script and a budget for the film. Can you tell me how to get a budget for my screenplay? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6564 | 6/5/06 | I'm done writing one of my scripts but am not sure where to go about writing a synopsis. Agents say to send them an equery. Are they the same thing? All a synposis is, is just the main plot of the story. But what else should I put in it? I'm worried if I right in a wrong way I might make a really good idea look bad. Any tips? Where might I read some? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6554 | 6/2/06 | Hi Graham. Are there any representation agencies that will let you sbmit your script without mailing them a query first? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6542 | 6/1/06 | Should some "Voice Over" dialect be used in a spec script? Or none at all? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6532 | 6/1/06 | Does Hollywood buy stageplays? If so, who buys them and where can I get information? And what is the average sell of a stageplay if one is sold? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6489 | 5/4/06 | Im torn between writing screenplays or novels. I've been attempting to succeed in screenplays since 1999 with no luck, but it's my passion. And I know, go what your heart follows and you'll succeed. But Hollywood, is all about who you know. So, lately, I've been thinking about writing novels so I can at least get my work out there, but I hear it's hard to published, too. I I need some advice. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6487 | 5/4/06 | Hey Graham, I want to reformat a stage musical to a screenplay musical. The stage version has overview, song list, character breakdown, scene and act divisions, plus lyrics. How much of this do I drop for the screenplay version? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6484 | 5/4/06 | Mr. Flashner , I Love to write , lately songs and short stories have given way to Movie Scripts. I know little about the process other than my writting. Could you point me in the right direction? I would like to know who and how I can sell my work , and if I would be allowed rights to the finished work after transformation from the written to the visual. Thank You ! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6473 | 5/2/06 | Does Hollywood buy short stories? And what are some of the films that were based from a short story. And, does publishers take short stories seriously as they do with novels? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6462 | 4/25/06 | Is 118 pp too long for a spec drama? I'm told the "standard" is 110-115 for drama specs. Thanks, John | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6459 | 4/25/06 | Graham, 5 & 7 years ago I was passed on by a Paramount exec and an indepedent producer on the same script. Since then I've worked w/ a script consultant, changed the title and rewritten the script more to market standards (e.g. according to my script consultant) and I wanna know if this script or my name would be dead b/c of having been passed on by 2 well-known Hollywood producers. Thanks, Jack | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6457 | 4/24/06 | Graham, Is there such thing as a "dog" list circulated among producers and/or agents that lists screenplays and writers who's material has been turned down by a producer or agent, and that if a new writer's name gets on that list twice no one will read his material? If so, does this apply to screenwriting contests and coverage services, too? Thanks, Jack | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6444 | 4/18/06 | Hi Graham, I have an EP attached and a very well known Production company interested in my script. The development exec loves it and is getting it ready for her boss. They think it is a very commercial project. If they come back and want to turn this into a film what should I consider? How does one get an agent or should I get and agent or lawyer under this circumstance? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6426 | 4/5/06 | Any tips you can give on writing a book? I've looked it up and didn't find as much stuff as I did on screenwriting. Like is there a certain point your margins should be at? What size should the letters be? 12, 14.Or does it matter? Should it be double spaced? Any tips? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6422 | 4/5/06 | I have the rights to a true story. Are there people I should target to get this screenplay to? For example, companies who focus on "true story" scripts. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6421 | 4/5/06 | I'm submitting my script to 6 screenplay contests. One asked for numbers next to sluglines so I've done this on all the scripts I've printed. Tonight I saw one contest that states scripts with numbered scenes won't be accepted. I've already submitted to three contests and am now worried that they will dump my script in the trash simply because I've got numbers next to sluglines. Are my concerns justified? Thanks. Craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6420 | 4/4/06 | Celebrity endeavors wants to manage me as a writer/producer. They will refer me to a firm to budget my script ($4500) and Celebrity will guide me through the development process to a pre-sale with a distributor. Is Celebrity legit? Their website says they're 20+ years old. The budget will cost $4500. A separte firm does the budget. celebrity takes % only on pre-sale$$$. Advise...Please. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6419 | 4/4/06 | I am a new writer and have been offered rep by a wga agency. They want 450.00 for editing then we will shop my script around. What do you think of this? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6416 | 4/3/06 | Hey Graham, how can a screenwriter learn to estimate a budget for his scripts. As you know, that is useful information in marketing your scripts. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6411 | 3/27/06 | I was wondering if you could tell me some good script consultants or analysts that wouldn't cost me a small fortune? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6405 | 3/26/06 | Response to #6404 & #6392. Dear Graham, I find your help invaluable. I've had assessments on some of my work through the Writer's Guild here in Australia but the feedback wasn't near as helpful as yours. I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated your guidance. Warm regards, Craig Bottrell | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6404 | 3/25/06 | In the "Writer's tips" area of one of the screenplay contests I'm submitting my script to it says using "CUT TO" or "DISSOLVE TO" is outdated, and instead one should just use a slugline to show a scene change. Is this true all the time or just for this contest? Many thanks. Craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6394 | 3/25/06 | If you're trying to break in the business and you're a first-time screenwriter, will you have a better opportunity getting your screenplay either sold or made by independent companies or producers as oppose to trying to target the hollywood studio and agencies? And where can I find a complete list of independent companies and producers? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6392 | 3/25/06 | I've had some 'experts' tell me to provide an agent, producer, script assessor or screenplay contest with a good logline but never give them a synopsis as it could give them a reason not to read your script. I've also had others tell me the exact opposite. I hate writing synopsis so but if it is essential I'll do it. Who is right Graham? Thanks. Craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6378 | 3/18/06 | I have script about XYZ. A person, unknown to me, is looking to produce a film about XYZ. We share a mutual acquaintance. Acquaintance is requesting a finder's fee. What is appropriate: * Introduction fee, regardless of eventual outcome. * set amount or percentage, if - script is purchased. - script is produced. 4. What is average fee/percentage? 5. who pay fees? Writer or Producer? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6341 | 3/7/06 | Since I live in Europe, and not in America, is it possible to find an agent by e-mail and intoroduce myself and my work by e-mail? I could fly to US, but only when I am certain that I have found agent.It would take 2 years to earn for my plane-ticket.Where can I start looking for agents?THANKS... | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6339 | 3/7/06 | Hello from Europe.I am starting to write a screen play in english. BUT,my country is far away and "poor",and so am I.It is impossible for me to find a Croatian agent (we don't realy have agents) and I don't have money to pay the agent.SO,is it possible to find American agent even if I am not American and living in America,and is there any agent who will help me for free(if they like my movie-script)? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6324 | 3/1/06 | Hi Graham. I have written 3 screenplays. If I dont sell them in Sweden my plan is to translate them into english and take a trip to L.A. Do you think it looks to "manic" if I have 3 screenplay with me when I contact agents? Or shall I give them 3 synopsis and tell them to choose the one the like and contact me if they want to read the screenplay? Thanks for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6280 | 2/21/06 | Can a short spec screenplay be taken as serious as a feature length one? And can you sell a short? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6278 | 2/21/06 | Hi! Me again. Re: #6275, is it normal to not have any kind of contract before I write the pilot (no option, no formal declaration of if-then)? Since my connection is thru my mgr, things are very informal, but I would prefer something in writing. Am I just being paranoid? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6275 | 2/20/06 | My manager's well-connected son's new prodco has shown interest in my tv ideas. They loved my outline, had very few notes, and now want an (unpaid) spec pilot. Problem: they see it as an hour drama. I see it as a sitcom. They, however, are willing to look at my sitcom effort. I have no writing credits, so do I give them a drama or wow 'em with my sitcom? This is my first time writing either. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6272 | 2/19/06 | Hi Graham, I've got a script that I'm ready to shop around Hollywood. I live in Sydney Australia and I'm not quite sure what my first step should be. I'm prepared to work hard and dig etc etc but I' like to know where to start and what path to follow. Any insights? Many thanks. Craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6268 | 2/17/06 | I am currently writing a screenplay set in the 1940s. Being relatively young I really do not know how people spoke back then (even though I have seen plenty of movies based or made in the 40s.) I was wondering if there was anyway to find out how they spoke and the grammar they used, etc. Keep in mind I have University resources. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6254 | 2/15/06 | As an aspring African-American screenwriter, I would love to know about the ratio of black screenwriters in Hollywood. Because as I attempt to research I found hardly any thats sold either specs or pitches, and when I read some of the screenwriting magazines, no articles or reference mention to any screenwriter of color or any ethic group. So, my question to you are there a lot of minority screenwriters in Hollywood today? Or a handful? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6243 | 2/14/06 | If we are talking about long-term. Realistically, who would have a longer and profitable career. A screenwriter or a novelist? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6234 | 2/8/06 | Hi Graham. A small production company asked to read my script 8-9 weeks ago. I haven't heard from them since. I e-mailed them to follow up (a week ago), but didn't get any response. They didn't give me their phone number so I can't call. Is it a normal situation? What should I do? Thank you for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6225 | 2/7/06 | Is it okay to use a lot of "Voice Over" in a spec screenplay if it brings the best out of the script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6214 | 2/7/06 | Can you sell a short story in Hollywood? Is selling a short story the same as selling a novel or screenplay? Have there been films or television shows made by a short story or article? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6205 | 2/3/06 | Hello Graham. While querying production companies, who's the best person to address your letter to? Development assistant, creative executive, producer, etc. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6197 | 2/1/06 | Where can I find a list of african-american agents, producers, directors, and a list of black screenwriters or organzations? And realistically, what are my chances as an african-american screenwriter able to sell a screenplay where this area is dominated by whites? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6188 | 2/1/06 | I need some advise. I'm an aspiring African-American writer from Atlanta at a crossroads with my next story about writing it as a novel or a screenplay. I love both, but I can only do one. Would I have a better success writing it as a novel? Or screenplay. Now you might be saying is he writing for profit? But who don't, right? I don't know which way to go. Novel or Screenplay. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6181 | 1/30/06 | I need a good definition of "Treatment". So far "blow by blow without dialogue" just isn't cutting it and I can't find any good writing samples. You're doing a good thing. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6172 | 1/29/06 | So, what you guys are saying it's very possible you can sell your screenplay, get representation without being in Los Angeles and living home -- unless you have to? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6167 | 1/28/06 | I want employ a Montage/Series of Shots to show a character working in a gym (ie, cleaning toilets, sweeping etc) over a period of two months. Do I use Montage or S.O.S.? And how do I make it clear to the viewer that a significant amount of time has passed? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6160 | 1/27/06 | There is this agency company called... "The Screenplay Agency" (website www.screenplayagency.com) that likes my screenplay. But before I could have an agent shop my work around I would have to pay a $95.00 critique fee. Is this usual in the business? Or,I'm about to be set-up for a scam? Now, my work is registered. And I have not signed anything with them yet. Should I be worried? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6152 | 1/27/06 | I hear a lot of talk about how your script should perfect, with no typos, no misspelling and grammar have to be on point. But when I read screenplay's whether it's a spec that's been sold, a contest winner or scripts that has been already made into a movie, i see all kinds of typos, bad grammar, and misspelling. Is there a double standard being played here? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6142 | 1/26/06 | Would I have a greater success in selling my screenplay or even getting an agent being in Los Angeles by making contact and networking, instead of being all the way on the otherside of the country in Virginia where I can only simply send query letters? And would they take me a little bit seriously just by being out there? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6108 | 1/7/06 | Dear Mr. Flashner, I am starting a new screenplay. Today, I was coming up with the names of the characters. I found out that one of the character's names is used in another movie. Do I need to change the name to avoid legal difficulties? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6096 | 1/3/06 | Hey Graham. I live in Portugal and I'm about to use a friend in LA as a go between to mail my query letters to agents and producers. What are your thoughts on that? I'd also like to know if agents ever request scripts from writers with no credits under their belt. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6082 | 12/21/05 | Hey Graham: I have written a spec script with two A-list actors in mind for the leads. Both have their own production companies. I do not currently have an agent. Is there any way I can get this script into the hands of these two actors? Will they read it? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6079 | 12/18/05 | How would I go about getting rights to re-make an old sitcom. does 13 weeks make a full 1/2 hour season? can you choose the actors you would like to be in the sitcom? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6071 | 12/15/05 | Hey Graham. This is a followup to #6067. What I meant was, do I show a fictional headline from the Washington Post or, say, the madeup Washington Gazette? In "It Could Happen to You," yours truly is shown reading a fake headline from the New York Post. Same question for real TV news anchors vs. madeup ones. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6069 | 12/15/05 | Mr. Flashner, what are the chances for a person like me who's English is second language to break into the business? Do Hollywood people care about a high concept and can forgive some language flaws or they don't want to waste their time on weirdos from Europe? I know each case is different but I'm curious what's the general experience. Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6067 | 12/14/05 | Hey Graham. In writing a political spec script, is it wise to use real newspapers and news personalities, or should I make up fictional equivalents? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6055 | 12/4/05 | I know I have to aquire the rights to a book before I try and adapt it, but do I need to pay for this out of my own pocket and what types of options are available to aquire those rights? Also, what questions would I ask the "rights department" when I give them a call? Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6034 | 11/27/05 | Hello Mr.Flashner, I wrote my first screenplay,and everyone who reads it loves it. I am at a stand still, because I do not understand the concept of a submission script. I purchased the Hollywood Screen Writer software, But I feel I may have written a production script. I have no education in the field, I'm learining as I go. Thanks for any help you can give. Debra | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6024 | 11/21/05 | I have a story that needs to be put into a screen script, but i dont know who could do this because i don't know who to trust and who is the right person. The story is based true life and would be an interesting movie. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6018 | 11/19/05 | (1)After registering with WGA, should I put the registration # on screenplay (2) afraid someone will still copy the idea. is it a valid concern? (3) should I query agents or managers or producers or? (4) I have heard registeration can be done with WGA, protect rite, copy right office. Which is the best one. Lets say I get feedback from the agents or managers or producers to make some revisions. Should I re-register it? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6012 | 11/19/05 | (1) where_can_I_find_sample_query_letter (2) if_an_agent_says_yes, should_I_send_soft_copy_(written in final draft)_or_print_and_send_a_hard_copy If_its_hard_copy, is_there_a_particular_way_it_has_to_be_sent (binder, stapled, etc?) (3)Should_I_buy_Hollywood_Creative_Directory (HCD) now_or_wait_till_mid_Jan_when_the_new_edition_is_out? (4)Mass_querying_from_HCD_may_not_be_realistic/cheap. What_is_the_ best_way_to_shortlist_and_send_it_to a_handful_of_agents? Should_I_start_by_shortlisting_only_25_agents_or_should_I_go_for_a_bigger_number? (5) Any_do's_and_don'ts_with_respect_to_sending_out_query_letters. (6) should_I_put_a_self_stamped_envelope_or_a_self_stamped_postcard_with_the_query_letter? (7) I_have_basically_no_formal_education_in_this_industry. This_is_my_first_script. I_haven't_won_any contests, etc. How_do_I_introduce_and_sell_myself_in_the_query_letter? Am_I_at_a_disadvantage. (8) I_don't_live_in_CA. I'm_in_a_small_town_in_midwest. Only_my_wife_has_read_the_script_so_far. How_do I_get_some_more_professionals_to_read_this_and_give_me_some_advice. (9) Would_you_be_willing_to_review_my_script? (10) Any_other_candid_advice? Thanks Justin | Graham Flashner |
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| # 6003 | 11/16/05 | I am trying to develop a story for a re-make in which a production company is currently working on. What is it that they look for when you are ready to pitch your idea? Do they want a script, or an outline? Can you help me out? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5999 | 11/15/05 | I have the online list of agencies provided by WGAw. Do you feel it's better for a new writer to call each agency first and find out if they are accepting new scripts or simply send out query letters to each company and see what happens? I thought it was best to always get a name before submitting a letter to them? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5987 | 11/10/05 | I'm at the end of my tether. I feel that I have been beaten at this game before I have even tried it. The odds seem so stacked up against me, is it worth trying? How the hell do I start, how do I sell my first script? Noone is interested in a first time, unsold screenwriter, are they? And, on top of that, I want to direct too! Do I have a chance? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5985 | 11/10/05 | Follow-up to #5983. I want to be totally clear on this. Is it okay to leave out, in the case of denoting a scene that predates some or all the ones already shown, subtitles (superimpositions) over a black screen or actual footage? Just temporal denotations at the end of slug lines will suffice? Thanks again. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5983 | 11/10/05 | This has to do with the addition of a scene (or scenes) that take deviate from the normal linear flow of a story. These aren't flashbacks I'm referring to, however, but events that simply take place before the opening of the story and/or other points in the story already shown, like Tarantino does. How are they properly denoted in scripts? Maybe "EARLIER" can be at the end of the slug line? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5981 | 11/9/05 | I've heard people say that genre and budget don't matter in a spec script, as far as selling potential goes, that quality rules; but, is this true? Also, does it matter who I submit the material to, i.e. independents, production companies and studios? Thanks, Graham. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5959 | 11/5/05 | Before I start querying the agents, 1. what are the next steps? 2. I have heard wga, protect rite, copyright,etc. All three needs to be done? do I need to pay again for every revision I make to protect it? 3. How to get started? start mass querying the agents? Any site to get listing?s 4. Is it worth/necessary to send the script to some script doctor/evaluator? 5. Any other advice for a newbie thnx BOB | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5951 | 11/2/05 | is 110 pages (in final draft) the standard/recommended length of a comedy script? I have two scripts right now, one is 100 pages and the other is 105 pages. Should I fluff it up to 110 or is ok to leave it as is. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5939 | 10/30/05 | I won a lawsuit and have a very unusual story to tell regarding my life and circumstances. I would like to know exactly who to contact about selling my story. I am not in the movie business so please be clear. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5935 | 10/26/05 | Hi Graham, I saw that you did a staged reading in 2004 of "Nothing Guaranteed" at http://www.screenplayworkshops.com/index.html. Do you know if this group is still active? How was your experience? I am thinking of doing a staged reading of my horror/thriller and could use some advice. Thanks. Patrice | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5927 | 10/22/05 | There are several softwares (eg: final draft, movie magic, etc). a) which is a good one b) any reliable website to buy it at a discounted price? c) is it really required or can one use MS word. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5918 | 10/15/05 | Dear Graham, I am attending the Screenwriting Expo 4 on November 12 and would like some tips on pitching my script to agents and producers. Should I, for instance, bring copies of my script to the Expo? Jill Stevens | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5917 | 10/15/05 | Hi. Reading your previous question about the NZ man. I have a similar problem. I can afford to come out and live in Los Angeles, but then what? I dont know anybody, let alone producers. What is my next step when in Hollywood? Thanks for any help | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5889 | 9/10/05 | hi there Graham. I have just finished my first screenplay after two years . I wan't my first screenplay to be a true hollywood heart melt, I am 100% sure I've done it. The trouble is I live in New Zealand and do'nt have a bloody clue how to sell my story . should i get on a plane to hollywood and go door knocking. How much money is a good story worth? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5871 | 8/24/05 | Hello Mr Flashner. I have adapted a novel into a screenplay. I know that I cant show this to anyone, as I dont own the rights. I want to gain the rights from the author. Now, I have no representation, and I'm an unsold screenwriter. How do I go about obtaining the rights? I'm sure its hard to do, but is there any helpful advice that you can give me? Many thanks, TS | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5869 | 8/23/05 | Hi Graham I wrote a treatment, and found someone on the net who has now turned it into a screenplay. The job they have done is excellent. we have agreed a 50/50 share and credit (me story him screenplay) but nothing has been signed or anything. what steps do we take to protect ourselves, and who do we show it to. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5868 | 8/22/05 | How do I sell an idea? How much would a true-life drama be worth? and, if the drama is about yourself, are their any legal requirements necessary prior to selling your own story? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5867 | 8/20/05 | Graham, I've been working with a producer on a script that they want to develope. In some of the conversations he's tried to get me to tell him my political affiliation. Being a conservative Republican I've avoided the question because I don't want to be branded with the "brown shower" label. That if your a Republican you'll be blackballed from the industry. Should I tell him my conservative leanings? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5855 | 8/15/05 | Graham, I've been writing screenplays for about ten years now but had to resort to something I'm not proud of. I 've been writing porno's. My question is does the "golden shower" rule apply to writers as well as actors? That if you act in porno's you'll never get a ligitimate part in a film. My name in the porno movies isn't mine I'm credited as Henry Longfellow. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5841 | 8/7/05 | Hi Graham, Can you recommend some really good books that deal with the subject of subtext. Thank-You. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5840 | 8/6/05 | Mr. Flashner, While aware that 100% phonetic dialect is ill advised, i do however like to carefully “Season” with a few SPARSE instances ("Ya’ll" or "Aye") now and again when a character’s cultural background might be advantageous or even crucial to reinforce. MY QUESTION IS: Do you know of any resource (online or in print) with well written, common conversational words phonetically “converted” into various dialects? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5829 | 8/1/05 | Hi, Is it unprofessional to describe a character's race? Most screenplays don't. (ex: Enemy o.t. State, Training Day). Or should you leave this entirely to the (casting) director. Thx. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5815 | 7/27/05 | I am planning on writing a screenplay about the life of a dead screenwriter, but I have no idea if the rights are available and if they are, how to obtain them. Where would I begin? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5805 | 7/23/05 | Graham, I have a script with a producer and he's pitching it to a cable network for a TV movie next week. If they accept the pitch, he's going to option the script and develop it. My question is how much money does one get for an option of a TV movie? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5797 | 7/22/05 | Can you show me an example of how to place song lyrics into your dialogue? For example...you are singing to someone or to a crowd. May you present me with an example? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5789 | 7/22/05 | I've notice many screenwriters uses different formats, different ways of expressing their dialogue and grammar on scripts, and still get their spec script sold. Is it safe to say ... as long as your script has a great story and it's easy to read, it does not matter how it's formatted or your use of dialogue and grammar? Or...is it more about simply networking than anything? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5770 | 7/12/05 | A charactor in my script needs to go to a specific address he finds in a phone book. How do I write this? Do I make up an adress and make sure it's not real, or something else? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5756 | 7/1/05 | I know it's not good to mix metaphors but what about genres? I know most movies have a "sub-genre" or two or three... But I'm talking about a half-horror/half-drama. What I want to accomplish is a realistic and extremely plausible supernatural force that's interwoven into an otherwise normal world. If it's good do I stand a chance of getting it bought? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5747 | 6/27/05 | If you copyright your script or register it with the WGA or Protect Right etc., can you make changes to it? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5744 | 6/26/05 | On Final Draft 7.1, one of the scene headings is I/E. What does that mean? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5742 | 6/26/05 | I'm confused on where to use "CONTINUOUSE". I've read professional scripts where characers go into diferent scenes continually, but the writer doesn't use CUT TO: INT. LOCATION - CONTINUOUSE. They write NIGHT or something else. Could you help me out? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5738 | 6/21/05 | Hey Graham: How would I find a collaborator for a screenplay I have in mind to write? I live in NYC and want someone from the West Coast. I'm looking for someone mainly to brainstorm with and do research. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5727 | 6/14/05 | Will a studio in Hollywood buy a spec script from a foreign national? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5714 | 6/9/05 | I am confused and I need your advise. I am currently writing a screenplay that I am passionate about with African-America characters. But then I'll sit back and think about writing a commerically driven, appealing to all-audience screenplay just to get in the door, because I don't believe Hollywood will take the one that I'm passionate about seriously because of the theme. Please help me out here? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5698 | 6/8/05 | What are the odds of a successful career as a screenwriter if you have sold just an okay spec script? The type of script that studios are not in a bidding war for? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5693 | 6/6/05 | I was wondering if I have to get the rights of a band's name or their song if I just mention either in my script. Say that one of the characters brings up AC/DC in the dialogue. Do I have to get the rights to just mention AC/DC in my script or if the character mentions a song that AC/DC has made? Thanks. - Shelly | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5692 | 6/6/05 | With her permission, I mailed a screenplay of mine to a producer at the end of April and followed up, just under five weeks later, with a voice message last week. If I don't hear from her beforehand, when would it be appropriate to make another contact attempt (and also, are there general times of the day when it's best to attempt to get in touch with a producer - early morning, late morning, etc.)? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5691 | 6/6/05 | I have found a partner to turn my treatment into a screenplay. we have agreed on rights, credit, time and other issues via email. But am unsure what steps to take incase the parnership goes wrong. Is our agreement via email enough or should we take other steps to protect ourselves. If so what do you suggest? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5688 | 6/3/05 | Hello Graham. My question is: I have adapted a popular novel. I do not have the rights to it, and have not previously sold my work. What process do I go through to get my adaptation to the writer? Will it get read, or thrown in the bin? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5680 | 5/30/05 | What is a short script? And how long should a short script be? And is there a marketplace for it? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5668 | 5/30/05 | Can a screenwriter find work outside of Los Angeles? Example....Somewhere like Atlanta? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5655 | 5/20/05 | If I want two characters to talk without moving their mouths (Like mently) would I write V.O, or something else? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5650 | 5/15/05 | How much money does the average spec screenplay make? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5645 | 5/12/05 | Hey Graham, Is it acceptable to break up long speeches in a screenplay into 4-6 line paragraphs just as in regular prose? Seems to me it would make the script more readable. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5638 | 5/8/05 | Where do you start when you have a lifestory that you think would most definitely sell great as a movie but you want it to be profitable for both parties, I am not a writer nor a producer but I know that writers are constantly looking for ideas to write about that would sell. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5635 | 5/7/05 | 1) I want to write a screenplay on a specific episode of an old TV show. That is I only want to take that concept, new characters, new situations will be created by me. 2) I have an issue and have been collecting articles from newspapers on that issue. I want to write a screenplay on this. Do I need rights for both occasions? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5633 | 5/4/05 | Graham, Janette Anderson and Michael White were sponsored by our workshop for a visit at great expense to us. After months of not hearing anything on the complete manuscripts submitted, a member contacted her and was informed Michael White is no longer with her. Is she still in business, and how can we find Mr. White to request the return of our manuscripts? Thanks, Troy D. Young | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5612 | 4/19/05 | I am a moviebuff with a screenplay question. Of the estimated 50,000 screenplays written each year in the United States, how many are exclusively for Hollywood? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5608 | 4/14/05 | How much description do you write for the actors without doing their jobs? Do you give them some idea of how to act and leave their talent for the screen? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5595 | 4/8/05 | When writing a horror short how would you suggest finding a different or interesting direction to take in avoiding the same tired and worn-thin conventions when all the elements of your idea so easily lend themselves to them? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5585 | 4/5/05 | DO YOU REALLY SEE ANY MONEY if you sell spec screenplays? (after the cuts of agents, lawyers). I intend to sell screenplays so that I can raise money to direct a low-budget. I have scored excellent in premise in my coverage reports, will remain so in my directed movie. will I be able to sell my directed movie by luring distributors on the basis of premise and elements. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5577 | 4/3/05 | Mr. Flashner, I have a couple of questions pertaining to the use of a foreign language in dialogue: 1a.) I have a short scene where two characters speak in French. Do I need to put "in French" as the personal direction each time the characters speak, or is there another alternative? 1b.) How and where should I put the translation/subtitle? 2.) What is your sentiment on the minimized use of foreign language in dialogue? Many thanks, Catharine | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5574 | 4/2/05 | Hey Graham: Recently I came across a literary manager who accepts story ideas. It's awfully tempting to try and get support for a complex idea that would take months to flesh out as a completed screenplay. It also sounds risky. Is there any protection for story ideas? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5560 | 3/30/05 | Dear Graham, I recently finished my first screenplay and applied to both the Nicholls Fellowship and the Sundance Fearture Film Lab. I thought the $50 combined entry fees were money well spent networking. Do you agree? I would appreciate any advice or direction you might offer. Thank you for your very valuable time. Sincerely, Valerie A. Ferrante | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5553 | 3/29/05 | pls am a nigeria with a story deal with platinum studios but am having plight with editor over story development pls advice what step to take in treament. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5543 | 3/23/05 | I asked a question last week about purchase price for the rights to literary works. I am still trying to figure out/find out where I can get information on the amount of money I should offer to pay (purchase price) the author for the rights once I secure financing for the project. Can you please provide me with some more advice or tell me where to get information on purchase price for literary works? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5541 | 3/22/05 | Hey Graham: In querying production companies, agents and literary managers, is snail mail preferable to email if they post an email address? And if you send a physical letter, is an SASE needed? Is anyone still writing return letters or is it all email these days? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5535 | 3/18/05 | I'm teaching entry level writing class at Oglala Lakota College in South Dakota. Students are mostly poor performers so to get them jazzed we started a screenplay called "As the Rez Turns". It's turning into a powerful and spiritual drama--plus unique twist of native written. How would I approach an agent with their treatment? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5529 | 3/17/05 | I am in the process of optioning a literary work (novel). I am trying to find out what the industry going rate (purchase price) is for a novel that was published twenty years ago and out of print. Please provide me with any info you can. Thank you so much! This is such a valuable service for young screenwriters. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5509 | 3/9/05 | #5504 follow up: What if I want to build drama between what happens onscreen and offscreen. I just don't know how to cut back and forth. Because the characters are intenly watching what's onscreen. And sluglines slow the whole process down. Can you use the words offscreen for the room and then describe it? TNX | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5504 | 3/7/05 | Example: Ted and his pals play a game while watching a homemovie. Format-wise, what is the most professional way to create this scene if you want to show both what is happening in the living room and on TV. Intercut? What if you show what a computer screen is displaying? action line - The computer screen displays a window popping up. In the matrix it is done like- On screen: "Trace program: running." Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5486 | 2/28/05 | I sent a screeplay at an agent's request back in July and never heard from her. She is a WGA signatory, Janette Anderson. Now it's Feb. and her website says she's no longer requesting submissions. Should I give up and try someone else? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5481 | 2/24/05 | I have a screenplay that would be a great movie of the week. Please tell me who I might contact. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5476 | 2/22/05 | Hey Graham. When is it a good idea to use a narrator in your story? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5472 | 2/20/05 | Apologies Graham. I didn't want you to write the scene. I should have asked, do I have a black screen with the sound of radio show then FADE IN or FADE IN to black screen with DJ speaking then the man sitting on the bench reading the paper? Thanks. Craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5470 | 2/20/05 | I'm unsure of how to write my opening scene. The scene opens with a man sitting on a bench at a bus stop reading a tabloid style paper. From the moment the movie begins we hear the voice of a talk radio DJ. Once the first caller begins to speak his voice fades out and the sounds of a busy urban street fades in. Many thanks in advance. Craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5465 | 2/18/05 | Format-wise, how would one insert "pop-up" comments in a screenplay ala BLIND DATE, where cartoonish icon characters interject light-hearted commentary? and how would you introduce descriptions for those cartoon figures? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5451 | 2/9/05 | Hey, Graham: What is the journey of a spec script straight-to-DVD? What would a feature length script be worth going that route? Percentage of budget? What awards structure is there in DVD world? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5436 | 2/1/05 | I'm writing a Fantasy SP with an unraveling mystery plot. The main character's a teenager overcoming his deepest fear. Could you suggest any produced SP's to look at with a similiar tone? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5434 | 2/1/05 | I'm confused with character names in descriptions. Do I need to capitalize them when the character is first introduced, first introduced into a scene, or always? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5421 | 1/28/05 | Mr. Flashner. Do you think it's harder selling a horror spec than a, let's say, a drama spec? Thanks Lars | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5416 | 1/28/05 | Mr.Flashner. Which writing style do you think is more popular with producers and readers, the style where you put in a lot of emotions and descriptionsor the style where you try to leave as much white as possible? Thank you. Lars | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5407 | 1/25/05 | Hello, Graham. I have a fantastic screenplay, but I'm afraid agents will turn it down because it's a big budget movie. What can I put into the query to convince them that my screenplay is worth their time? Thanks - Shelly | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5406 | 1/24/05 | Hello Graham: There used to be a source directory (not Hollywood Creative Directory) that had screenwriters, agents, directors and production companies in it. Printed on glossy paper annually. Can't find it listed anywhere. What was it and is it still printed? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5396 | 1/21/05 | This is probably a silly question, but I have to ask anyway. I'm having business cards made. I usually put my name, email address, home and cell number. Do I need to have screenwriter on there? Will they remember why they have my card if I don't? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5393 | 1/21/05 | I am in a state of panic. I have 4 outlines with me. I will be turning them into screenplays in the next four months BUT I just dunno which one to go with first as all of'em are interesting. what do I do? how do I handle such a situation? I have written 11 screenplays so far but never been in this situation before. Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5391 | 1/21/05 | Is there a possibility of selling a good screenplay on the basis of an excellent premise in the speculative market for a new comer? that is, selling the premise only. Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5375 | 1/16/05 | Is it ok if you don't have script pages numbered? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5358 | 1/9/05 | Dear Graham, I am a writer/director coming to LA on business with producers re scripts of mine and was wondering what is the best way of setting up more meetings with the right people to see more of my scripts? I have a couple of meetings already set up but the more the better. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5347 | 1/6/05 | Hi Graham, I was wondering if you need any legal rights or anything to write a script about a true story. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5335 | 1/5/05 | I realize that many of the films I'm inspired by (Lost in Trans., Amelie, Bottlerocket) are both written and directed by the same person. I'm sure this ensures their "quirky" vision is seen through regardless of whether it is explicit in the script or not. How does a writer who has no hope of directing make sure their own offbeat 'look & feel' comes across in the writing and subsequently, the screen? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5331 | 1/4/05 | My question is about plot twists in general, and the lack of them specifically. In my script I don't have any twist such as in the end of Sixth Sense, but each time the protagonist attempts to foil the antagonist, he fails, and these failures drive both the character development, and the story. Will that suffice, or do I need to have a jaw dropping twist in order to sell? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5330 | 1/3/05 | Hello, Graham. Is it a good idea to include the synopsis and character breakdown with the spec script when I send it out? Or do most agents and producers expect to see the script only? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5314 | 12/22/04 | Dear Mr. Graham, Just to follow up on my previous email, (re: getting a pass), I should have maybe clarified. The reader liked my material, and by pass, I mean he/she moved me up the chain of command to the Director of Development who now has to evaluate my script before taking it to the Board for a decision. Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5311 | 12/21/04 | I'm having title problems. For the first several months I left it unnamed, but seeing my document called "untitled1" got annoying so I just used the name of a song with a similar theme to identify it on my computer. Now it's kind of grown on me. The song title isn't super original, but would I need to get the rights from artist even if there are no direct references to the song/artist? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5310 | 12/20/04 | Hi Graham, I got word I got a pass on my screenplay from a reader at a Major Production Company, they then told me that it's being forwarded on to the VP of Development for his evaluation. I guess this is good news. How many hands does my material have to pass through before I can expect a decision as to option or purchase? Thank-you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5297 | 12/13/04 | Mr. Flashner, I am your fan (Joan was WONDERFUL). I'll ask straight, what are the chances of having someone so great as you, producing someone new as me? I have 5 scripts done w/coverage and recomended. But can't even get an agent, even when I already have a request for my scripts from a Production Co. What's the hardest part in this business? www.geocities.com/dhyana10 Thanks & Congrats on your work! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5291 | 12/10/04 | Hi Graham, Just finished my first novel and will begin sending it out to first readers for their opinion soon as well as agents/publishers. In your opinion, is registering the copyright on the novel at this juncture the smart thing to do (I know that registering a work is optional and by doing so you get to tack on punies in a law suit). Would you recommend it or not and why? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5277 | 12/2/04 | Hi Graham, I was just reviewing some of the past questions and saw that you gave a seminar on Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Writing Your First Script. I am interested in this, do you have something published or your own website that I can check out? I have hundreds of ideas to turn into screenplays, although I'm still struggling with finishing one, I continue to read books or info on screenwriting. Thx | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5272 | 11/30/04 | Hi, I have been contacted by a production/management company called Celebrity Endeavors. They asked for my work via E-Mail, and have just contacted me to say that the script has potential. They have said that the script needs a coverage report to show me where I need to concentrate on, and that they will recommend someone. Have you ever heard of Celebrity Endeavors? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5268 | 11/28/04 | Dear Mr. Flashner, Do any of the studios put out a pre-production listing or directory of films, that they make available to the public? Where would I be able to get my hands on this information. Thank-You | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5267 | 11/28/04 | Dear Mr. Flashner, Is there any magic formula for determining the budget for my screenplay? Thank-You | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5263 | 11/27/04 | I'm a military reporter who was embedded with a U.S.M.C. Medical Battalion during the beginning of OIF. I was also embedded with an Army Civil Affairs Unit in OEF in 2002. I am currently working on a screenplay amd I have two ideas for TV pilots. Can you offer any specific suggestions as to where I can send loglines, treatments, etc.? I expect my first child soon. His birth will limit my ability to travel. Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5258 | 11/25/04 | Mr. Flashner. I am aware of the rules saying that I can not describe any kind of camera-work etc.. But, the camera-work might be very important in some scenes. Let's say there's a room. It's all silent. No dialougue or anything. In this scene the camera is suppose to sweep through the room from object to object. The objects are important to the story. How can I describe this scene without describing the camera moving? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5254 | 11/19/04 | Hello Mr. Flashner. In response to Q #5244, I ask this. If I have never sold anything, why would they sell me the rights? Is there no way of me sending them my drafts or anything? Seems like an impossibly annoying catch 22. HELP! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5252 | 11/18/04 | hi Graham.i am living far way in india and i am into writing scripts.Graham i have finished two scripts but both are in a theatrical form and i wish to change it into a screen play.how do i go about doing that because i dont have a clue as to how to change that and more so i have never been to the states therefore i dont know anybody there.best regards to you | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5249 | 11/17/04 | I sent my published book to a major talent agency. They quickly called and sent submission release forms. The agent asked if I had a screenplay. I said no but would write one. He said he would send my book back if I did. I said I want a movie made from my book. He said ok-send the signed forms which they accepted. What happens next? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5244 | 11/16/04 | Hello Mr. Flashner. I was wondering, I would like to adapt a novel. I have never sold anything, but I feel if the author read my screenplay, he would sell me the rights. I would like to also direct the film. How do I go about this? Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5242 | 11/15/04 | Dear Graham, Thanks for the reply (re: opening scene with newspaper heading and broken window of medical office). The thing I'm still unsure about is using 'PULLING BACK'. Is that viewed as a camera direction or merely a suggestion? Thanks again. Craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5241 | 11/14/04 | Hi Graham, Thanks for your answer, (re: comic book character), just to follow-up should I have my entertainment lawyer approach the Comic Book Publisher or would I do this? Who would I make initial contact with? Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5240 | 11/14/04 | Dear Graham, I'm unsure of how to write my opening scene. What I want to achieve is a close up shot of a newspaper headline, pulling back to show the newspaper box outside a medical office that has had a brick thrown through the front window, then moving up the street stopping in front of a butcher shop. How do I write this without giving camera directions? Many thanks. Craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5238 | 11/13/04 | Hi Graham, I have a concept for a screenplay that would involve bringing a comic book character to the screen similar to what we've seen in the past with the Superman Movies, Spiderman, Bat Man etc. What would be the 1st approach to take in this respect, do I have to secure the story rights to the comic book character from the Company before I start developing my story. Thank-you for your help. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5236 | 11/13/04 | I'm a young screenwriter (20). I live in Minnesota. I am planing on getting a degree in screenwriting, but Minnesota only has two schools that offer them. Metropolitan State U, and Minneapolis Community and Tech College. I was wondering if you knew anything about either program.I heard UCLA is the place go, but I don't want to go to school in Cali if I don't have to Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5235 | 11/12/04 | I have a scene where a girl finds a journal that belongs to another character. When she reads it I want it to be the character who wrote its voice not hers. How would I do this? Also, what is the proper format for putting the journals entry's in the screenplay? I hope I've been clear enough. Thanks for your help! - Eric | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5222 | 10/29/04 | Hello. My name is Jennifer. In my opinion, and in most, I am an excellent writer. But I am younger than most. Very young. I was wondering if there was a certain age to turning in a screenplay to a company or even getting an agent to work with you? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5218 | 10/29/04 | Dear Mr. Flashner. I was wondering how detailed you're allowed to be when writing a screenplay? Does studios accept at all if you describe the camera-work? Can I describe the score? For exaple as- Suspencefull orchesta score? Not just about the score and the camera. How detailed are you allowed to be as a writer? Also, if describing the camera, I use "Dolby", right? Thanks for your help. Regards Lars | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5211 | 10/25/04 | Sir, please explain, what is a high-concept? give examples of hit films with high-concept. Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5206 | 10/21/04 | Mr. Flashner, Should I send scripts with my query or wait until I've had a reply? Also, what form will that reply be--letter if I include SASE or, if I include my email or phone number, would agents CALL ME with a reply? Should I be calling them to follow-up? Thanks. Jill | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5205 | 10/21/04 | Hello Graham, I am writing a screenplay that takes place in ancient times. I am having a problem with my building descriptions. I guess my problem is what to focus on without getting too wordy. Is it a good idea if I compare them to existing ruins that are comparable? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5204 | 10/21/04 | Hi, i live in Africa, a friend of mine in film school told me some synopsis that i wrote are really good, i would lke to know how i can break into writing scripts for hollywood. thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5199 | 10/20/04 | Dear Mr. Flashner I have two movie scenarios which I would like to represent. I believe one will be a very good romatic picture and one will be a successful horror movie. I will be delighted if you could help me finding the way that I could represent these two scenarios in order to sell. Thank you in advance for your kind attention. Kind Regards, Ramin | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5190 | 10/15/04 | Sir, my question is regarding a full treatment for a movie based on my novel. I was planning to take courses in writing screenplays. However, due to failing eyesight I realize I cannot continue with this plan. How would I approach a Producer when I do not have a script, just the treament (which is probably too long) and my novel? Thanks so much, JB | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5188 | 10/14/04 | Hi Graham, I have found a writer that I want to hire to write a story for me, that is based on my personal experiences with some fiction added in. We have decided to first write a one-page, five-page and 20-age treatment. What are standard costs for something like this? Thanks for all of our help, Alli | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5169 | 10/8/04 | Does any entertainment lawyer sell screenplays on behalf their clients solely? Or that's really an agent job to that? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5166 | 10/7/04 | I have given my script to a hollywood producer to read and provide me with some feedback. How long should it take before I hear back from him? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5161 | 10/6/04 | Hi Graham, What's the standard format for a short film in terms of pages, is 48 pages too long? Thanks Dan | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5158 | 10/5/04 | Hi Graham, Are there any seminars, workshops, books, on developing a reality series concept? How does one sell a reality series concept, primarily through a pitch? Is there a script for shows like Big Brother, Amazing Race, The Apprentice, The Bachelor etc....? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5150 | 10/5/04 | How long should you wait before following up on a query letter that you'd sent to an agent or manager? And if a month has gone by and they have not responded to your query, doesn't it mean that they weren't interested, or have not got around to it? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5145 | 10/2/04 | Hi Graham, I am new to the business, and I've had a couple of producers ask for my material, I signed their release and sent it to them. It's been over a month and I've not heard back from them. How long do I give them to evaluate it 4 weeks, 8 weeks? Do I make contact with them, or should I just sit back and wait for them to call? Thanks Dan | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5135 | 10/1/04 | I just moved to Los Angeles a couple of weeks ago, but I'm living in hotels at the present. So how can I query an agent or manager without a physical address for them to respond to. Can I provide them my cellphone number as a SASE? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5129 | 9/30/04 | Dear Grahm, My wife and I have published a thriller and everyone who has read it say's it would make a great movie. How do we go about trying to find someone who may be interested in turning it into one? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5123 | 9/29/04 | Hi! Do you think it's wise to write a spec script that will offend some sterotypical roles in Hollywood, and the powers that be, even though you feel so passionate about this story. Will an agent or manager be eager to accept that screenplay? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5115 | 9/29/04 | I have the 26th edition of the Hollywood Creative Directory. Can I still use that version to make contacts? Or does Hollywood changes so often that i need to pick up the 27th edition? I would like to know. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5107 | 9/26/04 | Yet another question. :) I am writing a screenplay based on true events which took place in WWI. My primary and secondary protag and antag are fictional, but I also reference a few historical figures. I’m basing my research from 2 nonfiction historical books. My partner and I are worried that this may constitute an ‘adaptation’ and may require rights. Is it even possible to adapt a nonfiction book or should I worry about that? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5091 | 9/23/04 | How helpful is a manager to a screenwriter who is trying to sell their first script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5082 | 9/23/04 | How valuable are entertainment attorney's to an unknown screenwriter as oppose to having an agent? And can most people afford an entertainment attorney? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5077 | 9/23/04 | Hello there, How are ya? I'm a screenwriter based in Sweden, sadly enough. This makes it hard to establish any kind of connection with agents or/and producers in the U.S for me. Do you know how to get in contact with agents and producers via e-mail? Please, don't use the WGA argument. Thank you. Lars | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5071 | 9/17/04 | Hello. I have a producer interested in my spec script. He has two directors interested and is getting financing presently (he has given me the budget however). I have no representation yet, but will get it when the contract comes. My question is, based on a budget range of $800K - $1.5M what should I expect as a base pay? Not counting rewrites. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5065 | 9/15/04 | Hi, I recently wrote two screenplays, one for kids and the other for adults, but it's pretty short, only 30 minutes I would say. Should I keep it as a short film and if so how would I query agents about my short film. Or should I make it longer...and how would I bring it out of it's shell? Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5062 | 9/15/04 | Sir, I completed a script a fortnight ago. I was going to send it to a few readers for coverage and review. now I see a movie being made with the same plot called "Birth", *ing nicole kidman. I don't know what next. should I shelve it or still go ahead and submit it to production companies? warm regards, Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5052 | 9/13/04 | I have some story ideas that i don't have the desire to write into a screenplay format and I want to write it into a treatment. But what is a treatment? And how you write one and how many pages should a treatment be? And who would accept a treatment? And most importantly, can you actually sell a treatment? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5043 | 9/13/04 | Is this Screenwriting Expo 3 worth traveling 2500 miles for? Because I have been told by a cretain producer that it's nothing more than like a job fair. Or will it be better just to mail out some brilliant queries and get notice that way? I have already paid for my reserve, but I want some clarity on this matter so I can avoid wasting any more of my money. Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5037 | 9/10/04 | I have alot of screenplay ideas, most of which fall into the high concept category, however I have no desire to write most of them but I want to sell the story ideas. How can I do this? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5027 | 9/6/04 | Hello! Could you please refer me to a book or website where I could see a sample of what a "Letter of Intent" or some sort of letter I could write to a possible invester, explaining my intentions. I know this would vary with each person's intention, but I need some sort of sample. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5023 | 9/5/04 | Thank you for answering my previous question (the WWI infantry). However, the more I research and learn about these people the more I realize that I can not tell this story without telling /their/ story - at least, not justly. I am still trying to decide whether or not my main protagonist will be fictional or not. I am considering contacting the surviving families. What rights would you suggest I secure, if any? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 5009 | 9/3/04 | Hi! I have both the Hollywood Creative Directory 51st and 27th edition and ready to make some contacts. But I want to know....who would give me at least a better chance in the door? The Writers and Managers directory? Or the Production and Studio directory? I would like to know this before I start making contacts. Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4989 | 8/27/04 | I have become very interested in the story of a specific Infantry in WW1. My question is since this story will include real people, mostly deceased (some possibly still alive) but both the main protagonist and the main antagonist will be fictional. Do I need to secure rights and permissions to write this story? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4976 | 8/22/04 | i`m a first time writer with no agent or credits. Besides the screenplay that i have completed and the dozen or so ideas that i have. I have found an old film that i think would be a great subject for a remake. My question is this:what steps should i take to write it? or am i better off writing my original material? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4975 | 8/21/04 | Dear Graham, I’m looking for a TV staff job or freelance assignments (primetime dramas). I’ve written two spec samples, and have nonfiction publication credits. When I query production companies: What should my initial query package contain—just a letter, or resume, synopses, etc.? In the query letter itself, should the 1-paragraph summaries of my specs be ‘teases’ (describing the story but hiding the specific outcome), or ‘tell-alls’? Similarly, should my 1-page synopses be teases or tell-alls? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4969 | 8/21/04 | I always copyright my scripts with the Copyright office, but most scriptwriters do so through WGA. Which one should I use (that you recommend) or should I use both? Should I switch to WGA? Thanks for the help. - Shelly | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4962 | 8/21/04 | Hello! I have been querying agents, manangers, production companies for almost a year now with my several screenplays that i have written, and with everyone i have been rejected or no reponse back. I beleive i have some great concepts, but i'm not getting nowhere. I even thought about trying to write what's selling. Sometimes i get a little discourage, but i love writing screenplays! I don't know what to do. Can you help me? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4939 | 8/18/04 | If you have no connections. Is it easier to break in the industry as an actor, than it is being a screenwriter? I was told by someone that it'll be much easier to sell your screenplays if you are a working actor, because you'll have some sort of connection with someone in hollywood, than a person off the street just trying to sell a screenplay, is this true? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4931 | 8/18/04 | What is a story analysis? I was told by a certain producer/manager that a story analysis will take a look at my script and to see if it's marketable for $150.00. Should i be concerned? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4918 | 8/13/04 | I've been writing thrillers with my friend, nut now we decided to write a comedy. The plot doesn't come into the script until almost 40 pages. Is this okay? Thanks, Jackson | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4915 | 8/12/04 | Hi Graham I have recently completed a story from an idea I have had for years. The story is indepth and is currently written in a similar style to a screenplay. However, I don´t seem to be able to get the dialogue to sound as good as I want, I don´t think I can give it the credit it deserves. I was considering offering it, in it´s current state has a Treatment. What would you suggest. Thanks Mike | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4908 | 8/12/04 | Is it harder to sell a screenplay versus selling a novel? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4904 | 8/12/04 | I-saw-ur-re-on-that-life-story-query,I'm in quite a same situation with the addition that I am writing-a-script on a book based on the real-life stories of the author.She-offered-me-theRrights-4free. Do you mean I am entititled to get all the money of the script sale and she-(the author)-shouldn't get money from the script sale, but the company going into the production with the script will pay her 4-her-life-rights? Is it how it happens in Hollywood in most of the same-cases? I-have-signed-agreement-with-her-for-the-50-50-share-from-the-script-sale.PLEASE-NOTE-Minus-signs-let-me-sendMy-Query-in75words. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4901 | 8/11/04 | I am negotiating a life-story option. I thought something basic like one year to write and market a spec script at no cost, with a year extension if there's interest would suffice. Her attorney has sent a revised, significantly more complex, draft covering permissions, ownership, 50-50 split of proceeds, etc. Do you know where I might find a standard agreement? Or do I need a lawyer this early in the game? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4899 | 8/10/04 | Half industry says readers skip the bunch of action lines and read only the pages contain dialogue. The remain of the industry says readers like to read the scripts which are quite economic on dialogue. What's the truth? Should we write less dialogue and SHOW more (in action lines) or dialogue more and less action lines? Further, how can we go in any scene as late as possible and come out as soon as possible? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4894 | 8/6/04 | A producer requested to read my script a couple of weeks ago and replied yesterday saying "He had fun reading the script" and "Enjoyed the variety of characters" but he's wanting a script where the characters get involved with major issues. He said I shouldn't change my script on his account because he feels my script would be great for an ensemble. How should I reply to this? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4890 | 8/5/04 | I've sent in many different screenplays to different agencies. All have said that my work is excellent, but that "it's not what they are looking for". If my work's so good, why did they turn it down? I wonder if it could be that I am a woman and 19. How can I get people to notice my writing even though it might not be something they're looking for? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4887 | 8/4/04 | What is the font size of an average screenplay? Since I started writing screenplays, I have always used 12-pt font. But after reading many other screenplays by different authors, I noticed that many of them used 10-pt font. So what should I use? Thanks for taking the time to answer my question. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4885 | 8/2/04 | I have a synopsis for a script, and intend to begin work on the screenplay shortly. Although I'm an experienced writer, I've never written a script. I fear my naivete regarding 'the industry' will be a real disadvantage. My question is how (and when) do I find the right agent? Should I start shopping after the screenplay is finished, or send out the synopsis before writing the script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4874 | 7/29/04 | In all honesty. Does your screenplay has to be formatted to the industry standards in order for an agent or studio exec accepts or buys it? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4865 | 7/29/04 | Do it absolutley matter in Hollywood if the structure of the script is not "The Standard", but as long as the agent or studio executive can read it clearly, understand it, but more importantly, have a great story/plot, does it really matter about the "The Standard"? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4856 | 7/29/04 | Why are there so many screenplay consultants charging ridiculous prices, without a guarantee that you will sell your script. I can take that money and fly to Los Angeles on a round-trip for those prices! Are they scams? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4851 | 7/28/04 | what is the difference between sci-fi and thriller? for a long time I was under the impression that the 6th sense is a sci-fi but lately I've found that it is actually a thriller. Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4841 | 7/27/04 | Is it true that some spec screenplays that are sold are not well written at all? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4830 | 7/25/04 | Why are there so many spec scripts or pitches being sold with such ridiculous log lines, but when you query your story idea to an agent or production company that you know your script is absolutely better, they in turn tells you that they are not interested. Is this what they call the Hollywood catch 22 that they talk about? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4818 | 7/24/04 | What is a treatment? Can you sell a treatment rather than the script itself being a first time writer? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4811 | 7/24/04 | Why is it so hard for aspiring African-American or any minority screenwriters to get many of their scripts sold? And why are there a shortage of spec urban dramas being sold and told by minorities? If I am wrong, please with all honesty, correct me please? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4802 | 7/24/04 | Is it easier to query a production company or studio, than to query an agent in efforts to get your screenplay sold? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4781 | 7/23/04 | Can a first time writer with an agent sell a pitch before he even sells his first spec script? And my second question is...How helpful are these screenplay contests? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4754 | 7/13/04 | What would be an appropriate amount of time to follow up on a screenplay sent to a producer via a referral? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4752 | 7/13/04 | Sluglines - When I write an establishing scene, am I required to put EST at the end of the slugline? Eg; EXT. ARCHAEOLOGY BUILDING - DAY - EST | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4748 | 7/11/04 | I have a screenplay I'm trying to get funding for. Have a producer, director, and budget/production plan. The producer just finished retyping the script and numbering the scenes. Does this indicate the producer feels funding will go through? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4744 | 7/8/04 | Hey I finished my screenplay. It is a drama during the Vietnam war. How do I choose which producers/agents/managers to send a query letter to? Is there a website that organizes this or is it just a shot in the dark? Thanks for your time. Alex | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4743 | 7/8/04 | In regards to #4742. Are the majority of Independent Producers successful in filmmaking? Do most independents get major producers/investors involved if they feel the script could be a huge success at the boxoffice? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4742 | 7/6/04 | Graham, An Independent Producer is looking for a low budget script to produce and requested to read mine. What's considered low budget? Would I be protected under the WGA by working w/an independent? I don't want to just sell my script...I want to have a role in the production as well and I my idea of low budget is under $10 mil. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4740 | 7/6/04 | I fisnished my screenplay. I am going to send query letters to some producers, execs, and agents. I was just wondering what information I should include in the letter and what is the most affective approach to writing a query(ie how long should the synopsis be)? Thanks for your time. Alex | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4738 | 7/5/04 | Graham: I'm writing a comedy script, but all the funny parts are stuck in my head, like when the hero gets a haircut and his head explodes. It doesn't "read" funny. When I think about the story, I bust out laughing. Am I a moron? I'm living in my car in Brentwood. Should I pitch my script to some studios and act it out? Do you know of any good free health clinics? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4735 | 7/3/04 | Reality check: I am a psychologist and published author. I've been working on a screenplay, but am concerned that, to be taken seriously, you should be a student screenwriter, a pro, or someone with a track record. Is this so. If not, please suggest the best first step to take: agent, query, treatment, or script. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4726 | 6/26/04 | Hi Graham. I have written a treatment for a sitcom. I am NOT looking to become a sitcom writer. Everyone I talk to tells me I have to be in LA for any kind of response. I just want to sell my idea, the treatment, not change careers. How do I get by this bias and do production companies just buy treatments. What should I expect for compensation? Thank you for your time | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4725 | 6/25/04 | Hey I asked youa question a couple of days ago but I forgot one thing. If I send a script in is there a chance it will get blacklisted? And what exactly does that mean? Thanks again for your time. Alex | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4719 | 6/22/04 | Sir, I have sent query letters to a production company, I got to know about them by reading a book of the chairman of the company. At a lot of places on the net & in the book they (& others)mentioned that they gave breaks to newcomers. I want to know how long should I wait for a reply of my query letter from a production company. I don't have an agent. Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4715 | 6/21/04 | Hey Graham I am 19 years old and just finished my first screenplay. I know nothing about the movie business. As an unsolicited writer what is the best avenue to take, in order to get my script out the door and read? If query letters are the best avenue how do they work. Thanks for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4710 | 6/17/04 | dear graham, i've written my debut script. a california-based production company previously advised they liked my script and only accept internal or from "known talent." however, if i provide $50,000. towards development, i will serve as technical advisor and co-producer. i provided the company with $50,000. currently, my work is in development. can you please, in the most simply form, explain to me the development/pre-production process from start to finish. thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4709 | 6/17/04 | Dear Graham, What should I write in my query letter? I wrote a screenplay so I can act in the movie. What are the possibilities to sell my script and star in it? Thank you in advance. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4708 | 6/16/04 | Hi, I was just wondering what you put in al CAPS. Thanks, Jackson | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4692 | 6/4/04 | Hi Graham, I not having much luck trying to sell my scripts on my own, so I'm thinking about trying to get an agent. I tried pitching to them before but I didn't get any answers. What is the best way to pitch to angencies? Thanks, Jackson | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4689 | 6/2/04 | I sent an e-mail to a producer asking if he recieved my script. I got a reply and he said,"I probably have it. I do charge a $100 fee to read/review/make a recommendation for it.". What does he mean? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4688 | 6/1/04 | What's the rule of thumb with writing accents? In the case of a British accent, for example, should you write the dialogue in Americanized English with "British accent" in parentheses or should you sound it out and write the accented dialogue phonetically? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4683 | 5/31/04 | I just finished my first screenplay. Is there anything I should look out for so I don't come across as new? Like I heard new writers use flashbacks to much or use CUT TO: in the wrong places. Also when is the right time to write beats? Do I even need to write them in? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4679 | 5/28/04 | Sorry to keep bothering you on my question, but what would I say to the producer in my e-mail? Incase you don't remember my question, look at question #'s 4676 and 4665. Thanks, Jackson | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4676 | 5/27/04 | Hi Graham! It's been about a month since I sent the producer my screenplay. You told me that I should call him on his cell, but I don't konw his number. Would an e-mail be ok? Thanks, Jackson | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4673 | 5/26/04 | Every1 says never tell urself as poor to Holly pros in query letters etc. I'll've 2 tell em when they'll ask me 2 visit LA 4 the meeting and ask 4 my script by post as I m indeed poor. I hardly can buy brads,mailers etc. I m confident my script is quite great that whoever'll read will like it. Plz don't discourage by saying "leave screenwriting". I m from a 3rdWorld country, India. Ur-suggestion-in-this-case? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4672 | 5/25/04 | A column I wrote for my collegiate newspaper gained national attention. A literary agent contacted me to write a book and a young screenwriter wants to option the rights to my column and "life experiences" for a year ($1000) with a purchase price of $25000 if a movie gets made. Is this a fair deal? Should I counter their offer? How will optioning my "life experiences" affect my writing a novel on the same subject? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4669 | 5/25/04 | When doing dream sequences, is it necessary to ALWAYS reveal it's a dream? Can a scene be revealed as a dream LATER ON in the script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4665 | 5/24/04 | How long does it usually take for a producer to reply to a screenplay. I sent one about a month ago and I haven't gotton an answer yet. Thanks, Jackson | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4660 | 5/22/04 | I recently sent a children's comedy to a direct to DVD producer. He liked the screenplay, but said he hadn't made any decisions yet and wanted to keep it. Is it appropriate for me to continue to market the screenplay? Is this producer giving me the kiss of death in a polite way? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4657 | 5/22/04 | What is backend money? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4650 | 5/19/04 | Three weeks ago, I passed along my screenplay to a well-known, mostly supporting actor whose work inspired me to write the screenplay and for whom I wrote a major role. Flattered (and having described the plot and the role to him), the actor (who owns a production company) asked for my e-mail address and said he was a slow reader, with four screenplays to read ahead of mine. What might be a reasonable response time? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4645 | 5/17/04 | What's the easiest way to show a flashback to an earlier scene in the script? Can you say, [john's eyes become plate glass and we see his FLASHBACK TO PAGE 6 where "insert direct quote from script from pg 6"]? And can you cite the script directly (i.e. action, dialogue, etc.), or should you rewrite what happened as a recap? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4638 | 5/12/04 | how seamless can scene transitions be? for example, can you say: [INT. CONFERENCE - DAY john, legs like bricks, rises to his feet... INT. BEDROOM - DAY ...and takes seat wearily on his bed, dead tired.] and if you connect scenes this way, do you have to explicitly restate john's name in the second scene, or can you just let if go unstated to keep the flow? thanx | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4635 | 5/11/04 | Hello: What exactly is a treatment,spec,pitch,and how does go about developing these from an idea!!! Thank you, Gibi | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4624 | 5/5/04 | My script received excellent coverage at CAA and is now in the hands of an A-list director. I have a producer, but no agent, and no agent from CAA has stepped forward to rep me. If the director passes on my script, I'll have nothing. Should I wait on the director's response, or try and use his "interest" as a way of getting representation elsewhere? Thank you so much. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4596 | 4/18/04 | In reference to question #4595 regarding Inktip.com - you said you are not famaliar with Inktip, yet you are on their list of Industry Members who supposedly access their website looking for new scripts. Why do they have you on their list if you don't use them? I'm asking because I've sent numeous query letters and am getting nowhere. I thought posting my screenplay might be helpful. Thanks for your help. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4595 | 4/17/04 | What do you think about screenwriters posting their script on Inktip.com? Is this a good route to go for a first time screenwriter? Is Inktip reputable? Your advice is appreciated. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4588 | 4/13/04 | If a reader finds a couple of spelling mistakes of grammer mistakes, will they turn it down insantly? Thanks, Jackson | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4580 | 4/5/04 | Hi Graham! Do you know how I can get a face-to-face meeting with studio buyers . . . to pitch my idea, without an agent? And also, how long is a pitch session? Do they tell you on the spot if they're interested? What should you take besides the script? And how can I set up more pitch meetings with other companies? thanks =) | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4574 | 4/1/04 | Hi Graham, I have two questions: 1)I like to use a double dash (--) to link concurrent action sequences. Example: "John spins around-- (new line) --a guns is in his face." Is this okay? 2)Which is better when describing action: "BAM! John fires his gun." OR simply, "John fires his gun." I've read not to use exclamation points, is this true? Thanks a lot. Tim. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4572 | 3/31/04 | A friend has written the music and lyrics which is now on CDs. There's a song I'd like to adapt into a screenplay. He said, "Sure, go ahead and give me what the law says is fair." What would that be? A set fee? A % of the writer's fee? Is there a set fee? What do you think is fair. There are a lot of details I want to use from his song. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4570 | 3/30/04 | Hey Graham, I sent a couple of letters to agencies asking if they are accepting material from un-produced writers, and now it's been a month and they havn't answerd back. What should I do? Jackson | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4566 | 3/27/04 | Dear Graham: I already have done that. In fact I tried to write about this in my previouse email to you, but this form doesn't support more than 75 words. So, please, I am waiting for your answer. Sorry for adopt instead of adapt. Thanks for correcting anyway. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4565 | 3/26/04 | Could you please tell me if I adopt, in fact I have adopted, a-true-stories book, how much of the book should be the part of the script? I mean is that I am just to get the basic idea of the book and write the story on my own or is it that I am to not only take the basic idea but also the entire stories and characters or it would be my choice. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4553 | 3/24/04 | Hi, Which of the following can at least get you in the door with your spec script: An agent, manager, or an attorney at law? Or does it really matter? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4540 | 3/16/04 | Hi Graham, Hope you're well. I have a friend who's life is full of funny circumstances. Great potential as a 1/2 hour sitcom (similar to Seinfeld). He has given me the go ahead to write about his real-life happenings. I have contracts made between us....but what happens with the other people that are automatically included in those particular circumstances. Do I also need the go-ahead from them..or do I just change the name and incident slightly? Thanks, Victoria | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4536 | 3/14/04 | Is it wise, possible to submit a logline, and a synopsis of a story to a production company, before actually writing the script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4534 | 3/14/04 | Hi, I'm doing a research project for my English class about careers. I decided to study screenwriting, and part of our assignment is to find out what schooling is needed to be, let's say, a "full-time screenwriter". I haven't been able to find anything out about this. Could you lend me a hand? Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4519 | 3/9/04 | Hi, I would like to comment on a subject that someone posted earlier regarding the "Pilot Season". I don't quite understand it, but is it directly related more toward actors and tv writers, than someone trying to sell a feature length screenplay? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4508 | 3/9/04 | I've been told that this is the pilot season, and because of that, no one are taking on new clients right now for representation. Is this true? Secondly, When does this pilot season ends? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4505 | 3/9/04 | Dear Graham, In writing a montage sequence moving between a few locations back and forth (ie: two people writing to each other with a V.O.) is it neccesary to write a slug line for every location change once those locations have been established in the beginning of the montage? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4493 | 3/5/04 | I’m a 19yr old screenwriter, and I just finished my first screenplay. But I don’t know how good it is. I need to know if there is anyone or a place that I can send it to, so that it can be read, so I can get some feed back from a person that knows what their talking about. P.s. I don't have much money | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4479 | 2/27/04 | In my screenplay, there is a scene where a charactor watches TV and I transcribed the dialogue from the comedian into the screenplay. I stated who the material belongs to. A similar thing happens later when a charactor listens to the radio and breaks down the lyrics of a song. Are there any copyright issues to be dealt with? And does this break any general rules in screenwriting competitions? Thank you | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4471 | 2/25/04 | One of my screenplays was sent to a production group who then passed it along to a professional reader. Their evaluation listed several problems, including "improper sound designations". Can you tell me what that means? Thank you for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4459 | 2/17/04 | I'm rather unsure about this particular aspect of screenwriting. When writing a hand to hand combat sequence how detailed should it be? I would figure that during the making of the movie that a choreographer will handle that detail anyways? If that is the case how much action should I write? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4455 | 2/16/04 | If a producer wants to option my short film script, then pay me a writer's fee when they start filming, could you please tell me about how much that writer's fee should be for a 15 to 20k budget? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4452 | 2/16/04 | This is an excerpt from ALIEN. Seems functional but is this bullet point-type slug style acceptable? INT. CORRIDOR TO BRIDGE Black, empty. INT. BRIDGE Vacant. Electrical hum. Lights flash. Moments of silence. INT. CORRIDOR TO HYPERSLEEP VAULT Lights come on. Vault door opens. 6 humans in coffins. Sleeping. Coffin hatches open. etc... | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4450 | 2/11/04 | Graham -- Between the Gersh Agency, Rabineau Wachter & Sanford, and Broder/Webb/Chervin/Silbermann, which agency do you think is the most reputable and/or powerful? Thank you so much. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4443 | 2/6/04 | Thank you for answering this question. How do you note if a person is speaking in a foreign language? Is the example below correct? Jose (In Spanish) How are you today? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4442 | 2/5/04 | Mr. Flashner, I realize that without reviewing actual content it may be impossible for you to definitively answer my question, but perhaps you can offer your opinion.. I'm on 25 pages at the end of my 1st act (Having established Antagonist, Protagonist, some Sub-Plot and the over all Set-Up), would you say I'm running long, short or okay as far as unfolding the story goes? BTW-The genre is Action/Adventure/Comedy. Thank You | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4441 | 2/5/04 | I have zero clue were to start. I have finished a novel and I also have two screenplays finished. I am only 23 and in college, so I don't know what the hell to do. Any advise would help me out. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4436 | 2/3/04 | Mr. Flashner, I have two questions please. 1. What are the Do's and Don'ts of a paraenthetical? (What belongs in one and what doesn't?) 2.If a character is speaking, but interupted and an action line must take place, how would one resume the character's dialog? (With "Cont." ?) Thank You | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4428 | 2/1/04 | How do you introduce a dream in a slug line and then when writing it in the direction, is it acceptable to say, "Jack dreams that he is in..." I appreciate your help. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4426 | 1/31/04 | My client has also written a book proposal, which includes her childhood, abusive, alcoholic and gambling father, her mother's denial, her many relationships with men, her Compulsive beviors etc. My question is how to I get this to a scriptwriter such as Susannah Grant? Rhonda Boudreaux | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4418 | 1/29/04 | I wrote a story that I am considering for book coverage with hollywoodlitsales... are there screenwriters looking for stories out there? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4408 | 1/26/04 | Graham, I have an idea for a screenplay that I’ve been expanding for a while. I wanted to write the story centred around a real actor, with him playing himself, as in Being John Malkovich. I don’t want this just to be a vehicle for that actor though. Is there any advice you could give me about doing this? Or is it something thats best avoided? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4396 | 1/21/04 | The Hollywood Reporter sponsors several pitch markets each year in L.A. What do you think about these pitch sessions? Could someone really benefit from one of these sessions? I found this information on the Hollywood Film Festival website. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4392 | 1/20/04 | Hello Graham. I have a script in mind but I have not put it on the paper. Someone recomended me an option of "Moon" or "Deal Braker" What is the difference and how do I find them. Is there a link? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4373 | 1/11/04 | I am contemplating writing a musical, for screen. I do have experience with screenplays, though I'm perplexed with the thought of a musical. I've noticed musicals have the screenplay, lyrics and music most of the time written by different people. Should I just worry about the screenplay first, put 'insert song here.' where it applies then find a songwriter to work with? and would it be worth it to get someone to compose a score? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4368 | 1/9/04 | Most of my screenplay is in proper format. But there are a few things I'm not sure about. Will a production company or angency except it if most of it is in fomrat? Thanks for your time, JACKSON! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4365 | 1/8/04 | Hello, Graham. I was wondering, what is the best way to depict a two person phone conversation in a screenplay? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4362 | 1/7/04 | Hello Graham, I have recently started writing T.V. pilots for a little practice. My question is this: "Is it wise to end a pilot episode as a cliffhanger, or should I bring the episode to a conclusion, or does it even matter at all?". | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4346 | 12/30/03 | Hi Graham, I love old movie classics (b&w)ie.Gaslight and Rear Window, Sorry, Wrong Number, etc.,. I was wondering, who, if anyone, has the right to remake any of these classics and how would one find out this information. Also, if I wanted to do a similar storyline but changed around characters, scenarios etc.,. would there still be a chance that I could get in trouble? Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4339 | 12/28/03 | Hello Graham and Happy Holidays. I would like to know if I need to register loglines and or treatments? Thanks, Victoria | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4327 | 12/19/03 | I have been able to secure a letter that states a recommend for my script and a referral for me from an editor of a press publisher because my script is also a manuscript that i have been querying to publishers, its the closest thing i can get to a referral and have been putting a copy in with queries to agents, will this letter work, i know the material needs to be good too. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4324 | 12/17/03 | Is it possible to only pitch an idea for a movie without writing the script, the idea would be specific and detailed and if possible any starting suggestions? thank you | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4316 | 12/10/03 | Similar to question # 3777 I would like to write a screenplay part fact - part fiction based on historical people and their still living relatives. For Example, if I wanted to make a futuristic movie based on JFK, JFK Jr. and some current living Kennedy family members. Would I need to get permission to use Ted Kennedy’s name etc as one of my characters in this future fictional state? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4315 | 12/10/03 | how does someone get into writing for television, like a staff writer for a sitcom or a show like Saturday Night Live? Is it his agent? And how much experience do they look for? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4306 | 12/6/03 | Hi Graham, I'll like to know what happens once my screenplay is recommended by HLS. Secondly what's the percentage of screenplay that was recommended by HTL sold by the writer? Thank you Charles Anene | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4304 | 12/6/03 | A popular film studio has acquired the rights to a comic I'm writing & I've been asked to write the screenplay. I've never dealt with Hollywood before & don't know where I should begin negotiations regarding payment. If they ask how much I want, I want to be fair, but don't want to be ripped off! What do studios pay for scripts based on property they already have the rights to? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4294 | 12/3/03 | Alright, here's the deal, I have four scripts that I'm going to begin trying to pitch to an agent here soon. Three are adaptations, and one is an original. If I want to pitch the adaptations, is that o.k., or do I have to take another route to get permission first? Your help is great, thank you. Andrew Joshu | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4281 | 11/27/03 | How should i set out my screenplay? Should dialogue be centred? What about descriptions of action or screen directions? Thanks for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4270 | 11/25/03 | Hi Graham, please would you recomend great books for writing treatments AND outlines. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4262 | 11/20/03 | What is the difference between a treatment and a synopsis - how much detail do you need to go into and what do you include in each? Also, what's a tagline? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4260 | 11/20/03 | I am a publisher and would like to know how to submit a book to a screenwriter for consideration. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4256 | 11/17/03 | 3 Questions: 1. Is the outside of the screenplay supposed to be CARD stock or COVER stock paper? 2. I'm planning to enter a few screenplay contests real soon and was wondering if you can submit to more than one at a time. 3. Do you know of any contests to stay away from or signs of a bad one? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4255 | 11/16/03 | How do you write a re-enactment in a factual show TV script where it is an out of focus shot, so that the viewer cannot see exactly what is happening, to get an anonymous aspect to the shot? I wrote: Out of focus shot of the woman and family members socializing. --Thanks in advance.-- | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4247 | 11/13/03 | What should I do first once I complete a script, get an agent or copyright my material? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4237 | 11/12/03 | Hello- How do I go about selling my script? What will it cost me to get an agent? Do I need an agent to sell my script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4230 | 11/10/03 | Hi Graham. I have written a spec of the TV show Angel. How many pages is standard for a TV script? I've heard differently from various sources. My script is 56 pages. Thanks for your time and help. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4213 | 11/7/03 | Hi. I wrote a screenplay a couple of months ago. Now i thought of an even better idea. I don't know what to do! Should i write the one the better idea? If i do that, then i'll be known in hollywood and they might accept my other one too. Could you please help me? Thanks for your time, JaCkSoN. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4210 | 11/6/03 | Please could you tell me what the correct format is for displaying a caption on the screen, for example, the name of a character, or a location? I want to use this to list certain details about a character when they are first introduced to the audience. Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4178 | 11/4/03 | Could you please post the formula for a log line, and synopsis? I thought I had it right, but via internet and friends, I'm told I'm not doing it right. Any help appreciated. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4173 | 11/3/03 | I am trying to secure the rights to a novel so i can write the screenplay. Is there standardized agreements screen rights? Is there anything i should be aware or look out for? Thank you in advance for your help. Bill | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4170 | 11/1/03 | Re 4157: Thanks for your invaluable advice. A "clock" would've, indeed, been deadly. In fact, the last exchange between agent & attorney began with the agent's saying he understood if we "have to look elsewhere." My attorney emphasized how much we really want "X," and the agent came back saying--"Okay. Give me just a little more time to get you an answer." Is there any real hope left? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4166 | 10/31/03 | is it common to send your script to more than one production company if requested? Like simultaneous submissions, I have 2 companies that want to see my script, does the first one that contracted me have any special privilages like fisrt offer? I don't want to alienate anyone | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4161 | 10/30/03 | Coverage services offer a rating/box score between 1-10,usually in several categories such as "character," "pacing" and "setting." How do people in the industry read these box scores? Would an average of a "7" mean the script is "consider with reservations"? Would a "7.5" mean a consider? Would an "8" average mean "recommend"? Also, do high scores in some categories have greater significance? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4157 | 10/29/03 | Re 4070: The ICM agent continues to string us along. My attorney wants to put a "clock" on the actor. I'm afraid if we pressure him, we'll lose him, particularly since we are comparatively small potatoes, with no money offer on the table. Do you advise using clocks? (And don't worry, should I make it there, your Oscar mention's in the bag . . . ) | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4140 | 10/29/03 | hello, i will be down in the los angeles area in two weeks, and i would like to know since i don't have an agent, what is the best way to get your scripts sold, or even look at? thank you | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4125 | 10/27/03 | Thanks for your response to question #4123. The screenplay my friend and I are writting is a teen-horror -suspence. Do you think 95 pages is a good goal now that you know the gneres? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4123 | 10/26/03 | Hi, I have written a screenplay with my friend. We have finished the screenplay but are only on page 86. We afraid if we add too much stuff, it will ruin the story. Is 95 a reasonable goal? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4121 | 10/24/03 | Dear Graham, I met a story editor for a major film entertainment company at a writer's conference, said I had a script for a play and he asked to see it. I mailed it to him in early September and haven't heard from him. I'm tempted to drop him a friendly note asking if he has had a chance to read it after two months. Is this acceptable? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4114 | 10/22/03 | I have two synopises that I would like to see turn into scripts. Nonetheless, I am not a screenwriter. Should I pitch the synopises to agents now or should I wait until a script has been completed? Should I need a script,how does one locate a screenwriter who could write the script base upon the synopis? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4105 | 10/16/03 | Hello Graham, I have two characters in my screenplay who are professional basketball players. Can I use an actual team in the NBA as their team or do I have to make one up? If I make one up won't people have a hard time believing the team is in the NBA simply because they know it isn't? Are there any rules for writers regarding this type of situation? Thank you so much. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4087 | 10/10/03 | I’m writing a period screenplay and relying heavily on advice from a scholar-friend for historical accuracy. I haven’t brought up the subject of collaboration but I think my friend deserves some credit and compensation if my spec script sells. What’s the smart way to handle this? I want to avoid hard feelings or litigation that could arise if I do nothing, however, I’m definitely doing most of the work. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4084 | 10/10/03 | re # 4070: We had still been waiting on the manager, when the actor's ICM agent called. He asked about financiers. My attorney explained that we want to attach elements first and then go to financiers. My concern, now, is that even though the agent may think this role has Oscar potential, he'll be afraid to take that chance with a new screenwriter. (If this actor ever responds, I'm sending you flowers!) | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4083 | 10/9/03 | Hello. In the first ten minutes, is it all right to set up WHY the main character begins a journey, which is at the end of Act I, or should he BEGIN his journey in the first ten minutes? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4079 | 10/8/03 | what is a "leave behind"? I have two ideas based upon two books i own, the characters go thru more activities for a 2 hour feature, a TV series means 48 minutes, i dont want to restrict it for TV and not HBO, Do I write an extra 12 minutes and place them into the TV script when pitching for HBO, and take them out for NBC? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4070 | 10/2/03 | re 4065, 4028: Still no word from the manager!Every week, an answer has been promised -- and every week, nothing. Since the manager has been in consistent touch with my attorney, wouldn't said manager feel compelled, professionally, to report back to my attorney if her actor's answer is "No?" Or, is it conceiveable that the actor's said "No," and that his manager feels no responsibility to report that? Thank you Graham. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4065 | 9/29/03 | re #4028: Graham, Thanks much for your advice. You don't know how close you came to persuading me: I was out the door, best outfit on, and--I chickened! Perhaps all is not lost? I've learned the A-lister's agent & manager both love the script. But still no word from the man himself! The answer must vary, but how much sway do you think agent & manager will have with their actor? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4053 | 9/25/03 | If you want an ariel view of a scene, would you put the scene heading and then describe it in the action or just place it as a shot? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4037 | 9/22/03 | Dear Graham: I am writing a feature length screenplay. Due to its nature, it is a bit important to start it with some thrilling incident related with the story but not involving any of the main characters and then introduce the main characters to solve that incident, etc, would that be okay? Actually, I heard it somewhere that never write start feature film scripts like an episode of a 1 hour series. Could you please help me? Waiting. Junaid | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4028 | 9/19/03 | An A-list celebrity is considering attaching himself to my screenplay. The actor's agent has told my attorney he will have a definite answer next week. Said actor will be performing at an extremely small venue tomorrow night. I assume it would be un professional -- and a bad idea? -- for me to show up and introduce myself. Or is there somethng to that whole squeaky wheel thing? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 4017 | 9/17/03 | Hi, I'm wanting to submit a "profile" for a prodco script database, but the form requires me to state my age. I'm ridiculously underage, and I'm really afrad that it'll hurt my chances. The prodco also said that if the form was "not following their guidelines" (therefore I probably uncomplete), they will not include it. What should I do? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3995 | 9/6/03 | I've been in contract negotiations with a prod. co. and they're taking their time getting back to us with the changes we propsed. It's been almost a month. Can you give any advice on how to deal with this situation as I am anxiously awaiting an answer. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3991 | 9/4/03 | I hear a script should be 90-120 pages, but I hear the ideal for comedies are 90-100 pages. Are there any other genres that have an ideal amount? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3987 | 9/2/03 | Hello, I am trying to bring a new type of interview show to a music network. I want to write a spec script to give to an agent, however I cannot find any samples that would be fitting to my format. If you could provide any information on books or where I might be able to purchase a spec script (such as "The Man Show") I would really appreciate it. Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3985 | 9/1/03 | Hello Graham. I have just completed my first screenplay and what I was wonering is, are terms like E.C.U only to be used after a director has accepted your script? Should the first draft not have that terminolgy, and CUT TO:...are those both director terms and not writer terms? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you again. T. Doner | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3977 | 8/27/03 | I submitted a query letter recently to an indie prodco, and they have replied saying that they "have a further interest". Does that mean that they want to read my script? Or does it mean something else? I'm very conscious of this, as I want to make a good impression. I'm also worried about legal issues, as in if my age (I am a minor)will matter in any part. Will it? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3976 | 8/27/03 | They say not to put anything in a script that cannot be seen on screen, but can you give something so the actor or reader will know why it was done. For instance instead of saying: He pauses. Say: He pauses, stumped at the question. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3971 | 8/26/03 | I finally got someone to actually READ my material. He's the first person I've sent it to. He called me back and left a message on my machine. He wants to talk to me. It's been my experience that rejections usually come in the form of letters so I think this is a good thing. Only problem is he's not listed with the WGA. Is this a huge problem? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3968 | 8/24/03 | Hi Graham. I'm just preparing to sell my screenplay. I don't want to get an agent, but I will get an attorney if the appropriate time comes. Is this an okay thing to do? And, if so, how do I go about getting in to prod. co's etc to sell? Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3944 | 8/19/03 | If you have a screen in a script where a character talks, but it is another person's voice, how would you describe this? Action? Parenthetical? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3940 | 8/19/03 | Graham, I know the answer must vary, but how many D-girls or boys (if that's the term)does a producer, or producing team, generally have? I'm not talking about the larger companies, or studios, but about reputable, individual producers or teams (i.e., a team like Jinks/Cohen). Secondly, how many scripts (in a year, say) do you suppose a D-girl or boy might recommend to her/his boss? Thanks so much. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3922 | 8/11/03 | An independent producer contacted me and said I should pay ($500-$1000 per minute) to have a 2-3 minute trailer produced (by him) to help market my screenplay. He will then be my manager. He is located in Santa Monica and says he has many contacts who could get my TV movie produced. Does a trailer really get people's attention--or does this sound like a scam? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3919 | 8/11/03 | When a script is labeled a 'big budget' movie what is the budget of that script? 3 million? I talking thriller/horror genre. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3916 | 8/10/03 | After months of extensive research and outlining, I was ready to write a screenplay about a historical event. Suddenly, I found two trade articles from 1999 about a studio with a script and plans for their film about the same event. There's no more recent information on the Internet about this project. How can I learn the status of the rival project? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3911 | 8/10/03 | Is it smart to have scripts professionally "read" or is this process a scam? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3903 | 8/8/03 | Hey Graham. I'm writing a script about the relationship between a famous guy and his wife. Both have had biographies written about them, but the story wouldn't be a specific adaptation of any particular book. Would this still qualify as an 'adaptation,' requiring optioning of book- or life rights? Could I get around that since it's *inspired* by the bios rather than a retelling of a particular biography? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3892 | 8/5/03 | Recently I completed a screenplay about dementia. It's a true story, based on my own experience. I've been contacting agents and producers--but yesterday I learned that Hallmark is airing a movie "special" on Thanksgiving about Alzheimer's. Do you feel my screenplay is now "dead in the water" or would another network possibly show interest since my story is true--and the storyline appears to different from the Hallmark angle. Thank you! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3874 | 7/31/03 | I recently posted a logline for my script on this site, and have gotten an interest in it. The person said I could mail it, or e-mail it, and I was curious if a legit producer would ask you to e-mail it to them? And would that be okay to do? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3868 | 7/31/03 | Why does it take so long for a producer to respond to a script he was so anxious to read? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3866 | 7/30/03 | Here's the deal: An A-List actress coheads a production company w/her brother. The brother raved about my script & said that he (at least) is interested & "can't wait" for sister to read it. It's been nearly 2 months. My attorney has put in reminder call. Anything else I can do? Thanks so much. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3860 | 7/30/03 | An Independent Producer requested to read my script. I overnighted the script to him and he recvd on July 14th. How come I haven't heard back from him? I emailed a follow-up letter on 7/28 and still no response. What is the normal response time? Thank you so much for your help. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3858 | 7/29/03 | I was curious on what is the difference in pay if a independant company buys you script, than if a major studio bought it? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3857 | 7/29/03 | A producer requested to read my script. He recvd on July 14th via FedEx. I have yet to hear back from him. Last weekend I was looking over my script and came across a few typo's that were overlooked during my revision process. Will the producer be turned off by the script even though he likes the story or will he overlook these few mistakes? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3852 | 7/28/03 | Graham, After recieving great results from writing screenplays in the last three years (finalist in contests, and optioned)yet still no representation and since I live in Georgia, should I begin transforming my scripts into novels and targeting N.Y. instead of L.A. since I know I have writing skills and unfortunately was born in the wrong part of the U.S.A.? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3847 | 7/26/03 | hi i wrote a book and now a prod company is asking for pitching rights for 18 months, for 100$. the purchace right they are offering is 2.5% of the movie budget, no less than 40000 $, and not more than 110000 $. is it a reasonable price, concerning it suppose to be a romantic comedy?? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3841 | 7/24/03 | Hey Graham, when a scene takes place outside a closed door, but the sounds and action come from inside, how do you define that in a scene heading? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3840 | 7/24/03 | Mr. Flashner, I am writing my first play and having a hard time not putting down everything, at this rate my script is going to be at least a feature 3 hour film. Is that all right? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3824 | 7/23/03 | I would like to know is it much easier to sell your first novel than selling your first screenplay? And would the profit be much rewarding? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3807 | 7/22/03 | i would like to know can a aspring writer sell a spec television pliot? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3801 | 7/22/03 | Graham, thank you guys for what you do.If you log on to Writers Guild for the list of agents that will look at new or unsolicited writers. There are ONLY TWO!!! So referring an unknown writer to the agent list is like "passing the buck" and more insanity. Isn't the bottom line three choices -that you have to either live in L.A. and starve or win a contest or "Know" someone in the business? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3800 | 7/21/03 | How do I cut through the clutter and get an agent to read my material? I've been working at my craft for over six years. I've written 5 teleplays and pitched to a popular t.v. show. I'm a college graduate and I rewrote my screenplay seven times. My writing ability is a notch or two above average. I query great too. But I can't get read. Any thoughts? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3797 | 7/20/03 | I have been considering a name for my screenplay. I wanted to use the name of a place in the title or as the title it's self. It is a place in Europe with historical value. I was wondering if I had to obtain rights to use it or anything. Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3795 | 7/19/03 | Hi! What legalities are involved in writing an adaptation/remake? The book I have in mind is old and relatively unknown. There have been a few film and made-for-tv versions of it, but it is basically forgotten. My screenplay is true to the book, though I've changed themes and characters that are nowadays off-color. How should I go about selling the script, since it isn't my story, but one that is very worthy of retelling? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3793 | 7/18/03 | Hey Graham, just wondering if sites like done deal, are a good way to get feedback, because it seems no matter what I post I get negative criticism, and when I do what one says, another tells me to do what I did to begin with. Do I just suck at writing? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3792 | 7/18/03 | Graham, I have a television project,talent & a pitch meeting with a reputable company. I want to compose a strong letter of intent from the talent(he has all ready agreed to sign) to include with my pitch material. Is there anything other than "intent to participate" that I should convey? And, as the creator of this project, what will I be expected to present to them other than the material and talent? Thanks, Travis | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3782 | 7/16/03 | As Movies are getting dumber and dumberer, how long before the cycle and pattern returns back to quality instead of re-makes and cartoon character-based films? Also i've read where many writers recieved calls from producers after finishing in the finals at Austin -I did and I haven't gotten a single call-Do I exsist? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3777 | 7/14/03 | What are the legalities involved in writing a screenplay based on the life of a historical figure? Would you have to buy the rights from every source you got information from, like biographies, documentaries, encyclopedias? Since the information of the historical figure's life is pretty much the same in every book I’ve read, how would anyone know where I got the information? Couldn’t I get away with not having to buy rights? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3772 | 7/10/03 | Hi Graham, To ensure that a company is legit...what kind of questions should I be asking them? Thanks for all your help, Victoria | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3759 | 7/7/03 | re 3757: Graham, thanks so much for your response. An attorney is representing me. I have had the script to three top agents--all of whom had high praise for my writing, and no interest in signing me based on a script that they believe is a "hard-sale." Is it worthwhile to have my attorney reapproach the agents with the news that an A-List actor & director are reading the screenplay? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3757 | 7/7/03 | An A-List actor and an A-List director have my screenplay, and have expressed enthusiasm for its subject matter. How long might it reasonably take for either party to respond? It has been nearly three months. Should I despair? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3755 | 7/6/03 | Hey Graham: Im just finishing the final re-write on a screenplay whos genre would fall under historical drama. Because the majority of the story actually took place I was concerned that somebody could simply write their own version of the events even after you copyrighted your screenplay.After all history is a matter of public rechord, there for anyone to research. I wonder if Jim Cameron had the same worries when he wrote Titanic? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3753 | 7/6/03 | I was wondering if you are familiar with WritersScriptNetwork.com and if so, what you thought of it. For a first time screenwriter, it seems like an ideal place to get noticed. But is it as useful and trustworthy as it appears? Maybe an easier question would be: do you or your colleagues use it to find new talent? Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3722 | 6/26/03 | I keep hearing that a script has to be this and that to be looked at by professionals, and one of the things is that the script has to have more action, less talking. Well I recently read a 147 page script, and took out all of the action, scene headings, and transitions, and the script only cut to 129 pages, and itwas produced. So when are there acceptions to the so called screenplay writing rules. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3707 | 6/26/03 | Hi! How can an aspring screenwriter get representation if no one is accepting new writers? Secondly, Where can i find a list of good agents or managers that will look at new writers | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3696 | 6/24/03 | Hi: I'm working on my next screenplay and I've run into a problem. I have to write several scenes where the characters are scuba diving. Is this INT. or EXT? They are IN the water, but they are OUTSIDE of a building. When the characters are between the surface and the ocean floor how do you describe this with a slug line? Thanks Much. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3694 | 6/23/03 | I recently heard that you can send query letters to agents of actors to request them to look at your work. What are the chances of a work being produced by this method? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3692 | 6/23/03 | I want to purchase all the rights to a 50-year old film so I can produce a sequel. Money issues aside, how do I go about verifying the current owners and tracking them down so I can make a legitimate purchase offer/inquiry? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3687 | 6/22/03 | Hey Graham, I have finished my first script, in which I definately want to be published, whether it is my first published or not, but my questionis: Is it normal for a person to start another script, only to have it interrupted by an idea for a new one? This has happened three times, and I have yet to finish a script #2. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3686 | 6/22/03 | Sir, As a new screenwriter, I had recently sent a copy of my script to a producer who ahd requested to read it. After sending it to him, I realized that I had made a mistake in the formatting: Forgot to CAP the first instance of the characters. Should I resend the script or is it already over with this producer? Is this truly a cardinal sin in formatting? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3674 | 6/20/03 | Can you recommend any good books or tapes on the art of pitching your ideas to Hollywood. Also, what would be an average price a person could expect when selling a script for a 2-hour TV movie? A producer liked my script, said it was very sellable, but said it would fit TV better. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3673 | 6/20/03 | Dear Graham. After 1,5 years of struggeling i finally maged to obtain all film & Publishingrights from author, to his bestselling trilogy for kids and youngsters. Its my goal to publish the trilogy Globally and produce 3 featurefilms based on this trilogy + merchandise& Pc games as well., the question is:how do i get to coproduce all these possibilities all the way,and not get screewed by my partners and competition?, | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3670 | 6/18/03 | I queried an agent about my lastest screenplay. He then requested the first 20 pages of my script, a logline and synopsis. (This firm is a very small company outside of California.) Every book I've read says do not submit a synopsis. Is it normal for an agent to request part of a script and a synopsis? Am I right in feeling apprehensive about doing business with this guy? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3656 | 6/17/03 | Sir, I live in Florida and have a list of wga approved agents whom I 've called, trying to get a real persons name. But only get no answers or machines. Do I just send a query addressed to the agency and pray it will get into the right hands? Secondly, there are only a handfull here in Florida, so should I also query agents in California (where most seem to be anyway)? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3646 | 6/13/03 | When writing a montage that involves different locations, am I allowed to mention in the scene header that it's a montage. And please give me an example of how you would write a montage involving many locations, or recommend a montage scene in a screenplay I could find online. Thanks, 'Sunkanmi | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3639 | 6/10/03 | Dear Mr. Flashner, When seeking new scripts, some agencies and production companies will specify the budget for a particular movie. Can you outline what is considered low, medium and high budget, and how a screenwriter can determine where (budget wise)his particular script may fall? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3636 | 6/9/03 | I have written a detailed outline of a story that I'm pretty certain I can get to a very well-known screenplay writer. I need to know what steps to take regarding collaborations. Do I register or copyright the treatment/outline? I want to protect my idea, but don't want to hinder any later negotiations with buyers. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3577 | 5/31/03 | graham, could you please explain when, where, why, and what is "a beat"? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3535 | 5/24/03 | A few weeks ago I was given incredibly positive coverage by this very website for my script. 1)Should I include all of the coverage, a select portion, simply refer to it or not mention it at all in my query letters? 2) My script has been requested at least 35 times in the past 6 weeks. Is is appropriate to follow up with a phone call if I haven't heard back for 4 weeks? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3531 | 5/24/03 | Hi Graham, Please forgive my 'off-topic' question. ONE HOUR PHOTO: I understood the motivation behind Robin Williams' character - that in the photo library he created he was 'archiving' (replacing a distressing history with a happier one of his own making). I didn't understand the final scene, though. What was the significance of the photos he laid out on the table in the police station? Thanks, Clare | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3529 | 5/21/03 | I have been asked to submit my current bio to an agent. Is there a standard industry format and what information should it contain? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3510 | 5/19/03 | Hey Graham. I have a script question. I know usually its advised to leave out music, but if I think the score/soundtrack is very important to the style of the film, shall I include it? Would it be better to just guide it that way in a synopsis? Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3504 | 5/17/03 | Graham, I have a project in process that is based on a true historical story and could work either as a TV movie or documentary. Could you advise me on how I might test which market would be my best shot and then how I might go about targetting the right individuals to pitch this idea to in that market. Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3488 | 5/13/03 | I can't afford multi-cameras but will have to film a talk-show type scene with one and make it look like four.Is there a procedure you take on this? and is there any secrets or pitfalls in making the scene flow and not get too choppy when you are shooting with a single camera? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3487 | 5/13/03 | Could you please tell me what the page length is for a MOW? Don't you have to leave room for comercials? And what are some good books to research on how to write TV movies? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3472 | 5/11/03 | One of my screenplays has done very well in several writing contests. One of the major contests provided coverage from one of the rounds. The coverage is terrific. Should I send the coverage along with the query letter to an agent I am trying to get to represent my project? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3469 | 5/11/03 | Hi Graham. Is it possible to sign a script with the WGA if it's adapted from say a book or something. Is that still okay? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3464 | 5/10/03 | A prod co has had my script for about four months and they've kept on telling me there's heat there's heat on your project but they haven't signed anything with me yet and they only seem to get back to me when I push. The producer has even said they have financers for it. My question is do I push for answers or let it go and tell them where to go? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3462 | 5/10/03 | I was considering writing up a visual metaphor as the opening shot of my screenplay. My protagonist is struggling against society. He has deep seeded feelings of being trapped by the system. I was considering opening the screenplay with a fly trapped in a spider web, struggling to get out. Then the camera re-focuses on the protagonist as he walks into the room. Too artsy? Trite? What are your thoughts? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3456 | 5/8/03 | I just received a request from a producer to see my script and the treatment. Why would they want to see the treatment in addition to the completed script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3452 | 5/7/03 | Re#3435 Sir, I am from India. Indian english is similar to British english in writing. I do know american writing differs from the British. So will that be a reason for rejection of my query letter and/or screenplay? thanks for taking time, warm regards, Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3435 | 5/5/03 | Sir, I had recently purchased HCD-managers and agents and also HCD-producers. There some agencies and producers had given that they don't accept any unsolicited material. should I atleast send them my query letters or not? thanks for taking time, warm regards, Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3428 | 5/4/03 | What I meant about writing a script about a song was, I heard a song that I think the story being told in the ballad could be adapted, with a lot added, into a great script. Who do I need to contact. The record label? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3422 | 5/4/03 | I heard a song that has inspired an idea for a screenplay. What exactly must I do, if anything? How close to the song must it be to need permission? And if I do need some kind of permission, is it from the writer of the song, singer, or production company? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3421 | 5/4/03 | Please advise on how to properly fasten your screenplay together. I keep reading "Brad fasteners." 1 1/2 inch? 2 or 3? Do you need back side washers? Is it okay to use 1 1/4 binder clips? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3410 | 5/1/03 | Hi Graham, I've been asked to write a screenplay for a guy who has produced a couple of movies, but he wants better scripts. He's asked me, and I believe I can provide a good product in 10 days. I said $750 per day...$7500. Is that a fair price for my first screenplay? Should I receive more $$$ if the movie is made? Thanks... | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3407 | 5/1/03 | What exactly is the difference between a manager and an agent? What do each have to offer, and which should I be looking for? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3397 | 4/28/03 | Hi Graham, I've registered my script with WGA, copyright protected it with the U.S Copyright office, and now an Agent has asked to read my screenplay. Is there anything else I can do to protect my story from being "stolen" or used by another? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3365 | 4/24/03 | My question is: can a NON-INCIDENT have enough power to convincingly pull the main character through the story? Can something not happen, which the main character did want to have happen, have enough credibility to keep the main character in a "status quo" type of a state and still propel the story forward? Would the form work if the really powerful Inciding Incident occurs on page 60 rather than page 30? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3358 | 4/23/03 | Mr. Flasher, I just went to see the movie Anger Management and liked it very much. I noticed that used the song "I feel pretty..." by singing it. Since the song is pretty important to the story, did they have to ask permission to use it? I know writers shouldn't include songs in the background but what happens if you want the characters to sing it? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3349 | 4/23/03 | If you're writing a sports screenplay and you first mention the CROWD cheers, you're supposed to CAP that, right? What about a few pages later when you mention the "crowd" again? Is there a hard and fast rule about CAPS regarding people who are not speaking characters? Or just CAPS in general? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3346 | 4/22/03 | Dear Mr. Flashner, This is a audio question. I'm having a canned audience track,a live show of dialouge track,an animal overdub of talking, A musical guest who I need to record the CD for audio,in varuois parts of a variety show.Seems to me I need several tracks...I'm very familiar with music recording (32 trk. 64 trk. etc.)but how does this work with film? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3344 | 4/22/03 | This is a follow-up to 3335. So how would I set this out? INTERCUT: EXT. WOODS blah blah INT. RESTAURANT blah de blah blah and then would I just leave out the scene headers? Thanks again | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3336 | 4/21/03 | Hi. I know it's quite a broad question, but what kind of fee should one expect for their first screenplay? Can you give me some sort of idea? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3335 | 4/21/03 | Hi Graham. When there is a scene which has two locations, switching between them, e.g. a phone conversation, do I need a scene header every time I change location? I have about 10-15 location changes, and there's usually only a line or so in each. Does this matter? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3320 | 4/19/03 | Hi, Graham. If I own the option to a true life story that a buyer purchases, is the real life subject (person) of the story paid also? I have no idea what kind of money true life stories go for. Can you give me an ideal -- a range of lower and higher sale prices? Does the story subject (person) and writer split (50-50) the sale price? Thank you!! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3319 | 4/19/03 | Hi, Graham: I'm writing a screenplay on a true life story of a woman I know. Must I OPTION the rights to her story before I "shop" the script? Do I have to have an attorney draw up the agreement or is there a standard agreement somewhere I can use? Do I have to pay money for the option in order for it to be legal? Thank you! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3303 | 4/17/03 | Regarding #3272. Changing from 10 pt to 12 pt shot my script up from 120 to 156 pgs. What a blessing that mistake was. I cut it back, knowing now what it means to make every word nessesary. It is now finished at 124 pgs. and is a much better, tighter script. You were not the bearer of bad news after all. :-) | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3299 | 4/16/03 | Dear Mr. Flashner, I am filming an independent pilot of a show and it's about 1/2 finished.Some of the actors have some really good scenes of themselves in this and i am wondering how I should handle giving them copies. Shouldn't they wait until it is finished and edited? If I give out one then they are all going to want it.Is there a diplomatic way to handle this.The show is months away from being completed.Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3295 | 4/16/03 | Mr. Flashner, how long does is the process from sending out a query letter to getting a reply? How about when you send them your script to receiving a response? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3294 | 4/16/03 | I have a paragraph I want the audience to read, at the begining of my film. What's the format for this? SCENE CARD: "blah, blah, blah." or CAPTION: "blah, blah, blah." or just "blah, blah, blah." Any help would be great. Thanks much. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3278 | 4/12/03 | I've written an opening for my screenplay. I've written how the scenes should look and even the music. Do I put the description of how everything is supposed to go in the screenplay? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3276 | 4/12/03 | Which screenwriting softwares do you recommend? Could you list a couple? I don't have a lot to spend, but am serious about writing and want to be prefessional. I will save up what I have to, to get what I need. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3274 | 4/11/03 | Thanks for straightening out my font size problem. Back to the drawing board. As far as me updating, I have Windows XP and my MS Word only has Courier New. I just bought this computer less than a year ago. I must be missing something cause I can't find Courier, just Courier New. Thanks again for your help. It's great to have you around. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3272 | 4/10/03 | What is the correct font and size? I've downloaded movie scripts to read off the internet. They appear to me to be 10 pt. Courier. Is it supposed to be 10 or 12? I've just compleated my first draft 120 pages in Courier New 10 pt. Please don't tell me I have to redo it in 12 pt. I don't have regular Courier. What's the difference in them? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3261 | 4/9/03 | I've already written and published a book. I'm adapting it now into a screenplay. Can I change some of the character's names. I probably made a mistake by using a few real names (good friends-possitively) If there true names (first and last) made it into a movie, could that be a sticky situation? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3256 | 4/9/03 | thank you for answering my other question. now i have 2 more. 1.Can you recommend a good book for young screenwriters? 2. How many pages over the 120 limit can a new writer go if the story requires a little bit more length? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3249 | 4/8/03 | How does a young person (High school) find someone who is interested in a truly gripping story without being written off immediatly because of there age? Also, for 1st timers how do you get your story out there? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3234 | 4/5/03 | Mr. Flashner, I have 2 questions. 1--When typing in courier, do you put a space between paragraphs or indent regularly? 2--I can't afford a screenwriting program so I use Microsoft Word. Will it matter if my character's dialog isn't in a column that's 3.5'' wide? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3233 | 4/5/03 | My computer won't allow me to format my script beyond setting the proper page margins. Will it matter if my character's dialog looks like this: GUY .so he says that she said he................................ instead of: GIRL ...Let's go back to the way things... | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3227 | 4/4/03 | IS there any other way to get in contact with a studio executive other than an agent? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3222 | 4/3/03 | In a script, do you describe what your characters are wearing? Are you even allowed too? And If you are, do you write it in the script or set aside special pages for it? This is really nawing at me, because I'm working on my second screenplay. Please help. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3218 | 4/3/03 | Thanks for answering my q#3195. Now, My script was a finalist at Austin, temporarily optioned by an indie-company and it's gotten promise from Filmstew.com.I enter Nicholl and Austin yearly. Question- I still can't get an agent to rep me after hundreds of query letters, If they need writers to stay in business why won't they at least read my script with a signed release? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3205 | 3/31/03 | How do you write dialog which works? Dialog should: 1. Reveal character. 2. Move the story forward. Problem is: PEOPLE DON'T SPEAK LIKE ROBOTS! How do you express through dialog, story exposition without it sounding like story exposition? How do you make characters sound real and at the same time convey important story information? People don't say what they're thinking! I find myself writing "on the nose" too much. Help... | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3204 | 3/31/03 | I've been made on offer to produce my screenplay. It's for 2% of the budget (200k). Is this a standard fee for indie films? Is there any room for negtiation? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3195 | 3/28/03 | Hi. If you read the latest script sales the loglines are lame and if they get read with the unclever "A magical romance develops between a man and woman whose destinies are intertwined" and they want us to come up with clever loglines Does an unconnected writer REALLY stand a chance? Isn't it all just "who you know?" | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3193 | 3/27/03 | After 'going wide' with query letters, two separate Hollywood producers requested a copy of my published book. I would prefer to sell the film rights outright rather than grant a pre-emptive option to purchase. Is this unreasonable? What is the norm for literary properties such as this? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3158 | 3/19/03 | Hi, I'm from Britain, does this mean I cant be a director/screenwriter? How the hell do I do this, it seems impossible. Theres no way I can live in the US, so how do I do it. I'm 18! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3152 | 3/18/03 | Hello,l just findsh writting a story, lam looking for a buyer, is all about advanture. please can your help l 'll greatful to hear from you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3144 | 3/15/03 | An agent at CAA read one of my screenplays, and returned it to me with a letter asking me to send him anything else I'd written. I sent him another screenplay by Fed Ex, that he received on February 6. I've not heard back from him yet. When should I write him to find out what's happening? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3143 | 3/15/03 | Hi Graham, My question is about format. I am having a hard time going between bits of dialogue and the rest of the scene. The change in voices is not quite even it seems. How do you switch back and forth ?? Thank you for your attention. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3124 | 3/8/03 | Is there anyway I can send a query letter by email to an agent in Hollywood? I read that no proper agent reads scripts via email. But since I live in New Zealand, it seems like the only way. Could you tell me some alternatives? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3122 | 3/8/03 | I'm almost finished with my script, but I want to know what to do with it when I'm finished. Should I enter it into a competition? Should I send a query letter? I also can't find any agents or managers, since I do not want to use any money to purchase books etc. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3121 | 3/8/03 | When the credits roll in a movie, sometimes they'll say "written by..." or "original screenplay by..." "screenplay by..." "story by..." What's the difference? And I've read it's possible to write a screenplay, but not have your name show up in the credits at all once the movie is made. How is this possible? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3094 | 3/2/03 | There have been many sports movies that have done well, but the only movies I have ever seen about soccer are for children. I have outlined a plot about a soccer player trying to make the national team, but it is also a mystery/thriller. With soccer growing a little in the United States, do you think a producer would consider a movie like that? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3076 | 2/27/03 | Paramount Pictures bought a pitch "very" similar to my screenplay. How do I go about getting another studio or developement executive to look at my script or at least my logline or synopsis. I know studios are often in a neck-and-neck competition trying to out do the other by making similar films at the same time. Any advice you can offer is greatly appreciated. Thank you for you time, Jeffrey Dainton | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3066 | 2/26/03 | Mr. Flashner, all of the superhero movies out there are based on the original comic books. I was just wondering: what are the chances of someone like me writing my own superhero script and getting it read? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3041 | 2/20/03 | Graham, I would also like to ask you, your very good advisor and you have a great background in the business, have you ever thought about becoming an agent? You would be awesome! My question is this, I keep researching,(writers Guild) but keep coming up with the same agents and agencies in California; you have to be connected to go with them! Can you name me "one" website who lists good spec agents? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3040 | 2/20/03 | It became very clear to me that writing queries to get an agent is useless. I even had further evidence of this, when I heard that most agencies throws all their queries in the trash; unopened! Besides that, agents are all about "powerdeals";connections. Which brings me to this, since queries are so ignored, why is it unadviced to fax them? If I write the agents name on the Fax, will he trash it, too? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3037 | 2/19/03 | Dear Mr. Flashner, I have done about 56 pages of my screenplay. I have followed the standard spec script layout carefully, but I've made a tiny mistake. I'm off on the names by about 2 mm each side. Will that matter? And once the screenplay is completed, how can I pitch in the idea to a Hollywood Production Company from New Zealand? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3025 | 2/16/03 | Hi Graham-- My name is Raj Nangunoori, and I am an aspiring science fiction writer. I am currently working on a project (screenplay) and want to know how I can get in contact with agents or editors to take a look at my screenplay to consider it for production. So ultimately my question is, where can I get a list of agents? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3024 | 2/16/03 | After submitting a screenplay I was told (by producer) it had big potential. It needs a rewrite before they will market the property. I can resubmit but they seem concerned -- suggested a professional rewriter (willing to work for small $'s and % of any sell -- no $'s offered from producer yet). Bonafide industry situation, or way to separate a "wanna-be" from his money? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3009 | 2/12/03 | Please tell me the minimum pages for a feature. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 3008 | 2/12/03 | I wanted to know if you send out a lot of query letters and your script to agencies, Lawyers, etc. and your script is not ready. Will your name not get recognition again if you send out a really great screenplay after the first screenplays you send out: Also is it possible for a writer with a rare and good script to make a sale with an agent and writer living in NY: | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2995 | 2/8/03 | An independant production company (not a WGA signatory) wants to buy "all rights" to a script for $15,000.00 - this doesn't sound like a good deal to me. What exactly does "All Rights" mean? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2983 | 2/4/03 | Hi Graham, I am writing a screenplay. Although I am a new writer and haven't done this before, I am very confident that I have a great screenplay. My concern is about selling it or finding an agent to represent me. I live in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. I do have a list of agents here in downtown Toronto. How can I make this happen - what do I need to know? Thank you for your help. Victoria | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2982 | 2/4/03 | If you've written a novel and believe it would make a great movie, how much of a price difference is there from letting someone else write the screenplay--to writing the screenplay yourself? I own the rights. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2975 | 2/1/03 | In a feature script I'm working on, I have two stoner girl characters named CHEE CHEE AND CHONGA. Is there some copyright infringment with this - in other words, do I need Cheech and Chong's permission to continue with this project as is? Thank you for your invalueable time!!! -Kimberly | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2967 | 1/31/03 | I want to write a screenplay for a 4 book series. (YA PB novels)I'd like to know how to determine whether it should be written for cinema, tv, or mini-series. Are the sale prices very different? I believe I could adapt my story to any of these scripts. How do you determine which kind of script it should be or which is easier to sell? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2961 | 1/29/03 | I have so many questions, even regarding what managers I'm looking at I should sign with (who has a good rep, etc),plus actual questions regarding producing. Classes aren't an option, because things are happening too quick.Do you know of any consultants or anyone to help?I go to Samuel French and sit down with a stack of books and still need answers. Please, if you know anyone or anywhere to go it will save me. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2941 | 1/27/03 | Do you have any idea where a film-maker might find filming crew members looking for experience in lieu of pay? Young hungy types trying to build a reel? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2933 | 1/26/03 | I have two nearby East Coast attorneys interested in sending my screenplay to different studios and also have a West Coast producer/agent interested in distributing it to other places. Is it OK to have them all working on this at the same time and then let whomever sells it first get 10% of whatever sales price they negotiate? If not, which would be the better option? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2930 | 1/24/03 | When writing my script, I work under the assumption that it is to be in spec format. That is, to try to keep the details and descriptions to a minimum, no camera angles or scene number…Then I look at the finalists or other scripts that have advanced in contests and they look more like shooting scripts. If I wish to enter a contest, do I need to have two versions of the same script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2906 | 1/17/03 | What factors decide the production of a film, even when the film is an obvious dud right from the get-go? Is it all to do with the marketablility of a certain section of the marketplace, or are some of the stories out there just so awful that all it takes is a wink, a nod and a handshake? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2904 | 1/17/03 | I was just curious as to two things. One: What should spacing be like between two different characters and their dialogue and Two: Can you give a brief example of a dream montage? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2882 | 1/13/03 | When is the best time to register a script with the WGA? Should I send it in after the first draft, before it is sent out for coverage or should I wait until I get it back and register it after the “polished” draft? I have read that people register both drafts, since the two versions are probably going to be different from each other. At which time do you suggest registering a script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2872 | 1/6/03 | Grahm, I have several short stories that could easily be made into animated movies. I am not a writer! Where could I go to find someone to help collaborate on a script? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2869 | 1/5/03 | In an answer you gave in question #2867, you said to contact the Writers Guild of Canada. I need to do this, but I do not know how to contact them. I was hoping you could tell me their phone number or address. Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2868 | 1/5/03 | I have written 2 scripts and submitted them both to this website. I am still waiting for a reply, but on the slim chance they are purchased by people from this website, what will I have to do. Will I have to go anywhere or do anything? Thank you! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2867 | 1/5/03 | I have written 2 scripts, but I am only 16 years old. Am I able to sell it by myself, or do I need a parents permission or what? How would someone such as myself go about getting an agent in a small Canadian town, and who do I go to to try to sell my scripts? Thank you very much. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2863 | 1/4/03 | In filming outdoor scenes in crowded cities (such as Manhattan), is the filmmaker required to obtain releases from anyone and everyone milling about, or is it okay to include pedestrians inadvertantly filmed without attaching them contractually to the film? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2860 | 1/4/03 | Hi, I have regular 'flashback' type scenes where the protaganist is seen in his childhood but he is not actually thinking back - it's extra information. What's the best way to do this as 'Flashback'seems a bit crappy. I hate the thought of the character having to say to another 'when I was a kid etc etc'. Should I write the scene with the character name or refer to him as 'boy'? Any tips around this issue | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2854 | 1/2/03 | Hi, my name is Jonathan, I'm 14, and I'm writing my first screenplay. I need Help with one of my snuglines. If it is in the Condominium Building, but not inside where you live. Is that INT. or EXT. Wouldn't EXT. be out of the building completly? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2846 | 1/1/03 | Re:question 2838. You were right! This last suggestion worked. Thanks a million! One last question: When I query the actor's agent, is it good (or unprofessional) to mention that the part was written specifically for this person? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2844 | 12/30/02 | How "directed"should a spec scrpt be?Flashbacks/"back to scene"..POV (& back2scene)calling 4 shots of indiv.char.'s..should I "direct"in this way at all,even for action type scrpt?????? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2838 | 12/28/02 | Re question #2834. I've tried that. I've googled myself to death. I've called SAG and pretended to be a producer - they ask questions that you have to have an answer for or they know what you're up to. I've tried the agency - they screen the calls and won't release names like that. I guess I just have to hope a temp answers the phone one day. Thanks anyway! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2835 | 12/26/02 | this isn't a question, but in answer to the other person's question, you can find agent's for actors thru www.filmtracker.com by susbcribing to their Info service database, though it is $60/mo. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2834 | 12/24/02 | Hi. My question is: How do I find the name of the agent for a particular actor. I see several people have asked this question before and the advice they get is to contact SAG - however, SAG refuses to release this information to writers. They will only give contact info to producers. I know the AGENCY this person is with, I just don't know their agent. Can you help? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2830 | 12/23/02 | If you're approaching a DP to hire for the production of an indie, is it okay to send a shooting script, which might better set the stage for budgeting the shoot, or is this a categorical no-no in the beginning of a business relationship? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2806 | 12/16/02 | How do I handle a series of action sequences involving the passage of days? I have it where two characters meet with each other trying to complete a specific task. This probably would be during a music sequence. Would the first master heading be a montage or series of shots, then put the actions in the separate sub-headings, or should I just type each individual master heading for the particular location? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2777 | 12/11/02 | If a good entertainment attorney is interested in you as a long term client, will they charge you hourly, or jsut work on commision from your project sales like how an agent would? 2. Will an attorney help a client find an agent and manager? Does it make sense early in a carrer to have as much rep. as possible? How do you know who's goodwill a good one take on anyone for hourly? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2758 | 12/9/02 | In terms of independent films, how much does the distributor typically take off the top of box office receipts? For example, if the movie grosses $1M, what percentage does the film maker wind up with to offset production, typically? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2747 | 12/6/02 | In screenwriting dialogue, is it ok to use dashes as vocal cues or are they overkill? For example, if I want to say "be careful," can I say "be c-a-r-e-f-u-l" to stress the dragging out of the word? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2741 | 12/6/02 | OOPS! I meant to say Escape, not Expose. If Escape Artists bites on a script, do they have the weight (at Sony) to push a project to development, or are they an initial screener that must then pass the baton to decision-makers higher up at Sony? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2739 | 12/6/02 | If Expose Artists bites on a script, do they have the weight (at Sony) to push a project to development, or are they an initial screener that must then pass the baton to decision-makers higher up at Sony? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2733 | 12/5/02 | Graham, IM now retired over 10 years from the business. Having been a set builder/supervisor and consultant on many popular shows on both coasts. I have a terrific idea for a sitcom but Im not at all interested in writing the pilot. I'd much rather pitch the idea to one of the young & hungry new screen writers. I wouldn't mind just to be listed as "created by" if that's even possible. Any suggestions? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2730 | 12/4/02 | Mr. Flashner, my question is regarding rewriting. How do you know when you're suppose to fix the existing script or start from scratch? What is the best way to go about rewriting? Thanks - Kimberli | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2727 | 12/3/02 | Mr. Flashner, I'm been filming an idea for a talk show recently and should probably take it as a good sign but people are talking too much about it and I can't really copyright it until it is done .( or can I?) Where can I find a std. non-disclosure type form? If someone breaks this by talking to TV people do you sue them? Am I over-reacting? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2713 | 11/28/02 | I have written a synopsis for a sequel to a major motion picture. How do I go about selling this document? Would it be beneficial to also complete a first draft or maybe treatment as well? I do not want to waste my time on something that might not happen while I can write other stuff. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2711 | 11/27/02 | I was curious if there was a reliable resource for finding the agents that represent A-list actors. Specifically, I was trying to send a screenplay to Russell Crowe, Tom Cruise and Vin Diesel, but there are others that I'd like to attempt to contact. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2700 | 11/23/02 | What are the rules and guidelines concerning the use of names of actual people in a screenplay? For example, I wrote a script based on a true event that ocurred during WW II. To keep it authentic, most of the characters are the actual people, who were involved. I'm in the process of negotiating an option agreement on the script. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2692 | 11/22/02 | Hello. I need some help with this one. What can a aspring writer can do when he's being rejected by agents who claims they would accepted new writers. i can't afford any screenwriting classes or consultant services and i can't afford right now to come to Los Angeles. So tell me what can i do? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2681 | 11/19/02 | I don’t write high concept. I grew up watching foreign films and I like to have my characters move the plot rather then the plot moving the characters. It’s been my experience that almost every other country takes the opposite approach to creating cinema. I was wondering how I would go about sending out my script/queries to the foreign film markets. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2674 | 11/14/02 | Hello. I would like to know have there ever been a spec screenplay to win or been nominated for an oscar? Secondly, do many hollywood writers makes their living just by selling spec screenplays? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2666 | 11/13/02 | Hello. I would like to know after you have sold your screenplay. Are there any chances of you landing a deal with a major studio or any studio for that matter? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2655 | 11/11/02 | I would like to sell the rights to my life story. How do I go about finding a buyer? Was given to pedophile at age 12 and kept photos and journals for 4 years, now 20 years later have prevailed in criminal proceedings and he's in prison. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2643 | 11/6/02 | This is from a release form I was sent, is this standard? 6. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, I hereby release you of and from any and all claims, demands, liabilities of every kind whatsoever, known or unknown, that may arise in relation to the Submitted Material or by reason of any claim now or hereafter made by me that you have used or appropriated the Submitted material, except for fraud or willful injury on your part. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2608 | 10/23/02 | I have a producer who liked my screenplay and wants to develop it with me. Does this put me a lot closer to an option or sale? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2594 | 10/17/02 | I recently had a very good meeting with people interested in optioning my screenplay. What happens now? I am really reluctant in optioning my story, seeing as this is a new company I am not so sure if they will get it made. They want a TWO YEAR option. It's one year with an option (THEIR OPTION!!) for another. Can you please advise. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2584 | 10/13/02 | I write scripts that vary enormously in genre and would am inquirying whether there are phases with genres.Are there times when it is easier to sell a genre and other times when it is very hard? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2577 | 10/2/02 | Hi. Is it a good idea (and worth it) to try to sell/pitch your screenplay at film festivals? If so, how do you go about it? Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2572 | 10/2/02 | Dear Graham: I've written a screenplay based on a story published in Esquire in 1938. I have been told that it is in the public domain. Is there any way I can verify this? Also, Paramount did a movie based on this story in 1954. If it is still under copyright, Can I assume that Paramount still owns the rights? And what does that mean for me? Thanks, George | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2568 | 10/1/02 | I asked a local attorney to prepare contract between author of book I am optioning and myself. He suggested he charge me hourly fee up to 5 hours and then "fair percentage and cap" of script's selling price. Is this normal? I haven't even written script and eventually would split whatever I got with agent, book's author, and my lawyer. Also - how might I contact a "real" entertainment lawyer? - Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2563 | 9/30/02 | Graham, thanks for answering my recent purchase price question. For a totally different question now, what is the appropriate term for the "Ship/Location/(Military)Time Box" we often see in the corner of our screen in military films or shows such as JAG when locations change (ie. USS INDIANAPOLIS, INDIAN OCEAN, 0300 ZULU)? And they don't really scroll from left to right. What do they do? - thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2555 | 9/29/02 | Making movies is a business and what it comes down to is the profit margin. Screenwriters, directors and actors be damned! It's the executives that run the industry, we all know that. So how far should I, as a screenwriter, bend in order to keep a little of my masterpiece, while keeping the gods of filmdom appeased? What do they want? Sometimes I wonder why some of these film ever get made. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2548 | 9/27/02 | I am in the process of optioning rights to a book. The author's agent agreed to 1500 USD for the first year and 750 next; they are waiting for my proposed purchase price. The film is WWII at sea with explosions. As this is my first script and optioning I'm not sure what percentage and floor and ceiling prices to suggest. Or maybe a flat fee instead? Any tips? Thanks... | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2540 | 9/25/02 | Most guides suggest that your hero will encounter an antagonist or opposition character. I've watched several mainstream movies where I dont' really see a major antagonist. Does this character always have to be a major character? An example would be TOOTSIE. Is Dabney Coleman the Antagonist? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2536 | 9/24/02 | What is the average fee for a first time spec script with or without an option first? Is the offer a percentage of the budget or is an offer maintained by strict WGA rules? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2532 | 9/23/02 | What is the difference between Drama and Tragedy? How many genres are there-there seems to be a from 5 to 15 , depending on which book you read. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2519 | 9/20/02 | A general question you might not be able to answer. How do I break through the maddening catch-22 problem? Producers often aren't interested in your work if you don't have representation, and agents aren't interested if you don't have sales or publications. Any advice would be appreciated. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2511 | 9/19/02 | my script contains a scene where flashes of separate characters are shown in quick succesion,and they are in different places. what is the technical term for this on a script?instead of cut to, cut to, cut to, etc. thanks, james. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2500 | 9/17/02 | Do you have any advice about writing dialogue? How do I avoid "on the nose" dialogue? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2495 | 9/15/02 | Can you please explain "theme" and it's importance to the screenplay. All the books out there seem to have conflicting views about it, and its importance. (citing examples would be helpful, too) | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2477 | 9/6/02 | Sir, I have a situation, my protagonist and antagonist are in the forest but in different places (nothing specific about place). so is it ok to write more than one CUT TO: in one scene? thanks for the time, Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2475 | 9/5/02 | I self-published a novel earlier this year, and would like to find an agent to option the movie rights. Where can I find a list of agents who handle this kind of project? Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2468 | 9/4/02 | I have been told my adventure novel would make a great movie. Can I submit the novel to a film movie maker (like MGM) and expect to have it reviewed a posible movie plot? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2461 | 9/4/02 | If the Bill Pullman character is the antagonist in Sleepless in Seattle, does that mean that the antagonist(the opposition) does not have to have a big role in the script? Another example would be Good Will Hunting where the teacher is the antagonist in a relatively small role. Notting Hill, same thing.. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2451 | 9/2/02 | Who is the antagonist in Sleepless in Seattle? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2448 | 9/1/02 | Are there any scriptwriting excercizes out there that are offered on line free? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2442 | 8/30/02 | I have several interesting ideas for movies; however, I have no idea how to present my ideas to people in the movie industry. Would you please recommend a basic beginners books about the art of screenwriting? Thank you for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2438 | 8/29/02 | I am writing a spec screenplay based on an existing work. I have been trying to find out if anyone owns the rights or has an option but the publishers will not respond. Is there some kind of resource that might list which properties have been optioned and by whom? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2421 | 8/23/02 | Hi Am from Uganda,Iwant to start making movies and TV documentaries. But i have a big problem, I have failed to find a right team to work with. I want to make a True story movie called Mother's Cry. Please Gramham, work with me or find me the right people to work with. Please your help will me highly appreciated. God Bless You. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2414 | 8/21/02 | Hi Graham - If the manager of an actor I think might be interested in my screen play also has a production company, should I query this man at both places? Thanks for your assistance. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2406 | 8/19/02 | One of the previous questions was from a person saying they pitched a producer at a big studio. I thought it was a no-no to pitch the big dogs yourself, and the pitch will most likely be sent back unopened or thrown in the trash. I know it’s probably better to leave this to an agent, but is there any way you can successfully pitch the big studios while you’re still trying to gain representation? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2396 | 8/17/02 | I am writing a sequel to movie that premiered over a decade ago. The movie did very well by the numbers. As an unrepresented writer, are sequel specs a good thing to take on? If so, what credits are due to the original? Thanks Graham. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2393 | 8/17/02 | Hi, my names Billy Rankis... And I wrote this stupid funny - pot smoking - getting chased by two thugs and a pimp - date movie. I do know that alot of people won't like it... But, I also know that alot will. "What do i do, or where do I go?" Please help me... Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2392 | 8/17/02 | I recently became related to an experienced actor with A-list contacts. I’ve spoken briefly a few times with this new relative, but I could hardly say I know him well. I’m sure one call to "another" relative and my script would be in his hands, but I don't want him feeling pressured into reading my script because he’s now related to "Joe-Shmo" who writes scripts. Do you think using this contact now would be premature? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2363 | 8/14/02 | Hi Graham. I recently began writing a script for an idea I've had for awhile. When I began outlining the story, I broke it down into five separate acts, with the climax in act three (similar to Shakespearean plays). I've read that movies should be broken into three acts? How much will this affect my movie? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2342 | 8/9/02 | Graham, I'm confused about the proper format for a comedy treatment. Should I use the action paragraphs with limited dialogue or just write a brief synopsis? Also, what is the acceptable length for a comedy treatment? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2340 | 8/9/02 | Hello Graham! As a first time writer, the story that I am writing is a true story! However, I have to make the story ficticious as there are circumstances that I cannot explain. My question to you is,,, when writing about historical events such as Nazi Germany, how does one write, when using film footage from the holocaust? I thank you for your response to my question? Mrs. Hawse | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2328 | 8/5/02 | Hi Graham. I'm struggling with my script. I always start off brilliantly, but about half way i get stuck. I dont feel im going in the right direction etc, and i cant think of scenes to fill to the end. I dont want to bore people in the middle. thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2315 | 8/5/02 | I have written a 146 page screenplay. It is based on actual real life events. I have contacted several producers and agents, and was wondering what the going rate is if someone were to purchase my rights to the story and the screenplay. Any advice on what I should ask for such as royalties, etc. Help!! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2311 | 8/5/02 | In trying to negotiate a free option with a relative of a deceased person you want to write about, do you need a lawyer or a specific type of legal document? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2299 | 8/2/02 | I was wondering what exactly does "no money upfront" mean when somebody states this in an ad looking for scripts. Does this mean your compensation is based on some backend deal assuming the movie is successful enough to warrant writer pay, or is this just a clever way of conveying the point that there is no pay for the writer whatsoever? Is it worth pitching to a person/company offering no money upfront? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2294 | 7/30/02 | In adapting a biography of a deceased person for a screenplay, is it advisable to try to interview family members? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2282 | 7/22/02 | Graham, I've read several scripts and have noticed that some are single spaced after a period while others are double spaced. Which is correct? Thanks, Kris | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2253 | 7/13/02 | I’ve been checking out television pilot contests, and a number of them have pilot submissions must consist of a "presentation," "prospectus," or "leave behind” written in the rules. What does all of that mean? Are those just fancy words for a treatment? Thanks. P.S. As a screenwriter, what’s your position on free scripts posted on the internet? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2252 | 7/12/02 | Mr. Flashner, Is it in bad taste to send a producer a spec script for his show? (ex: If I wrote a script for Mysterious Ways, should I send it to one of the producers?) Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2251 | 7/12/02 | I recently licensed the rights to a childrens TV show. It has been in re runs for the last 18 months. It is established and the distribution of the show has been obtained. How do I go about financing prodution? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2247 | 7/10/02 | Graham, Is it legal to register or copyright specs for TV? I have a few written and want to put them on a review site, but I’m scared someone might rip off the ideas. Is there someway to protect them? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2244 | 7/9/02 | Graham, I had placed a logline on this server. A produced contact me last week, and today asked me to submit the owrk to him with a signed release form. Is there some kind of standard relase form which limits what they can do with it? Where can one obtain the release forms? thanks, Bill | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2239 | 7/7/02 | Hello. I have an opportunity this August to present story pitches at a writers' conference. I won't have a complete draft screen/teleplay by then. I hope these sessions can give me expert feedback and direction. Any advice on the best way to preface my pitches to convey that my work is incomplete but not shut down possible interest? Thank you. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2238 | 7/7/02 | Sir, I have read a lot of articles on the net about "writing from inside out". What does "writing from inside out" really mean? Can you please explain it to me? thanks for taking time, Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2224 | 6/30/02 | Hello, Do you think a screenwriter who has several scripts being read via the email routine is suffice? or would you recommend a phone call from the screenwriter to the potential buyer as part of a more professional approach in the dealmaking and getting the scripts read phase? Thank you, S. Houston | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2223 | 6/29/02 | I am writing a miliary based screenplay based on true events and a book based on these events. Some facts are unique to the book through its author's research; others I can replicate through more general sources. To avoid attaining rights to the book, can I access these through public domains to do so or do I need to fictionalize the facts? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2221 | 6/28/02 | I’m not sure if you can answer this or not, but do you know anything about breaking into writing drama teleplays? I know that you can write spec scripts for sitcoms and send them into agents, but can you do the same thing with hour long dramas? What if they have continuous storylines like Six Feet Under? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2216 | 6/28/02 | I am in the very begining stages of writing a war drama. The problem is I just learned that Dreamworks is currently working on a project to be released in 2003 that is VERY similiar to my story. Should I move on to something else, or is there a chance that could still be optioned, despite Dreamworks soon to be movie? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2213 | 6/27/02 | I have been told by a professor that it is not a good idea to describe a character in my script as being like a real-life star. For example to say "GEORGE (60) a Deniro type, older man." Is this true? Thank you for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2212 | 6/27/02 | I don't really have a sense as to how to present action (i.e. fight scenes, chases, etc.). Now assuming one minute per page, for a minute long fight scene the implication is that I should write details about the fight that amount to one page. Am I correct in this logic or should the screenwriter simply say there is a fight and leave the rest to a choreographer? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2204 | 6/25/02 | Hi, About how many screenplays do you think someone should write before they start getting good? Oliver Stone wrote twelve screenplays before he sold Scarface, then again Ben Affleck and Matt Damon only wrote one. How many did you write before you finally sold yours? Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2181 | 6/20/02 | Dear Mr. Flashner, I just turned 13 and I am writing a movie. I think it is a very good movie but I don't have any money to enter it into a contest. Do you know of any free movie contests. Thank You, Mike Uehlein | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2175 | 6/18/02 | HI!,Its dizzy lizzi! I'll keep it short and sweet like me!lol. Thanx for replying, ive got a directory of agencies in my address book and as soon as the scripts finished i'll send out a synopsis or 50! I have the beatles greatest hits!!You never forget the classics right? I hope people feel like that about my film, optimism at an all time high! Thanx again! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2148 | 6/9/02 | Mr. Flashner, Thank you for answering my other question. I was just wondering if a person could write a script and be allowed to star in the movie or if there is a rule against it. Also, I wanted to know if you had to have an agent or could you just contact a production company? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2146 | 6/8/02 | Mr. Flashner Does double spacing your script affect how long the actual film will be? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2145 | 6/8/02 | I have several problems with my screenplay. #1..I'm 15, and I read somewhere that minors can't sign legal contracts, so does that mean I can't sell my screenplay until I'm a legal adult? #2..My screenplay stops at 90 pages, but the sequel I wrote stops dead at 68. Do I come up with an artful way of combining them, or a way of extending each? Thank you for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2138 | 6/6/02 | Hi, Graham. I have a small wonder about SASE's. You see I was meaning to send about 20 query letters, however with SASE included that's 40 stamps. Figuring that SASE's are mostly rejections, is it ok if I not include them and just have my phone number and e-mail address? Will a company reject me because of this? Thanks a bunch! Lastly, what does "O.S." stand for? Thanks again! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2124 | 6/4/02 | Mr. Flashner, If a new writer writes an excellent treatment that catches the interest of a Producer, would the Producer ask the writer to write the screenplay? If yes, would it damage the career of the writer if he tells the Producer that he would not do the screenplay justice - at this time. Thanks - Kimberli (P.S. - Thanks for taking the time to help us. It is greatly appreciated!) | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2123 | 6/4/02 | Dear Graham, I'm a newbbie at screenwriting and I think I could put my ideas down a little better if I knew what a screenplay or script looks like. Are there any sites that can help me with this? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2122 | 6/3/02 | Dear Graham: My question is in regards to submissions. I find that all the "big" agents work for the big companies like "William Morris" or "Endeavor," but I am a first time writer will these agencies even consider someone like me? Where can I find one good (low-key)agent that will read my script -- that can sell it? thanks!! Also, if I send them a query (the big companies) will they actually open my envelope? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2118 | 5/28/02 | Hi, I have written a few screenplays, but they’re not really “high concept”. I’m wondering how I would go about selling them to foreign market? I’m told that a lot of foreign countries are really interested in American screenplays, and that they’re usually a lot faster about getting it made. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2117 | 5/28/02 | Dear Sir, We are a writing partnership who has written several completed scripts with lots of interest from companies in L.A. to see them but we can never seem to make the transition to a sale and we are struggling to find an agent for our work which we hope to come to America and sell. Please advise on further. Yours Gratefully. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2112 | 5/24/02 | I would like to write an adapted screenplay based on book; how do I go about getting the film rights? Also, due the content of the book, I think I would have a much better chance at a cable network(HBO, Showtime, MAX) then a major studio, how do I go about doing that? Does the same rules apply? Thank you for your time | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2110 | 5/23/02 | I have completed my first screenplay and have had coverage written on it. It received a "consider." I rewrote parts of it, resubmitted it, and am currently waiting for the second coverage. When do you recommend I stop revising and start pursuing the sale of the script? It is an off-beat comedy, and I'm not sure anybody will give it a "recommend." Thanks for your help. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2108 | 5/23/02 | How do I find out who owns rights to an old movie/book? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2106 | 5/23/02 | im confused, again. do you send query's about your script to agents for them to consider representing you, or for them to read your script?? Also, when sending queries to production companies how do you know who to address them to, there are no names on the list.Please answer this, thatnx alot! l | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2104 | 5/22/02 | hi! im currently writing a script which i really want to send to producers, the only problem is the agent.I havent got one.So, i was stupidly wondering, could a parent be your agent, and do you know where or if they would need to register and do they need to have been through law school?Thanx for taking the time! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2092 | 5/17/02 | i have a couple of scripts. i am from india & i don't know how to sell them. whether i will get the rewards if my story is selected. what will they pay. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2080 | 5/13/02 | In general, what % does an agent take and what % does a manager take? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2077 | 5/11/02 | Hello. I wanted to make one of my characters in my script "rough" and "edgy" and the approach I took was to add a couple of foul one-liners to give him the "bad" touch I wanted -- I'd say I used the word about 6 times. However, do agents or producers dismiss profanity? Or should I go more conservative? What do you think? -- Thanks! | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2076 | 5/11/02 | Hello. I have a question that kinda has me stuck, do you know how the screenplay binding thing works? I mean, what is the best way to bind a screenplay together? Are you suppose to bind them without those thick folders that hold like 300 pages? If not, how can I hold all 120 pages of my scripts together? Professionally? Thank you for being so cool to answer this question. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2071 | 5/8/02 | My script is at 93 pages. I am very comfortable with it and I do not want to put anything more into it that does not belong. My story is a drama and I have read for that genre; the script should be around 105 pages. Should I look to add more? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2069 | 5/7/02 | Hi! I have a very brief question to ask, do you know what the standard font style is for all screenplays?? -- I read somewhere that it was courier, and others that it was courier new? Also what size should you do the fonts? I'm not really sure. Thank you for taking the time to read and answer my question. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2060 | 5/5/02 | Mr. Flashner, I'm sure you've heard the phrases, "on the nose" - "off the nose" - "too on the nose". What does this mean and can you give an example? From what I hear, it's not a good thing to do. Thanks - Kimberli | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2046 | 4/30/02 | If I want to write a screenplay based on a novel where the author is living, what sort of permission do I need? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2022 | 4/21/02 | Hi there, does FADE IN refere to teh picture or the sound? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2020 | 4/20/02 | I have a professional name that I go by in broadcasting and would like to use this name in my writing as well. Can I query and correspond with this name, or do I need to use my legal name? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2019 | 4/20/02 | Mr. Flashner - After "FADE OUT" has been typed and rewriting is about to commence, can you suggest some "checklist" type questions? (i.e. - check punctuation, is there a subplot, is there a hook...) Your input is greatly appreciated. Thanks. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2018 | 4/20/02 | I have a (happy?) dilemma: I just pitched a feature comedy to a certain exec. He absolutely LOVED the storyline, wants to know when he can read the script, the rub is - he's looking for TV. I don't know, I imagined sprawling shots, A-listers in the leads... it's just hard to think it will be broken down into 7 acts, plus never premiere in any theatre... :) Advice please? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 2013 | 4/19/02 | I've had reply to my query letters saying that we do not read or consider unsolicited work. If i place a release form with it would they read the letter. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1995 | 4/12/02 | I have one character that lives in the city and one that lives on a boat on a lake out side the city. So can I get away with just describing the two places? Or do I have to have specific places, specific states? Thank you so much for your time. :-) | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1990 | 4/10/02 | Thank you for your time, my questions is: When you wnat to show what a digital readout, or a piece of paper says on screen, how do you write that in the screenplay? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1981 | 4/8/02 | I recently sent my script to a consultant and they suggested I make a change that I am not sure about. I was told not to skip a space between the characters name and the dialog. Is this the new standard in Hollywood? Before writing my script I read The Screenwriters Bible and The Screenwriter’s Workbook and they explained that you should have that space. Which is correct? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1971 | 4/5/02 | DO you know of any companies (such as writemovies.com) who offer screenplay consultation for screenplays in foreign languages? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1966 | 4/3/02 | Sir, I have a sequence in which a flashback takes place in another flashback ( i.e flashback #2 in flashback #1 ) How do I write this in a screenplay? thanks for taking time, warm regards, Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1924 | 3/24/02 | Hi, I have a friend who lives in britain and I live in the US. He has published 2 books, the first has been made into hardbound. He wants me to make a screenplay of the movie. What aspects of partnership, rights, etc. go into something like that? Are there any good sites or books that give info on rules/concepts of turning a book into a screenplay? thanks, craig | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1920 | 3/23/02 | I have a script that I would like to pitch - however, I am not sure who to approach, since it is of a fairly specific, unusual genre. I would liken it to "Gladiator", as it is set in the Roman era -- do you have any advice on how I might go about pitching this spec script with the right people who are interested in historical-fiction films like "Gladiator"? Thanks so much for the advice. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1905 | 3/18/02 | I have and idea for and African American movie with a universal appeal.I have a treatment for it but not a script.I am not looking to make money from this.How do I get in to pitch this idea to someone?I have had and interest in it,but it is not the kind of movie they make.Can you direct me the right way? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1883 | 3/11/02 | how many years of experience did you have until you made your first sale? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1863 | 3/7/02 | Re#1860, Sir, I am sorry I wasn't clear to you. Characters are Indians and speak English (just like the chinese movies made in English). Would this screenplay be eligible for US contests? thanks for once again taking time, Warm regards, Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1860 | 3/7/02 | Sir , Iam from India. I've completed the 5th draft of my screenplay. I want to send it to screenplay contests. I did buy some books on American English and change the descriptive text to American. I want to know whether the dialogs must be Indian or American (characters are Indians). warm regards, Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1857 | 3/3/02 | hi, i am currently writing my first screenplay.My question is,that im afraid my script may fall short as far as how many pages i have writen.I will probably write around between 115-125 pages is that enough?I understand that 1 page of script equals 1 minute of film?is that true?But thats what im shooting for anyway,im not sure if i have enough. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1849 | 3/1/02 | Sir , What is a narrative story ? Thanks for taking time , Warm regards Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1844 | 2/27/02 | Do you write an Animation Script with the same format as you write a regular feature/movie script? If not, what primarily is the difference? Thanks | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1838 | 2/23/02 | Hi, I’m really interested in writing a screenplay that has multiple character shorelines, a kind of “Magnolia” type of thing. Where do I even begin? Do I treat each story as if it were it’s own screenplay while I map out it’s plot points? Thanks for your time. | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1827 | 2/17/02 | i have written a ten page treatment for a feature film. i am looking for a writer to work with me on the screenplay. what do you recommend? and, are there any specific directories or publishings i can review to find which writer may be best suited for my material? any other thoughts? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1820 | 2/14/02 | In the last eight weeks I have sent in about 13 scripts as requested in response to my e-mail query letters(about 40) I have heard back from only one of the recipients thus far. (pass) Perhaps I am a better pitchman than writer. What is a reasonable amount of time to give a producer or agent to read and make a decision on a script that they have requested? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1805 | 2/6/02 | I'm wondering about 'ensemble' script. What makes them so? And is it acceptable to class the script as such in a treatment? Thanks in advance for any help. Barbara | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1801 | 2/5/02 | Sir , A Character speaks to a> himself & b> himself in his mind . How to I write this in a screenplay ? thanks for taking time , warm regards , Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1800 | 2/5/02 | If you have a great story for a movie, where do you begin--what are the first steps to take, what form should the story be in (script vs. short story), how do you protect the story idea? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1799 | 2/5/02 | A producer wants to read a script of mines, he assures me that there is no money upfront, only an option deal which is paid out two weeks after the deal is set up. What does "until the deal is set up mean?" And how long does that usually take, and how much power does an executive producer has to push a script to production? | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1781 | 1/26/02 | Sir , What is a double spaced page ? Thanks for taking time , warm regards , Gururaj | Graham Flashner |
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| # 1778 | 1/24/02 | I have been looking on the net for a long time making |
