Selling or optioning your script to Hollywood bigs is no easy task and requires a lot of planning on your part. You will need to create a professional proposal that captures the attention of professionals in the creative sector, which includes a creative manifesto. This article offers professional assistance on how to sell your screenplay or story for a film in Hollywood.
Steps
Step 1. Be aware that the underlying concept and story will be bought by the producers, not necessarily the 120 pages of script you wrote
Identify the focus of the story, and how it can be written in a brief summary. This is the tool that will be used to propose your script to the producers.
Step 2. Write a treatment, which outlines the plot and content of your script
It must include the Title, the Channel and the Plot. Treatment is what the Producers will read to determine if your script is a project they want to read in full, and / or purchase. It's essentially your marketing tool, and arguably the most important piece in selling your script.
Step 3. The titles say it all
A great title stimulates the imagination, and suggests what the film is about. A brilliant distortion of a familiar phrase, such as "Meet my parents" is full of expectation. We learn of the inherent drama, conflict or trepidation of meeting the parents of a boyfriend / girlfriend, and our imagination begins to build possible scenarios. Very sharp or direct stocks work in turn. "Matrix" or "The beach" are very direct titles that lead us to want to know "what is that world or that story about?". Screenplays that explore character studies, such as “Forrest Gump,” are unique in their story and character. The reader and the public will want to find out what it is.
Step 4. Regardless of the title and story, the most important element in the script proposal is the Canaletta
This is the short speech. A sentence or two describing the basic concept, and the elements that make your story unique. This is what the Producers will read to decide whether to take the time to read the entire script, as well as to understand if the text is salable to production companies.
Step 5. A detailed synopsis of your script should be 3 to 7 pages long, and illustrate the key points of your story
Focus on your protagonist's exploits, as well as defining the 3 main acts. The "First Act" usually presents the particular circumstances that give way to our story and the path of the characters. The "Second Act" is divided into two minor acts (a, b). 2-a accelerates the challenges the protagonist faces as the various plots unfold. 2-b usually brings a surprise conflict or obstacle to overcome. This is the "twist" that could jeopardize your characters' plans, and complicate them so much that they are compelling and interesting to watch. The "Third Act" solves the plot and the adventures of the characters. The most common themes are redemption, revenge, the confirmation of love, victory or acceptance.
Step 6. Protect your works
Before proposing your script by sending its processing to producers or agents, make sure you have proof of the creation of your story. You can consult online registers to obtain signed archives and digital signatures for your works. When you propose your project, record the movements by keeping emails, faxes, or shipping receipts to anyone who has requested your material. Consider using professional online marketplaces that offer electronic surveillance recordings by carefully selected companies that keep new scripts and projects in secure databases.
Step 7. Propose your script
Research film producers and companies that produce films of the same genre as your screenplay. Sites like The Internet Movie Database are great tools for comparing companies and insiders. Target those specific companies and ask for permission to propose your idea. You can even find help on Craigslist. Use all marketing tools to gain exposure to established companies. Film industry events, such as the “TV / Film Rights Marketplace,” are great opportunities to sell scripts and creative ideas to the big boys in the field.
Step 8. Get your work recognized
Screenwriting contests are great ways to increase your exposure. Many producers choose new designs from among the winners, or many competitions offer agreements with producers.
