Screen Plays

[Jennifer Gray (Maurine)]

I am not sure if anyone has asked this...but what is the going price for screen plays these days? <BR> <BR>Maurine

[JLR (Dragon)]

5 cents. hehe <BR> <BR>Actually I don't think there is a going price. If it gets sold it's GOING! hehe. <BR> <BR>It really depends on the screenplay. Usually large event screenplays sell for much more, for they will be able to effect a wider range of the populace. Screenplays often sell between 200,000 thousand to even over a million, but this really depends on how well the producer thinks this script will sell to the audiance. Big scripts can often insure big bucks, but as everything else in hollywood this isn't always true.

[Great Taste AND Less Filling! (F_U_N_G_U_S)]

Depends on what someone is willing to pay. a First time screen play would probably go from anywhere from 10k to 100k, depending on 'industry buzz' (ie how good your agent is).

[Katharina Kahler]

Someone told me it is 1,5 % of the production budget.

[sandra danderson]

how do you find an agent who will talk to you if you haven't sold anything? is there any who will read your script and take you if it's good???

["I don't need no stinkin' sash" (F_U_N_G_U_S)]

There are plenty out there! You just need to take a look. I don't know off hand, but I'm sure Josh does! (speaking of the li'l typo devil, where is he?)

[Bodhi]

I am a independent writer.I am looking for someone to help me make one of my screenplays into a movie.If u can help contact me at <A HREF="mailto:inurskyn@yahoo.com">inurskyn@yahoo.com</A>

[Stefan (Auric)]

Maybe we should make a screenwriter's FAQ sometime... :o)

[A shroom by any other name... (F_U_N_G_U_S)]

Um... like what kind of help? Are you just looking for funding and/or crew? Or people to act in the production?

[Christopher Harmon DarkMark Twain]

FILIPINO MARTIAL ARTS SCREENPLAY <BR> <BR>Greetings, Mr. Devlin. I have written a script that you may find interesting. <BR> <BR>Titled, 'REBUILDING THE SOUL', it is not only inspiring, (hence the title)but it also showcases the overlooked beauty of Filipino Martial Arts. <BR> <BR>Everyone knows about kung fu (China), karate (Japan), tae kwon do(Korea); but escrima, kali and arnis (of the Philippines)has yet to be exposed to the world. This is a wonderful vehicle for that. <BR> <BR>Knowing that your mom was Filipina and a trailblazer for her countrymen, perhaps you'd like to look into carrying the torch yourself. It gives insight into the history and present turmoils of the country through the eyes of young man who happens to be half Filipino/half American, and learning the pure fighting skills from the source. <BR> <BR>I'd like to send you a synopsis of this story so that you can look into it further. So far I have a producer interested but nothing is finalized. I have a line producer in the Philippines onboard, a (very well known) casting director on board, and 2 directors who are interested. <BR> <BR>Knowing your track record and expertise in storytelling, if I had a choice, I'd like you to produce it. Due to much of it being shot on the island, costs would be VERY LOW. Not much of a risk factor, as far as the investment, plus you bring pride to a people that haven't had a lot to cheer about lately. <BR> <BR>I have won several writing awards (Chesterfield, Maui, Quantum, Diversity Award) and have been published. If needed, I can get an agent involved. Please e-mail me or call me at 602-862-0355. Thanks for your time. <BR> <BR>Peace <BR>Christopher Harmon aka DarkMark Twain

[Sugar and Spice and everything (F_U_N_G_U_S)]

I'm starting to agree with Stefan... <BR> <BR>Christopher: I'm sure your script is wonderful, but announcing it on a public forum like this isn't the way to go. <BR> <BR>Firstly, a screenplay needs to be copyrighted (recognizably copyrighted in America). <BR> <BR>Secondly, there are actual channels to go thru after that to submit a screenplay. Mr. D doesn't have time to read all the screenplays people throw at him. He has an assistant who reads them (Assistant may be the wrong word, but much of what the guy is hired to do is to weed out good stories from not so good ones and pass on 'possible projects' to Mr. D). <BR> <BR>You have to register your script with the Writers Guild of America, because america is annoyingly (in many cases, not all), unionized. Especially Hollywood (why do you think movies cost so much to make? Union fees!). <BR> <BR>The easiest way I would suggest is to get an agent. Most good agents work on commissions, rather than upfront fees. This gives them motivations to market your script around. Good ones will help you with copyrighting and WGA registration as well, plus, many studios REFUSE to look at any script unless it's submitted by an agent. <BR> <BR>All in all, Good luck my friend.

[Will Finch (Shetan)]

I guess there's two views to everything. Aren't agents unions in themselves? After all, they are negotiating for their clients. I can remember a time getting chewed out for asking for a fan when working in 125 degree heat for hours on end. It would have been nice having someone to negotiate a fan for us. Of course, that particular person is long gone, and I "ain't". Heck, we got free popcicles within days of a union knocking around. I ate 9 one day. I gave myself a $6.05 pay raise that day. (based on a $.75 selling price per popcicle) <BR> It wouldn't surprise me if even Dean was getting union wages when he was driving for Al Pacino!

[Offworld]

Chris, I've come across WSAI posting some thoughts on this list. They're international screenwriting and film production consultants. So, they'd be the best people to help you get things together. <BR> <BR>Industry gossip says they're working with Embryo Films in Australia to create the Screenplay Development Centres in Melbourne and Sydney, and doing Embryo's Development for them. <BR> <BR>I've heard they bend over backwards to help writers get their craft right and get produced. The Screenwriters Guild Association has recommended them, so they must be good. <BR> <BR>I tracked down their web site at: <BR><A HREF="http://www.screenwritersutopia.com/planet/users/wildeprods.html" TARGET="_top">http://www.screenwritersutopia.com/planet/users/wildeprods.html</A>

[Sheri Gordon (Sheri)]

I know them! Err, him, them, whichever it is. <IMG SRC="http://www.electric-ent.com/bbs/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":)"> Right, Mike?

[DarkMark Twain]

Dear Fungus, Offworld and ... <BR>GODZILLA'S POPS (AKA Mr. Devlin) <BR> <BR>Thanks for the advise. I was just taking a gamble tossing this posting out there. I didn't know I had folks watching my back. Thanks for the love. I'll be looking into that website later today. <BR> <BR>One of the services they offer is posting your logline for producers or anyone else to see. Many services make you pay BIG bucks to do so, then you don't know what ya-hoo might be drooling on it. <BR> <BR>I wanted this particular teaser about my script, REBUILDING THE SOUL, to hopefully reach Mr. Devlin's attention because I feel that he, as a Filipino, would be more receptive to looking at a one-page synopsis. The absence of films about Filipino themes is staggering, considering the growing Pinoy population in the States. <BR> <BR>I figured that he might like to REPRESENT and possibly produce a piece that can bring pride to a people whose cinematic stereotypes have been all negative. I think he feels it, would like to do something about it, but didn't have a vehicle to address it. HONK! HONK! Your limo has arrived, sir. <BR> <BR>The martial arts of the Phillipines is not given the spotlight, but is just as dazzling as kung-fu, karate or tae kwan do. This script uses it, to drive the story forward and make each scene, 'Electric'. <BR> <BR>Since it is mostly filmed in the Philippines, he could probably finance this flick with the loose change from his sofa. <BR> <BR>Everything is properly copyrighted, Blessed and baptized and I'd be glad to sign a waiver. What I would like to do i just send in a one-page synopsis, that you could just run by Mr. D, real quick. <BR> <BR>I know things aren't done this way often, but the agent shuffle isn't working for old DarkMark. Please, give a Brother a break, two-minutes to read it, is all it takes. Thumbs up or thumbs down is cool, but I'd really appreciate it if Big Daddy himself could scan it over. <BR> <BR>Much like Spike Lee & John Singleton for Black people, he would have a special PASSION for the story, that will make it appealing to ALL people. Whatcha say? (It will be our little secret!)

[Will Finch (Shetan)]

I like it, but I don't think its a secret anymore, DarkMark. <BR> <BR>While they're at it, maybe they could do one on the plight of the Southern white male. ......from one who once had to put "pacific islander" as race? in order to acquire a loan. <BR> <BR>*not* trying to be a smart A, just hoping the best for you.

[WSAI]

Did someone mention my name or should I go back to sleep? <BR> <BR>Yes Sheri, we are a "them", or I am a "them", I think...? A lot of people are involved; actors, directors, writers, producers, and one retired major studio head, not to mention members (which I won't). <BR> <BR>The temp website has to be updated as three of the HOT LIST have been sold. Most often the best don't have time to be put up on the list as 95% are optioned or sold before I get a chance to. I get screenplay wanted leads mostly direct from prodco's but i do get some from lists like Writers Script Network and Prescott, and pass them onto writers/agents, etc, and I also reverse the flow and pass on (with the writers name and agent) to prodco's are looking for a specific type of story. Among other things... <BR> <BR>Nuff said about that. <BR> <BR>I'm just worried that the audience may be too unaware of Filipino martial arts, as they are of Egyptian Martial arts, or Capioera. Does your script educate them in the setup (act one)? <BR> <BR>.

[Supercalifungilisticexpialidocious (F_U_N_G_U_S)]

Capioera is actually pretty well known. Probably almost as well known as Muy Thai. Of course, they sre still far from being as popular as Gung Fu, Akkaido (or is it Hapkaido? are they two seperate forms?), and even ninjitsu as far as 'movie martial arts' go.

[Sheri Gordon (Sheri)]

Hey Mike....does WSAI take on Canadian members? <IMG SRC="http://www.electric-ent.com/bbs/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":)">

[Supercalifungilisticexpialidocious (F_U_N_G_U_S)]

<FONT SIZE="+2">BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!</FONT> <BR> <BR>Oh, you were serious... <BR> <BR><FONT SIZE="+2">BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!</FONT> <BR> <BR>>;Þ

[Sheri Gordon (Sheri)]

Methinks someone needs to get a life and a job. >:-P

[Supercalifungilisticexpialidocious (F_U_N_G_U_S)]

Oh, I've got work :] (not including P4P. One stinking page, 5 minutes tops. What's taking them so long? :] <BR> <BR>I'm designing tshirts. Just did a skydiving one, am going to be working on a Nascar tee next :]

[Sheri Gordon (Sheri)]

Well, they're a horse farm. It's spring. My guess would be, FOALING SEASON. ;-)

[WSAI]

Don't be too hard on fungus, Sheri. <BR> <BR>Of course we take Canadians... I'll talk to you about it off-line. <BR> <BR>Offworld, how'd you know about the Embryo deal? we're not ready to go public with it yet... and let me know which one you are. (long story) <BR> <BR>Embryo came to Oz to produce, asked for scripts and got... blech. (Sorry, restim' [restimulation] on "He Died With A Filafel In His Hand". Ptah, Ptah. (wipes tongue). Still can't get that bad taste outta my mouth.

[Mike]

Really Important Stuff!! <BR> <BR>A while back the question about submitting to Dean and other Companies came up. Below are the standard rules about submitting. <BR> <BR>Standard Script Submission Policy <BR>1. Some production companies will accept e-mail queries if you prefer this route first. Always better to send it snail-mail. They will notify you within two to four weeks if they want to read it for further investigation. They do not, however, accept internet on-line sites for script evaluation. Once they receive your script it will be another two or four weeks for evaluation and notification. Therefore they highly recommend script submission due to the time it will take you for official notification. But then again, that is your time and your decision. Under no circumstances should you send a script without querying first. To do so would be career suicide. <BR> <BR>Note on writing query letters. Make it strong and definitive. Use your best writing. Spend as much time on this as you would the entire second act of your script. Include a short logline or pitch encapsulating what the story is about. Strong characterization is a must. <BR> <BR>2. Some do not demand Release forms, but it is implied; however, I strongly encourage them as it is an industry standard. It shows a level of professionalism and genuine concern for the production company on your part. Also, if the production company is deciding on a few scripts that are apparently similar in genre, plot and character, they will go with the script that has a Release form with it. <BR> <BR>3. They do not accept synopsis, treatments, or outlines. If you want to make it as a screenwriter, then you must invest the time and sacrifice necessary. Playing it safe by just writing a synopsis or treatment does not cut it. Believe in yourself and give it your best shot. <BR> <BR>4. They do not return scripts. If there is a self-addressed envelope with proper postage, then they may be happy to drop it in the mailbox. <BR> <BR>5. They reserve the express right to mark, cross out, note, or do any other such thing as necessary to allow them to evaluate the script. This is understood and accepted at the time they receive your script. <BR> <BR>6. If a sale is offered: (a) You will receive an evaluation of your script and a letter stating their interest in buying it. (b) In addition, you will receive a phone call informing you of the next few steps, that will include sending you I-9 and W-4 forms. In cases where you may be a writer bought in to fix a script or (in rare cases) the co-writer you may only receive the W-4 form (which is a note of tentative writing credits). At that time you can offer any questions that you may have. <BR> <BR>7. If a sale is not offered: (a) You will receive an evaluation of your script. (b) You will receive a letter stating that either they are not interested at this time… or (c) a letter (Reader’s Report) giving you a list of areas for improvement and a resubmission notice (usually on pink paper) once they have been completed. They will not accept resubmission without this notice. <BR> <BR>Note: Agents very much work the same way (minus a few details), and expect the same consideration, whether you are looking for representation, or already have an agent.

[Sheri Gordon (Sheri)]

Wow, thanks for the great info, Mike! Copied, pasted, saved to memory. <IMG SRC="http://www.electric-ent.com/bbs/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":)">

[Mike, your humble serf]

Production Office Tip #275 <BR>Really bad and unsolicited scripts should be "Emron'd" (shreaded) 'cos they make great packing for boxes, and are more environmentally sound than stirofoam or popcorn.

[Sheri Gordon (Sheri)]

Got any good Production Office Tips for writers trying to find the time in between paying work to actually FINISH a story? heehee I have mine all lined out. Just trying to flesh the script itself now, but arggggh, everyone wants me at the same time. Finish this site here, finish that painting there, help us with this over here....it never ends!!! <BR> <BR>I need to take a week's holiday (HA!) just to be able to have some uninterrupted guilt-free time to finish writing. <IMG SRC="http://www.electric-ent.com/bbs/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":)">

[OVERLORD (F_U_N_G_U_S)]

Start charging OT for those calls? That'll get them off your back and into a more managable timetable right quick :] or at least a few extra bucks for the inconvenience.

[Sheri Gordon (Sheri)]

Nah, I just gotta learn to say NO. NO NO NO NO NOOOOOOOOOO. NO I can't make your website, get in line. NO I don't know why you did that, figure it out for yourself. NO I can't paint your puppy dog. NO NO NO NO NOOOOOO. <BR> <BR>There, that felt better. If only my bank account would say the same thing. ;-) Bills bills bills, got bills to pay.

[OVERLORD (F_U_N_G_U_S)]

Imagine how much money you'd save if you weren't racing... <BR> <BR>(it's like my mom's smoking. She can't figure out how come money comes in, money goes out, and barely even touches her bank account. Gee, it wouldn't have anything to do with the 100+ dollars a month she spends on cigarettes, would it?)

[Sheri Gordon (Sheri)]

Umm...Fungus....racing is the reason why I WANT to EARN extra money. ;-) The bills will always be there every month...utilities, loans, mortgage, et al (well, for most people anyway)....but at least the money I spend on racing is something I get my dollar's worth out of in sheer enjoyment. The rest, pah. It's gone before ya earn it, without any feeling of having spent anything worthwhile.

[Mike]

Sheri, <BR>Keep an eye on your email. You might just get something you can't tell anyone about. <BR> <BR>I hope you read this before the emails otherwise it'll ruin the surprise. (when was your birthday??)

[Mike]

Sheri, <BR>In answer to your question. <BR> <BR>My tip is to set up a little office with a cot in it. (This is the answer to the inevitable question to a writer, "Where do you dream up these stories??") <BR> <BR>Set your goal at writing for four hours a day, or for four perfect pages per day. <BR> <BR>Take your time, if nothing comes within your four-hour work cycle (where no-one is allowed to interrupt you under threat of death), that's okay, too, because the idea will come at the worst possible time, (while you're asleep [hence, the cot], at work, during 'Figure-Eight Demolition Derby'), and put pen to paper, so have both a note-pad and tape recorder on hand at all times. <BR> <BR>We are supposed to be natural observers, and there's a lot of weird stuff and people to observe that will make that baulky scene work - <BR> <BR>Waiters gesticulating in the corner of a restaurant... <BR> <BR>The way guy's look away when a woman is breastfeeding on a bus. And then there's "that" guy.... who was bottle-fed. <BR> <BR>A guy who likes nothing more picking his nose... from a plastic surgeon's display case. <BR> <BR>Pamela Anderson slowly melting in the hot summer sun...

[Sheri Gordon (Sheri)]

ROFL!! Thank you so much for the imagery. I think like that a lot, but rarely have the pen/paper to put it down. Although, there ARE a few napkins and time sheets (from racing) in the car with lots of notes on them already. That's where a lot of my story has come from. <BR> <BR>We'll leave the Pamela Anderson imagining to you men though. <BR> <BR>As for four hours...the problem is I'd be feeling guilty the whole time because I have work waiting to be done. My theory is if I can get it all done and caught up, I can work guilt-free. <IMG SRC="http://www.electric-ent.com/bbs/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":)"> I got myself way overbooked, and the dern stuff keeps coming in. Even just this morning, another lady asked me how much I'd charge to do a portrait of her horse. And knowing me, I'll give her a quote. hehehe <BR> <BR>Guess I'm gonna have to learn how NOT to feel guilty and just say "screw it" and set aside from, say, 9-11pm as MY writing time. I can't get much accomplished, work-wise, in that time frame anyway, and I'm usually in the right state of mind, creatively. <BR> <BR>Tonite would be a good night to start. Race-night at the track, then Cruising afterwards. Anyone want me to get them a milkshake? <IMG SRC="http://www.electric-ent.com/bbs/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":)"> <BR> <BR>(going to check my email now. I LOVE surprises! heehee)

[Mike (Mike)]

FYI... <BR> <BR>Writers Script Newwork will be changing their name to Flick Slinger and their new page will be www.FlickSlinger.com (It is under construction at the moment, so you can still continue to use www.WriterScriptNetwork.com until then).