There are three excellent ways to get an agent or manager:
1.) The best way is to enter screenplay competitions, do well and get on finalist lists. If you are top 10 or even top 20-30, you might start getting calls for reads. Many breaking writers submit 1-4 scripts a year to these competitions, and those that do well get repped pretty readily. 2.) Another option is to enter live pitch competitions (with real execs -- make sure it's legit) and knock your pitch out of the park. Because you're there in person, it's harder for the development exec or assistant to deny your script -- give a great pitch (assuming it's the type of material they'd be looking for), and you'll likely get asked to submit the script. 3.) Finally, get to know the assistants on the desks of agents or managers. They are the gatekeepers and are often keen to find the "next big writer," so they are more likely to read your script, give feedback, even give you good coverage. If you have good coverage from a reputable agency (especially one of the big ones), you can attach that to your script as "validation" when submitting elsewhere. The best way to meet these assistants? If you're in LA or NY, become an assistant for a year, or go out and be social, or join groups like Women in Film, ISA, Jr. HRTS, etc. If you're not local, join these groups online and be helpful (don't ask for anything at first). Once people get to know you and like you, you'll get opportunities to ask for a read. You can also go to local film festivals, volunteer to be a PA on the set of a local movie, TV series or commercial, go to comic cons and classes -- you never know who you'll meet! If you are asked to sign submission release forms, readily agree. Most won't accept your submission without one. Hope this helps!
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These posts were from the Writers Room in the Legion M Forum. "Screenwriting 101" is written by Nikki Ackerman. Don't know what Legion M is? It's the world's first fan-owned entertainment company. Want to know more? Visit Legion M at legionm.com Archives
January 2021
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