I have my first pilot in the drawer. I'm reading around the interwebs that newbie screenwriters should have two or three projects done before they start submitting to workshops and contests. Is that true? Should I stop writing the subsequent episodes for the pilot and focus on something completely different? A different genre for example?
Also, something completely off topic, does stage 32 have an app?
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I suggest having 2-3 projects in your portfolio before submitting to producers, contests, etc., Kyle Eidson.
I have different genres in my portfolio, but most of them are Horror and Action. I also have different things in my portfolio (feature scripts, short scripts, TV shows, commercials, and skits).
You usually only need a pilot script and a series bible for a TV series.
Stage 32 has a phone app (www.stage32.com/app).
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You have a bad advice source if you're being encouraged to go down the competition route.
You absolutely should not be writing TV episodes. Some showrunners don't even want to see a pilot. What's critical is the bible. If they like the concept, they'll bring it in house and give it to the writing team.
Nobody should really be running around town with just one script to their name. A portfolio suggests that a writer has had the time and experience to hone their craft and voice (although not always the case).
Now is really the time to study the craft (from trusted sources) and apply it what you have,
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Two very diffirent takes hence my dilemma.
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I'll say this. If it lives in the drawer, it may never see the light of day. Every time I submit for something I learn. It's about progress not perfection!
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Is it a good script? Are you sure? Have you polished it? First, I would ask 4-5 buddies to read it. Not just any buddies, but people that know screenwriting. Get their feedback and don't listen to them. They will all have different opinions. But if all of them say "Don't kill Grandma, then you might want to listen to them.
Next, don't wait for two or three more scripts to sit on. Get your script out there to competitions. Pay for feedback if reasonably priced. Pay for a couple of readers to give you notes. Make sure you copyright it. Getting feedback is important.
I am consulting on a film this guy is making, His script has potential, but is bland, lacks payoffs. He starts filming soon and I already know it will not be a good film. The script is the cheapest portion to fix. All it takes is sweat and nimble fingers. Really hone your script.