Screenwriting : The Real Scoop on Getting Representation? by Greg Rabidoux

Film Director, Screenwriter at Valmar Films LLC ♦ Director, Screenwriter, Actor, Documentary Filmmaker

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2 months ago

The Real Scoop on Getting Representation?

So, for a few months now, in between working on scripts and telling my character voices to let me be for a moment so I can work on the "business side" of things, I've been trying to figure out how best to get representation. I've been watching webinars, taking sessions, generally making a nuisance of myself with some network folks but can't seem to really get the real scoop. It could just be me, but lots of content seems to go something like "okay, so, here's the best way to manage your manager, or elling me what the key differences are between manager and agent or producer, or red flags when I sign up with one, etc., but what I really would love is how do you truly connect with say an Agent when, like myself, I am not yet known? Anyways, one of my characters is calling so I need to finish their scene, but I am really open to any sound, practical advice here! Many thanks fellow Stage32 enthusiasts!

Cameron Tendaji

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3 people like this
2 months ago

Agents and managers only want to rep people with buzz. You can write 1000’s of scripts and be the best writer on the planet but if they don’t think you can make them money they’re going to keep making excuses such as: “you’re a great writer but.. insert arbitrary excuse here that you have no control over”

I didn’t get a manager until I already had several shopping agreements with producers. And a project with two actors and a director attached.

Cameron Tendaji

2
2 people like this
- Leonardo Ramirez
- Maurice Vaughan
2 months ago

It’s hard not to take it personal too. Because you’ll get so many compliments on your writing, and your ideas, and your scripts but you’ll hear so many excuses from people and be gaslit into believing you aren’t good enough. When really most of the time the no’s come from insecurity and fear

Maurice Vaughan

1
1 person likes this
- Jim Boston
2 months ago

Hey, Greg Rabidoux. The biggest tip I always give writers is network/build relationships (on Stage 32, on other platforms, and in person). It could lead to script requests, meeting requests, etc. It could even lead to someone telling a manager or agent about you and your work.

Here are some blogs that could help you network: www.stage32.com/blog/tags/networking-41

And here's a post with networking tips I made a week ago: www.stage32.com/lounge/anything_goes/Networking-Tips-2

You could enter a Stage 32 contest (www.stage32.com/scriptservices/contests). If you win a contest or place as a Finalist, Stage 32 will send your work to agents and literary managers who are seeking new talent. If you don't see contests that fit your projects, keep an eye on the Contest Page. Stage 32 will be adding more contests.

You could also search for industry professionals in the Browse Members section (www.stage32.com/people) and IMDbPro (https://pro.imdb.com/signup/index.html) to network with and pitch to.

Cameron Tendaji