Producing : Pitching a script verses shooting it as a shoestring budget film by Jesse James Brooks Jr.

Jesse James Brooks Jr.

Pitching a script verses shooting it as a shoestring budget film

I'm looking for thoughts on the merits of a screenwriter shooting a shoestring budget film vrs just pitching the script.

Jack Binder

Hey Jesse, Good question. Depends on your goals of course: if you're aiming to sell the script, produce it, direct it, etc. I think its great to go shoot a film if you can to do it and build a reel. If a script sale is what you're looking for, while you're executing that plan in the meantime go and shoot a video teaser of the material, rather than a shoestring film, unless you really feel it could break through and get distribution. A teaser trailer could work to both ends. Good luck!

Jesse James Brooks Jr.

Thanks so much Jack! I'm developing a script that has a lot of different undertones, that aren't so UNDER. Its been very difficult to nail down that (one short line) pitch. Will absolutely look into shooting a teaser trailer.

Jack Binder

You're welcome. Yeah, log lines are tough. Try to sum up the story succinctly to convey the main characters story and setting and genre. Keep it simple.

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