I wanted to ask the lounge a question on finding a screenwriting mentor. I have done some in the past and found them to be incredibly helpful. I can reach out to my previous mentor (and fully plan on it) but I still wanted to get everyone's opinions.
Does anyone have any tips on finding the right mentor? I know networking is a great tool, but that is sometimes sort of generic. Networking through film festivals? Etc... I know some of the bigger script coverage sites also offer some mentorships.
I'm also not necessarily referring to free mentorship. Time, energy and education cost money and I completely understand that.
Thanks in advance!
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I worked with the Jacob Krueger Studio out of Manhattan for 2 years. They work remotely, and I met with my coach every two weeks via Skype. It was worth every penny, investing in a writing coach. There's nothing like being able to ask an optioned screenwriter face-to-face about characters, arcs, and storylines. I always had absolute clarity working one-on-one with someone.
https://www.stage32.com/blog/Do-You-Need-a-Writing-Coach-5-Reasons-Why-Y...
Yeah Kay, I'm slowly transitioning full time into the industry. Soon it will be time to get some on the ground work, start from the bottom. Personally I found mentoring incredibly helpful. I feel like I saved myself 6-8 months of sifting through books and knowledge simply by being able to turn to someone into the industry. It was worth every penny.
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if you aim to get a mentor with moderate success over someone with huge success you could have more luck.
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James - I think you've answered your own question - you need to invest time, effort and diligence in the process and that includes a little money for your education. If you decided to be an Geologist, you'd go to geology school, a Doctor, you'd go to doctoring school...on & on. It's your career, is it worth a couple of bucks to you?
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Hi @James Both public and private pitches at Screenwriting festivals can reap results. Obviously people can pay for masterclasses etc but the more you get yourself out there, the better the chance of finding a mentor who is right for you. Even a mentor who spots your talent.
Thank you so much for the feedback everyone. I really appreciate it. I intend to look more into pitching at festivals and or pitch festivals themselves. It is worth many bucks to me as well haha. Just not interested in going through a full film school program, so trying to discover less traditional routes.
James, feel free to reach out via message here on Stage 32 and perhaps we can set up a conversation. Also, please do your homework on me and check out my IMDb page and career track record. ;) GOD BLESS and STAY FRESH! ;) ;)
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HEY James, last time I mentioned my Mentorship program at No BullScript i got yelled at, BUT ive had a pretty good success rate and would be happy chat with you about it. feel free to email me, its a 5 month program but im still working with most of my writers long after it's over. good luck!
Happy to talk about mentorship with you, James. Feel free to message me or contact me via: www.philmscribe.com
Nice to know Danny.