A few years back, I wrote a list called Fourteen Things You Should Know About Screenwriting.
https://www.stage32.com/lounge/screenwriting/Fourteen-Things-You-Should-...
The third thing on the lists says:
Learn to suck up constant rejection. Never spend more than a few hours wallowing in rejection or failure. Remember, opinions are like assholes, everyone has one. With each setback, learn how to sally forth with renewed vigor.
I just got an email back from my longtime friend/producer who had managed to get two of my comedy scripts into an extremely well known production company with several successful television shows under their belt. They passed on both scripts and even though I have several other projects being read by other companies, this one is particularly painful because the reader said "I didn't connect with Phillip's writing. Ouch! But then I realized I was damn lucky to even get in the door at this place and have them take the time to read two screenplays. I also thought about Matthew Weiner shopping Madmen for nearly seven years before finding a buyer.
So I'm been wallowing for a few hours and how I'm starting the sally forth with renewed vigor stage.
2 people like this
Getting read is half the battle.
2 people like this
Rejection is never fun but you learn from it if you can. Not wallowing is also a wise move. Good luck on the next one.
1 person likes this
Scott: Definitely half. I'm always pleased to get a script request. Thanks for your post. '
Nina: Thanks. My rep had tried several times to get these folks to read a script from me and other writers. So getting up to bat was a milestone.
Dan G: Some of the weirdest responses I've received have been from people with big outfits. Definitely take 'em with a grain.
2 people like this
I'm watching the new doco on Netflix about Garth Brooks. As you surely know, he ended up being the biggest-selling solo recording artist of all time. He was rejected by all seven of the major labels when he did the rounds with his recording of "The Dance". That song eventually went on to be a gimongous hit for him. Go figure, hey.
1 person likes this
At my age, script rejection doesn't phase me at all. What Dan says is true - the vast majority of folk in this industry are indeed nutz...but that's what makes it fun to work with 'em.
Hey Phillip, thanks for sharing.
1 person likes this
Paul and Charmane:
You are most welcome.
This sounds cold, but I go back to basic math -- how many things are written each year for how many spots? Then factor in "established".vs. just breaking in. You can load the dice, but only so much.
Dan MaxXx: I just watched Inside Man for a second time and didn't realize Spike directed the film. What a masterful job he did creating an engaging thriller.