Hi, I consider myself a content curator in mixed media. So I am experienced but new to film. Here is my dilemma. I had an idea for a screenplay but didn't want to take the time to learn how to write one because I am not planning on it being my professional vocation. So I wrote out my screenplay idea in the form of a book. Now I am stuck moving it forward even though I have successfully written it out. Is it possible to sell this idea to other professionals that recognizes it's potential as a screenplay and or tv series and if so how is the best way to do it (can't really pitch it as is)?? The topic / subject matter is banging and original.
On Writing : Newbie Needing Advice by Jon Hanzen
Other topics in Authoring & Playwriting:
Check out Trending Discussions
Register / Log In
2 people like this
You can have a screen writer convert it into a script.
2 people like this
Email me at gregorj3 at gmail dot com. I'm going through the same process. I have an agent.
2 people like this
Like it's been said many times, here and elsewhere in the biz - everybody has ideas. They're like opinions or...you know...a certain body part.
Value comes from execution. If, perhaps, the story is compelling and you've written it well, someone might, possibly, buy it (not a lot of money). If you take the time and effort to write a killer screenplay, there's more value there and somebody might buy it (more money).
But, the bottom line is, everybody's got their own ideas, concepts, passion projects - and are working diligently to write them. The chances of somebody having the time and interest in your idea (over their own) are very, very, very slim.
If you think this idea is wonderful, you need to write it yourself.
1 person likes this
Thnx for the feedback. :-)
3 people like this
It's worth noting that the difference between a novel and a screenplay is much more than just format. The pacing of the structure is quite different as well. If you get a chance, I would recommend both a webinar to help give you more information generally, and a script service to give you feedback on your idea specifically.
This is the definitive webinar on "How to Adapt Your Book into a Film or Series": https://www.stage32.com/webinars/How-to-Adapt-a-Novel-Into-a-Film-or-Series
This is our Adaptation Review service so you can get a feel for how this novelization can be best adapted: https://www.stage32.com/scriptservices/coverage/buy?id=66&affid=mjm
1 person likes this
Write to me at gregorj3 at gmail dot com. I'm going through the same process, and I provide free advice.
1 person likes this
Jon Hanzen is it cinematic?
Does the action on the page translate clearly to a consistent rhythm of movement, action, conveyance, travel and kinetic situations and relationships on screen?
Is it structured like a movie in clear sequences with coherence and verve?
I looked at adapting a book for a college professor that was his fourth novel and quite entertaining but at a glance it unfolded as mostly description and dialogue; a slow-moving story that would simply not make good cinema.
Without strategic structure and cinematic thrust and compelling visual drama and scenarios, it prolly ain't gonna happen.
Maybe consider hiring a writer / consultant who works in that field to give you a straight preliminary assessment?
Been non-professional scriptwriter for 20+ years. I see no excuse venturing into new formats and knowledges just because of vocation direction. If you don't see your story as a movie, that's one thing, but if you do, no better way than presenting it it's most suitable format.