Erik Handsome Smalls's Lounge Discussions

looks like i hv to move to LA ,

Cool :)

Dan, that's funny. Probably true, but funny.

Dan, the same is in NY.

Dan M:

UNCLE PHIL (age unknown), a ruggedly handsome, charming screenwriter, walks up to the podium at a Beverly Hills AA meeting. Has he no shame?

PHIL:

Hi, I"m Phil, and I'm and alcoholic.

AUDIENCE

(in unison)

Hi Phil

PHIL:

I'm one day sober and ready to take on the world. By the way, are there any literary or talent agents here tonight? I have a couple of scripts in my trunk. There's a nice bar down the block, we can talk shop and throw back a few club sodas.

Uncle, it doesn't quit go like that but I've heard them mention what they do for a living in their qualification. You'd be surprise whose in those meetings. I'll never tell.

Erik: Congratulations on writing your first screenplay. It looks like you adapted it from your own novel. Since this is your first screenplay, you may wish to consider the following: 1. Get some professional feedback. 2. Once you think your work is ready so shop, don't rule anything out, including approaching your ex-girlfriend's associates. Use any connection you have to make new connections, even a former girlfriend. 3. Consider Happy Writers pitch sessions or also virtual pitchfest. 4. Consider listing your script at Inktip 5. Consider entering your script into some script contests. I'd look for some festival showcasing urban stories and then work your way up to some of the more competitive contests Like Page Internation, Nichols and Austin Film Festival. 6. In the interim, start working on another script to showcase that fact you're more than a one script guy.

@ Thivanka, I think what Danny is saying is that the term 'coverage' is properly applied to a report produced on a script by a reader for a Studio, Agent etc... it is specifically about the script/writer and wether it is worth looking at further in terms of development. As a term it is often mis-used and confused with 'notes', which are more usually written to help the screenwriter improve their script. My view is that there is a plethora of notes services out there, some better than others, some more expensive than others, research a few, check out their credentials, see what testimonials they have, have they written/sold anything themselves, etc... BUT don't assume that cheaper is better as it probably isn't.

Thivanka. Before you start spending money on coverage (and i think coverage is great because I use it) I would send it out to some friends first. get some basic feedback on it. Hopefully you have a few friends who share your desire in screenplay writing. The reason I say this is because I tend to think consultants are for scripts that have been fleshed out and beaten up a bit with a few drafts. Those are the scripts that are best served in the hands of a consultant. If a consultant has to read/consult a first or even second or third draft, they are more than likely going to really see how unfocused the story is. That means you will get a ton of feedback on something you should already have most of the work done on. Pound out the small stuff...get at least 3-4 drafts down first. Then when a consultant gets it, he/she can do what they do best. Take a good piece of work and help you hone it into something great.

Stacey, im sorry, but since i dont see much info in your profile other than that you got into screenwriting later in life, I'm wondering what your experience and background is? Dont take this negatively, just curious...Since you're charging for notes?

Danny, as I said in the last thread you confronted me in, I have studied screenwriting for over 10 years, have spent over $5,000 on professional schooling and I can help people. If the person doesn't think I helped, I refund the money - do you? Also, I don't do what you do. I coach new screenwriters with rookie mistakes so that when they are ready to send for coverage or notes, the consultant can focus on more important aspects than on the nose dialogue and exposition.

Hey Erik! Great name. Solid spelling. We at Stage 32 actually provide some great coverage/notes and consulting. The cool thing is you get to pick the executive that reviews your material. They'll even hop on the phone to talk about it with you! Check it out here: https://www.stage32.com/happy-writers/consulting

Good job on all counts, I enjoyed the performance you garnered from your lead, you can tell you created a positive space for him to express some strong emotions.

Hey Melina - Do you like YA medieva Fantasy novels? If so may be take a look at my book - Maybe we could do something together?

Sorry to bother you but I was trying to visit your site without the popup! Please excuse the intrusion and remove my account. Sorry! Too much trouble for a short visit.

I'm sorry, I'm not sure what popup you're talking about but thank you for visiting or at least trying to. :)

do you love books? Please check out www.amazon.com/author/mrben for my book titles, possibly, if you can review them. Ina ll, lend me your general feedbacks. Your response will be appreciated.