Advice — larry brody

Each year hundreds of screenplays become feature films. And each year thousands of teleplays become television episodes. Opportunity-wise, televisions's got feature films beat. TV's got the heat. The magic. The glitz. All that's missing is you. How do you change that? Well, first you've got to dedicate yourself to the Game. Accept the fact that TV is a personal business. It's about YOU first and your talent and ability second. Your next step is to adopt the "career" mindset. In television almost no one hits the jackpot with one script. In television we make a reputation for ourselves, amass credits...

Question: Can you tell me what the process is once I've submitted my screenplay to a production company? Where does it go once it's been delivered? Who reads it first, who next, and what exactly happens to my script next? Leticia R., Toronto, Ont. Larry Brody Responds: When you send in a screenplay all by your lonesome, without an agent, the odds are it gets tossed out, or you get a letter saying the company can't consider your submission without a release. If this happens to you, request a copy of their release form and sign it. The release will...

~~ Patrick O. asks: How will I know whether my script idea is better suited for television, independents or a major studio? I've seen coverage comments that one idea may be suited for a MOW [Movie of the Week], but how does a writer know this in advance? Whom do I pitch? Patrick X. O., Hollywood, FL ~~ Larry Brody responds: I know a little about TV after over 30 years in it, and what it all boils down to is this: Television movies are more issue-oriented than theatrical features. In many ways, they're more adult -- although the adult...

Dear Gatekeeper: Would you recommend entering a screenwriting contest? I have a script I would like to submit, and would appreciate some feedback on what they have to offer and any other advice on contests you can give me. Thank you. Janice, Washington, D.C. Larry Brody Responds: These days, with so many new writers out there with no credits, screenwriting contests serve as screening devices. Winning, placing, or even being a finalist or semi-finalist in any of the major screenwriting contests is almost as good as a production credit and gives a new writer credibility you otherwise wouldn't have had....

Each year hundreds of screenplays become feature films. And each year thousands of teleplays become television episodes. Opportunity-wise, televisions's got feature films beat. TV's got the heat. The magic. The glitz. All that's missing is you. How do you change that? Well, first you've got to dedicate yourself to the Game. Accept the fact that TV is a personal business. It's about YOU first and your talent and ability second. Your next step is to adopt the "career" mindset. In television almost no one hits the jackpot with one script. In television we make a reputation for ourselves, amass credits...