Since last I checked into the Lounge, my screenplay ONCE A HOMECOMING QUEEN has won several more recognitions (Paris International Women's Festival, WRPN Women's International Film Festival) and I've been pitching on Stage 32 to film executives and development people. Two of my contacts asked for my screenplay, always with a caution that aa screenplays featuring a female actress in her 70s, fighting alcoholism (working on the journey of recovery) is a tough sell even for Glenn Close whom I had in mind as the lead when I wrote it. I listened to the webinar on how to attract an A-Liister actor/actress last Thursday. It was agony to hear how difficult it was to find "your mark." Finding a casting director was one good idea (although I/we/you) would be insuring the costs. A good idea was to get on IMDb pro and do my own research. I've resisted but now I'm gaining to sign up for more cold calls and pitches. One good note: my novel of the same name - ONCE A HOMECOMING QUEEN, will be out in February. Maybe I'll let the publisher handle my screenplay, but I asked for my journey and I'll keep on the road until and unless the fat lady sings. Thanks. Joan Moran
Introduce Yourself : Once a homecoming queen by Joan Moran
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Congrats on the success you've had so far! I have a friend who exclusively writes scripts centered on women over 60. It is such a huge barely-tapped market, but I think now that so many famous women who were once the biggest theater-draws are entering those groups, we're going to see things really change. You might just be ahead of the curve so don't let up!
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Dear Emily, Thank you for your encouragement ad support. I believe this is a moment for older actresses. We have so many of them! Let's consider mid-60s to almost 80. We know who they are, but we don't know how to get to them. The gatekeepers are in front of them, unwilling to entertain reading a script that might be a tour de force for them. And I have aa novel coming out in February that I adapted to a screenplay. It boggles the mind. So again my gratitude to you for processing the conundrum. All the best to you, dear Emily.
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Hi Joan, I just wrote a treatment about a woman whose partner deals with alcohol, this woman must face a difficult choice after her daughter is kidnapped, shall we get in touch about it? Thanks, Gerard, Barcelona
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I'm rooting for you, Joan! Thanks for sharing your experience so far. I think Emily makes some excellent points, which I hope play out. My comedy, PARALLEL PROPOSALS, was a Stage 32 Double Recommend, but with four main characters 50+ and one 70+, it's a tough sell to younger (mostly male) gatekeepers. Also, most actors in their 50s want to play younger characters--and can get away with it--so I suppose it would be an actor in her 60s cast for a character in her 50s. My comedy has generated some heat, but the last producer recently decided he didn't want an ensemble piece. Onward!
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Congrats on the two script requests, Joan Moran! So excited to see another update for "ONCE A HOMECOMING QUEEN"! IMDb Pro will definitely come in handy when looking for a casting director (or producer, production company, etc.).
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Dear Andrea, great points and that's for sharing and weighting in. It occurred to me as I was reading your comment that it might be easier if you wrote (we wrote) aa screenplay about aa male in his 70s, alcoholic and outrageous, it would get more consideration. I'm guessing. I don't pitch to men. I had three experiences and their eyes glazed over. No comments. Waste off my time and money. Lesson learned. We'll keep plugging on and see what the gods have to say.
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Hi Joan, first off congratulations on the current success and recognitions. That is awesome. And having the novel published. Adding sprinkles to that cupcake. Yes please. Keep going.
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Dear Tyneckia, Thank you for your support and encouragement. I appreciate your thoughts. Onward.
Best to you, Joan