Hello Everyone!
I'm new to this page but I've been on Stage 32 for a few years now. I've had some recent success having a well known producer read and like one of my TV pilot scripts. He has given me his permission to use his name in trying to sell the project. This is a huge opportunity for me but now I feel stuck. I'm not sure what the next steps are to take. Is this the point where I need a literary agent to try to sell the script for me? Or should I be pitching it myself? Please let me know whatever advice you have to give. Thanks! Michael
Ask the producer for a referral to a TV agent. Why isn't the Producer on board? Give up some stake and use his rolodex and connections.
David, I have a brief series bible. I do not have a query letter (mainly because I don't know where I would send it) and I do not know what Tropes are (is). I'm pretty quick to get things done when I'm pointed in the right direction. I've pitched the script in writing through Stage 32. I'm in the holding pattern to hear back for the next 3 weeks. I was able to contact my producer friend through outside sources. He has written and produced for "Seinfeld", "Ellen", "Cheers", etc. etc. He liked my script and told me he is willing to help produce, re-write, oversee the project in general. But he is still a working professional and I think he is expecting me to find funding. So now I'm looking and I've read and been told that is a job for a literary agent. Is this correct or should I be acting on my own and pitching the project to Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, and the Networks. I'm learning the ropes but I do not want to squander this great opportunity, Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Dan, I see what you are saying but I'm just thrilled that he has allowed me to use his name in trying to get funding. I think it would be asking too much to dig into his contacts. I agree it would be great but I feel like I have not earned that right yet. I'll keep trying and see where it goes! Thanks!
Migdalia, Yes I did and will keep doing so! Thanks and God bless!
Michael:
I've been in book publishing (to a large extent) most of my life. Do you mean, by "Literary Agent", an agent in book publishing, or because Stage 32 is for movies, a movie agent?
If the former, try a site called QueryTracker.com . Seems most on that site are book publishing agents with a smattering of them who accept movie scripts.
Jack, Thanks for the note. I'm spring boarding off of Evan S. Smith's book "Writing Television Sitcoms". On page 191 and 192 he defines the job of a "literary agent" or "lit" agents. He states that an agent is primarily a salesperson who spends most of his days - pitching his clients to prospective employers - (dealing) with particular networks, studios, and production companies. So, I think I'm looking for a literary agent to help me sell the project. Does that make sense to you? Thanks for the link I will check it out for certain! Michael
Michael: I might be at fault here, but I believe it is the use of the term “Literary Agent” that is causing confusion.
To my knowledge a “LITERARY” Agent deals solely with literature (i.e. Fiction manuscripts aimed at an academic or similar type of reader). When I write a screenplay it is not literature - it can’t be. It is in a completely different format, with etheral subject, that is here and minutes later - gone. Literature is supposed to last the ages - like Shakespeare etc.
Very well… now, if it is not a literary agent who pedals screenplays - who does? An IP (Intellectual Property) Agent, an Entertainment Agent, a movie script agent.
Last night I searched QueryTracker.com - unless it is buried in the agent’s profile - I could not find one agent dealing with movies or screenplays - ALL were for book publishers. Likewise the AAPR.org (American Assoc. of Publishing Representatives), I do believe is solidly for book publishing. I hope this makes it a bit clearer - but be warned - I might be in error.
-- Keep creating,
Jack.
Jack, I hope to find an agent who deals with all that you have listed: "IP (Intellectual Property) Agent, an Entertainment Agent, a movie script agent" What ever kind of agent does that! I appreciate the advice from you. I'm just using definitions I have found in the books by the "experts". I have a tiger by the tail and I'm in need of a lion tamer! To mix some metaphors, I've landed on the 5th or 6th rung of a ladder without walking up the first few. So I have a great TV sitcom producer interested in working with me. But I do not have the necessary pieces in place to hire him. Normally an agent or the purchasing/producing network would get the script to the producer after hiring them. At least I think that is how it normally works. Anyway, thanks again! I'll keep you guys posted if I get any answers. Michael