Screenwriting : Tips for a non-represented writer by Jai Jackson

I don't quite fit the bill, but I'll tell you my experience with a manager.

I do a fair amount of work with an LA-based production company. One of the producers (well-known, multi-credited, award-nominated) referred me to a manager. The manager has several screenwriter clients who work consistently, and on popular shows and a few movies. I was excited. This was it. The big step.

Except it wasn't. The manager, who liked the specs I sent him, immediately started telling me what he "needed me" to write, even though I had no interest in writing those things. He expected me to pick up my six-decades-old life and move to LA. Told me my specs were good, but would take time from his other clients to shop.

That was it for me. We lasted two phone calls, a Zoom, and four e-mails.

The lesson here is to know your own plan, get your work into as many credible hands as you can, and then refrain from jumping at representation just to have a manager or agent. If your work is out there and it's good, a manager will find you, or the one you target will be receptive. But a 'name' and his or her client list mean nothing if your goals aren't in synch. My three weeks as a 'professional' with representation were more miserable than any rough time I've had as an unrepped amateur.

That's very informative, Shelia. Thanks for sharing.

It would depend on what you want to do and why you think you need an agent/manager.

Easy. Write a sample screenplay that shows your uniqueness and craft-execution on paper. That is all. Reps are salesppl and they always need writers. Fact.

My 2cent advice (repped writer here) - start winning fellow writer-peers. Less selfish, more selfless gestures. Your writer-pals are more likely to hook you up for a job/vouched for you than a rep, especially when you have nothing to show you can write for income (produced plays, published books, newspaper, advertising, PHD in Literature).

I am a nobody but an established writer recommended me to the number 1 Manager/Producer in Hollywood. I didnt have to query, no NDA agreements- just send him directly; and I have recommended a few writers to Manager. Basically, show biz and Organized crime operate the same way. Lots of personal recommendations. Trust not to waste Ppl's time.

Dan Guardino what's a query letter?

... A brief letter whose purpose is to seek consideration for a read/development consideration, or representation - depending on whom you're querying. As in all things, there's an art and a skill to it. It describes your screenplay and includes a short bio. I'm sure there are resources here on Stage 32 that will teach you how to craft a good one.

There are people who swear by their practice of sending out a minimum number of targeted query letters every week. I for one had a response rate of about 1 out of 20 or 25 - and that response was usually "No thanks," so I don't do them anymore.

Repped writer here: Tip # 1: Develop and write a couple of production worthy sample scripts. Tip #2: Attend every festival seminar where Agents, Producers and Writers are panelists - participate and show your stuff around. Agents & Managers love those things as it gives them a chance to discover new money making potential clients for them. Tip #3: It worked for me - I suggest you give it a try.

Dan MaxXx Contender for quote of the weekend from you, plus it made me laugh: Basically, show biz and Organized crime operate the same way.

The other thing to note here is that even when you get repped, you don't stop your own hustle. Nobody is going to work for you like you can work for yourself. Plus, you know what's getting done, and you're always your top priority.

Exactly, Sheila D. Boyd! Jai Jackson, this is similar to what Sheila is talking about: https://www.stage32.com/lounge/vip/The-truth-about-being-repped

I just realized that's a Writers' Room post, Jai Jackson. I think you have to be a member to see the post.

Can i be inducted?

Jai: You can be inducted into the Writer's Room for 39 bucks a month or cheaper if you sign on for three months to a year. I've been a member for 6 weeks and already used it to make 6 pitches. I had both a literary agent and a well-known entertainment agency that both pitched one screenplay each to a few contacts and then did nothing further. And believe me, I bear them no hard feelings. I got out of my Agency Deal so I could have another producer pitch the optioned script to someone else. One of my producer contacts has done an amazing job getting my work in front of established producers and production companies. I secured his patronage without an agent. I just scored two indie film deals without a rep. Write several scripts that are polished and then look for every opportunity to pitch even.

Are you thinking of joining the Writers' Room, Jai Jackson?

There's a saying within agencies, "you only need an agent when people can't believe you don't already have one".

Way too many writers go looking for reps way too early. They are rarely the fairy godmother people think they are and they are rarely interested in writers who aren't already securing jobs.

They are also often lazy and sometimes do more harm than good (take it from somebody who deals with actor's agents as a producer).

Jai Jackson you should receive an email offering the first month free with a link to join The Writers' Room. If not, select the red button, top of the screen, that says The Writers' Room for more info. You could also email S32 and ask about the free month to make sure you get it. Not sure if it's automatic when you register on your own.

I agree with Cara, Jai Jackson. You can also get a free month of the Writers' Room by becoming a Rockstar on Script Revolution (CJ Walley).

"Basically, show biz and Organized crime operate the same way. Lots of personal recommendations." -Dan MaxXx-. I love this quote! It hits the nail right on the head! Based on my limited experience, all artist, including writers, have to make their own way; forge their own path. It's an unfortunate fact about the artistic world is that, unlike other industries, there's no set career path or ladder to climb.

What works for John won't work for Bob, and Bob's way of doing things won't work for Sally. Sally knows people that Tina doesn't, but Tina lives in L.A. etc. etc. The point is to look at what makes you stand out, what's special and unique about you! And no, Syndrome, just because everyone's super doesn't mean no one will be. Every artist has a preferred way of selling themselves, whether that's agents/managers, query letters, networking, establishing your own IP first, moving to L.A., or a million other paths.

Just don't do anything unethical or illegal coughHookingUpWithTheDirectorcough, and keep at it! Put in the work, and make sure that talent and skill take precedence. Hollywood is suffering right now, because to be frank: THERE'S VERY LITTLE TALENT LEFT IN THE FILM INDUSTRY. You can theorize all day as to why, but there's the truth of it. Hollywood is dying because the majority don't know how to tell good stories anymore. So make the story the priority. Learn what it means to tell a good story, and write, write, write! Everything else will follow.

Hey Jai, first and foremost... focus on your writing, and making connections in the industry. Honest, genuine relationships with industry pros who want to see you succeed and that you get along with are paramount for the longevity of your career. Once you have a handful of scripts, outlines meet with a few managers to actually get signed, or if by chance you meet a producer who wants to option a script then meet with a manager. The best thing you can do is start by building your networks with managers and producers alike, Build momentum around your work by getting to know them, and them getting to know your voice as a writer. Best to do your research, and target managers who align with the genres you write in. Good luck in your search! Reach out anytime, and if you need more direction you can always write in to j.mirch@stage32.com, and Jason can always help point you in the direction of who to meet with! Cheers, GiGi

Hey Jai Jackson - this is a great question I get all the time. What I tell writers is, work and act as if you don't need a manager. Meaning, do the work and network with as many development executives, producers, filmmakers, and other industry professionals as much as you can. You would be surprised how much traction you can get - even as an unrepresented writer - by making the right connections.

Also, don't try and "get around the gatekeepers" - that is a flawed way of looking at the business. You don't want to get around the gatekeepers, you want to befriend and become valuable to the gatekeepers. They want to move up in their companies too - so bring them something really great and you can help each other.

Thank you guys for all the advice. The love is real here!