Screenwriting Basics

If you have ever dreamed of getting into Hollywood you may wonder, “how do I do it?” There are several ways. If you are a screenwriter it may seem simple. The traditional method is to hire an agent preferably one who does not charge), and have them contact movie studios, producers, and television networks on your behalf. This is also how the book industry largely works. There are few companies who will allow an unknown screenwriter or author to submit their work directly.

So if you are interested in traditional methods go to the Writer’s Guild and try to become a member. Hire an agent and see what they can do on your behalf. Don’t expect anything to happen overnight.

What about Actors? It is largely the same. The common thinking is that if you want to succeed in Hollywood you have to get an agent. Movie Studios won’t even consider you if you don’t have one.

For actors check out the Actor’s Guild and see if you can find a list of qualified agents.

It really is a pretty simple concept. However, there is a growing trend of talent no longer interested in following this traditional plan of success. Screenwriters want to submit a script directly to movie studios. They don’t want a middle man. The same goes for actors. They want to be able to get noticed and audition through the web.

This appears to be a growing trend with all the talent agencies that can be found on the internet. More and more actors and screenwriters seem to be looking for instantaneous ways to promote themselves.

The growing acceptance by Movie Studios appears to be moving slowly towards the acceptance of online based talent agencies. Most of the agencies charge, but some don’t. Moreover it is quick and easier for a person to post a profile, and audition over the web then to fly all the way out to L.A. or New York.

Is the internet revolutionizing how casting calls are being done? Perhaps. At the minimum the new talent websites that are popping up, will provide an additional resource to movie studios, actors, and screenwriters.

Author: Evan Pedone

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