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is it a good idea as a screenwriter to get a agent to screen or send out completed screenplays or treatments?

John David Clay

11 years, 4 months ago - John David Clay

Hello, just reading some o Chris Jones latest articles and makes me wonder it is a good idea to get a agent to screen through potential work or send out completed screenplays or treatments. Would be interested to know any good advice? that does costs one much money (hiring a agent)....

Thanks

John

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Yen Rickeard

11 years, 4 months ago - Yen Rickeard

Paddy has it right on both counts. Even an email has to be written well. Most production companies will not even read your script, because of potential copyright problems. They know that agents will vet the scripts first, and will not sue when they come up with a boy meets girl that has one other point in common with yours.
Getting an agent is not easy. They are very picky, and if you are not famous/already successful/know them personally it is hard to break in. (Not that I am the least biased here)
But once you have them interested, they should work with you to make your scripts saleable, get them on the right desks, work you a good deal, and take their percentage. They will have earned it.

Response from 11 years, 4 months ago - Yen Rickeard SHOW

Paddy Robinson-Griffin

11 years, 4 months ago - Paddy Robinson-Griffin

JDC, chap, do yourself a favour and check your posts before posting about professional writing! If your cover letters are written similarly then nobody will even open the script for sure. Sorry to be blunt about it, but someone needs to be, and it's my turn.

Agents will get far more credibility for their clients than spec scripts if they have already represented successful writers and agreed to stake their reputation on your work. Then they'll take 15% or so if what they sell the script for.

If anyone is charging a flat fee, they don't believe in your work, so avoid them. Instead make your scripts excellent - and let them read and offer them around.

Response from 11 years, 4 months ago - Paddy Robinson-Griffin SHOW