If you haven't got personalized stationery, put your contactinformation here, under your name. Be sure to include your phonenumber and email address.*******In other words, Wavers, the
first paragraph should be your bonafides
. Any competition wins or placements should go here, as shouldany film program or impressive university you graduated from. If youhave not got any filmic or screenwriting bona fides, try to findsomething you can say by way of introducing yourself. Obviously,having creds in the screenplay world is a great attention-getter andthis is why I recommend leading off with it. Suddenly, you are takena bit more seriously - you have something to brag about. Again,those who feel they have no creds, get creative - think of something, anything that gives you some credibility. If your script isset in a coal mining town and you grew up in one, mention it. If yourscript is about doctors and you're a doctor - mention it. Maybe youhad an open heart surgery and now have a baboon heart - if thathas direct bearing on your script - mention it. Paragraph one isabout piquing interest.
If the recipient of your query has recently wrapped or evendebuted a movie, mention it.
It demonstrates that you're in theknow and that you've taken the time to follow their career just abit. Not in a stalky way - don't mention their new twins or that greathouse on Oak Lane. Your SASE may just contain a restraining order.
The second paragraph is your logline-teaser.
Lead off with thetitle, and be sure to mention the genre and time period. Then layyour gorgeous logline on them.
Wrap it all up in the third paragraph
, by graciously offering tosend the script in any format should they be interested in a read.Make it easy for them, include an SASE.
Do:
Research the recipient; know their movie or client credsBe brief Be graciousGet to the pointMake sure your logline rocksNote your accomplishments or credentialsInclude an SASE
Don't:
BabbleBegBe too self-deprecatingMake stuff up to look goodName dropInclude pictures, cd's or supplemental materials (you think I'mGet Text Alerts
your phone number
Subscribe
Powered byFeedM8
BLOG RUSHPICTURE OF THE DAY
BE YOUR OWN PROTAGONIST
June 21-22, Burbank, CA