Most if not all screenwriters want to see their work on the big screen. In the middle of a global pandemic, big screen can be Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, and any other major streaming platforms! The question most writes ask is...
Is it possible for my screenplay to be sold?
Let's talk about it! Yes it is possible to get your #screenplay sold or picked up by a major production company. I guess the questions that should be considered is: What are my odds? And, what does it take to sell a screenplay?
What Are The Odds?
You are not the only #writer with a really creative concept. You do not have the most authentic, original piece ever written. I know that sounds harsh but it's a truth that we must swallow before we can progress. That doesn't discount your writing, it's simply what it is. There's plenty of writer fish in the sea!
Plus you won't make it far in this industry walking around chanting "you've never seen anything like this." In order to beat the odds you must first understand the power in not reinventing the wheel. There are markets for a reason. A specific market audience, likes specific type of films and/or series. There are #filmmakers that have a paved a way for the generations of filmmakers coming up. Its best if you study the market and data from previous projects that did well. The mass majority of careered writers has agents. Is it possible to sell a #script without an #agent, absolutely. Will it require tenacity and discipline, HECK YES.
The odds can turn in your favor if you understand what the industry is looking for. It's not like you can call a #Netflix executive up and ask, so you have to do the research. Selling a screenplay goes way beyond writing a story. The more you understand the fundamentals of the industry game, the further you'll go. The odds are against the #writer not willing to commit to the process.
What Does It Take To Sell A Script?
Selling a script takes more than a creative story. Especially if you're an independent writer. It takes a keen understanding of the industry and it's process. We won't go into depth in this blog about the entire process, but let's start at creating a developed story. Presenting an undeveloped story is an automatic no! The script will always change a bit but, it must already be a solid, structured foundation.
Imagine if Dr.Pepper only used 19 flavors instead of 23...it would change the flavor in a drastic way. Same goes for your screenplay. Plot holes defiantly alters the flavor of your vision. Have you spent quality time dissecting your concept? Do you know how to structure the story? Have you created a treatment, deck or show bible? All of those items give insight on the specifics of the story. The only way to effectively communicate your vision is to develop it! Below are a few things you can do to develop your concept.
Outline your story:
Break down each character
Establish the world/setting of the story
Map out the major plot points and/or cliffhanger
This will look different for everyone. However, I recommend outlining your story, even if its a short film or series. If you are writing to sell, questions will arise pertaining your characters, world, and your plot points. Spending quality time developing your concept not only enhances it, but also creates a strong pitch. Try not to run through development! The story is the product! Take your time with it.
Developed Characters & Story -> Strong Pitch -> Marketable Project