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TUTORIAL: Producing Independently

QUESTION: I want to produce my own script – any advice?

ANSWER: The internet has proved to be a great way for independent filmmakers to plug into the freelance writing, direction and acting talent worldwide.

Here are some good sources for independent filmmakers:

The Independent Features Project: www.ifp.org This is a non-profit group dedicated to developing and promoting independent films. They can lead you to financing and distributing sources.

The Association of Independent Video and Filmmakers: www.aivf.org They have a helpful section titled "Advocacy".

www.indieclub.com This is a networking group for filmmakers - listed by geographical area. You're trying to do something very unique, perhaps you can get feedback from others who have tried to create a 'prototype' film in order to protect themselves.

Before you expose your work to any contacts you may glean from these resources, be sure you've established your copyright. Then keep track of who is exposed to your script and your film. And keep records of all correspondence, phone conversations and faxes.

But keep in mind that it is usually not the idea itself that makes a profitable market - it is the execution of the idea. Take these security precautions, but don't get caught up in the notion that everyone will plagiarize your idea or you will undermine your chances to give your project the exposure it needs to be successful. Focus your energy on the execution of your idea - that's what will make it especially marketable, and ultimately unique.

Question: How do I know if the ‘deal’ a producer offers is good?

Answer: Keep in mind that you as the creator own all the rights to this project until you sell them. Only make a deal that is comfortable for you. Don't put yourself in a position where you sign an unfair contract because you're worried about lunch money.

In my experience, if a true industry pro is deeply interested in your project, other pros probably will be also. As the creator, you should share not only in profits but also in all merchandising and separated rights (stage, internet, CDs, TV shows etc) down the line. The Guild has some sample contracts on their site; check out the 'separated rights’ clauses.

Once you have serious people interested in financing your project, you MUST enlist an entertainment attorney (a trusted personal referral is best) or an agent to look over your contract. It's essential.

QUESTION: What script qualities attract a star?

ANSWER: Whether a producer submits the script to a star or you write to the star's company yourself and get permission to send your script, the script must contain the qualities that will attract the star:

1) An interesting, well-developed character caught up in a compelling situation with potential for exciting conflict.

2) A character who takes action within the story that leads to the resolution of the conflict’s climax. You'd be surprised how many aspiring writers forget this vital #2 'star quality'.

QUESTION: What script qualities attract a successful director?

ANSWER: To attract a director you must lay out a compelling story that can be told visually. By this I don't mean special effects and stunning scenery. The story must unfold visually; the emotion conveyed visually, the danger represented visually and so on.

QUESTION: What is a ‘hook’?

ANSWER: Some people get hung up on this. Sorry about that pun.. The hook of a movie does not have to be outrageously original:

'A one-legged cross-dresser tries to infiltrate the Rockettes to assassinate the Mayor of New York'.

A hook simply means something that will peak the interest of the audience. Take E.T. - it's a simple (though pretty original) hook - an alien child is left behind on earth, he's befriended by an earthling boy and together they figure out a way to get the alien kid back home.

QUESTION: What's the best script software - the ones the pros use?

ANSWER: The best selling program is Final Draft, next is Screenwriter 2000 by Movie Magic and then Scriptware and Script Thing are close behind. The Writer's Store in Los Angeles offers free demo downloads so you can try them out. Or check out my formatting tutorial.

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