Studios will not read an ?unsolicited? screenplay. Meaning a script not sent to them by an agent, lawyer or someone known to them personally. It?s a legal issue.

If you don't have any screenplay sales under your belt, you're going to have to approach an agent cold. Without being able to say, "Hey, I've sold a script! Sign me.", you have to entice them some other way. There are two ways to get somebody to read your script. You can network and get to know them on a personal level, then ask them to read your script as a favor. Networking, however, can take years to cultivate the kind of relationship where an agent is willing to do you the personal favor of considering your script without it feeling like you're using him. Your other option is to query. Send a letter to agents, asking them to read your script. Since you don't have any sold or produced screenplays under your belt, your letter has to convince them that your script is worthwhile anyway.

In order to maximize your chances of getting a sale or agent, you should submit to production companies as well as agents. An option (or better, a sale) to a production company can often do wonders when it comes to finding an agent. Almost any agent would be happy to take on a client (and take his 10%) that's already done the legwork and found money for his work. When sending query letters to production companies, call ahead of time and make sure you know how to spell the name of the person you're sending it to, and what their exact title is. Screenplays are read and considered by the Development (or Creative) department. Just call the production company and ask the receptionist if they accept new material... and if they do, to whom you should address the letter, and what their title is.

You should NEVER send your script (or a treatment or anything other than the query letter itself) unless the company first asks for it. Legal reasons prevent companies from accepting or even looking at material submitted without their express permission or a pre-existing working relationship. At best, your script (or treatment or whatever) will be returned to you unopened, or thrown away. At worst, you'll be put on the company's blacklist and never allowed to submit anything again. Just send a query letter... if they want to read your script, they'll ask for it.

The best way to optimize your chances of getting an option or a sale is to send it to as many people as possible. Agents, if they like the script, will send it to the production companies they have connections with. Production companies, if they like the script, can pay you for your work, or at least give you the clout to get an agent.

The Writer?s Guild website ( http://www.wga.org) has a list of agencies. The Hollywood Representation Directory ( http://www.hcdonline.com/) is more expensive (about $60), but lists individual agents at each agency.

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The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)

Do you belong to a writer's group or have people to review your material...besides family and friends? It is a good idea to have a few people read your work to make sure it is ready for submittal. The last thing you want to do is submit material that might not be ready. You don't get second chances to submit material. It has to bowl them over the first time. If you want there are people (including me) on this board and other boards who will be glad to read your scripts...for free. Be ready for some constructive criticism...it will only help you.

I own a production company that is looking to aquire a script or two for production. If you wish to discuss things further. My email address is byarbrough?mac.com. My production company is called Insurrection Films. We are just starting out, but all have film background. Email me, we can discuss this in further.

-Bryce
owner

I might be 18, but watch out, everyone has to start somewhere. I'm just starting a bit faster and bigger. 🙂