Are queries a total waste of your time?

I'm wondering what are the thoughts of others here on queries? I'm in Los Angeles now, and here the prevailing attitude among industry people is basically don't bother with queries. People are much more likely to get read on the basis of industry referral (the only way the biggest agencies look at your stuff).

The issue with queries, as many here would say, as you are most likely at the bottom of the stack, and will likely be read by the lowest level script reader. The odds are not at all good.

you have to write a good logline. i know several people who have gotten reads on queries. the most important thing is to do some due diligence. find companies that match the material you are writing and construct a logline that is engaging and interesting that might sound good.

just like most anything in screenwritng your chances aren't even miniscule, they are downright abysmal.

but, not sending out queries cause you heard they don't work is kind of like throwing in the towel even before the bell rings.

1 an a million is better than dust collecting on your thriller.

vig

good call, vig.

based on what you're saying justino, i would say that if you're in LA and have a network of acquaintances that might result in a referral, then yes, that's the way to go.

if you have no real "in", i can't see how queries, even at remotely long odds, could be construed as a waste of time. indeed, it's the only game in town for some folks.

William, I'm waiting to just get feedback on my scripts from some people I know out here in Los Angeles. (they've worked as assistants to producers out here)

justino,why don't you get past this crippling mental barrier that won't allow you to post pages.

if you want to get an assesment of your writing, you post five pages and you will have an idea i know i can tell you if you can write or not, and so can other people.

this is why communities like this exist, so you can get an idea if you're on the right track.

vig

Are queries a total waste of your time?

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If your concept is good, your logline tight, and your query letter well-written, then absolutely not.

If your concept is weak, your logline confusing, and your query letter sloppy, then absolutely.

Ok, Vigorish, I will post some pages on these forums then. I'll have more time either tomorrow or Monday.

great, get ready for the truth, cause the truth can liberate.

vig