Getting a script read

A query letter always seems to do it for me. It's getting them to buy it that has me confuzzled. (Sorry, always wanted use that word hehe.) I can't seem to find the right producer for the right script.

When I was young

in my writing career I sent a script to Matt Damon.

Just sent it through the mail, regular post.
Didn't hear a word back.

I wrote to Russell Crowe asking him if I could use some off the cuff comments to audience reactions that had been used on his band's CD. I explained that I found them wonderful examples of Aussie slang and that they fit the character in my novel and that I intended to use them to flesh out the character.

(I wanted to cover myself and get permission just in case it somehow came to light how I got THOSE exact words.)

I got a letter back from his lawyer saying that RC had declined permission and that he and his band didn't want or sanction any involvment with my novel.

I wrote back said "No, no, you misunderstand. I don't intend to use names or anything, I just don't want to be sued for using these two lines. I've enclosed the pages in question."

I got back another letter that said "Again, RC refuses you permission.
Bugger off."

Gotta love Aussies!!!!

All right, it didn't really say that but it was pretty close.

BOTH letters had CC to Russell Crowe on em SO I assume that the request actually made it to the big guy himself and was personally rejected.
I enjoy believing that anyway.

I know someone in Oz who runs a bar RC visits from time to time.
I've thought of taking a trip out there.
Then I remember that I live in the US and have two small children at home.

Many many years ago, (when I was but a young, dumb boy) I wanted to adapt into a script, the theme album "Music from the Elder," from the Rock Group "Kiss." A great fantasy story about a young boy chosen by the Elders to fight a battle between good and evil. The outcome would decide what force rules the Earth for the next millennium.

I found out Kiss was performing in town and I snuck into the hotel and told the front desk I was sent from the arena as additional security (I had a friend who lent me his ID badge from the Concert Hall.)

The desk clerk believed it and I got their room numbers. I hung out in front of Gene Simmon's room until after the show.

I waited and waited and finally, just as I saw the elevator door open and Gene Simmons strolling out into the hall, a real security dude from the hotel tapped me on the shoulder and took me away.

After twenty minuted of explaining that I was not some crazed fan and explaining my intent. I got the friendly boot out the door. My friend was reprimanded for giving his ID out and we weren't on friendly terms after that.

I got to see Gene, but alas no contact.

Lucky I didn't get arrested.

I use to think of some clever ways to get a script to actors that would get their attention. I thought of finding a fortune cookie place to make personalized fortune cookies. The fortune would read: You are Cynthia Payne...something of that nature....then send it to her at a restaurant she frequently visits.

Then after about a week, personally send the script to them.....Do it with each of your main characters...haha...

Bran...

I love that idea -- hell, it might even inspire me to write a script about such a sweet little scam.

Razor

A long, LONG time ago I worked as Julie's stand in on the Love Boat. My dad was the art director. His wife was a secretary to Aaron Spelling's right hand man. You get the picture -- I was right there, on the set every day with directors and producers.

I wrote a pitch for an episode, gave it to my dad who then gave it to the show's producers. They told me they'd already DONE a similar show ( not hard to believe with--what-- ten seasons of the Boat???)

Anyway, that was the only time I've ever submitted anything to anyone. Laugh, yes chortle away...it was the Love Boat after all...which soon sank in the ratings and I no longer stood in for anybody, but that's beside the point.

I tried.

razormoney said:

I love that idea -- hell, it might even inspire me to write a script about such a sweet little scam.

Razor

Click to expand...

Do I sense another Bowfinger in the works??? haha