script consulting services

juniper

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I ran across a company called "The Happy Writers" that advertises as a "A script consulting service of industry professionals" - link here:

http://www.thehappywriters.com/index.php

They do script reads/comments, classes, and arrange online pitch sessions.

I know there are other similar companies - are any of them worthwhile for a fledgling screenwriter? Or are they a waste of money?

Thanks ...
 

cornflake

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I ran across a company called "The Happy Writers" that advertises as a "A script consulting service of industry professionals" - link here:

http://www.thehappywriters.com/index.php

They do script reads/comments, classes, and arrange online pitch sessions.

I know there are other similar companies - are any of them worthwhile for a fledgling screenwriter? Or are they a waste of money?

Thanks ...

Going off the link - that looks like a script consulting service of former interns backed by, I'm willing to bet, someone's grandpa.

I don't know in general about them except the link but they're playing up their own experience like hell and their own experience looks very thin to me.

Have you tried Screenwriting SYW? There are a few industry ppl that read in that section.
 

Kfu3000

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I personally have never heard of "The Happy Writers". That's not to say they are or are not good.

As far as are paid readers/screenplay consultants "worth it", it all depends on how good they are. A very good reader can make a world of difference -- but be prepared for a serious critique. A mediocre reader is just a waste of money.

If you know people in your circle who are knowledgeable of the industry and are confident they will honestly give you a serious evaluation of your work, that's generally the best route... and cheapest (FREE!).

If the people who have read your script are all friends, family members and aspiring screenwriters, then it might behoove you to get a "professional" opinion (i.e. paid reader).

Don't let all the fancy company logos and name dropping influence your decision. The best readers are those that will help you make your screenplay the best it can be, not make false promises of getting you representation or sending it to producers.

Good luck!
 
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Robert_S

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Shop around. Some may be interns, some pros.

And the level of service differs as well. Script notes cost significantly more than coverage because of the level of detail.

I think unless you're deep in the industry, it's going to be next to impossible to tell who is worth the money.

FWIW, this guy looks promising and he's on my stage32 connection list:

http://www.fourstarfeedback.com/

The price is reasonable. Peruse the site and decide for yourself.
 

juniper

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Thanks - I don't have a script anywhere near finished but I have a relative who mentioned this place on FB.

It looks iffy to me - but I have no experience with these places so didn't know what to think.
 
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hvxjim

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I made a list years ago of people that were recommended by screenwriters, wish I still had it.

I had this service done once from one person on the list and thought it was worth the $60 I paid.

He hasn't updated his site in awhile, but here it is:

http://alligatorsinahelicopter.blogspot.com/
 

Kfu3000

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I made a list years ago of people that were recommended by screenwriters, wish I still had it.

I had this service done once from one person on the list and thought it was worth the $60 I paid.

He hasn't updated his site in awhile, but here it is:

http://alligatorsinahelicopter.blogspot.com/

That's Scott Mullen the reader. I've never used his services, but have heard very good things. His site isn't updated, but as of a few weeks ago, he was still offering script notes.

There are a few other really good ones like The Screenplay Mechanic, Rob Ripley and Bart Gold.