I posted yesterday with my query problems, got great help. Still, I have more questions, so this is kind of a follow up.
I've found an abundance of queries for novelists, but I need info on those sent on behalf of screenplays. First question; the way you approach the subject matter for novels and screenplays should be very different, correct?
On to the second question. In my previous post, I mentioned how I had submitted to WMA (I know, I know, they're big time. Too big for me. Let me dream, k? hehe). Here comes the conflict-- up until WMA replied to me, I had been following several query guidelines, (this one in particular: http://breakingin.net/tswquery.htm ) and in the guide it tells you to elaborate on your screenplay/what its about/marketing angles/unique-ness/etc, as so many other guides do. However, WMA and nearly all other agencies that I've researched tell you very plainly to not send unsolicited material. Problem! How do I tell them about my screenplay without TELLING them about my screenplay? (Disclaimer: I do realize that the chances in which I misunderstood that guide are good, very good. I know they didn't TELL me to send a logline...) Now, since I did send a logline, I'm wondering if I already know the answer to this question, and only need vindication. Did I get a send back on my submission because I sent a logline?... which is, I guess, technically, part of the creative material used for the actual marketing phase, right? In which case, does it mean that if I don't send the actual logline, but casually give them, basically, the same information, it's a technical loop to jump through for them and enables them to read about my work without breaking legalities?
Condensed; as long as that information isn't in logline form, then its ok for them to agree to read it?
Oh, confusion! But, seeing as how I was corrected on my error, and then went back to that particular guide, I do have a better understanding of what it is actually telling you to incorporate. Just having a little trouble doing so.
Third and last question (for now), I just need to know if anyone knows of some good query letter samples for screenplay writers! *pulls out hair*
I'm dyin' over here, guys. Help me help me help me pleeeease! =o]
I've found an abundance of queries for novelists, but I need info on those sent on behalf of screenplays. First question; the way you approach the subject matter for novels and screenplays should be very different, correct?
On to the second question. In my previous post, I mentioned how I had submitted to WMA (I know, I know, they're big time. Too big for me. Let me dream, k? hehe). Here comes the conflict-- up until WMA replied to me, I had been following several query guidelines, (this one in particular: http://breakingin.net/tswquery.htm ) and in the guide it tells you to elaborate on your screenplay/what its about/marketing angles/unique-ness/etc, as so many other guides do. However, WMA and nearly all other agencies that I've researched tell you very plainly to not send unsolicited material. Problem! How do I tell them about my screenplay without TELLING them about my screenplay? (Disclaimer: I do realize that the chances in which I misunderstood that guide are good, very good. I know they didn't TELL me to send a logline...) Now, since I did send a logline, I'm wondering if I already know the answer to this question, and only need vindication. Did I get a send back on my submission because I sent a logline?... which is, I guess, technically, part of the creative material used for the actual marketing phase, right? In which case, does it mean that if I don't send the actual logline, but casually give them, basically, the same information, it's a technical loop to jump through for them and enables them to read about my work without breaking legalities?
Condensed; as long as that information isn't in logline form, then its ok for them to agree to read it?
Oh, confusion! But, seeing as how I was corrected on my error, and then went back to that particular guide, I do have a better understanding of what it is actually telling you to incorporate. Just having a little trouble doing so.
Third and last question (for now), I just need to know if anyone knows of some good query letter samples for screenplay writers! *pulls out hair*
I'm dyin' over here, guys. Help me help me help me pleeeease! =o]
