In the screenwriting world, scores of clowns try to separate people from their hard-earned cash. Unfortunately, pretty much any lamebrain can call themselves a script consultant. For example, I read the first ten pages of the script adaptation of a well-known novel for which I'm about to tackle a rewrite. The person who wrote it claims they're a script consultant but I thought the writing was less than engaging. So if you're looking for screenplay notes, I highly suggest researching and ensuring the consultant can write their way out of a paper bag. However, I would first seek other writers you might learn from and see if they'll exchange scripts with you. That will save you some cash.
Other parasites include managers and agents that want you to pay for representation when they intend to do nothing to further your career. If anyone asks you for money, run for the hills. NEVER PAY ANYONE TO REP YOUR WORK!
And as someone who has signed four options this year, I've become much better at taking the lead on negotiating deals where I supply the agreement. This prevents you from being pressured into signing agreements only favorable to the other party. For options or right-to-shop, the simpler the agreement, the better. And have a line in there that says something like this:
The parties intend to enter into a more formal agreement if the Property is successfully ‘sold’ and will be consistent with the terms and conditions as customary in the motion picture and television industry agreements. The Producer and Writers can bring forth their managers, agents, and/or lawyers as necessary.
And never, ever deal with someone who has shifty eyes. Just sayin'.
Phillip: You shouldn't have given him back his money ... if a writer doesn't know how to accept constructive criticism and advice ... and above all he doesn't respect your work and only his problem .....
Expand commentPhillip: You shouldn't have given him back his money ... if a writer doesn't know how to accept constructive criticism and advice ... and above all he doesn't respect your work and only his problem ... it's wrong to quit and refuse to teach ... especially if there are any money in between ... I paid a lifetime to fix my novels .. editing, proofreading .. etc.
I will continue to do it as long as I have breath because in life you never stop learning and improving!
Dan : I'm sorry but this time I don't agree with you!
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Manuela:
I'm too nice a guy sometimes.
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Manuele. It is okay to disagree. Personally, I just don’t like reading screenplays and giving feedback. Some people like to do that and some don’t and some even charge to do it. It’s just not my thing.
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Dan: Well I would gladly pay to get some guidelines from people who have been in the field for years .. also because on their own and without investing anything in cinema you don't go anywhere!
However, always with the utmost respect for you friend!