I hope a few people would read this and understand that have similar problems like myself when they read this thread. First off, I was in a horrible accident this past September that I dislocated my knee but I can pay all my medical bills. However, I'm still in a financial rut when it comes to pursue my dreams of a screenwriter/director without going to film school (ex: Tarantino).
I'm currently working on my second screenplay, finished editing my first full length, nearly done writing a TV series that I wrote by myself. The sad part is that I want to enter the contests but I can't afford their fees. I'm not working because I just started physical therapy and I want to focus on my health before I can go back to the wonderful world of the everyday job market. Which I don't mind at all.
I don't want a pity party, no way! I'm just looking for someone who understands and feel the same way. Being stuck and feel like they're not getting anywhere because of their situation(s). If you have a child who is sick or an elderly parent in a hospice and you're in a rut, I truly understand.
Question is: have you ever tried to pursue your goals but are financially strapped when it comes to copyright fees, contest entry fees, etc. and you feel hopelessly stuck?
I'm so sorry for being a crybaby but remember, no pity party for me. Thank you.
One other thing: reboots are getting annoying!
Thank you Laura for the valuable information and the well wishes. I will look into talentville right now!
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Hi, Kellie. Sorry to hear you're feeling that way. I concur with Laura in that I don't think you should feel stuck either, although I certainly understand why you feel the way that you do. I'm operating on a tight budget too, and have other conflicting responsibilities in my life (we all do, right? Lol!). Plus I pretty much ignore all the noise out there -- because it is noise. Focus on what you can control, and that's your craft, your writing. You don't need contests to do that -- they're rather self-congratulating circles, anyway. Laura mentioned John August and other resources... Yup, use what is readily available and right at your fingertips. Utilize your local library, etc. No need to spend a lot on books. Understand you already have instant, immediate protections under "copyright" the second you create a fixed work. Registering a claim is a good idea, but it is voluntary. Do research. Know the facts. Maybe save up for those types of expenses. Post work for review on S32, even just a few pages. Query when you are ready. Keep an eye on the trades. Watch movies. Read a ton of scripts easily found online for free. Study them. Maybe see if there are some local creatives that you could film a short with. Have some fun! Start small and work up. Just keep going. Once this difficult time has passed you may find yourself ready to hit the ground running. So feel better soon! And hold your head high! You're a writer, dammit! :)
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LMAO Thank you Beth! I just downloaded the current oscar noms when they came out and some of my personal favs. I'm walking without pain finally! Whew!