Screenwriting : Script coverage by Shibu Thomas

I have, but they take forever

Hi Shibu,

I am an award-winning writer and script consultant (my site: https://www.networkisa.org/mentor-individual.php?id=34&service_status=nh... )

I deliver thorough notes as opposed to vague paragraphs of "this did/didn't work." If your script is sent today, I can have it returned by Saturday. As for industry contacts, I can't provide those as that's not a standard in script consulting.

Feel free to message me at klukesh@hotmail.com with any questions!

Shibu, is it legal to smoke that stuff in your state? One day script coverage by an industry connected professional? LOL!

Why would possibly need a one day turnaround? It took you, what, 6 months to write it? A year? But you need coverage in 24 hours? Take the time it takes to get REAL Feedback - Notes, not coverage.

You're fighting a losing battle, Danny. Everyone thinks they want coverage because it's the new buzzword for the average writer, without realizing they want, as you said, notes, not coverage.

I will read your script in one hour and if I like it, I will forward it directly to the Owner of a top management company. Read on Friday, rep by Saturday, sell on Sunday.

$1000 fee. Will take paypal.

I make connections for my clients if/when their script is truly READY.

Shibu, I will tell you, what I believe Dan was telling you: You are being unrealistic. If you want genuine script coverage from an honest professional, I would offer you a very reasonable price. But, you won't have a day turnaround - it will be a few days. And, I would offer you REAL NOTES on both the script and also with an eye on if this is a commercial and do-able movie on a reasonable budget. But, will that guarantee you a rep or a deal? No, but as Dan tried to tell you in a very creative way, anyone who makes that promise to you is not being honest with you. If you want some help at a reasonable price, reach out. I'll even offer you some business advice over the telephone at no extra cost. Doubt you will get a better deal than that. Either way, I wish you Break Legs! GOD BLESS and STAY FRESH! ;)

I use to be a football coach by trade. You will never know how many parents came in with letters from private coaches / trainers who said their kids were division I players when they couldn’t even start for me in high school. If you are paying me I’m not going to be too blunt as I WANT YOU BACK!

PS I once paid to join a writer’s workshop where we passed out our work and everybody gave coverage. One such script had no formatting and no plot (to which the writer said “I want no plot”) Everybody was gushy about his ideas. I criticicized - abet nicely he needed to learn structure and formatted (He is paying for his advice) another was an author who’s book read like a grocery list of items - again everybody was gushy. I had learned and didn’t reply. At the end of my first workshop I was called and thrown out. The MBA “established” master writer said - The other writer’s did not want their work criticized and wanted praise. This sums up my feelings toward paid for coverage. Find another writer you like and ask him to read - if he’s a friend he’ll be honest. Go on simply scripts - post and ask for feedback - it’s free and trust me can be quite hones (some good - some bad.) but never pay for it!!!!

Sorry if I overwrote - as a newbie - the exploitation in this business annoys the hell out of me.

I disagree, John. When giving notes you need to be honest, regardless of whether you're being paid or not. In fact, I'd go as far as to say if you're being soft on a client because they're paying you, then you're taking their money under false pretenses. Friends and family give dishonest feedback because they don't want to hurt your feelings and that's why a writer should never ask for feedback from friends and family.

It doesn't matter if you pay for it or not, if you want honest feedback, find someone who knows what they're talking about.

John, I completely disagree with you. A professional needs to be paid for their time. I can give my track record - I've worked with multiple Oscar-Winners, multiple Oscar-Nominees, have gotten distribution, produced 13 pictures, directed five and written over 40 scripts. I've done rewrites for both independents and studio people. My IMDb page reflects this. And, I have only certain professionals I show my work to. I, myself, wouldn't go to a web-site or message board and ask some writer, who I know nothing about for his or her opinion or coverage. You go to a professional. That is called getting a professional opinion, NOT exploitation. Again, I've produced 13 pictures - I KNOW how to get it done. I have several pictures in pre-production or development, one film on the festival circuit and several in distribution. Can a writer on the boards say that? Do they really KNOW how to ground the money from an investor or how to make their script more marketable, or actors that might be willing to attach? I have a stable of them. But, I should do this all for free - for the fun of it? You should really be careful before you throw that term exploitation around. A professional needs to be paid for their time. Go to a writer on the message boards and you will get what you pay for.

I don’t think a professional script consultant should work for free but that doesn’t mean someone who doesn’t charge money wouldn’t be able to help an aspiring screenwriter.

John, that class or writers workshop sounds very different -- like it is off in its own little world. What you are describing or what the "master writer" is calling "coverage," it is not. It's not giving notes either. It is just giving opinions. Shared thoughts from other peers in a group in a class-like setting. And not even open opinions. Skewed. A strange dynamic to not allow constructive criticism only praise. That's weird. Nothing like other options paid or otherwise. If you weren't out already I'd say... RUN! RUN AWAY!! DANGER!!! ;)

To answer Shibu's question... personally speaking, I know of no one who does same day or next day turnaround on notes or coverage. Some online, anonymous coverage "service" may, but I would be leery -- probably a cut-and-paste scam. And if asking someone of professional reputation for a quick turnaround, to drop all that she/he is currently working on to focus on your script, well, I would imagine that would be quite expensive not to mention unlikely. Anyway, many people who commented on this thread offer services. Stage 32 offers services too. Perhaps look over Happy Writers. You can choose the person from whom you would like coverage, but turnaround time is 3 weeks. Hope that helps, Shibu. Good luck with your project!

Beth Fox Heisinger You're killing my coverage business! Shibu Thomas don't listen to naysayers. True Hollywood story. Jim miller, former super Agent, invited an unknown 22-year old writer to his office on Friday afternoon. Jim read the script in less than an hour and sold the script the next day, Saturday.

I have time right now in between buffet and Cavs/Celtics game. Price discount due to competition. $750 fee, plus 2 tickets to see Carol King musical on Broadway. 1-hour coverage, referral, and broadway tickets. Paypal open.

When I said friends I mean writers I know that have had success. Example I had two award winning writers read two of my scripts. Script one - they said was absolute rubbish that needed to be redone. (They were right - it was my first) Script two they both gave constructive corrections but thought the concept, form, and structure had great potential. This is the same you pay for.

I am sure there are some very good “consultant/gurus” but there can’t be that many. I am not saying they wont give you feedback (that ‘master writer” gave suggestions) but they won’t be harsh as they make their money off of getting more consultations (I don’t think they would st.

Preying on hopeful screen writers has become a cottage industry - AGAIN NOT SAYING EVERYBODY - but winning one award, opening a website, even writing a book in today’s instant publ;ish society does not make you an expert.

There is a consultant who list one of my friend’s award winning scripts as one of his successful consultants - basically he told the guy it was ready to go!!!!

All I’m saying is be very very careful in this area - just google “script consulting” and “screen writing consulting” and see the number of pages that arise.

One final rant - the best consultants - the muses - the average screenwriter can’t afford!

Sam, for the how to get it done part - I agree with you.

But to each his own.

John. I agree with you. There is nothing wrong for a new screenwriter to seek advice from someone who has more experience. And yes, since script consultant aren't regulated there are a lot of self proclaimed experts out there calling themselves script consultants ripping off aspiring screenwriters because they are easy prey.

Agreed, but that's why the tenet "Caveat Emptor" was invented or else "A sucker is born every minute" would be toothless.

This site, among others, is a good place to find others with good experiences using a consultant, reader or analyst. This site also offers those services.

Again, you do your homework. Go to the IMDb page of the person in question. What have they written that was made? Have they done any rewrites on features that were made? Projects in development? Do they double as a producer and know that side of it, to help a screenwriter be both practical and write something to actually get made. Who have they worked with? Track record? All of these things you can research about a person. Or you can play it cheap and go to a message board and just ask people for help. I personally don't believe in the latter. As a producer with 13 credits - and more on the way - having worked with Oscar-Winners, I wouldn't go into the producing forums and ask people their opinions. I would, however, consult with other producers I know that I respect. Of my two mentors, one has produced 40 or so pictures and the other has won two Oscars, one for arguably the greatest movie ever made. Or I could to the forum and find a person who doesn't have a single producing credit on IMDb and maybe they can give me their two cents. Does nobody see my logic here?

John Iannucci I went to a 'muse' well before I was ready and got my butt chewed royal. I should have waited until I was farther down the path, at a crossroad. I leaned a lot, but it was too expensive for what I needed at that too-early time.

Thanks guys

I got the best solution... don't pay anyone for feedback. I know some people like to do that but I am not one of them free or otherwise.

I'm not so lucky.

Dan maXx , your offer for a read works out perfect I wrote the script during the 7th inning stretch for a Yankee game.

Sam. This lounge is a good place for new screenwriters to ask for help and there are some people here who can help them.

That's great Dan, but I personally think one should see the track record of someone who offers "help." Their IMDb page is a good way to start. Who have they worked with? I charge for my services - I don't work for free, nor do I know many professionals who do. I also can tell you movies I've written and even some I've rewritten where my name doesn't appear on the film. I wrote, directed and produced a short that qualified for the Oscars. And, I've worked with several Oscar-Winners and Oscar-Nominees. I say that NOT to be pompous, but to say this is my track record. I've also produced 13 pictures, seven features and six shorts, one of which, again qualified for the Oscars. These are just my beliefs. But, someone who doesn't have a writing credit on a film, to me, at least - and it's fine that you disagree - is not the person to go and have give you free notes. I believe you get what you pay for. Now, I have done favors for friends, but they've also done favors for me - working on shoots, finding me a cheap D.P. who's talented, etc, etc, etc. Even when it's free, it's not really free. And, to me, that's okay. What was that the New York Times said? "There is no such thing as a free lunch."

El Paso Herald-Post. 1938.

I stand corrected. Just saw that on Wikipedia, although it also appeared in other Scripps-Howard Newspapers at the same time. Good call, Tony S. ;)

Sam. I am not questioning your qualifications. All I am saying is there are other people here besides you who can offer a new screenwriter help. I don’t care if you charge money or not. I agree people should look people up before asking them for feedback and they can decide who they want feedback from. The only feedback I ever get is from my wife, my editor and my agent in that order.

Dan, My issue is two things: 1. People not wanting to pay for another's work - wanting free services. And, some members above have chimed in with, "People taking advantage of people," simply because they don't want to work for free. And, the second thing, people going to message boards and just being like, "Hey guys, need some free feedback. Help!" They have NO CLUE who they are asking - and again, I stand by what I said, "You get what you pay for." If you want to offer free writing services, that's your prerogative. I've seen people on these boards that have no IMDb page and - from what I can gather - are in their early twenties. "I'll read it. I will give you feedback." Really? You feel this is top-notch feedback? I don't. I think writers - as anyone in this industry, be it actors, writers, directors or producers - should have the proper guidance. You have to have some form of experience - in my opinion - to be giving that sort of advice. Again, just my opinion.

I use coverage ink for all my work. Really happy with them. I once used Shore Scripts but never again. What they sent back didn't even match my screenplay and they basically churned out an executive summary (which was wrong) over 2 pages. Then very little actual helpful advice. Mind you that was when they first started so it may have changed.

Sam, you certainly have a right to your opinion. Certainly you have right to charge for your service. I might read one screenplay a year so it's not like I am trying to get into the script consultant business. That is the last business I would ever want to get into even if I had the time which I don't.

Sam Borowski Didn't know except I knew it wasn't the "Times." Scripps never owned the "Times." Thanks.

Shibu Thomas who did you pay for coverage?

This is a very interesting topic.

To Shibu: Anything is possible for the right price. If you think you are ready for market, take Dan's offer. However, I believe that with a one-day turnaround, you'll get a "Go / No Go" style coverage, not true notes to make your screenplay better.

To all others: I pay for coverage and leverage my mentors for notes. Coverage is all about access and breaking in. On Stage 32, pick the Exec that you want to "sell" your material to. Notes are for improving your material. I do not rely on coverage for feedback, but if I get CONSISTENT comments from them, then it behooves me to consider and potentially incorporate. That beings said, coverage can be short turnaround, again depends on how much you are willing to pay to play. Notes take time and thoughtful analysis.

Dan, Not sure if you realized, but my main business is writing, directing and producing movies, specifically features for theatrical release. I also produce some shorts - usually for Oscar consideration and at the very least, online content and DVD/BLU-RAY (yes, people do put these out). I do script consulting, as well as film consulting on the side. I also have my own acting school, where I teach twice a month. Sadly, I think you missed my point entirely. The problem I see here is that people that say they want to succeed aren't willing to learn things the right way. That's all I'm going to say about that.

Sam, I wasn’t arguing with you. What I was saying is that there is a cottage industry out there that preys on new writers. If you want to charge that’s your prerogative. There are some that are sussessful that don’t.

When I started coaching I befriended two older coaches who rate now in the NFL. Every year th friends. When they charged at outside events they would make 1500 a day. Taught men to pass it on. So as I got a very good reputation across the country I would charge for outside but give free clinics and advice for those I befriended.

It’s the individuals choice.

As for not getting anything from people who do not have an IMDB page - that’s hogwash and belittles everybody who comments on here. You can get advice from anywhere.

I remember - I took a coaching job and didn’t have a QB. The woman’s soccer coach who didn’t know if the ball was stuffed or blown up told me one of my players was a pretty good quarterback in youth ball. He ended up all- league.

Advice can come from all sources - it’s up to the person to sort it out.

PS - those two nfl coaches don’t charge a cent now for advice and clinicing as long as you go to them on their time. Their logic - they are being well paid for the knowledge and time others gave them. Paying it back. It’s what makes this world go round. Storytelling’s been around for a long time. Nobody on this site has the MAGIC RECIPE or is the ultimate guru. Somebody taught them - somebody taught you. Whether you pay or nor. Charge or not is up to the individual. Me - if I ever become good - I intend to pay it back!!!!

I think many people are raising valuable points. Paid coverage led to feedback that led to me making my first (and this far only sale). However, I understand that there are some scam artists out there. My advice is let the buyer beware and double, triple check any coverage or ant other service you might pay for.

I'm just making a supposition here...

A lot of competitions (or FilmFreeway) ask you up front "...Does this script have script coverage?" - And Shibu might be just trying to quickly take care of that. And to Shibu, I would say that if this is the case, in my humble experience it doesn't make much difference. Just say No.

But I'm totally grabbing at straws for a reason for one-day turnaround request.

I've gone to semi-finals with PASS on coverage, knocked out early with CONSIDER. But again - I have no idea why you're asking for 24-hour turnaround.

Sam. You are right I didn’t know what your main business is nor do I care.

hey guys, so i did end up getting my 24 hour coverage. The critique was brutal. He pretty much explained in 2 pages why my story had no structure. I'm glad I sent it to him, because he did offer me an objective view. He's Brian at monumentscripts.com. Came to a couple hundred bucks, but i'm pretty satisfied with the service. If anything i really wanted to know where I stood. I knew my premise was excellent, but there are certain things you cant see very well, when you're so involved in a script, and thats what I paid for someone to look for, and I got it. Thanks for the replies!

Dan - great post - I wanted to say same but in a LONGER gentler message!

John & Dan, I agree with youse guys and when I see a flash of ego - I just run away. Those type of folk are not on my 'must work with' list.

Dan, Professional profile picture. You also might want to learn the difference between a professional movie poster and a home-made flyer. Anyone truly in the business can see. John, perhaps learn some professionalism. You are a true amateur. And, Doug, it's not ego to be professional. You have said plenty of egregious and egotistical things in the past. Also, perhaps give your grammar a once-over. ;)

Also, Dan, where is Legacies Agency located? They don't seem to have an address on IMDb pro? Or a phone number? Or another client? I'm just curious? Is it truly ego to ask an honest question? Most of the agencies and entertainment attorneys I know all have their information readily listed. Why is yours a giant secret? Also, why are you the only client listed on IMDb pro?

Uh oh!

Hey, don't dis the squirrel. There's absolutely nothing wrong with it. I'd say it's a good brand image. Profile pages are not only about sharing information about oneself but about creative expression too. ;)

It's not a weasel! Guess I don't know my rodents. :)

Beth, I think you're AWESOME, and you do an AMAZING JOB, but, we will agree to disagree on this one. To me, it's not professional. I also know what a professional movie poster looks like - and I don't get how people claim to be in the industry and make "flyers" that are not professional. That no producer or studio would take serious. I also was taught by Oscar-Winning producers you don't come on a web-site and say nasty things such as, "I didn't know what your main business is nor do I care." Where does this guy get the courage to be this nasty? I've produced 13 pictures. I don't believe I got nasty before that. My opinion is that a lot of people like to give advice, even if they don't have the experience and I just don't understand where they are getting their perspective from. But, honestly, I am not looking to be nasty to anyone, but at some point, there needs to be a professional opinion. We are doing our best to help one another, correct? I give an opinion and it gets jumped on. This Doug Nelson character chimes in every time someone criticizes me, yet when someone called him a curmudgeon he was not at all pleased - lol. Said he might leave. How is he being productive? He waits for a comment about me and then chimes in - lol. Yes, that's a very adult AND professional thing to do. Not to mention the improper grammar in total. I think a conversation can always be a positive factor, but when people decide to be nasty toward one another, what do they expect in return? I see people with no credits - not a single one - just writing scathing things on here. Yet, what they don't realize is that it's such a small business. Many times I will pass over things on here from people I don't respect - no reason for me to chime in. But, with me, they seem to have to always get a nasty barb in. And, then you have the people who think it's taking advantage of others to charge for your services. Like? What? You should now work for free for a person you've never met on the internet? Honestly? Some of the people whose scripts I've read, rewritten and given notes on, have gotten them made. Some I am in the process of producing. I've helped many people. I just don't work for free, nor do I think anyone really should. Yes, I did that when I first started out - as do others to make connections - and I do get that. But, once you have established yourself - even to some degree -you have to get paid for your services. And, anyone above who thinks that is taking advantage of young writer, is just really not that knowledgeable in the ways of the business. Stage 32 offers writing services and I think that's totally fine. And, a help to many a young writer. Either way, I want to thank you, Beth Fox Heisinger, even if I disagree with you about the "Sinatra Squirrel." ;) You add a level of class, integrity and kindness that this discussion was sorely lacking. So, thank you again! GOD BLESS and STAY FRESH! <3

R.I.P. The Paragraph 1501 - 2018

Keep it in the family. Stage32 has EXCELLENT script coverage.

Sam, with respect and in all fairness, what you deem "professional" does not necessarily mean the same to everyone. I also think there are some misunderstandings here, nastiness aside. I don't see where someone in this thread expects you personally to do anything for free? People are just sharing their opinions and personal experience. Dan G talked about other avenues for feedback and that he himself is not interested in consulting as a paid service. And, Doug, well, he has said that he would leave S32 repeatedly for years... and yet he sticks around. Lol! ;) Me, well, I don't pay for feedback or coverage, either, and won't. No disrespect intended to those who provide such services, nor is that an endorsement either way — to each their own, I say! It's just not something I personally seek or need. I have other avenues. ;) But... like others here at S32, I too try to help screenwriters where I can, point to information and resources, share what I have learned and know, and what knowledge I have from life experience, etc, and yet... by your standards, I am not worthy to offer help either? You know, not everyone can afford to pay for feedback, including me. So I too believe in paying it forward. And forgive me, but I don't see IMDb as the be-all end-all to personal value and worth. It's a database. Everyone must start somewhere, right? Why be dismissive? And, as someone with 15++ professional working experience in advertising, graphics, and brand development, I'll just say I don't agree with you there. Lol! Anyway, thanks for sharing your insights, Sam. Always appreciated. ;)

IMDB therefore I am.

Beth, thank you for your perspective, as I always appreciate it. I will disagree with you about IMDb, though, in terms of those who have made a film. If it's not on there, it doesn't look good. There's no reason for your film not to be listed on IMDb if it is a real film. It serves somewhat as a resume for writers, directors and producers, as well as actors. I don't see anything wrong with referencing it. And, we can agree to disagree on some things. And, as a graphic artist, I know you know what a real movie poster looks like. As for the coverage services? That's what the discussion was about and I was just mentioning it was a service I offer. Yet, there are people above such as John Iannucci, who whined about others ripping writers off. And, that struck a chord with me. Again, I've actually helped many writers get their films made. So, I felt that was inaccurate. I would not say that you are not qualified to give advice, as you are a truly professional person, even if you and I differ on the meaning of "professional," - lol. You come at people in a professional and polite manner and stand up for what you believe in. I respect that. But, you've never been nasty. I respect that, as well. And, as you know, I've always appreciated your efforts. You also know your films, and I've seen you give some excellent advice on movies, certain books to read. I respect that as well. You are substance and not just flash of words. So, If I seem hard on others, I am sorry for that, but sometimes I read things here that, well, for lack of a better term, are bizarre to me. Tony, dynamite drop-ins, by the way. You seem to like to write tiny little barbs that make yourself laugh. Do you have anything else to offer?

And, technically, it should read, IMDb - therefore I am. ;)

Shibu, I'm happy (and surprised) to hear you found someone and that you were happy with the service and feedback. Good for you! ;) But, like Owen, I too wondered if you were seeking review way too early? Don't know how long you've been screenwriting but the review comments you shared made me ponder. Anyway, hopefully it was money well spent. Best to you! ;)

Thanks, Sam. Much appreciated. :)))

Keep it in the family. Stage32 has EXCELLENT script coverage. BTW- Richard "RB" Botto has since founding Stage32 built up some GREAT relationships with over 500 Studio executives, Producers, Managers, Agents & Directors. These are the ones who are doing the EXCELLENT script coverage. So if they like it, it could get made. Really! And you get to pick who you like. All I am saying is just

check it out. We are "Happy Writers" our job is to help each other NOT hurt each other.

Learn paragraphs first, Bud. And others. (As it was too subtle.)

Let's all sway and sing Kumbaya,

Sam. I know that is not a professional profile picture. I do know the difference between a professional movie poster and a homemade flyer but these are book covers from books I adapted except for two that the producer had someone make.

Americana Films and My Own Worst Enemy Productions are the ones who started my IMDb page when I worked for them. I never paid for it and if I had to it wouldn’t be there.

My agent is more into producing nowadays so I am sure she only has a few clients left. I was really thinking about quitting writing screenplays anyway until Judy Norton and I decided to team up and write two screenplays and produce them ourselves. I have one more rewrite to do for a producer I know and then I will probably quit. Maybe I haven't done anything to write home about but I only took this up as a hobby and since then it has only been a sideline job. I am sorry if you took offense at what I said but you brought up all your accomplishments five times in five consecutive posts and disrespected people here like me who offer to read screenplays for free to try and help them. I do agree a professional script consultant can do a better job but after writing 30 screenplays I think I can help a new screenwriter when asked. I don't like to talk about my business but I did want to answer your questions.

Always appreciate your contributions, guidance, and advice, Dan G. I've learned much from you over the years. Thank you so much! :)))

Is this gonna ever die? And no I don’t have an IMDb (remember small b!) page.

Dan G: First, let me say that I hope this concludes the dialogue in a positive and peaceful way. And, let me also say my intention is not to hurt anyone, but rather to help them. I'm sorry that this thread took a turn the way it did. What I have an issue with is people like the above person, chiming in with nasty little, unprofessional and unhelpful barbs. And, yes, I harp on track record a lot. As for saying I brought up my accomplishments five times? Why should that bother you? I'm very proud of them. If that bothers you - and I don't mean this nastily - that's more an issue with you than me. I don't believe I disrespected anyone. And, I do think some of my words were taken out of context. I took issue when John Iannucci started saying: "Preying on hopeful screen writers has become a cottage industry." That's disrespectful to me, Stage 32 and anyone that offers this service. And again, I do this on the side. I am a filmmaker, first and foremost. Have my own production company, housed in its own office. But, to make a blanket statement like that? I've actually helped people not only with honing their craft, but in actually getting their films made. And, for that, I am preying on hopeful screenwriters? If you do your homework and check around - even with a few people here on Stage 32, I've helped them in many ways. I've been fortunate and BLESSED enough to make things happen. So, that's why his blanket statement offended me. Also, I didn't mean every single person when I was talking about people getting advice on these boards. I do feel there is a difference between some people offering advice and others. Beth made some excellent points, which I took note of, however, look at her delivery. She did not insult, get nasty or throw barbs. She stated her points in a powerful and positive manner. She is always gracious, polite and POSITIVE. And, I personally, have seen her many times suggest books, screenwriting software (with no malice or ill will), or certain scenes and movies for people to watch. I readily admit she knows her stuff. We can agree to disagree on things, I just think it doesn't have to go to a nasty level. Once you said, " ..... and I don't care," I felt there was no reason to speak to me like that. However, it was not my intention to disrespect anyone, but I stand by some of the things I said. Why is IMDb an important barometer? It shows you what everyone has done. I've noticed some people on here, who's "accomplishments" don't equal - at least on IMDb or the internet for that matter after an extensive google search - what they say on Stage 32 (and I am not speaking about you here). Why would you NOT want your film listed there? For what reason would it make sense NOT to list it? As for the posters, I understand they may be book covers, but they also are on IMDb and come off as movie posters. Please understand I am VERY PASSIONATE about this business, so when I see things that I feel don't measure up, I point them out. But, in truth, if you hadn't spoken to me the way you did - the tone - I wouldn't have pointed them out. And, yes, as Beth pointed out, people CAN learn and ask questions on this forum. What I do take issue with is people with very little experience, very little business sense or business acumen, poor grammar and inappropriate comments giving advice. I am not speaking about you, Beth or many others here. I also don't think it's wise or helpful for people with very little experience such as the gentleman above, to pick fights with people on a board who they really don't know. It's such a small business. This is longer than I wanted it, but for the record, I am glad you responded and I am sorry if I said anything that hurt your feelings. As for you retiring? Well, that's your call. Me, I love this business. I love telling stories. I love entertaining and educating through the medium of film - or digital as it may be, these days. And, honestly? I hope you discover you do, as well. I would hate to think anything I said pushed you in a negative direction. I am a very spiritual person and I really am positive, but sometimes, I get so passionate about this business. If you are ever in NYC or we are in LA at the same time, or I am in your neck of the woods, I'd buy you the libation of your choice. Truth be told, if we sat down and had a couple of beers, I think we would understand each other much better. I really did my best to make this positive. You can disagree with anything I said, but these are my thoughts and feelings. In the end, I hope they helped. If you are still here on STAGE 32 - no reason for you to quit. Means you still have that spark. ONWARD AND UPWARD, GOD BLESS and STAY FRESH! <3

Sam and all,

I wasn’t gonna reply as I feel this has gone on too long, but I feel Sam’s post makes it necessary.

First of all my “cottage industry” comment was meant to disparage this site or anybody on it. (I don’t think anybody but Sam took it that way.) Sam, you even agreed with it when you stated one has to do background checks. If that is necessary there’s a lot of bad sites then. (People using people has always been a pet peeve.)

I take exception to the unprofessional and nobody would work with me comments. Yeah, I’m new to this idea, having returned to it in the third act of my life after a very successful career in my first bliss, but in no way does that make me those.

In my life (I am older) I have met some very very successful people in various fields, the common bond was their humility. They did not wear their accomplishments as a billboard. In many cases another person at the table would have to say - do you know who that was?

As I said Ihave had success in my other field, I do not define myself by that. I define myself by the person I am and what I did for other people and society. I do not wear my championship rings and am currently in the process of throwing out a number of stored tarnished awards. What I do from here on is way more important that the past.

I can only hope to have the success you have had in this profession. That is what neither I or I think others take exception to. It’s the way you throw it out there. People are not jealous as O said I can only hope to accomplish what you have in this field and I commend you. That are though skeptical and turned off by braggarts.

You disparage everybody else when you say get their IMDb page before you listen to them. Half the people on here don’t have such a page. I listen to everyone. I can learn from everyone. I got that from my reading of biographies. I will listen too a homeless man on the street. God gave everybody gifts (although he didn’t give everybody an IMDb page) To not listen is to deny yourself some of the greatest opportunities of life.

You need to have faith you can sort out advise yourself. Yes I do look at profile pages afterwards, but that doesn’t mean I throw out the others because they didn’t win an Oscar. Congrats on that by the way. (I AM VERY SURPRISED BY THE SUCCESS OF THE WRITERS IN THIS SITE WHO YOU HAVE TO LOOK UP TO FIND OUT)

In conclusion, Nobody os jealous or dislikes your work, but they are tired of hearing it.

Sam you forgot you were starting out once, people helped you and I hope you didn’t have to bow to them when they did.

Also lighten up and enjoy. Yes it’s a profession but like I said it doesn’t define who you are. Be able to make fun of yourself - it is one of life’s greatest gifts

Sam,. I mean all this sincerely, not with any meanness.

I apologize to all the others for taking up your time. I promise I will not continue with this regardless.

John, I believe what you intended to say is that you did not mean to disparage this site nor anyone on it. I certainly did not perceive your posts that way. As I said before there seems to be some misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and possible assumptions going on here. And, John, you are right. There are a lot of people and anonymous services calling themselves "consultants" or offering script coverage who are indeed taking advantage of new writers and/or the desperate. They are doing much damage. Writers should do their due diligence to find those that are truly qualified. I share your perspective as an aspiring writer. And it should not be dismissed. Falsity is something we aspiring folks are confronted with and see everywhere. I'm actually blown away by all the nonsense and the amount of bullshit out there. Again, you gotta find those people who are sincere, qualified, who know story, who have working experience, who know the market, and who come from a place of mutual respect -- something IMDb cannot tell you. So get out there and meet people. People who do this for a living. Anyway, like all oversimplifications, they rather miss all the complexities. And in a forum it is sometimes difficult to express, discuss, and acknowledge those complexities and different perspectives. We're all just doing our best. :)

As usual thank you Beth and yes I meant to say not disparage.

Shibu, my apologies for hijacking your thread. Again, I'm happy you found what you were looking for. Should you have other questions, about craft or whatever, please feel free to post them. Best to you!

Thanks Beth