I have been cold-querying producers who have done films in the mode of a script I am marketing.
I have a logline, some blank space, and then: "MORE" :below which is a short synopsis of the script, all followed by my IMDB link as well as a link to a film made from a previous script.
I just received this response:
"No interest in “Dramedy”, so don’t send me a short synopsis that I haven’t read and won’t read. A log line is an idea for a story, where a synopsis is an unsolicited description. No serious producer wants unsolicited material."
Should queries ONLY contain a logline?
Thanks in advance!
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My recommendation would be the non-query query. You need to ask if you can send ANY IP to a producer before sending anything. Something short, describe the genre (not the story), say something remarkable (and honest) about yourself, then send. Personally, I would never send even a logline in a cold query.
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Ive had success sending a cheesy 1-page pitch deck. Basically a brief Act 1, Act 2, Act 3 summary with pictures of how I see the movie. The page looks like a comic book.
i insert the pitch deck PDF into the body of the query.
Either my query is deleted, no response or send. I have never been scolded for a query. Whoever sent you back that response is an asshat but movie making is full of asshats, grifters, nay sayers. Lots of NO people.
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I've been trying for 15 years and barely got an answer from anyone. It's kind of rude.
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Yes. ONLY a logline.
Same as it ever was.
Kay Luke so you agree with the use of that format in the link you attached?
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Keep in mind the Producer's point-of-view. Every Producer has a comfort level; be it budget, genre or whatever, and there are jillions of scripts floating around - all clamoring for attention. The Producer must figure out a way to filter all these scripts in order to find just one that is worthy of his/her efforts. It's like taking a sip from a fire hose.
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Kay, thanks for the comment. That is my thinking exactly when I query. The logline is at the very top and in big bold and will be seen without having to scroll. I do leave some space and then IF it has caught interest a short synopsis is below. Saves time for both of us. And you're right, if the log doesn't interest it can simply be deleted.
Ah! I see, Kay. I understand what you're saying, and I can see the logic behind it. You've really got a wealth of knowledge. Can only imagine what it must be like being around, and working with industry professionals at that level.
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My Agent sends query letters out and they read like the one's Kay posted here. When I was motivated which I'm not anymore I would call producers up and ask them if I could send them a brief synopsis or the screenplay itself. That worked pretty good for me.
Hmm... this might be what I need. Thank you. :) I now know what I must do.