Screenwriting : Linkedin by Steven Gibson

Describe "Hollywood"... It's a meaningless word. Just connect with the people that could mean something to your film project/screenplay (whatever you're trying to achieve). And don't clusterfuck it. That's all.

I just did a bit of research regarding Best Picture Winners. Most independently produced. These producers may have instant distribution deals through some studios.

But Hollywood as a destination has never attracted me.

bad business for "Hollywood producers" to accept unsolicited material from strangers off a website. Now, if you really want to meet Hollywood players, attend a Los Angeles AA meeting. Plenty of Exes, actors, agents, filmmakers there recovering from addictions/DUI arrests.

Never tried connecting with a Hollywood Producer but a few have connected with me.

There you go. Send it to Doug for a warm call.

A few do accept cold queries, and I did get a script request from one of those. So, a major company is now reading the script. The chances that it will move forward are still extremely slim, but it is encouraging all the same.

I'm connected with some scary powerful people on LinkedIn. I don't bother them unless it's me reaching out to offer them a favour. I've got a few people who I check in with too.

Pestering or creeping around industry members is just such a self-defeating strategy. They're business people and human beings. They don't want anybody flooding their inbox with requests or trying to worm into their personal lives by sneaking into the same room. Don't behave like this. You're just going to end up getting blocked out their lives for good. Those at the top literally pay people to keep them away from this nonsense.

If you are trying to query or get a meeting, be succinct and professional but not too sycophantic. If they're open to it, your message will be being read by someone and put through. If they are interested, they will respond.

Honestly, even as a complete nobody in the industry it's really quite freaky and disturbing to be on the other side. Most people are charming and reaching out in a decent way but there's like twenty-percent who are pests/stalkers/creeps that make you want to change your name and go live in the woods.

There's also a culture and a system in place where access to the right people opens up as you prove your worth and raise your status. Trying to get in an elevator with someone so they're cornered is just disrespectful and self-centred.

Sorry to rant but I've watched so many people firebomb their own opportunities out of desperation and impatience.

CJ brings up a good point. Some don't think about their actions on the other side. If you have the skills and the talent, just be patient. Eventually it will be your time to shine.

Perhaps stay away from Linkedin. For me it's too cold there of high egos trying hard to not lose their place in line. Stage32, is more like-minded collection of many creatives in the Film Industry that you may connect with for better results. Facebook and Twitter both have writing groups to chill with. Keep writing, keep getting involved with people in the Film Industry that will encourage and work with you.