i have got 2 scripts (a crime/thriller series and a comedy short film) and was wondering what gives a script its price and what is the best way to sell? i have posted many times about my scripts and wanting to sell them and have fell to the question how do i make sure its a legit sale and not someone trying to steal my script?
Screenwriting : What is the best way to sell? by Arthur Needham
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Hi, Arthur Needham. I’m a Stage 32 Lounge Moderator. I wanted to let you know I moved your post from the Financing/Crowdfunding Lounge to the Screenwriting Lounge since it's about selling scripts. Let me know if you have any questions.
The length of a script is one of the things that determines how much someone will pay for a script (Example: a short script will usually sell for less than a feature script). And a producer, director, etc. might be willing to pay more for a script that has a unique concept.
My biggest tip is network/build relationships (online and in person). It could lead to script requests, meeting requests, etc. Stage 32 has a blog that'll help you connect with creatives and industry professionals (www.stage32.com/blog/the-importance-of-community-and-collaboration-in-th...).
Doing your research on a person who wants to buy your script and hiring an entertainment lawyer to read the contract will help you know if it's a legit sale.
I suggest registering your scripts with the Copyright Office where you live, but it depends on the copyright laws in your country. You might not need to register your scripts.
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If your scripts aren't in the best English, it would be wise to work on that. Would you like to send a short excerpt so I can advise you?
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Spec script sales aren't really how most screenwriters build a career. They are statistically rare, especially for unknown writers. It's best to see a spec as a writing sample that will help get assignment work.
A lot of screenwriting communities obsess over the concept. It's a huge distraction.
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CJ Walley what do you mean obsessing over concept is a bad thing?
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Obsessing over the concept of selling a spec.
There is this axiom within all the screenwriting communities that anybody can pick up their laptop, write a script, and sell it to Hollywood for millions, and then be welcomed in to work with major producers, with a big studio budget, while showered in with respect from their peers, and walk away with a lot of credit for the film's brilliance, which of course will go on to receive Oscars after dominating the movie theatres.
It's it's possible, it's highly improbable, and people pursuing this fantasy are so blinkered they miss out on having an actual writing career.
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CJ Walley Oh yeah, obviously. I’m focused on selling at first because of my financial situation and to build a bit of a reputation. From there, I want to start working on my own stuff. I know it’ll take a few sales, but I’ve gotta have a plan.