Screenwriting : Biopics by Dennis Stockton

Dennis - I disagree. For instance, I talked with a writer a few weeks ago who had obtained the film rights to a popular book from a few decades ago and was setting out to turn it into a screenplay. The writer didn't have a lot of experience, so this sort of class might be helpful. And if the script is good, and the writer has the proper paperwork in place (which she said she did) I don't see any reason why an agent/manager or producer wouldn't be willing to look at the project, especially since it's based on something that was once very popular.

Absolutely, unequivocally disagree. (With Dennis, not Ashley)

Well, folks, here are quotes from Danny Manus: "There's a difference between writing a period piece [which includes many true stories, biopics, and adaptations] as a great writing sample and writing one to sell." "For the last few years, anyone will tell you that the number one genre that is impossible to sell - is drama! And period dramas? Fuhgedaboutit. "

Well since I was mentioned, I guess I should comment. There is a BIG difference between a period piece drama and a biopic or true story or adaptation. The latter projects don't HAVE to be a period piece (or dramatic). And the former doesn't HAVE to be a true story. I do think that if you are writing your OWN true story or auto-biopic, producers probably aren't going to care unless you are well-known, have a fan base, or your story has media coverage or buzz (like with 127 Hours for instance). It is true that dramas and period dramas have been incredibly hard sells (arguably the hardest sell for a new writer), and they probably shouldn't write it as a first script, but that has nothing to do with writing adaptations or true stories. The problem most first time writers have with adaptations, is that they don't own the rights to the things they try to adapt. And for what it's worth, the key to writing biopics, true stories and adaptations - is FOCUS. This is the second biggest issue writers have. They try to cover the WHOLE story or life instead of focusing it onto the actual portions/timeline of the story where there is something compelling, visual and commercial happening.

Good post, Danny. I particularly agree with this: The problem most first time writers have with adaptations, is that they don't own the rights to the things they try to adapt. A question that get raised at every screenwriting panel I've been on...

Thanks for you comment, Danny. But is not a period piece a story that occurs in the past, thus requiring the set director and costume designer to acquire period props and clothing? Would not a biopic, even if the person is living, have to focus some part of the story in the past? (An exception might be a biopic of a youngster, if anyone would attempt that.) Therefore, would not a biopic be a period piece?

No, not necessarily. Plus, a period piece is really considered to be anything that is earlier than the 1980s. There are plenty of true stories or biopics that are recent or even present day stories. 127 Hours, Fifth Estate, etc. Don't worry about the set director and costume designer though - just worry about telling the best and most commercial story you can.

Danny: thank you for quantifying "period piece." Andrew: you might find this quote interesting. It was written years ago (not by me) on the Done Deal Pro Message Board: "Agents only want or expect a 'ready-made' deal handed to them by someone they already know, so unless you have one 'in your pocket' forget trying to coax or cojole them into reading your 'newbie' script. And forget 'screenwriting contests.' All they are about is the entrance fees, and subsequent 'writing consultations.' Another new and frequent scam is the phony producer, agent, or lawyer, who talks-up your screenplay, only to suggest he write you a 'business plan' for a fee, so he can submit it to his contacts and investors. Total B.S. Beware. If anyone disagrees with the above...PROVE ME WRONG!"

Screenwriting Contests can be a perfectly legit way to break in, many many have done so. Anyone who thinks ALL contests are bullshit has an agenda of their own. You just have to make sure they are prestigious, national, contests that Hollywood actually cares about. The rest of what was said I think has merit but again, there are no hard and fast rules, especially from people on DDP

Dan, you are a lucky man! I trust you received permission from the authors without paying an up-front fee.