How to Break Out as a Screenwriter

Shooting your script involves finding actors and directing.

As a budding screenwriter, you have dreams of writing the next blockbuster film or acclaimed television program or being nominated for an award. You may envision writing scripts seen via the Web or communication devices. Regardless of how people view your production, you likely also plan to write scripts for indie productions to keep your “street cred” once you become a success. Whatever your goals, breaking out as a screenwriter takes hard work. It’s not for the shy, the reclusive or the dreamers. Although there’s no one particular guaranteed avenue to break into screenwriting, you do have some options to pursue.

Instructions

1. Study screenwriting. Screenwriters compose scripts used by actors in film or television. You can review screenwriting trade magazines to keep abreast of the industry and learn more about the craft.

2. Write a script. Hire actors and make a video. Post the video online on a social media site or website which allows amateur screenwriters to post scripts.

3. Enter screenwriting contests. Look for the prestigious national contests with prizes and more than one person judging. You should submit to contests with prizes that include meeting with an executive or agent.

4. Graduate with a degree in screenwriting. Attending college allows you to learn more about the business, acquire formal training on writing scripts and complete an internship. You also network with other students, alumni and professional screenwriters. To break out in screenwriting, you have to make connections.

5. Relocate to Los Angeles or New York. Although you can make it as a screenwriter in any part of the world, you have a better chance to make it where movies and television shows are produced. Work as an assistant, manager, agent or in a development executive’s office. You want to earn a living while networking.

Tips & Warnings

• Networking with other movie and television professionals is the main way to break into screenwriting. If you can’t afford four years of college -- or you don’t have the patience -- take screenwriting classes instead. To break out in screenwriting, you need to meet people who can help you.

• As of May 2010, the mean salary for a writer was $65,960 per year, reports the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Don’t pitch your script via social media to a movie or television executive or agent. You don’t want to acquire negative attention. Instead create a newsletter or blog to get your name out there. If you’re determined on pitching your script, investigate online screenwriting query sites. You may have some success.

• Don’t enter any screenwriting contests where the rules include signing over rights to your script or any future scripts. Also, check out the judges. You want to make sure the contest has judges who are experienced in the industry.

References

• Filmmakeriq.com; How to Break in from the Outside; Daniel Manus; November 2010
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Authors, Writers, and Editors
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: 27-3043 Writers and Authors