How to Become a Screenwriter for Cartoons

There's more to becoming a screenwriter for cartoons than knowing how to put together a screenplay. Actually writing the screenplay is the easy part. Breaking into the business is a challenge. If you have a screenplay for a cartoon ready to go, then getting someone in the movie business to read it is the best way to become a cartoon screenwriter. Before you send it off, however, knowing where to send it and what to expect can help you get your script into the right hands.

Instructions

1. Write your spec script for an established cartoon. Spec is short for speculation, meaning it isn't a script written by request. Without a lot of experience, getting an original cartoon script purchased can be difficult. A quicker way into the business of cartoon screenwriting is to demonstrate your writing skills. Odds are good your script won't be purchased, but that isn't your initial goal. The goal is to use this spec script to secure an agent, who will have the contacts needed to pitch your skills to cartoon production companies. Be sure you have a completed, error-free script before you begin submitting.

2. Secure an agent. Do this by getting an agent to read your script. This can be as challenging as getting a Hollywood producer to read your script, but there are no shortcuts. You don't absolutely have to have an agent, because you can pitch to producers yourself, but the odds lean more in your favor when you have an agent showing interest in your work. Find agents using reputable resources, such as Virtual Pitchfest or the Hollywood Creative Directory. These resources aren't free, but they are tried-and-true methods of reaching the agents and producers. Another is to attend one of the many pitch festivals that take place each year. Still another is to enter your screenplay into contests.

3. Write a pitch when you find agents or producers who are looking for the type of work you do. The pitch is as important as the screenplay itself. You are selling your idea. The pitch should include a log line and a synopsis of the story. The log line is one sentence that that sums up the story. An example: Tom loses a big fish on a fishing expedition when Jerry shows up on the hook instead. Follow this with between five and ten paragraphs that outlines the entire story written in present tense. Do not send this pitch to anyone unless it is requested. The exception is Virtual Pitchfest, where you pay for pitches and there is a guaranteed response from the agent or producer you pitch.

References

• Writer's Weekly: How to Successfully Query Your Screenplay
• Screenwriter's Daily: How to Pitch a Cartoon Script

Resources

• Virtual Pitchfest
• Hollywood Creative Directory
• MovieBytes: Annual Screenwriting Contests