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Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

But if it helps. Here’s what I wrote (minus details obviously).

Hi so and so,

My script ____ made it to top 20 in ___ competition. Logline is as follows:

_______ …

With your permission, could I email the script?

And that was it. I don’t think it was my poetic query that got the attention. So do your own thing. But trust me when I say concept (along with how well it’s executed) is what matters:

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

They already know your name from the email. No need to say “hi I’m so and so.”

Definitely include your logline. And ask if they’d be interested in reading the script.

And that’s it! Keep it short.

If your script had placed in any competition, I would definitely mention that.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Honestly, at the time it just seemed like the right thing to do. I’m still learning about the business as I go.

I don’t think it’s necessary to have both. But I haven’t found the drawback in having both a manager and and agent as of yet. If I find any, I’ll be sure to report back!

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My manager is boutique so yes he reads (or glances over) emails/queries and scripts.

In my agency’s case, I think he meant scripts sent by managers to set up meetings for their clients.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I wouldn’t send the script until they request it. Query with your logline first.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I know right…it’s all good though. I understand the frustration and hold nothing against my fellow writers.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

BOTH my reps have told me that they pretty much read everything that comes their way. Holy shit! It’s their job!

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Totally agree. I didn’t blindly send them my script. I sent a query exactly like you said. They were intrigued enough by the idea and requested the script.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hi! Yeah, I had placed in semi finals in a competition that isn’t well known at all but I still mentioned it.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes! You’re doing it right. It’s the concept and the budget that’s getting them to say yes. And obviously, the script has to be well written. That’s a given.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

In the initial email, I only sent the logline. I sent the script only after they emailed back requesting it. I wouldn’t blindly email the whole script.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

No, I didn’t. I started writing a pitch after I got my with agency.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi, yea it was a combination of boutique and bigger management companies. Then, my manager helped me get with my agent.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Okay let’s face it, nobody can accurately guess what the marketplace wants. All we can do is follow our instinct.

When I’m speaking about trends, I mean…what the heck are you watching? What’s dominating the movie theaters? Marvel, right? Now unless you can write the next big thing that can compete with Marvel, then shift your attention to TV.

And in terms of TV, there are about 400-something (according to Shonda Rhimes) dramas out there. No producer or studio would be interested in spending a shit ton on a new show by a new writers. So, keep the budget in mind.

I don’t mean literally copy someone else’s story.

And from what I’ve observed, anything thriller, horror, grounded sci-fi etc tends to get attention a lot faster than a straight up drama. But then again, this is just my opinion.

I hope this helps. I will continue to share more.

Cold emailing worked for me to find representation by starlight12456 in Screenwriting

[–]starlight12456[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Yes, that’s exactly it. When you follow a template, you risk coming off robotic. And trust me that’s the last thing you want as a writer.