Insightful Resources on Spec Scripts for Aspiring Screenwriters
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Go Into The Story
The "Go Into The Story" platform has become an essential destination for screenwriters aiming to create and sell spec scripts. This resource comprises a detailed 20-part series that offers critical insights and guidance for writers navigating the industry.
Celebrating its 14th anniversary on May 16, 2022, "Go Into The Story" began as a modest blog with aspirations of growing into a vital resource for those passionate about storytelling. Over the years, it has transformed into a thriving community, recently awarded the title of "Best of the Best" Scriptwriting Website by the 20th Annual Writer's Digest.
To commemorate this milestone, a special series of trivia and writing resources will be featured throughout May. With more than 100 archived topics available, the goal is to provide both new followers and long-time readers with useful tools to enhance their writing skills.
Today's trivia highlights an interesting citation: in the Fall 2016 issue of the Georgetown Journal of Legal Ethics, "Go Into The Story" was referenced in the article "THE [UNTOLD] BUSINESS OF SHOW BUSINESS," focusing on the impact of Hollywood's customs on entertainment attorneys. The cited article was about "Sweepstakes Pitching, Prewrites, and One-Step Deals."
As part of today's resource, we present "Everything You Wanted to Know About Specs." With my background in selling a spec script and continuous tracking of the spec market, I conducted a series of interviews with industry professionals and top managers in June 2013, addressing various aspects of the spec script landscape.
Chapter 2: The Evolution of Spec Scripts
In this section, we will explore the historical context and the development of the spec script market:
- Part 1: Tracing the origins of the spec script in Hollywood from 1900 to 1942.
- Part 2: Understanding the rise of the spec script market from 1942 to 1990.
- Part 3: Analyzing the fluctuations of the market from 1990 to 2012.
Section 2.1: Key Players in the Market
In this section, we will examine the various buyers involved in the spec script market, including major studios and financial backers.
Subsection 2.1.1: The Screenwriter-Representative Dynamic
Understanding the relationship between screenwriters and their representatives is crucial for developing a successful spec script.
Section 2.2: Strategies for Success
Here, we will delve into several strategies to enhance a new writer's prospects, including:
- The importance of attaching producers and talent.
- Generating buzz for your script through effective marketing.
Each day this month, I would like to express my gratitude for your continued support of "Go Into The Story." Please feel free to share your experiences and favorite features of the blog. Suggestions are always welcome!