Advice To A Screenwriter Who Doesn’t Have An Agent Or Manager by Mark Heidelberger

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 ม.ค. 2025

ความคิดเห็น • 128

  • @tonyoallie
    @tonyoallie 6 ปีที่แล้ว +123

    This dude just gave the golden advice in Hollywood to get anything you want done. It's all on who you know. Period... End of advice... Go out and network.

    • @notmyrealname11
      @notmyrealname11 6 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Brandon Tilghman Honestly, talent is great to have, but I don’t think it’s as necessary to having a career in film as your network. Just look at all of the movies that have been made recently. Some of them were good and a few were great, but the vast majority weren’t that good, but they got made, not because of talent, but because of who they knew.

    • @ClintLoweTube
      @ClintLoweTube 6 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Tonyo Allie That's true, but my favorite comment was 'talent will always be recognized.' Just cause I'm best mates with James Cameron he still won't make my story a movie - unless it's the best story available.

    • @ClintLoweTube
      @ClintLoweTube 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Not My Real Name So we need talent and a network - think I'm screwed on both😢

    • @notmyrealname11
      @notmyrealname11 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      That saying is great at giving people hope, but I don't know that talent will ALWAYS be recognized, mostly because, in a lot of ways, talent is subjective. There are plenty of people that I find to be talented but others don't, and vice versa. But the thing that always finds its way to the top is work ethic and tenacity. I think talent is great to have, but it's such an overrated concept that ends up holding a lot artists back because they fear that they lack "talent", but most of the work of art is just consistently showing up.

    • @DirectedByRocko
      @DirectedByRocko 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      This is the golden advice

  • @InspireCreate43
    @InspireCreate43 6 ปีที่แล้ว +92

    Anyone else feeling stuck in a small town as a writer? Videos like this make me excited and ready to move even more..

    • @OhtheSuffering
      @OhtheSuffering 6 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Justin Varda Get to it, man. For more than five years, I felt exactly what you described. But this summer I’m finally moving down to LA.

    • @InspireCreate43
      @InspireCreate43 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      OhtheSuffering That's awesome, from one writer to another, I'm happy for you. It's a work in progress but I'm getting there, just waiting to get my license back in a few months and I'll finally be on my way.

    • @wolfgangbuck841
      @wolfgangbuck841 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      All you can do is go for it and take all the bad with the good. At least you try. Screw the haters. They make me laugh and write better.

    • @C.Church
      @C.Church 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      OhtheSuffering. Please don't... there isn't enough parking. ;)

    • @InspireCreate43
      @InspireCreate43 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      C Ch Cool how about you move and you lend over your place for rent?? ;)

  • @a.s.alfred9975
    @a.s.alfred9975 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Sending script to agent: Unsolicited submission not accept. Submit only if you have industrial references. Sending script to producer: Unsolicited submission not accepted. Submit through recognised agent.

  • @KadejahG
    @KadejahG 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    No there’s a difference between self esteem and self entitlement. What he’s describing is entitlement feeling like your owed something.

    • @jayc5756
      @jayc5756 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Exactly

    • @nomecognome8737
      @nomecognome8737 ปีที่แล้ว

      The problem is that's what self esteem is perceived as. Which is why it fucks with people's mind

  • @SDwilly
    @SDwilly 6 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    self-esteem is not the way you defined it.

  • @Upploadz
    @Upploadz 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you FC for sending me the links to these specific interviews: Agents / Screenwriting contests. It’s helpful to hear the pros speak on which screenwriting contests are legitimate. 😎

  • @bt10ant
    @bt10ant 5 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    Take a screenwriting class, even if you feel you don't need it. You'll be with others who may know someone either now or in the future. In the 80's I took a class at UCLA and they brought in the screenwriters for "Wargames" as guests for one night--Walter F. Parkes and Larry Lasker. Parkes is now a major producer and I was lucky enough to keep in contact with him. You just never know....

    • @sicilyny5375
      @sicilyny5375 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      A long time ago, I took a screenwriting class in college. We were assigned to write an episode for a TV show either playing on TV or just ended.
      I wrote a sequel to All in The Family when Gloria comes back to live with Archie with her child..she's divorced from Meathead. I also wrote one for an action TV show, Matt Houston...this was 1979-1980.
      My prof loved them and submitted my Matt Houston one to producers. They were going to use it but chose the one a writer already on the show wrote. I was so proud that I almost did it.
      Now 100 yrs later, like starting over. I write short stories and novels but I think all my stories as if I'm seeing it on film, that's how I write.
      My goal is to get more published( journals and college journals) enough to get an agent, so I can submit an idea for a TV movie for a streaming company..Hallmark, Amazon Prime, Hulu, or Tubi.
      I'm thinking I need an agent before attempting this.
      It's been too damn long and I'm ready to soar. Ever since Jr high, my teachers have been telling me I've got talent and I know I do. I write very down to earth, as if I'm talking to you right now. My characters are relatable and my ideas are not the same old story you've seen 100x, so, it's time for me. Life got in the way, some bad hardships and horrible marriages, illness and time slipped by.
      No more..I'm ready and anxious to go. Remember me.

  • @ClintLoweTube
    @ClintLoweTube 6 ปีที่แล้ว +37

    Talent will always be recognized. Best comment!

    • @Fireeater-rl4ep
      @Fireeater-rl4ep 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @Steve Ross Preach! They also discriminate against different political, religious, or personal views. Anything, really, that doesn't conform to their agenda. "Tolerant", they say. "Inclusive", they say. What a pile of lies! #DrainTheHollywoodSwamp

  • @anetaczupa6306
    @anetaczupa6306 5 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I love this phrase "Self -esteem movement has done more to harm young kids than help them."

    • @takingitonedayatatime7851
      @takingitonedayatatime7851 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hell yeah 💯

    • @user-yb8vr2ip2t
      @user-yb8vr2ip2t 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Typical Rightie bs

    • @KernelHughes
      @KernelHughes ปีที่แล้ว

      A person's value shouldn't be predicted on talent. Value should come from just being a person.

  • @Insertquartertocontinue
    @Insertquartertocontinue 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I’m definitely at the stage of wondering if I’m good enough. I hate looking for feedback from friends and family because they don’t want to hurt your feelings. I want to start entering in competitions but I don’t feel like anything would come from them. So I like the video, but I just started writing scripts a year ago, so I’m not about to waste money against people that went to school and/or did it all their lives.

    • @the-seed-sower761
      @the-seed-sower761 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Keep pushing bro

    • @JohnnnyM0124
      @JohnnnyM0124 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I did it bro n I just said fuck it, if I lose but they said my script was good that’s a plus (pay extra to have the ppl judging the competition give you a honest review with zero bias) but if you make the cut weather it’s the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd round then u doing the damn thing. Never be afraid of a challenge bro you only get better when you actually gotta work for it. If it’s too easy it ain’t fun💯

    • @user-yb8vr2ip2t
      @user-yb8vr2ip2t 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Take classes and get harsh, honest, real feedback.

  • @highvibr
    @highvibr 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    It is a great point on thinking "I am really good" as opposed to others thinking you are really good. But then the confidence to approach people, which he mentions as a great point (and I totally agree with it) comes from that very attitude of believing that one is really good. Hummm.... I wish there was a way to get one while avoiding another.

    • @C.Church
      @C.Church 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Aneta Takh . Get one and avoid what? I'm confused.

    • @jeremysnowden2836
      @jeremysnowden2836 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I hear you. I think having faith in your potential is the precursor to confidence and building the right connections.

  • @Met9171
    @Met9171 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi,as a writer do you have to copyright a script even if you don't know if it will sell or accepted by productions?and do you have to complete the rest of the movie before handing it over/pitching to the production?If not then how must you have done your copyright?

    • @sicilyny5375
      @sicilyny5375 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Same questions...getting a few books updated on this subject.

  • @wornoutwoman38
    @wornoutwoman38 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    What if you're not in Hollywood and don't have the capability to network?

    • @filmcourage
      @filmcourage  5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Looks like you have access to the internet. Using the power of the internet is one suggestion. Another thought is to do what you can to bring people value in your real life and online. When you bring people value it leads to its own opportunities. We think it's also a better way to connect with people.

    • @user-yb8vr2ip2t
      @user-yb8vr2ip2t 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Competitions.

  • @meg-k-waldren
    @meg-k-waldren 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for the upload.

  • @eriksmith2514
    @eriksmith2514 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    So the screenwriter needs to pitch the agent before the agent pitches for the screenwriter?

    • @rayejohnson992
      @rayejohnson992 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I would think so, yes. Because he/she wants to make sure your material is good before they go and forward it to someone else. Remember they represent you so it's their reputation on the line as well.

    • @eriksmith2514
      @eriksmith2514 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      You miss the point. The fact one must be a good pitcher so another pitcher can pitch for him, shows that the industry is b.s. and is willing to ditch talented first-timers.

    • @rayejohnson992
      @rayejohnson992 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Erik Smith I hear you but I don't think that's what that is. I think the reason they press you get an agent so hard is because nobody wants to take a chance on you because they don't know you. But maybe if you have someone who has experience (an agent) it's more likely they are willing to take a chance on your project. It's like your walking down the block with a buddy of yours and he really needs to pee. You notice you guys are on a block of one of your friend's house. You take your buddy to your friend's house and you (the agent) asks for your friend (the pitcher) to use the bathroom. And the owner of the house (producer) let's him in because he trusts you. You two are friends. But, if the (pitcher) just knocked on his door randomly to use the bathroom without your presence (the agent), he would not let him in because (the pitcher) is a stranger. And he wouldn't take a chance letting a stranger in his home. 😁😁

    • @sicilyny5375
      @sicilyny5375 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@rayejohnson992 very strange analogy but effective.

  • @marieb5251
    @marieb5251 6 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Did he just say that self-esteem is "thinking you're owed something just because you're unique"? This person is either ignorant or extremely confused.

    • @heliotropicsquirrel550
      @heliotropicsquirrel550 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      No, you are. Stay out of the harsh light of truth, snowflake. Lol!

    • @ReservoirDolphin
      @ReservoirDolphin 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Marie B I think those two qualities are separate but if a person isn’t careful they can definitely start feeling like they’re owed something. I don’t think he’s too far off base.

    • @C.Church
      @C.Church 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      The truth lies between your assessment and helicopter's left field name calling..
      The self esteem stuff he said rang false to me, too. But then I realized that instilling self esteem in kids without shoring it up with lessons in perseverance has led to this perversion of "self esteem is entitlement just because I want it" addressed in the video.
      An Australian judge once sent a kid to contempt of court jail a few years ago after warning everyone to turn off their phones. Instead of appropriate apology or due discomfort at his mistake, the kid/defendant nonchalantly said "my bad" when his phone rang some time later, and casually turned it off. While he was being carted off, the judge made a small speech about how kids are now being taught about their rights, which is good. But little or no emphasis is being put on the responsibilities that come with these rights. I'll never forget that wisdom as a root to the problem.
      So yes, unfortunately, many now believe that they are owed "just because I am me."

    • @sicilyny5375
      @sicilyny5375 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      More like arrogant and a dream buster. You have to have self esteem, skill, creativity and be willing to do the hard work..discipline. That's my only flaw..working on it.

  • @amelyagoldy
    @amelyagoldy 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for sharing this valuable video

  • @JJSeattle
    @JJSeattle ปีที่แล้ว

    Confidence? I stopped taking screenwriting classes because students would direct questions to me about story for visual media instead of the instructor (instructors would feel bad when they're supposed to be the instructor and getting a grip of money for it). I've been studying, writing and rewriting for 25+ years and yet to find my scripts a home (though A list directors and writers have phoned me about my writing, and came close to some options/purchase)...this last week, I did enter my first screenwriting contest ever, called Austin Film Festival, so we'll find out in 6 months (end of 2023) if anything happens.

    • @michaelsix9684
      @michaelsix9684 ปีที่แล้ว

      Austin Film fest now gets over 14,000 scripts each yr. I entered it several times when submissions were below 9000 scripts, I found out the readers don't get paid to read submissions, does this affect your chances of winning , still don't know, good luck

    • @JJSeattle
      @JJSeattle ปีที่แล้ว

      @michaelsix9684 I didn't advance - BUT a reader admitted they don't care about about writing, "Just glance over 100 to qualify for my free badge pass." Think about that.

  • @thatguybehindtheglass
    @thatguybehindtheglass 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    This was actually really disheartening. I really love to write and people seem to really enjoy my writing, but this...is just a kick to the nuts of my soul. I live in North Carolina, I don't fucking know ANYONE. So that's it? Just fuck my dreams, my passion and my one true talent because I didn't have the opportunity to uproot my life?

    • @racqynathiri856
      @racqynathiri856 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      i live in NC too fucking sucks here. I’M LEAVING
      my stories are my tickets OUT! place is AWFUL

    • @thatguybehindtheglass
      @thatguybehindtheglass 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@racqynathiri856 It really fucking is just the worst sometimes. The only other writers I know around here are the kind of people who write thinly-veiled stories about how important and awesome they are.

    • @castrovirgo3157
      @castrovirgo3157 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Just keep writing, the more material the better..im stuck in BALTIMORE...

    • @sicilyny5375
      @sicilyny5375 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm in NC..from NY originally and lived in LA n the Valley, Santa Barbara and the competition is insane. Everybody knows somebody even if they suck at writing.
      It's always WHO you know not how Great you write.

  • @GarysReview
    @GarysReview 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great upload. Great channel.

    • @alexispapageorgiou72
      @alexispapageorgiou72 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Amazing stuff and the sheer number of them ... Can't thank them enough

  • @artyfuffkin7805
    @artyfuffkin7805 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I know my true story - screenplay of encountering / attacked by a 60's American infamous unsolved serial killer crime docudrama, could be a huge TV series. Just querying got it looked at by 2 top Hollywood management Co, ZG & N Repub.
    A top director said it was interesting yrs ago . I'm far from LA. think it's worth moving there for months to try to get in ? This is / needs / warrants a big budget piece

    • @michaelsix9684
      @michaelsix9684 ปีที่แล้ว

      if you have a script ready, set up a meeting and go, just book a motel for a few days, or maybe they will take a Zoom meeting, move fast before they loose interest

    • @artyfuffkin7805
      @artyfuffkin7805 ปีที่แล้ว

      @michaelsix9684 you know the movie Dual , it's a bit like that all/ mostly action, minimal dialog .but mine has to be A TV series 60+ hours

  • @vincentpaterno5311
    @vincentpaterno5311 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Since I only write comedy features, Nicholl isn't right for me due to its notorious pro-drama bias, and I'm not sure how the other top-tier competitions stack up for those of us who write comedies.

  • @rashuneknight3939
    @rashuneknight3939 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Is entering contests a good idea

    • @camronchlarson3767
      @camronchlarson3767 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      From what I've heard and the interviews I've listen to from managers, only the good ones matter. They all say pretty much Austin film festival and the Nicholl are that they really care about.
      BUT they also said if you win a smaller contest you can definitely brag about it in a query letter.

  • @augustuscaeser10b78
    @augustuscaeser10b78 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    harsh but true

  • @C.Church
    @C.Church 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've been on the Blue Cat mailing list since 2004, but have read varying bad experiences about them from the reading quality to runners' bad behavior to readers and writers. Even the Nicholl has its complaints lodged against them, but this is the first in HUNDREDS of screenwriting videos and sites that I've heard BlueCat mentioned as a reliable competition.
    This comment shouldn't be taken as gospel, but a POV from long observation.

  • @tatapongkelly6244
    @tatapongkelly6244 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Am in Africa, can i get agent without i living in LA

    • @alleyesproductions
      @alleyesproductions 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Location is unfortunately a huge factor.I don't believe ir has to be LA but major cities in U.S. strengthen your chances.Id start off by making something with great quality and put it in african only film festivals

  • @ThisIsInfamousJBlack
    @ThisIsInfamousJBlack 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Would you suggest using Final Draft to write your screenplay? I can't afford it at this time but just curious to your opinion on it.

    • @janziemecki7298
      @janziemecki7298 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Makes it easy. There is a free program too. Mentioned in a TH-cam tutorial on formatting screen plays. Sorry don't remember the name.

    • @3v3ry1P1zDanc
      @3v3ry1P1zDanc 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I haven't regretted buying Final Draft, but if you can't afford it, other softwares work great.

    • @SkintSNIPER262
      @SkintSNIPER262 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Honestly, just use google docs, and get a screenwriting addon for it.

    • @calvinmusquez9162
      @calvinmusquez9162 6 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I used celtx for years. It's great for what it is and I never thought I'd feel the need to switch. But I had to use finaldraft for a screenwriting class and haven't looked back. If you can save up for it, it is amazing.

    • @ThisIsInfamousJBlack
      @ThisIsInfamousJBlack 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I appreciate all the replies to my question. I'll save up for Final Draft, it sounds like a great program to use. Thanks again everyone!

  • @VincentPaterno-hs2fv
    @VincentPaterno-hs2fv ปีที่แล้ว

    Competitions such as Nicholl tend to give short shrift to writers of comedy features.

  • @davidirizarry6216
    @davidirizarry6216 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Anyone wants to collaborate?
    I need experience&networking.

    • @biggreaze
      @biggreaze 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'd Lovee to Collab bro, where are you from? What's your name?

    • @davidirizarry6216
      @davidirizarry6216 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@biggreaze David over here now living in Pennsylvania..You?
      I write my own scripts too.

  • @g.g.rebimik8455
    @g.g.rebimik8455 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    some good advice here...

  • @Kendall42971
    @Kendall42971 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Nepotism is KEY in this business. Yes, talent is good, but if you don't KNOW anyone, then you're shit out of luck. #FACT

    • @filmcourage
      @filmcourage  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Nepotism can certainly help but by itself doesn't guarantee anything either. We've spoken to countless people who didn't have any connections when they started. Here are two examples - th-cam.com/video/_DZmwEcrOVY/w-d-xo.html and th-cam.com/video/BSONP4n3Yg4/w-d-xo.html

    • @sicilyny5375
      @sicilyny5375 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It does help to get your foot in the door if someone is in front holding open the door. I'm on the road to a few more publications..then an agent.

    • @Kendall42971
      @Kendall42971 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@sicilyny5375 Congrats!!! Keep us posted. 🤞🏽🥂

  • @brianmurphy7372
    @brianmurphy7372 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    FORGET IT!ITS A CLOSED SHOP! MAKE AN INDEPENDENT FILM AND GET IT ON ON SOCIAL MEDIA. THIS GUY IS JUST BABBLE.

  • @sabrinarentschler5336
    @sabrinarentschler5336 ปีที่แล้ว

    Little worried about him saying "this guy has talent". I've contemplated not revealing my gender when submitting because I know the world in general does not take female intellectuals seriously. I'm wondering if I will have a better chance if I don't reveal my gender or use my husband's name as a pseudonym.

  • @MrObelisk2290
    @MrObelisk2290 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    BREAKING NEWS: FIRE HOT, WATER WET

  • @AM-st5yd
    @AM-st5yd 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    This for film courage
    If I have a story for a netflix show then tell me how can I contact u because I don't have ur no. ,email ,or any things if u can then just reply

  • @angelbaby1811
    @angelbaby1811 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Getting a network when you don’t know anyone 😵‍💫

  • @hipdude5277
    @hipdude5277 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Am I JUST a crazy person?

  • @comfort_rain
    @comfort_rain 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    it's a shame how difficult it is to get in as a writer. your traditional way has been going on long enough. soon you all will not be needed and you'll be kissing the writers' asses. and no i'm not a writer

    • @comfort_rain
      @comfort_rain 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@fallingalice2601 stfu

    • @comfort_rain
      @comfort_rain 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@fallingalice2601 nah that's my I don't have the time to read your mess so I gave you a short

    • @comfort_rain
      @comfort_rain 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@fallingalice2601 in fact I didn't finish reading past whatsa' matter d its comma there lol that's facts

    • @comfort_rain
      @comfort_rain 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@fallingalice2601 although I am bound to a chair I do not feel bored enough to read your long notes. You have attacked me because of my opinion. My friggin opinion. My opinion. That I am entitled to. Youre nothing but a gross keyboard bully. I don't have time for you so I rather be short and say fuck off. That's what I did. That's all I care to give you. I don't care to read your long notes. Now please politely fuck off and leave me to my opinion. Thank you

    • @comfort_rain
      @comfort_rain 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@fallingalice2601 stfu

  • @scarlettink2009
    @scarlettink2009 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Use your own pool of resources! Who are my associates managed by!? ... This should be obvious, but its Not Lol! .. Now I'm going thru my friends list, thanks for the jewels ... #DopeChannel!

    • @jeffreyfortson8230
      @jeffreyfortson8230 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      This guy told me nothing I didn't already know and that wasn't extremely obvious.

  • @MrWha-ok4jb
    @MrWha-ok4jb 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUK! I'M SO TIRED OF WAITING FOR A BREAK! All these people do whatever they can to KEEP us writers out! So fuckin' tired of it!

  • @everafter2611
    @everafter2611 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I don't want a agent because I don't want them to make millions of of me... I can talk for myself.

  • @everafter2611
    @everafter2611 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Agents are evil