Even as you work on your screenplay, whether you are developing characters or crafting your query letter, you should stay on top of the industry. Read movie magazines, watch movies, read other screenplays and more to stay informed about industry trends and happenings.
Read about the latest script deals. This helps you track genre trends. If you are reading about the third “Harry Potter-like” script selling, chances are this trend has maxed out and you should put your screenplay about witches and wizards on the back burner. Seeing which studios or production companies bought what can help you keep track of which companies are best to focus on for your particular type of screenplay.
Read about other screenwriters. Find out what worked for them—what got them noticed? You might find a friend of a friend mentioned in an interview. You want to use every possible connection you can to get your screenplay in the right hands. Unfortunately, it pays to know someone, no matter how remote your connection. Other information in these articles could provide inspiration for your current project or spark a new idea.
Read about industry events. There’s another film festival happening somewhere in the world almost every week, it seems. Read about them. Most focus on low-budget, independent movies. Since this is the best place to get started, find out what got the best reactions. This could help you target the best agent or production company for your screenplay.
Read about screenwriting competitions. This also helps you stay on top of what kinds of stories are drawing attention. You might glean some good tips on how to improve your chances of success in the next competition you enter.
Read other screenplays and watch movies. Aspiring screenwriters can’t overstudy movies! Pay close attention to transitions and dialogue. What do you find compelling? What keeps you interested in the story and the characters? Identify the three acts. This exercise will help you with the structure of your own work.
Communicate with other aspiring screenwriters. There are many, many online message boards where you can post questions about your writing, competitions, movies, etc. You might get some valuable feedback from another poster. You might learn about a new contest that is ideal for your latest project. You might enjoy commiserating with other struggling screenwriters. You might find out that a competition you were considering if not worth your time and entry fee. You might get an idea for your character or plot. You might even be able to provide some valuable feedback or information to others.
Consider other jobs in the screenwriting field. There are so many aspiring screenwriters that anything you can do to get a foot in the door will only help your chances of success. One of the most direct routes to industry insider access is working as a writer’s assistant to an already established film or TV writer. An assistant gets to play a small part in the creative process while watching over a veteran writer’s shoulder. A writer’s assistant’s duties can range from interesting creative tasks and involvement to clerical tasks to personal business. Ideally, you would work on revisions and research. You might sit in on meetings to take notes from studio execs or transcribe tapes from such meetings. You’re certainly paying your dues. You need to put aside your ego and keep in mind that you’re getting valuable insight on the draft and revision process, the pitch routine, writing on assignment and the screenwriting marketplace.