Message Board

First of all, I'd like to thank all of you who continued to e-mail me these past several months even though I haven't been perusing this site--or any other sites for that matter. I've been extremely busy and found that once I'd go on to any Writers' sites, hours would pass. I had a LOT to get done and couldn't afford to stray.

I came back and perused this site last weekend (and then posted) after someone e-mailed me and insisted I check out some "hilarious" thread (no, I didn't post under that thread).

In the past, I got into the habit of posting SCRIPT SEARCHES under the Thread AGENT LOOKING FOR WRITERS (I think it was called). Since many Writers didn't peruse that particular Thread, I thought it would be best to post any SCRIPT SEARCHES that came our way--under its own Thread.

The past few weeks, unfortunately, have been VERY SLOW. When there has been something that's come my way, it's been in the HORROR genre. There are a couple SCRIPT SEARCHES that were recently e-mailed to me that I'd be more than happy to share. I'll show them in another post.

Again, thank you to all--AND GOOD LUCK!

1) Comedy script--$5 million budget.

2) Edgy Comedy script--need parts for three actresses, three actors, all in their late 20's. (I've been told this is for a Director's third feature.)

If you have a completed script that fits either of these two Requests, feel free to e-mail me for the info.

SUSPENSE/THRILLER

For international production and distribution. No set requirement for story and location--OPEN. Your Thriller can be about crime, espionage, politics, etc., etc., etc.--BUT NO HORROR OR SEXPLOITATION.

E-mail me for details!

DISASTER FILM

HUGE/BIG! BIG! BIG! BUDGET SCRIPT!!!!

TOP PRODUCER

Would be nice if it (script/story) was something that hasn't been done before but, unfortunately, that's almost impossible. But would like, at least, a unique take.

Need something as soon as possible!

If you have material that fits this description, e-mail me for details.

It amazes me how many people read this site--who have NEVER posted. We must be a scary bunch. LOL!

I've received 60 e-mails so far today asking for info re: the SCRIPT SEARCHES posted above--and I don't recognize a single one of them.

INTERESTING!

Terri,

I know you.. I'll e mail you tonight on the Disaster, and Romantic Comedy..

For all of you 60 new people. Terri, is the Burning Bush of this website, and also the most helpful to new writers.

Ron

1) At 4:00 p.m. PT yesterday, I received word that they are no longer accepting e-mail pitches re: the "Disaster" script. Apparently, they were overwhelmed with hundreds of e-mails and have to catch up. If I hear anything else, I'll let you know. (Keep your fingers crossed.)

2) Except for three people last night, all other e-mails received have been from those who have never posted on this site.

Let me explain. I am not producing anything. I have nothing to do with these Script Searches. They're e-mailed to me from various sources, i.e., Producers, Writers, etc. Many times, I receive e-mails from Entertainment entities and individuals whom I've never heard of.

When I receive a Script Search, I share it with my Writing Friends. THAT'S ALL!

3) There was an individual--someone I don't know--who didn't understand #2 and e-mailed me several times yestereday, the last one being a message with extremely foul language, etc.

PLEASE NOTE: I'm just the messenger. Most Writers I've dealt with have always displayed professional conduct. I don't think it's fair to them for me to share Script Search info with someone who obviously doesn't know what the word "professional" means. I'm sure if it were a "blue" word, they would.

Again, when I receive info on a SCRIPT SEARCH, I share it. That's all I do!

NEED SCREENPLAY ASAP

An EMMY-award-winning Director.

Especially looking for stories about boys and teens as the main characters, as they have access to several talented actors from age eight to 17-years-old.

If you have something and you're interested, e-mail me for details.

Here's something unusual that just came in. Sounds like it could be "fun."

"ELDERLY" ROMANTIC COMEDY

$5-$10 million budget.

If you have something, you know what to do.

Here's something SPECIFIC:

SCRIPT WITH A HEAVY-SET MALE LEAD

Not a comedy.

Prefer a Thriller where, hopefully, the "heavy-set male lead" is the romantic interest.

Make sense?

E-mail me for details.

FYI--

"40" is NOT "elderly."

Elderly Comedy- hell I hope someone doesn't think 40 is elderly. Damn I am past that a few years.

I read just recently that the Baby Boomer market is going to be the next big target for Movies and TV. I know that they are looking at the new Golden Girls- sort of Six feet Under meets a Seniors Home.

Start thinking of ideas for the 45-65 year old crowd- it could pay off.

Steve

' Revenge of the Nursing Home Nerds '

' Viagra Boys '

' Altimers Come Home '

' Frankie Avalon '

' Spin and Marty 2005 '

' 60 '

I'm not here to make fun of anybody--HONEST! But something CUTE did give me a slight chuckle--when someone asked if "elderly" was 40 or 39. "Elderly" is more like 65-85. (And, by today's standards, 65 doesn't even look "elderly." Have you seen how young MANSON and BLAKE look in their 70's? H'mm . . . I had a funny comment to make, but I don't wanna get sued!)

If anyone has tried e-mailing me in the last 90 minutes and, as of yet, you've gotten no response, I apologize. For some strange reason, I haven't been able to pull up my e-mail list. Maybe too many e-mails are coming in. I have no idea what the problem is. SORRY!

Please keep in mind that I can't post everything I receive. I'd like to, but I can't.

1) If they don't look "worth it," I'm not posting them.

2) Sometimes I'm asked NOT TO. Like today, got a fantastic one for a TOP DIRECTOR/PRODUCER. But, unfortunately, it also stated that I wasn't to post it anywhere. SORRY!

I find it hard to believe that I'm the only person on this site who hears of SCRIPT SEARCHES. There has to be OTHER WRITERS here who get some inside info about certain companies looking for certain product. Maybe it's just slow!

I know David Lucas had a good one a year ago. Unfortunately, when I talked to the company, only an Agent could submit the query.

I did get a few SCRIPT SEARCHES this morning. Unfortunately, there's only one I'm allowed to post. Here it is:

OSCAR-nominated Producer Now Accepting Pilot Sitcom Scripts!

Besides the Pilot Script, you have to have, at least, six episodes written.

E-mail me for details!

A company is looking for a sitcom pilot script with a Casino setting.

If you have something and you're interested, e-mail me for details.

Nope. Nothing new has come in yet. But it's Friday--and it's still early here on the West Coast. Think it . . . and they will come. LOL!

I did want to take this opportunity to thank all of you who e-mailed me this week, telling me how the BB hasn't been the same without me and how much you missed me. I know you're lying, but it's nice to read anyway. LMAO!

Now, I say we lift our "spiked" juice glasses for a toast and say/sing, "We will, we will rock you!" If we say it loud enough, maybe those hearing-impaired Producers out there will hear us and GIVE US A CHANCE!

HAPPY FRIDAY, EVERYONE!

No... Thank you. And please keep the info line coming.

AND HAPPY FRIDAY!

If anyone's in the University of Southern California area... please feel free to stop on by Olin Hall 100 off of McClintock Avenue. My co-worker baked a large batch of brownies. We're under the USC Distance Education Network banner.

For those of you who keep e-mailing me, asking for SCRIPT SEARCHES--I'll post them here.

Of course, I don't mind MB BB members e-mailing me in regards to posts I've made--but it gets tedious answering posts from people I don't know who are just asking me to send them whatever I've got. Again, if I'm allowed to share a SCRIPT SEARCH, this is where it'll be posted.

If you don't already, you might want to subscribe to InkTip.com's Preferred Newsletter (no, NOTHING I post here comes from InkTip.com)--or sign up for their free Flash Notice. There might be other services out there as well, I'm not sure. (There's Moviebytes' Writers Wanted section, of course! And Hollywoodlitsales.com! If anyone knows of other sites that offer SCRIPT SEARCHES--PLEASE LET US KNOW!!!!)

I know. It's been slow. VERY SLOW! And it gets very . . . boring sitting around waiting to hear about who's looking for what. Even though we're writing, it can get boring when you're thinking there's no one out there looking for what you've got.

Just keep the faith! We're all in this together!!!!

It was a slow weekend, people. SORRY! I only received about four SCRIPT SEARCHES from various sources but each stated that they weren't to be posted anywhere else. They were all for independent features and one was for an award-winning Director/Producer. Which doesn't mean anything. The person could've won SPECIAL MENTION for a student film.

PLEASE--if any of you Writers out there get a scoop on a prodco looking for something, let us know!

One person who wrote me a while back, assumed I only posted SCRIPT SEARCHES that I didn't personally respond to. That's not true. ANYTHING that I receive that I'm allowed to share, I SHARE! Whether I have something for that company or not. It's not like a swim race where the best time wins. Every Writer has a different story, different style, different approach. And it's not like acting where all the same "types" go to the same auditions.

I still believe (at least I HOPE) that if one shares, they will, eventually, receive much more in return.

Writers I know are unselfish. In my opinion (yes, I've said it and I'll say it again), we're the Write Breed.

Company looking for:

Thriller to be shot in OMAHA! Yeah, you read that right. So I guess if you've got a story where someone's murdered at the Old Market, you've got a winner! LOL!

If you've actually got something, e-mail me for details.

Yes, I did just receive four Script Searches within a few minutes. All for Horror and all with WGA pay. Unfortunately, each has requested that I not post their SEARCHES. I have no idea why since I would think they'd want to find the best script out there to fulfill what they need.

For all you HORROR Writers, keep checking this BB--because I'm going to try and talk them into letting me share their info!

Later. . . .

Okay, some of you out there who don't post here but just cruise the BB are scaring me.

Don't e-mail me and NOT tell me HOW you know me, NOT tell me WHO you are and ask me to help you sell your script.

When I receive a Script Search that I'm allowed to post here, I will. Other than that, I can't help you re: what you're asking. I'm in the same boat as everyone else on the BB.

Damn - have a sitcom written, but not the subsequent 6 shows (ideas though). I was all excited when I saw that and then got bummed. Oh well.

Thanks for the posts Terri!

Yeah, I know. BUMMER!

Hasn't been any really good SCRIPT SEARCHES for several weeks.

Makes me wonder how the "reality show world" and BARELY ANY sitcoms on the idiot box this fall is/are going to affect feature Writers. Probably make the competition even worse, I'm sure!

It's really sad, ya know. Remember COSBY and SEINFELD and all the other great comedies? What's the world coming to!

READ MY WORDS (LOL)!

If there is a SCRIPT SEARCH worth posting, I will post it. If something is posted that fits what you have--THEN E-MAIL ME, of course.

Also remember--this is a Holiday Weekend. It's doubtful there would be any! According to the news, three million people left Los Angeles for the weekend.

You can tag me as one of those three million who left town. I went to visit the parents. Now I'm back... a bit refreshed and ready to exercise those typing fingers.

I hope everyone had a relaxing weekend. Now it's time to get back to work. Writing fingers... ready? Begin.

Wes, you are TOO funny! Glad you got to spend some time away.

I APOLOGIZE!

I did get something e-mailed to me like last Saturday. I printed it out but didn't pay any attention to it. Probably because I don't think it's right for me. But, I have to remember, someone else COULD BE INTERESTED!

There is a Prodco looking to hire Writers on a specific project they currently have--and on future projects.

I could be wrong, but from what I gather, I think the current project is a HEIST/THRILLER.

Again, I apologize and, if you're interested, e-mail me.

(Please forgive me? LOL!)

RE: The last SCRIPT SEARCH I posted--

You just have to look at the e-mail yourself and decide whether or not it's right for you and whether or not you want to pursue it.

There's NO REASON for any of you to give me your synopses for ANY of these SCRIPT SEARCHES and have ME decide whether or not they would want to look at your material. As I've stated before, I HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THESE! They're e-mailed to me from various sources.

19th-CENTURY GHOST STORY

If you have something, e-mail me for details.

I'M SORRY! THERE ISN'T ANYTHING!

I've been online since 5:30 this morning answering e-mails from those of you who never post but insist on e-mailing me, asking for the lastest SCRIPT SEARCHES I receive.

I've stated MANY times that if I receive a SCRIPT SEARCH I can share--and is WORTH SHARING--I'll post it here.

If you see a SCRIPT SEARCH posted on this Thread for something you have, then e-mail me for the info. Also, if you wait 3-4 weeks or more, it's going to be difficult for me to find it.

A few of you have asked WHERE I GET THESE SCRIPT SEARCHES.

As previously stated, they're e-mailed to me.

1) I belong to several Screenwritng organizations (some whose members are also Directors and Producers).

2) The Academys.

3) Entertainment Industry INFO Lists.

4) Film Schools

5) Film School Alumns

6) Industry Contacts (wish I had the right ones--LOL!)

7) Other Screenwriters.

8) People I've worked with at the Studios.

Here's something that MIGHT pique someone's interest. Usually, I don't bother with Script Searches for Screenplay Shorts, but this one might be worth it.

Whenever I see the ones that don't offer ANYTHING or only $15-$50, I say to myself . . . forget it, I'd better not say what I usually say. LOL!

Here's the particulars which might be of interest:

1) Producer who has produced feature films.

2) For Film Festivals and Distributors.

3) $500 plus deferred pay.

As always, e-mail me for further info!

Okay, let me make myself clear re: the last posted SCRIPT SEARCH!

YOU DO NOT have to be a Producer who has produced films. The person who will be doing the Short Film is a Producer with features under their belt.

Sorry Terri but I'm laughing at your responses to what some of the people are doing to you with the requests.

It looks like some of us took a SPECIAL BUSES to school and don't pay attention to what we're told.

IF TERRI HAS A REQUEST SHE WILL POST IT.

ONLY CONTACT HER FOR THE INFORMATION ON THE PRODUCTION COMPANY.

TERRI DOESN'T WANT TO READ YOUR LAME LOGLINES. LET THE PRODUCTION COMPANY LAUGH AT YOU FOR THAT!!!!!

Hey Terri- you got any requests for DUMB AND DUMBERERER 3- LOOKS LIKE WE HAVE SOME REAL LIFE STORIES OUT THERE!!!

Steve

Steve--

You will NEVER know how much I really needed to laugh! I'm not about to bring everyone down by telling them my current sob story. So I just wanted to say, THANK YOU FOR GIVING ME WHAT I REALLY NEEDED THIS WEEKEND (no, for the Dumb, Dumber and Dumbest--we did not have sex, READ THE PREVIOUS POST!)!

Hi, Terri Dickey: My win ticket on Smarty Jones is worthless since Birdstone (what a name) won and paid $74 for a two buck ticket. No fortune for me in that venue. What about this thriller I'm marketing? It takes place in the Nevada desert. Can you suggest something?

Cordially, Grover

SMARTY JONES lost and PRESIDENT RONNIE died. And I didn't win the California SUPER LOTTO PLUS lottery game tonight, either. What a HORRIBLE DAY!

Grover, have you tried e-mail pitching to those companies looking to ONLY shoot a film (Thrillers, I think) in/around Las Vegas? And what about those companies last year looking to shoot a "desert" Thriller? Have you been sleeping? Or did you already try?

This thread gave me a good laugh. Terri, you must be a very good person to keep sharing your info given the grief you are going through via the insane e-mails and such. Ugh. You must be building up lots of good karma.

Billie

"This thread gave me a good laugh. Terri, you must be a very good person to keep sharing your info given the grief you are going through via the insane e-mails and such. Ugh. You must be building up lots of good karma."

Billie--I have to tell ya. For years I've wondered WHEN IS IT GONNA BE MY TURN? You wouldn't believe the talent I pulled off the street when I was in Casting--and they became rich and famous. But, like I said, Writers are a different BREED. They're always there helping you out WHEN you need it and WHEN you don't. But I'm still waiting to find out WHEN IT'S GONNA BE MY TURN! LOL!

Don't let OSCAR intimidate you!

A couple weeks ago, I had posted a very specific SCRIPT SEARCH REQUEST.

I got a few e-mails. But, it seems, I made the mistake of telling those people who contacted me--that it was a request from an OSCAR-nominated Director. I later found out that non of you sent your e-mail pitches to this guy.

WHAT'S UP WITH THAT?!

FYI--There hasn't been ANYTHING. Unfortunately, it's been SLOWWWWWWWWW!!!!

There have been 2-3 SCRIPT SEARCHES that have come in, but only from Independents and they asked that the Request(s) not be passed on. Don't know why!

Independents have great intentions and, in most cases, big hearts--but rarely any money. And when they do get it, they usually lose the funding just as fast. Sad, but true!

Keep your fingers crossed that some really good ones come in the next few days. I'm so tired of checking my e-mails and NOT FINDING ANY!

Well, I cannot say there are "none" at this time.

COMEDY FEATURE FILM SCREENPLAYS

Budget: $1.5 million to $10 million

Pay: How much depends on project and budget. If $1.5 million, then the WGA minimum.

On this LAST COMEDY SCRIPT SEARCH I posted, I didn't think I had to put "e-mail me for info," etc. any longer because I assumed--with all the posts I've made--that everyone would know that by now. (Apparently I was wrong as proven by one or two e-mails I received.)

(FYI--I got a lot of e-mail requests from MB Members on this one--so don't wait, people, to pitch it!!!!)

When e-mailing me, just ask me for the specific SCRIPT SEARCH you want info on. Again, please do it in a timely fashion. As previously stated, if you wait weeks, it might be difficult to find or no longer available. SO HOP ON IT, PEOPLE! LOL!

Hey, I'm PROUD of you people! All day today, e-mails re: the Comedy Script Search!

Now--let's keep our fingers crossed and hope that ONE OF YOU SELLS A SCRIPT TO THIS COMPANY!

This Thread seems VERY LONELY! I cannot believe that I'm THE ONLY WRITER WHO GETS ANY INSIDE SCOOPS RE: CERTAIN PRODCOS LOOKING FOR CERTAIN PROJECTS!

Come on, PEOPLE! Haven't you heard of the "boomerang effect"? Good things will come to you IF YOU SHARE! But if you're "selfish," lightning may strike you! You wouldn't want THAT to happen, now would you? LOL!

(If you're worried about competition, which you shouldn't be if you have FAITH IN YOUR PROJECT AND YOUR WRITING ABILITIES, then submit your work, wait a few days--THEN TELL US ABOUT THE SCRIPT SEARCH!)

FYI--This Thread's getting rather long. I think that when July arrives, I'll start doing one for each month, i.e., JULY 2004 SCRIPT SEARCH REQUESTS. How does that sound?

"Remember, today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday."

- Dale Carnegie

Terri,

There is a string on DONE DEAL, that says Keven Cosner (TIG) is looking for Baseball and Western scripts. Don't laugh. He actually is looking.

A friend of mine is sending his Western script that had been in development for a few years. Of course, his WGA agent will be submitting.

I know you like Westerns..

Good luck..

Ron

Kevin...

Geezzz..

Got a question.. If you can't get through to a prodco with an e mail pitch, is snail mail more acceptable(and successful) than faxing..

Ron

Ron--

Here's my experience with Costner. His company won't look at ANYTHING unless it comes through an Agent or Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah! (But thanks for the tip. SOMEONE MIGHT FIGURE A WAY AROUND IT!)

And as far as "correspondence pitching," i.e., e-mail, faxing, snail mail--when there's a Script Search and all they give is an e-mail address or specify to e-mail them, then that's what you've got to do. And it's great because you don't have to spend money on paper and postage. And it's less formal.

Faxing can be a bitch--unless they're expecting it. When you work at a Prodco, too many faxes come in and you can't keep up and they get lost, etc.

When I've gone to pitch marts and then took the list and "snail mailed" pitch packets--I couldn't keep up with the phone calls. I remember mailing pitch packets on a Friday and getting 60 phone calls on a Monday.

But you've got to know how to write a good business letter. AND NEVER LIE! When I had 20 companies requesting the same script and stated a couple in my letter "i.e., Phoenix Pictures, Imagine Entertainment," everybody called. BUT I DIDN'T LIE! DON'T EVER LIE! (Not only is it wrong--it'll come back to BITE YOU IN THE ASS!)

If, so far, you're just starting out and so, of course, you don't have anyone asking for product because you haven't told anyone yet--find another gimmick. Maybe one time Ron Howard called to tell you that yours was the best writing he'd ever come across. If this is true, use it. BUT DON'T LIE!

If you're just starting at this, then you're best bet is to just have the best and most professional business letter you can write. TRUST ME! THEY'LL CALL!

"If you're just starting at this, then you're best bet is to just have the best and most professional business letter you can write."

FUNNY! I'm talking about "professional business letter(s)" and I don't even take the time to PROOF my post? IRONIC! YOUR, not YOU'RE! All I can say is--I DIDN'T SLEEP LAST NIGHT! LOL!

TIP: If you have to, proof your letter a hundred times before sending in your pitch packets!!!!

terri, just started here. can you tell us a little about yourself?

--gary

"Many things should be done in silence and talkin' about them is a mistake."

Terri,

Sounds like the old fashion way (snail mail) works best - if the letter/pitch, is professionally tight as a drum.

Appreciated - as always..

Best,

Ron

You have to make your letter special and interesting. You have to make them WANT what you've got. But make the letter your own.

I remember I had just sent out some "successful" pitch packets and I had this "Sci-Fi" Writing Partner who wanted to pitch HER product to the same companies but she wasn't good at letters, etc. So I showed her one of my letters--as an EXAMPLE, a guide for her to follow to help her come up with her own "unique" letter. HA! LOL! She sent out the exact same letter, but with HER name on it. I later saw her Product List she sent with it and, unfortunately, though she's a talented Writer, she can't write synopses. Not even short ones. Needless to say, NO ONE CALLED HER.

So then she resorted to calling. I told her, "Do NOT call Development people. Listen to me. I worked in Development. They are the busiest people in the Industry. DON'T DO IT!" Did she listen? NO! Did she get any bites? NO! (Well, she did, but NOT the good kind!)

A Writer is creative and talented and able to come up with their own style. If you don't, people who read your work are going to know it's not your own.

Example. There was this Writer who had good ideas but never executed them well. In fact, whatever he pitched--never ended up in his scripts.

I was talking to him on the phone one time. I was telling him my idea for a script--I told him the entire story! A month later, he showed up at our Screenwriters' meeting with this new script. Everyone read it and said, "There's no way you wrote this script. This isn't how you write." I also recognized the story. IT WAS MINE! Later, I read the "very well-written" script (someone else's) he had taken and typed up but with my story. (The script that wasn't his was an entry in the contest this guy was in charge of!) All other scripts he's written have been back to his ol' style. Not even in the same ball park!

Years ago, there was a script I had to read. I have NEVER read a script so badly written and awful in my life. If the title hadn't already been taken, I would've called it "The Village of the Damned." Later, I saw the Writer's name and Title as the winner in a contest headed by someone I knew. I told her I had no respect for her contest any longer. We were talking on the phone and I was discussing the characters, etc. and she said, "Terri, those characters aren't even in the script. That's not even what the story's about." It was then discovered that the guy had taken a script he had copyrighted and put the title of that one on someone else's script and entered it in the contest.

Remember what happened at MAD TV back in the late 90's? A guy had gotten a job as a Writer on MAD TV by taking a script written by two of his friends and submitting it for work on the show--but with HIS NAME as the Writer. Well, he did get the job but the friends found out what he'd done to get it!

Moral of the story? WRITE YOUR OWN DAMN SHIT!

Hope I didn't offend anyone who has stolen someone else's script. No, wait . . . it's Monday morning. I DO!

This quote is MY theory on writing your own original screenplays:

"We have a choice: to plow new ground or let the weeds grow."

- Jonathan Westover

SCREENPLAY WANTED

1) Any genre, any subject.

2) Budget--under $5 million.

3) Must be partially or completely set in Asia or the Pacific Ocean (i.e., Hawaii).

More details!! E-mail me if interested!

Terri,

I think the " Asia " lead, was on Inktip a few months ago.

Ron

Nope, 'fraid not, Ron. NOT the same one AT ALL! Anyone looking at the "details" I have in the e-mail--will see that! (This company has never put a Script Search on InkTip.com.)

From what I've been told, this is brand new and hasn't been sent out to anyone until one or two days ago. I just checked another S/N I use for "industry business" and found the e-mail.

NOTE: As previously stated, I NEVER have and NEVER will post anything here from InkTip.com!

Terri,

I stand corrected..

Best,

Ron

Ron--

You're forgiven!

LOL!

"Integrity is not a 90 percent thing, not a 95 percent thing; either you have it or you don't."

- Peter Scotese

Okay, people, LISTEN UP!

That "Asia" Script Search I posted yesterday . . . well, I checked my other S/N's this morning and, as of last night, it's appeared on some other Industry Info Lists which means it's going out to hundreds, maybe thousands of people.

If you've got something, act fast and e-mail me ASAP for info!!!!! DON'T WAIT!

SCREENPLAY WANTED

1) Sci-Fi Love Story . . .

2) Simple.

3) Present day.

4) In the vein of John Carpenter's 1984 STARMAN or like the beginning (the birth) of the TV series ROSWELL. Or even K-PAX (although THAT wasn't a love story).

5) Budget--Below $15 million.

6) WGA pay. Non-union Writers are welcome to submit.

Hi Terri!

First of all I want to thank you for posting all of these SCRIPT SEARCHES. I know you're feeling bummed because you spend your days do do doing for others and not getting much respect in return.

I have a suggestion for you. I know you're bedeviled by the number of requests you get from lurkers on this board. Why not refuse to give information to anyone who doesn't post on moviebytes? I know it sounds harsh but it's the only logical solution.

If someone's such a pusssy that they can't even work up the courage to post then how do you know they're actually literate? All you know about these people is that they can put two sentences together in an email! Hell they could get their grandma to write that note! LOL!!!

Posting is NOT SO SCARY, PEOPLE! If I can do it you can do it. Here I am writing my first moviebytes post! Look ma no hands! Wait. I guess now you're wondering what I'm typing with! LOL!!

But let me ask you all something. If you're too afraid to say anything on a bulletin board then how are you going to ever have a career that depends on pitching your creative ideas to Hollywood?

Practice talking about your ideas here first and see if you have the cajones for this kind of work.

Anyways thanks again Terri. I'm waiting patiently for you to announce the SCRIPT SEARCH of my dreams. My latest and best so far script is an epic period comedy about a very unique Middle Eastern cult. That's all I'm going to divulge at this time.

Keep up the good work. Even if you never sell a script I for one will be happy that you have given your life to promoting others more than yourself. You are to be commended for your work.

Have you ever thought about becoming an agent? Somewhere I read that you think we can all make it as screenwriters. NO WRITER LEFT BEHIND! That's a controversial stand to take and I wonder how that is even possible unless of course we have somebody like you in our corner??

Peace,

Alicia

Oops.

"Pussy."

LOL!! Sorrry. I mean "sorry" it's been a LONG DAY, folks.

Alicia--

Your posts were not only WONDERFUL--but FUNNY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And since you're typing "with no hands" (no, I'm not asking--LOL!), I'm surprised you didn't have typos everywhere. ROFLMAO!!!!

No, I don't want to be an agent. I'm too old to "start over." I don't live at home with Mom and Dad so I can't start as a Junior Agent and make NO MONEY! Rent's not cheap in L.A. Casting years ago--that was joyful enough.

I WANT TO WRITE. Now, if only I could make MONEY AT IT!

WELCOME TO THE BOARD!

No need to correct yourself there, Alicia. I think most of us figured you knew how to spell it.

Terri--

I've been honing my craft for a long time now. Many days, I consider giving up but then I go to see a movie at the theater and it'll be so bad that I think if that crap got made maybe the crap I write can too.

ROFLMAO!!!!

But seriously I've been writing screenplays for over a year now and I haven't sold anything. That's not entirely accurate because I have sold quite a bit of credit card insurance this year. But I have yet to sell a script.

1) How long have you been writing screenplays may I ask??

2) What keeps you going month after month??

3) Would you be interested in buying some credit card insurance??

Thank you for answering any and all of these questions.

Peace,

Alicia

1) How long have you been writing screenplays may I ask??

4-EVER

2) What keeps you going month after month??

My ESP!

Credit Card Insurance? In order to keep myself OUT OF DEBT, I no longer own any CREDIT CARDS--just the ATM/CREDIT CARD from the bank. Since I no longer carry 20 credit cards, my purse if REALLY light. (Wish it were heavy with MONEY! LOL!)

Okay maybe this is rude to do on Terri's thread but can I open the topic up for others to respond to or is there some kind of rule about that?

HERE IS MY QUESTION--How long should I keep trying--it's been a long year and I haven't had any success selling a script.

I spent probably a good three months just reading up on how to write and sell a script. Then you add on another six months writing almost non-stop--an hour or more EVERY DAY seven days a week. Since then calling people in between times at work--asking them if they're interested in buying my scripts.

In all that time I haven't even got one person to agree to READ any of my scripts. Most of them hang up on me before I've even had a chance to explain what the story is about.

IT'S VERY DISCOURAGING!!!!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Especially from you Terrri--but if you are too busy then whoever else is available.

Peace,

Alicia

Okay maybe this is rude to do on Terri's thread but can I open the topic up for others to respond to or is there some kind of rule about that?

HERE IS MY QUESTION--How long should I keep trying--it's been a long year and I haven't had any success selling a script.

I spent probably a good three months just reading up on how to write and sell a script. Then you add on another six months writing almost non-stop--an hour or more EVERY DAY seven days a week. Since then calling people in between times at work--asking them if they're interested in buying my scripts.

In all that time I haven't even got one person to agree to READ any of my scripts. Most of them hang up on me before I've even had a chance to explain what the story is about.

IT'S VERY DISCOURAGING!!!!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Especially from you Terrri--but if you are too busy then whoever else is available.

Peace,

Alicia

Okay maybe this is rude to do on Terri's thread but can I open the topic up for others to respond to or is there some kind of rule about that?

HERE IS MY QUESTION--How long should I keep trying--it's been a long year and I haven't had any success selling a script.

I spent probably a good three months just reading up on how to write and sell a script. Then you add on another six months writing almost non-stop--an hour or more EVERY DAY seven days a week. Since then calling people in between times at work--asking them if they're interested in buying my scripts.

In all that time I haven't even got one person to agree to READ any of my scripts. Most of them hang up on me before I've even had a chance to explain what the story is about.

IT'S VERY DISCOURAGING!!!!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Especially from you Terrri--but if you are too busy then whoever else is available.

Peace,

Alicia

Alicia--

I hate to tell you this, but "a year" is NOT "a long time." You're a babe in the woods!

I've read a LOT of books on this subject. It's not an uncommon thing for a Writer to seriously write and not make a living at it for 20 years. If you're young and, obviously, you've only been doing this for a year--you're not going to like what else I've read. The average age for a Writer to FINALLY sell a book or screenplay is . . . 44.

If you can't wait, then maybe it's not really your dream. Don't mean to be harsh, just being realistic.

I've had some "ups" in this Biz--but I've probably had 50 "downs" for every "up." I learned a long time ago NOT to get excited when someone expresses interest in buying product. Most often than not--it falls through!

There's only one thing you can count on in this Biz if you're a Writer--your FRIENDS! Writer Friends are the best in the World! TRUST ME! Unlike any other profession in the Biz. I've worked at the Studios, I've worked as an Actor, I've worked in Development, I've worked in Production, I've worked in Distribution and, believe me, WRITING is the one profession where you can count on your friends. They're there when you need them. They're there when you don't. THEY WON'T LEAVE!

They're people--real people--I will NEVER forget!

Alicia,

I graduated from NYU Film School in 77. Sold my first script in 2002 for $75,000. All I've been paid so far on that is the $1,000.00 advance. I've made a little option $$$ on other scripts. Grand total: $3,500.00

I'm one of the lucky ones on this board..

They say you start getting the hang of it after you completed five polished screenplays. Do the math.. It takes many years of committment..

My attorney once told me, the only people who succeed in this business are those who are driven. Oh.. You also have to be talented, lucky, and relentlessly selling...

Best of luck..

Ron

I better start crackin' at those screenwriting books now. I've only been writing for about a year myself. So far only six screenplays to show for it. As far as them being any good... that's for someone to decide. And hopefully that someone likes it.

Let me see 1977 to 2002. That's 25 years. If I do the math correctly, I'm looking at 50 before I make my first sale.

Maybe if I work extra hard, day and night... I could cut that time in half.

If I don't sleep, maybe much less.

The moral of the story... If love your work. Never stop learning. Never stop writing. Improve your craft. If it was meant to be... it will happen. And I have faith it will happen, for each and everyone of you.

"If love your work."

Yeah... that's the "If I don't sleep" talking. =D

"If you love your work." But I think you get the picture. =)

Westley,

So by the time you're ready to " break in " you'll be in your 50s pitching to 22 year old execs. It's interesting how most execs require hardly any experience at all, and writers are forever " no ready. "

Ron

Wes--

Go to bed. Dream about that TOP COMPANY who asked to see TWO (2) of your scripts. Then, set your alarm for two months from now and, maybe, when you wake up, there'll be a message that they WANT TO BUY!

Wes, maybe that's why your Sci-Fi ideas seem so fresh. Because "you're fresh." Your creative mind is still able to run "free." Free of the clutter we put in our brains. The ten, 15, 20 years of seminars, classes, books, etc. that have clouded our minds with soooooooooooo much info.

Your ideas are so . . . I can't even describe them. I wanted to say "unique," but it's almost impossible to come up with something unique.

I know I've been at this for many years. And even though I've just found out that you've only been doing it for a year, well, that doesn't stop me from wanting you to succeed--and succeed soon!

GOOD LUCK!

Ron--

I know how you really like Shane Black. And most people know he was REALLY HOT back in the late 80's, early 90s. Did you read the interview where he talked about not doing anything, no writing, etc. for eight years?

He finally wrote again (even directed this past year). A Junior Executive read a script of his and called him, telling him he had some "promise" (something like that) and that they should meet, etc. Shane was humbled by the fact that this Junior Executive had never heard of him and had no idea who he was.

Yes, it's "humbling," but it also infuriates me that someone who's in this Business has no idea "about the Business."

It really . . . pisses me off (?) when people who pursue a specific career in this Biz, know nothing about it. YOU NEED TO DO YOUR HOMEWORK!

I've told people, "You need to know this." Then they say, "Why? I can just call you up and ask." EXCUSE ME? I'm not going to be there with you at a meeting with an Executive. I'm not going to be there, holding your hand at some Hollywood cocktail party when you meet Steven Spielberg.

KNOW YOUR STUFF! MAKE A POINT TO KNOW WHO AND WHAT EVERYTHING IS. PAY ATTENTION. KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST! It's important to avoid making yourself look like a stupid ass!

I used to be the Moderator of a Screenwriting Group in Burbank. One night, before we critiqued someone's script, I handed out some scenes "someone" wrote. There was this new member who always infuritated everyone by his stupid comments. He tried to make everyone believe he was an expert and was the best at everything he did. Needless to say, no one cared for him.

He looked at the scenes and said, "This is shit! Who's William Goldman?" We were all stunned. I turned to him and said, "What the f*&#^ are you doing here?"

A few years ago, I had a two-hour meeting with an Agent. He looked at the list of companies, etc. who had requested scripts from me. He didn't know who anyone was--literally! He asked me, "What's Phoenix Pictures?" I was shocked. I said, "That's Mike Medavoy's company." "Who's Mike Medavoy?" he asked. I was stunned. He wanted to sign me right there on the spot. NO WAY JOSE!

Here's the funny thing. That very evening, the Industry had a big Hollywood party for Mike Medavoy--to help celebrate his B-Day.

Here's another example: I worked with a couple of women a few years ago re: ideas for projects, etc. One of them said to us, "How about a TV show for Christina Applegate?" Our mouths fell open. "Uh, she currently has her own TV show on the air right now." "Oh, she does?"

HELLO!

Hi Alicia,

I only post here from time to time though I do lurk around a bit. I've been writing since the second grade and six months ago on my birthday I was given the dubious honor to mark the "other box" on applications, the "40 - 50 yrs" box - Terri, I guess I only have around 3 1/2 years to go before my first big sale - can't wait : )~

My point is (and I do have one somewhere if I can find it), it takes the first half of your life to find your voice - IMO. I knew at age 8 that I wanted to be a writer. I wrote school plays for my grammer school classes until 6th grade, then got more into the screewriting avenue in Jr High. My Mom bought me my first set of Syd Field books when I was in my teens. At 25 I felt that something was lacking - grit, life experience, etc (even though my 4th grade teacher strongly suggested to my Mom that I go to counceling because a play I wrote was to "controversial") So I tossed my typewriter into the garage, promising never to look back.

A decade later the voices were still haunting me so I picked up the pen again, registered at UCLA Extension and haven't put it down since. I may never make a living at it but then again, I cannot live without it.

Through all of my ramblings, I hope that those of you that have only been at this for a short time can appreciate the time and diligence that it will take to both hone your craft as well as know yourself and not ignore those voices, if you have the passion then you're well on your way.

Terri, you mentioned above, as well as in previous posts that you have had writing groups in Burbank. I live in Burbank/No Ho. I meet with a small group over the hill but am always looking for someone with a fresh voice and take on writing. Do you still belong to a group? If not, would you be interested in a one-on-one sometime? Just a thought or maybe a few people from these boards that live in L.A. would be interested?

Jeeze, I sure did get windy here huh?

Peace!

Doreen

Terri,

When I talked with Shane in Austin last October, he seemed more interested in getting down to the Driskol Bar, than talking about directorial debut with Joel Silver. That last time I saw him, two years prior, he told me he wanted to direct something small at about 7 mil budget. I usually break his balls, and asked Shane how Joel fit in with his little personal film. He gave me that " Shane look, " shrugged his shoulders, and said, " are we going to the bar or what.. " All of his genre creating $$$ success aside, Shane is a very smart, talented guy, who's writing is usually superior to the films that get made from his material. He loves movies, detests the movie ignorance of the " suits " and is no afraid to let people breaking in know that you should not let the " suites " define your talent. Frankly, I place Shane very high on the list with the greats in the industry, and although I know him personally, it gives me chills when we hang together. Although I'd never let him know that. Incidently.. I've gotten to know Shane - not because so much because if who I am, but because Shane has for years been very attracted to a close friend of mine, who he thought was " hooked up with. " Anyway, Shane just turned 40, is very sensitive about it, and has absolutely no patience for the new dues unpaid " young turks " that lurk everywhere, yet do not have a clue or a care about the history of this business that he really does love. As for him not writing for eight years.. That's just Shane pulling your strings.. and making a valid comment about what he believes is the mind set of execs who gate keep good material. He's an artist.. He loves to write. And will continue to write. I believe he's also the William Goldman for a new generation of screenwriters. A very well paid voice crying in the Hollywood wilderness.

Shane Black, is one of the good guys..

Ron

True. True. True.

I began writing in 1995 as a personal exercise, and about four years ago, I thought that I had had enough and would not write again. Then, someone, a more seasoned writer, offered me some unsolicited, but now appreciated, advise. "Write and the rest will come at the right time." He was right and now, I have a few screenplays in various stages of production.

As a writer, you have to make your own way and decide what type of writer you want to be. The rest comes in its own time. Read, learn, talk, scream... whatever you need to do to get through the frustration. However, don't stop writing.

Keep the faith.

"I may never make a living at it but then again, I cannot live without it."

That's a WONDERFUL line!

Ron--

I think your math is a little off. WAKE UP! Shane is no longer 40, but 42.

Somewhere in the bowels of my supply closet, I still have the PEOPLE magazine that has a picture of Shane and an article about him and his LETHAL WEAPON sale. (That REALLY ages me, doesn't it? LOL!)

Terri,

Believe me, Shane just turned forty. He made a note of telling me a number of times.. I'm older than Shane, and I told him that I didn't want to hear about it.

Ron

IMDB has his birthday as Dec 16 1961.

Maybe it's taking him a few years to adjust.

Ron--

Shane either had too much to drink, was pulling your leg or went "back in time" in his depressed state. I distinctly remember how old Shane was when he sold LETHAL WEAPON.

He was born in '61 and turned 42 last December 16th.

I remember, back in the 90s, going to the most AWESOME Halloween party I'd ever been to in my life. It was at a huge, beautiful home in Hancock Park. There were movie monsters throughout the house, and even a trail built outside, in the back, to scare you on your journey through "Horror Land." It was amazing!!!!

No one knew who anybody was because every single person was in costume. Even when you ate, you remained in disguise. IT WAS FANTASTIC!

Yesterday, when looking through my closet, I came across the costume I wore. Just hanging there--like I'd put it there the day before.

Believe it or not, it was a few years before I found out whose house it was . . . Shane Black's. LOL!

Terri,

I believe you.. But Shane mentioned just turning 40 a couple of times to me. One time was when I stepped out of the elevator at the Driskol Hotel.

Ron

" Hey.."

Shane

" Hey.. "

Ron

What's up..? "

Shane

Where can I get a cup of coffee..? "

Ron

" You're standing in front of the elevator, Shane.. Why don't you go downstairs.. "

Shane

" Oh... (grin) Just turned forty.. "

Ron

" See my gray hair.. Don't wanna' hear about it.. "

Ron--

Doesn't sound like he was saying that he "literally turned 40." Especially since his B-Day's not even that time of year. I think he was making a general comment.

After I turned 30, I had to stop and think how old I was whenever someone asked. And that hasn't stopped. Something I prefer not to think about. LOL!

Now, when it comes to Shane's well-known next door neighbor, she's a "living dinosaur." He should feel YOUNG next to her! LMAO! It appears that you have to be in that age bracket before L.A. names a street after you! Or just extremely wealthy--which she is. (I'm sure she'd LOVE Shane coming next door to borrow money from her should his financial status ever look like mine! LOL! She LOVES young men!)

Terri,

After ' The Long Kiss Goonight " or ' Goodbye ' or whatever - that he co produced or exec produced with Randy Harlin, Shane is set for life. Although he always wears this big old dark homeless guy overcoat.

Bye the way.. I remember Shane once said that he was thirteen when ' Dirty Harry ' came out. It's " naturally " one of his favorite movies..

Ron

Thanks Terri, I guess I'm just feeling philosophical today - or maybe there's just too much blood in my alcohol level.

Peace

Doreen

Ron--

Either you were drunk or Shane was yankin' your chain!

There's NO WAY Shane was 13 at the time WHEN HARRY MET SALLY was released.

1) LETHAL WEAPON was released in 1987. I remember living in Hollywood in October 1986 when all the Christmas lights and decorations were up for the filming.

2) Shane portrayed HAWKINS in the film PREDATOR, released in 1987. According to you, he was ten-years-old when he played that part the year before.

3) WHEN HARRY MET SALLY was released in 1989.

If Shane was 13 when that film was released, then--at nine or ten--he would've been probably the youngest Screenwriter to make a major screenplay sale ever! (Then I would REALLY hate him! LMAO!)

OMG! I'm the one who MUST BE DRUNK! I read that wrong. You wrote DIRTY HARRY, not WHEN HARRY MET SALLY!

My bad!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BTW--Shane turned ten in December of the year DIRTY HARRY was released (1971). If Shane had turned 13 the year DIRTY HARRY came out, he would've been born in 1958.

I think we already knew that MATH is not what Shane majored in at UCLA. LOL!

NOPE! No SCRIPT SEARCHES yet for today. Maybe TOMORROW! Keep your fingers crossed!

Terri,

Shane was born on 12/16/61

So, last October 2001 he was...

Ron

Who is Shawn Black? I can't find him on imdb or anywhere else. Is that a psuedonym for somebody important?

Alicia,

Check your spelling. It's "Shane" Black.

Here's the link on IMDB:

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000948/

Oh, SHANE Black. I know who Shane Black is.

ROFLMAO!!!! Sorry people I'm not awake yet. I think I need another diet Coke.

Peace,

Alicia

Apparently, a bunch of SCRIPT SEARCHES came in today--but you're gonna have to wait until tomorrow. SORRY! I'm too frickin' tired right now.

LATER!

Terri,

You are the girl whose daddy owns the candy store. You come to school with your sweet treats and dole them out one by one. Some days you tell us that you have a big bag of ju-ju beads at home but you forgot to bring them.

Sometimes you prank call people and say that you have Mike and Ike in a box and you're not letting them out.

I knew you in school. Remember me? I didn't think so.

Shell ;o)

Well I don't know what any of that means, Michelle. But I for one hope that Terri keeps sharing the SCRIPT SEARCHES because we're all in this together! It would be a better world if everyone would be just like Terri.

And second--thank you to everyone who gave me such good advise in this thread. Sorry it took me so long to thank you all but I've been so busy writing that I haven't had much time to go online.

Peace,

Alicia

Crapola! Advise? I meant "advice." That's what comes from staying up all night writing!LOL!

Michele,

Not sure what your message is, but if it is what it sounds like, do you mind giving Terri a little slack..

If you have material to send any of the leads she's generously provided, A simple thank you will do for starters..

If I'm wrong about my read, my apology..

Best,

Ron

This might be for someone here--

I am looking for a talented scriptwriter to write a feature length script based on the biblical story of Esther. Some knowledge and passion for the story would be preferable, but not essential – however passion for your work in general is a must. The script will be closely monitored by the director/producer and should be historically accurate and based on a number of texts surrounding the story.

It would be preferable if you are in Scotland, but again this is not essential.

Anyone interested can contact Theresa Blue at tlblue@btinternet.com

THANKS, STEVE! It's about time someone else posted some SCRIPT SEARCHES.

This isn't for me, but I know someone who is perfect for it!!!! This guy REALLY knows the Bible.

I'll be back in a couple hours or so to post at least one very fantastic SCRIPT SEARCH. This company has deals with two studios.

Thanks, Steve -- and Terri!!

Trust me if I get wind of any searches, I'll definitely post.

Jenney

I'm sorry I've been snarky lately, Terri. I shouldn't question your motives. I have no way of knowing what goes on in your head. But you do remind me of girls I knew in school. I remember a while back, you posted that you were doubting yourself, wondering if you should keep writing screenplays. Many of us jumped in to encourage you. Then you came back, telling us all the compliments you'd just heard about yourself from a "friend," whom you reported to us ended with, "and you look just like Alicia Silverstone, so there."

At that time, someone from the board wrote to me, "And what's with Mother Hen Terri doubting herself?" I wrote back, "She doubts herself in public, prompting us to jump in and say flattering things about her, and then she comes back and says the most flattering things of all, but in a way that looks like she's just passing on info. Mystery solved." It looked to me like the whole thing was "staged" to brag on yourself about your screenwriting ability and your looks. Or maybe our encouragements showed that we thought of you as "one of us" and that wasn't quite the level you were going for. I don't know you. You're a hard person to know. I'm an open book. I've made it really clear who I am -- a quiet, studious person with an unfortunate impulse for smart-mouthed remarks.

The trigger this time: I had just received an e-mail from someone who said, "God, I hate it when [Terri] does that. If she's got a script search [she should] just list it. But she gets off on dangling them out there and saying 'I've got a bunch of script searches but I'm too tired to tell you about them today.' Or, 'I've got a bunch of script searches, but I'm under strict orders not to share any of them with you.'" You yourself, I'm pretty sure, mentioned that it might be wiser to send them out only to people you believe can write a fairly decent script. That seems to make more sense than encouraging "60 people" you don't know from Adam to inundate these producers with scripts. Seriously, if they wanted their requests to be completely "open," wouldn't they post them under "Writers Wanted?"

Also, I'm not the only person who was offended by your suggestion that the reason nobody else here has posted script searches is because we're selfish. I regularly pass on requests TO PEOPLE I KNOW – I try to match up what I hear someone's looking for with someone I know who writes in that genre, or maybe I've read their script -- or just their log-line -- and think they'd be a good fit. I've also asked my own manager if he'd be willing to look at another writer's work, because I felt they would "click." And they did. Happy feelings all around.

Most of the people I share requests with are people I've met on-line -- most of them from MovieBytes! This IS a great place to network.

I'm surprised that you're so willing to share these "Script Searches" here, but not on the two private boards that you claim to be eligible to join.

Certainly I've been on the receiving end of criticism, when all I was trying to do was something helpful -- indeed the old saying is true, "No good deed goes unpunished." If that's the case, shame on me.

Shell

This is a really good one, people!

PRODCO WITH STUDIO DEALS SEEKS:

High concept Romantic and/or Broad Comedies.

If you have something, and you're a member who has posted on this site, e-mail me for details.

Okay, I just read a couple of posts here that makes it rather obvious that my sharing "insider Script Searches" is not appreciated. I never meant to offend anyone. Whenever I've found something, I've shared it with my friends and other Writers. In order to no longer offend anyone, I won't be posting anymore Script Searches.

Sorry out there to anyone who was offended.

. Looking for a family comedy that involves kids and parents... like Feaky Friday or Parenthood.

Tvqueen1@hotmail.com

I'm sick of people giving Terri grief for trying to help out people. Keep your bloody negativity to yourselves. Every party needs a pooper but try pooping in private.

Aloha

Damn, this really sucks. Why is it that someone always has to ruin it for everyone else? I must admit that I don't have many scripts lying around so it's not like I'm searching and searching through Terri's posts daily knowing there will be something for me, but there has been two that may have fit me and now I won't have this opportunity anymore and it pisses me off. She was doing something nice and giving access to some of us that don’t have it.

I hope you keep posting Terri, but in lieu of what's been said I can understand if you don’t.

Damn this sucks.

Michelle and Co.

Michelle - you come across in most of your postings as a very nice person - but IMHO your attacks on Terri are unwarranted - I myself enjoy a good confrontation, but I try to be objective, and only land well deserved, defensive haymakers.

I know from experience that you do take accountability for your big mouth - but attacking Terri again is out of line - we all know that she has only recently come back to this BB after a horrendous personal attack several weeks ago - and here you are starting again - on someone whose postings are inoffensive, invaluably helpful, and extremely generous.

Telling us she is too tired at the moment but has some useful info she will post later - it's a pretty small minded person who would take offense at this - particularly if they had any inkling of the work Terri must put in to the contribution she makes on and off this board - I have just counted - Terri has sent me 429 emails, many including attachments, in the last few months - and I know she helps dozens of us. Who else on this BB makes anywhere near the contribution that Terri does?

I begged people to read my screenplay when I first joined this BB - about three offered - one read the first ten pages before his ego kicked back in, and the others didn't even bother giving me any feedback - Terri told me she was very busy - but would look at my screenplay at a future date - she did! Terri gave me over fifteen pages of feedback on my first ten pages - what sort of selflessness is this? !!!!!!

Fortunately there are people on this board that don't need to put others down, appreciate the contributions of others, and above all, are prepared to accept the "face value" personalties portrayed here with tolerance and sincerity.

Some time back, there was a contributor to this board that attacked both Terri and yourself, in a most negative and unwarranted manor - petty is probably the word I'm looking for - that person no longer posts - and I for one don't miss him - I will sorely miss Terri, - and yourself for that matter should you no longer post.

Please encourage postiveness in this BB - not negativeness!

Regards

Wayne

I haven't posted for some time, as anyone who checks such things could verify; nor have I felt compelled to comment...until now.

Wayne covered it rather nicely, as did Ron and Eric, but as gentlemanly as there comments were, one salient point was not made, and that is that the sour-grapes display of Michele O. and her clear envy of Terri, always intrudes in her posts and serves primarily to deny others Terri's insights, contacts and helpful tidbits of the goings-on in the business.

If a poll were taken of the relative contributions to this BB by Michele O. and Terri, my money says that no real competition exists...except in the mind of Michele O. What has Michele O. contibuted, other than some information about a near-fatal incident involving one of her loved-ones...that served no purpose other than eliciting some expressions of sympathy. Such actions on Michele's part seem to me dangerously close to Munchousen-by-proxy. Aside from that, she has not failed in the self-serving, back-slapping that is indicative of an ego out of control. Perhaps her brush with fame--being another runner-up, but not winner, in a major screenwriting competition--came too quickly and too easily for her apparently fragile-though-transparent personality to assimilate with any mature degree of perspective. I strongly believe that, no matter how hard one might try to conceal one's attitudes, the real person shines through the writing endeavour; and it amazes me that Michele's writing, irrespective of the quality, was given recognition, though, in the end, there must have been something very wrong that was perceived by the judges; and perhaps that's why she is, like many of us, still a runner-up and not a big winner...except in her mind.

Many of the posts on this BB are helful, most are encouraging and offered with genuine best wishes; and occasionally there are the poisonous attacks on well-meaning persons, such as Michele's venom-spewing paranoia of Terri Dickey. Do we really care that Michele harbors resentments, questions Terri's motives, is an insecure and envious person? I could care less, except when Michele's attacks-- unwarranted attacks, in my opinion--are designed to quell valuable contributions of someone else.

Terry is very generous in sharing her script searches. Quite honestly, I used to do so as well, but now only pass on tips to writers I know personally. I was burned once too many times in the past.

Terri,

PRODCO WITH STUDIO DEALS SEEKS:

High concept Romantic and/or Broad Comedies.

Whew.. That was a good one..!!

Much appreciated.. As always.

Best,

Ron

Oh, my.

First of all, there's only one reason my Nicholl script didn't advance -- it wasn't good enough. I read the winners, and I can see why they won. I made that clear on this board and others when I congratulated the winners.

By the way, the Nicholl Committee sometimes has a very difficult time deciding the winners. Not last year. Unanimous.

My heart sunk when I heard that, not because I thought mine should have won, but because during the final round, my only thought was that this amazing group of people would look at my script and think, "Hmmm . . . How did THIS ONE get in here."

I've also read some of the semi-finalists scripts from last year -- one that I really was blown away by was Marleine Pacilio's BENEDICTION. It was an excellent read, and if it had won, I wouldn't have been surprised.

There's a lot of talent on this little old board.

I certainly have no illusion that coming in at finalist in the Nicholl means that I'm a better writer than others here. Good Lord, it's all so subjective. Oh, why do readers do what they do, do, do? We'll never know.

And look at how many scripts WIN contests and never sell. That's the real competition -- OUT THERE, in the real world.

Any excitement that I did show on the board over being named a finalist was just that. Excitement. Others here have shared their joy over their own accomplishments, and we're just happy for them. Many of us have nowhere else to go with that -- our own families don't understand our little writing obsessions.

And I have no illusions that my one little character-driven script impresses anyone in any way. It served to teach me how to write a script, and I'm grateful for the whole experience.

Forcing myself to rewrite it a couple of times, facing its problems and vowing never to make those same mistakes again, has been a good experience for me.

The fact that I've not finished another feature script, since, is very frustrating to me. I've got several "in the works" but I'm much more critical of anything I put onto paper now. I work hard every day, but it's a slow, one-little-step-at-a-time process.

I'm not in competition with Terri. There's nothing she has that I want. We're just two people who look at the world differently.

Shell

Kim,

I'm sorry that you'll now have to go straight to the source without the middleman:

myentertainmentworld.com

I just don't have the same tolerance for bullshit that some of you have.

Just keepin' it real,

Shell

I could post Script Requests here all day long.

Some from my Agent--NOT! But any of you who think these postings are special or anything- are wrong.

PRODCO WITH STUDIO DEALS SEEKS:

High concept Romantic and/or Broad Comedies.

Whew.. That was a good one..!!

Much appreciated.. As always.

This is from the Inktip Preferred from 2 weeks ago- this is already past it's usefullness.

If you want current Script Requests, I suggest going to Inktip for their Newsletter, the Preferred Newsletter, and as mentioned by Michele above,

myentertainmentworld.com

Go to Hollywoodlitsales.com or AAAwherescreenwritersgetnoticed.com

Let's be generous but let us look at the real picture.

Hell look at the Writers Wanted section of Moviebytes...

There is Karma and then there is KARMA... which one do you want?

Well I have 7 submissions to make from Script Requests that I found and got from people I know in the business-- so off I am on this beautiful Sunday morning- right after Church that is.

Steve

Steve--

Just because the SCRIPT SEARCHES Terri has posted can be found in all these other places online that does not mean that it didn't all happen the way Terri has stated. Those same production companies COULD HAVE sent Terri the same information and then also have posted it in all these other places on the web. You'd better get your facts straight before you go calling Terri a liar. Ron already asked her about inktip earlier and she laid that to rest. I for one believe her. What have you ever done here but stir up trouble make accusations and run away like a coward. You never have any proof and what has Terri EVER DONE to make you doubt her. I for one hope she comes back and posts her SCRIPT SEARCHES because she is probably the only hope any of you people have for ever finding someone to buy your third rate screenplays. Good luck to all of you without Terri on your side. If I were her I'd use my connections to get you all blacklisted in Hollywood.

NO PEACE FOR YOU,

Alicia

>>she is probably the only hope any of you people have for ever finding someone to buy your third rate screenplays. Good luck to all of you without Terri on your side. If I were her I'd use my connections to get you all blacklisted in Hollywood.

You heard it here first: Each and every one of you with an agent and/or a manager, FIRE THEM RIGHT NOW! You have NO HOPE!

Alicia, maybe you should let Terri speak for herself on this matter. You don't have to ride to her rescue with such side-splitting hyperbole. She's perfectly capable of explaining all of this script search stuff herself. I can't imagine she actually believes she is the Be All, End All, Great Guru of Hollywood, like you seem to think.

P. S. Even Michael Ovitz lost his power to blacklist people. How the mighty have fallen!

As far as I'm concerned, if there's a little redundancy out there in Script Posting land, that's ok. It's not " Bullshit. " As long as I learn about what people are looking for and who to contact, I value it. And if the Story Editor for the company that produced ' The Wedding Planner ' and ' Bringing Down the House, ' and has ' The Jetsons ' ' Topper ' and ' Enchanted ' in development - I'm very thankful to have been given a heads up that they are looking for new material.

Further, the fact that a lead was posted elsewhere - two weeks ago - is not the end of the world.. Th lead still has great value.

Pick up the Summer HCD. Get professional. Get busy. Give them something that they can sink their rejection, profit motivated, job saving focused teeth into - and their precious $$$. You'll be way too involved in the process to have time to complain about what you preceive are the flaws or motivations of a helping hand. Choose you're enemies.. But make sure you look in a mirror first..

Thank you again, Terri

" you're " your..

Sorry 'bout dat..

Ron

I agree with what most everyone said - Terri never said she was the "only" source, but there was a chance some of her script searches hadn't reached other websites yet. I think what she did was nice of her and I don't understand why people can't take it at face value. If you thought her script searches were crap then you didn't have to read this thread. Isn't the point of this BB to help others? To pass along information to those who haven't made it yet?

Kim

I don't care where Terri gets her leads, the fact remains that she is making a regular effort to help people. I used to be a regular poster on this BB but the petty personal attacks by several pathetic pissheads turned me right off. I know Terri better than most of you and I truly believe she is doing this without any devious hidden agenda. Can negative instigators like Shell and Steve say the same? If you don't like the thread she started, start your own and leave the people who strive to be constructive the hell alone. Paula says Terri should defend herself. Why the hell should she have to defend anything?

WOW! For starters- I am not trying to slag Terri. WE exchange e-mails and have talked at length about some of the people here and what they have said and done to her.

The woman is trying her best but what some of you idiots don't realize is that she also gets threatening e-mails and gets abused and harassed by the posters and non-posters of this site. I even know some of the names of these people but that doesn't matter.

My real point is that don't rely on Terri to make your career successful. She is a writer like any of us who puts out help and info.

Some of you talk about her like she is a God and that is getting down right freakin scary. I have read many posts today and some of you really need to take a reality check.

I laughed at the 3rd rate script line by someone up there- yes we are all hacks and you are the one that is going to make it. I hope when you're up there you look down upon us hacks and laugh. Black listing writers, how anti-American of you. Next you will be calling the FBI and putting us all on the Watch List.

Look after your own career- you are the only one that knows or cares where it will lead. Obviously, those who do try to help get beaned by snipes.

Steve

I'm not here to defend myself and I'm not about to read any of the posts, but someone e-mailed me that Steve C. stated that the last SCRIPT SEARCH post I made came from InkTip.com's Preferred Newsletter. It did not! And how would Steve know since he didn't e-mail me this time for this particular request? Hence, he never saw who the company was, etc.

Boy did this thread turn into a real train wreck...

Steve,

I can't speak for the other's, but I sure and hell didn't place Terri on a pedestal - I simply thought what she was doing was a nice thing. Say what you want but it still took time out of her day to post those messages to everyone and that was nice of her.

Kim

Okay, I'm looking at what I'm perceiving Steve C. to be talking about in the post that was e-mailed to me.

"I am looking for a completed high concept romantic comedy script in the vein of 'Meet the Parents' and 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding'."

NOPE, NOT IT!

"Budget range will not exceed 10mil."

DEFINITELY NOT IT!

I'm looking at the company name and their credits. I've never heard of the films they've done or their company. Not that it means anything. My point being--THIS IS NOT THE SAME COMPANY!

This is a little detour from the current conversation. On a recent Inktip newsletter, a company request required the writers to have a bachelors or masters in writing, and you needed to include information about your degree. So does that mean they would rather produce an average screenplay from someone with a masters in writing than an excellent script from someone with a bachelors or masters in another field, or no college at all? The other pet peeve I have is producers requesting scripts with very narrow descriptions, like a high concept action movie with a Peruvian lead character, set in Dubuque, but only open to Asian writers, budget not to exceed $1 million. Whatever happened to producers looking for the best possible work?

Boy, you're all so quick to jump on Michele, when all she did was speak the candid truth. IMO, if someone wants to post a script search here, they should post it and be done with it, instead of positioning themselves as some kind of gatekeeper.

And Terri, when someone says something negative to you, why the "I'm gonna pick up my marbles and go home" routine? I don't believe for one moment that you're leaving. Is it just so you can hear the "Oh Terri, please don't go!" chorus, and then show back up X days or X weeks later to express your gratitude for the voluminous support you received via email? I'm assuming you thanked these people via email, no? So why the public posting? If you want to leave, leave. If you want to stay, then discuss the issue with the person who posted the comment, and stay. It's really simple.

It's all getting way old. As for Michele's ego, you poor people are utterly delusional. Given the stage to which she advanced in the biggest competition in existence, you couldn't have possibly asked for anyone to be any more humble than she was. I think she's one of the most genuine people on here, a trait I appreciate far more than unending visibility. I also have a hunch she's one of the best writers here by about a mile.

Flame away; I don't give a rip. (Wayne, save your fingers; your rants don't warrant response.)

Jerry

Let's just end this string..

I'm out..

Ron

As this Thread ends, I'd like to bring something up that someone reminded me of yesterday:

I have never once--NEVER--said anything bad in a post about another Poster on the MovieBytes.com Message Board! NEVER!

How ironic is THAT?

Apparently, someone mentioned on this Thread that I called Writers "selfish." I think you'd better go back and read my posts. I stated just the opposite.

For those of you who waited until yesterday to e-mail me about Script Searches and haven't heard from me, well, as far as Script Searches, you won't. Not only will I not be posting anymore Script Searches due to the "situation of the last few days," but I will no longer be e-mailing any out.

I know MANY of you asked that I e-mail you Script Searches whenever I get them, even though I won't be posting them on MovieBytes.com. I'm sorry but that would just be too time-consuming for me right now. I'm currently not in the greatest of positions to do this. Not only do I have deadlines to meet, but I have to concentrate on my own work in order to keep my head above water.

Remember how I mentioned that I've probably had 50 "downs" for every "up" I've had? Well, right now, I'm in a spiral down that's spinning out of control. Though I'd love to help everyone out, I have to help myself first. Or there won't be any "me" to help anyone else.

Terri --

"Apparently, someone mentioned on this Thread that I called Writers 'selfish.' I think you'd better go back and read my posts. I stated just the opposite."

That was me.

"Come on, PEOPLE! Haven't you heard of the 'boomerang effect'? Good things will come to you IF YOU SHARE! But if you're 'selfish,' lightning may strike you! You wouldn't want THAT to happen, now would you? LOL!"

That was you.

Terri, I'm honestly sorry that you're going through a hard time. But this is the perfect time to find out who your true friends are. They are the ones who are going to care about you even if they disagree with some of the things you do or say. They're the ones who are going to still e-mail you and support you, even if you're too overwhelmed at the moment to do a damn thing for them in return. And they're going to rely less on hyperbole and hero-worship and more on a true exchange of affection.

Now's the time to test those friendships. If they're worth anything at all, they will not depend on what someone thinks you can do for their career.

Maybe it's time to start a new Script Search thread. It was a great idea. Shell

"No good deed goes unpunished."

Thanks a lot. Some of us appreciated Terri's posts.

Ridiculous.

Sheesh...what's happening here?

How about this...if you're not interested in these leads, don't read the thread.

Terri, FWIW, I appreciate your efforts.

Gotta agree with Betsy on this one.

The word "defend" is not in my post, Eric. I don't know where you came up with that. And I was addressing Alicia, NOT Terri.

Sorry, Paula, I should have said EXPLAIN.

I don't have to explain anything. I already posted where the Script Searches come from that I receive by e-mail. Once is enough. (As previously stated, NONE have come from InkTip.com.)

And, as everyone who e-mailed me apparently "got it"--but one Poster on this site didn't, I never called any Writer "selfish." Not only was the word "if" in that sentence, but I was making a point--in a joking manner--about sharing Script Searches with others.

There was someone yesterday who e-mailed me for a Script Search posted a long time ago. I do not recognize the e-mail or the name. Just to let you know, whoever you are, I did respond but you don't have your Earthlink account set up to accept my e-mail. Hopefully, you'll see this post and know that I tried. Not only is the Script Search you requested no longer available, but I stated on this Thread that I would not be sending out anymore leads re: Script Search Requests.

Terri

Lets face it! - you got too big for your boots! - in the eyes of the big - headed small minded bully brigade - the sort of people that have some sort of disfunctional personality that needs to put others down in order for them to feel that their lives are worth living ( unfortunately they're everywhere!!!)

Posting searchs in any old thread was one thing - but having the forsight to start posting on a dedicated thread, and having too many people realise that your star shines brighter than most on this BB - heavens forbid!!! - they couldn't help themselves - they had to take you down a few pegs on their percieved pecking order of "superiority" - and the pent up resentment sent those rocks flying!!!

The only bullshit flying around has been their accusations - they've given it their best shots - from Michelle calling your script searches bullshit, and her latest rubbish - telling you "this is when you find out who your true friends are", - to Jerry's usual and predictable put-down attempt calling my quite reasonable post a "rant" - another futile attempt Jerry!!

I have been too busy for some months to take my screenplay any further,and, truthfully, I doubt it will ever go any further, - so I certainly don't keep in contact with Terri, or anybody, to "help my career" - but it is notable how the sort of people that knock Terri use this accusation - it speaks volumes about their personalities -

I keep in contact with Terri because she is friendly, - her star really shines with warmth on this BB - I respect the work she does both on and off this BB, - and I know she needs a friend or two - she needs encouragement too!! - it would be nice to meet her,and others, one day!!

As I have said before - the relationships on this BB are "face value" - we all correspond in a medium of good faith - it would be nice if everyone could remember that!

Regards

Wayne

As previously stated, due to recent circumstances on this thread, I will not be sending out anymore Script Search leads.

Many of you, mostly those I've never heard of before, continued to e-mail me this past week for Script Search leads previously posted on this Thread. (Which makes me assume that readers of this site are not going to the bottom of the Thread.)

I continued to respond and send you the lead(s)--IF it/they was/were still available (many were too OLD).

As of today, I will absolutely no longer be sending out Script Search leads. Even if I wanted to, I just don't have the time. I've been doing editing and re-write jobs to keep my head above water--and coming home very late. If you don't see this post, tough titty.

Flush, and hopefully things won't clog.

m f

To put a smile on every Writer's face, I'd like to quote a friend who said a very wise line yesterday when we were discussing something totally unrelated to this Thread--but it still sounds appropriate.

"Sex only lasts so long . . . then there's the trash."

Since I have an office in Brentwood now, I haven't been on my home computer for almost a week. I apologize to many of you who e-mailed me earlier this week, asking for Script Search Requests.

As previously stated on this Thread, I'm not sending anymore out. Granted, I just found 25 this morning. But it's just not worth posting the info and being accused by one or two posters of having an agenda and only wanting one thing--HERO WORSHIP!

Twenty-five?? In one morning??

I'm so embarrassed.

Because I thought you were a jerk when you only got, like, one or two a day. You know, back when the only reason you told us about them was so you could share, and all.

Forgive me.

My Agent and I surfed through 23 requests...I wonder what the other 2 were?

Damn Terri- why are you not an Agent/Manager? You'd be perfect for that- think How many clients you could get from here alone.

Steve- and I'm in Montreal now- is it really me?

YOU CRACK ME UP, STEVE!

Terri,

If you're not going to share your leads, please don't broadcast the fact that you have so many. I've supported you on this matter, but to inform this string after all the dirt it's been dragged through that you continue to get many, many leads, and that you've just rcvd a big new pile - as part of a reminder to everyone that you will share none of them with anyone, is simply not right..

You could have just informed those on this string who are still contacting you for leads - to simply STOP, without mentioning the vast volume of leads you've so often reminded us that you have..

For those of you who are still sending requests to Terri - please STOP.. She gets a lot of leads. She's not going to share them with you or anyone..

I hope this doesn't start another round of ugliness.. I want no part of it. But, when I saw this, I felt something had to be said. Please.. Give it a break..

Terri,

The above came as a friend.. Please don't continue to " dangle " leads in front of people who are so desperately trying to break in.. It doesn't help..

Best,

Ron

It takes a lot of time to email people with info about companies and Terri was nice enough to do this. And I do believe that she does get some inside information.

Michele, after reading your comment about your Nicholl script, I was really heartbroken for you! To come that close. Your script must have been great! Please, please, don't beat yourself up so much. Toot your horn, honey, and get another script to FADE OUT.

Did you read my thread about "procrastination?" Join me in my "NO MORE PROCRASTINATION!!!!" efforts. What have you got to lose?

PS I completely understand about your family not really being in tune with the writing life. My DH says that if I was gonna make it, I would have already done so. But, he does help me purchase supplies, equipment, etc. I appreciate that more than he'll ever know.

A few months ago I was about ready to pack it in, then I had a dream and when I woke up this sentence was in my head ------"Don't give up too soon."

If you truly enjoy writing, creating stories and memorable characters, then that's what I'd like to say to you---Don't give up too soon. Take care.

Don't cry for me, Argentina.

Sorry. Family expression. :o)

Anyway, Sue, it wasn't a great script. But it was good. And I think my rewrites have improved it.

While I would have liked to win -- who wouldn't? -- I knew that it wasn't good enough to earn the fellowship.

That's not low self-esteem talkin'. Just a fact.

And my family, fortunately, is pretty supportive. They see how hard I work at it and they know that, for at least the next couple of years, it will be my job.

Happy writing,

Shell :o)

Great! Good luck with your next script.

Thanks, Sue, for the encouragement!

Good luck to you too,

Shell :o)

Terri --

Thanks for posting those script requests.

Your heart was in the right place and I applaud your efforts.

Doug