Interview of opportunity....

 This year I was blessed to attend a free webinar with screenwriter Michael Elliot in regards to an online forum that Mr. Elliott started which allows aspiring screenwriters an opportunity to get hands on advice from him through live video conferencing. Well, Mr. Elliott has set up a packaged Webinar titled, "PITCH TO SELL" Part 2 for the month of September and of course I also participated....After attending The Ladder: Produced Screenwriters Helping Aspiring Screenwriters once again I am definitely on fire with ideas!

His goal is to give ‘insider’ tips and advice from a self-taught writer who has sold over 25 projects and written four studio produced films including Like Mike, Brown Sugar and Just Wright. Im here to tell you that he did that and a lot more. He allows you, the participant to be interactive as we ask questions that he responds to while sharing his story and techniques. The package that I purchased included a copy of pitch materials that he used to sell his ideas and win over the executives that he met with.

Ques: when it comes to writing, why is it important to use a beat sheet?

Ans: its important to use a “beat sheet” as a blueprint for writing your script from beginning to  completion. Its important to write without stopping. Don't even stop to edit until you have a complete story. It's important to get the story out of your head.

Ques: Why is it important to have pitch materials?

Ans: Its not really about the materials more so than just being prepared. You have to command the attention of the room and show that you know what your vision is.

Ques: How did you pitch Brown Sugar as a project?

Ans: Well I didn't pitch Brown Sugar I sold it as a Spec script.

Ques: What advice would you give to upcoming writers and directors?


Ans: Make a list of the last twenty films that have come out and study them. If your craft is film, then you should know film. Know your craft. Don't be lazy because it will show.

Mr. Elliott not only sold us an idea and gave us an opportunity but he also gave us tools. I’m preparing to use those tools and not sit them on a counter to collect dust. Indeed, I would like to thank Mr. Elliott for sharing his story and his time. :)