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I’m a producer, so when I write about screenwriting, I’m usually thinking in terms of budget, marketplace and return on investment. That being said, one thing many writers try to do is follow current movie trends and then pitch me on the marketability of the script and potential movie, not the quality.

I can think a few years back when natural disaster and Sci-Fi movies were popular. It seemed everyone was writing them. During that time, I can’t tell you how many pitches my production company got that sounded like this (note, many of the pitches used the buzz phrase Four-Quadrant) :

Dear Mr. Brubaker,

Are you looking for your next Four-Quadrant natural disaster, Sci-Fi movie? I have an idea that will blow you away. It’s about the end of the universe and involves spaceships and aliens and zombies and disease and it includes a love story. Please email me back today because this is going to make BILLIONS! And I can only wait a few minutes for your response before I pitch this to someone else.

Thanks!

Amateur Allen

I really wish I was kidding. But before you write this sort of email, please ask yourself: Do I need screenwriting help?

My point today is:

1. Write because you really enjoy what you’re writing.
2. Don’t pitch people who aren’t in the market for your product.
3. When you do pitch people, please don’t make assumptions about ROI.
4. I don’t know about you, but I’m sick of Four-Quadrant anything.
5. Please don’t pretend you have leverage until you do.

Related posts:

1. Screenwriting is writing.

Posted under SCREENWRITING