London 1666 is currently in a very interesting position. Writer Phil Skipp has gotten through to some A-List talent who can’t be named because they are currently reviewing the script. What I can reveal, however, is that these A-List Stars have appeared in some of your favorite movies.
But how was Phil able to get through to A-list talent without an agent or an attached director? It’s quite simple, after a writer finishes his/her screenplay one just has to be fearless.
When a producer and writer team up to transform a screenplay into a motion picture, they are often stuck in a catch-22. One option is to go after a director, either by finding an agent or contacting the director’s people.
Susan Kouguell writes in “The Savvy Screenwriter” writing a synopsis or treatment for your motion picture project is a good idea before contacting an agent. Agents will ask for either of these when considering your project. The Savvy Screenwriter also points out various methods in contacting an agent; such as logging onto The Writer’s Guild of America to find a list of talent and screenwriting agents and agencies.
If you decide to go after a director be sure to sign up for IMDb Pro or pick up a Hollywood Directory. Both of these resources will provide vital contact information to your dream director. The Savvy Screenwriter suggests you “do your homework” and make sure you know what projects your director usually takes on.
Another option writers and producers can do is approach the actors and actresses without an attached director. Either option leaves the producers in a tough bind: If an actor agrees to sign onto the script before the director is on board, the director may later not want that certain actor. If a director is attached to the script an A-List actor or actresses somewhere down the road may not want to work with the director.
Currently, the producers of London 1666 are trying to find the best combination to bring the fires of London to life. Writer Phil Skipp has fearlessly decided to go after both the director and actors/actresses simultaneously. The result has been overwhelming over five incredible directors are currently looking at the script, along with several A-List actors/actresses.
Next the producers look at finance and their task is to make this project attractive to investors. It’s a tireless role contacting, phoning and pitching the project to financiers. However, again Phil and producers have managed to attract significant interest from very well respected funding bodies.
With a lot of hard work and sleepless nights, everything is lining up! This is the key element of a feature film project, lining up all the elements. It’s like a circle and as more is attached the circle gets smaller and smaller until you have complete alignment and BANG! Your project is ready to start pre-production.
Phil has one rule of thumb that keeps his mind on the game “you’ve got to love your project and be persistence 100%, you are the salesman”. Your passion will attract other people along the way that is the way to make a fantastic feature film that will appeal to a world-wide audience!
