Getting your script read

Just so you writers know what you're up against... This is a sentiment I have heard many times. For writers, it's key to get your work read. Friends are good, critical people are better, and people in a position to help you are the best. But no one is looking for more scripts to read:

This is also shooting something that sells you or your idea is usually a good strategy. It is easier to get someone to watch than read. That's why it's often a smart move to shoot something so sell you and your idea. It's easier to get people to watch than read. People shoot scenes, opening, trailers, and shorts. A common tactic now is to create what's called a rip-o-matic. Basically, that's a trailer created with footage from other shows to sell an idea. Here's one that was made to help sell Looper.

And here's an actual teaser for the film. See how close they are?

I helped developed the pitch materials for a reality show called Russian Roulette. Despite its macabre title, RR was a fairly traditional quiz show with a gimmick. If you missed a question, there was a chance the floor dropped out from under you. When the producer tried to sell it, people loved the idea but couldn't figure out how it could practically work. So we brought in some friends of mine, shot a 60 sec promo for it with the fall (only a few feet!), and then it quickly sold to Sony International. The show eventually aired in over 20 countries. Pretty simple, but it didn't sell until it was made simpler.

Please stay in touch means something

Quick note: "Please stay in touch" as industry speak is actually a good thing to hear. It means - I have nothing concrete now but please keep checking in with me as there is something about you or your project that I like. It is an invitation to keep in touch in case something happens or changes with you or them, and more importantly the person believes it could. This is along the lines of "Please remind me about this...." or "Check in with me later...." Frankly, these are the best things you'll hear beyond a yes. Believe me, if people don't want you to contact them or really don't like your or your project, you won't hear anything. And that's the norm. But if you hear this, you really must actually stay in touch. Mark your calendar and then do so. Such invitations aren't all that common, and you should respond with grace and thanks. I've done so for over a year, reminding someone about a project as per his or her request. And it paid off.


Welcome to the blog! Please check key docs for critical information, the about George Larkin page to hear more about me, and come back here for more timely news. Please also check out the Facebook group at And sign up for the mailing list. I'll just send key info occasionally. I hope it's helpful. Please spread the word!