Didn’t get a chance to ask this during the webinar, but putting it out here because I’d love to hear from any working writers or reps who’ve navigated this stage—what worked for you?” Hi everyone!
My name is Ryan Wilford—originally from Chicago, now based in Los Angeles. I’m an upcoming screenwriter focused on creating films and stories that explore themes of mental health and personal growth. I’m really looking forward to learning, connecting, and hearing from all of you today.
I have a two-part question:
1. Once you’ve polished your script as a non-represented writer, what’s the first strategic step you recommend taking—especially knowing that most submissions will be considered unsolicited? And with that in mind, do you think it’s more important for a new writer to prioritize finding a manager or agent, or should the focus be on building a portfolio and relationships first?
2. In today’s industry landscape, how realistic is it for an emerging writer without representation to get their script in front of the right people—like producers, managers, or decision-makers? What approaches actually work?
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Hey, Ryan Wilford. The first step I take is network/look for producers and directors to pitch my script to. I definitely think a new writer should focus on building a portfolio and relationships first.
Emerging writers without reps can get their scripts in front of the right people in today's industry landscape. It's about the quality of the script, the concept, positioning yourself to meet those people (like networking, Stage 32's script contests, email query letters, and cold calls), and timing. I don't remember their names, but I've read posts on Stage 32 about writers placing in contests (Stage 32 contests and other contests) and getting Double Recommends on Stage 32 with their first scripts.
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Maurice Vaughan Thank you for the insight! Did you or do you enter contest? Awesome feedback, appreciate it.
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You're welcome, Ryan Wilford. I haven't entered a feature script contest in a long time, but I've been thinking about entering a Stage 32 contest. I mainly entered contests when I was a new screenwriter. My scripts weren't ready though, and I barely got feedback on my scripts back then. Those were big mistakes.
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Maurice Vaughan Thanks for the transparency, that's kind of where I am as far as the contest. I did enter two prior to doing my re-write which I'm currently doing. I stopped everything to focus on the re-write for now, then starting my 2nd screenplay. One of the contest is based on the overall story and not the formatting and technical script aspects, so there's still hope for feedback there lol but thanks again!
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You're welcome, Ryan Wilford. That's great that you're focused on getting your first script in shape. It's better to get a script in shape than rush it for a contest, but some contests like Stage 32's contests have the option where you can enter your script, then submit another draft later on, so you'll have time to get the script in shape.
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Ryan Wilford I love the thoughtful way you’re approaching this, you’re asking the right questions.
The writers who build strong foundations first tend to have more lasting success. That means stacking your portfolio with a few great samples, getting active in screenwriting communities (like here on Stage 32), and developing real, genuine relationships with other writers, producers, execs, and filmmakers. Those connections are often what open doors long before formal representation comes.
For getting your work seen, a lot of writers here have had success with Stage 32 consultations, pitch sessions, and the Writer’s Room: https://www.stage32.com/writers-room/plans-vip. You might also want to reach out to the Success Team at Success@Stage32.com. They can help you create a strategy for your goals and projects.
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Hi Ryan Wilford - you're definitely on the right path and asking the right questions. There's a lot of good advice here. The only thing I would add is to learn all you can about other aspects of the film business...especially producing. If you have a bug to act, take an acting class. If you would like to some day produce your own work, take some Stage 32 classes on production (I did and they're wonderful). Learn all you can which brings me to my side point - I'm not a fan of the word, "newbie" because learning really never ends. Learn as much as you can for as long as you can. You're going to do great Ryan.
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Ryan Wilford I think there's a lot of great advice here. I don't really have anything else to add, but I will say that I encourage you to continue to share your journey with us here on Stage 32. Your questions are the kinds of questions I'm sure many here also have.
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Hey Ryan Wilford being out in LA already, it's easier than you think to get your script's in the right people's hands, even as a newbie. One way I've made a lot of industry contacts living out here is just through daily life. I've met big producers, big managers, agents at big firms, great directors and actors by simply living (and being a very social person). I've met them at the dog park, on hikes, at restaurants and bars in my neighborhood, at museums, at coffee shops, at the ball games, through dating(!!), at the gym, in classes (like a pottery one I took where I was sat next to a TV Producer and we became pals), at screenings, at networking events, in acting/improv classes, in workshops, at yoga, at plays, at comedy shows, through rec league sports, heck my landlord's a TV Lit Agent and I met him through signing a lease! All you gotta do is put yourself out there and do stuff to try to make new friends. Then, once you make a connection, develop the relationship by asking them to coffee or lunch and bonding as pals. If you throw a little get-together, night outing, or have an extra ticket to a ball game, invite them along and focus on building the relationship. It's not a fast way to do things and there's no magic bullet approach, but getting people on your side through creating strong, positive personal relationships is a great way to make inroads. And as long as your relationships are real/folks don't feel like you're using them for their access, more often than not, they'll take a look eventually or pass your script along to someone they know. It's a great part of being in LA!
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Ashley Renee Smith Thank you so much for the reply and feedback I'll definitely check out those resources. Regarding the success team, what you provided, is that an email to reach out to the success team? If so, is there a particular format or suggestion when reaching out to them via the email provided?
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Leonardo Ramirez I appreciate the advice! Thank you. Currently, aside from working on my rewrite, I'm doing research on how money moves through the industry and the numbers involved, as well as the different roles in the ladder of the industry. I'm trying to be well versed on it all. I definitely understand that regarding "newbie", thanks for your honest feedback.
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Tucker Teague Thank you Tucker! That is definitely my plan. I've been loving this site and everyone on here has been helpful and amazing to connect with. I plan to share my journey, connect, interact with post and utilize this site as a networking tool for sure!
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Sounds super interesting Ryan Wilford. Thanks for elaborating!
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Pat Alexander I really appreciate the detail here. I'm definitely trying to put myself out there more, whether it be via in person networking or virtual. How do you position yourself to have those conversations with strangers and to find that connection? Is it by chance that some of the people you connect with are in the industry? or specific areas you frequent. I'm someone who likes to build authentic connections, but knowing how and where can sometimes be my blockers.