Billy’s second session was more about the current trend in comedy toward the raunchy, Judd Apatow type of humour. Establishing The Comedic World The first thing you need to do in order for audiences to accept this kind of humour is to establish likable characters.  If we like the characters, we’re willing to go anywhere [...]

Continued from yesterday’s article on Danny Manus’ guide to the pitchfest. Pitching Do’s and Don’ts: What not to Pitch: The period piece. Anything before 1970 is considered a period piece.  It’ll be hard to sell, but if you have a solid story and rockin’ script, pitch it. The mega-budget sci-fi fantasy epic trilogy No production [...]

Ever wonder what it’s like to attend a screenwriters’ pitchfest?  Courtesy of Tim Coyne’s The Hollywood Podcast, here’s an excellent audio clip of real pitches that work and a lot that don’t.  See if you can tell the difference.  Thanks, Tim!

Continued from yesterday’s post on Danny Manus’ seminar on pitchfests. Preparing for the Pitch: This was a tricky section because as useful as it was to first-timers, it was totally pointless for those who just spent a lot of money to travel to the Expo preparing to pitch only to be told they’re not ready. [...]

The first day of the Expo was kind of weak.  If you’ve never pitched before and you’re there to learn about pitching, it’s worthwhile.  If you’re there to pitch, skip this day and work on your pitch instead.  The two dominant seminars of the day were hosted by Daniel Manus.  He is, according to Screenwriter [...]