Question by Sdff Sfdsfd: FILM industry question. PLEASE HELP ME?
Okay im gonna try to make this short so bear with me please.
Im a 17 year old student living in the US and im very interested in the film industry. Recently for a few years i have had several great ideas (at least i think so) for screenplays and story lines. I started writing on of the screenplays about a year ago and im hoping to finish it up in a couple months. This leads me to ask what can i possibly do with the screenplay that i have written. I am stuck on two different options as i can either sell my screenplay if i find an agent. OR I can just make an independent film.
To clear things up this isnt just a get rich fast scheme or anything, and im not some dumb high school student thats going to fail so im trying to run away from my problems. Im going to a very good university and getting a degree no matter what. Also about the independent film, i am being funded my parents (no more than 10,000 USD max, although i suspect it will be less). I have no formal experience acting or filming, but i am taking classes this summer during the summer. After these classes i hope to perhaps film it if i go that route.
Can somebody please explain to me this first. The difference between selling my screenplay (which ill have to find an agent first) the pros and cons. And then the pros and cons of making an independent film.
Next can someone tell me which one i should consider doing. I have some friends (some who are good actors and were in theatre classes and plays) who would be willing to act in my film. I am hoping to myself as well.
So should i try finding an agent and selling the screenplay. Or should i make an independent film. Also can anyone tell me the chances of being successful and actually making some money in each of these endeavors. Im not hoping for like millions of dollars or anything but at least some amount so i can start off my career in what i love to do.
Edit i have been in plays before but i just have no training.
Also what are the chances of an independent film going viral and getting into cinemas and theatres and what is the process of getting it into theatres as well.
Also what is the complete process of getting my screenplay sold for a good chunk of money (not like millions again) but at least a nice sum for my work. I know it wont be much for a first time but since i feel ive put in my best into this peice of writing i hope to be compensated at least a little.
Thanks for everyones help. Ill take anyone advice but id also prefer it at the same time if you have actually had experience working in the industry.
Thanks.
Anastacia thanks so much for your help. I am off to college soon so i could possibly make the movie in the university. Thanks for the help! =)
Best answer:
Answer by Darth Eugene Vader
Im no expert, but I would recommend finding an agent and keeping the $ 10K for college education expenses.
What do you think? Answer below!