20 October 2011
Recently, I had the chance to ask Alice Addison, screenwriter of The Hunter, a few quick questions about getting started as a working screenwriter in Australia. Here's what she had to say:
Q:
In your opinion, what is the best way for a screenwriter who has yet to develop any relationships with feature film producers in Australia, to get his/her material in front of those producers, especially those looking for new talent?A:
I would say getting a job (ideally part-time so that you can keep writing) as an assistant or development manager for a producer is a great way to begin a working relationship. My first job after leaving film school was as the assistant to Penny Chapman (Matchbox). You learn a lot about the business that way, meet a lot of good people in the industry and get a real education in the development process. It also pays your bills while your writing career is getting going. And if the producer you work for likes your stuff, then you will end up writing for them, as happened for me with Penny.
In addition to this, I would say the key is getting an agent. There are about three or four established agencies in Australia but lately there have been a few agents who have come from these places and gone out on their own. These people might be good to target as they’re looking for writers/directors etc at the start of their careers, who they can develop long term working relationships with.
Q:
Do you feel the majority of Australian feature film screenwriting opportunities come to those who write for TV, or should a screenwriter look at the global market for screenwriting work (i.e. LA, London etc.)?A:
I don’t know that there are any hard and fast rules about this. I think you should identify producers who have the same sensibility as you and send them your work (ideally through an agent).
Screenwriting competitions are certainly good for lifting your profile (if you win).
I think if you sit around and wait for people to offer you work it won’t happen. Much better to generate your own.Q:
Anything you wish you had known when you were starting out?A:
Hmmm... I’m not sure. The best advice I got when I was starting out was to seek to work with people with more experience than me, and I have to say that has served me well.
I hope you found this helpful! It's not an easy gig but people do pull it off. If you haven't yet, be sure to go see The Hunter in cinemas while you still can. Please, if you found this helpful, consider clicking the like button or sharing it around with the buttons bellow. All the best!