I wrote my first screenplay when I was 15. It wasn’t great—in fact, it was pretty bad. I didn't know the basic rules of structure or format. I had a sense of what storytelling was and the kind of stories I wanted to tell, but that was it. I also didn’t know that a first draft is never a finished script, but that is another story.
The Naive Ambition
Once I typed “The End,” I was (or so I naively thought) ready for production. Another thing I had no clue about. So, I took what I thought was the next step and researched production companies and their contact details. I'm talking about Disney, Warner Brothers, and Sony—because why not? I gathered their phone numbers and dialed long distance.
Yes, I called all the major film studios directly by phone at a time when calling long distances was EXPENSIVE.
The Cold Calls
Out of all the calls, I managed to get through to three studios. For one of them, I was put through to the Department of Content and Development, where decisions are made when done right. They politely told me that they weren’t open for submissions and wished me luck.
At the second studio, I was given an email address to contact someone who wasn’t the receptionist. They didn’t know what else to say.
The third studio was Disney, and yes, like everything else they do, that call was magic. I got through to a lovely receptionist who, unlike everyone else, asked some probing questions. She inquired if I had an agent and whether I was physically in LA. I said no. Then she asked for my age, and I could hear her sympathy on the other end of the phone. After all, a 15-year-old with a story to tell and a terrible plan is somewhat adorable.
The Magical Call
She took the time to explain that submissions to studios are only accepted from agents (she had to explain what an agent is, too). She provided advice on how to get representation, how agents handle negotiations, encouraged me to keep writing, and wished me more than luck. It felt as if this stranger on the phone believed in me and wanted me to succeed.
I had never felt better about my writing career at that point. I did keep writing and began my journey to find an agent, which is how I was scammed out of my savings, but again, that’s another story.
The Aftermath
I also got a proper scolding from my parents when the phone bill came that month, and they found out that my creative endeavors had exceeded the long-distance minutes quota our phone service offered. I believe I spent a few summers paying the money back.
This was my first encounter with the film industry and the many secrets it holds. As a young teen, I had a taste of what navigating the industry is like without formal education on the topic and living in a place where the industry is small or non-existent. This experience is one of the main reasons I believe in the power of community to thrive creatively.
Reflections and Lessons Learned
Looking back, I see how important it is to understand the basics before diving into something big. My experience taught me about persistence, the importance of proper guidance, and the value of community support. For any aspiring writers out there, remember that every misstep is a step toward learning and growth. Keep writing, keep dreaming, and never be afraid to ask for help (do avoid expensive calls though).
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