5. REVISING YOUR SCREENPLAY

Once your script is written, you should polish it up before you put on the market. Be sure it is as clean as you can make before you send it out. If you want to get your screenplay copyrighted you can go to the website for the US Copyright Office. It is not usually necessary to get a copyright on your work, but if you are concerned about plagiarism or theft of your idea a simple remedy is to copy your screenplay, place it in a manila envelope and mail it to yourself. Don't open it when you receive it. The postmark will serve as a creation date and proof of ownership. It isn't always a failsafe idea however. If these options still don't alleviate your concerns you should contact a lawyer for further options.

Send out your screenplay and cross your fingers. Not everybody knows someone and most writers have to send in their screenplays, just like you. While your screenplay may not get the attention you want it to receive by simply mailing it in, other options are hard to come by. You can attempt to get an agent or other representation (if you don't already have it), which will assist you in getting your screenplay to the right place and hopefully read, but that is the only guarantee. Most agents only prefer to work with writers who have sold at least some material, however. Remember, Hollywood isn't the only place to sell screenplays. There are many different small production companies and even local theater troupes that take on different screenplays. Don't let yourself be easily discouraged!

Night Owl Productions

Amaze Films

Kanto Productions

The best thing you can do is try and try again. The hardest part to achieve is the format, and technology is making even that a lot easier. Once you make the effort, you will surely decide it was well worth it. Best of luck and happy writing!