I'm writing to report good news.
If you come to many ScreenPlayLab events you probably know Brian Frederick, who's active in ScreenPlayLab. His treatment for 'Repo' sold thanks to networking Brian did at a ScreenPlayLab mixer. If you'd like to ask him about it, you can. He'll be at our next FREE mixer coming up in Beverly Hills on Monday. To RSVP:
www.screenplaylab.comAt a free ScreenPlayLab mixer earlier this year, Brian commented to me how difficult it is to break into the business. I suggested he adopt a different attitude that night, that "it's easy". Before the mixer I'd talked with Michael Bay, who shared with me the story of Steven Spielberg calling him to ask him to direct 'Transformers'. Michael's response was to Spielberg was, "I don't know." Obviously, Michael Bay isn't thinking it's hard to get a break. Having confidence is a great advantage, and you don't have to be Michael Bay. Anybody can project confidence.
After hearing the story about Michael Bay, Brian said, "I see what you mean." About twenty minutes later, still at the ScreenPlayLab mixer, Brian met writer-producer Doug Draizin of Epigram Entertainment. Doug is known for producing 'Fools Rush In' with Matthew Perry and Salma Hayek. Doug's currently in post-production with 'A Jersey Christmas'. Doug's website is
www.truestories4hollywood.com.
Brian says that when he initially pitched ideas, Doug wasn't interested. Instead of being disappointed, Brian took the attitude, "whatever happens, happens." By the end of the evening he was asked to write a treatment for his sit-com about a repo man. Brian then met many times with Chad Eicher, who does development at Epigram Entertainment. "I probably got a thousand dollars worth of their time," says Brian. They were advising Brian how to write the best treatment, how to win.
There was soon interest in Brian's treatment from a reality producer to reformat the idea into a reality show. Brian says he was advised against accepting that, to wait for a better offer. Again, confidence. It's writer-director Kyle Bergersen who paid to option Brian's treatment. Bergersen is known for directing 'The Stigmata'. Bergersen also directed 'Love Comes to the Executioner', which Doug produced.
"I met Doug in the secret room at Sharky's, which will always have a special place in my heart," says Brian. "I'm truly grateful to Doug and Chad and to ScreenPlayLab, to Robin and Gabrielle for putting these things together." Thank you, Brian! We're excited for your success.
Brian Frederick is currently rewriting his crime mystery novel 'Pawns'. Brian helps me as associate producer for COMEDY WALK. And, he writes for me as a journalist at Hollywood Today, where he's had dozens of articles published and a million readers. "Every day is one day closer to that big deal," says Brian. "I'm inspired."
I hope you can make it to the secret room Monday night and that you find your opportunity and inspiration there.
Seeking Comedy Writer...New web series with September shoot dates seeking experienced comedic writer. Mockumentary style in the vein of 'Arrested Development' meets 'Thelma and Louise' with a dash of 'The Office'. Please submit comedic writing samples and resume or any questions to Juliana: CYOBProductions @ gmail.com by 5pm Tuesday, July 22nd. Pay is back-end negotiable.
Seeking Producer's Assistant...Writer-producer based in Beverly Hills seeking reliable part-time assistant. Light data entry. Research on web. Follow up emails. Assist during production and casting. Must be prompt with positive attitude. Must already live in Beverly Hills or nearby. Opportunity to use Final Cut Pro HD editing system. Flexible part-time hours. Unpaid. Email resume to me to forward with the subject 'Producer's Assistant' and include a brief note why interested. Submissions that don't follow directions will be ignored. All others should get a response.
ScreenPlayLab Mission...ScreenPlayLab is more than 2,700 upbeat producers, actors, writers, directors, agents and executives working on comedy and light drama for television and film. FREE membership. FREE events. To join send an email to info@ScreenPlayLab.com with the subject 'Subscribe'.
Love you guys!
