“Unlocking Hollywood: Is the Dream of Being a Screenwriter a Daring Gamble or a Realistic Reality?”
Ever found yourself scrolling through your inbox, wondering if the path to a successful screenwriting career is paved with glittering opportunities or merely a mirage? A recent email I received tackled this very question: “Is it realistic to expect a long-term career as a screenwriter?” As someone who’s navigated the ebbs and flows of Hollywood and the creative arts, my answer might surprise you. Spoiler alert: it’s not as straightforward as one might hope! In this piece, I’ll not only dive into the reality of screenwriting careers but also share some insights from my own experiences. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s explore the complexities of chasing this dream. If you’re ready for a deep dive into the world of screenwriting, just wait until you hear what I have to say. LEARN MORE.
My response to an email query.
An excerpt from an email I received today: Is it realistic to expect a long-term career as a screenwriter? Here’s my response.
The short answer: No.
I wrote about this in a blog article: Movies don’t owe anybody a living.
This extends to anyone seeking to do anything in the creative arts. We simply cannot expect to make money at it, certainly not something sustainable for a long period of time.
That is not to say it’s impossible. There are thousands of screenwriters in Hollywood right now who have made a living at it. I had a strong 15-year run in Hollywood and have had some success with my writing even after I left L.A. and I’m nowhere near what A-list writers are able to achieve financially. One of my screenwriting students signed a $140M deal with Amazon a few years back.
So yes, people can and do make money as screenwriters.
But I would never recommend to any aspiring screenwriter to bank on that. Even if they were to sell one or two scripts, maybe landed an open writing assignment, probably smart to keep the “day job” until they see how things shake out.
Post Comment