The Savvy Screenwriter demystifies the film industry and reveals what aspiring screenwriters really want and need to know. From finding and working with agents, to insights about story analysts and movie executives, to understanding option agreements, to providing samples for queries, synopses, treatments, loglines, and outlines, to pitching, Susan Kouguell knows what works and what doesn't, and gives practical advice on getting your screenplay sold.

From the writers, editors and compilers of the highly successful The Writer's Handbook comes the first edition of The Screenwriter's Handbook, an indispensible companion for everyone who commissions screenwriters, works with them or writes (or wants their chance to write) for the screen. Containing thousands of entries covering every aspect of scriptwriting, with provocative articles and useful advice from leading representatives of the trade, this practical, straightforward guide, with indexes to aid quick searches, provides full details on the core markets and the way the television and film industries are going. In addition to the key areas of UK and US film and TV agents and production companies, writers' courses and circles, festivals, grants and prizes, the guide also offers invaluable expert advice on contracts, copyright, and taxation.

In Hollywood, it's not just what you know, it's "who you know that counts! With "Writer's Guide to Hollywood Producers, Directors, and Screenwriter's Agents you have the friend you need to succeed in this very competitive industry. In this insider's guide, Hollywood screenwriter Skip Press tells you who's who, what they're looking for, and, most important, how to reach them--by mail, phone, fax, even e-mail. Also included: - Essential information on submission protocols and preferences for hundreds of agencies and production companies - Extensive interviews with key people - How Hollywood works: An A-Z tour - Books, CD-ROMs, and other back doors to Hollywood - And much, much more! "Skip Press has written a book that combines fearless opinions and invaluable hard facts, both of which are hard to find in Hollywood. This book is thoughtfully written, clearly laid out, and of great value to beginners and old-timers alike." --Gareth Wigan, co-vice chairman, Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group "An invaluable resource for breaking into the movie and television business." --Barbara Anne Hiser, Emmy-winning cable and network television producer "[This book is] not only entertaining but a valuable tool for anyone interested in show business." --Paul Mason, Sr., vice president of Production, Viacom "The bonus for any reader of this book is that Skip Press is just a good writer--accessible, clear, persuasive, motivating, and easy-to-understand." --Jerry B. Jenkins, author of the "Left Behind series and "'Twas the Night Before "An insightful guide to the intricate Hollywood network." --Oliver Eberle, founder and CEO, ShowBIZ Data.com Aboutthe Author Skip Press, a novelist, screenwriter, and producer, is the author of "How to Write What You Want and Sell What You Write and dozens of other titles, as well as hundreds of entertainment articles and short stories. He lives in the Los Angeles area.

Now You Have a Friend in the Industry! So you want to get into show business? In Hollywood, it's not what you know, but who you know that counts. Whether your dream is to become a Hollywood writer or find the perfect producer to buy your script, at your fingertips are the insider hints and secrets you need to get discovered and succeed in this ultracompetitive industry. Hollywood guru and screenwriter Skip Press introduces you to hundreds of producers, directors, and agents and tells you how to reach them--by mail, phone, fax, or e-mail. You'll learn how to: -Market screenplays, novels, or short stories to the right people -Tailor your proposal to the preferences of each producer, director, or agent -Understand the real Hollywood and everything show business -Find the best agent or manager "Thoughtfully written, clearly laid out, and of great value to beginners and old-timers alike. This book combines fearless opinions and invaluable hard facts--both of which are hard to find in Hollywood." --Gareth Wigan, co-vice chairman, Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group "An entertaining and valuable tool for anyone interested in show business." --Paul Mason Sr., vice president of production, Viacom "An invaluable resource for breaking into the movie and television business." --Barbara Anne Hiser, Emmy-winning cable and network television producer "An insightful guide to the intricate Hollywood network." --Oliver Eberle, founder and CEO, ShowBIZData.com "The bonus for readers of this book is that Skip Press is a good writer--accessible, clear, persuasive, motivating, and easy to understand." --Jerry B. Jenkins, coauthor, the Left Behind series

A truly comprehensive overview of the craft of writing for contemporary film and video, by a multi-award winning screenwriter.

On screenwriting

Savvy—n. Practical know-how. Maya, the premier high-end 3D application, is so powerful that no one masters it without help. Maya 5 Savvy—a thorough update to Maya 4.5 Savvy—is written for the Maya user looking to boost their skills to the next level. Running throughout this book is a completely new, cohesive, expertly organized animation project that teaches specific Maya skills and, at the same time, gives you valuable hands-on exposure to the entire animation production process. Staged support files mean that you can begin and end work on this project anywhere you like—which in turn means you can read this book cover to cover or use it as a reference, dipping in wherever you need information on or practice with specific modeling, animation, and rendering techniques. Everywhere you turn,you'll find expert advice on the latest Maya features, time-saving shortcuts, and advanced capabilities. Coverage includes: Core Maya: interface briefing, plus planning, writing, and storyboarding your animation. Modeling: NURBS, polygons and subdivision surfaces, character modeling. Animation: paths and bones, deformers, binding, Trax, rigid body dynamics, MEL scripting, particle animation, expression-driven animation. Output: rendering architecture, rendering, shading and texturing, lighting, special light effects. Advanced Tools and Techniques: Paint Effects, ramps and volumes, soft body dynamics, Fluid Effects, Fur, Cloth. Note:CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of eBook file.

Summary: "A definitive study of the 85 films produced during this era and presents a general overview. For each film, complete cast lists, credits, storyline, behind-the-scenes information, production history, commentary from the cast and crew, and in-depth critical analysis. Generously illustrated"--Provided by publisher.