Video: Interview with Dev Exec & Consultant, Danny Manus - What Executives Are Actually Thinking
I hosted an interview for the ISA where Danny Manus and I talked about the fallacies of the biz, and how writers can approach developing their careers in this ever-changing industry.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE INTERVIEW RECORDING
What Executives Are Actually Thinking (And What Most Writers Get Wrong)
I recently sat down with Danny Manus of No Bullscript Consulting for a candid conversation about so many things, but mainly the real disconnect between how writers think and how executives think. Danny brings over two decades of industry experience, including years as a development exec, and we didn’t hold much back. Between the two of us we have almost 50 years of industry experience.
We talked about how the industry has shifted so much even just in the past decade (or less). What used to be a “50% rule” (get the script halfway there and we’ll help you with the rest) has become a “95% rule,” where writers are expected to arrive nearly fully packaged. We dug into why that happened, what it means for writers trying to break in today, and why that reality, while tough, isn’t necessarily a reason to despair.
A big chunk of our conversation centered on the disconnects we see so often while working with writers one-on-one: not knowing the purpose of your script before you write it, confusing a situation with a story, polishing when you actually need to rewrite, and putting all your eggs in one basket… whether that’s one script, one contest, or one dream executive. We also got into what makes a character cast-able versus just likable, and why networking with other writers, while fun, isn’t the same as networking with people who can actually move your career forward.
There’s a lot in this one, and I think it’ll hit home whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been at this for years. Watch the full recording below, hosted on the ISA’s YouTube channel, and if anything resonates, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Enjoy the interview! In the meantime…some reminders…
Working with Max and The Story Farm
You can work with me! I still have slots available for Pro Development long-term coaching, and my smaller call packages. If you want specific, 1-on-1 development support on one or more scripts, I take pride in my 20+ years of getting the most out of every writer and their projects. Let’s work together!
My Summer Pro Lab and workshop starting on June 6 has TWO spots remaining! This is a 12-week, intensive workshop and Lab that develops your script step-by-step, and it includes 4 separate evaluations of your script after the 12 weeks. This is a long term dedication to you and your craft, so jump in while spots are still open.
And my writing retreat in September has two spots remaining, too! A 5-Day writing retreat in southeastern Wisconsin could be exactly what you need to get away, finish a script, and develop your craft while making new friends.
We as writers need to be continually educating ourselves, practicing our craft, and putting in the work. My programs and offers have helped thousands of writers not only improve their writing ability, but find representation, get their work seen, and even produced. Hit me up by emailing me: max@thestoryfarm.org and I would happy to have a one-on-one call to answer any questions about how we can work together.
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-Max Timm
The Story Farm
I found the interview to be discouraging, and a bit patronizing. Writers need to do 95% of the promotion work now. We love to polish our screenplays, but refuse to do the hard work of actual re-writing. We love to network with each other, but refuse to do the hard work of networking with those who can advance our careers. And, personal fav - quarterfinalist placements are worthless: executives don't care.
Pardon me, but I find quarterfinalist placements to be encouraging. They tell me I am doing SOMEthing right. I'm afraid Mr. Manus's wisdom is far above my pay grade.