A well-crafted query letter is essential for gaining access to an executive’s office. You have invested significant time and effort into writing your screenplay, but all that work can be undermined by sending out unprofessional query letters. It is crucial to regard the query letter as equally important as the script itself.
As a reader for an independent producer, I have reviewed approximately 200 email submissions, and I can confidently say that only about 25 of those submissions were professionally written. The most common issue was that the writers failed to adhere to the instructions outlined in the script request.
The query letter must capture the attention of the reader. It should be polished, professional, and convey passion for the project. Decision-makers review countless queries daily, and a lackluster letter will be discarded in a LA minute.
A query letter should be a concise, one-page letter that includes a one-sentence logline, a single-paragraph synopsis of your script, a paragraph detailing your background, and a final paragraph inviting the recipient to read your script. Make every word count! Writing a generic letter significantly increases the risk of a swift rejection. While it may not be a guarantee, why take that chance? Sending an email with the heading: To Whom it may concern, is a near guarantee of instant rejection because this demonstrates that the writer has not taken the time to research the appropriate recipient for their query.
Your email starts with the subject line –
Subject line — this needs to be something snappy that draws a person’s attention AND lets them know it’s a project they may be interested in.
My suggestion is to mention in the subject line the genre and/or the most hooky thing about it, and make it clear it’s a script you’re pitching. And if it’s placed in a big contest, mention that too. Here is a sample subject line.
For instance… Check out this crime thriller where a detective uncovers a prostitution ring run by cops! The genre is crime thriller and the hook is a prostitution ring run by cops.
Loglines
A logline is a one-sentence written pitch and it must succinctly and accurately describe what the core of your story is about, using your story arc as your guide.
Ask yourself: “What is my script about?” and then answer the question.
Loglines need to be written in the present tense. Follow your protagonist’s journey, and his or her major goal and conflict/obstacle. Define who your protagonist is by including his or her profession. Describe your characters using
strong adjectives.
Do not use characters’ names unless your script centers on a historical figure. Do not write a run-on sentence. Phrases such as “It’s a story about” or “We follow the journey of ” are too wordy and unnecessary.
If you feel you can’t write a professional kick-ass query letter The Script Network will write your query letter: $45.00 query letter & logline.
Before submitting your script, ensure it is polished and ready for industry professionals.
Consider getting a professional coverage report to gain insight into the current standing of your screenplay
