Tuesday, March 30, 2010

NorCal Screenwriter’s Expo-A new door open to Northern California Screenwriters

The NCS Expo held its first annual event in Napa Valley last weekend at the beautiful Silverado Golf Resort and Spa. The 3 day event had celebrity speakers, great writing workshops, and a frenetic Pitch Fest on day three. One of the major highlights was Oscar winner, Bobby Moresco’s candid discussion on his experience making Crash and Million Dollar Baby. He shared with the audience his woes of making a film that was turned down by every studio. Obviously his tenacity overcame every obstacle and he took home the Oscar…twice. He was very humble and unassuming in sharing his experience. He stated, “This is not about me. This time is for you. Ask me anything you want.” When I met him in the hallway, he was very kind and encouraging. For more information on the interview conducted by James Dalessandro, please visit NorCal Screenwriter’s website.

Speaking of Mr. Dalessandro, his epic novel, 1906, is now a script in pre-production with Warner Brothers. He has years of pitching experience and has been serving the film and television industry for over 27 years. His seminar on pitching was inspiring and gave several writers a swift kick in the butt. “Writer’s are so long winded. Sum it up with who, what, when, where, and why?” He encourages writers to speak from the heart. His message was: Passion sells. Victoria Wisdom, another heavy hitter in LA, put more of a succinct note on it. “Who can pitch me in four words?” After the crowd moaned and groaned, she came back at them with, “James Bond with Amnesia.” It’s the Borne Identity. Brilliant.

Barbara Bitela was by far the most energetic speaker. Her words rang true with the others. “Speak to me in Haikus.” She was engaging and a true crowd favorite. She also shared some very candid advice that most people wouldn’t think to share. Her overall message to the crowd was: Always say yes to your agent. If they want a re-write, you say, “yes”. If they want to sell your script for $10,000, you say, “yes”. The more yeses you say the farther your career goes.

Pitching opportunities were plenty with such companies as Lionsgate, Warner Brothers, DreamWorks, Silver Bitela Agency, Lifetime, CAA, HBO, Lawrence Bender Productions, and more. Overall, the event provided opportunities that Northern California would not otherwise see. Only time will tell if Hollywood will return again for next year’s Expo, but the latest word is several screenwriters gained representation and had scripts taken for review.