Hi, I've written a Western screenplay `Blood runs Deep' based on something that happened in frontier USA in 1840.

`Blood' did well in Script Savvy's Nov 2009 comp but now I don't know what to do with it. Any suggestions? ie agents, producers, etc who might be interested or looking for a dramatic western?

thanks so much,

What did it score in Savvy (if you don't mind me asking). If you win savvy or get an honourable mention then you'd more than likely get read requests for it (juging by what people on here have said).

Westerns are a difficult sell though. Think about how few have been made in in the last twenty years. They're a good showcase for your writing though.

I'd use a consultant and coverage company and get it up to a recommend. Then you could send it out to contests/ go down the e-query route, etc.

Stephen Hoover (who posts on here) has done well with his Western (well worth a read if you get the chance, can be found on the circalit website), so they can win or place highly in contests. He'd be able to tell you how much interest he's had in it.

Calling Stephen Hoover, please.

Hi Stephen, If you've got a minute, I'd love to speak, write to you. I've written a Western 'Blood Runs Deep' (based on true events which happened in frontier USA circa 1840.) Anyway, it did well in Script Savvy and I've learned that you wrote a great Western script and I'd like to pick your brain if possible, discuss your experiences etc. I'd also love to read your work as well.

Please get in touch, thanks,

Nick

Here's the Hollywood advice on westerns: Dont write one.

They are hard to sell, especially these days without it being something like cowboys and aliens. Even the basic bounty hunter story of Jonah Hex had some bs supernatural stuff to spin it high concept.

As one reader said, "Itll likely do well in contests.". Gee thanks!

Period pieces are a tough sell in general. Drama is hard to sell.

What they do buy from newbies: Horror and comedy. Cheap to shoot. And it works on the page or not.

Best of luck to you sir.

Hi Stephen, thanks for writing back. I know `Westerns' are a hard sell but I had to write the script because the story had to be told. When I first learned of some of the events which took place, the story just jumped out and well, I had to put it down.

since you've been down this avenue before, I'd like to know who you approached etc.

Anyway, I'd be happy to send you a copy of the script if you're interested and can afford the time to read it. Any suggestions are always welcomed. And please don't call me, sir.

thanks, Nick

"And please don't call me, sir."

That errant comma could set the table for a bloody encounter. Takes me back to fair Verona: "I do bite my thumb, sir." :-)