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Your Hollywood Career File Drawer #5


Ref 169. Dear Linda -
How can I infiltrate the marketing dept. of a major studio? I have 12 years of pub/promo experinece
including (2) years as a pub/promo coordinaotr for a field agency for (5) major studios. I've interviewd with a studio, but the job went
to someone internally. The temp ropute has not worked. I've got the talent now how do I get in. Can uou please
e-mail me at beefy@cyberg8t.com

thanks

Rose Jones



Ref 170. Dear Linda;

Thought you might answer these questions sometime soon. Hope all is well with you, and that you are just very busy. Faithful reader in California.


Ref 171. Dear Linda,
I am a film major at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
I really want to transfer to UCLA so I can study more ho to make"Hollywood"
type films instead of Independent art films. But what my passion is is Special Effects.
I need to find out information on internships in LA, but I am having problems in Milwaukee.
I need your expertise and help. Please e-mail me at kamikazi@alpha1.csd.uwm.edu
Thanks sooooo much, I need all the holp I can get.
Ann Margaret Tapia -no I was not named after the actress



Ref 172. I wrote a few months ago but didn't manage to get back
in time to catch your advice. I apologise and will make sure I come
back for this one. I am 29, currently working as an editor/producer
for the entertainment section of an online service, went to Cannes
for the first time this year (very droll). My career highlights include
associate producer/programme editor of an arts programme (TV, a couple of
B-Grade (no-budget) entertainment magazine editorships (I did OK) - you can
imagine the rest. My strengths are strategic planning and creative
producing (in print, TV and multimedia). HELP!
I'm beating myself up endlessly for not being good enough, brave enough
etc. My current conflict revolves around choosing to
do what I want in an environment I will have to transform
in order to make it successful or ricocheting myself
around the open/closed doors of the media universe (producing
that doco I have a exec prod for/writing that screenplay I don't
have any ideas for/learning to recognise and foster talent other
than my own dubious one).
Basket case?


Ref 173. Hi Linda-
I am a 25 year old male that had great acting success at age 15-18 until my parents disallowed me from pursuing that line of work and forced me to become an engineer. I am fired up now to arrive where I should be- a screen actor; however, I am concerned about the lost time. From my past screen experience, I know that I still have what it takes, but how do I convey that to an agent when my resume is blank for the past few years. Also, I currently live in Atlanta, but will be moving to LA in 6 months. Should I pursue an agent locally or wait until I get to LA. Do you have any suggestions for agencies. Please email me at jmorgan@intermarket.com.


Ref 175. LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 173, J.MORGAN: As a career counselor for showbiz people, I have worked with many people whose careers were thrown off track by well-meaning parents who tried to "protect" their sons and daughters from pursuing entertainment industry careers. Actors, especially, seem to get this "loving" attention, which is as ineffective as the old-fashioned idea of trying to convince gay people they were straight! If you're a born performer, you're a born performer. That doesn't mean you HAVE to pursue acting as a career or, if you do pursue acting, that you are guaranteed success against the odds, but it does mean that you need to find some positive outlet for your natural performing talents. 25 is not too late, but you do have some catching up to do. I'm glad you're moving to LA, where there are more opportunities. By all means get an agent in Atlanta while you're there, because they may be affiliated with an LA agency which may take you on when you get here. Good luck!


Ref 179. LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 170: Sorry it's taken a while to post answers to the above! Yes, I''m doing great, just incredibly busy with my showbiz counseling clients at the Entertainment Industry Career Institute in Beverly Hills. I've also done a "live" online host stint for People magazine online, plus moderating a panel at the Association of Women in Entertainment at CBS Studios. Whew!

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 172, BASKET CASE?: I believe you can check out old Q&A in another part of the Hollywood Network. Anyone who beats themselves up and uses the words "programme" and "doco" must be a fellow Canuck or Brit or kiwi, no? :) Where are you currently located? My best advice: contact, join and get active in the International Documentary Association at 310/284-8422 and make that doco! Good luck!



Ref 180. Ms Buzzell, I have a BA in Communications with emphasis in TV/Film
and have been unable to get a job. I have read your book, I have
sent letters and resumes (300+), and have had 3 interviews in 1 1/2
years. I live in the LA area I have been looking for an entry level
position as camera operator, floor manager, anything. Any additional
hints or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Trevor


Ref 181. Dear Ms. Buzzell,

My name is Dylan Napoleon. I am an aspiring filmmaker in Houston, Texas. I am currently working at the University of Houston directing instructional television. It's not really an industry job but, it pays the bills. I am writing because a few months ago, I sent you a card thanking you for writing How to Make it in Hollywood. It provided me with the direction I needed right before graduating college. I was very happy when I saw a letter from your office in my box. However, it turned out to be a brochure and order form for your book. I was a little disheartenedbut realized that you are very busy and might not have received it. When I originally purchased your book, I chose it over a book on industry careers by Larry Saltzman. Imagine my surprise when I read your dedication.I finished it in 48 hours and was short of breath by the end. In the card, I asked if you would do me the honor of being the first person in my Power Rolodex; so I am asking you again. I am trying to hone my skills and exhaust all the resources I have here before making a move to L.A.. I am hoping we can correspond in the future, and I am looking forward to your next book.

Thank you

Dylan Napoleon
djohnson@bayou.uh.edu


Ref 182. RE: Ref. 146 & 178. Linda, a few days ago my agent called to say that one company got back good coverage on one of my scripts and apparently is pursuing plans for production. Also,
a studio has asked to see some of my material. So, things are moving forward again. I guess I just needed to be patient. Unfortunately, I'm not very good at it! Thanks for
your reply. Best, Wendy Jane Henson, 102627.3527@compuserve.com


Ref 184. Dear Ms. Buzzell,
I may have missed your response to my question the first time I wrote you so I am giving it another try. I hope this time I don't miss your response. I am a recent grduate with a B.A. in Mass-Media Broadcasting with an emphasis in television. I would like very much to work in the entertainment field, preferably as a video and film editor. I have two years's editing experience and would like the opportunity to further develop my skills. The reason I like the entertainment field is because of the creative aspect of it. My question is how does soemone living in Akron, OH with hardly any money to relocate, and little editing experience, make the necessary contacts to work in television. I was wondering if there was some sort of aprrenticeship program where I could work, as well as, train as an editor. I know that what I lack in experience I more than make up for in desire. If you have any advice to give me I would really appreciate it, and I promise not to miss your response.
Thank you,Adrienne Burgess -- E-mail:badrien@uakron.edu.


Ref 185. Linda:

RE: 146 and 178. I sent this message once before, but even though I'm using Netscape 2.0, and I did "Reload," I don't see my reply
on the screen. So I will try again. Thanks for your answer. As luck would have it, an established company
called my agent a few days ago to report good coverage they received on one of my scripts. Apparently, they
are planning to pursue a production on the package we sent them. Also, a studio has requested one of my
scripts, so I guess things are moving forward again. I just have to be patient. But I'm not very good at it.
Best wishes, Wendy Jane Henson, 102627.3527@compuserve.com


Ref 186. Dear Ms. Buzzell,

Just read through your most recent responses, I am Ref# 158, but I didn't see anything refering to my question. Hope to in the near future. By the way I live in Bakersfield Ca, and currently my mom drives me to LA for auditions and acting class. Hope to hear from you soon.
Ryan Joanna Shepherd


Ref 188. Dear Linda,
Thanks for responding. I was message 143. I live in Morristown, TN. It's
about an hour outside of Knoxville. I have performed in numerous school,
community, and even a few college plays. I also did a video for a local business
in my community. I also wanted to know how I can get a copy of your book. If you
have any advice at all please contact me at stansell@usit.net You are an blessing
that anyone can ask you questions and get your honest answers.
Thanks,
Jason Stansell


Ref 189. Dear Linda,
I just graduated with a degree in Broadcasting and Cinematic Arts that
specializes in TV promotion and production and I just moved to Los
Angeles...my question...how do I find a good entry-level position?
I'm not looking for anything huge...just an opening with a chance of
advancement.
James Renaud


Ref 190. I don't know if I'm in the right area to ask for some advise so here goes.. I have been the Law Enforcement and private Detective field for over 30 years. I have many real life stories and have appeared on 60 minutes and other national and international TV/Radio shows. In addition appeared in many news publications worldwide.

I am looking for a write to work with... Any ideas how to contact a writer that may be interested? Thanks for you help. MB


Ref 191. My E mail # is mbsource@icanect.net, thanks again


Linda Buzzell's Responses:

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 180, TREVOR: Wow! You've been working hard. Some additional suggestions: get some specialized training in digital production techniques (UCLA Extension has some neat classes) that put you ahead of the pack. Also join an industry organization (see the reference section of my book for ideas) and get active, networking as much as you can. Lastly: ask for "information interviews" and advice -- that may help you get more interviews. Good luck!

LINDA BUZZELLS REPLY TO REF 181, DYLAN NAPOLEON: Thanks for your card -- I get a lot of mail from people from around the country and the globe, so I apologize for not being able to answer all letters personally. I'd be delighted to be in your Power Rolodex and if you have any questions, I'll try to answer them online. But I hope you will understand that sometimes I am so busy that I can't answer all my calls or mail. Good luck with your entertainment industry career!

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 182, WENDY JANE HENSON: That's great news! Keep me posted...

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 165 & 183, ADRIENNE BURGESS: Contact the local TV stations in Akron to meet TV editors and the local university film departments regarding training as an editor. And save your pennies so you can take at least one good course on non-linear editing, which is all-important. Good luck!

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 186 AND REF 158, RYAN JOANNA SHEPHERD: Sorry my answer didn't get through. Check out the chapter on managers in my book "How to Make It in Hollywood," and also ask your mom to contact the Hollywood Screen Parents Association at 818/955-6510 for further advice on how to get a manager. Good luck!

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 187, JASON STANSELL: To order a copy of my book, call me at the Entertainment Industry Career Institute at (310) 553-9660 and request a brochure and order form. You can also get the book from any big national book chain. Ask for the 2nd edition of "How to Make It in Hollywood," which came out in March 1996 from publisher HarperCollins. If they don't have it on hand, they can order it for you. And thanks for your kind words. Good luck!

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 189, JAMES RENAUD: Believe it or not, it's not too hard to get an entry level position in show business. See the chapter of my book on entry level jobs. The pay will probably suck, but it's a foot in the door! Then it's up to you to show your stuff and make the right moves. Good luck!

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 190, MB: To hire a film or TV writer, you might want to place a small ad in Daily Variety or the Hollywood Reporter. You'll be inundated with sample scripts! In fact, just from posting this question, you may have gotten a few replies...



Ref 192. Dear Linda,

I've pretty much made the decision that I'll do anything to be in the entertainment field because that's where my interest lies. I'm currently working on scripts - two feature films and two television scripts. I want to move out to LA next spring, not only because I want to get into the movies or TV, but because I can't stand East Coast weather any more, and I have no real reason not to make a move. My question is, am I being completely stupid? Should I try the half-assed "stay where you are and submit a script" method, or, by moving out west, do I have better networking chances, at least?
I'd appreciate any help you can give me.

-blessman@msn.com



Ref 193. Dear Linda,
I moved out to L.A. 2 yrs ago from Tokyo. I worked for 5yrs+ in TV/radio there and at one point, I had 5 shows. Since I've moved here, I can't find any representation. My demo tapes are all half English, half Japanese alternating every other sentence since that's what's considered "cool" in Japan. What can I do to convince them that I am worthy? Strangers come up to me to tell or ask me if I'm an actress/model so what is wrong?I would appreciate receiving your advice.

hana e-mail: hana@sqla.com


BR> Ref 195. LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 192, BLESSMAN: I like your attitude! If you real mean it that you'll do anything to work in entertainment, by all means move to L.A. and get in on the action. Do the exercises in my book that help you pinpoint the exact goal you're aiming for, and get a job working for someone who does what you'd love to do. If you're not sure, put in some time as an agent's assistant, where you'll get an overview of the whole business. Good luck!

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 193, HANA: Why not join a networking organization like Cinewomen (310) 855-8720 and focus on meeting as many people as possible who might be able to help you break through the barriers you are facing? Also, check out the chapter on "What If I'm Different?" in my book. Do you have a good acting teacher in L.A.? She or he may be able to advise you about things you can do to convince an agent or producer to take you on. Good luck!



Ref 196. 172: Reply to reply: I'm based in Western Europe & travel to London weekly
where I house-sit for Lady Macbeth. And yes I am an antipodean - since I
posted you I've got clearer on my interest in the convergence of media
and fun and the doco. Work with a lot of Eurotrash and a Canuck. calling
my EP tonight - Thanks for the advice.


Ref 197. Dear Linda,

Thanks for the reply. I was very excited when I saw your response. I am currently writing a screenplay that I hope to produce on video then transfer to film. Do you know of any references that might help me along the way? Also, do you still teach at AFI? I went to college with a student there by the name of Nick Papadakis. If you happen to run into him, tell him I said hello. Thanks again.
Dylan
djohnso3@bayou.uh.edu


Ref 198. Dear Ms. Buzzell
Thanks for your advice. It's been really helpful.
Hope to see you in Hollywood one day.
Adrienne Burgess
badrien@uakron.edu


Ref 199. Linda... I have an idea for a sit-com and would like to know what should be
included in the package that I will be sending to an agent. Do I submit
an outline, treatment and/or the final script? Do you know where I
can find examples to assist with the creation of these documents or
can you recommend any good books? Thanks.



Ref 200. I worked as an assistant/trainee at a major talent agency a few
years back. I now happily work in another career outside of
entertainment. For anyone who wants to get a real flavor of how
it is to work in an entry level job in this business and the
mentality of many of the big wigs in this business I suggest renting
the movie "Swimming with the Sharks" with Kevin Spacy.
The behavior of the film executive in this movie seems quite
extreme and exagerated, but believe me, its the way it is.


Ref 201. RE: Ref. 178
Linda:
Things seem to be moving again. Inch by inch. (Glaciers move faster.) My big problem is that I write good
scripts...strong stories, well structured and very character driven...but they are not commercial. My agent
and I keep hearing that people love my work, but they are reluctant to put up money to do it. We now have
60% matching funds available, but the other 40% keeps falling through. So we wait.
Anyhow, thanks for your reponse. Wendy, 102627.3527@compuserve.com



Ref 202. Linda, I plan to contact you directly when I arrive in L.A. in July, until then I would like to get a jumpstart on the process before I get there. As I wrote you previously I have extensive experience performing in many mediums, however I have also directed and worked as an assistant agent and really love the casting process. I have had 3 small production companuies and two small theater companies. How can I intern or assistant for a casting director, agent or someone like yourself(I find your counseling to be fascinating and I am sure very rewarding)?. I have made a connection with an L.A. casting director so we will meet in July or August. I have gotten an entre to an agent for my performing purposes and a director interested in producing a play for me but what about the possibility of experiencing an agents office again? I was in a very small market when I assisted before, I know L.A. is s much different animal. Again your sage advise would be most appreciated. You may also contact me at weale@cycor.ca. Many thanks, KAZ


Ref 203. Dear Linda,
WOW! I can't believe I have found you here! I read your book about four years ago when I just got into the biz and I reccomended it to everyone!!! It was really helpful to me since I didn't know anything but how to act! Right now I've completed two years of study in NYC with Bill Esper and am planning to move to Los Angeles. I know I need to get my mailings out, but should I wait until a week before I go out? I don't think I should send my pics. too early since they may get lost. Also, I am actually co-producing a direct to video film that I wrote and managed to get interest in! It's all who you know!!! My goal is to be able to play the lead so I have a great piece of film on myself! Well, I just wanted to let you know how much you've inspired me! Thanks alot! LUI


Ref 204. Dear Linda,
I am 14 years old and want to persue my acting career now. But i live in wisconsin and all the local shows are really corny. I wass considering sending an agency a video tape of myself but i don't know what to put on it, or where to send it. I someone from an agency in hollywood is reading this please e-mail me I have great potential. linda please e-mail me too. my e-mail name is allap520 and the address is @wi.net


June 21, 1996 - Ref 205. Dear Linda,
Just out of curiousity, what is the typical yearly income (salary +
bonus) of a vp of production, senior vp of prod, and president of
production at one of the big film studios. Also, what is the average
fee a producer makes on a film. Ive seen many articles on executive
salaries in other industries but never in the film industry.
Mark


Ref 206. Hi Linda, I live in the San Francisco area (50 mins from LA)
and my plan is to: write, write, and write, continue
to go to conferences to learn the craft of screenwriting and
to find an agent, get a writing assignment, then move to LA
for two years, develop a career, move back to the SF area
(home of Coppola, Ezterhaus, Columbus, Lucas...) maybe, and
live happily ever after. Am I nuts or is this realistic? Why?
Thanks for the wonderful opportunity to talk to you! --Clyde


Ref 207. I am a SAG member yet I do not know how I may use the guild to my advantage. As an undergraduate student, I am pursuing a dual degree in computer science and economics, however I am extremely interested in pursuing a career in filmmaking or the business ascpects of producing/financing a film. How would I go about getting into the film industry? And what should my future plans include in planning my career? Currently I am working on a screenplay just so that I may have some experience with that perspective. What else should I do?
I would appreciate any advice you may have. Please email me at (edmond@csa.bu.edu) if you would like to speak to me personally. Again thanks!


Ref 209. Dear Linda,
I'm 23 and I have written four successful plays. And some bad ones. Made the switch to screenwritng last year. Wrote two scripts. So so effort. Read a lot of scripts. Wrote a third and everyone I send it to has gone nutz over it including a producer who says he's interested in realifying it. I'm going NUTZ waiting for him to get his act together. Do you know anyone looking for a good comic-crime story that has real thematic resonation. If so, email me at Jacob72@aol.com. Thanks!


Ref 210. Dear Linda,

Just writing to say that I bought the second edition of of your book over the weekend. I haven't had a chance to read it yet, but I am going to start when I get home from work today. I can't wait to see what new direction you will lead me.

Dylan Napoleon

djohnso3@bayou.uh.edu


Ref 211. RE: 182

Linda:

Good coverage has come back on another script, and I've been invited to write a treatment for an MOW. As you can imagine,
I feel a LOT better. Wendy Jane Henson, 102627.3527@compuserve.com


Ref 213. Hi, Linda!
My name's Jeff, and (Heavens to Betsy!) I'm an actor. I'm going to be in L.A. on 7/01 auditioning for the Taper, and I'm trying to set up meetings with more C/D's and such. I sure would like to hear your suggestions for some chutzpah tactics to get into some offices... Anything you can tell me will be very much appreciated. (I have your book, by the way)
Thanks! Jeff Galyan Agent's #:818/759-8061


Ref 214. Linda:

What tips can you offer to screenwriters who write well but don't write "commercial?"
I think this is a subject beginners need to understand. Wendy J. Henson, 102627.3527@
compuserve.com


Ref 215. I was perusing books on the biz at a local bookstore and I saw yours.
Being a studio teacher welfare worker, I looked in the index as to what
might be found. I heartily suggest you do more research and also
call the local 884 business manager for some accurate info on what we
do and our qualifications, etc. etc. etc. thank you kindly. mmb


Ref 216. Dear Linda,

I am trying to get a demo tape together to submit to an agent for
commercial voiceover work. I do have access to a professional studio;
my big problem is that I'm not a copywriter. I want to have about
three or four 30 sec. spots. What is the best way to go about
writing a "PROPER" commerical....Signed, FRUSTRATED IN TORONTO CANADA


Ref 217. Dear Ms. Buzzell, I would like your advice on how I might capitalize on a certain publicity stunt which I engineered and involved a major production company. Let's talk in private. I'm at robsmith@passport.ca. I look forwad to hearing from you. Thank you for your time and interest. Robert.


Ref 218. Dear Linda,
I'm about to begin my final year studying Literature and Film at the University of Colorado at Boulder but I have been on exchange in Australia near Sydney for the past year. I am extremely interested in 'getting into the industry' in Australia, the U.S. or England, where my family presently lives. How important is it to attend film school before attempting any carreer moves? Which ones would you suggest? I'm wary about getting further into debt but I want as much ammo behind me as possible before 'charging the lions'! Any pointers? Thanks for any help you can give me! Hollis. hns01@uow.edu.au


Ref 219. To Ref 218

You should read Lindas' book before making any big decisions. I don't want to sound crass but, it doesn't seem as if you don't have a real clue as to what you want to do. These days, it is not as important to go to film school. With technology the way it is, you could take the money you wiuld spend on film school and just make a film. Do a short, it doesn't have to be feature length. Do it on Hi-8 then transfer it to film. I'm sure that you have friends that want to be in the industry. Get with them and just do it. There is no excuse. E-mail me if you need any moral support.

Dylan Napoleon
djohnso3@bayou.uh.edu


Ref 220. LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 197, DYLAN: Re: producing your own screenplay, you might want to contact the Hollywood Film Institute at (800) 366-3456 or http://www.HollywoodU.com/HFI. They have a crash "2-day Film School" to teach you all the nuts and bolts of doing your own film, from development through distribution. The courses are also available on audio tape. I don't teach at AFI any longer, by the way. In July I'm teaching a class at the Learning Annex in LA and in the fall at the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (the "Emmy" folks).

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 199, SITCOM WRITER: I like to recommend Carl Sautter's book "How to Sell Your Screenplay: The Real Rules of Film and Television," (New Chapter Press). Also see the writer's resources on page 363 of the 2nd edition of my book "How to Make It in Hollywood." (HarperCollins). You may want to join one of the national screenwriter's groups so you can get the best advice and possibly sample scripts. Also check out some of the other "faculty" here on the Hollywood Screenwriters Network. Doni Nelson and Linda Seger are very highly regarded. In general, it's very tough to sell a situation comedy idea to a network unless you already have some substantial credits writing scripts for sitcoms that are already on TV, so most writers start out writing spec scripts for current hot shows and go from there. Good luck!

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 200, FORMER AGENT TRAINEE: Thanks for recommending "Swimming with the Sharks" -- you're right that this film shows how it really is! That's why I put a chapter in my book on dealing with the animals in the Hollywood Zoo...

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 201, WENDY: You're getting close -- don't give up! REF 211: Congratulations! 214: Re: advice to screenwriters who write well but don't write "commercial" -- what's "commercial?" "Forrest Gump" wasn't commercial. Wendy Finerman pitched it all over town for 9 years before it was made and then, suddenly, it was a blockbuster! Write what's in your soul; write it as entertainingly as you can, so you''re not just talking to yourself, and get that out there. Maybe it will be an acquired taste -- so be it. Keep pitching until we acquire it. Also, writing novels, mag articles etc. helps too. Sometimes we buy "different" material more easily from those media. Keep me posted, Wendy!

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 202, KAZ: I look forward to doing a career counseling session with you when you get to LA in July! It sounds as though you need a little help focusing your efforts. See you soon!

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 203, LUI: Thanks for recommending my book to your friends! I really appreciate it. It's great that you're moving to LA. A couple of tips on preparing for the move. Get referrals from EVERYONE you know in NYC -- to friends and relatives in the biz, especially acting teachers, casting directors, agents, producers, directors etc. Also launch a mail campaign well before you come, telling them what week you'll be in town and try to set appointments, lunches etc. It's nice to know that my book has been helpful to you -- check out the new edition too! And good luck.

LINDA BUZZELLS REPLY TO REF 204, ALLAP520: Ask your parents to contact the Hollywood Screen Parents Association at 818/955-6510 for further info on how a young actor can safely pursue a career. Also read "Glam Scam," by Eric Joseph, published by Lone Eagle Press in 1994. It covers the most common scams that young actors and others run into. This book could save you a lot of heartache and money -- and maybe even your life! Hollywood is a snake pit for young actors, so don't just come out by yourself or even send tapes without some help. A so-called producer or agent could be not legitimate. Unfortunately young actresses (and actors) get hustled all the time. Your best bet really is to start where you are, even in "corny" school plays, community theatre or local TV, and get to know the top acting people, teachers etc. in Wisconsin. Learn the basic craft of performing. If they think you're really talented and ready for Hollywood, they'll be able to refer you to legitimate people in LA when you're ready. And write me back if you have more questions! Good luck.



Ref 221. LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 205, MARK: A VP, senior VP or president of production (which includes development) at a studio could make anywhere from $75,000 to well over $1 million, depending on her or her status and relationships in the community. A producer's fee is equally flexible -- it depends on your clout and deal-making ability! But studio and independent producer gigs are hard to get -- an agency background is a good plus, Ivy League degrees are smiled upon, or you can work for a player and impress everyone enough that theyll promote you. See the chapter on "Entry Level Jobs" in my book "How to Make It in Hollywood" (HarperCollins).

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 206, CLYDE: See the section of my book "How to Make It in Hollywood" on "Do I Have To Move to LA?" There are pros and cons. Writers have the easiest time being "bi-city" but there's no getting around the fact that a lot of action happens in LA that your competitors are going to get in on -- meetings, parties, drop-bys etc. that result in writing work. Hard choice.

LINDA BUZZELL'S REPLY TO REF 207, SAG MEMBER: Why not volunteer to work on a committee or event and get to know some of your fellow SAG members? Also take the time to do the self-evaluation exercises in my book "How to Make It in Hollywood" so you can focus your efforts. Will you pursue acting, producing or writing -- or some combination of the three? Don't forget that in each area you're competing against highly motivated, driven people who only want to do that one thing, so if you decide to pursue all three, forget about sleeping at night! Good luck.







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