Don’t be afraid to plant your flag early on. This advice comes from writer Chris Sparling, who is known for the 2010 film, Buried, starring Ryan Reynolds and the 2020 film Greenland, starring Gerard Butler.
In today’s episode, No Film School’s Jason Hellerman speaks with writer and director Chris Sparling to discuss:
- The first time Jason and Chris met, 10 years earlier
- How Chris starts the writing process
- Talking to reps to get an accurate idea of what scripts will be successful
- Why Chris writes specs and encourages other writers to do the same
- Breaking out of the box people put you in
- Recognizing it’s not necessary to go after every single assignment
- How to manage your expectations when going out with a new spec
- Writer’s block - Is it real and how to overcome it
- Why it’s important to rehearse your pitch
Memorable Quotes
- “If there’s a real fire in you, that’s the story you want to tell.” [6:10]
- “I’m constantly trying to pump out new material that shows another side to what I do.” [12:30]
- “You have to get out of your own way and power through it. [30:38]
- “Don’t be difficult, but also don’t undervalue yourself.” [42:52]
Resources
Buried
Greenland
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