Getting Started as a Film Writer
Producer Robin Cowie Offers Screenwriting Tips for the Movie Trade
Want to know how to overcome the obstacles new filmmakers face when trying to break into the business? Suite's Celebrity Writer Robin Cowie tells all...
Suite 101: With an ever fluid marketplace, what innovations and alternate avenues would you recommend an emerging artist explore?
Robin Cowie: New technology will always alter how people function and communicate. That said, it is important to stick with the essentials of basic storytelling. The best way to learn how to do this is to create. If you want to write, then write. If you want to direct, then direct. The tools for this are becoming cheaper and more accessible. My 10-year-old son can operate a Final Cut Pro system. The technology will always facilitate the craft, what's harder to learn is how and why people interact. Once you understand that, create.
Suite 101: What are some of the biggest obstacles you’ve encountered when trying to get films off of the ground?
Robin Cowie: Someone will always tell you that it can’t be done. You need to earn credibility to overcome that barrier. You need to find a logical way to get people to trust you and lay their doubts to rest. To do so, you need to prove yourself, earn that trust.
For example, in an internet endeavor, one might need to give away a product or service for free to attract skeptical consumers. Once those consumers see the source is reliable, and that the transaction was well executed, they will trust it.
This works with storytelling as well, you need people to believe in what you’re trying to do. When people are giving you money for a project you need to give them a solid reason to invest in you; essentially proving to them that you will earn them their money --and then some.
Suite 101: How do you tackle the writing process?
Robin Cowie: I like to keep the end result in mind, whether it be for screenwriting or writing an article. When writing for film, I would keep the climax in mind while progressing toward it. The process is similar when writing an article or scripting an online video— be aware of the intended end result and work backward from that thought.
For more from Robin Cowie about his own start in Hollywood and the life of a movie mogul, check out the other two parts of this interview, and learn about the fine art of pitching to producers and financing your own film. Robin Cowie is May's celebrity writer on Suite101.com, exclusive to the Film & TV section. Post your comments below to share your own tips on getting into the biz...
