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How to Sell Hollywood The TV/Film Rights For Your Book

Hollywood may seem like an endless fount of new ideas, but many blockbuster films are actually based on books. Buying the rights for published books gives television and film publishers the security of knowing the work has already been vetted by professionals. However, some producers also take on unpublished books if they're intrigued by the writer's ideas. Whether you're a published or unpublished author, selling Hollywood the television or film rights for your book is a matter of perseverance and self-promotion.

Things You'll Need

  • Internet Access
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Instructions

    • 1

      Promote your book via book signings, book talks and other personal appearances to create interest among readers. Television and film producers look for books that are best-sellers or have the potential to sell well. If your book is not yet published, promote yourself via social networking and professional organizations.

    • 2

      Write a screenplay based on the book or create a pitch packet including a detailed synopsis of what a screenplay based on the book might contain. Allow producers to visualize your book as a film by making it as close to a film as possible.

    • 3

      Research producers and production companies to find out which ones accept unsolicited material. Only submit to producers actively seeking new material.

    • 4

      Submit your screenplay or pitch packet to producers and production companies according to their submission guidelines. Many production companies make their submission guidelines available online.

    • 5

      Acquire an agent or manager that handles television and film rights. Some production companies prefer material that is submitted via an agent or manager. Submit your screenplay or pitch to agents and managers following their guidelines.

    • 6

      Negotiate the terms of any offer to buy your work before you sell it. Read all contracts for information on time limits and purchase price.

Screen Writing

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