British Comedy Guide

Ok, what is the most likely way of success?

The last script I e-mailed to a prod co. was back in late March. I sent it to a few producers too. I received the best feedback so far on any script I'd ever written, although nobody wanted to take it any further.

Although I was left with positive feelings after the feedback, I still have avoided sending scripts to prod co's, simply because I just can't see anything happening for me, that way.

What do you think are the most likely avenues of success? Sending scripts to prod co's, to producers, shooting your own stuff etc. I don't ask because I want you to help me out, I'm just interested in what you think are the best ways.

Monkeys Paw.

Quote: Jacob Loves Comedy @ June 15 2009, 10:45 AM BST

What do you think are the most likely avenues of success? Sending scripts to prod co's, to producers, shooting your own stuff etc.

All of the above. I use a sort of blunderbus technique, firing my stuff out and scattering it over as wide a field as possible. Shooting your own stuff and getting it online is a very good way of getting yourself noticed - as long as it's good. A lot of people make the mistake of filming their stuff using sub-par actors etc, and it ends up detracting from the quality of the scripts. But if you thinkn you can pull it off, definitely go for it.

Other than that, apart from a bit of talent the most important weapon in your arsenal is tenacity. Most people give up after a few goes. It almost always takes more than a few goes. So it's a simple equation really...a bit of talent + a lot of persistence = success.

Or that's the theory. ;)

Sitcom Trials or Every1sacritic.

Early to bed. Early to rise.

Quote: Marc P @ June 15 2009, 11:59 AM BST

Early to bed. Early to rise.

Ernie to bed, Eric to rise, makes a man healthy and Morecambe and Wise.

:S

Lots of fish in one's diet.

Quote: Jacob Loves Comedy @ June 15 2009, 10:45 AM BST

What do you think are the most likely avenues of success?

Warwick Avenue. It worked for Duffy.

Being good.

Quote: Marc P @ June 15 2009, 11:59 AM BST

Early to bed. Early to rise.

Very important. Plus the blunderbuss technique, as long as the ammo is decent. Also grammar/spelling.

It very much depends what you define as success. Do you want to be a good comedy writer with an original voice, or do you see comedy writing as something to put on your c.v. and to make you feel successful?

Also, how much do you like fish?

David Bussell is turning into Captain Birdseye.

Quote: David Bussell @ June 15 2009, 1:47 PM BST

Also, how much do you like fish?

It very much depends what you define as fish.

Quote: David Bussell @ June 15 2009, 1:47 PM BST

Also, how much do you like fish?

I know a penchant for fish has always been considered a pre-requisite for comedy writing success, but I think the culture has changed. Producers thesedays don't care too much how much fish you eat, so I think that's a bit of a red herring.

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