Strange move considering US writers have decided to change to a no writing at all structure. A policy I think some people on here should seriously consider.
Only Joking - or not as the case may be (Oh god I've confused myself with so many double meanings)
In the Writers' Room guidelines it quite specifically states *not* to write a spec script. That's not what they want. Which is interesting if that is the way they want to go.
I'm assuming Two Pints and Grownups are more team-written nowadays too, if only cos that's where the 'new writing talent' seems to go work for as a first port of call.
Dan
For the record, I didn't mean to suggest that Writersroom do accept spec scripts, in case anyone took it that way.
Does anyone know anyone who has had any level of success through Writersroom?
Similar to another conference I went to, with a broadcaster. The guests told us that the industry was still open to newbies BUT when each was asked how they got into the industry, every story was one of tapping up contacts within. Not only that, each said they would reject an unsolicited approach from unknowns, which caused a ripple of ironic laughter. When the fact that they'd got their break through contacts was pointed out, they got very defensive, insisted it was purely talent rather than contacts and changed the subject.
>_<
Personally, I think commission = talent x perseverance + chance (or fate ... add your own favoured mechanism for the universal lottery). Without either, it won't happen. Contacts within the industry increase the effects of chance, making it more likely to happen. If a contact allows you to bypass one level or more, then that's less people to convince along the way.
If a good enough script lands on the right desk at the right time of day then it'll go up to the next level whether written by committee or one individual ... I hope. 
Quote: Griff @ January 18, 2008, 10:44 AMAgreed... the procedure is
1. Write loads.
2. Network like f**k.
3. Cross your fingers, touch wood, buy lucky horseshoe etc.
Only touch wood after you have a signed contract
Quote: ajp29 @ January 18, 2008, 12:22 PMOnly touch wood after you have a signed contract
I should imagine the touching of wood has led to many a reciprocal favour over the years!