June '08

OUR LAST CONTEST WINNER, JACQUELINE STAHL WINS A REP AND PLENTY OF READS IN RECORD TIME.

“The Hollywoodscript.com contest is helping new writers like me make remarkable inroads into the movie industry.  In just one week after Craig announced my win, I not only received NINE requests for my script, but I also gained representation!    Such impressive results.  And they came so quickly.  And I’m already getting read by producers in Hollywood. Hollywoodscript.com has certainly made an impression on me.  I am infinitely thankful to Craig for pushing me to develop my writing skills and then, with the contest, giving my work a vote of confidence. Craig Kellem sets the standard breathtakingly high, and then gives you the information and encouragement you need to reach that standard.  He has a wonderful ear for comedy, but he also has an impressive feel for a character’s state of mind and for the emotional flow of a script.  His feedback on these nuances helped me improve my script tremendously.  Furthermore, his attention to detail and willingness to give generously of his time suggests a genuine love for his work.  Craig Kellem, and Hollywoodscript.com, is making a great contribution to the art of screenwriting.” JACQUELINE STAHL 6/08

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JACK VANDAGRIFF STRIKES AGAIN -- THIS CONTEST WINNER GETS OPTIONED!! (We consulted and then INKTIP exposure made it happen!)

Illuminary Pictures options “Angel Hair” by
Jack Vandagriff.   Masiel Lusha, founder and
president of Illuminary Pictures, has optioned
“Angel Hair” from InkTip scribe Jack Vandagriff.
Lusha, who played the beautiful-but-feisty
daughter on The George Lopez Show, is building
a slate of projects to develop and package through
her various industry sources and contacts. Special
effects wiz Patrick Tatopolous (Director of
“Underworld: Rise of the Lycans”) is attached to
direct.  Vandagriff is a former studio publicist who has also won or placed highly in a number of
screenwriting contests.  This is his second option.

 

KIND WORDS FROM JACK-
“Craig, once again I thank you for giving sage advice on what you always referred to as a "worthy project", through all the re-writes. Working with you is always  a joy because I know you have the story and my best interest at heart (as you do with all the writers with whom you work). Thanks again”

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SERGIO F. BAMBAREN AUTHOR OF MEGA HIT BOOK, “THE DOLPHIN, STORY OF A DREAMER” (AND OUR ESTEEMED CLIENT) HITS MOVIE GOLD
Dear Craig and Judy,
I can't thank you enough for your patience and the wonderful feedback you gave us for our 3D Animation movie that will be released in 2009. The guidance you provided regarding the addition of comic-relief, strong antagonists and a spiritual message was invaluble. And your attitude towards life is an example I guess we should all follow. Thanks for being there!
I am pleased to tell you that our movie will now be distributed by one of Hollywood’s major Studios - initially in all of Latin America, with a first option for the rest of the world. Your openness and constructive criticism earned us what we were longing to hear when we showed it to industry professionals: They told us, “YOUR SCRIPT HAS SOUL!”
I will never forget the lesson of life you gave me Craig: “If you strike oil, stop drilling!” Judy, thanks for your patience and genuine interest in the project. When the movie goes to the theaters, you will find in the CREDITS: Judy Kellem – Script Doctoring. Thank you both, again, for all feedback that has helped make this Project a dream come true.
Truly yours,
Sergio F. Bambaren
CEO
Dolphin –Films (Peru)

Mr Bambaren’s iconic book has sold TEN MILLION copies worldwide so far

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BIG CONGRATS TO RZWAN CABANI AND TO CRAIG BOTTRELL

Dear Craig,

If you would've told me a year and a half ago, when we first started working together, that I would be writing this letter, I wouldn't have believed you.

I sincerely want to thank you for everything you've done. You're a consummate professional and give of yourself selflessly, which is rare.

You have been instrumental in making me a better writer.

To know that you're an ex agent, producer and executive can be a little intimidating, but you're one of the nicest guys I know. You've been the catalyst for the success of many writers and my scripts will always receive your magical touch. Frankly, the amount you charge for a consultation…we're ripping you off.

You're relentless in perfecting a script and have brought out the best in me.

I remember reading the coverage of contest winners on your site and aspired to be one of them, but with little hope. The beautiful thing about this contest is that you don't just choose winners because you have to. Sometimes it can take an extra month for another winner to be announced. You won't put your name on just anything, which makes winning even sweeter.

When you told me my first script “CRIMINALE” won I couldn't believe it. It was like a dream come true. I received about TWENTY requests for the script from different producers, agents and production companies. I couldn't believe it was happening. You made me realize that I had what it takes. It fueled my passion and I dove into my second effort, “BLACK BUTTERFLY." When you finally told me that it won as well, I almost jumped out of the window. I have since received about THIRTY INDUSTRY REQUESTS for the script.

Soon after winning, I received a call from two producing partners (one of them is also an agent) who want to option, “Black Butterfly” and get it produced. Next I had a conference call with them (from L.A.) and I felt really good about the conversation. They sent me an option agreement and agency contract. So I now officially have my script optioned and have an agent! They also wanted to see what else I had. I sent them Criminale and they want to work with that as well.

I can now say "Yeah, I spoke with my agent and...". I always wanted to be able to say that.

I remember you telling me once that, “success is trading in one set of problems for a better set of problems. “ What sweet "problems" I’m having now.

It's an amazing feeling to know your dreams are possible. So many people base their happiness on the days of the week. Mondays they're depressed and Fridays they're happy. I have to tell you, I haven't had a Monday since I first won.

I look forward to many years of working with you Craig. You've become a mentor and helped realize a childhood dream and I'm forever in your debt.

Sincerely,
Rzwan Cabani
r.cabani@hotmail.com
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Hi Craig,

A quick update on my script STUTTER PUNCH. Since winning your contest I have received numerous requests from various production houses, some major players. Better yet, I just received an option offer from a veteran producer in L.A. who loves the script. I'm still in a state of shock as the prospect of having my work on the big screen is more than a little surreal. Your script consultation far exceeded my expectations and is most certainly is better than any I have encountered. My sincere appreciation for your top shelf service!

Cheers,
Craig (Bottrell)
cpbotts@iprimus.com.au