Boy, you don’t realize how hard it is to get a project off the ground until you try getting a project off the ground. It’s a lot of hard work, seemingly endless waiting, and plenty of disappointment. There are even times when you get close, very close, so close that you make the mistake of actually believing something is going to go – at which point it all dissolves away. But, after a while, you become habituated to the constant setbacks.
Having said all that, I honestly feel I’m close on several projects – one of which, I just have a feeling, will be going to camera sooner than later.
First up is that action-adventure series I’m pitching as National Treasure meets Castle meets White Collar. We’ve attached a star and a director, are negotiating a deal with a new partner, and are looking to take it out in the coming months. It’s a solid package, but it’s not without its challenges.
Second is that cozy mystery series. We have a buyer that loved the pitch and is reading the script now. My producing partner’s feeling on this is that they may want to turn the pilot into a movie, ideally the first of many in a series as part of a Mystery Wheel in the vein of the NBC Columbo/McCloud/MacMillan and Wife days. I await their response.
Third is another action-heavy thriller that has garnered some interest as a possible international series (that may, if all the pieces fall into place, see me re-teaming with my old friend and fellow writer-producer Alexander Rumelin).
Fourth is that high concept low-budget horror-comedy that I initially planned to produce myself. But it’s pretty clear at this point that aint happening so I had my agent send it out. So far, it went to four places. Two got back to me immediately with interest. This one is a no-brainer and as much as I’ll be happy to see it onscreen, I have no doubt it will make someone else a lot of money.
Fifth, there’s two other horror features I’ve had in my back pocket. As I solidify relations with these horror houses, I’ll send them their way as well and see how it goes.
Sixth, there’s the various comic book projects. To be honest, another crapshoot.
Finally, on more of a general note, I ended up meeting writer-producer Simon Barry (Warrior Nun, Continuum) the other day. My plan was to be in and out in an hour as I’m not a fan of the industry meet-and-greets, but we ended up hanging out for a little over three hours, discussing the industry and comparing war stories and very similar approaches to our craft. A very talented genuinely good guy (and you know I wouldn’t say it if I didn’t mean it).
As my buddy director-producer J.B. Sugar is fond of saying: “Onwards!”
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Excited for you and all the percolating projects! Personally, I’m most excited to see the “National Treasure meets Castle meets White Collar” project as well as the cozy mystery that would be a part of a rotating series of mystery series. I love cozies and the thought of a newish version of a “Columbo/McMillan& Wife/McCloud” piece is very intriguing!
Agreed! Onwards!
Awesome!
All fingers and toes are crossed.
I can only imagine how incredibly frustrating and exhausting it is.
But, do hope you’ll choose to continue hanging in there.
In the mean time,
sending virtual happy pistachio thoughts your way. xo
https://eu.venchi.com/root/chocolate/pistachio-chocolate/5637163354.c
As for yesterday, it looks like I’m out numbered by beer/ale consumers who think
chocolate cake made with stout would actually tempt their palate.
Hey Joe? I remember a time, not too terribly long ago when you, as well, disliked beer.
Kinda curious, which beer or ale caused you to change your mind?
Was it smooth and sweet? Bitter? Salty?…..
Hmmmm. Don’t recall ever disliking beer.
Well, my memory these days is certainly only a tiny fraction as sharp it previously was.
Maybe? it was just a particular beer you didn’t much care for?? Then, a couple years later, you found one you enjoyed?? or maaaaybeees – you just messin’ with me, eh?!
😀
Anywhooo, yes, definitely onwards!
If the LA pitch folks haven’t gotten back to you with a date to meet face to face,
maybe? you and Akemi should consider returning to your original plan to travel a bit? Two days in New Orleans. Two in Charleston.
Just Go! Be a wee bit spontaneous. Have some fun!
Chill out … Recharge your batteries … Get in some good eats and culture. xo
And if someone does contact ya with a possible eager buyer for one of your scripts
after you’ve already purchased your plane tickets
– you’ll only be away four days.
You can schedule any in person meetings to take place after the much needed short holiday.
No sense staying home watching mediocre crime shows,
Holding your breath – waiting for the phone to ring.
time to exhale.
All sound interesting, but No sci-fi in the works? I certainly miss Dark Matter….
Good luck though!
Vraiment hâte de voir un de vos projets à l’écran!
I expect that after a few minor bumps in the road these projects will be smoooth sailing!
Seriously, I have trouble keeping track of them all.