What agents and managers look for in new directors.

Originality. Passion. Craftsman. Artisan. Professionalism. 

Query

As a novice filmmaker, a query letter is the best way to introduce yourself and your accomplishments to an agent or manager. 

A query is a one-page letter that explains who you are and your niche. The letter should be brief and informative.  State whom you are, where you are in your career and where you’d like to go. Also state, how you plan to achieve your goals.

Query Do’s :

Address your query letter to a specific person at the company. The DirecotorsLittleBlackBook.com lists which agents and managers are willing to meet with unrepped directors.

Keep your query short. Executives are busy. If they’re not intrigued by the third sentence, they’ll toss your query. Get to the point.

Remember, these executives are looking for fresh, interesting filmmakers with a unique point of view. 

Include your contact information so the rep can easily email or call you to request your reel or a meeting.

If you or your film won an award, mention that.

Use whatever credits you have no matter how small they might be. Don’t underestimate yourself.

If you don’t have any credits, list whatever credentials you have that are pertinent. If you directed a police drama and you work in law enforcement, mention that. It adds authenticity to your film.

Spell cheack

Query Don'ts

Don’t beg. You’re talented and your reel will speak for itself.

Don’t apologize. You’re not wasting anyone’s time; you’re giving them an opportunity to screen your reel and to meet a talented new filmmaker.

Don’t mention money. You want to get the executive to screen your film, not negotiate a deal.

Don't follow up a query letter with a call or another letter or email. If they’re interested in you, they’ll contact you.  

The Meeting

DirectorsLittleBlackBook.com lists well over five hundred contacts for new talent submissions, so it’s highly likely you’ll be called in for a meeting.  Be prepared for the next step. Bring your great reel or short and a script that’s reasonable for you to direct. Everyone wants to be in business with a writer-director. Be prepared to discuss your goals and a strategy to achieve them.  

Be punctual. Be your best self. Ask questions. Focus on your career plans. Building your career is key so inquire about career building services. Discuss their client list. You want a small ratio of clients to representative. Ask how many new directors are currently on their roster. And, of those clients, how many specialize in your niche. You need to stand out as a unique entity.  

How To Choose Representation

Breaking a new director takes time. If your agent or manager has a track record of launching new filmmakers, that’s a plus. You want a rep who is enthusiastic about your work and shares your vision regarding your career. An agent or manager should offer career guidance and provide a market overview. You want to feel at ease when you call your rep so choose an executive with a communication style and rapport that works for you. Lastly, you want representatives on your team who have the access and the stature to expose you to wide circle of people.