Whenever I run an event, I always get handed scripts and DVDs from film makers who want some kind of feedback on their work. And when I have spent time getting to know them, I find it hard to say what I really want to say…

‘Sorry, but I don’t have time to even work on my own script right now, so I don’t have time to even think about yours.’

And even though I dutifully take scripts and DVDs, at least half the people don’t ever follow up, they don’t even ask ‘did you manage to take a look?’ I guess they think I will chase them?

I got this email today from a film maker after I met him in Coventry at a workshop I ran last week. He was charming and offered to buy me a drink… Here’s what he said…

Hello Chris,
 
My name is Jon Plant. I handed you a diet coke with a script wrapped around it after your talk at Herbert Media, Coventry.
 
Thanks again for the talk – it was a genuine pleasure listening to someone speak in such a passionate way that nonetheless was primarily informed by the practical. Definitely a man after my own heart and I'd have liked to have bought you a drink even if I hadn't been whoring out my script.
 
I just wanted to very briefly explain the context in which I'm giving it to you – Platinum will be my second film shot on the RED camera (or better… if my maneuvering puts me in a position to allow it).

Due to its subject matter I am keen to use the film to raise awareness for charities such as Reprieve (who fund the legal aid for many of the Guantanamo Bay inmates)… but in turn to use the association to raise the profile of the film/ help secure funding/ get reduced rates/ attract a star… you know the drill. I am hoping that if I can also give some names of important industry people who have liked the script/ concept etc. this will have a similar effect.
 
I have a meeting with Amnesty International's marketing and media department next week to discuss the possibility of gaining their support. This would be a boon in terms of securing what I require for the production, but of itself does not speak for the potential quality of the film. If someone such as yourself were to read it, enjoy it and say so, I hope, for example, that agencies will more seriously consider letting the script through the door to some of my would-be cast.
 
If you hate it, you hate it. But you'd be the first so far.
 
I promise to spend double the amount of time that it will take to read constructing a superlative review of your online course – regardless of your response.
 
Kind Regards,
 
Jon Plant

This is about one of the best emails I have ever received with regard to a request to read a script or watch a DVD. Let’s look in more detail why it works. Aside from it being generally well written, witty and succinct, like a good script, it’s success is all about structure…

Hello Chris,

My name is Jon Plant. I handed you a diet coke with a script wrapped around it after your talk at Herbert Media, Coventry.

1. OK now I remember him clearly. You’d be amazed how many people think I remember everyone I have ever met!
 
Thanks again for the talk – it was a genuine pleasure listening to someone speak in such a passionate way that nonetheless was primarily informed by the practical. Definitely a man after my own heart and I'd have liked to have bought you a drink even if I hadn't been whoring out my script.
 
2. Flattery, we all have egos. Some bigger than others! 😉

I just wanted to very briefly explain the context in which I'm giving it to you – Platinum will be my second film shot on the RED camera (or better… if my maneuvering puts me in a position to allow it).

3. Proof of expertise, he is on his second RED film.

Due to its subject matter I am keen to use the film to raise awareness for charities such as Reprieve (who fund the legal aid for many of the Guantanamo Bay inmates)… but in turn to use the association to raise the profile of the film/ help secure funding/ get reduced rates/ attract a star… you know the drill. I am hoping that if I can also give some names of important industry people who have liked the script/ concept etc. this will have a similar effect.

4. OK, it’s for a good cause too. So I get to feel good about this as well as help.
 
I have a meeting with Amnesty International's marketing and media department next week to discuss the possibility of gaining their support. This would be a boon in terms of securing what I require for the production, but of itself does not speak for the potential quality of the film. If someone such as yourself were to read it, enjoy it and say so, I hope, for example, that agencies will more seriously consider letting the script through the door to some of my would-be cast.
 
5. A clear proposition with a deadline. And he is not asking the elementary questions like ‘will you fund my film’ or ‘how do I get Tom Cruise in it?’

If you hate it, you hate it. But you'd be the first so far.

6. Nice. I have a get out.

I promise to spend double the amount of time that it will take to read constructing a superlative review of your online course – regardless of your response.

7. And there is something in it for me. 

Kind Regards,
 
Jon Plant

All in all a great email and has persuaded me to read his script. Now let’s hope its terrific!

Picturtes by Andy Borg.

Onwards and upwards!

Chris Jones, Film Maker and Author
www.livingspirit.com
mail@livingspirit.com