Back with more query letter confusion

[gophergrrrl]

I posted yesterday with my query problems, got great help. Still, I have more questions, so this is kind of a follow up.

I've found an abundance of queries for novelists, but I need info on those sent on behalf of screenplays. First question; the way you approach the subject matter for novels and screenplays should be very different, correct?

On to the second question. In my previous post, I mentioned how I had submitted to WMA (I know, I know, they're big time. Too big for me. Let me dream, k? hehe). Here comes the conflict-- up until WMA replied to me, I had been following several query guidelines, (this one in particular: http://breakingin.net/tswquery.htm ) and in the guide it tells you to elaborate on your screenplay/what its about/marketing angles/unique-ness/etc, as so many other guides do. However, WMA and nearly all other agencies that I've researched tell you very plainly to not send unsolicited material. Problem! How do I tell them about my screenplay without TELLING them about my screenplay? (Disclaimer: I do realize that the chances in which I misunderstood that guide are good, very good. I know they didn't TELL me to send a logline...) Now, since I did send a logline, I'm wondering if I already know the answer to this question, and only need vindication. Did I get a send back on my submission because I sent a logline?... which is, I guess, technically, part of the creative material used for the actual marketing phase, right? In which case, does it mean that if I don't send the actual logline, but casually give them, basically, the same information, it's a technical loop to jump through for them and enables them to read about my work without breaking legalities?
Condensed; as long as that information isn't in logline form, then its ok for them to agree to read it?
Oh, confusion! But, seeing as how I was corrected on my error, and then went back to that particular guide, I do have a better understanding of what it is actually telling you to incorporate. Just having a little trouble doing so.
Third and last question (for now), I just need to know if anyone knows of some good query letter samples for screenplay writers! *pulls out hair*

I'm dyin' over here, guys. Help me help me help me pleeeease! =o]

[dpaterso]

You're already looking at example query letters, so pointing you at more of same (see links in the screenwriting tips (http://absolutewrite.com/forums/showthread.php?t=24087) sticky thread) perhaps isn't going to work. How about posting your query letter in Share Your Work > Screenwriting forum and maybe we can help pick it apart and put it back together again?

Please -- insert blank lines between paragraphs! If your query is anything like your post above, it's a tough read!

-Derek

[gophergrrrl]

Sorry about that, I'm used to posting at another forum, and you're limited on space. It's a habit, I guess.

Actually, what I'm hoping that someone can point me to is an actual letter sample. I've seen a few guides, but they all seem to have conflicting information, and it has really brought me to a stop with my work. One guide tells me one thing, and another tells me something else.

[RainbowDragon]

Dear Ms. Big-Wig Producer,

Strike Three is my latest feature romantic comedy screenplay. Here's the logline and a brief synopsis:

A down on his luck retired pitcher must decide between baseball and his high school sweetheart.

When Jeff "Strikey" Wilson lost the Yankees the world series, he left the world of baseball at his lowest point. Now the Diamondbacks want him, to the tune of a seven-figure salary. But his old flame and current fiance' can't leave her family dairy farm!

My short script "Bowling with Beowulf" was produced by _______. I have placed third in _____ Screenwriting competition. My print credits include ________. I have also worked as a script reader [for ___________].

I'd love to send a copy of Strike Three for your consideration.

Sincerely,

me


***

Pretty simple -- this is a sample letter above (there's no script to go with it so don't ask, as if anyone would!). If you don't have any credits just leave that paragraph out completely. You don't have to list all your credits if you have a lot, just think of which ones would impress a producer and list those.

1st paragraph: Brief handshake
2nd: one-sentence logline
3rd: 3-sentence synopsis (leave them wanting more)
4th: credits (leave out if none)
5th: closing
Signature, you're done. Then sit back and wait, but don't hold your breath! It tends to be a slow industry.

[gophergrrrl]

Alright! Thank you, Dragon! ^.^

[Julie Gray]

Yup - well done, Rainbow Dragon. Keep it short and sweet. I reprinted a list on my blog, that a producer posted on Done Deal about what NOT to include in a query letter. It is very helpful.

Here's the link to the post:

The Rouge Wave (http://www.rougewave.blogspot.com)

[RainbowDragon]

Thanks, Julie!

Forgot to mention, if it's the first script you've written, never admit it--not in the query, not in the cover letter, MAYBE think about it after it's been produced. . .(if it's that fortunate).

[Monaco]

link removed via request from other site's Webmaster.

There you can see three examples. Just scroll down 2/3 of the page or so, until you see "THE UGLY." If you click on THE BELFAST CONNECTION, you'll see an actual scanned letter. Do the same with "The Bad" and "The Good."