My Journey into the Screenwriting Profession: From Spec Scripts to Commissioned Projects

As a professional screenwriter, my path to success was not paved with standard routes. Unlike the typical model of selling spec scripts, my career took an unconventional route marked by networking, word of mouth, and eventually, commissioned projects.

Breaking into the Industry

My foray into the screenwriting world was neither through traditional channels nor by selling a spec script. Spec scripts, renowned for their difficulty, were not the path I took. Instead, I honed my skills by writing for directors and producers, gaining invaluable experience and connections within the industry.

One of my first ventures into the industry came through a chance encounter with Andy Cheng, Jackie Chan's stunt double. Our friendship blossomed into a mentor-mentee relationship. This relationship, sparked by a simple challenge to rewrite a script, eventually led to my first job as a screenwriter. Andy introduced me to Johnny Martin, who commissioned me to write the screenplay for Delirium. Johnny's connection brought me into the limelight of other producers, although several of those projects were shelved or awaiting funding.

First-Paid Gig and Word of Mouth

Seven years after my college days, my first paid gig came through a personal network. By simply telling certain individuals what I was looking for, I managed to secure a job. My network of contacts became crucial, as did answering online job ads within the same timeframe. This marked a turning point in my career, as I began to be recognized for my skills.

One of my biggest breaks came through a surprise green light on a pilot script. A close friend who worked in the industry saw potential in my treatment and passed it on without special instructions. This led to a green light, transforming my friends' casual assessment into a reality.

Commissioned Screenplays and Early Success

Before becoming a screenwriter, I had a screenplay optioned by someone in L.A., who had seen a brief teaser or synopsis of it that I posted on my bio on a casting database. Although the deal never materialized, it was a sneak peek of what was to come.

My first credited screenplay, Mere Yaar Ki Shadi Hai (2002), was commissioned. It was proposed by Sanjay Gadhvi, the director of the film, who I had assisted on his first film. I received an introduction from Sanjay to Aditya Chopra, one of India's most successful directors, who, after meeting me, affirmed that I was valuable addition to the industry, encouraging Sanjay to take me on board.

Early Struggles and Inspiration

The journey to becoming a screenwriter was arduous, spanning eight years filled with challenges and self-doubt. My days were filled with brainstorming, feverish writing sessions, and the constant pursuit of ideas that tormented me day and night. In college, my theatre enthusiasm and English literature major sparked a deep passion for storytelling and scriptwriting. One pivotal moment came in the parking lot of a theatre, as a makeup artist heard my idea for a play. This stranger's belief in my writing skills marked the beginning of my professional career.

I was a theatre enthusiast, someone who believed in the power of storytelling. My nights were filled with jotting down ideas and the restless energy that fueled my creativity. The constant pursuit of writing became a way to channel my dissatisfaction with the world around me. It was in these moments of deep thought that I found solace and direction.

In the end, it was this relentless passion and the support of a close friend that led to my first job as a screenwriter. My journey is one of perseverance and the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can find a place in the world of screenwriting if they have the right skills, the right network, and the unwavering drive to follow their dreams.

Keywords: screenwriting, spec script, commissioned script