Confusing...

 So... I just got this email from PitchFest.

"The Hollywood Pitch Festival stands in solidarity with the WGA. While we pray for a quick resolve to the issues at hand (i.e., a two-week strike vs. a two-month strike), we will be monitoring the situation and will make adjustments – if need be – regarding our July 28-31 event. Luckily, it’s still ninety days away! 

That said, there will be no changes to the HPF unless/until the strike hits closer to July. Changes could include moving the date of the event. Pitching to non-signatory companies is allowed. Pitching to WGA-signatory companies is considered "scabbing." For a list of WGA Signatory Companies click here.

In the meantime, if you'd like to contribute to our Strike Fund which will bring drinks and snacks to picketing writers all over Los Angeles (and New York soon) you can do so here and get one of the super cool T-shirts shown below!

Note: If you are traveling to Los Angeles for the event, make sure when purchasing airfare to get refundable tickets or changeable tickets (and, per your welcome email, flight insurance) if possible.

Stay tuned!

HPF Staff"

 So... if I'm reading this correctly, FadeIn Magazine doesn't want to be accused (by established screenwriters) of "scabbing" during the strike.

I get it, but I also see this as a golden opportunity for new writers to have a chance to get their foot in the door.

And, let's face it, when established writers are available and working, agents and producers (in my experience) don't care about someone unestablished.

It's the "if you were really talented, you'd already be famous" attitude.

Same as the kid looking for his first job who's told, "we're looking for somebody with more experience."

I get that, in this day and age, you somewhat have the opportunity to make yourself famous (YouTube, social media, etc.) but not everyone has that desire. And writing is a very solitary act. 

I guess I'm just disappointed that FadeIn doesn't see this as an opportunity and sees it more as an obstacle to PitchFest.

But, then, I'm an outsider and I don't knopw all the Hollywood politics that go into this situation.

And why don't I know any of this... because no one in Hollywood has given me a chance.

It's a circular argument that bored, frustrates, tires and befuddles me all at once.