Expert: Russell Calabrese - 4/16/2010

Question
Hello Mr. Calabrese, I'm an amature writer and artist whose been working on an animated series idea for almost six years now and for the past couple of years anytime I've had a pressing animation question you've been my first source. I've asked you questions in the past and the answers and information you've provided have always been timely, sincere and informative, and I just wanted to thank you in advance.

For the past couple years I've been working a dead end job. At one point I was writing, and creating everyday, but the past year I've been pretty complacent. I recently experienced a life altering situation that made me say, "You know what it's time I get off my butt and really pursue this." Creating and providing entertainment is my dream, my passion and if I ever want to be truly happy then I gotta go for it full steam ahead. So I'm going to start taking the steps to pursue that including registering my idea with the writers guild, and getting back to writing on a daily basis. I had a few questions I wanted to ask that will hopefully get me back on the right track.

1. I know every one talks about pitching their idea to a network such as Cartoon Network, Disney, etc. I was wondering if it's uncommon, unheard of, or frowned upon to pitch an idea not only to a network, but an animation studio as well like Rough Draft, Film Roman, etc? Would they even hear you out?

2. With channels like Spike TV, SYFY and other channels that don't typically specialize in animated programs taking chances on animated shows do you see more adult oriented channels taking on animated programs?

3. I always hear a lot about the Internet being the next great venue for animation and budding creators. Are there any independent animation viewing, submitting or networking
sites that you would recommend?

4. I really want to start working on my networking and contacts list, so a branch off of question three, are there any good animation networking events, expos or conventions out there? I would love to get a face to face with other writers and artist trying to break into the business or maybe some industry insiders.

5. And lastly I was wondering do you ever read over scripts or bibles, and give input or advice? You always see some supposed industry insiders online saying they'll read over your material and give you advice on how to make it more professional or appealing to networks or studios but it's never anyone you're familiar with. It's always some guy who has a movie in development or someone who had a cartoon series back in the early eighties you've never heard of. It'd be nice to get some mentoring form someone whose work you've actually seen or heard of.

And sorry about the long letter, and many questions. I figured it'd be best to ask them all at once as opposed to three different letters. You know kill two birds with one stone kinda deal. But thanks again Mr. Calabrese for all the help and advice you've given in the past and for the questions I've asked today.

Answer
Hello John,

If you have a website of your work send me the link so I can look at your proposals.
I'll give you a sincere critique.
The way animation is going these days it's starting to look like another dead end job.

If I like your stuff we can talk on the phone an I'll give you the bird's eye low down on this caper.


Russell
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