by Angela Guess
[Note: Ken & Doug are coming out with a new, expanded version of the book. Check out their article about the additions here.]
Every once in a while, someone with a new screenwriting book or seminar or product asks me to write a review. Unfortunately, I often have to decline after trying the product or reading the book.
This is not one of those cases.
When I was asked to read The Hollywood Pitching Bible by Douglas Eboch and Ken Aguado, I was intrigued — there are a plethora of books about screenwriting itself, but I haven’t seen many specifically about pitching. I was suspicious that Douglas and Ken might simply regurgitate run-of-the-mill advice, but after reading the first chapter, I was hooked.
The authors have put together a guide that is straightforward, insightful, and full of practical advice that both novice and professional screenwriters can benefit from. They cover everything from developing story ideas to how to behave in an actual meeting. Both feature and television pitches are covered, but an emphasis is placed on feature pitches. The Hollywood Pitching Bible is a book you can read in a few nights, and the knowledge you’ll gain will stay with you throughout your career.
