Seeing a novel come to life on the big or little screen is almost like witnessing a miracle to most authors. The story you dreamed up and poured your soul into is portrayed with real live actors, settings, music, and all else. Even if someone dislikes reading novels, the person can take pleasure in your story on film. It is the ultimate accolade for an author. What’s more, book-to-film projects are a hot commodity in Hollywood. More than ever, novels and true stories are adapted into movies. There are several ways this dream can come true for you. 

Agents, Publishers, Attorneys, Self

Many literary agents work with film agents to secure movie deals for the books they represent. If your goal is to see your story depicted on screen, research literary agents who work with Hollywood agents. Sometimes they also work with talent management companies.

Some publishers have personnel who seek film deals for their literary works via various means. Additionally, there are entertainment attorneys who represent authors. They present their works to agents, production companies, major film studios, and talent management firms. A great directory for film agents and entertainment attorneys is The Hollywood Representation Directory by Hollywood Creative Directory Staff. Always get the latest edition.

You are a precious source who is empowered to bring your work to the big or little screen. The Hollywood Creative Directory, which is produced by the same staff of the abovementioned directory, lists production companies, and other moviemakers. This is updated several times a year, so again get the latest edition. 

Bear in mind the manner in which producers or other industry pros want your story first presented to them. Initially, they may not have time to review the book. They may prefer a query letter or synopsis. If the storyline sparks their interest, they will request the book.

If movie acclaim is what you desire strongly in your heart, pursue it intelligently, and passionately. Your dream can become reality. You can make it happen. Those who have the success you desire once had only a dream just as you do.

Sell Manuscript

If you have a literary agent, he or she can acquire a film deal even when the book is in the manuscript stage and unsold. This is achieved by submitting it to publishers, as well as the industry professionals mentioned above.

If you don’t have an agent, you can still submit your manuscript to those types of companies. Again, do your research to find out who will accept your submissions. Be committed to securing deals for your project in both forms of entertainment. Films deals can happen at the manuscript stage. A fantastic fictional work will appeal to the film and publishing world—and double your success. 

Adapt Your Novel Into A Screenplay  

You can learn how to write a screenplay and adapt your novel. There are classes, workshops, and great books to help you attain this goal. I learned through books and highly recommend The Writers Guide To Writing Your Screenplay: How to Write Great Screenplays For Movies and Television by Cynthia Whitcomb, and The Screenwriter’s Bible: A Complete Guide To Writing, Formatting, and Selling Your Screenplay by David Trottier. After reading these books, I entered my first screenwriting contest and won! 

Once you fall in love with screenwriting, you will most likely attempt to write original screenplays. Entering contests is a thrilling way to get your story noticed by Hollywood. Contests, such as the prestigious Nicholls Fellowship in Screenwriting, led to major film successes for many of its contestants. Mike Rich, the screenwriter of Finding Forrester, starring Sean Connery, and Susannah Grant, the scriptwriter of Erin Brockovich, starring Julia Roberts, were both Nicholls Fellowship winners.   

Evaluate if your book is visual enough and has the elements that will make an exceptional film. Some books are for pure reading enjoyment while others are perfect for both forms of entertainment. If you have a publishing contract, consider the film rights in your negotiations. Some authors maintain their rights. This enables them to do what they wish with their work. Other authors feel comfortable putting this career move in the publisher’s hands.  

Produce Your Film

If you are willing to put a great deal of effort into getting your story on film, you may want to produce it yourself. Producing your film independently requires you to acquire financing and assemble the film industry professionals to successfully complete the project. 

In creating an attractive product package, you will need a budget for equipment, costumes, travel, etc. A screenwriter (if it is not you), director, actors, camera crew, distributor, and others are also included in that package. Because of the popularity of the internet and the varied ways of showcasing your work on it, online projects are often a successful option for filmmakers. There are books, directories, classes, and online sites to assist you with your venture.

Whether it is for television, features, or online viewing, you can produce a profitable, high quality film that is in demand. Others have done it. So can you. Below is a list of books to assist you.
  
The Independent Film Producer’s Survival Guide: A Business and Legal Sourcebook by Gunnar Erickson, Harris Tulchin, Mark Halloran, and J. Gunnar Erickson

 The Complete Film Production Handbook, Third Edition (Book & CD Rom) by Eve Light Honthaner

 From Reel to Deal: Everything You Need To Create A Successful Independent Film by Dov S-S Simens

 The Art of Film Funding: Alternative Financing Concepts by Carole Lee Dean

 The Filmmaker’s Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide For The Digital Age by Steven Ascher and Edward Pincus

*Book-To-Film information published by award-winning, best-selling author Loure' Bussey