Should I Convince Tim Burton To Make My Story Into A Movie?

Question

I have Tim Burton's address, which was NOT easy to get, I can tell you that.

And I was thinking of writing a persuasive letter to him, explaining that I want him to consider making my story (which is the hardest, most amazing story that I have ever done, all my friends and family LOVED it) into a movie. Although, it is not a script, I took some notes, wrote summaries, characters, the whole enchiladas. So anyway, I think that Tim Burton should do this, because it's his style. It's dark, fantasyish and quirky and I could clearly picture him directing this. If he does agree, he will invite me to we could discuss about it and hire someone who could help me write this story into a script.

So, you think this is a good idea? I feel that it is. Is this a bit unrealistic. I don't know.

Answer 1

1. It is an unrealistic goal.

2. Even though it is a longshot, go for it. What do you have to lose? There are some caveats to that though.
.....a. If Mr. Burton or some other person makes your movie and does not give you a dime or gives you any credit, don't be suprised. That happens a lot. Also, do not expect a face to face meeting, phone call, or even a letter. The people who work for Tim Burton will require you to present your entire story to them before it gets to Tim Burton. You have to get them liking the idea first.
.....b. Do not pester Tim Burton or anyone else. You will soon be labelled a stalker and have a restraining order against you. This will put a damper on your career as a writer.
.....c. To up your odds, I think you should go ahead and write the script out, or at least do a treatment.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Film_treatment
It sounds like you are closer to doing a treatment, but a script would work better for you. Do some research and learn the correct format that is expected for both.
.....d. Don't forget, there are plenty of other director/producers out there. Lots of places can make the movie. They not have the Burton touch, but many could do it. Shop the script around. You may find someone who is willing to make it.
.....e. You may want to learn a bit more how scripts are created and presented in Hollywood. There is a process and if you try to do something different then you will be ignored, even if your idea is a good one.
.....f. If you get this to script format, then get it copyrighted. Heck, even copyright the treatment. It would be best if you officially copyrighted the stuff. That will give you the most protection. Hopefully, you will never need it.
http://www.copyright.gov/register/performing.html

Answer 2

The guy probably has dozens of people approaching him everyday with the same request. I doubt if he has time in his schedule to sit down and read every script that someone hands to him, much less sit down and read a script that has arrived in the mail.
Maybe you could get your story published if it is that good. If it sells, the movie industry will take it into consideration.

It just sounds unrealistic to think a big movie director will take a script he found in his mail and make it into a movie.

Answer 3

Go for it. I mean really what is there to lose?¿ I have written so many short stories, and that alone is hard, I mean it just comes to you, but still. so writing a big story like that, I congratulate you! Just try it!! you never know! But I do agree with "themeindzeye" the person that commented a bit before me, You should always have a copy with your name and the date and all that stuff, because these people might sound and seem so great and honest... but really if he likes it but doesn't want to work with you, he can steel it. So make sure you have total proof that it's yours!

Answer 4

It's hard to say considering we haven't read your story ourselves. But I say send away! What's the worse that could happen? However, I'd ask someone with some expertise to read your story. Your family & friends are supportive, but they may say they love it to avoid crushing your dreams. Also, this second opinion could provide constructive-criticism that could help you revise your story before pitching it to Burton. Good luck!

Answer 5

unrealistic.....nooo, not at all. until u get to the end of ur question, where u picture him inviting u round for a chat.thats not enthusiastic about ur writing, thats cuckoo land. all the makings of a stalker/nutter....actually that would make a good movie, maybe i should write to wes craven???