Movie Making Manual/Pitching/Elements

What is an "Element"
Remember that seventies band Earth, Wind & Fire? Actually, in film parlance, an element is not one of the four classical elements - nor one of the 101 modern elements. It is, instead, a well-known cast or crew member. Jude Law is an element, as is Yuen Woo-ping, the famed fight director.

If you have an element, studios and independent investors are inclined to give you money. You will get more money if you have signed Jude Law than if you have signed Yuen Woo-Ping, but both are enough to make your project a "go."

How to get an Element
First, you need to decide who would be great for your part. A small part for a crotchety grandfather who used to be a cop? Try Clint Eastwood. Once you have decided who you want, you need to attempt to contact them. Direct contact is always best; if you know anyone who knows them, or if you can arrange to bump into them, take these options. If direct contact is not possible, make contact with their agent or manager. Here are some resources for finding managers or agents.


 * Who Represents
 * IMDB Pro

/Directing /Actors /Funding and budgetting