Why Your Spec Script Isn’t Working

Success stems from continuous creation, not calculated moves.

Let’s explore how Dean Devlin and Jonathan Glassner approach breaking into today’s television industry… And their unconventional wisdom about spec scripts.

Here’s their refreshing perspective on succeeding as a modern screenwriter:

“I think it’s more important to pitch the why of the show instead of the show. If you’re a writer that they want to work with, then I think it’s more of convincing them that your project is worthy of being made.”

Let’s break down their essential insights:

1. The Passion Principle

• Write what genuinely excites you
• Ignore market calculations
• Let authentic enthusiasm drive your work

2. Pilot Strategy

• Establish premise in act one
• Show a typical episode
• Give executives clear series vision

3. Writers’ Room Success

• Master writing in others’ voices
• Maintain your unique perspective
• Balance adaptation with originality

The game-changing insight: Success isn’t about perfecting a single script or predicting market trends. It’s about consistent creation and finding direct paths to your audience.

Their tactical advice:

• Write every day without overthinking
• Complete projects quickly and move forward
• Utilize modern platforms to showcase work

Quick mindset shift: Stop waiting for industry permission. Instead, focus on creating consistently and building your audience through available platforms.

Keep writing,

- Brock Swinson

P.S. Here’s my full audio interview with Dean Devlin & Jonathan Glassner.