The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers From Hollywood To Novels: TD Donnelly On Screenwriting, Adaptation, and Storytelling That Lasts
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Mar 31, 2025 T.D. Donnelly, author of the thriller 'The Year of the Rabbit' and a seasoned screenwriter known for hits like 'Sahara' and 'Conan the Barbarian,' shares his insights on the writing journey. He explores the differences between screenwriting and novel writing, tackling industry challenges like ownership and creative control. Donnelly also discusses marketing strategies for screenplays and the allure of special edition books, alongside the transformative role of AI in publishing. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their creative projects and explore the evolving landscape of storytelling.
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Early Success
- T.D. Donnelly's thesis film script sold in a bidding war, paying off his student debt.
- This early success launched his Hollywood screenwriting career, despite being "hip-pocketed" by an agent.
Competitive Landscape
- Screenwriting is highly competitive, with thousands of scripts vying for limited production slots.
- Success in film directly impacts others, unlike the book industry where success can lift everyone.
Gatekeeping in Film
- Film remains a gatekept industry due to high production costs, favoring adaptations of established works.
- This offers pre-awareness and audience assurance, justifying large budgets.
