S&S LIVE (Ep 50) Lit Manager Markus Goerg (Heroes & Villains) & Writer/Producer JJ Bailey
Oct 7, 2022
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Markus Goerg, co-founder of Heroes & Villains and a seasoned lit manager, teams up with screenwriter and producer JJ Bailey to dive into the entertainment industry. They discuss the vital role of script development in a writer’s journey and the nuances of the client-rep relationship. The duo emphasizes the importance of maintaining a diverse portfolio and building authentic connections to navigate early writing careers. They also explore manager-producer dynamics, shedding light on how the landscape is transforming in Hollywood.
Markus Goerg's transition from photography to literary management illustrates how diverse experiences can shape a creative career in storytelling.
J.J. Bailey's unexpected shift from a business-focused education to passionate screenwriting emphasizes the importance of following one's creative instincts.
The podcast highlights the vital role of strong client-rep relationships and the need for resilience in navigating the competitive screenwriting industry.
Deep dives
Markus Gorg's Path to Representation
Markus Gorg transitioned into representation from a background in photography and cinematography, which initially ignited his interest in storytelling. Struggling with drawing but passionate about visual arts, he found his niche in photography, eventually leading him to filmmaking. Inspired by a mentor, he began as an assistant in an agency and worked his way up in the industry, realizing that he preferred providing creative feedback over managing the practicalities of writing. This natural shift allowed him to support talented storytellers in enhancing their material and taking it to market.
JJ Bailey's Journey to Screenwriting
J.J. Bailey's journey into writing began unexpectedly while studying business and economics, far removed from the arts. Initially planning a career in commercial real estate, he discovered his passion for theater during a liberal arts class, which challenged him to explore his creativity. This awakening led him to plunge into screenwriting, learning the craft through both formal education and extensive reading, ultimately shifting his focus to television as he witnessed peers achieving success quickly. His first significant breakthrough came when he connected with Markus Gorg, who was impressed by his writing and offered his management services.
The Importance of Client-Manager Chemistry
Markus underscores the significance of a strong, collaborative relationship between a client and their representative. He identified J.J. as a standout writer, not solely for his excellent script but also for his vibrant personality and genuine enthusiasm for storytelling. This dynamic allowed for a more effective partnership, where open communication and shared creative vision played a crucial role in J.J.'s career advancement. Markus emphasized that personality traits like charisma and passion are vital for writers attempting to succeed in a competitive environment, as they must build rapport with executives.
Strategies for Pitching and Development
During the conversation, the duo discussed the various strategies involved in pitching and development for aspiring writers. They emphasized the importance of having a clear game plan, as JJ did when developing his project 'Vanishing Point' into a broadcast pitch, working closely with Markus throughout the process. This approach highlighted the necessity of understanding market dynamics and using existing connections to facilitate introductions and opportunities in a volatile industry. They illustrated that consistently refining one’s pitch based on feedback is essential for making a project resonate with producers and executives.
Navigating the Screenwriting Industry
Navigating the screenwriting industry requires resilience and an understanding that success often involves incremental progress rather than immediate accolades. JJ learned this early in his career, recognizing that having multiple scripts and developing ideas continuously positions a writer for better opportunities. Both Markus and JJ conveyed that while every new writer hopes for instant success, it's vital to prepare for a long journey filled with rejections and the need for ongoing self-improvement. Building relationships, showcasing versatile writing, and maintaining a consistent voice are crucial elements for any writer aiming to establish themselves in the entertainment industry.
S&S Live (Episode 50): We chat with lit manager/producer/co-founder of Heroes & Villains Markus Goerg and his client, screenwriter/TV writer/producer JJ Bailey about the development process, breaking into the industry, the client/rep relationship and much more!
WATCH a VIDEO version of this Episode: https://youtu.be/vBbpejI98TI
Scheduled to attend:
Markus Goerg
Twitter: @MGoerg
JJ Bailey
Twitter: @JJBailey22
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