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An Open Letter to Elsie: What to Do With Your Completed Script

Hi Elsie,

First off, congratulations! Completing a script is no small feat—it’s a testament to your creativity, discipline, and vision. We received your message, and I wanted to respond in an open format because your question, “What’s the next step?” is something so many writers and creators grapple with after finishing their screenplay.

As someone who has been in the trenches of filmmaking for years, I can tell you that this is both an exciting and pivotal moment. Whether you want to take the indie route, pitch your script to studios, or partner with a production company, the path forward depends on your goals, resources, and willingness to invest in your dream.

This letter isn’t just for you—it’s for anyone standing at the same crossroads. I hope the insights and options I lay out here will inspire you (and others) to take that crucial next step. At ECG Productions, we’ve worked with writers and creators just like you, turning ideas into powerful visual stories. We’re here to guide you if you’re ready to move forward.

Now, let’s dive into your options.

Elsie Wrote Feature Film Guide for Filmmakers

You’ve Written a Script —What’s Next? A Guide for Filmmakers

So, you’ve written a script. First of all, congrats! Writing a script is no small feat—it’s an act of pure creativity, discipline, and vision. But now you’re standing at a crossroads, asking, “What’s the next step?” That’s where this guide comes in.

I’m Jason Sirotin, co-founder of ECG Productions, and I’ve been in the trenches of filmmaking for years, helping writers, creators, and brands turn ideas into fully realized productions. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about where to go from here, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many creators find themselves in your position, excited about their work but uncertain how to move forward.

In this article, I’ll break down your options, whether you want to produce your film yourself, shop your script, or collaborate with an experienced team like ECG Productions. Along the way, I’ll give you actionable insights, outline the costs involved, and show you how our expertise can help make your vision a reality—provided you’ve got the budget to back it up. (Spoiler: filmmaking isn’t cheap!)

A film production crew works in a desert location as producers and the Production Coordinator observe from a distance, demonstrating the logistical oversight of production coordination in remote settings.
A cinematic frame from an ECG narrative film, capturing a protagonist mid-action in a beautifully composed shot.

The Reality of Filmmaking: Dreams vs. Dollars

Before we dive into your options, let’s get real about something: filmmaking is a balance between art and business. While your passion and creativity drive the process, budgets and logistics determine how far you can take your vision. At ECG Productions, we’ve worked with budgets ranging from $10,000 to millions, and no matter the scale, one thing is true—success comes from planning, expertise, and a willingness to invest in your dream.

Option 1: Produce Your Film Independently

If you’re the hands-on type, producing your film yourself might feel like the most natural next step. Here’s what it takes:

 

A Steadicam or gimbal shot follows a man walking down a road wielding an axe, capturing the steady, ominous movement that Steadicam and gimbal operators use to build suspense and focus in dramatic scenes.

Set a Budget

Your budget will define everything about your production: the quality of your cast, crew, locations, equipment, and even the runtime of your film. Whether you’re planning a shoestring indie production or something more ambitious, start by getting clear on your financial resources. At ECG Productions, we can help you map out a realistic budget and stretch your dollars to get the most bang for your buck.

Build Your Team

Filmmaking is a collaborative art, and even the most talented directors can’t do it alone. You’ll need to hire or partner with a team of professionals—directors (if that’s not you), producers, cinematographers, editors, and sound designers. This is where having an experienced production company in your corner can be a game-changer. We’ve built teams for everything from micro-budget indies to large-scale studio projects, and we know how to get it done.

 

Execute the Vision

Production is where the magic happens—but it’s also where budgets and schedules can go off the rails. Without experience, it’s easy to lose time (and money) trying to solve problems on set. That’s why having seasoned pros on your team is crucial. We’ve spent decades ensuring productions run smoothly, and we can do the same for you.

A scene from ECG Productions' 'George Stinney - P-Dash' featuring 8-year-old George Stinney at his murder trial, filmed with a dramatic dolly shot to emphasize the gravity of the moment.

Option 2: Shop Your Script to Producers or Studios

If producing isn’t your thing, you might consider pitching your script to industry professionals who can take it from there. This path requires preparation, persistence, and a thick skin, but it’s worth exploring if you’re more interested in writing than producing.

Polish Your Script

Your script needs to be flawless. Period. Professional coverage services, script consultants, or even feedback from trusted peers can make all the difference. A clean, compelling, and professionally formatted script increases your chances of grabbing attention.

Create a Pitch Deck

A great pitch deck is your secret weapon. It communicates your story’s tone, characters, and visual style while showcasing your unique voice. At ECG Productions, we’ve created pitch decks that have opened doors for our clients, and we can help you craft one that stands out.

 

Research and Network

Finding the right producer, agent, or studio to pitch your script to is as much about research as it is about creativity. Be strategic about who you approach and tailor your pitch to their interests. We can guide you on where to start and how to navigate this often-intimidating process.

Option 3: Partner With a Production Company

If you’re passionate about your story but don’t want the logistical headaches of producing it yourself, partnering with a production company might be the perfect path. This is where ECG Productions excels.

Script-to-Screen Services

We specialize in taking scripts and transforming them into visually stunning, professionally crafted stories. From the earliest stages of pre-production to the final post-production polish, we handle every step of the process. Our team ensures that your vision is not only preserved but elevated, resulting in a film that resonates with audiences.

Tailored Solutions

No two projects are the same, and we pride ourselves on offering solutions that align with your goals. Need help with casting, securing locations, or setting a production schedule? Or maybe you want a team that can take full ownership of execution while you focus on the creative? Whatever the case, we adapt to your specific needs, offering support where it’s most valuable.

A Partner, Not Just a Vendor

At ECG Productions, we don’t just take orders—we collaborate. Your ideas remain the heart of the project, and we work tirelessly to bring them to life in a way that exceeds expectations. This isn’t just business; it’s about forming a partnership rooted in trust, mutual respect, and shared passion for storytelling.

An Investment Worth Making

Creating a film requires a financial commitment, and it’s important to be upfront about the resources needed to do your story justice. At ECG, we’re transparent about costs, ensuring that every dollar is spent where it matters most. That said, we’re also passionate about supporting the right projects and creative partnerships. For scripts and collaborators that align with our vision and values, we’re open to discussing discounted services to make your dream a reality.

If you’re ready to explore a partnership that brings experience, dedication, and flexibility to the table, we’d love to hear about your project. Together, we can create something truly extraordinary.

A Space Helmet Prop Makes This Science Fiction Film Set Pop - Shot at ECG Productions, Atlanta, GA
A beautiful blonde girl sits at a diner table in a Web Commercial scene, showcasing the ECG Art Direction team’s ability to create authentic, atmospheric settings.

Final Thoughts: The Next Step Is Up to You

Elsie, you’ve already done the hard part—creating a script. What happens next depends on your goals, your budget, and your willingness to take the leap. Whether you choose to produce it yourself, shop it around, or partner with a team like ours, the key is to keep moving forward.

At ECG Productions, we’re here to help if you’re ready to take that next step—and if you have the resources to invest in your dream. We don’t work for free, but we do work tirelessly to make every dollar count. If that sounds like the partnership you’re looking for, let’s talk.

Keep dreaming, keep creating, and don’t stop pushing forward.

Jason Sirotin
Partner & Executive Producer, ECG Productions

CONTACT US

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1-855 787-4487

Mon – Fri  9:00 AM – 6:00 PM EST

120 Interstate N Pkwy E SE #226
Atlanta, GA  30339
info@ecgprod.com

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Unlock a new level of creativity and experience a truly unique and enjoyable working environment with ECG Productions. Contact us today to bring your vision to life with our award-winning video production services.

 

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