Good Question

A loyal Rouge Waver sent me a question today that many of us wonder about - even those of us already living in Los Angeles. And here's the question:

Do you think it is imperative that a screenwriter live in Los Angeles, or is it possible to function as a successful screenwriter in another state without having to relocate?

In my opinion, it definitely, definitely helps to be here, no question about it. But there are a lot of other things to take into account. A friend of mine and I were just discussing a really neat book called Your Money or Your Life about, well, your money and your life. More specifically, the book is about how you balance out how you want to live, where you want to live and what you want to do all day to support that. Los Angeles is very expensive. Take it from the Wave-inatrix who is currently seeking a 2 bedroom apartment in either West Los Angeles or Santa Monica and if you know of a great place, Let me know.

Ahem. Back to the question. Los Angeles is expensive, large, smoggy and sometimes a bit incestuous when it comes to show-biz. It's also vibrant and colorful with great weather, beaches and amazing diversity and great food. In other words, let us establish once and for all that yes, absolutely, living here is advantageous if you're pursuing a career in entertainment(writing or otherwise) but you have to be okay with living in Los Angeles, warts and all - even if the writing thing never takes off for you. So look at that way, dear readers. Don't move here thinking you will be rewarded instantly - or ever.

So what if you decide no way, I'm staying wherever I am - do you still have a shot? Yes, you do. Because good material will always out. Cream rises to the top. All that stuff. Say you have an identical twin and they have written exactly the same script only they live in LA and they have done some networking, elbow-rubbing and odd jobs. Will they have an advantage? With the identical script? Well, sure. But as long as you can fly out for a meeting on short notice and as long as you go that extra mile to develop relationships in any way possible - going to the upcoming CS Expo, pitchfests, taking the occasional weekend class at UCLA - then you should do fine. Because no packed up Uhaul is gonna write an amazing script.

It's not imperative. But it helps. It's your decision and your life. If you're happy as a clam at high tide where you are - stay there. If you're up for an adventure and a change and your expectations are totally realistic - maybe you should check it out.

If you enjoyed this post, follow me on Twitter or subscribe via RSS.