Would now be a good time for an up-and-coming writer to enter the screenwriting business?

The way I see this situation, entering the screenwriting business for film or television could be a good or bad idea. The screenwriters' market is very unstable right now with the writer's strike and everything. However, at the same time production companies are having to postpone or delay projects until negotiations with the WGA are ironed out, meaning they are most likely looking for talented writers to fill empty positions temporarily. What is your take on this? Would now be a good time for writers to try to "break in"?

*For the sake of this question, please assume the writer's scripts speak for themselves. In other words, answer the question assuming the writer is just as talented as the average Hollywood writer.

Shadow Kat: I agree 100% with you, and that is my only hesitation. My problem is I love to screenwrite, and the industry is so hard to break into. I really do feel like I would be stepping on toes, however I have to weigh that against the fact that an opportunity like this may never present itself again. It's a tough decision. Good input though!

While now would be the time in theory..strike, Hollywood needs writers etc. I do not think it would be wise, these writers are striking for every writer and to break into the business while they are fighting would be like a slap in the face, Now if you don't really care about fair pay and such go for it.

I'm no expert at all but just a thought. I would think if you live in LA this would be a great time not to get a script sold, but network with WGA and actors. Think about it hundreds of actors and writers gathering. You never know who down the line will remember seeing your face around the strikes. Report It

Yes, right now i think it's the perfect time to be a screewritter. Because all the christmass movies have been written and are out so their going to need new movies for summer. It's good timing also with the strike because producers just want to get scripts and make movies, t.v shows ect.. and want people who are not involved with the strike. So good luck

You would be blackballed by the WGA. They don't allow scabs to join the guild, so you'd have no future in the industry. And, as a known scab, you'd face problems from actors who would refuse to work with you, which would also cause problems long-term.

You're looking at a tiny possibility of a short-term gain versus a huge long-term loss.