Ever wondered what it takes to break into Hollywood as a writer? In today’s episode, NOT REAL ART host Scott “Sourdough” Power sits down with Paul Miloknay, a former attorney turned author, to chat about his new book, “Welcome to Hollywood: A Survival Guide for Aspiring Writers."
In their discussion, Paul shares his journey from the courtroom to crafting a comprehensive guide specifically designed for novice writers. He emphasizes the challenges of making it in Hollywood and highlights the critical importance of understanding the legal aspects of creative work. Among the key topics discussed are the value of building trustworthy relationships, the need to protect your intellectual property, and why every collaboration should involve clear written agreements.
The conversation also digs into the current landscape of the entertainment industry, especially how recent economic shifts and labor strikes have reshaped opportunities for writers. Paul not only shares insights but also offers practical strategies for navigating these complexities. He reiterates that while talent is important, success in Hollywood often hinges on informed planning and relentless perseverance. Listeners gain actionable tips and a clearer understanding of what it really takes to thrive in the competitive world of writing. Whether you're a budding writer or just curious about the industry, this episode is packed with valuable advice and real-world examples to help you on your journey.
Quotes From This Episode
“The idea [for my book] originated because I work with a lot of younger writers who, you know, they're at the very outset of their careers. And what I found is almost all of them came to me with problems. Problems that could have been avoided if they had read my book or consulted with an entertainment attorney.” — Paul Miloknay [05:29]
“Make sure that you're partnering with someone reliable that you trust, that you can get along with, that shares your vision and things like that, you know, because collaborating with the wrong partner, usually, it'll just cause your project to stall or die on the vine.” — Paul Miloknay [18:08]
“Ideas are not protectable. You can't get a copyright or a trademark on an idea. So, the first thing you need to do is put it in writing. You know, write out your idea in as much detail as possible.” — Paul Miloknay [22:31]
“Starting with COVID and definitely since the actors and writers strikes, there's been a massive contraction of the business. I think during the strike, all the studios took a step back and took a look at their business models and made some radical changes.” — Paul Miloknay [39:39]
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Katie Love: Two Tickets to Paradise
Paul Miloknay: Welcome to Hollywood
About Paul Miloknay
Paul Miloknay is an accomplished entertainment attorney with over 25 years of experience in the industry. After earning his undergraduate degree in English and film from Yale and his Juris Doctor from UCLA Law School, he transitioned from commercial litigation to specialize in entertainment law. Paul has a diverse clientele, ranging from prominent writers and directors to emerging talent, providing them with invaluable legal guidance. He is known for his commitment to protecting his clients' intellectual property and helping them navigate the complexities of Hollywood. Paul resides in Los Angeles and is dedicated to fostering the success of aspiring writers and artists.
