A recent experience in the life of a fiction writer has sparked reflections on Hollywood’s past and present. Lou Aguilar, who once worked as a Story Analyst in the film industry during the 1990s, recounted his journey from evaluating scripts to his current endeavors as a screenwriter. This introspection was triggered by the feedback on his latest screenplay, an adaptation of his novel, "The Washington Trail."
In his role as a Story Analyst, Aguilar was responsible for assessing the viability of scripts and books for production companies. His job involved creating detailed reports known as Coverage, which included a Logline, Synopsis, and Comments on the material’s potential. The Coverage system was crucial, as it determined whether a project would move forward or be shelved. A "Pass" indicated a project was dead, while "Consider" moved it up the chain for further evaluation, and "Recommend" signified a hot property that needed immediate attention from producers.
Aguilar recalled a pivotal moment early in his career when he recommended a script about a Vietnam veteran, only to learn it was similar to a recent box office failure starring Bruce Willis. This misstep taught him the high stakes involved in script evaluations.
Fast forward to today, Aguilar is now working with independent producers who are keen on creating content that resonates with audiences rather than adhering to mainstream Hollywood trends. His latest project, which features an Army Ranger turned private detective, has garnered interest from a producer known for a successful film that diverged from typical Hollywood narratives.
The initial feedback on Aguilar’s screenplay was promising, describing it as a mix of action, mystery, and political drama. However, it also pointed out that some characters lacked depth and that the story took time to develop. Despite the mixed reviews, the project received a "Consider" rating, indicating it has potential for further development.
Aguilar’s reflections highlight the evolving landscape of Hollywood, particularly with the rise of independent producers who are willing to challenge the status quo and offer audiences different perspectives. As he continues to navigate this complex industry, Aguilar’s experiences serve as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities that come with storytelling in today’s entertainment world.