Watch My Writing
As an unpublished indie author it can be difficult pitching content without sharing too much. If you're self-promoting but want to keep the specifics of your story a secret (to maintain the magic of the world you've created), give your audience teasers by comparing your books to popular movies, series and shows. This way your readers have a clear understanding of what they can expect when they buy your stuff -- without you having to give away the goods.
This week's blog explores the pros of film and television comparisons, with examples pulled from my own work. Is this a cheap trick to sell my stories while simultaneously teaching new artists valuable info? Absolutely -- kill those birds, right?
SHOWS
Television shows are an awesome vehicle to share details about your characters. When we commit to watching a show, which requires a significant time investment, we form emotional attachments to the cast -- their ups, downs, in-betweens and growth. I highly recommend you use multi-season shows to highlight the best parts of your people.
For example:
In my stories characters are messy, quirky and morally grey -- what fun! If you like Nadia Vulvokov, Lieutenant Nanette Cole and Phil Miller you'll probably connect with my casts.
SERIES
If you want your readers to get the style of your books, series can effectively communicate your vibes. Because series are often short and condensed their creators have to, very quickly, tap into the parts of our imagination that pick up on aesthetics -- so series storytellers rely heavily on music, design and visuals to craft tone, mood and energy. Find the episodes that best encapsulate the flavour of your writing and you'll more rapidly define the attitude that attracts your target audience.
For example:
THE WOMAN IN THE HOUSE ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE GIRL IN THE WINDOW
I love suspense, neo-noir energy and stories where you feel like you, the audience, are missing crucial information about what's going on -- throw in comedic irony with not-so-subtle digs at literary tropes and you've got my books in a bookshell.
MOVIES
Plot. World. Theme.
Do you want your readers to understand what their minds, hearts and souls are walking into (reading into)? Of course you do. Movies are a fantastic way to highlight the action, culture and big-picture thematic takeaways you want your audience to experience.
For example:
Futuristic science for the purpose of discovery instead of helpful societal contribution
Animalism and allegory used to "safely" explore difficult challenges society faces
Adorable -- and human-like -- robots that have deep -- and human-like -- connections with their people (and I love having everyday 'everymen' navigate extraordinary circumstances)
Shamless plugs aside, I hope this blog was helpful. Before your work is released it's important to be clear about what your readers will be investing in, and using film and television to communicate your most important story elements can be a powerful tool in your artist belt.
Have fun searching for cinema that represents your chronicles!