THE WHO:
This is the website for Matt Tabak, screenwriting consultant.
Matt is a writer/director/producer, a former studio executive, and an attorney.
He has worn many hats in the business; he’s been a part of the studio system, the indie world, and the streaming universe.
Now for the first time he is offering his services to the public.
If you want script notes, help with production issues, or assistance with legal, financial or career concerns you have come to the right place.
THE BRAG:
Entertainment Weekly Called Matt “The long lost Coen Brother.”
Billy Bob Thornton: “Tabak gives some of the best notes in town.”
THE EXPERIENCE:
Matt worked for Touchstone/Disney, Paramount and Warner Bros, and Jerry Bruckheimer.
Developed the script 3000 which became “Pretty Woman” and coached Julia Roberts on her audition.
He developed over 150 projects. Read over 2000 scripts.
He hired and worked with hundreds of writers and directors including:
JJ Abrams, Ang Lee, Brian Helgeland (LA CONFIDENTAIL, MYSTIC RIVER), Jeph Loeb (DAREDEVIL, COMMANDO), Tony Scott, Chris Keyser (PARTY OF FIVE and Chief WGA Negotiator), Jonathon Hensleigh (ARMAGEDDON) and Sidney Lumet and many others.
Other career notables:
Discovered Andrew Kevin Walker (SEVEN) and gave him his first screenwriting job.
As a studio executive, gave such good notes on a project that Jeffrey Katzenberg (CHAIRMAN, WALT DISNEY and DREAMWORKS) wanted him to rewrite the script.
Bought the screenplay for “Face-Off” when every other studio had passed and developed the project.
Worked as a writer in all genres from rom-coms to psychological thrillers to historical epics and biopics.
Adapted Dostoyevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov for Francis Coppola and Sony Pictures.
Has written over 25 screenplays and pilots.
Wrote and directed “Auggie Rose,” starring Jeff Goldblum and Anne Heche.
Recently wrote and produced “The Other Zoey” for Amazon, a number one rom-com hit.
Taught screenwriting at University of San Francisco. Given pitching seminars across the country.
Was a transactional attorney on Wall Street and has advised numerous writers, directors and producers on deal making, contracts and strategy.
WGA member for 30 years.
THE WHAT:
Are you struggling to get your next draft to another level?
Are the notes you’re getting from friends and reddit not elevating your material?
Do you need advice on whether your idea is worth pursuing and/or how to tweak it?
I won’t just tell you “what’s wrong” with your script, I will offer concrete solutions on how to fix it. It’s what I’ve been doing for thirty years. Plus, I’m a writer, so I “get it.”
Do you need help with a contract?
Have a question about a producer’s offer?
Want assistance understanding the financial and/or legal intricacies of the business?
I can help.
THE NITTY GRITTY:
SCREENPLAY NOTES: $600.00 (up to 120 page draft)
Comprehensive reading of your draft. Plus a two-four phone call or zoom where we will discuss your project. I will provide detailed analysis, ideas, and constructive criticism. Hand written notes are not a part of this service. For scripts over 120 pages please contact me for a quote.
TV PILOT NOTES: $400 (up to 65 pages)
Comprehensive reading of your draft. Plus a two-three hour phone call or zoom where we will discuss your project. I will provide detailed analysis, ideas, and constructive criticism. Hand written notes are not a part of this service. For tv pilots over 65 pages please contact me for a quote.
TREATMENT ANALYSIS: $350 (up to 10 pages)
Comprehensive reading of your treatment. Plus a 1-2 hour phone call or zoom where I provide detailed analysis, ideas, and constructive criticism. Hand written notes are not a part of this service. For treatment over 10 pages please contact me for a quote.
LOG-LINE/IDEA PUNCH UP: $175
Send me your log line and in a 30 minute phone call/zoom I will assess it’s viability and give suggestions.
LEGAL/FINANCIAL/PRODUCTION CAREER HELP: $195 for first hour. $125 each additional hour.
THE MISC:
Matt lives in Hollywood with his teenage son, who learned at the age of two that for a story to be effective it needs conflict.
IMDB link: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0845860/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1
THE CONTACT:
For more info and to get started please contact me at: Matt.screenwritingconsultant@gmail.com