The Kiss of Death for Writers comes in the form of a Compliment

"He that flatters you more than you desire either has deceived you or wishes to deceive."

If you stay in the game long enough as a writer, you’re bound to get a proper read. A read from a legitimate Hollywood mogul. Not your neighbor who used to be a screenwriter in the 70s and now is a professor. I mean a power-player. A producer with a first-look deal. A producer with credits your Aunt from Chicago has heard of.

That first read is a doozy. But don’t get too excited. My motto: checks are cashed, or I remain neutral. I have cursed myself by celebrating a script victory too soon i.e. being passed up to the studio, and partying like it’s 1999. The comedown ain’t worth the price.

So what’s this kiss of death you speak of?

Two things happen when you get your first high-caliber read: