Don't ask for it back.

I get a lot of submissions.  Scripts, CDs, headshots, etc.  I take the time to go through every one. 

Every once in awhile, someone asks me for their materials back if I send them a note saying their project is not for me.

Bad idea.

Sending materials to someone is like trying to plant a mine deep inside enemy territory.  Yes, it's true, it might not blow up when you want.  But let it lie dormant.  You never know when it'll go off.

Example:

I got a demo of a musical about 10 years ago that I thought had potential.  They never got the piece finished from what I remember.

Flash forward 10 years.  I was digging through old CDs and bingo, there it was.  I popped it in and remember how much I enjoyed it.  Then I looked at the composer's name, which I had forgotten.

Well, would you look at that!  The composer was a guy that just so happened to be having a reading of a new musical a couple of weeks from now and his agent had just sent me an invite!  I was originally going to skip it, but not anymore!  All because of that old CD.

I also often pass scripts and CDs to my staff, director friends, other producers, etc. who may be looking for new material and may have different tastes as well.  Just because it's not for me, doesn't mean it's not for anybody. 

Truth?  Yes, I do recycle some scripts as well.  But take the chance.  I know that CDs and binding are expensive, but it's an investment.   

If you ask for it back?  There's no chance it'll blow up.