A conundrum is plaguing Hollywood: to get buyers or financiers interested, you need A-list talent or a director attached, ideally underlying IP, and a production company already involved. Most agents and managers don't have the bandwidth to package for their clients, and producers are chasing projects that are further along. In this marketplace, it can seem impossible to "break in."

But here's the silver lining: these challenging conditions are forcing writers and filmmakers to become entrepreneurial, and that means more power to the creatives.

So how do you solve the chicken-or-the-egg dilemma? How do you get money without talent, or talent without money?

I've heard from countless executives and reps that it all comes down to the script. Nothing surprising there.

I know producers who rely on letters of intent or set aside escrow funds to make offers contingent on securing full financing. But in challenging market conditions, opportunities arise. More and more talent and directors are willing to attach themselves to material that genuinely excites them, especially amidst a sea of remakes and cookie-cutter content.

If you don't know where to start to get your project packaged, start with your script. The concept, the idea, the characters: that's what opens doors. Good craft.

I've seen it countless times and have advised hundreds of writers who got major talent attached to their projects by simply pitching their hearts out. If you know what the market is looking for, what talent are seeking, what could be a good fit for them, and your script is airtight, you'll be miles ahead of everyone else.

And here's proof it's working: producers, buyers, and executives are coming to Stage 32 specifically to find material. They know our community has writers who are serious, professional, and ready.

Just recently, I worked with a Stage 32 writer who had no representation but got a major talent attached to their script through the talent's agent at CAA. Now CAA is shopping the project to buyers.

Sometimes, all you have to do is take your shot.

But my advice in this market? Be hyper-targeted. I see too many creatives and execs approach every buyer or talent with the same pitch. Do your homework. Curate your pitch to who you're talking to. It's a courtesy not many take the time to do, and it can work magic.

You don't have to compromise your vision. Just tailor how you present your project.

This Week in the Writers' Room

Members are invited to a Q&A with Michael Schulman, currently a Story Analyst for Amazon Studios, where he covers all submissions for development. Prior to Amazon, Michael was a story analyst and script consultant for Netflix in the Original Independent Film (OIF) division. He's also worked at Barry Mendel Productions on the Disney lot, served as VP of Development for Alec Baldwin's company at Orion Pictures, and held the same role for Dennis Quaid's company at TriStar.

Michael will be discussing "How Spec Scripts Get Shopped by Agents & Considered by Studios" as he looks back at his 30+ year career and his involvement on Groundhog Day, The Sixth Sense, Regarding Henry, and Munich.

Last Week in the Writers' Room

Members had the opportunity to pitch Myra Model of Model Management, Executive Producer on SUNNY NIGHTS and a trailblazer in launching the television careers of Sundance and Humanitas Prize winners and playwrights.

Myra dropped incredible insights about what's happening in the industry, reminding writers to really focus on "Why you? Why now?" and what's different about your project because executives have heard it all.

If you would like to join the Writers’ Room, access weekly events, submit to dozens of open writing assignments, and attend exclusive pitch tanks with industry executives- click HERE for a free trial!

This Week’s Exciting Announcements!

This week, we're thrilled to spotlight a Stage 32 member, double-recommended screenwriter, and Stage 32 competition winner!

Josh Miller - Screenwriter!

Big congrats to Stage 32 member Josh Miller, an award-winning Canadian writer, producer and story consultant who signed with Tamer Ahsan of Zero Gravity Management after a consultation. He has penned or produced feature films released by Universal, Warner Bros., Momentum, eOne, Equinoxe, First Look, DARO and Vision Films as well as television programs for Paramount, Lifetime, Hallmark, Dick Clark Productions, Viacom, Disney Channel, PBS, Showtime, Family Channel, The Movie Network, Movie Central, Super Channel, Discovery Kids, YTV, CBC, APTN, Bravo and TVO. His book Stuck! Learn to Love Your Screenplay Again is available on Amazon.

Announcing the Stage 32 Action/Thriller Screenwriting Contest Finalists!

Congratulations to our semi-finalists who are one step closer to development opportunities with our industry partners! The winner goes into development and packaging at Zero Gravity (producers of THE ACCOUNTANT 2, Emmy-winning OZARK).

Need help navigating the industry? Contact success@stage32.com

Stage 32 has hundreds of opportunities. Reach out to our success team at any time for personal guidance and career advice.

Let's hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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