Thread by @ThisisKaia

Thread: What writers should know from my job working as a development exec (we made Just Friends, Peaceful Warrior, the Good Night, Hachi a Dog’s Tale)

1: There are 2 main pitching mistakes: you are confusing or boring. Pitches should not be a writer/producer/director monologue the whole time. Converse! Have fun talking.

2- if you write comedy you MUST be funny in the room during the pitch. Make em laugh. Or we won’t think you’re funny on the page.

3- Busy execs who read scripts and not just coverage might give a script a “40-10” means we read the 1st 40 pgs and the last 10. Make those pages strong af.

4-A dev exec has a boss they report to. If they love your script next step they pitch their boss or have you come pitch their boss. It was VERY hard to get my boss to read anything. (Unless Brad Pitt was attached.)

5-Dev execs can take 6 meetings a day sometimes- and dinner and drinks. You gotta be memorable. Be the pitch that the exec falls asleep that night thinking about even if you pitched at 9am

6- Be prepared if an exec doesn’t like your pitch but likes you they’ll ask “What else do you have?” Have answers!

7: A “pass” is not the end of the world. If that exec says you’re a great writer, pivot to ask: who do you know this would be right for? Can you intro me directly?

8- If you’re nervous talking to a buyer, just say so. People are compassionate. Take a breath. Make eye contact. Be in the moment. Breathe during interruptions.

9- dev execs are people. Don’t be afraid to ask them about their own ambitions and next moves and what they need. You may be surprised!

10- Plan on taking that relationship with you. They may change companies. You may write something that’s a better fit. Be friendly. Dare to even position another writer you feel might meet their need- they’ll remember you next time.

11- I founded the Entertainment Business School to help creatives: writers, directors, actors, navigate this often opaque industry. Next cohort is in autumn. DM me your email if you want to be on our pre-signup list to apply. Spaces limited. Hope this is helpful :)
#EBS