Thread by @ThisisKaia

🧵The reason studios focus on rebooting Harry Potter, eg, rather than finding the next Parasite, is called “cascade theory” and it is a safety net applied by buyers to provide financial reasoning for backing projects. Here’s how to tap it to position an original like a cascade:

2 Whenever the strike ends, writers will start pitching again. When you get back out there: DONT say: this thing I wrote is unlike anything else! Do say, it’s similar, but different. That’s key. (Cont #screenwriting )

3 We have affection for new familiar tastes! Why I love to taste new bourbon? I already love bourbon. Implied cascade sets buyers more at ease. Swinging on an original is scary for money people. Here’s the term I teach:

4 My definition fr students in class #EBS of commerical projects is: Familiar But Different (FBD). It’s a hug of familiar w/ the zest of a new idea. So as you think about how to position your work when the strike ends, consider buyers will be in this mood of IP certainty—

5 And their bosses are pushing for the media cascade of what will be a sure hit. A smart company I see nailing the new is A24. Giving audiences what they want. Many cos just don’t know how to greenlight originals. But you can use a cascade strategy. Last thing:

6 Your project may be totally new! We’ve never seen anything like it! Ok- That’s a positive for cautious buyers if you can frame it as FBD.

I so look forward to the WGA getting a good deal for writers. Stay strong! In the meantime pls:

Take care of your mental health. Socialize, work out, eat well, get rest. Follow strike news directly from the WGA. Picket if you can! And remember your creativity is non negotiable with your soul so be sure to give it energy in ways that renew you. How will you choose self care?