As I write this, there is a great deal of uncertainty about the near-term future of film and TV production. What is certain is that for at least the next year, productions will have to adjust. What does this mean for screenwriters?
- Strong scripts with limited sets and cast will be more in demand than ever before. Often these have been the province of lower-budget productions, but now the studios will be looking for these more than ever before;
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The writers (and directors) who can find innovative ways to make those kinds of scripts look and feel bigger than they are will have the advantage. For instance, I'm working on a script that can integrate stock footage to broaden its visual appeal.
- With streaming services like Netflix, Disney +, Hulu, etc. all trying to attract as many subscribers as possible, the writer with projects that have some kind of novel element will have the advantage. A merely competent traditional script won't stand out.
- The writer who is most flexible will prevail. New formats will emerge. The biggest prizes will go to those who create them, but there will also be a market for skilled writers who are able to adapt to formats innovated by others.
- As always, you're selling yourself as well as your material. If you're easy to work with, willing to listen, and deliver on time, you'll be in the top 25% on that basis alone.
We are all experiencing that ancient Chinese curse, "May you live in interesting times." It's not easy, but it's up to us to make the most of the challenges.
