Hi Everyone! SO, I have my first Zoom mtg. with a producer soon. It's not a pitch meeting; he's already read my script. I have no clue how to prepare. Does anyone know what type of questions I should be prepared to answer or what topics may come up? Any "wildcard" questions like in job interviews? This is totally brand new to me. Thanks in advance.
Screenwriting : Taking Meetings by Juliana Beckett
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would love to hear how it goes. How did you find/pitch him?
What did he say when setting up the meeting with you, what's the reason for the meeting? Did he read your script and reach out to set up a meeting because he wants to move forward with it? Does he just want to offer his thoughts on the script? Whatever the reasoning, that will play into what you should prepare for.
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I would think about all the types of deals you would be willing to accept. How much for an option, how much for a sale.
He may ask for rewrites. I have had a person ask me to do a rewrite so he could run around and get funding. I didn’t do the rewrite. But it may make sense for you depending on the deal.
Think about what you need. Don’t (in your mind) give them too much power in the relationship. The producer wants to acquire your work. If they see value, others will as well. But your script is the unique item. I am not saying be arrogant (that’s me - I have a copyright on that LOL) but don’t let anyone think they are doing you a favour when they buy your work.
He read it through Stage 32 and gave me notes. Pretty sure the convo will learn toward a rewrite. Thx!!
Congrats! Practice your LogLine, concept and theme, and just be yourself. If he asks about other scripts, just be honest.
Congrats. Keep reminding yourself that you want to make this happen and they want you to make this happen. It should help take the edge off for a while.
Good for you and best of luck!
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Update: The call was moved up a day (be prepared for that!) but it was really fun to speak with the producer and he gave me some career advice, told me about an idea he has for a movie, and said he was interested in reading the next script I write. So you know what I'll be doing over Christmas break!!
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Sounds to me like he's more interested in your writing style and he's trying to get a feel about how cooperative you would be to work with. Stay in touch with him but don't pester him.
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That's a great Christmas present for you Juliana Beckett. Hope your relationship and career flourishes off this experience!
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Juliana, I can't think of any wildcard questions the producer might ask you...but I've got this:
I'm very happy for you, and I wish you all the VERY BEST!
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Congrats! Everyone wants a chance. To me, when a producer "mentions" an idea, my spider-sense rings; the producer is 'fishing" for free writing.
But hey, let's think positive. Now you got the attention of a "Producer". Keep at it.
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Dan's comment might sting, but I'm afraid it's close to how it is...' this line of work if something is too good to be true, it probably ain't...must apply carefulness to avoid faultiness...