Producing : OFFICIAL Lounge Post for RB's Ask Me Anything (April 2025) - Let's Hear Your Questions! by Amanda Toney

I am looking for some guidance with which pitch session(s) to sign up for and with which industry professional to meet. I finished my first revisions of my script and am writing the treatment now.

Should I wait to finish the treatment before I select the pitch session? Should I finish the pitch deck, as well?

As a newbie writer, I want to better understand how and when to approach these pitch sessions.

Any other advice is greatly welcome.

Thanks RB!

Excited for the AMA! Thanks for having it, RB! Are you going to be moderating, Amanda Toney? If so, thanks!

My question is with budgets being cut, should writers focus on writing micro-budget and low-budget scripts instead of writing mid-budget and big-budget scripts? Or should writers be writing a mix of scripts ranging from micro-budget to big-budget?

Really looking forward to this! My question is for screenwriters who already have a portfolio of polished scripts, and are submitting to legitimate contests/fellowships with some modicum of success, what’s the best way to deepen industry relationships without becoming overly transactional or desperate in our outreach? How do we move from 'unknown' to 'trusted'? Especially when we’re not in LA or NYC?

Thanks so much for this AMA Amanda Toney and RB and thanks for all you do! Question: What strategic ideas can you offer to writers who want to gain traction in global market with a global mindset? Thanks in advance!

Looking forward to seeing everyone! Link to join LIVE: https://riverside.fm/studio/rbs-ask-me-anything

Amanda Toney A question for our fearless leader:

In Ben Liebmann’s post on LinkedIn, about Ryan Coogler’s studio deal for ‘Sinners’ there was a response from RJ Abbott of Neighbourhood Cult which stated,

“The smartest studios will evolve into venture firms, backing visionary founders (aka storytellers) with strong creative theses and high-return potential.”

Firstly, what are your thoughts about Abbott’s point of view? And secondly, what do you make of Coogler’s deal, reported as potentially breaking the studio system?

Hi Amanda Toney. I am really excited for this live and to see all of you, besides learning from RB :) My question is: With the growing role of digital platforms in content creation and distribution, how can screenwriters and executives position themselves to thrive? Are there specific skills or approaches that are becoming non-negotiable? Thank youuuu

Hi everyone!

My name is Ryan Wilford—originally from Chicago, now based in Los Angeles. I’m an upcoming screenwriter focused on creating films and stories that explore themes of mental health and personal growth. I’m really looking forward to learning, connecting, and hearing from all of you today.

I have a two-part question:

1. Once you’ve polished your script as a non-represented writer, what’s the first strategic step you recommend taking—especially knowing that most submissions will be considered unsolicited? And with that in mind, do you think it’s more important for a new writer to prioritize finding a manager or agent, or should the focus be on building a portfolio and relationships first?

2. In today’s industry landscape, how realistic is it for an emerging writer without representation to get their script in front of the right people—like producers, managers, or decision-makers? What approaches actually work?

Wondering how I can best get my script in front of decision makers.

I haven't gotten the email invite after registering. Is it starting now?

Patrick "PK" Koepke scroll up through the comments, Patrick. The link is there...

I'm pitching unscripted based on 35 years of my intuitive work. I get great scores on my pitches, even meeting requests and then nothing happens. I've been told it's a hard sell. That's whay Taylor Sheridan was told. Any ideas?

Hello to everyone from Jersey!

Hi Everyone, My name is Joy Mapp-Jobity. I'm a screenwriter, director and film producer from Trinidad and Tobago. I'm looking forward to today's AMA.

Hey all! I'm working up a half-hour, single camera, TV-14, workplace comedy that's set in the mid-1980s. I'm curious about the Pros and Cons of contacting and getting interest from actors and directors before a deal is in place. Does it help or hinder? Thanks!

Question for RB: If you had a crystal ball, what genres do you see heating up in the next 12-24 months?

Thanks for taking the time to do this!

I’m in negotiations for selling a screenplay. One if the selling features is that it is setup for a sequel and possible franchise. Are you aware of any situation where a screenplay was sold BUT writer still keeps the rights for the characters and sequel?

Hi and thanks so much Amanda and Robert- I have a pitch session right here at Stage 32 in the writers room at 4pm today and was wondering what is the best advice you can give for success.

How’s everyone doing? This is Paul Davis, and I’m from Ny, Ny. I have a question? Do a screenwriter gets compensated for sequels and every other film after that if they created the first movie in the franchise?

Excited to hear from RB ahead of Cannes with so many things happening in our industry at the moment. The power is shifting more and more in the hands of creators. The community is what makes us stronger.

Stage 32 offers the opportunity to connect with people looking for comedies, sci-fi, drama, thrillers, horror...where can we find experts interested in Supernatural scripts?

Hi Patrick, I found the link email by searching "stage 32" in my email.

Will age be a deterrent in my getting a rep or a sale of a screenplay? I'm not in my 30's anymore (being coy about my real age), but I've published 11 books, written several screenplays, and believe I'm about as prolific a writer as you youngsters.

Thank you Michael P Clark !

Do you plan on more genre oriented screenwriting workshops?

Thanks for your time, RB.

Q, As a screenwriter, is it a better move to create a pitch deck for a script I've already got, or move on to the next script? I've got a handful of scripts, but no pitch decks. While nice to have, they feel like a huge time commitment and/or expense.

Thank you for doing this btw! Could you talk about how most people who don't already have professional experience or who know someone working in film usually get their foot in the door?

Berlin says hello!

So, how are things in LA?

How’s it going everybody? My name is Paul Davis and I have a question? What’s a great way to sell your script as a freelance screenwriter?

Question: Do you think the expansion of California tax credits will pass? Our group is applying for them. Hope there's the political will to keep the industry in the state as the numbers have been looking bleak.

Is Disney recruiting, looking for writers?

Can the question be repeated before Rich answers

Amanda Toney I'm only hearing RB speak and not hearing any questions.

I've got several award winning animations up on Tubi and others, but need to go the "next step' to get the budgets/names, What would be the best

next step to get into a budget that sustains a business?

I’m currently developing two independent psychological horror feature films set in the 1940s in Argentina. While they are standalone small productions, they form two parts of the same overarching narrative. Given this structure, what advice would you offer regarding distribution strategies for both film festivals and theatrical release? I understand that a two-part format is relatively uncommon in the independent film world, but I see it as a potential strength that could set the project apart.

Great! Always eager to hear from RB! Considering today's climate what is the industry's appetite for comedy series with political and social tone.

Buying and putting something into production are two different things correct? How do you recommend getting my script in front of those who are in the business of making movies instead of just gobbling up scripts?

Is a 32 month option on a feature script normal?

Pease tell RB that we can't hear the questions. We can only hear him.

Can you repeat the question because we can't hear it?

Hello, RB and Amanda. Do you think YouTube is taking a large piece of the entertainment pie? There appears to be a devoted audience shifting to their very entertaining YouTube hosts and channels.

What are the challenges for creatives now and in the future? Have you used AI for projects? What are your thoughts on it?

Heyo~ I’m Banafsheh, originally from Sanandaj, Iran and currently calling Coquitlam, BC, home. I specialize in strange and wonderful stories for strange and wonderful people.

My question is, have you ever known any instances where the screenwriter can make requests of foreign adaptations of their works? Like plot suggestions and things like that? If I ever get an anime adaptation made, for example, I would love to be involved.

I had to log off. It's too frustrating not knowing what RB is talking about because I could not hear any Questions. Please use ZOOM next time, or tell us how to know if our PC can handled this new Riverside program you are using.

Hey, RB! I know you've talked about it 1,000 times, but as the industry keeps evolving, what tips do you have for creatives looking to stand out positively when networking online and in-person? What can they do to position themselves best for building genuine connections?

Hi guys - RB's repeating the questions now - some of you who can't hear me reading them may have Riverside open on 2 tabs, that's causing not being able to hear me. He's repeating them now!

Hello Richard, Amanda!

Here’s my question:

I'm sure you would agree that a series that could possibly save children from getting diseases should be on the air. Our series was nearly picked up by a studio 3 years ago. We need a showrunner. Do you know any? The series must get made; it addresses a real public health water crisis that is not being effectively dealt with, and... the show is an entertaining family drama that has been vetted by Emmy-winning industry readers. Thank you!

Hello! As a writer based in the UK trying to get his first script sold, is it wise to be reaching out to US based industry people as well as the UK, or does my being overseas put people off?

Hey RB, I've been a Stage32 member for many years and am now a double recommended writer. Thank you for what you do. I recently participated in my first consulting call and am going to resubmit to the executive. What Stage32 service do you believe is most valuable for someone like me who is seeking industry representation?

Hi & Hello to all I'm tuning in from Trinidad & Tobago. As many would be acquainted, I'm a Writer-Director & Producer of two short films! Glad to be here at this AMA!

A Question that concerns me is about the different mediums in advertising, that being said..

Q; How are the "public relations" situations, updates and "concerns", (amongst others) with reaching audiences and the use of Tik Tok?

What's going on with Disney? Are they looking for material?

What are the best resources inside Stage 32 to connect with filmmakers who need sound design, any and all types of films, low budget or no budget is fine, just looking to network more. Thanks!

1.) What do you think the strongest certificate Stage 32 offers for screenwriters?

2.) feelings on filming "vertical" , do you think it's a red flag in a sense, or does it help the resume?

Any insight on the indie self-distribution landscape? Is that a viable model more so now than let's say 5 years ago? Is that a plan A, Plan B... Plan D? Thx RB & Amanda :)

Possible to put together an 'indie television series'? Would seem 8-10 hours of content would be inviting to streamers to add and could have cost comparable to an independent film. But rarely see this done. Thoughts?

The AMA should be called: "An unfiltered conversation with RB." Love the candor and the honest, transparent view on how the industry operates. Not everyone's willing to say it how it is. Knowledge is power.

When you get 2 different script coverages with totally different opinions - for instance - "basically script terrible, story need lots of help, thumbs down" VS "script story is great, any issues with the format can be taken care of in development." I believe the one who didn't like it was someone who does script coverage only and the other was a producer who read it to give script coverage. What do you do with that? Coming from production, I know scripts are always in the works and adjust as needed.

Xochi Blymyer Opinion is subjective but try to see if there is a note behind the note. Is there something specific the reviewer didn't like? It's not rare to receive conflicting notes but it goes back to "what are you trying to make/say."

@Lynn Garthwaite everyone's path is unique. I'd recommend leveraging your past published work as a way in. Your experience is incredibly valuable. The writer's paradox: when young, we have the passion but lack the insight; when older, we possess the insight but struggle to recapture the passion.

Linda Bradshaw-Rogers studios are always looking for materials. The question is: are they looking for original materials. In this risk-adverse world, studios are more likely to be pursuing market-tested Intellectual properties...BUT there is always value in original ideas. That's the conundrum. That market-tested IP was also an original project at first that someone had to take a risk on. When it comes to studios specifically, you wouldn't necessarily want to go knock on their doors directly. There's a process. First, get representation. Then secure a producer etc. They really are the ones who should be walking the project through that door.

RB needs to write a book with his aphorisms

Amanda Toney Hi Amanda, I can leave the AMA if it let's someone else get in to the session. I can catch the recording.

Amanda Toney FYI, I tried again, this time logged into the correct type of browser (Edge) for Riverside, I had only that one tab open, and still cannot hear you, I only hear RB. So I logged off and will try to listen to the recording later. But as you know it's a bummer not to be able to participate live and ask questions. Please let us know what the tech specs are required for this Riverside program in order for us to be able to properly hear everyone on our PC. Thank you.

Should screenwriters be making their own pitch decks or outsource?

I am using the Riverside app and I can hear both people. Although, my headphones won't connect. My phone says bluetooth is connected, to Rtiverside app, but sound still comes out of phone speaker for some reason.

Could Stage 32 possibly beef up its producers/executives in the kids TV space? I find there are not many targeted folks suitable for me as a kids TV writer.

Sabrina Mansfield Love that. Adding this to the suggestion box. The Kids & Family TV space is definitely growing and there are tons of opportunities in this segment.

Geoffroy Faugerolas - Curious what RB has to say. Question is - script notes from someone who is not a producer vs script notes from a producer who has made features before.

For an unproduced animation writers, what’s the most likely amount paid for first script sale?

Xochi Blymyer good question to Geoffroy. I would say I'd want script notes from a Producer, but who I'd done my due diligence on and was a match for the project. Just my ten penneth worth.

Thanks so much for sharing RB. I'm from the Caribbean and I'm in pre-production for a movie based on a screenplay that made it to the semifinals of a respected Hollywood screenwriting contest. My fellow producers and I have a 25-minute movie demo based on 4 scenes in the movie (my proof of concept). We're currently working on building an online and offline following to show potential investors that there's a demand for the movie. In terms of distributors, how do I go about connecting with them? I'm looking at distributors in countries with large Caribbean diaspora populations (e.g. the US, UK, Canada).

Producers can be very market-oriented. They aren't necessarily looking at the craft like a reader would do. They each have their respective specialty, expertise and skills. Take each comment for what it's worth.

Thank You, RB!

Great to see you here, RB! I hope I'm not too late.Thanks so much for spreading your knowledge and experience. What are your thoughts on new media and the idea that short form content creators on TikTok and Youtube are the next wave of entertainment? The way the industry has been going the last couple of years with strikes and a pandemic, how do you see the movie industry adapting in the next decade? Or can it even adapt and is it more likely to disappear?

Hi everyone, we're working on editing the video - there were some audio issues for some being able to hear me so we are editing it today and it will be live in the education library for everyone to pick up, so stay tuned for it! https://www.stage32.com/education/c/education-webinars

Thanks for letting us know, Amanda Toney!