Coffee & Content: From iPhones to IP Protection

Coffee & Content: From iPhones to IP Protection

Coffee & Content: From iPhones to IP Protection

Happy Sunday, Creative Army!

Let’s kick things off with a huge shoutout to everyone who has already jumped into this month’s Introduce Yourself Weekend. Thousands of creatives from around the world are connecting, sharing their stories, and building relationships that will lead to collaborations, opportunities, and lifelong friendships.

If you haven’t yet made your introduction, you’ve still got time! Head over to the Introduce Yourself Lounge and say hello before the weekend wraps. Be bold. Introduce yourself. The next great opportunity could be one connection away.

This week’s featured video is a deep dive into the NIGHTMARISH production of 28 Years Later from the team at Frame Voyager. After nearly two decades of false starts, delays, and creative stops and starts, 28 Years Later finally clawed its way out of development hell. Originally pitched as 28 Months Later, the project was sidelined for years, everything from underwhelming box office returns to complicated rights issues to creative disinterest from Danny Boyle and Alex Garland. Even with flickers of interest (like Cillian Murphy voicing support back in 2019), the spark didn’t fully catch until 2023. By 2024, they weren’t just back, they were rebooting the franchise with a brand-new trilogy. But here’s what really caught my eye…

Boyle and cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle made a bold return to the franchise’s raw aesthetic. They shot a huge portion of the film on iPhone 15 Pros, using anamorphic lenses and custom rigs to recreate that gritty handheld feel that made the original so iconic. They went even further: 20 iPhones rigged for bullet time, infrared cameras, and lo-fi, indie-style experimentation, all within a major studio production. That’s the kind of creative risk that reminds us it’s not about the gear, it’s about the vision.

Speaking of sequels…

During my most recent Ask Me Anything event, a member asked me a great question: “If my script becomes a sequel and I don’t write it, can I still get paid on it?”

Here’s the deal: if you’re not writing the sequel, you’ll likely be in line for some kind of producing credit. Whether that ends up being Executive Producer or Associate Producer, it all comes down to what was negotiated when the original deal was made.

I’ll give you an example. The first script I ever sold, one I always thought of as a standalone, was bought by a production company that immediately said, “We love this because we see two or three sequels in it.” That caught me completely off guard. But I had a smart entertainment attorney by my side, and we made sure the contract included language to protect me when it came to sequels, spin-offs, and even other mediums like podcasts or stage plays.

Bottom line? A damn good attorney is worth their weight in gold. Sometimes, even more valuable than a manager or an agent. That’s the takeaway I want you to hold onto this week, whether you’re working on your next short film, negotiating your first option, or prepping for a pitch, it’s your job to protect your creative future. And knowing what to negotiate for from day one could make all the difference later.

Now I want to hear from you, have you ever thought about how your story might continue beyond the current script? Have you built in any protections for sequels, spin-offs, or other formats? Let’s talk about it in the comments.

As always, we love sharing inspiration, tools, and insights that help fuel your creative fire. Know someone who would love this content? Share it with them. And don’t forget to tag us (@Stage32) if you do. You can keep up with everything we’re doing on the Stage 32 YouTube and by following me on Instagram and X: @rbwalksintoabar.

Wishing you a happy, healthy, and creative Sunday.

Cheers,

RB

Frame Voyager | NIGHTMARISH Production of 28 Years Later

Coffee  Content From iPhones to IP Protection

RBWalksIntoABar | If My Script Becomes a Sequel & I Don't Write It, Can I Get Paid On It?

Coffee  Content From iPhones to IP Protection

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About the Author

Richard "RB" Botto

Richard "RB" Botto

Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist

Richard "RB" Botto has created the online platform and marketplace designed to democratize the entertainment industry, Stage 32. By leveling the playing field for all film, television and digital content creators and professionals worldwide, Stage 32 provides networking and training opportunities as...

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14 Comments on Richard RB's Article

Darren Ong
Agent, Author, Director, Manager, Screenwriter, Voice Actor, Actor, Business Affairs Consultant
RB could you introduce me to that smart entertainment attorney please, I am in your shoes entirely now and need legal IP support; WhatsApp is best as I am based in Singapore, Asia - +6586111394 or if you can give me your cell number, I can be proactive to WhatsApp you then
4 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
We have dozens who teach for us, Darren Stephens. You could look into them. Also highly recommend our friends at Ramo Law.
3 days ago
Kat Spencer
Author, Musician, Editor, Story Analyst
Hi RB! How is it Wednesday? Forgive my tardiness. To answer your question, no, actually, I have never given that any thought. I suppose when writing my stories, I never even anticipated that I would have readers. Haha. I'm still thinking about writing a sequel to my first one. It sounds like I have a lot to learn! Hope you're having a great week!
4 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
You too, Kat Spencer!
3 days ago
Lauren Hackney
Screenwriter, Author
This is a topic I have questions on please... I have written three scripts in a feature film series. What happens if only the first is optioned and the director and producers want the story to go in a different direction to how I've written the second and third sequels? Is it also appealing to pitch so many sequels in a row or should I focus on the first? Sorry to ask but seeing as though the topic is sequels.... Thanks RB! You're the best!
6 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
And you will, Lauren Hackney. I have no doubt.
4 days ago
Lauren Hackney
Screenwriter, Author
Thank you so much Richard "RB" Botto  for all that info - let's hope one day I can find out! 
5 days ago
Anna Kiss
Author, Screenwriter
Hi RB, I really connected with today’s blog post—it hit home in a big way. It’s reassuring to know I’m not the only one who believes this: never put your creative work out into the world until the legal foundation is rock solid. In my view, legal groundwork is where the real business risk lies in the film industry. Sadly, a lot of writers don’t fully grasp that. Same goes for publishing. Most authors don’t even realize that in a standard 16-page publishing contract, 8–10 pages are all about the nitty-gritty of what rights they’re handing over. And often, what’s not in the contract is even more important than what is. Of course, publishers aren’t out to trick writers. They just understand a basic truth that you summed up so perfectly: "A damn good attorney is worth their weight in gold. Sometimes, even more valuable than a manager or an agent." I had to learn that the hard way myself when I released my first book. So maybe now it makes more sense why I’m so cautious when it comes to sharing any of my film projects publicly. Looks like today’s a day for looking back, so let me tell a story—maybe there’s a lesson in it for someone else, too. As I was watching the video you shared, I remembered the shoot for the very first commercial I ever produced. It was also the first job my tiny media startup ever landed. We got the gig thanks to a super creative concept—and suddenly, this little company of ours was producing a commercial for a full campaign. It was my first time as a producer. The problem? We only developed the concept. We left the technical execution to the shoot itself, thinking, Hey, we hired a cinematographer from the national film studio—he’ll know what to do! Well… optimism is great, but maybe not your best friend as a producer. The big idea was to shoot the whole commercial in one single shot—a full 360-degree camera move in under 15 seconds. Sounds easy today with digital tech, but back then we were living very much in the analog world. Literally. The crew rigged up a homemade setup using metal rods, glue, and a crank mechanism to rotate the camera. It was inventive—but also required an extra day in the studio with all the added tech, and we had budgeted that money for buying our first camera. Not for reshoots. I’m pretty sure I got my first gray hairs during that shoot—and I was only just over 20. But I also got a lesson that’s stayed with me ever since: never take on a project unless you have the means to actually execute it—both technically and financially. Because creativity is great, but if it only exists in dreamland, it’s not going to turn into a film. That’s the reality. (Thanks to anyone who made it through this long post.
7 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Means so very much to me, Anna T. Kiss. Thanks for letting me know!
4 days ago
Anna Kiss
Author, Screenwriter
@Richard "RB" Botto Thank you, RB. Your great ideas inspired me.
5 days ago
Debbie Elicksen
Marketing/PR, Content Creator, Unit Publicist, Author, Host/Presenter
I love this. Maybe we should pull some old concepts out of the dusty closet and see if they could be repurposed. Whether iPhone/Android, or Panasonic film camera -- there are so many options to promote even more creative license. What I get from this piece is also "persistance." Nothing is dead until you (the creator) says it's dead.
5 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Love every word, Debbie Elicksen. Or as I like to say, control what you can control and let the rest go. And what we can control is usually much more than we think.
4 days ago
Film Budget
Producer, Business Affairs Consultant, Creative Executive, Filmmaker, Financier, Line Producer, Production Manager
Fascinating behind the scenes. Great example of how the technology today puts our careers in our hands to create with even the simplest of devices. Likewise, fundamental insight on screenwriter rights and legal representation. An attorney is critical. I won't work with a writer without one, there are just too many perils and opportunities for misunderstandings. Valid point that it is all in the deal negotiated. Additionally, WGA protects writers for sequels, prequels, etc., however many are not members venturing into their first production. "Always consult an attorney". Full stop.
6 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
That "Full stop" is everything, Jack. Glad you rang in here. Your experience and expertise speaks volumes. Everyone lurking should take heed.
5 days ago
Lauren Hackney
Screenwriter, Author
Thank you for this information Film Budget. Does it matter where you source your attorney from? I'm in Brisbane Australia and I'm assuming the attorney I have in my city would do the same as one in the US? Sorry to be so 'green' but I've never had this conversation before.
6 days ago
Love it!
6 days ago
Thank you!
6 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Have a great Sunday, Wendy Kay!
6 days ago
Sebastian Smeureanu
Screenwriter, Director, Producer, Acting Teacher, Creative Executive
super insight RB into both the legal but also the creative aspects of our projects. Thank you. One of my projects is a novel adaptation (first of three novels) - and, although I'm focusing on the feature scrip to be the best it can be on its own, I'm obviously also thinking of the other two books and/or where it would go - the first book's ending was written 'with an open door' so speak. BUT I am also reminded that a very knowledgeable person I did a Stage32 lab with advised that in today's market, you gotta have the feature version, the series version, the squirrel version, etc etc. haha why? exactly because of this 'transmedia' ecosystem mind shift you mention in the video - that stories could take so many forms of distribution! in fact, I pick my projects with the express mission of creating eco-systems (podcasts, minidocs, etc., even educational material for some of them) - boy, will I need a great entertainment attorney! lol I also feel this is a great time for the indie-to-franchise model to take the lead - if it's not already doing so.
6 days ago
Sandra Isabel Correia
Screenwriter, Executive, Director
I’m not usually a fan of horror, but I adore the fantastic and the fantastical, but I completely fell for 28 Years Later. Sometimes it’s not about the genre, but the film itself that truly stands out. I’m a huge Jodie Comer fan (one day she’ll bring my stories to life on screen, that’s the dream, and hey, dreams do come true!:))) It was through that I discovered 28YL, and I absolutely loved it. Thanks so much RB for sharing the video. Your advice really resonated with me, RB. It’s so important to safeguard our creative work, especially with the help of attorneys who understand the nuances of the industry. I’m not quite there yet, I’ve written a feature and directed a short film I scripted as a proof of concept, but when the time comes, I want to be fully protected across every potential adaptation or evolution of my script. Thank you again for being always advising us RB. Have a great Sunday sunshine:)))
6 days ago
Sandra Isabel Correia
Screenwriter, Executive, Director
It is RB and how great that’s it! My pleasure, my friend. Thank you also :))
6 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
It's funny how great character work and writers who can hold a mirror to the audience transcends genre, isn't it? Thanks for commenting, Sandra Isabel Correia
6 days ago
Harri-Pekka Virkki
Author, Stunt Performer
I will definitely watch ”28 Years Later” though I’m not a big fan of horror movies. Shooting with Iphones: thats creative. If there is a making of please let know! Have a wonderful IYW! And thanks again RB!
6 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
You too, my friend. Appreciate the contributions as always.
6 days ago
João Janeira Nobre
Camera Operator, Videographer, Editor, Drone Operator, Sound Mixer
I understand that there will be risks, but with a good lawyer by your side, projects become safer with future sequences. Thank you for sharing, RB!
6 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Have all flanks covered, John January Noble. Only way to be.
6 days ago
Tom Stohlgren
Author, Researcher, Screenwriter
Zombie movies have never impressed me because thoughtless, vengeful creatures are the opposite of the lively characters I enjoy writing. In my view, some film concepts deserve expansions, sequels, and “new life,” while some are better left for dead. I like what RB had to say about writers protecting themselves for sequels. My literary manager, who found me on Stage 32, has specific language in option agreements to protect my IP. It’s always wise to seek professional help. Thanks for posting, RB.
6 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Good on you and your manager, Tom Stohlgren. Sounds like you have a winner there.
6 days ago
Daniel Fuentes
Actor, Screenwriter, Voice Actor
Great advice RB! I’ve been working with an A-Lister on packaging my screenplay for the last 6 months . Having an experienced attorney on your side is a life saver! We are near the completion of a sale which is very exciting and scary at the same time. It’s been a great learning experience, but I wish I knew at the start that everyone .. including very powerful execs at CAA expected “me” to handle the complete pitch, financials including budget and projections . Have a great Sunday !
6 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
More and more, the "powers that be" want everyone else to do the heavy lifting, Daniel Perry Fuentes. That's why I wanted to get that video out there. Understanding the landscape is more than half the battle these days. But I'm thrilled to hear you're closing in on the finish line and about to break the tape. Huge congratulations. Now turn that "scary" into exhilarating. You've earned it!
6 days ago
Maurice Vaughan
Screenwriter
Congratulations on working with an A-Lister on packaging your screenplay and getting close to a sale, Daniel!
6 days ago
Maurice Vaughan
Screenwriter
Good morning, RB. Introduce Yourself Weekend has been incredible like always. Thanks for sharing the videos. I like to hear about movies that clawed their way out of development hell. It makes me appreciate and enjoy the movies more, and it encourages me to keep pushing my projects instead of giving up on them. Great video about getting paid for sequels, spin-odds, etc. I’ve thought about how my story might continue beyond the first script. I mention in my pitch decks, treatments, etc. that the movies have potential to be sequels, TV shows, games, and so on. “Have you built in any protections for sequels, spin-offs, or other formats?” I haven’t, but after watching your video, I'll make sure the language is in the contract.
6 days ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
No project is a straight road, Maurice Vaughan. And some have a much long and winding road than others. But, I agree, the fact that these crossed the finish line serves as inspiration and the importance of embracing the long game.
6 days ago
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