Coffee & Content: The Future of Film is Now!

Coffee & Content: The Future of Film is Now!

Coffee & Content: The Future of Film is Now!

Richard "RB" Botto
Richard "RB" Botto
2 months ago

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.

First up, let’s talk about feature film innovation. This week’s Coffee & Content spotlight is Frame Voyager’s new video essay: SINNERS: The INSANE IMAX & Ultra Panavision Production. This project is wild in the best way possible. Sinners is the first production ever to use both IMAX and Ultra Panavision formats simultaneously. The video breaks down Ryan Coogler’s unconventional journey to the director’s chair, the insane bidding war behind the scenes, and how this film became an intensely personal story brought to life through cutting-edge tech, bold cinematography, and sheer creative ambition. From budget hurdles to Coogler putting his own money on the line to push the project forward, to the debut of a brand-new twinning tech called HALO, this video is packed with takeaways.

Now let’s talk about something you all keep asking me: Can a first-time screenwriter with no representation and just a couple of industry contacts really sell a spec for $1.5 million? Yes. It happened. As you’ve probably seen in the trades, the spec market is on fire. Global production is thriving. And more execs than ever are on the hunt for original material. I talk about this more in my video here. So the question becomes: How can YOU be the next one to break in?

This Wednesday, I’m going live for a FREE Ask Me Anything webcast.

We’re going to break down the current state of the industry; what’s working, what’s shifting, and what that means for your career. You’ll have the chance to ask me anything about your craft, your trajectory, or the challenges you’re navigating. Whether you’re a screenwriter, filmmaker, actor, producer, or post-production wizard, this conversation will have something for you.

Register for the free webcast here!

2025 has already been a hell of a rid,e and there’s a lot for us to talk about.

So let me hear from you:

What excites you most about movies like Sinners and the evolving trends we’re seeing in the feature film space? Is it the scale? The technology? The storytelling? Drop your thoughts in the comments below. I want to hear what’s lighting your fire right now!

As always, here at Stage 32, we love to share stories and knowledge with our fellow film fans. Know someone who would love this content? Share it with them. You can keep up with all of our content by subscribing to the Stage 32 YouTube. And for more inspiration, motivation, and industry deep dives, follow me on Instagram and X: @rbwalksintoabar.

Wishing you a very happy, healthy, and creative Sunday.

Cheers,

RB

Film Voyager| SINNERS: The INSANE IMAX & Ultra Panavision Production

Coffee  Content The Future of Film is Now

RBWalksIntoABar | How Did A Writer Who Knew No One In Hollywood Sell A Script For 1.5 Million?

Coffee  Content The Future of Film is Now

Let's hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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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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12 Comments on Richard RB's Article

Mark Kelly
Screenwriter
RB, you have the meats!
a month ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
I have never heard that one before ;)
a month ago
Alexandra Stevens
Actor, Acting Teacher
Thank you again RB for such an informative article. I learn something new about the industry every time which energises me. I wasn't aware of the difference between an Imax film camera and Ultra Panavision 70 and now I do. I'm so inspired and respectful of Coogler's journey and creative process. I look forward to more discussions about how technological advancements will continue to shape the future of film.
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
You're so very welcome, Alexandra Stevens. Always love hearing when C&C hits the mark.
2 months ago
Sandra Isabel Correia
Screenwriter, Executive
This was such an insightful read, RB. Thank you for sharing! As a screenwriter, I’m always fascinated by the evolving landscape of filmmaking, and Sinners sounds like a bold, exciting step forward. The combination of IMAX and Ultra Panavision is such a powerful choice for storytelling, and it’s inspiring to see filmmakers embracing new technology to push creative boundaries. I also really appreciated the discussion on the spec market. It’s encouraging to hear that original material still has a place in the industry, especially when so many writers wonder whether their ideas will find the right platform. The path for screenwriters is constantly shifting, and conversations like this help us navigate the changes with more clarity and optimism. I am excited for your AMA this week. Thanks for making time for us!
2 months ago
Sandra Isabel Correia
Screenwriter, Executive
Thank you RB :)) Always appreciate your comments and insights. 
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
The world is wide open, which means your mind has to be wide open as well, Sandra Isabel Correia. Very smart approach.
2 months ago
Leonardo Ramirez
Screenwriter, Author, Voice Actor
Couldn't agree more in that this is not a "look at me" business. And to that I would add, "Why would you want that anyway?" It took 10 years of cultivating a relationship with a local animation company and last week, he added me to their company's list of voiceover artists. Collaboration is fun and fulfilling. I want the best for them and vice versa. Make it genuine and it shows. Thanks as always RB. Great post!
2 months ago
Leonardo Ramirez
Screenwriter, Author, Voice Actor
Thanks so much Richard "RB" Botto. Enjoying the journey!
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Love hearing that, Leonardo Ramirez. Perfect illustration of embracing a "brick by brick" approach to building a career. Congrats on getting added to that list and, even more so, for having the patience and perseverance necessary to make it happen.
2 months ago
Tom Stohlgren
Author, Researcher, Screenwriter
I will always root for the creator of “Fruitvale Station” and other creatives from my hometown of Oakland. I respect Ryan Coogler on many levels: original storytelling, reliance on community, and command of the latest cinema technology. But his insistence on “ownership” puts him a class by himself. He walks the talk. I can’t wait to see “Sinners.” Likewise, I agree with R.B. that “this is a relationship business.” I need to build as many relationships as often as I do stories.
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
And we'll see what that leads to, David Appleby.
2 months ago
David Appleby
Screenwriter
Coogler stated that the deeply personal nature of the movie drove him to insist on ownership - not just for him, but for his heritage. He also said it was a one-off in that regard, but Pandora's Box ...
2 months ago
Harri-Pekka Virkki
Author, Stunt Performer
Thanks RB! So true! The way behave online should reflect what kind of person you are. Listening and being interested in other people’s goals helps you find people you want to work with and who might want work with you.. Have a wonderful IYW.
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
It's always incredible to me that people treat their online life different than "real" life, Harri-Pekka Virkki. They're all one in the same. The most successful people understand this fully.
2 months ago
Suzanne Bronson
Actor, Crafty, Production Assistant, Stage Manager, Voice Artist, Host/Presenter
Sinners is has already had a great opening weekend. I think it was really smart to use both IMAX and Panavision. An IMAX ticket is so much more and has less seats than a regular ticket so offering the movie in both formats is a great ploy to get people back in theaters. I have had a great IYW. We had a very fun and successful Phoenix in person meetup on Thursday, with a mix of regulars and newcomers. The weather was good to us and everyone is looking forward to next months. Connections keep getting made on this site and in person in all entertainment disciplines. Thank you RB for your platform. Every meetup I get a person that says, they had no idea how to get in touch with other filmmakers in the Valley. I hope it continues to grow and you'll soon be seeing awesome things coming out of Arizona.
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Agree fully on the SINNERS strategy. Smart thinking and execution. You simply get it, Suzanne Bronson. Not only about the importance of relationship building and networking, but the importance of forging a community and a support system. Couldn't be more grateful for everything you bring here day after day and for being such an advocate for this platform. Entirely grateful for all the kind words and support.
2 months ago
Suzanne Bronson
Actor, Crafty, Production Assistant, Stage Manager, Voice Artist, Host/Presenter
I know I missed the apostrophe after month's. Don't @ me. lol
2 months ago
Film Budget
Producer, Business Affairs Consultant, Creative Executive, Filmmaker, Financier, Line Producer, Production Manager
Brilliant advice for a change...(lol, just kidding...always Amazing.) Great examples and guidance. This business is about Mavericks. It's good to know the rules, the ones whom succeed don't research and follow. They Maverick. Grateful for @RB and @Stage32. Where were you when I was slogging the trenches! (and still am! Never stop.) \o/
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Ah, I love how you framed that...the Mavericks. They seem to find a way, no? And no application required. As Nike says "Just do it." Too many wait for permission. Great stuff, Jack Binder.
2 months ago
Film Budget
Producer, Business Affairs Consultant, Creative Executive, Filmmaker, Financier, Line Producer, Production Manager
Learn, study, research, know the rules...then slaughter them! No permission required. 
2 months ago
Thank you, Richard RB
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Absolutely, Charmane Wedderburn!
2 months ago
David Appleby
Screenwriter
Hey RB. I am grateful for your generosity in connecting with me on Threads! You've been a great help in motivating me to bring my ideas to the audience here at Stage 32. Confession: I’m one of those people who can dive into deep, energizing conversations with just about anyone - even large groups. But when it comes to networking in the conventional sense, I’m a bit of a mess. I tend to get so caught up in the maelstrom of ideas in my head that I forget to follow up, reach out, or (let’s be honest) even remember names. It’s not disinterest - it’s just how my brain’s wired. Still, I know relationships are everything in this industry, and I’m trying to build better habits around that. As you are aware, I have an oven-ready spec script - "Vicarage Road" - a British cybercrime / action feature, which I have uploaded to the site, that is crying out for representation (ok, it's me currently doing the crying
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
I can completely understand the challenge with remembering to follow up or follow through. Took me a while to get that down as well. But systems and discipline go a long way, David Appleby. Blocking out time, committing to the cause and understanding that it is a huge part of my job got me there.
2 months ago
David Appleby
Screenwriter
... Anyone up for a bidding war? :-) Cheers, David
2 months ago
Maurice Vaughan
Screenwriter
Good morning, RB. I've been catching up with people and meeting new members during Introduce Yourself Weekend. Sinners is one of my most anticipated movies of the year. I saved the first video to watch later because I want to go into the movie knowing as little as possible. You talk about networking in your video. Networking is huge in a creative's career! It can't be a halfhearted thing or an afterthought. What excites me most about movies like Sinners and the evolving trends we’re seeing in the feature film space is the storytelling/unique concepts. I'm looking forward to your AMA!
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Good on you for getting your relationship building and networking on this weekend, Maurice Vaughan! Very much looking forward to the AMA as well. I'll see you there.
2 months ago
Love it!
2 months ago
Richard RB Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Thanks, Wendy Kay!
2 months ago
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