Screenwriting : Trying to network by Matthew Olson

Hi, Matthew Olson. Stage 32 has a blog that'll help you connect with creatives and industry professionals all over the world. Producers, directors, writers, actors, animators, and more. www.stage32.com/blog/the-importance-of-community-and-collaboration-in-th...

Welcome!

I think a really good way to network is to meet filmmakers who can turn your script into a proof of concept that way you have a better chance of raising the money to turn your script into a feature film. Selling your script without an agent (even with one), or having someone want to fund the whole thing without a POC is a lot harder. We live in a visual world so having something you can submit to festivals (POC) is another advantage because if someone sees it and then they learn your script is also in the festival, that's a nice advancement on your part. I shot a POC for my film The Luring and shopped that around to investors and it was the only thing they wanted to see. I hope that helps.

Christopher Wells Did The Luring get funding based on your POC?

Can you assists in communicating with a filmmaker, I have a big project on the line I need full help on achieving it

Chris I would to share my goals as a screenwriter and would love to chat with you about future projects.

Thanks for the comment ☺️☺️

Michael David the POC was a major factor but so were my short films so at least they knew I could complete a project and I had more than one at the time.. People want to see what will the film look like so we shot the first scene which ends with a big cliff hanger. If you watch the film the opening scene is what we shot and when the title comes up, that's where we ended the POC. When raising money there are of course other factors, but having a POC is in my opinion the best way to move a project forward.

Christopher Wells Really cool and good to know. I'd love to watch it. Let me know how I can.

Hey Matthew Olson Welcome to the screenwriting community! Your drive to connect with industry-level producers shows great ambition, and networking is absolutely crucial for building a screenwriting career.

Before reaching out to producers, here are some strategic considerations:

Foundation First:

Complete, polished scripts - Producers want to see finished work, not concepts

Professional formatting and error-free writing

Strong loglines that immediately communicate your story's appeal

Query letters that are concise, professional, and compelling

Strategic Networking Approaches:

Stage 32's pitch sessions - Structured opportunities to present directly to producers

Industry events and festivals - Both virtual and in-person networking

Screenwriting competitions - Winners often get producer attention

Writing groups and organizations - Building relationships with fellow writers who may have connections

What Producers Look For:

Market-ready material with clear commercial appeal

Writers who understand the business side of filmmaking

Professional presentation and communication

Unique voices with compelling stories to tell

Stage 32 Resources for You:

Browse our Script Services to connect with producers seeking new material

Join relevant Lounges to network with other writers and industry professionals

Attend webinars on networking and industry best practices

Quality connections take time to build. Focus on creating exceptional work first, then strategic networking becomes much more effective.