Every Screenwriter Should Think Like a Producer

Every screenwriter dreams of seeing their words come to life on the screen. However, the journey from script to screen can be challenging. This is where thinking like a producer becomes invaluable for screenwriters.

Producers are the bridge between the creative idea and the final product, and they constantly juggle creative, financial, and logistical considerations. By thinking like a producer, screenwriters can not only enhance the appeal of their scripts but can also navigate the complexities of the film.

Be Aware of the Marketability of Your Screenplay

Thinking like a producer means being aware of the marketability of your screenplay. A producer evaluates a script not just for its artistic merit but also for its potential to attract an audience and generate revenue. This involves understanding current market trends, audience preferences, and the competitive landscape. Though a screenwriter should always write what interests them, understanding how a producer would think about their script can help the writer understand the audience and marketability of their screenplay.

Be an Expert in Budgeting and Resource Management

Producers are experts in budgeting and resource management, skills that are incredibly beneficial for screenwriters to develop. By understanding the costs associated with different elements of film production, screenwriters can make informed decisions about the scenes they write, the number of locations they choose, and the complexity of their action sequences. This doesn't mean compromising creativity but rather adapting it in a way that respects the practicalities of film production. A screenplay that is mindful of budget constraints is more attractive to producers because it demonstrates that the writer is not only talented but also pragmatic and collaborative.

Be a Problem-Solver

Producers are the ultimate problem-solvers, often having to think on their feet to overcome the myriad of issues that can arise during film production. By thinking like a producer, screenwriters can develop a proactive approach to potential challenges their scripts might present. This might involve being flexible with certain elements of the script to accommodate production realities or being able to offer creative solutions when logistical issues threaten to derail a scene. The ability to anticipate and adapt to such challenges not only makes a screenwriter more valuable but also fosters a spirit of teamwork and resilience.

In essence, every screenwriter should consider adopting a producer's perspective as they craft their stories. This approach not only enhances the screenplay's chances of success but also prepares screenwriters for the collaborative and multifaceted nature of filmmaking. By thinking like a producer, screenwriters can contribute more effectively to the film's journey from script to screen, ensuring their creative vision is realized in a way that is both artistically fulfilling and commercially successful.

Tyler is seasoned film and media professional with over 20 years of diverse experience, specializing in production management and creative direction, with a rich portfolio spanning music videos, films, and documentaries, and a global network from the US to Sweden. Reach him on his website, LinkedIn, and X, and gain access to his free filmmaking templates when you sign up for his newsletter here.