The outbreak of COVID-19 has led to unprecedented changes in the entertainment industry, particularly in screenwriting. With social distancing measures in place, filmmakers have been forced to adapt to a new normal where virtual collaboration, remote meetings, and online pitch sessions are the new norm.
Navigating this changing landscape can be daunting, but it’s essential to be proactive and embrace the changes that are occurring. Here are some tips for adapting to the new normal of screenwriting:
1. Embrace Virtual Collaboration
With in-person meetings and table reads no longer possible, virtual collaboration is crucial. Platforms like Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, and Slack have become essential tools for screenwriters to stay in touch with producers, directors, and their writing teams.
Virtual collaboration allows screenwriters to share ideas, scripts, and feedback in real-time. To make the most of this new normal, it’s essential to ensure that you have a robust internet connection, a good camera, and microphone to avoid disruptions and distractions.
2. Focus on Pivoting Your Storylines
Screenwriters must pivot and change storylines to adapt to the pandemic. With the world’s current state, we see more and more scripts drawing inspiration from the current world changes. Writing pandemic-specific stories in film or television may be something you should invest in doing. Producing films that relate to quarantine, disaster or sticking together through all of it can help you remain relevant and create engaging screenplays.
3. Attend Virtual Pitch Sessions
With most film festivals and industry events going virtual, screenwriters must learn how to adapt to this new normal by participating in virtual pitch sessions. While virtual pitch sessions may be intimidating for some, they offer an excellent opportunity to showcase your screenwriting skills and get feedback from industry experts.
Platforms like Virtual Pitch Fest and Stage 32 have quickly become essential tools for screenwriters looking to attend virtual pitch sessions. You need to research the events and find out what they are looking for to make sure you have a good pitch handy.
4. Network Virtually
Networking is an essential aspect of the screenwriting industry, and it’s now more critical than ever to engage in virtual networking. Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter offer an excellent opportunity to connect with other writers, producers, and directors.
In addition to virtual networking, you can look into webinars or mentorship programs held by institutions in the field. Connecting with fellow professionals in your field is key to staying ahead of the game.
5. Keep Writing & Stay Informed
Finally, the most important thing is to remain optimistic, keep writing and stay informed. Keep up-to-date with the latest trends in the industry, anticipate and brace for challenges, and find an excellent support system. Read blogs, attend virtual summit interviews, and adapt your skills to stay successful.
In conclusion, navigating the changing landscape of screenwriting requires screenwriters to be proactive and adaptable. Embrace virtual collaboration, pivot your storylines to remain relevant, attend virtual pitch sessions, network virtually, keep informed, and keep writing to stay ahead of the game. Adapting to the new normal of screenwriting will ultimately require hard work and determination, but the opportunities are endless.