Producer Eric Jarboe shares insider tips on what producers truly want in Christmas scripts. He explains how to craft emotionally engaging characters and avoid clichés. Use his advice to make your screenplay irresistible to decision-makers. In this episode, successful producer Eric Jarboe, co-founder of Happy Accidents and producer of over 130 films, reveals exactly what producers want. He breaks down the value of an emotionally resonant Christmas theme. Moreover, he highlights the need for compelling characters with clear objectives. Every story benefits from meaningful transformations that delight audiences. Watch the YouTube interview here: https://youtu.be/ZCTbL8zePao For all the show notes, an action checklist and transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/37-what-makes-producers-say-yes/
Hallmark screenwriter Nina Weinman shares how to craft email queries that grab attention and pitch Christmas scripts that stand out. Plus, learn how to build a diverse script portfolio, why targeted producer outreach beats contests, and how persistence and self-advocacy can accelerate your screenwriting success. Tune in to make your Christmas script stand out! Check out the YouTube interview here: : https://youtu.be/JIl_FqzZPV8
Want to break into the Christmas movie market? Writer-Director-Producer Emily Ting shares how to sell your holiday script, what producers want, and why feel-good, original ideas stand out. The Christmas movie market is hotter than ever. Hallmark, Netflix, and otherer platforms are constantly looking for fresh, heartwarming scripts. But what does it really take to sell one? Award-winning writer, director, and producer Emily Ting shares her path from writing a passion project to landing a deal with Hallmark. In this episode, you'll learn why original ideas matter, how to reach producers directly, and why persistence can pay off—even if your script sits for years. For the show notes and an action checklist – go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/35-want-to-sell-your-holiday-script-start-here/ For the YouTube interview - go here: https://youtu.be/ygpCPH68ZMg
Director Jason Bourque explores how actors are becoming the new gatekeepers—and how writers can pitch smarter, write bolder, and unlock new paths into the Christmas movie market. For an action checklist, the show notes and a full transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/34-are-actors-the-new-gatekeepers-for-writers/
Director-Producer Colin Theys reveals why leaning too heavily on traditional Christmas tropes can make your script seem stale. He shares practical tips to elevate your storytelling. For an action checklist, the show-notes and the full transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/33-are-holiday-tropes-ruining-your-story/ Check out the YouTube interview here: https://youtu.be/qhE3EJsZ8m0
How Do Producers Instantly Spot an Amateur Script? Award-winning producer Robyn Wiener of Synergy Cinema discusses what are the biggest red flags that make producers reject scripts instantly. Learn how to avoid amateur mistakes, refine your storytelling, and turn familiar formulas into fresh, compelling screenplays that stand out in a competitive market. For an action checklist, the show notes and the full transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/32-how-do-producers-instantly-spot-an-amateur-script/ Check out the YouTube version: YouTube: https://youtu.be/uSQRs6_O6lU
Struggling to sell your 🎄 script? Screenwriter Gary Goldstein reveals what producers really want—and the biggest mistakes that keep writers from getting a deal! 🎬✨ In this episode, Gary discusses the evolving landscape of holiday movies, the balance between established tropes and originality, and the writing process from pitch to production. Gary shares networking strategies for aspiring writers and emphasizes the importance of drawing from personal experiences to enrich storytelling. He also reflects on his recent novels and how diverse writing experiences enhance his work, providing valuable insights for anyone interested in the holiday film genre. For an action checklist, show-notes and a full transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/31-why-wont-christmas-producers-buy-your-script/
Discover why targeting distributors, not just producers, can expand your opportunities to sell your Christmas scripts and reach broader markets year-round. In this episode, producer Brigitte Kingsley shares why targeting distributors can be a game-changer for your holiday screenplays. Learn how distributors connect with broadcasters, offer global reach, and have year-round demand for Christmas content. Plus, find out how to pitch effectively, when to reach out, and why you should include both high and low-budget scripts in your arsenal. Don’t let your holiday screenplay gather dust—get it into the hands of those who can sell it! For an action checklist, a full transcript and the show notes - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/30-distributors-want-your-script/
Writer-Director-Producer John Stimpson of H9 Films discusses how to craft irresistible pitches, build a standout portfolio, and sell your holiday screenplay in the competitive Christmas movie market. In this episode you’ll learn how to: Build a Diverse Portfolio of Ideas Understand Market Demands. Break the Rules with Fresh Perspectives. Be Pleasantly Persistent Pitch with Confidence and Clarity For an action checklist, the show notes and the full transcript – go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/29-pitch-perfect-selling-your-holiday-script/
🎬 Exploring Year-Round Opportunities Beyond the Holiday Season 💘 Should Christmas scribes focus on romance scripts? Producer Kristofer McNeeley reveals why the romance genre might be a smarter move. Is the romance market bigger than Christmas scripts? Producer Kristofer McNeeley shares insider tips on standing out in a packed market, from crafting unique concepts to creating diverse, relatable characters. He explains why modern Christmas and romance movies thrive on internal conflict and heartwarming resolutions rather than traditional antagonists. And in a surprising twist, Kristofer encourages Christmas screenwriters to explore the untapped potential of the romance genre. ✅ For an action checklist, the show notes and a full transcript – go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/28-should-christmas-writers-say-i-do-to-romance-scripts/
Discover Candice Cain’s journey from self-starter to successful screenwriter and learn her top strategies for breaking into the Christmas TV movie market. Whether you’re crafting your first Christmas script or looking to grow in the festive film industry, this episode is packed with actionable advice. For a full transcript, an action checklist and the show notes – go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/27-is-cold-querying-producers/
Screenwriter Zac Hug shares why crafting moments of joy, especially tears of joy, is key to creating compelling Christmas movies that attract producers and networks like Hallmark. Learn how to balance innovation while staying true to the genre’s emotional core. Whether you're writing for a seasoned audience or aiming to sell your first script, Zac’s insights on crafting joy-filled moments, effective writers' groups, and pitching strategies will help you stand out in the Christmas TV-movie market. For the show notes, an action checklist and a full transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/26-why-tears-of-joy-sell-christmas-scripts/ Check out the YouTube verison: https://youtu.be/oMBuSmZ9YVM Support the show! Buy Me A Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/ChristmasMovie
Screenwriter and author Bob Sáenz discusses what producers want in Christmas scripts and advises on how to turn your holiday script into a production-ready masterpiece. Bob emphasizes the significance of writing to budget, particularly in the Christmas movie genre, as limited resources necessitate creative storytelling within defined parameters. He candidly shares how he navigates the industry, the importance of networking, and establishing authentic relationships to get scripts read, while also dispelling myths about the role of agents and managers in the screenwriting world. For an action checklist, the show notes and a full transcript go to: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/25-what-producers-want-in-christmas-scripts/
Seasoned Christmas movie writer and director Ron Oliver reveals how a strong story concept can attract producers, even if the script has flaws. For all the show notes, an action checklist and the full transcript – go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/24-how-a-great-story-concept-can-save-a-flawed-script/ Now on YouTube too! https://youtu.be/9iNrVrDX4Ug Fuel more great content by buying me a hot cocoa on https://buymeacoffee.com/christmasmovie
Screenwriter Kelly Peters offers practical tips on how to make your Christmas scripts stand out to producers, from focusing on the producibility of your script to understanding the importance of networking. This episode is packed with actionable advice for screenwriters looking to make their mark in the Christmas movie genre. For our action checklist, the show notes and the full transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/23-secrets-to-breaking-into-christmas-movies/ (NEW) See the video interview: https://youtu.be/I6fH1WtUnUY
Screenwriter Lisa Hepner shares how she found a mentor who became integral to her career. She also highlights how mentorship programs can offer industry insights that elevate your writing. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this episode offers practical advice on why having a mentor could be the key to your success. To get our action checklist, a full transcript and the show notes – go here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SF1USP83AS6Qya2QFSJ3Ak6ZZseVjdza/view?usp=sharing Check out the YouTube version of the interview here: https://youtu.be/C4VL8Y0Ca5A
Screenwriter Karen Schaler discusses how to strategically target the right producers, ensuring your Christmas movie idea lands in the hands of those most likely to bring it to life. Discover the importance of researching production companies that align with your story's theme, how to tailor your pitch to their specific preferences, and why your success largely depends on strategic targeting after your script is written. If you're looking to turn your holiday screenplay into a beloved Christmas classic, this episode is packed with essential insights to help you succeed. For the shownotes, an action checklist and a full transcript - click here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/21-are-you-targeting-the-right-christmas-producer Youtube video (new!) https://youtu.be/6GIq0RtZJDE
Christmas script ideas are hard to come up with. Screenwriter and development exec, Cara Russell offers tips on how to generate more ideas. Learn why you need dozens (70!) of original Christmas script loglines. In this episode, we dive into Cara Russell's journey to screenwriting success and her invaluable advice for aspiring Christmas screenwriters. Cara shares her tips on generating original ideas by brainstorming numerous loglines, expanding your network through volunteering and industry events, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your skills, this episode provides practical steps to help you stand out in the crowded Christmas spec market. For all the shownotes and a full transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/20-why-you-need-70-christmas-script-ideas/ You can now watch our interviews on Youtube! https://youtu.be/mgjA8hMufq8
Unlock the secrets to crafting standout Christmas spec scripts with insights from successful screenwriter Timothy Kuryak. Learn genre innovation, representation strategies, portfolio building, film deconstruction, and tapping into international markets to elevate your writing career. For a full transcript, the show notes and your action checklist - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/19-how-to-make-your-christmas-spec-stand-out/
Screenwriter Isabel Dréan, discusses why a holiday script with heartfelt storytelling has more power than original plots in creating memorable Christmas movies. Join us as we dive into the secrets of successful holiday movies, discussing how strong emotional connections and heartfelt stories resonate more deeply with audiences than unique plots. Whether you're a seasoned screenwriter or just starting, understanding the importance of emotional storytelling is key to creating a timeless holiday classic. Check out this episode’s transcript, show notes and your action checklist at https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/18-why-emotion-beats-originality-in-holiday-scripts/