How to Get Your Script to Netflix
A Comprehensive Guide for Screenwriters
1. Perfect your script
Before attempting to reach Netflix, ensure your script is polished and professional. This is crucial because you often only get one chance to make a first impression.
Multiple revisions:
Don't stop at the first draft. Good writing is rewriting. Go through your script multiple times, focusing on different aspects each time (e.g., plot, character development, dialogue, pacing).
Get professional feedback: Consider hiring a script consultant or joining a reputable screenwriting workshop. These professionals can provide invaluable insights into your script's strengths and weaknesses.
Peer reviews: Join a writers' group or find trusted fellow writers to exchange scripts with. Fresh eyes can catch issues you might have overlooked.
Read it aloud: This helps you catch awkward phrasing, unrealistic dialogue, and pacing issues.
Study successful scripts: Read scripts of successful Netflix shows and films in your genre. Pay attention to their structure, pacing, and style.
Polish your formatting: Ensure your script adheres to industry-standard formatting. Use professional screenwriting software like Final Draft or WriterDuet.
2. Gain representation
Netflix primarily works with established agents and production companies. Securing a reputable agent or manager can significantly improve your chances of getting your script read.
Research agencies: Look into agencies that represent writers in your genre. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) provides a list of signatory agencies.
Prepare your pitch: Develop a compelling elevator pitch and a longer synopsis of your script.
Query letters: Craft a concise, engaging query letter to send to agents. Highlight your script's unique selling points and any relevant writing credits.
Networking: Attend industry events where you might meet agents or get referrals from other writers.
Consider managers: While agents focus on selling your script, managers can help develop your overall career.
Be persistent but professional: Follow up on your queries, but respect agencies' submission guidelines and response times.
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3. Build your network
The entertainment industry often operates on relationships. Networking can lead to valuable connections and opportunities.
Film festivals: Attend major festivals like Sundance, SXSW, or Toronto, as well as smaller, genre-specific festivals. These are great places to meet industry professionals and fellow writers.
Screenwriting conferences: Events like the Austin Film Festival's Writers Conference or the Screenwriting Expo offer workshops, panels, and networking opportunities.
Industry events: Look for local film industry meetups, screenings, or talks in your area.
Online communities: Join screenwriting forums, Facebook groups, or subreddits. Participate actively and build relationships.
Alumni networks: If you attended film school, tap into your alumni network. Many successful industry professionals are willing to help fellow alumni.
Be genuine: Focus on building real relationships, not just handing out business cards. Show interest in others' work and be willing to help where you can.
Networking isn't about immediate results; it's about building long-term relationships that can lead to opportunities down the line.
4. Create a track record
Producing your own content can showcase your talent and demonstrate your ability to execute ideas.
Short films: Write and produce short films. These can be great calling cards and are easier to fund and create than features.
Web series: Creating a successful web series can demonstrate your ability to sustain a narrative and build an audience.
Indie features: If possible, write and produce an independent feature film. Even a micro-budget film can attract attention if it's well-crafted.
Collaborate: Partner with up-and-coming directors or producers to bring your scripts to life.
Film competitions: Enter your produced works into film festivals and competitions. Accolades can help you stand out.
Build an online presence: Share your work on platforms like Vimeo or YouTube. Build a following for your content.
A strong portfolio of produced work shows Netflix that you can not only write, but also bring stories to life on screen.
5. Utilize online platforms
Several online platforms can help get your work noticed by industry professionals, including Netflix executives.
The Black List: This paid service allows you to upload your script for industry professionals to read and rate. High ratings can lead to significant exposure.
Amazon Studios: They accept script submissions for feature films and original series through their website.
Coverfly: This platform connects emerging writers with industry professionals and hosts several respected screenwriting competitions.
Stage 32: Offers networking opportunities, educational resources, and pitch sessions with industry executives.
Virtual pitch fests: Platforms like Roadmap Writers or Script Pipeline offer opportunities to pitch directly to industry professionals.
Remember to tailor your submissions to each platform and follow their guidelines carefully.
6. Consider Netflix's content needs
Understanding and aligning with Netflix's content strategy can increase your chances of success.
Study their content: Watch a wide range of Netflix original series and films. Pay attention to themes, styles, and genres they favor.
Follow industry news: Stay updated on Netflix's production deals, content announcements, and stated goals. Trade publications like Variety or The Hollywood Reporter are good sources.
Identify gaps: Look for underrepresented genres or stories in their current lineup. Netflix is always looking to diversify its content.
Global mindset: Netflix operates globally. Consider writing stories with international appeal or that could work well in multiple markets.
Binge-worthy: For series, think about how your story can keep viewers engaged across multiple episodes.
Budget considerations: Be aware of the scope of your script. While Netflix produces both big-budget and smaller productions, knowing where your script fits can help in pitching.
Tailoring your pitch to align with Netflix's needs doesn't mean changing your entire story, but rather highlighting aspects that would make it a good fit for their platform.
7. Explore Netflix's specific programs
Netflix occasionally offers programs aimed at discovering new talent.
Netflix Emerging Filmmaker Initiative: This program aims to identify and support up-and-coming filmmakers from underrepresented communities.
Netflix partnerships: Keep an eye out for writing programs Netflix sponsors in partnership with other organizations, like film schools or diversity-focused groups.
Netflix Film Club: Follow their YouTube channel for insights into their content creation process and what they look for in stories.
Regional initiatives: Netflix sometimes launches region-specific programs to develop local content in different countries.
These programs are highly competitive but can provide direct access to Netflix decision-makers.
8. Be patient and persistent
Breaking into Netflix takes time and perseverance.
Keep writing: Continue to hone your craft. Write new scripts, explore different genres, and always be working on your next project.
Stay informed: Keep up with industry trends, technological changes, and shifts in viewer preferences.
Diversify your approach: Don't put all your eggs in the Netflix basket. Explore opportunities with other streaming platforms, traditional studios, and independent producers.
Handle rejection constructively: Use rejections as learning experiences. If you receive feedback, consider it carefully.
Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge every achievement, no matter how small. Each step forward is progress.
Network consistently: Continue building and maintaining industry relationships even when you're not actively pitching.
Consider other roles: Sometimes, getting a foot in the door in another capacity (e.g., writer's assistant, script reader) can lead to opportunities to pitch your own work.
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