Insightful Analysis of 2022 Spec Script Sales Trends
Written on
Chapter 1: An Overview of Spec Script Sales in 2022
In our previous discussion, we examined spec script deals categorized by genre. Today, we will delve into the specifics of script acquisitions by various entities including streaming services, major studios, mini-majors, subsidiaries, production companies, and financiers. Our goal is to identify which players were most and least active in the acquisition market. The results are as follows:
- 30 West
- Amazon Studios
- Apple TV+
- DJ2 Entertainment
- Legendary Pictures
- Lionsgate
- Netflix
- New Line
- New Republic Pictures
- Paramount
- Range Media Partners
- Sony Pictures Entertainment
- Stampede Ventures
- Studio Canal / The Picture Company
- Thunder Road
- Universal
Interestingly, no entity acquired more than one spec script throughout 2022.
Section 1.1: Historical Context of Spec Script Deals
To provide context, let's review the numbers from 2008 to 2022 for each major studio:
- Disney: 5 / 1 / 2 / 1 / 2 / 0 / 2 / 3 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0
- Paramount: 1 / 5 / 4 / 4 / 12 / 3 / 2 / 1 / 4 / 3 / 5 / 2 / 5 / 0 / 1
- Sony: 8 / 4 / 1 / 7 / 9 / 3 / 10 / 2 / 2 / 4 / 5 / 5 / 1 / 2 / 1
- Universal: 6 / 6 / 1 / 6 / 9 / 6 / 4 / 6 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 0 / 2 / 1
- Warner Bros.: 8 / 8 / 8 / 15 / 7 / 4 / 2 / 4 / 0 / 2 / 2 / 0 / 1 / 2 / 0
The data reveals a concerning trend: studios are heavily reliant on existing intellectual properties (IPs). Notably, Disney has not acquired a single spec script in the last seven years. Instead, they have focused on their ownership of franchises such as Pixar (2006), Marvel (2009), Lucasfilm (2012), and 20th Century Fox (2019). With a treasure trove of established IP, the question arises: why would Disney seek new spec scripts?
The first video, "New Scripts for New Real Estate Agents to Beat Top Realtors," offers valuable insights into the importance of fresh narratives in a saturated market.
Section 1.2: The Future of Spec Script Sales
Despite the overwhelming focus on established franchises, there are signs that this trend may shift. Recent comments from Iger indicate that Disney is pulling back on producing Marvel and Star Wars content. This raises an intriguing question: are audiences experiencing fatigue from superhero and Star Wars narratives?
Could this be an early warning sign for the industry, suggesting that there may soon be a demand for more original storytelling? If so, we might witness a resurgence in the market for spec scripts, benefiting writers and creators alike.
We can only remain hopeful.
Tomorrow: A Look at Agents and Managers in the Industry
Chapter 2: Understanding the Role of Agents and Managers
The second video, "Should You Finance Your Spec Script By Pulling Equity From Your House? Tip from Writer Michael Jamin," provides practical advice for aspiring screenwriters on funding their projects while navigating the complexities of the industry.