What are the jobs in Film/TV Development?

What Are the Jobs in Film and TV Development?

Film and TV development is a crucial stage in the creation of movies and television shows, where ideas are transformed into scripts and eventually into finished projects. Development involves a wide range of professionals who contribute to the shaping, refining, and financing of content before it goes into production. If you’re interested in the creative side of the entertainment industry, understanding the various roles in development is essential.

Some of the key jobs in film and TV development include:

• Script Reader/Story Analyst: Script readers or story analysts are the first line of defense in the development process. They read and evaluate scripts, treatments, and books, providing coverage (a summary and analysis) to development executives. Their feedback helps determine whether a project is worth pursuing. For more information on this role, see our article on "What is coverage?"
• Development Assistant: Development assistants provide administrative support to the development team. Their tasks may include scheduling meetings, organizing scripts, conducting research, and tracking the progress of projects. This role is often an entry-level position that offers a front-row seat to the development process.
• Creative Executive: Creative executives work closely with development executives to shape the creative direction of projects. They provide notes on scripts, work with writers on revisions, and ensure that the project remains aligned with the creative goals of the studio or network.
• Director of Development: The director of development oversees the development department at a studio, network, or production company. They are responsible for managing the team of development executives, selecting projects for development, and working with talent to ensure that the projects are progressing as planned.
• Development Executive: Development executives are responsible for finding, evaluating, and nurturing new projects. They work with writers, producers, and directors to develop scripts and ensure that the content aligns with the studio or network’s vision. They often oversee multiple projects simultaneously, guiding them from the concept stage through to pre-production.
• Producer: Producers play a vital role in development by securing the rights to a project, assembling the creative team, and often overseeing the entire development process. They work closely with writers, directors, and development executives to bring a project from an idea to a greenlit production.
• Literary Manager/Agent: Literary managers and agents represent writers, directors, and producers. They help their clients find and secure development opportunities, negotiate deals, and guide their careers. They are often involved in the early stages of a project, helping to package talent and pitch projects to studios and networks.
• Writer: Writers are at the heart of the development process, creating the scripts that will eventually be produced. In development, writers may work on original ideas or be hired to adapt existing material. They collaborate with development executives, producers, and directors to refine their scripts through multiple drafts.

How Do I Get Into Film and TV Development?

Entering the world of film and TV development often requires a combination of education, industry knowledge, and experience. Here are some steps you can take to pursue a career in this field:

1. Get a Job Working at a Talent or Literary Agency: One of the most effective ways to break into film and TV development is by starting at a talent or literary agency. This path provides a strong foundation in understanding the industry, building a network, and gaining valuable experience. For more details on this path, refer to our article on "What is an Assistant to a Talent Agent?"
2. Do I Need a Degree? More and more entertainment companies are not requiring a 4-year degree, though some may require a 2-year degree or work experience equivalent. While a degree isn't always necessary, taking relevant courses in film, television, communications, or screenplay development can be highly beneficial. If you’re in college, consider taking classes that focus on screenplay development and start writing coverage to build your skills. For more on this, see our article on "What is coverage?"
3. Gain Industry Experience: Internships and entry-level positions at production companies, studios, or agencies can provide valuable experience. Working as a development assistant is a common starting point for those looking to break into development.
4. Build a Network: The entertainment industry is highly relationship-driven. Attend industry events, join professional organizations like HRTS and if you went to school your school alumni association and Linkedin to find Alumin that are in the industry, and connect with professionals in the field to build your network.
5. Develop Script Analysis Skills: Understanding what makes a good script is essential in development. Practice reading scripts, writing coverage, and analyzing what works and what doesn’t. For more details on coverage, refer to our article on "What is coverage?"
6. Stay Informed: Keep up with industry trends, new projects, and key players in the development space. Being knowledgeable about the current landscape will help you make informed decisions and contribute to the development process.

Why These Jobs Matter:

Jobs in film and TV development are vital to the creation of the content we watch. Development professionals are responsible for nurturing ideas, refining stories, and ensuring that projects have the potential to succeed both creatively and commercially. These roles are ideal for individuals who are passionate about storytelling, have a keen eye for talent, and want to be involved in shaping the future of film and television. Whether you aspire to be a development executive, producer, or writer, working in development offers a unique opportunity to influence the entertainment industry from its earliest stages.