Development executive

Definition

A development executive is a professional in the film and television industry responsible for overseeing the early stages of project creation, which includes script development, securing financing, and coordinating with writers and producers. Their role is crucial as they identify potential projects that align with a production company's goals and help shape the creative direction of those projects during the development process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Development executives play a key role in shaping the story and characters during the script development phase, often working closely with writers to refine their ideas.
2. They are responsible for analyzing market trends and audience preferences to ensure that projects have commercial potential.
3. Development executives often manage relationships with talent, such as directors, actors, and writers, helping to assemble a creative team for each project.
4. They typically report to senior executives or producers and are involved in budgeting and scheduling discussions during the initial phases of project development.
5. Part of their job may also include overseeing the submission process for scripts and ensuring that projects meet industry standards before they are pitched for funding.

Review Questions

• What specific responsibilities does a development executive have in shaping a film or television project during its early stages?
  • A development executive is responsible for overseeing script development, which includes working closely with writers to refine storylines and characters. They also assess market trends to ensure projects have commercial viability and manage relationships with key talent. This role involves coordinating with producers and other stakeholders to align the project's creative direction with the company's goals while preparing for potential funding and production.
• How does a development executive's role differ from that of a script reader in the project evaluation process?
  • While both roles are essential in evaluating scripts, a development executive has a broader responsibility that includes overseeing the entire development process of a project. A script reader primarily focuses on reading scripts, providing summaries, and offering feedback on the screenplay's quality and marketability. In contrast, the development executive takes this feedback into account but also manages relationships with writers, producers, and other creatives while actively guiding projects toward production.
• Evaluate how the role of a development executive impacts the overall success of film or television projects within the industry.
  • The role of a development executive is critical to the success of film and television projects as they bridge creative vision with commercial viability. By identifying promising scripts, refining story elements, and ensuring alignment with audience interests, they significantly influence which projects get greenlit. Their ability to cultivate relationships within the industry helps attract talent and secure funding, which are essential for bringing a project from concept to completion. As such, effective development executives can elevate projects' chances of success in a competitive marketplace.

Related terms

Script Reader: A person who evaluates screenplays and provides feedback to development executives, often summarizing plots and assessing the commercial viability of the script.

Pitch: A brief presentation or proposal of a project idea intended to persuade producers or executives to invest in or support the development of a film or television show.

Greenlight: The official approval from a production company to move forward with the financing and production of a film or television project after the development stage.