Netflix spends billions each year to make content. You the screenwriter who can’t get into Hollywood wants a part of the action right?
It’s true an agent is the number one way to get your story into the hands of someone who matters. Not just for Netflix but for any platform or company buying creative content.
But you can’t find a literary agent that works for Netflix. Why is this?
Netflix doesn’t have literary agents. They only have a team of executives and buyers. There is no such thing as a Netflix agent; at least for now.
I say for now because you don’t know what moves the company will make to increase its competitive edge in the future. But as for the year 2020, they have no such thing.
But they do work with an agency that you might want to contact. More on that below.
Who is Netflix’s literary Agency?
So yes Netflix works with an agency but they are not owned by them they just have a working relationship with them.
Maria Campbell Literary Associates
In 2017 they retained this agency to find books that would be great for miniseries, movies, etc. But they are not looking for original material. They look for books.
The name of the game is social proof. Netflix along with Hollywood wants guaranteed money or something close to that. The only way they can make sure they won’t lose money on a project is if they can prove it already has an audience. Books are a great way of showing that proof.
If a book has sold a certain number they can be sure that the pre-existing community will also watch the visual adaptation to the book. And that brings me to the next part of this article.
How to Become a Writer for Netflix?
There are two ways you can become a writer for Netflix
The first is through writing book adaptations, the second is through a producer, attorney, manager, or entertainment executive who has a pre-existing relationship with them.
Let’s break down each of these.
Assignment work is the name of the game. What is assignment work as a screenwriter? When you work on an assignment you are hired to write something that a company already has an idea for. Not your idea their idea.
For example, say Netflix has a book they obtained the rights for they want to be made into a script. They would then contact a writer to do so. That writer would then have written something for Netflix and get the credit.
But this is given to more experienced writers who have a track record. Not for the newer writer. But there is still hope.
The second way to become a writer for Netflix is to partner with one of the professionals mentioned above who they already have a working relationship with.
How do you find these people?
Google is your friend. IMDBPro is your best friend.
Find the writers who are credited on Netflix films and shows. You can do this by watching the credits of any Netflix movie. Next, search for them on IMDB Pro. When contacting them they normally give there agent or manager contact. That’s the person you want a working relationship with.
That’s the fastest way to contact an agent or a manager with a previous relationship with Netflix. You can also do this with executives and attornies. It just requires some research.
If you want to know a little bit more detail about this process and how to pitch them take a look at the article I wrote below.
Happy writing.
Here’s Why You Can’t Find a Netflix Literary Agent
FAQs
If you don't have an agent yet, don't be discouraged. According to the Netflix Help Center they are willing to work with any person who has a prior working relationship with Netflix. That can mean a producer, director, showrunner, or any other creator who has previously worked with the streamer.
What to do if you can't find a literary agent? ›
PublishersMarketplace.com is the best place to research literary agents; not only do many agents have member pages there, but you can search the publishing deals database by genre, category, and/or keyword to pinpoint the best agents for your work.
Why does it take so long for literary agents to respond? ›
Most agents spend their days working for their active clients, because they make their money after securing deals for the authors they represent. So they need to service their current clients first to keep the lights on, and that's a good thing for you if an agent is representing you.
Who are the Netflix approved agents? ›
The leading agencies are WME (William Morris Endeavor), CAA (Creative Artists Agency), ICM (International Creative Management) and UTA (United Talent Agency). There are also smaller agencies and independents who enjoy access to Netflix buyers.
How do I pitch an idea to Netflix? ›
To pitch an idea, game, script, screenplay, or production in development to Netflix, you must collaborate with a licensed agent, producer, attorney, manager, or industry executive with an existing Netflix relationship. Direct submissions from individuals without these connections are not accepted by the platform.
How much does Netflix pay for scripts? ›
How much will Netflix pay for a script? The WGA reports that the median total pay for a screenplay deal with Netflix was $375,000, and the highest salary was reported as $4,000,000.
Why is finding a literary agent so difficult? ›
Competition is very, very high.
So many authors. So few agents. Right now, the publishing market is flooded with writers trying to get their books published. While some are attracted to indie/self-publishing from the outset, many authors begin by approaching editors and agents first.
Do first time authors need agents? ›
You Do Need A Literary Agent If:
You are writing a novel. You are writing commercial non-fiction (the sort of thing that might be sold at the front of a shop, or feature on a bestseller list). You are writing fiction for children. You are writing a 'how to' type book in a major category (such as health and well-being).
What are the chances of getting a literary agent? ›
1 in 6,000. However, writers can increase their chances of getting a book agent using these tips. This article about the chances of getting a publishing agent is part of our free 15-Part Guide About How to Get a Book Agent. It explains how hard it is to get a literary agent, and what authors can do about it.
What is the rejection rate for literary agents? ›
Did you know that 96% of authors seeking agents are rejected? Flip it around, and it can be said that only 4% of them land an agent. Peruse through Writer's Market and you'll see that right alongside an agent's address is their acceptance rate. The reason for rejections typically comes down to a few key issues.
So, at the very least, literary agents are looking for authors who are not going to be too difficult to work with, and for preference they want to represent an author who is professional, reliable, willing to work on their craft, and willing to listen to the agent and follow their advice.
How do I sell my story on Netflix? ›
If you have an idea, game, script, screenplay, or production already in development that you'd like to pitch to Netflix, you must work through a licensed agent, producer, attorney, manager, or industry executive, as appropriate, who already has a relationship with Netflix.
How do I find a licensed literary agent? ›
Here are some ways you can find a literary agent of your own:
- Do research. Before you reach out to any literary agencies, research them thoroughly and create a wish list of the ones you think would be the best fit for you. ...
- Check agent listings. ...
- Start querying. ...
- Try self-publishing.
Wilmot Reed Hastings Jr. (born October 8, 1960) is an American billionaire businessman. He is the co-founder, and executive chairman of Netflix, Inc. and currently sits on a number of boards and non-profit organizations.
How much do literary agents cost? ›
While there are a few exceptions, the most common commission for a literary agent is 15%. If an agent places a book with a publisher and negotiates a $25,000 advance, that agent will take out their 15% (or $3,750) and send the rest (or $21,250) to their client.
What is the best way to get a literary agent? ›
Takes one minute.
- Start by getting your manuscript in good shape. Literary agents don't expect a manuscript to reach them ready for publication. ...
- Research literary agents and compile a shortlist. ...
- Personalize your query for each agent. ...
- Send your query letters in batches. ...
- Follow up 4-6 weeks later. ...
- Don't jump at the first offer.
How do you get a referral? It's kind of tricky. If you don't have personal connections, the best way to do this is to get involved with writers communities (online or in person), fraternize with writers, and put yourself in a position where your work will be seen by other established writers.
How do I submit to a literary agent? ›
What you should submit to a literary agent
- Query letter. This is a one-page pitch letter that gives a brief description of your work. ...
- Novel synopsis. This is a brief summary (usually no more than one or two pages) of your story, from beginning to end. ...
- Nonfiction book proposal. ...
- Novel proposal. ...
- Sample chapters.
