Learn from Viola Davis' former Development Executive

Get a Downloadable List of Companies with POD Deals (Production Overall Deals), a list of Studio/Financier Deals and a "Cheat Sheet" Template on how to target your top company

Many established production companies have POD Deals (Production Overall Deals) which means they already have output deals, first look deals or are producing content for a specific studio, network or streamer.  These are trusted production companies that they are looking to first for content and so can often be a great place to look when you have an idea of the ideal home for your project.

Large studios and streamers want to work with companies they trust and have a proven track record and while that might not be you right now, one avenue is to get the attention of a production company with a POD.  But how do you approach these companies? What are they looking for? How does it all work? What do you need to know?

To help you navigate the world of POD deals is Liliana Granados. For nearly a decade Liliana Granados has worked in producing and development with some of the industry's top companies including JuVee Productions (Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis' company), NBC Casting, 3 Arts Entertainment, and Sofia Vergara's Latin World Entertainment. Most recently she served as the Director of Development for Eugenio Derbez's 3Pas Studios focusing on feature film drama projects. 

In this webinar, you will learn what a POD deal is, which companies make these deals, and what they look for. You'll learn how to approach companies with a POD deal, the difference between informational meetings and pitch meetings, and how to stand out in each. We’ll cover what you need to bring to the table, like project packages or spec scripts, and how to align your project with the company’s vision. Plus, once you sign a deal, you’ll know exactly what to expect, avoid common mistakes, and navigate the process smoothly.You will walk away with an understanding on what PODS are and how to approach them for your own project! 

PLUS! You will receive:

• A downloadable list of companies that have Production Overall Deals (PODs). 
• A list of studio/financier deals
• A "Cheat Sheat" template on how to target your top company

What is a POD Deal? (Production Overall Deal)

• Definition and overview

• Types of companies involved in such deals

• Examples of successful POD deals in the industry

• The Responsibilities of PODs in a deal

• List of prominent production companies with deals

How to Work with a Company that has a POD Deal

• Strategies for approaching companies with POD deals

• Differentiating between informational meetings and pitch meetings

• The distinct purposes and expectations for each type of meeting

• Etiquette and strategies for making a lasting impression

• Homework: Craft a ‘Cheat Sheet’ for your company of interest

• Example: Anonymous Content

• The Essential elements of a project package before approaching a POD

• Presenting a spec script versus a script sample

• Adding value to a POD deal: Understanding what companies look for

• Researching the Company’s Business

• Understanding the ethos and vision of these companies

• Identifying causes and themes they are passionate about

Once You Sign a Deal with a Pod, What Happens?

• The journey: What to expect

• Roles and responsibilities of all parties involved

• How they can help package your film within the ecosystem.

• What the studio needs (attachments) to greenlight a project 

• Pitfalls to avoid and best practices for navigating a pod deal successfully 

• Strategies for handling unexpected questions with poise

• Addressing potential objections and concerns from creative executives

• Turning challenges into opportunities to reinforce your project's strengths

Q&A with Liliana

All levels of screenwriters (advanced, intermediate and beginner) looking to get their film or television project made with an A-list actor's production company.

All levels of screenwriters (advanced, intermediate and beginner) looking to learn how to approach an A-list actor's production company to sell your film or television project.

All levels of filmmakers (advanced, intermediate and beginner)looking to learn how to approach an A-list actor's production company to sell your film or television project.

All levels of producers (advanced, intermediate and beginner)looking to learn how to approach an A-list actor's production company to sell your film or television project.

"As an executive with extensive experience across multiple actor-led companies, I've had the privilege of evaluating numerous pitches and contributing insights at various film festival panels, guiding filmmakers through the intricate art of pitching. Whether engaging with emerging creators or seasoned artists, I've witnessed firsthand how crafting a compelling pitch stands as the pivotal selling point for any project.

Throughout my career, I've gathered invaluable insights into what resonates with actors when assessing potential projects. This knowledge has been honed through years of immersive industry exposure, enabling me to discern the elements that truly captivate actors and align projects with their aspirations.

Now, I'm thrilled to distill this wealth of knowledge into a concise and actionable framework. My aim is to empower you with the strategic tools and insights necessary to elevate your pitch, significantly enhancing your project's potential for success. Together, let's navigate the nuanced landscape of pitching to ensure your project stands out and captures the attention it deserves." - Liliana Granados