S&S LIVE (Ep 34) Meet the Manager w/ Jeff Portnoy of Bellevue Productions
Dec 19, 2021
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Join Jeff Portnoy, a literary manager and producer at Bellevue Productions, as he shares insights from his extensive career in the film industry. He discusses the critical roles of managers and agents in writers' development and the art of adaptation, stressing the value of collaboration. Portnoy dives into current trends, including the impact of streaming on feature films and the evolving landscape of screenwriting post-pandemic. He also highlights the importance of networking and navigating contests for aspiring screenwriters.
Jeff Portnoy's journey illustrates the significance of evolving career paths in the film industry, transitioning from writing to management.
The role of a literary manager involves deep engagement in script development, offering feedback that enhances the creative process extensively.
Portnoy advises aspiring writers to be bold and unique in their storytelling to effectively capture the attention of industry representatives.
Deep dives
Jeff Portnoy's Background in Film and Management
Jeff Portnoy details his journey into the film industry, beginning with a passion for movies from a young age that led him to attend the New York Film Academy. He transitioned from writing and directing aspirations to freelance story analysis, eventually working at Creative Artists Agency (CAA). During his time at CAA, he found fulfillment in developing scripts and providing feedback to writers, realizing he preferred supporting writers over writing himself. This led him to pursue a career in management and production, culminating in his current role at Bellevue Productions.
The Role of Development in Literary Representation
In his discussion, Portnoy emphasizes the critical importance of development work in his role as a literary manager. This includes actively participating in feedback sessions and nurturing script evolution to enhance the quality of the material. He notes that having experience as a screenwriter allows him to provide more insightful feedback to clients. This dual perspective as both a writer and a manager helps him navigate the complexities of script development more effectively.
Key Differences Between Agents and Managers
Portnoy articulates the distinctions between agents and managers, highlighting that agents primarily focus on sales while managers engage deeply in the creative development process. Managers are often more involved in providing feedback, helping to develop a writer's material, and working closely with clients throughout their creative journey. Portnoy also mentions that having a manager with agency experience gives him insight into how to effectively work within the industry. This allows him to better support his clients in both development and sales phases.
The Importance of Boldness and Uniqueness in Writing
Portnoy encourages aspiring writers to embrace boldness and uniqueness in their storytelling to stand out in a saturated market. He suggests that writers should craft high-concept ideas and develop scripts that spark interest and curiosity. He explains how a standout logline and an engaging bio can capture the attention of managers and agents. Moreover, he emphasizes that while writing is vital, producing diverse and compelling material consistently is essential for gaining representation.
Navigating the Query Process
When it comes to querying, Portnoy advises that personalized and succinct submissions are critical in making a strong impression. He mentions the significance of a compelling logline and a tailored bio that highlights unique experiences. Portnoy states that while quantifying the success of queries can be challenging, those that include notable achievements or are vetted by reputable contests are more likely to catch attention. He stresses the importance of continuing to query and maintain persistence in the pursuit of representation.
The Evolution of the Film Industry and Packaging
Portnoy discusses the shift in the film industry towards a system where much of the packaging occurs outside studios, reducing the financial burden on them. This transition has resulted in managers, agents, and producers handling more of the development work. He notes that while this can create challenges for writers in terms of upfront payouts, it also opens the door for more independent projects to get made. Portnoy argues that despite the changes, there are still opportunities for writers to succeed by finding innovative ways to present their work.
