Ep 301 - Netflix vs. Warner Bros: What This Means for Screenwriters

In this solo episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun breaks down the shocking acquisition bids involving Netflix, Warner Bros., and Paramount and explains what they actually mean for working screenwriters. With co-host Kristy Leigh Lussier sidelined by COVID, Geoffrey steps in to unpack the real industry impact behind the headlines, from shrinking theatrical windows and mid-budget film erosion to foreign investment, media consolidation, and soft power. Most importantly, Geoffrey offers clarity, perspective, and practical guidance on how writers can still build careers, get projects made, and create opportunity in a rapidly shifting entertainment landscape.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Netflix’s business model puts mid-budget films at riskWhat Paramount’s bid could mean for theatrical releases and media controlHow monopolization affects writers, creators, and audiencesWhere writers can realistically get work made right nowWhy chasing gigs is less effective than building IPWhether moving to LA still makes sense in today’s industryHow to choose the right idea when none of them feel readyKey Moments00:00 Industry update and why this episode could not wait06:30 Netflix’s $80B bid and the future of theatrical releases15:20 Paramount’s $108B offer, foreign money, and CNN influence27:45 Why Netflix wins regardless of who acquires Warner Bros36:10 What writers should do now to survive and thrive48:30 Choosing the idea that is worth writingAbout the HostWith films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeWeekly free screenwriting leads athttps://www.thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #HollywoodBusiness #Netflix #WarnerBros #Paramount #ScreenwritersLife #FilmCareers #StreamingWars #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter  Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!