A great script isn't enough anymore. Find out how to build tangible value around your project and position yourself as a compelling creative partner in 2026's competitive landscape.
Date: Friday, April 10th
Time: 15:30 to 16:20
Room: Tuke Hall
Filmed: YES
In an industry that is rapidly evolving, and in many ways contracting too, screenwriters face a paradox. There has never been greater access to technology, collaborators, platforms and audiences. Yet there has also never been more competition. In 2026, a great script is essential… but it may no longer be enough.
Established British film and television producers David Walton and Barry Ryan are at the forefront of this changing landscape and they spend much of their time pitching. They have the battle scars to prove it. Having previously attended PitchFest, where they optioned scripts from writers they met and went on to develop those projects, they understand first-hand what makes a writer stand out in a crowded marketplace.
In this forward-thinking session, they explore how screenwriters can elevate both their craft and their careers by bringing MORE to the opportunity than the pages of your screenplay. Assuming your script is already strong, what else can you build around it to increase its viability and visibility?
From creating a podcast set within your story world, to publishing a book that establishes underlying IP, to attaching cast, elevating your socials, producing proof-of-concept shorts, leveraging existing relationships, or strategically building an audience, this session examines the practical, creative and commercial ways you can add tangible value to your project.
Rather than waiting to be discovered, how can you position yourself in the top 2% of writers by demonstrating initiative, strategy and market awareness? David and Barry will share real-world examples, industry insight and actionable approaches that empower you to move from “talented writer” to “compelling creative partner.”
You’ll leave inspired, and armed with concrete strategies to futureproof your writing career in a competitive and shifting industry.
Key Outcomes, You Will:
- Gain clarity on how to take advantage of the shifting film and TV landscape in 2026
- Understand why “just the script” may no longer be enough
- Learn practical ways to build value around your project without losing creative integrity, and dare we say it, also having creative fun in the process
- Discover how to establish or strengthen IP across multiple platforms (podcasts, books, shorts, digital content)
- Explore strategies for attaching cast, collaborators or partners early
- Identify how to leverage existing relationships and audiences strategically
- Recognise what producers are truly looking for in today’s climate
- Leave with a clear action plan to elevate your project, and your professional positioning
This is a session for writers who are ready, not just to write brilliantly, but to think ambitiously, act strategically, and compete at the highest level.
Speakers In This Session
David A Walton // Exec Producer and Head of Development
David is an accomplished television executive and producer with a strong academic background, known for developing and delivering innovative factual and drama programming.
Barry Ryan // MD & Creative Director
Barry is a highly experienced media professional with over 25 years in journalism and television, producing and directing award-winning content across major broadcasters and global platforms.
