As a black LGBTQ+ writer, when it comes to crafting stories, I do a lot of my research based on social media and what I see people saying they'd like to see and a lot of the community says, "More representation". One of my staples is that in most of my scripts, there's always an LGBTQ+ character because hello, it's 2024 and we exist in DROVES so I feel my art should imitate life.
However, when I've sent out my written pitch for my LGBTQ holiday rom-com, "Can I Keep You?" (Netflix's "Alex Strangelove" meets "He's Just Not That Into You", with a Latino & African-American lead), I've gotten great feedback on the script and have been told "this story needs to be told however, I'm not sure where I'd be able to shop it." So my question is, is there truly space for positive queer stories in the market? With the success of "Love, Simon", "Red, White, and Royal Blue", "Single All The Way" and others, I believe there is which I continue to write them but it seems as though industry execs don't share that same belief.
This was written with Keiynan Lonsdale and "POSE" star, Angela Curiel in mind.
3 people like this
The creator of Pose talked about the challenges making the show; and he wasn't established, partnered with a top showrunner.
Just watched "Carol" on netflix.
Anyways, anything is possible; just need time & win over champions.
4 people like this
I feel your pain. LGBTQ producers are out there but they don't seem all that accessible, and they seem to have gone invisible in this site. And, sadly, there doesn't seem to be a lot of resources for our community to get that access. IMDbPro and cold queries, I guess, is the way to go.
3 people like this
With all the progression we've made, I would think that studios see the value in LGBTQ stories that uplift and inspire, "Red, White, & Royal Blue" was the #1 MOVIE on Amazon for 3 weeks. Overall movie. And that does give me hope, we will keep pressing on!
3 people like this
Hi Xavion - have you considered any of the many DIVERSITY competitions? Reliable ones most paid attention to can be found on Coverfly and ISA.com. Instead of seeking individual prodcos looking for these valued stories, many will pay close attention to the semis+ of these competitions, resulting in many eyes on your work. Just a thought... Cheers and good luck!
1 person likes this
There absolutely is, Xavion Niles! With any project, it just takes time to find the right home and the right moment. When my former boss read the original pilot for Pose, she was the 150th person to read it and they had long ago given up on submitting it as anything other than a writing sample spec, because Steven had been told the same thing too many times. Then when we started taking out the pitch, we were told by multiple people that it was a great script, but would never sell. We didn't let that dissuade us and eventually, it happened. You just have to keep trying. Believe in the work, keep writing and honing your craft, and keep championing the projects that mean the most to you. It's not about finding a home, it's about finding the RIGHT home, no matter how long that takes.
2 people like this
Ashley Renee Smith I actually remember reading about the troubles Stephen Canals went through with "POSE" and the many attempts he had to go through. I was extremely ecstatic that the show performed as well as it did and still has people clamoring for another season. I love what you said about finding the RIGHT home. I think we all want that "yes" for a script request but you're right, it's the RIGHT "yes" that counts. Thank you so much for this.
3 people like this
Matthew Kelcourse I looked on Coverfly after I saw your post and will be looking into their competitions. "Can I Keep You" actually placed in the semis in the Stage32 Rom Com contest last year and that was before I went back and did some re-writes to it so that was encouraging.
2 people like this
Awesome, Xavier. Congratulations! Coverfly also has an exchange program for members (no cost to join or participate) where they read and offer notes on each other's scripts, if you like that sort of exchange.