The development of a film script is a long and complex process, beginning with the initial story concept, continuing through drafting and financing, to the start of the shoot. Although initially creatively driven by the writer, it is a team effort, and is managed by a producer or development executive. And yet the best ways of understanding and managing this important development process have never been properly researched and studied. The Screenplay Business does exactly that, addressing such questions as: How do we create the best processes and environments for developing stories and concepts for film? Are some of the current practices hindering efficient development? How can the creative team of the writer, producer, director and development executive be made to work together most effectively? How can producers and development executives build their businesses through effective project development? This book will help writers to nurture their stories and vision through the long development process to the screen, and will help producers and development executives to develop lasting relationships with key talent and build businesses.