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Christmas Movie Screenwriter: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Caryn McCann
Industry pros offer advice on writing, producing, and selling Christmas TV-movies.
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The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- 2 weeks ago39 min
42: Why Good Writing Won't Sell Your Christmas Script🎄
Former MarVista exec turned writer Justine Wentzell Chang explains why market fit, budget, and buyer mandates often wins out over "great writing" in Christmas TV movies — and how to shape your holiday scripts so they actually get bought and made. Youtube: https://youtu.be/4i5w8lh7-cQ Podcast: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/42-why-good-writing-wont-sell-your-christmas-script The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 42 Guest Justine Chang – Writer / Producer Show Notes HOST: Caryn McCann Website: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristmasMovieScreenwriter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caryn-mccann-5718058/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristmasMovieScreenwriter Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/christmasmovie X: https://twitter.com/MerryScriptmas My author website: https://www.carynmccann.com/ GUEST: Justine Wentzell-Chang Website: https://www.redballoonstation.com IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7519079/?ref_=fn_t_1 Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-isforjawesome/ Substack: https://substack.com/@justinechang
- Apr 19, 202647 min
41: How Can Writers Stand Out This Holiday?
Two British writer-directors share a five-step framework to make your Christmas movie stand out—from concept to pitch—so your next snowy romance doesn't melt into the slush pile. British Writer-Director duo Tim Clague & Danny Stack discussed their experience with Christmas movies. They identified the importance of structural beats, particularly the meet-cute. They noted that while many writers have strong craft skills, a common issue is weak premises that are too similar to existing content. For the shownotes, action checklist and transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/41-how-can-writers-stand-out-this-holiday
- Dec 5, 202552 min
40: Can Your Christmas Idea Become a Limited Series?
Showrunners Erin Rodman and Davah Avena reveal how they adapted a Christmas novel into Hallmark's first holiday limited series, built a collaborative room, and why screenwriters need a strong voice, endless ideas, social media, and even self‑publishing in their toolkit. For an action checklist, the show notes and a full transcript - go to: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/40-inside-hallmarks-first-christmas-limited-series/ Check out the YouTube interview here: YouTube: https://youtu.be/cMk7-vJskWE
- Nov 16, 202531 min
39: ❄️ Script Risks - Secret to Hollywood Yes?
Unlock the secrets to writing original, captivating Christmas movies with filmmaker Jake Helgren—discover how unique characters, bold storytelling, and industry adaptability can elevate your next holiday script. Check out our action checklist and the show notes at: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/39-script-risks-the-secret-to-hollywood-yes/
- Sep 26, 202523 min
38: Heartfelt Christmas Screenwriting - Director's Tips
Unlock the secrets to memorable Christmas TV scripts. Director Heather Hawthorn Doyle shares why cozy visuals—like gestures and silence—speak louder than dialogue, and how emotional arcs and budget-friendly writing help your holiday screenplay stand out. For an action checklist, the show notes and the transcript - go here: Podcast:https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/38-heartfelt-christmas-screenwriting-directors-tips YouTube: https://youtu.be/IDOmOI4BtP8
- Aug 27, 202516 min
37: What Makes Producers Say Yes?
Producer Eric Jarboe shares insider tips on what producers truly want in Christmas scripts. He explains how to craft emotionally engaging characters and avoid clichés. Use his advice to make your screenplay irresistible to decision-makers. In this episode, successful producer Eric Jarboe, co-founder of Happy Accidents and producer of over 130 films, reveals exactly what producers want. He breaks down the value of an emotionally resonant Christmas theme. Moreover, he highlights the need for compelling characters with clear objectives. Every story benefits from meaningful transformations that delight audiences. Watch the YouTube interview here: https://youtu.be/ZCTbL8zePao For all the show notes, an action checklist and transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/37-what-makes-producers-say-yes/
- Jul 26, 202535 min
36 📩 Email Query Tips for Christmas Scripts
Hallmark screenwriter Nina Weinman shares how to craft email queries that grab attention and pitch Christmas scripts that stand out. Plus, learn how to build a diverse script portfolio, why targeted producer outreach beats contests, and how persistence and self-advocacy can accelerate your screenwriting success. Tune in to make your Christmas script stand out! Check out the YouTube interview here: : https://youtu.be/JIl_FqzZPV8
- May 29, 202547 min
35:🎄Want to Sell Your Holiday Script? Start Here
Want to break into the Christmas movie market? Writer-Director-Producer Emily Ting shares how to sell your holiday script, what producers want, and why feel-good, original ideas stand out. The Christmas movie market is hotter than ever. Hallmark, Netflix, and otherer platforms are constantly looking for fresh, heartwarming scripts. But what does it really take to sell one? Award-winning writer, director, and producer Emily Ting shares her path from writing a passion project to landing a deal with Hallmark. In this episode, you'll learn why original ideas matter, how to reach producers directly, and why persistence can pay off—even if your script sits for years. For the show notes and an action checklist – go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/35-want-to-sell-your-holiday-script-start-here/ For the YouTube interview - go here: https://youtu.be/ygpCPH68ZMg
About Christmas Movie Screenwriter
Industry pros offer advice on writing, producing, and selling Christmas TV-movies.
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