Episode #99

Writing Adaptions

What makes a good adaptation? In this episode, Jennifer chats with screenwriter Victoria Male about the art of adapting material for the screen. Victoria shares her journey into screenwriting, inspired by her love of historical storytelling, and offers practical tools for reimagining stories with personal truth. The conversation explores how to approach adaptation, from acquiring rights through shopping agreements to better understanding intellectual property to structuring a TV pilot or screenplay to preparation with mood boards, cheat sheets, and outlines for staying true to the source material. They discuss balancing instinct and research, collaborating with authors, and honoring the original material while finding your unique way to tell a story that feels both personal and universal. They also talk about researching the market, connecting with collaborators who share your vision, and the importance of loving your project. Whether adapting a novel, article, or historical event, this episode empowers creators to reimagine stories authentically and bring them to life in new ways.