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Garrett and Daren break down the real differences between a spec script written on speculation, no limits, showcase your voice and a production script written to be made, budget-aware, strategic. They cover when to write each, why treatments can sometimes be a smarter move, and how leverage shifts depending on your role as writer or filmmaker. Plus: updates on fall festivals and Garrett’s third act grind on Where the Dog Heals.

Spec = calling card. Written to showcase voice and originality; leverage lives in story resonance.
Production = blueprint. Written to be made; leverage comes from feasibility, attachments, and momentum.
Treatments are better then specs (often). Easier for producers to read, faster to generate, clearer story signal.
Constraints unlock creativity. Small cast/locations can make indie projects viable.
Leverage compounds. Small production scripts can open doors Nolan, Gerwig paths.

CHAPTERS
00:00 Festival season & October plans
03:00 Defining spec vs. production scripts
10:00 Budget/scope realities
16:00 Portfolio specs vs. existing IP
22:00 Production scripts as blueprints
31:00 Camera direction dos & don’ts
35:00 Why treatments often win
47:00 Case studies: Nolan & Gerwig
54:00 Garrett’s Where the Dog Heals update
59:00 Audience-building & leverage

“A spec is imagination first; a production script is logistics first.”

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