10 Best Movie Production Companies That Accept Query Letters

When aspiring screenwriters and filmmakers are looking to break into the industry, one of the most common ways to get noticed is by sending query letters to production companies. Query letters are a way for writers to pitch their ideas and scripts to production companies in the hopes of getting their work picked up and turned into a movie. However, not all production companies accept query letters, making it crucial for writers to target the right ones. In this article, we will explore the 10 best movie production companies that accept query letters, providing valuable insights and examples along the way.

1. Warner Bros. Pictures

Warner Bros. Pictures is one of the oldest and most renowned production companies in the industry. They have produced countless successful films, including the Harry Potter series, The Dark Knight trilogy, and The Matrix. Warner Bros. accepts query letters through their website, providing an opportunity for aspiring writers to pitch their ideas directly to the company.

2. Universal Pictures

Universal Pictures is another major player in the film industry. They have produced iconic movies such as Jurassic Park, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, and Jaws. Universal Pictures accepts query letters through their website as well, making it accessible for writers to submit their ideas for consideration.

3. Paramount Pictures

Paramount Pictures has a long history of producing successful films, including the Mission: Impossible series, Titanic, and The Godfather. They accept query letters through their website, providing an avenue for writers to showcase their work to one of the industry’s leading production companies.

4. Lionsgate Films

Lionsgate Films is known for producing a wide range of films, from blockbuster franchises like The Hunger Games to critically acclaimed movies like La La Land. They accept query letters through their website, giving writers an opportunity to pitch their ideas to this influential production company.

5. Focus Features

Focus Features is a subsidiary of Universal Pictures and focuses on producing independent and art-house films. They have produced movies such as Brokeback Mountain, Moonrise Kingdom, and Dallas Buyers Club. Focus Features accepts query letters through their website, providing a platform for writers with unique and unconventional ideas.

6. A24

A24 is a relatively new production company but has quickly gained recognition for its critically acclaimed films. They have produced movies like Lady Bird, Moonlight, and Ex Machina. A24 accepts query letters through their website, making it an attractive option for writers looking to work with a company known for its artistic and innovative projects.

7. Blumhouse Productions

Blumhouse Productions is known for producing low-budget horror films that often become box office hits. They have produced movies like Get Out, Paranormal Activity, and The Purge. Blumhouse Productions accepts query letters through their website, providing an opportunity for writers with horror or thriller scripts to pitch their ideas.

8. Amblin Partners

Amblin Partners is a production company founded by renowned filmmaker Steven Spielberg. They have produced movies such as Schindler’s List, Saving Private Ryan, and Jurassic Park. Amblin Partners accepts query letters through their website, offering a chance for writers to pitch their ideas to a company associated with one of the most influential directors in the industry.

9. New Line Cinema

New Line Cinema is a subsidiary of Warner Bros. Pictures and focuses on producing genre films, including horror, comedy, and fantasy. They have produced movies like The Conjuring, The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and Austin Powers. New Line Cinema accepts query letters through their website, providing an avenue for writers with genre-specific scripts to pitch their ideas.

10. Legendary Entertainment

Legendary Entertainment is known for producing big-budget films, particularly in the fantasy and superhero genres. They have produced movies like Godzilla, Pacific Rim, and the Dark Knight trilogy. Legendary Entertainment accepts query letters through their website, giving writers an opportunity to pitch their ideas for epic and visually stunning projects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is a query letter?

A query letter is a formal letter sent by writers to production companies, agents, or publishers to pitch their ideas or scripts. It typically includes a brief summary of the project, the writer’s background, and contact information. Query letters are an essential tool for aspiring writers to get their work noticed in the industry.

2. How should I format my query letter?

When formatting a query letter, it is important to keep it concise and professional. Start with a brief introduction, followed by a summary of your project, including the genre, logline, and main characters. Include any relevant writing experience or credentials and conclude with your contact information. It is crucial to proofread your letter for any grammatical or spelling errors before sending it.

3. How do I find the right production company to send my query letter to?

Research is key when finding the right production company to send your query letter to. Look for companies that have produced films similar to your project in terms of genre or style. Check their submission guidelines on their website to ensure they accept query letters. It is also helpful to network and attend industry events to connect with professionals who can provide recommendations.

4. What should I do if a production company rejects my query letter?

Rejection is a common part of the writing and filmmaking process. If a production company rejects your query letter, it is important not to get discouraged. Take the feedback, if provided, into consideration and continue to refine your work. Consider submitting to other production companies or exploring alternative avenues, such as film festivals or independent production companies.

5. Can I send my script along with the query letter?

Most production companies prefer to receive query letters without the full script initially. If they are interested in your project based on the query letter, they will typically request the full script for further review. It is important to follow the submission guidelines provided by each production company to increase your chances of getting noticed.

6. How long does it typically take to hear back from a production company?

The response time from production companies can vary greatly. Some companies may respond within a few weeks, while others may take several months or longer. It is important to be patient and not to follow up too soon. If a production company has not responded within the specified timeframe mentioned in their submission guidelines, it is acceptable to send a polite follow-up email to inquire about the status of your query.

Summary

Query letters are a valuable tool for aspiring screenwriters and filmmakers to get their work noticed by production companies. By targeting the right companies that accept query letters, writers increase their chances of