TV Writers Vault - Industry Executive Interview Alfonso Guerra - Executive Producer - Wide Angle Productions Group, Inc. Copyright © TVWritersVault.com   The TV Writers Vault is pleased to have Executive Producer Alfonso Guerra share his perspective on the industry with our own Scott Manville. Mr. Guerra is an Executive Producer of television and DVD produced series for Wide Angle Productions Group, Inc. We welcome him in our continuing series of executive interviews to bring our members real first-hand insight of the inner-workings of Hollywood. TVWV: Thanks for taking time from your busy schedule, Alfonso. Can you share with us your role within the television industry, and your company? Guerra: I'm a partner in our firm, responsible for development and production of our television projects. TVWV: What got you into the industry, and what keeps you going? Guerra: My Mom and Sister have been TV producers for many years, and I've worked as a voice-talent in the business for more than 10 years, but it was my wife who invited me into the world of production. She's a Producer/Director who founded Wide Angle in 1998 working primarily in TV commercial production, news and entertainment projects. As she was in the process of launching a new travel series for a network client, she asked me to join her and lend a hand. Optimism, faith, and love keep me going in general. As well as a full appreciation of the unique opportunity that I have as a Producer, to introduce and create works that connect with diverse audiences. TVWV: What types of projects do you develop and produce? Guerra: We're involved in sitcoms, romantic-comedies, drama, lifestyle, mystery, and dark comedy. We've also produced lifestyle series for TV and the home video market in the areas of travel, culinary, and yoga content. TVWV: As a person who carries a project from concept through physical production, what do you see as the most important element in bringing a project together for a Network? What really gives a project legs? Guerra: Beyond a great story idea, creative/talented writers, and a production team focused on working in harmony and efficiency. It helps that a Network is looking for your type of material at the time. Attaching talent to the project in any way doesn't hurt either! TVWV: If you can share some advice with our member Writers, what can you tell them is the most important aspect of writing treatments to pitch Producers? Guerra: Create a story that really moves you and communicates that vision in your script, supporting materials and pitch. TVWV: In your experience, what's the difference between pitching a concept for a scripted show and a reality series? Guerra: We're involved primarily in scripted work so I would have to say material and a long term vision of where the series will be a few seasons down the road. The longer the better. In reality shows there are many factors to consider; casting being an important one. TVWV: How has the development and programming landscape changed over the past 5 years from your view? Guerra: Development is faster and the medium continues to grow. There are enormous possibilities for all types of work around the world. Imagine the many genres and topics you can write for on television, then think of the global marketplace. We offer networks fully developed pilots/series ideas and our services as writers/producers to make sure each program has a good chance to succeed. TVWV: What are the networks currently looking for in new programming? Guerra: The ones we're engaged with (english and spanish language networks) are seeking comedy, romance, drama and lifestyle for families, young people and diverse adult ranges. TVWV: When taking a meeting with a Writer or Producer to potentially collaborate, what are some things you're hoping to find in that person or project? Guerra: An inspired source of creative content for the type of material we may be seeking, someone who can get along comfortably with diverse types of people, and a writer/prodcer someone who wants to develop a long relationship with our company. TVWV: Without giving away any confidential info, can you describe any standout projects you have on the table at the moment? Guerra: I hope to let you know something very soon. I can say that among the many projects we're offering, we've been working on a unique dramedy/series story that we've created that's targeted at North American broadcasters. TVWV: Is it easier for a writer to break into the industry with a reality-based concept, or a scripted show? Guerra: Couldn't tell you. But timing and talent help every time. TVWV: We've been proud to have you as an active member of the TV Writers Vault. How do you feel about the service we provide to the industry? Guerra: Your service is tremendously important because it instantly connects writers and producers from around the world with a shared common passion. It's an alternative route to a market which may not always be as welcoming as we'd like. TVWV: How many projects a year do you option for development, and how many do you handle at any given time ? Guerra: We're presently working with a pool of Euro and US writers from whom we're introducing 11 scripts/projects to the North American market. Five in particular are getting most of our attention this year. TVWV: Thanks for sharing, Alfonso. We look forward to continued success. Guerra: Thanks Scott!  Share