Your Step by Step Guide on How to Option a Book

Learn from John-Paul Sarni owner of book to screen production company Dimma, recently announced in Deadline!

JP has worked on book deals with HBO, ABC, MTV, and Laurence Fishburne’s Cinema Gypsy Productions, and recently led Stampede Ventures’ global book-to-screen adaptations!

Walk away with a sample term sheet and a step-by-step, actionable process to option your first book for film or TV with confidence!

Every year, thousands of books are published, and hidden among them are stories just waiting to be adapted for film or TV. In this exclusive Stage 32 webinar, you’ll learn how to spot high-potential titles, confidently approach authors and agents, and turn the right book into a project that excites producers and audiences alike. You’ll gain a clear roadmap for navigating the optioning process efficiently and strategically.

More than two-thirds of last year’s top films and TV series were based on existing IP, often starting as a book. Books provide a tested story and built-in audience, making them a strong foundation for adaptation. Securing the rights doesn’t have to be intimidating when you know the right steps, and JP will teach you the full process—from identifying valuable titles to making offers and closing deals.

Your host John-Paul Sarni has almost two decades of experience as a international producer, executive, and writer. He recently launched the book to screen production company Dimma, which was announced in Deadline that specializes in optioning books for the film and TV screen.

He is the former EVP, Head of International Content & IP Acquisitions at Stampede Ventures, where he oversaw a global slate including a first-look deal with CBS Studios International, a joint venture with KOJO Studios in Australia, and projects across 15+ countries. He executive produced GOLD DIGGERS (ABC/CBS Studios, AACTA nominee) and THE DARKNESS (Síminn/CBS Studios, dir. Lasse Hallström). He has also held senior roles at HBO Films, aid+abet (working on PARIAH and UNA NOCHE), Sonar Entertainment, and Laurence Fishburne’s Cinema Gypsy Productions, developing BLACK-ISH and Emmy winner SNOWY DAY for Amazon. Originally from Andover, MA, John-Paul splits his time between Italy and California and is a member of the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.

By the end of this webinar, you’ll understand how to evaluate books before reading them, plan your approach to authors and agents, structure and negotiate offers, and manage the optioning timeline. You’ll walk away confident, equipped with insider strategies, and ready to bring your project to life!

PLUS! You will receive the following handout to help you:

• Sample Term Sheet