Spec Script Deal: “When Michael Met Carrie… and Other People”

Universal Pictures acquires romantic comedy spec script “When Michael Met Carrie… and Other People” written by Meredith Dawson. From Variety:

Universal Pictures nabbed rights to “When Michael Met Carrie… and Other People,” a spec script from Meredith Dawson, who is also attached to direct. Paul Feig (“Bridesmaids,” “A Simple Favor”) is attached to produce.

Plot details are currently unknown, though the creative team promises it’s a new take on the romantic comedy.

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The acquisition of “When Michael Met Carrie… and Other People” comes as Universal and studio’s chief Donna Langley are diversifying its pool of directors with more female filmmakers. The studio recently tapped “Black Panther” cinematographer Rachel Morrison to helm “Flint Strong” in what will be her directorial debut. Also at Universal, Stella Meghie is directing “The Photograph,” Gandja Monteiro is helming “Talent Show” and Sophia Takal is directing “Black Christmas.”

And the major Hollywood studios continue to take baby steps on the diversity front. Good to see. Also good to see the romantic comedy sub-genre continue to make a comeback. Two years ago, it was dead. After Netflix dove into this bucket big-time and the success of movies like Crazy Rich Asians, rom-coms have reemerged as a vibrant arena for movies.

Dawson is repped by CAA.

By my count, this is the 25th spec script deal of 2019.

There were 30 spec script deals year-to-date in 2018.