Alma Media Lab’s Ambitious Publishing-to-Screen Model

Francisca Alegría and Fernanda Urrejola, showrunners of Prime Video’s “The House of the Spirits,” are leading a new slate of projects at Alma Media Lab. The company has gained attention for its unique approach to developing stories: publishing them as books before adapting them for screen.

This methodology is inspired by successful companies like Hello Sunshine and Alloy Entertainment, but Alma Media Lab brings a distinct twist. According to Coca Gómez, co-founder and chief content officer, the company’s approach adds value to creators’ work at every stage, from refining the story on the page to publishing it as a book.

Gómez’s background in television, combined with her philosophical foundation, gives Alma Media Lab a unique edge. Her experience has shaped some of Chile’s most memorable stories, including “Cerro Alegre” and “Machos.” Now, she’s bringing this expertise to the U.S. Hispanic and Latin American market.

Alma Media Lab’s ambitious slate includes projects from prominent writers like Carla Guelfenbein and Federico Arellano. The company holds exclusive rights to adapt Guelfenbein’s novels, including “In the Distance With You” and “The Nature of Desire.” These stories promise to captivate audiences worldwide, drawing viewers into a world they’ll be eager to experience.

By prioritizing the written word, Alma Media Lab is challenging traditional industry norms. This approach also opens up new opportunities for creators, who can now retain their rights while still working with the company. The potential reach of these projects is vast, given that 600 million people speak Spanish worldwide.

Alma Media Lab’s ambition to tell stories rooted in Latin America will undoubtedly redefine what audiences expect from our countries’ storytelling. With Alegría and Urrejola at the helm, it’s clear that this slate of projects has the potential to make a significant impact.

As the industry continues to evolve, new models like Alma Media Lab are emerging. These innovative approaches will likely shape the future of storytelling, pushing the boundaries of what we can expect from our favorite shows and movies. With its unique blend of strategic storytelling and philosophical foundation, Alma Media Lab is poised to make a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

One key aspect that sets Alma Media Lab apart from other publishing-to-screen companies is its commitment to protecting creators’ rights. By allowing authors to maintain their voice and control over their work, the company is establishing a new standard for collaboration in the industry. This approach not only benefits the creators but also ensures that buyers receive high-quality material that’s ready for adaptation.

As Alma Media Lab continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how they balance their ambition with the demands of the market. With a slate of projects that includes adaptations from prominent writers and a commitment to strategic storytelling, there’s no doubt that this company is on the cusp of something big.