Michael Beas, the Founder and CEO of Atlas Elite Publishing, discussed strategies to get your book on film.
Background on Michael Beas
Michael Alexander Beas is a renowned leader in publishing, book marketing, and brand management, with over 12 years of Fortune 500 experience before transitioning into entrepreneurship.
He is the founder of Atlas Elite Publishing, the force behind eBook Marketing Solutions, and CEO of Raver Magazine, a major publication in the dance music industry. Michael has rebranded over 1,000 books into bestsellers and authored 7,000+ articles, solidifying his authority in book marketing.
His expertise in SEO and digital strategy empowers authors and music professionals to navigate the online landscape successfully. Recognized as the Top Literary Consultant in the Country, his contributions have earned him membership in CEO Clubs International.
With degrees in Business Administration, Management, and Marketing from Nova Southeastern University, he continues to expand his influence, including his work in prison rehabilitation reform and equestrian breeding as the Co-Founder of Beas Family Farms.
Q: Why should authors start thinking about film potential early in the writing process?
Michael Beas: Because storytelling is no longer confined to the page. If you want your book to become a film, it needs to translate visually and emotionally to the screen. That means building scenes, characters, and pacing that feel cinematic. Think about how your story looks, sounds, and moves—before you even finish the manuscript.
Q: What are the first steps an author should take if they want to adapt their book into a screenplay or pitch it to film producers?
Beas: The first step is building a brand around the book. You need traction—reviews, awards, media coverage, sales. That’s what makes a producer take you seriously. Then you need a solid one-pager or pitch deck that highlights the hook, the characters, and why it’s perfect for the screen. Bonus points if you’ve already partnered with a screenwriter or have a treatment ready.
Q: How involved is Atlas Elite in helping authors move toward film deals?
Beas: We integrate it into the brand strategy from day one if it’s part of the author’s vision. That means identifying the cinematic potential, building a fanbase, leveraging PR, and connecting with entertainment professionals. We’ve built relationships in both publishing and media that allow us to bridge that gap in a real, meaningful way.
Q: What genres tend to get the most attention from film producers?
Beas: High-concept thrillers, sci-fi with a twist, character-driven dramas with strong emotional arcs, and stories based on true events tend to perform well. But at the end of the day, it’s about originality and marketability. If the story feels fresh and the characters are unforgettable, you’ve got a shot.
Q: Are there mistakes authors make when trying to adapt their books for film?
Beas: Yes—one of the biggest is pitching too early. Producers aren’t interested in “just an idea.” They want a proven product. Another mistake is not understanding the film industry’s needs. A book can be 400 pages and internal—a film needs visual moments, dialogue, pacing, and arc that work in 90 to 120 minutes.
Q: Is self-publishing a disadvantage when it comes to film interest?
Beas: Not anymore. In fact, I’ve seen self-published authors get more attention than traditionally published ones because they own all the rights and move faster. If your book is professionally produced and performs well, it’s an asset—not a limitation.
Q: How important are book awards and bestseller status in attracting Hollywood interest?
Beas: They’re critical. Awards and bestseller status are social proof—signals that your book has quality, relevance, and audience appeal. A credible award or a strong sales rank tells producers that you’re not just an author with a dream, you’re a brand with momentum. It gives your book weight and legitimacy in pitch meetings.
Q: What final advice would you give to authors dreaming of a screen adaptation?
Beas: Don’t wait for Hollywood to find you—build something that makes them come to you. Awards, reviews, buzz, and a strong brand are your proof of concept. When you control the narrative and own your story, you’re not just selling a book—you’re offering a complete vision.
For more information on book publisher Michael Beas, follow him on Instagram.
