Acquisitions Trainee, Sony Pictures Classics - Summer 2025

As an Acquisitions Trainee at Sony Pictures Classics, you will play a vital role in the film acquisition process. Key responsibilities include writing coverage for scripts and finished films, conducting research on upcoming titles, and reviewing box office performance metrics. You’ll also provide important market research to help identify potential audiences and assess the popularity of films, all while working in a collaborative and fast-paced environment.

To qualify for the Acquisitions Trainee position at Sony Pictures Classics, candidates should have a keen interest in both American independent and international films, a passion for the acquisitions process, and the ability to multitask effectively. Additionally, applicants should be enrolled in an accredited college or university and must be available to work full-time for the summer. Being able to read and evaluate scripts is essential, and proficiency in a foreign language is a plus!

The work environment for an Acquisitions Trainee at Sony Pictures Classics is dynamic and collaborative. You’ll be part of a passionate team dedicated to sourcing and evaluating films. The office operates Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 6 PM, and while predominantly in-office, there may be options for hybrid work arrangements. The culture encourages mentorship and learning, ensuring you gain valuable hands-on experience.

The Acquisitions Trainee role at Sony Pictures Classics requires full-time availability (40 hours a week) during the summer session, which spans from May through August. However, the start and end dates are flexible to accommodate academic schedules. This means you can gain valuable experience without conflicting with your commitments to your studies.

An Acquisitions Trainee at Sony Pictures Classics can expect to gain significant knowledge about the film acquisition process, as well as hands-on experience in script evaluation and market research. You'll enhance your skills while networking with industry professionals and learning about the broader film landscape. This role serves as a stepping stone for anyone passionate about a career in film or entertainment.

When answering this question, emphasize your passion for independent films and your desire to be part of the film-making process. You might talk about specific films or directors that inspire you, and how being part of the acquisitions team aligns with your career aspirations in the film industry.

Use this opportunity to demonstrate your organizational skills. Talk about tools or techniques you use for managing tasks, such as creating to-do lists or using project management software, and provide an example of a time you successfully handled multiple responsibilities.

For this question, discuss any experience you have in script analysis or film critique. Explain your approach to evaluating a film's strengths and weaknesses, emphasizing your analytical skills and passion for storytelling.

Express your understanding of how market research helps identify potential audiences and assess a film’s likelihood of success. Discuss how this research informs decisions on acquisitions, highlighting how it aligns with the strategic vision of Sony Pictures Classics.

Highlight specific skills relevant to the role, such as strong analytical abilities, effective communication skills, and a deep passion for film. Provide examples of how you’ve demonstrated these skills in past experiences, making your case for why you would be a great fit.

Share strategies such as following industry news, attending film festivals, or networking with professionals in the field. This demonstrates your commitment to staying informed and engaged in the industry, which is essential for the role.

Discuss your appreciation for the unique stories and perspectives that independent films offer. Explain how working on these projects aligns with your career interests and how you believe they contribute to the diversity of cinema.

Illustrate your understanding of script coverage by outlining the elements you would include - such as a summary, thematic analysis, and recommendations. Mention the importance of being clear and concise while capturing the essence of the film.

Share insights on factors such as marketing, audience engagement, star power, and critical reviews. Connect these factors to your understanding of the data-driven side of film acquisition and how Sony Pictures Classics approaches these challenges.

Talk about your openness to feedback and how you view it as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Provide an example demonstrating a time you've taken criticism positively and improved your work as a result.