Is it considered "unprofessional" to ask...

[Hazeem]

Is it fine to ask about the sort of projects producers are after if they explain (upon querying) that your "script is not the sort of thing they want to produce"? As in, there is an implication they don't normally produce a horror, for instance.
I don't see any problem with asking a producer about the sort of projects they're after but I'm always a little paranoid about coming off as unprofessional - you know how it is.

[suzbays]

I think it's less unprofessional to ask *before* query, though that's when you should do your homework and check out their credits, etc. Asking them after they've turned you down would be both unprofessional and could put them on the spot. There could be many reasons why they say, "it's not the sort of thing we produce."

If you've gotten the above excuse as a result of an e-query service like scriptblaster, then you really shouldn't ask them. In situations like that, you can do your homework and save that company's name for the next time you have something they do produce.

Suz

[Hasil Adkins]

It's a pass. Move on.BWE is right, but there's no harm in asking. You'll likely get the answer, "we're really looking for [diametric opposite of the genre and style of your script]."

[kidcharlemagne]

I've asked a number of times. What's the big deal? Unless they are really only known for one genre of course it's good to know what they're looking for. Your next script may be perfect for them.

I was in a meeting with a company that was only known for broad comedy but the exec. hinted that they might move out of that space and I asked if him if he would consider a more character-driven comedy, the exec, said yes, and I pitched my new script idea and he LOVED it. He'll be on my list when the script is done. Don't ask, don't get.

[odriftwood]

I ask even if I think I know the answer....

[phatgirl]

Yep, I absolutely agree that you should ask away. Some time ago, I was asked to submit my rom-com to someone affiliated with Steven Shainberg, as he was looking to do "something different" for his next project. This was after he directed Secretary. You have no idea what people are looking for unless you ask. It's not unprofessional at all.

[Clutch]

There's also nothing wrong with asking them if they can refer you to someone who may be interested. Worst Case Scenario: they say "no."