Film Pitching Research

How to make a good film pitch;

1) Make it interesting, don't be afraid to try something unusual that will surprise the producers and make you stand out. Miranda July acted out the story for her film using finger puppets, it was bizarre but got her the deal.

2) Grab the producers attention and immediately let people know exactly what sort of world the film exists in from the characters to the main thrust of the plot. Producers often complain of pitches being too long (more than an hour) make it sharp and punchy.

3) Master the 60 second pitch, major production companies are often too busy to see everyone in detail, if you can't get a proper meeting then its useful to master the minute pitch and make sure you hit the producers with key info that will make them want to buy your script.

4) Show emotion; provide the buyer with a positive emotional experience and convince them that when your movie is made your story will create a strong emotional experience for the people buying the tickets, books and DVDs.

5) Review your story, determine the key, most powerful elements. This will help convey its emotional power and commercial potential. The story should include;
- A protagonist/hero.
- The hero's desire to fulfil his goals.
- Conflict, the seemingly insurmountable obstacles the hero faces.
- Antecedents, previously successful films that will convince the buyer there is a market for your story.

6) Prepare a script of exactly what you're going to say, include key elements.

7) Rehearse, practice your pitch, rewrite it and practice some more. You must know your script so well that it becomes natural and conversational, this helps you prepare for any questions.

8) Research your target market, compile a list of specific buyers, agents, editors and producers you will pursue.

9) Establishing a rapport with your buyers will create a connection and make them more likely to do business.

9) End on a definitive note, the buyers will have to read your script at the end so it is best to end authoritatively ie; "so, do you have any questions about the story or would you like me to send you a copy?"

10) Respond to the buyers comments, questions and requests and make sure you answer quickly and don't waffle on.

Examples of successful film pitches; The Kick starter Scheme.

Blue like Jazz;
- 2003 Donald Miller came up a memoir that focused on forgiveness, honesty and growing up.
-2009 it was developed into a movie.
- Crew was hired and a film made. Initial budget was around $345,992.
-2010 Donald Miller announced that the film was indefinitely postponed due to lack of funding.
-Fans of the book came together under the kick starter Scheme and donated the money needed to fund the film with production set to be restarted in 6 months.