Creating A Film Pitch Deck: Secure A Deal for Your Movie idea

Pitching a movie is like selling a dream in a bottle. You’ve got the idea, but now you need the right tools to convince producers. A well-crafted pitch can make all the difference, as only 1% of movie ideas turn into films.

Key Takeaways:

• Finding the right pitching opportunities at film festivals and online platforms increases project visibility and success.
• Knowing every detail of your film project, from plot to budget, builds confidence with studio executives.
• A clear and captivating movie pitch, combined with persistence, improves engagement by up to 50%.

This guide will show you how to pitch a movie, covering everything from key elements to effective delivery techniques. Master these steps and increase your chances of turning your vision into reality.

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What is a Movie Pitch?

A movie pitch is like the first impression in a job interview—it needs to grab attention fast. It's a short, compelling presentation of your movie idea to producers, directors, or a production company. A great pitch deck gives the key details, like plot, characters, and themes.

A movie pitch can make or break your project. So it's crucial to get it right. The pitch is your chance to sell your story and secure funding.

Every good movie pitch includes a clear summary of the plot, key characters, and the film’s tone. Statistics show that a strong pitch increases the chance of success by 50%. Always make sure your pitch deck is polished and professional.

If you don’t believe in yourself, why should I?

Patricia Weiser: The Producer for “Bigger, Stronger, Faster*,” and “D.O.G.S. of Mars

So, present your movie idea confidently, like you’re telling a thrilling story. Keep it short and concise—don’t be overwhelmed with details. Make your listeners feel like they’re watching the movie in their minds.

What are the Types of Movie Pitches?

In the film industry, pitching is like planting seeds—you need the right approach to make your movie pitch grow. There are different pitches, each tailored to different situations and audiences. Let’s explore two common types: the standard pitch and the elevator pitch.

The Standard Pitch

The standard pitch is a detailed verbal pitch presented to production companies. It’s used to explain your movie idea in depth when you have time. This pitch typically covers the film genre, plot, and key characters, offering a clear project vision.

“Pride and Prejudice” and “Lady Bird” are great example of the Standard Pitch movie. The main premise is structured around nuanced components like character development, dialogue, or style in these movies.

Key Features

• Lasts around 15-20 minutes
• Explain the full story, including main characters
• Highlights the film genre and target audience
• Uses visuals or pitch decks to engage listeners
• Allows time for feedback and questions

The Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a short, snappy presentation that grabs attention quickly. It should be short enough to explain in an elevator ride—around 30 seconds. Perfect for quick encounters, this pitch focuses on the core idea.

A few example of the elevator pitch movies are "Jaws", "The Man from Earth", "A Quiet Place", "Taken." The plot of these movies are thrilling and quickly grabs the attention of viewers.

Key Features

• Lasts 30-60 seconds
• Focuses on the core concept and key characters
• Tailored to spark interest quickly
• No time for pitch decks or detailed explanations
• Designed to be memorable and persuasive

How to Pitch a Movie – Step-by-Step

Pitching a movie is like selling a dream. With the right steps, you can turn your film idea into reality.

“I respond to a fresh vision and an original voice."

Vincent Grashaw: The producer for “What Josiah Saw,” “And Then I Go,” and “Coldwater”

Follow this step-by-step guide to boost your chances of success.

Step 01: Find the Right People to Pitch To

In the entertainment industry, pitching a film project is like fishing—you must cast your line in the right pond. Look for studio executives and independent filmmakers actively seeking projects in your film genre. Research their past work and interests. It's essential to understand what type of stories they’re looking for.

• Attend industry events and pitch festivals.
• Network with professionals at film screenings or conferences.
• Look for production companies that have produced other films similar to your idea.
• Consider hiring a manager or agent to connect with key decision-makers.
• Use online platforms to pitch directly to studio executives or producers.

Step 02: Source the Best Pitching Opportunities

Only some opportunities are the right ones. You need to pick the right setting to pitch your film project. Some of the best opportunities come from organized pitch festivals or private meetings with producers. You can also explore online options to reach a wider audience.

• Research pitch festivals in the entertainment industry.
• Join filmmaker networking events to meet potential backers.
• Submit your pitch to independent filmmakers on online platforms.
• Target festivals focused on your film genre to increase chances.
• Approach producers are known for taking risks on new film projects.

Step 03: Be Sure to Know Every Aspect of Your Film

When pitching, you need to be the master of your story. Knowing every aspect of your film project, from the traditional three-act structure to the minor details of your story arcs, will build confidence. Studio executives want someone who can articulate their vision clearly and effectively.

• Know your core element and theme.
• Be ready to explain how your story fits within the traditional three-act structure.
• Show how your film differs from other films in the same genre.
• Understand the key elements of your character's development and story arcs.
• Have a personal connection to the story to convey passion.

Step 04: Have an Answer Ready for Everything

Pitching a film project is like a job interview—you need to be prepared for anything. Studio executives and producers will ask questions that test your knowledge and commitment. From budget concerns to casting ideas, you need answers at your fingertips.

• Be prepared to discuss budget, financing, and shooting schedules.
• Have casting suggestions that align with your story arcs.
• Be ready to explain how your project fits into the current entertainment industry.
• Have a plan for marketing and distribution.
• Know how your film project can stand out in a competitive market.

In the entertainment industry, preparation and passion are vital to making your film project a reality.

Step 05: Demonstrate Your Passion and Confidence

When you pitch a movie idea, let your passion shine through. Confidence is contagious, and studio executives will feel it. Show your connection to the project and explain why this film matters. Use visual aids like storyboards or concept art to bring the story to life. A solid visual supplement can boost engagement by 30%. Remember, confidence is vital. Speak, keep eye contact, and believe in your idea.

Step 06: Check Back In

After the pitch, don’t just sit and wait—follow up. Send a cover letter or thank-you note to show professionalism. This helps keep your film project at the forefront of your mind. Check-in politely if you haven’t heard back in a few weeks. Many great projects succeed through persistence. Engaging with your potential audience regularly improves your chances by 50%.

How to Write a Movie Pitch

Writing a movie pitch is like crafting a compelling trailer. It must hook producers fast. With only 1% of film ideas produced, this guide will help increase your chances of success.

“Writers are not simply pitching one project. They are pitching themselves. From a producer’s perspective, I suppose I am more interested in building relationships that could potentially last longer than one film.”

Vincent Grashaw: The producer for “What Josiah Saw,” “And Then I Go,” and “Coldwater”

Who Are You

Before you dive into pitching your movie, introduce yourself. You’re not just selling a story; you're selling yourself. Tell producers why you're right to bring this project to life.

Mention your background in writing and any film experience, whether through writing competitions or past films. If you've worked with a producer before, highlight that. Confidence is vital—believe in your story, and they will, too. When creating a film, your passion should be evident.

Title Your Movie

A strong title can grab attention like a hook in a catchy song. Your movie title is the first thing producers and the audiences do, so make it count. Keep it short, memorable, and fitting to your story.

Think of it as the cover of a book—something that intrigues and invites curiosity. For example, successful films often have one to three-word titles that instantly capture the essence of the plot or characters.

Write a Logline

The perfect logline is the backbone of your pitch. It's a brief, one-sentence summary that should instantly convey the plot and core conflict. Think of it as the elevator pitch for your film—if you had just 30 seconds to describe your project to someone important, this is what you'd say. Keep it short, around 25-30 words.

Great loglines often use the "this meets that" formula, comparing the movie to successful films with similar vibes. Statistics show that producers are more likely to be interested when a logline paints a clear, enticing picture of the story.

Decide On a Genre

Choosing the right film genre is essential. It sets the tone for your movie and tells producers what to expect. Is it a thriller, a comedy, or a heartwarming drama? Ensure the plot, characters, and setting align with the chosen genre.

For example, an action-packed film needs high stakes and quick pacing, while a romantic comedy thrives on chemistry and witty dialogue. Understanding your genre inside and out will make your pitch stronger. According to industry statistics, films that stick to their genre conventions have a 20% higher chance of success.

Have a Clear Theme

The theme is the heart of your movie—the deeper message you want to convey. Whether it’s about love, loss, or redemption, the theme should be evident in your plot and characters. When pitching your project, explain how the theme weaves through the story and why it resonates with today’s audience.

Statistics show that films with a strong, relatable theme often connect better with viewers. Like sending snail mail, you want your message to arrive clearly and leave a lasting impression.

Drum Up a Summary

Every excellent movie pitch starts with a strong summary. This is the foundation of your entire concept. Keep it simple but compelling. Your goal is to hook industry professionals from the very beginning. Think of it as a trailer in written form, offering just enough to entice without revealing everything.

Make sure to cover the main ideas, including the plot and key events, in about 150 words. The synopsis should capture the heart of your story, including the stakes. According to statistics, 70% of pitches are judged within the first few lines, so make them count. A strong title can also add to the pitch's appeal.

Know Your Characters

Characters are the heartbeat of your script. They drive the plot and make your story relatable to the world. When pitching, know your characters inside and out. Provide a brief description of each, focusing on their motivations and challenges. Make it clear why these characters matter. Highlight their arcs and how they evolve throughout the story.

Whether you pitch a complex anti-hero or a loveable protagonist, creating characters with depth and purpose is crucial. Statistics show that stories with well-developed characters are 20% more likely to resonate with an audience.

“At the end of the day, independent filmmakers have to take ownership of the whole project from beginning to end, create a compelling story idea, and pitch who your audience is and how you’re going to get them.... It’s important to know who the characters are and what conflicts they have to overcome, and you have to make me feel a connection to them,”

Patricia Weiser: The Producer for “Bigger, Stronger, Faster*,” and “D.O.G.S. of Mars

Figure Out a Style

Your movie’s tone and genre set the stage for how the story will be told. Is your concept a dark thriller, a light-hearted comedy, or something in between? Decide on a tone that fits the overall genre of your story. This will guide how you present your pitch. If the tone is serious, keep the delivery professional.

If it’s a comedy, don’t be afraid to add some humor. According to data, pitches that match the screenplay's tone are 50% more likely to get pitched again. Clearly defining your style makes it easier for industry professionals to understand your vision.

List Your Comps

Listing comparable movies is a great way to help producers and executives understand where your story fits in the industry. Use the "this meets that" formula to explain your concept quickly and efficiently.

For example, if your script is a romantic comedy, you might say, “This is ‘When Harry Met Sally’ meets ‘La La Land’.” The point is to show how your screenplay connects with other successful ideas while standing out. Data shows pitches referencing successful films have a 30% higher chance of sparking interest.

Finish Strong

A solid conclusion is like the exclamation mark of your pitch—it leaves a lasting impact. Reinforce the main point of your story and remind your listener why it matters. End by briefly touching on how your script stands out in the crowded world of movies.

Restate the key themes and why this movie will resonate with today’s audience. According to statistics, pitches that finish confidently have a 40% higher chance of success. Ensure your last words linger in their minds, leaving them eager to know more.

What Makes a Movie Pitch Good?

A good movie pitch is like a spotlight—it captures attention immediately. To succeed, your pitch must be clear, engaging, and concise. Studies show that 65% of pitches fail without these key elements.

“Character-driven and dialogue-driven dramas do not translate into pitches. They may make wonderful scripts, but they are difficult to sell as pitches.”

Robert Kosberg - Producer of “Commando,” “Man's Best Friend,” and “12 Monkeys”

Conceptually Appropriate

A good movie pitch starts with an idea that fits its genre and audience. It’s like planting the right seed in the right soil. The concept must be appropriate for the industry standards and align with current trends and producers' needs. This is essential for grabbing their attention.

• Statistics show that 65% of pitches are rejected simply because the concept isn’t in line with what’s marketable.

To avoid this pitfall, research similar films and ensure your idea is fresh yet fits within an established framework. Balance originality with industry expectations for the best results.

Comprehensive but Concise

While you want to cover all important elements, a movie pitch should be short and sweet. It’s like telling the juiciest parts of a story without giving it all away. A successful pitch covers the main characters, plot, and genre, leaving the listener curious. Aim for clarity and brevity. Keep your pitch under five minutes, ensuring each word counts.

• According to statistics, pitches that run too long lose 30% of their audience’s interest.

Avoid overwhelming your listener with too much information. Focus on delivering a concise snapshot of your film project.

Clear

Clarity is vital when pitching your movie. A confusing or vague pitch will lose your audience faster than you can blink. Ensure your plot and characters are easy to follow, even for someone unfamiliar with the story. Use simple, direct language to explain the core of your concept.

• Data shows that clear and straightforward pitches are 50% more likely to be remembered.

If your pitch sounds like a puzzle, it won’t stick. Your audience should walk away with a solid understanding of the movie and its unique hook.

Captivating

A good movie pitch should leave the listener on the edge of their seat. It’s like watching the first five minutes of a gripping film. Your pitch must capture attention from the start, pulling the audience into the story and making them want more. Use emotion, vivid descriptions, and excitement in your delivery.

• Statistics show that captivating pitches have a 40% higher chance of leading to further discussion.

Hook them with the plot, make them care about the characters, and leave them excited about the possibilities of the film.

Where to Go to Pitch Movie Idea?

From pitch festivals to film studios, knowing where to go increases your success by 40%. Let's explore your best options.

Pitch Sites

One great way to pitch a movie idea is through online pitch sites. These platforms are like a digital marketplace for ideas. Many producers use them to discover new projects. Some sites even allow you to submit your script directly. Statistics show that 15% of films produced today started as online submissions. It’s a convenient way to reach industry professionals without leaving home.

Film Festivals

Film festivals are a goldmine for networking. Many successful movies began as ideas pitched at festivals. These events attract producers, agents, and film investment companies looking for the next big thing. According to data, films showcased at festivals have a 40% higher chance of being picked up by a studio.

Writing Competitions

Winning a writing competition is like getting a golden ticket. Many of these contests are judged by film industry insiders, giving you a chance to get noticed. If you win or place high, your work gets in front of the right people. Data shows that 12% of winning scripts from competitions turn into films.

Pitch Festivals

Pitch festivals are events explicitly designed for movie pitches. It’s like speed dating for ideas. You get a few minutes to pitch your concept to producers, agents, and other filmmakers. This face-to-face interaction is invaluable for building connections.

Film Investment Companies

Film investment companies specialize in financing projects. Pitching to them is vital if you’re looking for funding. These companies usually invest in projects with strong commercial potential.

Studios Accepting Unsolicited Scripts

Some studios accept unsolicited scripts. While rare, it’s worth researching which ones do. Always check their submission guidelines before sending your work.

Agents

An agent can open doors to film industry professionals. They can submit your movie idea to studios, investors, and producers, increasing your chances of success.

Summing Up

Pitching a movie is challenging and exciting, a valid rite of passage. Remember, even if you hear "no," it doesn’t mean the end. Keep pitching and refining your concept. Statistics show that persistence increases success rates by 50%. Believe in your movie idea and stay determined.

Like any great film, your journey may have twists, but dedication is the key to seeing your project come to life. Keep your pitch clear, passionate, and polished; your movie could soon hit the big screen.

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