You may think your work is done once you finish writing your script. However, you still need to turn your story into reality, which means you need to pitch it to producers or agents.
Many people in charge of film financing and production hear countless pitches nearly every day. The ones that stand out are compelling stories delivered with passion and clarity.
Your pitch, therefore, needs to convey your story’s topic, and why it’s compelling and worth investing in.
If you fail to articulate why your screenplay is unique, producers and agents may doubt its potential. All the effort you poured into the content production process will be in vain.
If you want to see your script on the screen, you need to nail your pitch.
Presenting Your Script Perfectly
Here are some tips to help you nail your pitch and be a step closer to bringing your script to life:
- Go over and improve your script.
You may think your script is perfect, but a fresh pair of eyes can reveal areas or scenes that need improvement.
Start by looking for plot holes, awkward dialogue, or scenes that drag. Sometimes, adding a few lines can make a character more relatable or a plot twist more impactful.
Once you’ve made your improvements, ask a person you trust to read the script and point out issues you might have missed.
Producers want to see that you’re serious about your work. A refined, well-structured script shows that you care about the story and have put in a lot of effort to make it great.
- Use the right script format.
Producers are used to reading scripts that follow industry standards. Presenting one that looks sloppy or unconventional can immediately turn them off.
Make sure your script follows the format producers and agents expect. It should contain a front cover, a title page with your name and contact information, the script, and a back cover. Use the standard font Courier or New Courier with a font size of 12.
Stick to one-inch margins on all sides and double-space between dialogue and action lines. Make sure your scenes are clearly marked with sluglines, and use proper formatting for character names, dialogue, and scene descriptions. Lastly, print your script on A4 paper.
Keep everything consistent throughout the script to make it look professional and increase its chances of being read from start to end.
- Find people who might be interested in your script.
Start your search on IMDB and similar sites to find producers, managers, and agents accepting scripts who may be a good fit for your work. Also, look online for pitch fests or similar events where you can present your work.
Don’t be afraid to use networking opportunities to find someone who might be interested in your work.
Avoid discounting small film studios or production companies in your area. They are likely open to pitches, and their location makes it easy for you to meet them repeatedly if they are interested in your script.
- Know your script by heart.
Once you get an invitation to pitch, make sure you know your script inside out. The producer or agent will likely ask specific questions about plot points, character motivations, or even minor details. If you fumble through the pages or struggle to recall a scene, you may appear unprepared or uncertain, which can hurt your chances of having your pitch accepted.
Knowing your script also allows you to think on your feet quickly when someone might challenge a plot choice or suggest a change. When you know your script well, you can respond thoughtfully and explain why you made certain decisions. You can also find a way to consider their input in a positive way.
To be prepared for the meeting, rehearse your pitch thoroughly and practice answering potential questions. Run through scenarios with friends or fellow writers to be ready for anything.
- Be confident during the presentation.
Confidence can make or break your pitch. If you appear hesitant or unsure, it can make the producer or agent question your belief in your own story.
As you make your pitch, maintain good posture, make eye contact, and speak clearly. Be confident and believe in everything you say, even if you feel nervous.
Practicing your pitch repeatedly before your meeting can help build your self-esteem and stay poised during the presentation.
Show that you’re passionate as well, but don’t appear desperate. This means toning down your enthusiasm a bit to avoid turning off your audience.
Focus on why your story matters while expressing your passion and being open to comments.
If you find yourself getting nowhere with your presentations, consider working with a production company offering pre-production and content creation services to help you polish your pitch.
These companies have professionals who can help you refine your pitch and offer feedback on your script. They can also suggest ways to highlight the most interesting elements of your story.
The production company’s team can also help you anticipate questions or concerns. They can train you to respond confidently and persuasively during your pitch.
Their assistance may be just what you need to catch a break and finally see your name credited as a scriptwriter.