Screenwriting is a craft where countless hours are spent alone with only the characters in one’s head. The writer knows the message they are trying to convey, the way they want the project received, and all of the plot points. When the time comes to presenting the idea to movie producers, these writers need to draw on an entirely different set of skills. Screenwriters need to communicate the exciting elements of that internal world that they spent so much time creating to outsiders in a way that helps the producers visualize the project. Movie producers are visual. Here is how writers pitch to movie producers.
The Pitch
If a screenwriter has been invited to present to movie producers, they have most likely passed through a series of steps. They’ve already pitched their idea, logline, and genre to an agent or other gatekeeper. The gatekeeper got the producer’s attention. This meeting is where a group of producers and investors meet the writer. The writer will discuss all the characters and plot elements in a compelling way to keep interest strong and get investors to agree to the project. Writers are writers and not salespeople, but in this instance, it can help if they have some sales knowledge, at least sales closing techniques. These techniques can help to move the producers to an agreeable position.
The Details
Many screenwriters will have a formal video presentation prepared and an outline of the entire project. Most follow an outline to ensure essential elements are covered, though interruptions will be frequent. Investors want to know if the writer is skilled enough and if they can answer all their questions. The best screenwriters handle interruptions and then return to the outline to ensure the material is covered.
The Movie
Screenwriters typically start with an introduction to the project. They will present the logline, genre, and theme. Fear of criticism and rejection can be overwhelming, but they must show confidence and knowledge to sell the project.
The Summary
After the introduction, writers provide a brief synopsis. There are many ways to do this. Some writers follow the three-act structure and others a simple beginning, middle, and end. They must hit all the plot points. Many writers won’t give away the ending at this point.
The Characters
The writers then present the goals, motivations, and conflicts of the main characters. Presentations must show the writers know their characters exceptionally well. They include anything that makes the characters unique and qualified to be a part of the movie quest. The meetings are tough. Writers must show characters are properly motivated and have growth, but they don’t want to bog down the producers with insignificant details.
The Budget
Budgets are something that artists typically avoid, but this is part of a pitch with producers. The producers are working with a budget, and they need an idea of what the movie will cost to produce. If the location is set in a tiny town on Aruba or in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, that makes a difference in costs. Producers will be more equipped to estimate costs than the writer, but writers need to give them the details of location, equipment, actors, and props. Producers typically ask many questions about these things, and writers must be prepared to answer not so much the cost, but the details.
The Close
The writer should control the pitch portion of the meeting. The writer will follow their outline and will close the meeting with something visual that producers can remember. The best closings are packed with a powerful end to the story. Maybe the writer has held off on releasing the resolution until this point, or they may end with a thought-provoking question. Writers will draw on their writing skills and provide descriptions using some of the five senses in delivering closings.
Pitching in front of movie producers is a group meeting, and the successful writer must satisfy all group members. The producers already like the idea, but the writer must convince them to invest in the project, which often boils down to convincing them that the writer has the skill.
Did you know?
Raindance holds Live!Ammunition, the pitch competition on
Monday 12th September 2022
GLB Brewpub 11 Lower Jarvis St Units 5-8, Toronto, ON M5E 0C3
Last Few Tickets Party + Live!Ammunition ticket Here
Finnegan Pierson loves business and has a passion for technology and films. As a freelance writer, Finn hopes to influence others so they can have a positive business experience.
