A pitch template The Suits will love?
Are you ready to pitch your TV show but not sure where to start? Fear not, because, with the right preparation and understanding of the process, you'll be able to nail that pitch and entertain your executive audience!
First things first, keep your pitch tight and concise - aim for around 30-35 minutes. Start off with a strong "drop-in" or teaser that will hook your audience from the get-go. Remember, TV execs love character-driven stories, so make sure to focus on the key character journeys and emotional turns that will keep the viewers invested. They're also looking for a show that has sustainability, so make sure to pitch the show's long-term potential.
Now, let's talk about the pitch template. Your introduction should be brief but personal and passionate - this is your chance to grab the execs' attention and make them care about your story. The teaser should set the tone and give a taste of what's to come. The world and setup section should explain what the show is about, the world it lives in, and the tone. Don't forget to explain the show's format, genre, and tone, and provide references to successful films or series. And make sure to highlight the themes and heart of the show.
The characters section is where you bring your story to life. Focus on series regulars and key recurring characters - aim for 6-8 characters with actor prototypes and descriptions of their histories, wants, flaws, and journeys for the season. Explain the interpersonal dynamics between the characters.
The pilot beats should only cover the big moves, twists, or reveals - this section shouldn't be more than five minutes. The series and seasons section should provide an overview of the season, including character arcs and major story points. Explain the larger arcs and how the season jumps off from the pilot. Provide broad strokes of what the first season is about and where the major twists and turns are. And if pitching a serialized storyline, indicate themes of future seasons and the lead character's story arcs.
Finally, don't forget to provide sample episodes for procedural or close-ended shows. Keep it brief with three to four ideas that are no more than a few sentences each. The tone and wrap-up should be two to three sentences that provide cross-comparisons to popular movies or TV shows with a similar tone or visual style.
By following these tips, you'll be able to craft a pitch that resonates. Remember, this is your chance to share your passion, so don't be afraid to be enthusiastic and incorporate your personal experiences into the story.
