1. U24 Writing for TV & Video 
PITCHING a Script Idea 

2. Identify how to conduct an engaging pitch
Develop how to improve on your own pitching style
Aims of Session: 

3. What makes a good pitch?
Keep the story tight, short, and simple. “ Great leaders are simplifiers ,” writes Branson. “They can communicate to their entire audience in terms that are universally understood.” Branson says when he hears a long-winded speaker, “It’s all I can do to prevent myself from grabbing them by the collar and yelling, ‘Life’s too short! Get to the point.’”

4. PASSION!! Be passionate about the product you are selling.
Remain positive and believe.
In the spirit of a communicator who Branson greatly admires—Steve Jobs— there is ‘one more thing’ to consider. Have fun! “Fun is one of the most important—and underrated— ingredients in any successful venture,” Branson
PASSION!!

5. What makes a good pitch? Case Study

6. Tips for Pitching a Screenplay Idea
Never tell the whole story
Focus on revealing the essential elements of your story
Begin by revealing how you came up with the idea
Leave the buyer in suspense
Finish your description with the title and logline
Answer the buyer’s questions succinctly 
Tips for Pitching a Screenplay Idea 

7. The Essential Elements to Include:
Who is your HERO or protagonist?
What is that character’s EVERYDAY LIFE at the beginning of the film?
Why will we feel EMPATHY towards your hero?
What OPPORTUNITY is presented to that hero at the 10% point that will get the story going?
Into what NEW SITUATION does that opportunity take your hero?
What specific visible goal or OUTER MOTIVATION are we rooting for your hero to accomplish by the end of the movie?
What CONFLICT will the hero face that makes achieving that goal seem impossible?
What are two COMPARISONS to your screenplay – recent, successful films with the same genre, tone, and potential market as yours?

8. PITCH Tutorial

9. What do I need to bring to the pitch?
Hard copies of (preferably in a folder with your name on it):
Research – audience & market 
Proposal document
You may want to screen a short extract from a movie that has inspired your idea 
You don't have to but you may wish to produce a PowerPoint to support you during the pitch 
Any other stuff that you want us to consider (mood board, storyboard etc.) – however these are not essential
What do I need to bring to the pitch?