Pitched through a paid Stage32 pitch session over the weekend. I've read conflicting info on their relative value so wanted to share my personal take. For me, the experience was excellent and absolutely worth it.
The individual exec I spoke with was attentive and asked sensible probing questions directly related to my pitch. The feedback I later received was phenomenal, not generic: no pulled punches, but respectful and most of all actionable.
For most, pitching is terrifying regardless of our level of success. Maybe a few don't sweat it, but I bet not many. Working out my pitch and giving it live was terrifying but essential and rewarding. The exec requested my actual script, so that of course makes the experience even better.
Listen, I hope this ends in a deal or in my script at least getting circulated out there, but I'm no stranger to rejection and understand it's a tough business. Regardless, my point is I'm glad I took this path regardless of end results. I'm not a naive person, either. I've Seen too much.
Just wanted to share positive feedback on my experience with my Stage32 pitch because there can can a lot of negativity and frustration. I'm not saying everybody's pitch session is golden, only that mine was top notch. BTW, this is unprompted and from the heart.
Wish me luck, folks!
- Dale
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That is amazing Dale! great job overcoming your fear and sharing it with us!
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So awesome, gives me hope. I just paid for a pitch and I am eager to see how it goes.
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Thanks Ali and Alicia. I'm a decent public speaker and not struck by status, position or celebrity. I see people as people. That said, that pitch might have been one of the most fear inducing things I've done. I was relaxed and had fun while pitching but I was absurdly terrified before! Maybe I shouldn't admit that but wow! Complete jitters. Good luck on your pitch Alicia. Have fun, and remember to breathe!
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Thanks for the advice. I do feel as if I will be nervous as heck but maybe I can do index cards or something, lol...
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Haha. I actually DID have index cards with key points and one with my logline. I wasn't planning on using them, but they made me comfortable knowing I had them in case I blanked! I didn't actually need them but it was a little added security.
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I agree. I've done two and found the experience to be incredible and really helpful. Congrats on getting the script request.
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Thanks, Jon!
Best of luck! It’s very interesting. If you keep us posted about what happens after you send your script, I will be grateful to know. So I can think of some strategy for my script in the future.
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You got it, Pattana. It's nice to have a community like this to share this journey with!
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You've just answered every question I've had about the sessions!
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Awesome! My biggest advice if you're going for a pitch session is research to make sure your title fits with what they do and the type of material they're seeking.
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well done mate, glad you took the step
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Thanks for your post. I've been thinking about it and your post is very encouraging. Good luck to you!
Dale Luckwitz Thanks so much! Do keep us posted on your results and good luck!
Great to read the positive words. Best of luck Dale.
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This just made my ENTIRE day, Dale! Thanks so much for sharing this, and I am so incredibly glad that you had such a wonderful pitch experience.
By the way, if ever you have any questions about our pitch sessions (or any of our script services, for that matter) don't hesitate to reach out to me at writerhelp@stage32.com. I'm here to help however you need :)
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Thx, Angela!
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Dale Luckwitz @angela cristanello Hey! There she is! Thanks so much for all your help yesterday!!!! I am more than a bit nervous and excited about the pitch session. Dale and others are helping me feel like "I got this!"
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That's awesome Dale Luckwitz, way to go! I'm starting out with 5 written pitch sessions before I jump on something like a 30 minute call. I believe the investment is worth it too. Also, it's wonderful to know that Jason and Angela of Stage 32 script services always got your back. They are so helpful!
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You are so kind, Karis & truly, we're incredibly happy to be here for you all :)
And Alicia, fret not! You got this!
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Great feedback on the pitch sessions. I've done a few and I believe they are worth. I've gotten script requests and I've gotten rejected. Guess what? I'm still looking forward to doing another pitch session once my new material is ready. Stage 32 provides you with unprecedented access. It's up to you to use it and you have.
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Good luck. I'm super-happy with the written-pitch process...even the "pass" comes back with feedback. My second written pitch was much improved over my first because of the feedback on my first. Third and fourth are booked, and I'm getting teched up to begin some video conference pitches. All businesses require investment, and my writing business is no different.
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Well said, Mike Romoth.
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Love to hear it Dale Luckwitz! That is why the entire Stage 32 team and I are here! And thanks everyone else for the great comments. Believe me when I say that your wins are our wins and we want you help you overcome your challenges/set backs as much as you do! Keep up the great work everyone! We've got your back!
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Great news, Dale. I'm happy for you. It takes bravery and courage (liquid? lol) to pitch live. The butterflies in the stomach aren't just a saying. I'm glad the session went well, and that you received valuable notes and feedback to help you. Stage 32 is truly awesome in it's efforts to help screenwriters, along with other crafts in the industry. PLUS YOU GOT A REQUEST!!!!!! That's fantastic, brother! The help I received here on Stage 32 was instrumental in prepping and guiding me to having two of my scripts eventually optioned by the same producer, and your using this site as it was meant to be used, so I see a great future for you, my friend! Keep us posted on your journey.