Screenwriting : Pitching - Skype pitch meeting vs. written pitch pages by Regina Lee

Good point, Regina. I just signed up for a written pitch, but it seems that folks have been talking mostly about the visual. Still looking for more folks who have done the written, because I'd love to see samples and/or feedback.

Regina this is so helpful. All your points about how executives see a pitch really puts it into perspective. I always wonder what is going on from their side of the page/screen and now I feel like I have an insider on my side! :) I am choosing to do a written pitch for my animated screenplay, but I have been told I have a sparkling personality :-D . so I am wondering if my written pitch does well, would I get the chance to then have a visual pitch in the future? I am so passionate about my work I know it would come through in person, however the writing is the pitch so I figure it should be the most prominent voice. Thank you so much for being in the community and for connecting with a little unknown beginner like me.

Still hoping for a good example or two of a written pitch. I've been searching this lounge using "written pitch" as a keyword and then just "pitching." I did find one person's one-sheet (complete with dramatic graphics at the top), but I'm unclear if it's really a good idea to provide graphics or if this is not the place for that. Could anyone provide another example or two of what is regarded as a good written pitch? Thanks for any assistance.

Hi Lise! Where did you find your written pitch example with the graphics? May I check it out?

Joey, I sure will. Thanks.

Dawn, I've lost track of exactly which thread this was on or what date it may have been posted, but I bookmarked the item itself and here it is: http://theroadtoremembering.com/

Joey, thanks also on the guidance of "no graphics." I was on the fence. My script is a "featured script" this week on the Black List script-hosting website, and they designed a poster for it. The feature honor feels important to me, but I seek to include it in my pitch in the most professional way, rather than as a distraction. Maybe a link, or small icon at the bottom or something. I'll take a look at the templates and see if that sparks some thoughts.

Great reasons and I totally agree with both

I like the ability to "come through" in a Skype meeting. I'm of the belief, perhaps foolishly, that all we're ever really pitching is ourselves and what better way to show up? Although, I have to say, there is a fleeting aspect to that interaction, where if you miss or half-miss, you're without a real leave behind.

I enjoyed reading your comments for this thread. As my first studio boss says, "Play to your strengths, and mitigate your weaknesses." Go get 'em!!

I hate to hijack this topic somewhat, but since this is about both types of pitches, I'll add this.

The Stage32 written guidelines state what to put in two pages, but I have to say what's left after all that is maybe a page, even less? I had taken "The Road To Remember" sample into a 1" on all sides margin, 12 point Courier New document, and the pitch was just over two pages. The actual story content was 1-1/2 pages. With Arial, it was just under two pages. Kudos to Frank Rogala and/or whoever wrote the pitch. However, it didn't include some of other parts Stage 32 suggests: Comparisons, inspiration for story, setting, character intros reverencing popular actors. All that may take away space for the storyline.

My issue with maximum length of content is this: IF the theme and subject are somewhat familiar a point of reference for the reader exists. However, if the story is a fantasy-based or has unusual premise or environment, there is not enough room to explain what isn't familiar to the reader. Having said that, I understand that explaining the unusual parts and how they may relate to ANY reader is the magic.

What I'm saying here is that one page doesn't fit all scripts. The time the writer would take on exposition in the actual script can sometimes be so shortened in a pitch as to sound ridiculous. I get that selecting just the right details is the trick, and appreciate there must be some reasonable limit. Somewhere between an intriguing logline and a synopsis there exists the perfect pitch length for each story.

Having said all this, I believe a written pitch has the edge exactly for the reasons Regina cited. It gives a writer a "second chance" in other ways. I don't think the average writer has such an engaging "stage" personality that it makes a positive difference for most. In fact, I would be worried about the opposite. I know it's been stated over the years that pitching is almost a "rite of passage" for a writer; the "writer" as a "performer". That's fine if you have that sort of talent, and yes it MAY be an indicator of a good working relationship with the producer, or it may not. In a verbal pitch everyone is stressed. It's both difficult to ask reflective questions and even harder to field them thoughtfully. Both sides are compromised.

If there are questions, the executive could easily ask other readers to follow up with questions.. I think it's more comfortable for everyone if the writer is approached AFTER the written pitch has been read. The reader has time to digest and re-read parts if necessary, and can be prepared to ask the writer more insightful questions.

I have submitted written pitches a number of times, in order to fine tune it. Some of the feedback has been immensely helpful, other feedback less so, as is to be expected.

One thing is certain, personal taste, reading comprehension, and background knowledge are all variables in this. Just got feedback today from two different producers, and was amused that one of them rated the pitch 2 for clarity, while the other gave it a 5 for clarity.

Lise Pyles As for graphics, I started out with a picture banner at top, but was advised to simplify, which I did. Mention the accolade in your intro or in your bio.

This is such a very interesting, pertinent, exciting, and important thread. It says it was originally posted 6 years ago. I'm glad it's resurfacing.

Great topic to discuss Regina. Both methods of pitching have their strengths, but for the pitch-er, it depends on which way you feel will best get your project across to the pitch-ee and show off its strengths best.