Before stepping into the realm of animation executive roles, I was just a passionate animation enthusiast brimming with ideas and dreams of creating my own television series one day. Like many who journeyed to the West Coast, I began piecing together concepts and envisioning my potential dominance in the animation industry. Recently, as I rummaged through old boxes, I stumbled upon my past pitches… and was utterly horrified. Not because the concepts were absurd, not because the artwork was subpar, and not because the projects seemed utterly implausible. No, what horrified me was my evident lack of understanding of how to craft a compelling pitch.
Having spent years on the receiving end of countless pitches, I’ve honed my skills in discerning the elements of a solid pitch from those that fall short. Now, let’s be clear: I’m not delving into what constitutes a brilliant idea. Discussions about character, story structure, and subjective notions of “good” could go on for ages (I recently engaged in a lengthy debate with a friend about why Goonies deserves its status as a modern classic—how is that even up for discussion?!). However, beyond matters of subjective taste, there are concrete steps you can take to refine your pitching abilities, ensuring that your pitch showcases the best aspects of your idea while positioning you as a savvy animation aficionado at the top of your game.
So, without further delay, here’s a compilation of key factors to consider when preparing to pitch an animated series:
Character, Character, Character!
The paramount focus of your pitch should revolve around your main character. Start by introducing them— delve into who they are, how they perceive the world, and what their desires and needs entail. While it may be tempting to dive headfirst into an elaborate universe, remember that without a compelling main character to anchor the narrative, the rest falls flat. Build your pitch around your protagonist, allowing the world to unfold organically from there.
Artwork
The perennial question of whether artwork is necessary often arises. The answer is simple: if the artwork is exceptional, go for it; if not, proceed with caution. While exceptional artwork can enhance your pitch, subpar visuals can detract from it. Consider whether your designs align with what you envision for the show and whether they boast a professional quality that could feasibly grace television screens. Additionally, be prepared to articulate your vision for the show’s artistic style—whether it’s traditional animation, CG, or Flash—and cite existing shows with a similar aesthetic as reference points.
Know What You Want
Be clear about your role in the show’s production. Whether you’re an artist, writer, producer, or idea generator, understand where your strengths lie and how you fit into the production hierarchy. Avoid vague statements about wanting to do “a little of everything” and instead articulate your specific contributions to the project.
Length of the Pitch/What to Cover
Craft your pitch to cover all essential elements without dragging on unnecessarily. Practice and refine your pitch, ensuring that it flows smoothly and covers all crucial aspects of your concept. Begin with the main character, then progress to other characters, the world, and any pilot or premise story. Conclude with episode ideas that showcase the potential breadth and depth of your series.
Be an Expert
Familiarize yourself with current trends and successful animated shows. Engage in informed discussions about the animation industry, demonstrating your knowledge and passion for the craft. Understanding the current landscape of animation can impress potential collaborators and showcase your readiness to make a significant impact in the industry.
Confidence Is Key
Approach your pitch with unwavering confidence in your idea. Believe in your concept wholeheartedly, and convey that conviction to your audience. Remember, executives want to be wowed by compelling pitches, and your confidence can be infectious. Embrace the fact that you’re the expert on your idea, and let that confidence shine through in your pitch.
In conclusion, mastering the art of pitching an animated TV series requires a combination of storytelling prowess, artistic vision, and unyielding confidence. By focusing on character development, articulating your vision, and exuding confidence in your concept, you can captivate executives and position yourself as a formidable force in the animation industry. So, channel your inner animation badass, hone your pitch to perfection, and prepare to dazzle audiences with your creative vision.