Long before my days as an animation executive, I was just another animation enthusiast brimming with ideas and aspirations. Like many who venture to the West Coast, I envisioned myself making waves in the animation industry, armed with a trove of concepts waiting to be brought to life. Recently, as I revisited some of my old pitches tucked away in boxes, I was struck not by the silliness of the concepts or the quality of the artwork, but by my apparent lack of understanding of what it takes to craft a solid pitch.
Having spent years on the receiving end of pitches and witnessing the good, the bad, and the ugly, I’ve gleaned valuable insights into what distinguishes a stellar pitch from a lackluster one. Allow me to share some concrete tips to help you hone your pitching skills and present your animated TV series like a true professional.
- CHARACTER! CHARACTER! CHARACTER! The cornerstone of any successful pitch lies in the strength of its characters. Too often, creators dive headfirst into elaborate world-building without first establishing a compelling protagonist to anchor the narrative. Start your pitch by introducing your main character, delving into their personality, motivations, and worldview. Let the audience connect with your character before delving into the intricacies of the world you’ve created.
- ARTWORK While artwork can enhance your pitch, quality trumps quantity. If you have access to world-class artwork that accurately reflects your vision for the show, by all means, showcase it. However, amateurish or off-brand artwork can detract from your pitch. Instead, focus on articulating your vision for the show’s art style and aesthetic. Describe the look and feel of the animation, citing examples of existing shows that align with your vision.
- KNOW WHAT YOU WANT Be clear about your role in the production process and how you envision yourself contributing to the project. Whether you’re a writer, artist, or producer, articulate your strengths and how they align with the needs of the production. Avoid the temptation to be a jack-of-all-trades; instead, emphasize your expertise and the value you bring to the table.
- LENGTH OF THE PITCH/WHAT TO COVER Craft your pitch to cover all the essential elements of your concept while keeping it concise and engaging. Practice delivering your pitch to friends or colleagues, soliciting feedback to refine your presentation. Ensure you cover key aspects such as character introduction, world-building, and episode ideas, leaving no room for stumbling or omissions.
- EPISODE IDEAS Provide a glimpse into the potential of your series by presenting well-developed episode ideas that showcase your characters and themes. Aim for a balance of fleshed-out stories and tantalizing concepts that demonstrate the versatility and longevity of your show.
- BE AN EXPERT Demonstrate your knowledge of the animation landscape by familiarizing yourself with current trends and successful shows. Engage in informed discussions about the industry, showcasing your passion and insight into what works and what doesn’t in animated storytelling.
- CONFIDENCE IS KEY Above all, exude confidence in your idea and your ability to bring it to life. Believe in your concept wholeheartedly, and others will follow suit. Remember, every executive wants to be wowed by a pitch, and none possess a monopoly on storytelling expertise. Embrace your passion and conviction, and let them shine through in your presentation.
In conclusion, mastering the art of pitching requires a combination of preparation, passion, and self-assurance. Armed with these principles, you’ll be well-equipped to captivate audiences and secure the support needed to turn your animated TV series into a reality.