📆 Your joke writing challenge topic for today is Weird Weather.
From Stand-up Stage to TV Screen: Mastering the Art of Pitching Your Show
Hey comedy enthusiasts and budding screenwriters! 🎬
Ever wondered about the magic that goes behind pitching a TV show? Jim Agnew, a seasoned screenwriter, spilled the beans in a recent interview with Film Courage, and we’ve got the scoop for you! Especially for those of you transitioning from our stand-up comedy class to TV writing, this is gold.
😏 TAKE THE QUIZ BELOW
- Difference Between Film and TV: TV projects differ significantly from film.
- Writing a Pilot: If you’re new to TV writing and don’t have a track record, you’ll likely need to write a pilot. However, experienced writers might just need to write a pitch.
- The Pitch: A TV pitch is typically about 10 minutes long. It covers the essence of the show, including its characters, the beats in the pilot episode, and an overview of the subsequent seasons. Don’t overwhelm with too much detail; keep it concise and compelling.
- Skip the Show Bible: A detailed “bible” for the show isn’t necessary at the pitching stage. It’s more relevant once a show is ordered.
- Character Emphasis: Networks care deeply about characters, as viewers will be investing in them over multiple seasons. Ensure your characters are dynamic and compelling.
- Pitching Timeframe: While traditionally TV pitches had a season, with the rise of streaming platforms, pitches are now accepted more freely throughout the year.
- The Pitching Process: It’s a whirlwind! You might pitch to numerous networks in a short span, so be prepared for a hectic schedule.
- Materials for the Pitch: While some pitches benefit from visual aids, especially if world-building is essential, many TV executives prefer a straightforward verbal pitch.
- Getting in the Room: Having an agent or a connection can be essential to getting that pitch meeting.
- TV’s Competitive Landscape: TV has become fiercely competitive in recent years. Many pitches now come with complete packages, including potential showrunners and even actors. This emphasis on packaging makes breaking in with a new show even more challenging.
- Starting Out Advice: For newcomers, it might be beneficial to start as a staff writer, gain experience, make connections, and then venture into pitching their show.
Navigating the world of TV pitching can be daunting, but with the right insights and strategies, you can make a mark. For our comedy class graduates looking to make a splash in TV, these tips are invaluable. Remember, every show on TV started with a pitch – yours could be next!
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Take The Quiz
After watching the video, take this quiz to check your knowledge.
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First up, what should we call you?
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Which of the following best describes the importance of characters in TV pitches according to Jim Agnew?
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Characters should be static and predictable.
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Add RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned Tags- Characters should be introduced only in the pilot episode.
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Add RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned TagsCharacters are central, as networks and audiences invest in them over multiple seasons.
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Add RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned TagsCharacters are secondary to the show's plot.
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For those new to TV writing without a track record, what is primarily required for a pitch?
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A detailed show bible.
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Add RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned TagsOnly a verbal pitch.
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Add RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned TagsA pilot and a pitch.
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Add RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned TagsA letter of recommendation from a known producer.
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When is the traditional season for TV pitches?
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January to March.
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Add RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned TagsThere's no specific season with the rise of streaming platforms.
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Add RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned TagsOctober to December.
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Add RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned TagsJuly to September.
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%%FIRST_NAME%% Way to go 🎉! Keep going! 💪🏆
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LEADERBOARD
Did you earn yourself a spot on the leaderboard?
Look at the chart below to find out!
Rank | Name | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carla Ulbrich | 30/30 |
| 2 | Stacey | 30/30 |
| 3 | Claudia | 30/30 |
| 4 | Tom Padovano | 30/30 |
| 5 | Robert | 30/30 |
| 6 | Laurie P Milbourn | 20/30 |
| 7 | Suzanne Linfante | 20/30 |
| 8 | Jane Joan Costagliola | 20/30 |
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