FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONs
What is a pitch deck?
A pitch deck is a visual presentation used to pitch a new TV show idea to networks or streaming platforms. It highlights the concept, characters, plot, and unique selling points.
What are the essential elements of a TV show pitch deck?
Title and Logline
Synopsis
Genre and Tone
Target Audience
Character Descriptions
Episode Guide or Season Outline
Visual Style and Inspiration
Creator's Bio
Market Analysis and Comparisons
How long should a pitch deck be?
A pitch deck should be concise, typically between 10 to 15 slides, focusing on the most compelling aspects of your show.
How much text is too much text?
Getting your point across is key, doing it with the least amount of words possible is an art. 200-250 words per page is a good word count leaving ample space for imagery and design. You always want to maintain a good balance between text and images.
How should i submit my text to begin?
We recommend submitting a numbered word document attached to an email. This allows you to make changes and sequentially label each file “v1, v2, v3”
How important is the visual style of a pitch deck?
Very important. A visually engaging pitch deck can capture attention and convey the tone and style of your show. Use high-quality images, consistent color schemes, and professional design.
What is a logline?
A logline is a one-sentence summary of your show that encapsulates the main premise and hook.
How detailed should the character descriptions be?
Provide enough detail to give a clear sense of the main characters' personalities, backgrounds, and their roles in the story. Include visuals or concept art if possible.
What should the synopsis include?
A brief summary of the show's premise, main plot points, and overarching story arc. Keep it engaging and to the point.
What is an episode guide or season outline?
A brief description of the episodes in the first season, highlighting key plot points and character development arcs. This shows you have a plan for the series beyond the pilot.
How do I convey the genre and tone?
Use descriptive language and visual elements that match the feel of your show. Comparisons to existing shows can help illustrate the intended tone and genre.
Should I include a market analysis?
Yes, demonstrating an understanding of the market can show the viability of your show. Include comparisons to successful shows in a similar genre or target audience.
What is a creator's bio?
A brief overview of your background, relevant experience, and past successes. This helps establish your credibility and vision.
How can I make my pitch deck stand out?
Highlight what makes your show unique, use strong visuals, keep the content focused and engaging, and tailor the pitch to the specific network or streaming platform.
Should I include potential casting ideas?
It's optional, but suggesting potential cast members can help visualize the characters and appeal to the network's interests.
How do I address potential budget concerns?
Be prepared to discuss the estimated budget and justify costs based on the show's scope and production requirements. However, this can often be discussed in later stages rather than in the initial pitch deck.
Can I include video elements in my pitch deck?
Yes, if you have a sizzle reel, concept trailer, or any other video content, it can greatly enhance your pitch. Ensure it's professionally produced and aligns with the show's vision.
What should I know about the target audience?
Clearly define your target audience and explain why your show will appeal to them. Use demographic and psychographic data to support your case.
How do I tailor my pitch for different networks or streamers?
Research each network or streamer's brand, audience, and content preferences. Customize your pitch deck to align with their specific interests and portfolio.
What are some common mistakes to avoid in a pitch deck?
Avoid overly long descriptions, cluttered slides, lack of visual consistency, ignoring the target audience, and not clearly articulating the show's unique aspects.
How do I start creating a pitch deck?
Begin with a clear outline of your show’s key elements, gather visual materials, and use professional design tools or services to create a polished, cohesive presentation.
How can I get feedback on my pitch deck?
Share your pitch deck with trusted industry colleagues, mentors, or a professional pitch consultant to get constructive feedback and make improvements before pitching to networks or streamers.