A movie pitch is when a <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-becoming-a-screenwriter' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-becoming-a-screenwriter","linkCopy":"screenwriter","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>screenwriter</a> presents an idea for a feature film to people who can help finance or produce it, in hopes of securing money to write the first draft. The pitch process is meant to intrigue the people who can help make a movie—either studio executives, distributors, producers, or directors—to sign onto the project. A movie pitch can be a verbal or a visual presentation of a writer’s big idea, usually preceding the writing of a draft of the film. Film pitches are useful tools that briefly convey the important elements of a film project, like premise, characters, plot, and budget.
There are two main forms your pitch meeting may take, depending on the amount of time you have with your audience. 

- __The standard pitch__: The standard pitch is a rehearsed, scheduled pitch in which the screenwriter relays their movie idea to a group of investors or production executives. In some cases, the execs may ask the creator to make a [pitch deck](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/pitch-deck-guide) to accompany their verbal presentation to help expand upon the screenwriter’s vision for the fim. These pitches often last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes. 
- __The elevator pitch__: An elevator pitch is a much briefer form of the standard pitch. The idea is that you deliver the pitch quickly—in about the amount of time you would spend in an elevator ride. An effective [elevator pitch](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-craft-the-perfect-elevator-pitch) should express the essential premise of the idea that doesn’t last more than 20 to 30 seconds.
When you compile a movie pitch, you’ll want to include the most essential elements of your story or production in a clear and compelling way. For how to write a movie pitch, see the steps below. 

1. __Write an introduction__. Start your movie pitch with a brief overview of the film, which should include the title, [logline](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/screenwriting-tips-how-to-write-a-logline), [genre](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/9-popular-screenplay-genres-a-guide-to-different-movie-genres), and [theme](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/10-classic-movie-themes-with-examples) of the project. Address whether your story is entirely fiction, or based on a true story. In some cases, you may want to include why this particular screenplay is important, and what it means to you. 
2. __Include a synopsis__. Whether you’re presenting with a deck or verbally, include a section that [summarizes](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-movie-synopsis-to-sell-your-screenplay) the premise of your film. Discuss the basic plot of the story without giving away the whole story. 
3. __Discuss the characters__. Include a section in your pitch that breaks down your main [characters](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/writing-tips-for-character-development). Describe the protagonist, any antagonists, or important [secondary characters](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-supporting-characters) that are essential to the plot. Briefly discuss their motivations, arcs, or significant traits that make these characters compelling. 
4. __Address the filmmaking elements__. Your movie pitch may include specific types of [cinematography](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/film-101-what-is-cinematography-and-what-does-a-cinematographer-do), styles, [lighting](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/film-101-understanding-film-lighting), or music that inspire you or add to the mood of your film. Include any unique elements of the filmmaking that may bolster your chances of a successful pitch. Mention the budget, existing financing, or if any directors or actors are currently attached. 
5. __Write a compelling conclusion__. Conclude your pitch by discussing how the story ends. You can also end on a [cliffhanger](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-cliffhanger-14-tips-for-writing-page-turning-cliffhangers-with-dan-brown-and-rl-stine), but make sure it leaves the listeners wanting more, rather than confusing them or leaving them unsatisfied. You can also discuss the significance of making your film at this very moment, and any other interesting personal elements that could help sell your idea. You want to convince your audience that you are the only one who can make this movie.
There are a few steps that every filmmaker should take to ensure they’ve delivered the most compelling pitch possible: 

1. __Pitch the right people__. Make sure the investors or producers are the right fit for your screenplay. For instance, if your script is a comedy, don’t try to set up a meeting with a production company that only makes horror films—unless your story happens to be a horror film with comedic elements. 
2. __Find pitching opportunities__. Attend pitch fests or use networking opportunities to try and get people interested in your ideas. Contact production companies to see if they accept unsolicited pitches from new writers. Be assertive but polite when contacting those you want to pitch to. 
3. __Know the elements of your film, inside and out__. Make sure you rehearse your pitch before you get in the pitch room, and are familiar with all the elements of your story. Start at the beginning and progress through the story, limiting your pitch to the most essential elements of your film. Avoid going over the allotted amount of time that you’re given. 
4. __Prepare to answer questions__. The story you’ve been rehearsing may make perfect sense in your own mind, but remember it’s an entirely new story to someone else. Be prepared for questions from your listeners, and make sure you can answer them when the time comes. 
5. __Be passionate and confident__. You want to convince your audience that your idea is worth their investment of time or money. Even a great idea may not sound appealing if you sound hesitant or nervous. Being confident during your pitch will likely inspire your audience to get just as excited as you are about your film idea. 
6. __Follow up__. It can take a few weeks, or sometimes longer, for some execs to respond to your pitch. Once about a month has passed, craft a polite [follow-up email](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-follow-up-after-an-interview) checking in with those you’ve pitched to.
7. __Shop your script around__. If you get a “no” after your first pitch, don’t take it too personally. There are many conditions that go into buying a film script, and sometimes certain ideas don’t fit within a studio’s confines. If one studio doesn’t work out, you can always shop the idea around to other studios. You should believe in your script, so don’t give up on it.
Become a better filmmaker with the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com). Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Martin Scorsese, Spike Lee, David Lynch, Shonda Rhimes, Jodie Foster, and more.
If you’re a filmmaker or writer who thinks you’ve got the next great idea for a Hollywood hit, you’ll want to know a few things about pitching a movie.

If you’re a filmmaker or writer who thinks you’ve got the next great idea for a Hollywood hit, you’ll want to know a few things about pitching a movie.

How to Pitch a Movie in 7 Steps

A movie pitch is when a <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-becoming-a-screenwriter' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-becoming-a-screenwriter","linkCopy":"screenwriter","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>screenwriter</a> presents an idea for a feature film to people who can help finance or produce it, in hopes of securing money to write the first draft. The pitch process is meant to intrigue the people who can help make a movie—either studio executives, distributors, producers, or directors—to sign onto the project. A movie pitch can be a verbal or a visual presentation of a writer’s big idea, usually preceding the writing of a draft of the film. Film pitches are useful tools that briefly convey the important elements of a film project, like premise, characters, plot, and budget.

What Is a Movie Pitch?

There are two main forms your pitch meeting may take, depending on the amount of time you have with your audience. <ul class="mc-m-4 list-styled"><li class="">The standard pitch: The standard pitch is a rehearsed, scheduled pitch in which the screenwriter relays their movie idea to a group of investors or production executives. In some cases, the execs may ask the creator to make a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/pitch-deck-guide' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/pitch-deck-guide","linkCopy":"pitch deck","category":null}'>pitch deck</a> to accompany their verbal presentation to help expand upon the screenwriter’s vision for the fim. These pitches often last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes. </li><li class="">The elevator pitch: An elevator pitch is a much briefer form of the standard pitch. The idea is that you deliver the pitch quickly—in about the amount of time you would spend in an elevator ride. An effective <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-craft-the-perfect-elevator-pitch' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-craft-the-perfect-elevator-pitch","linkCopy":"elevator pitch","category":null}'>elevator pitch</a> should express the essential premise of the idea that doesn’t last more than 20 to 30 seconds. </li></ul>

Types of Pitches: Standard Pitch vs. Elevator Pitch

When you compile a movie pitch, you’ll want to include the most essential elements of your story or production in a clear and compelling way. For how to write a movie pitch, see the steps below. <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Write an introduction. Start your movie pitch with a brief overview of the film, which should include the title, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/screenwriting-tips-how-to-write-a-logline' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/screenwriting-tips-how-to-write-a-logline","linkCopy":"logline","category":null}'>logline</a>, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/9-popular-screenplay-genres-a-guide-to-different-movie-genres' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/9-popular-screenplay-genres-a-guide-to-different-movie-genres","linkCopy":"genre","category":null}'>genre</a>, and <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/10-classic-movie-themes-with-examples' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/10-classic-movie-themes-with-examples","linkCopy":"theme","category":null}'>theme</a> of the project. Address whether your story is entirely fiction, or based on a true story. In some cases, you may want to include why this particular screenplay is important, and what it means to you. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Include a synopsis. Whether you’re presenting with a deck or verbally, include a section that <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-movie-synopsis-to-sell-your-screenplay' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-movie-synopsis-to-sell-your-screenplay","linkCopy":"summarizes","category":null}'>summarizes</a> the premise of your film. Discuss the basic plot of the story without giving away the whole story. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Discuss the characters. Include a section in your pitch that breaks down your main <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/writing-tips-for-character-development' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/writing-tips-for-character-development","linkCopy":"characters","category":null}'>characters</a>. Describe the protagonist, any antagonists, or important <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-supporting-characters' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-supporting-characters","linkCopy":"secondary characters","category":null}'>secondary characters</a> that are essential to the plot. Briefly discuss their motivations, arcs, or significant traits that make these characters compelling. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Address the filmmaking elements. Your movie pitch may include specific types of <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/film-101-what-is-cinematography-and-what-does-a-cinematographer-do' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/film-101-what-is-cinematography-and-what-does-a-cinematographer-do","linkCopy":"cinematography","category":null}'>cinematography</a>, styles, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/film-101-understanding-film-lighting' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/film-101-understanding-film-lighting","linkCopy":"lighting","category":null}'>lighting</a>, or music that inspire you or add to the mood of your film. Include any unique elements of the filmmaking that may bolster your chances of a successful pitch. Mention the budget, existing financing, or if any directors or actors are currently attached. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Write a compelling conclusion. Conclude your pitch by discussing how the story ends. You can also end on a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-cliffhanger-14-tips-for-writing-page-turning-cliffhangers-with-dan-brown-and-rl-stine' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-cliffhanger-14-tips-for-writing-page-turning-cliffhangers-with-dan-brown-and-rl-stine","linkCopy":"cliffhanger","category":null}'>cliffhanger</a>, but make sure it leaves the listeners wanting more, rather than confusing them or leaving them unsatisfied. You can also discuss the significance of making your film at this very moment, and any other interesting personal elements that could help sell your idea. You want to convince your audience that you are the only one who can make this movie. </li></ol>

How to Write a Movie Pitch

There are a few steps that every filmmaker should take to ensure they’ve delivered the most compelling pitch possible: <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Pitch the right people. Make sure the investors or producers are the right fit for your screenplay. For instance, if your script is a comedy, don’t try to set up a meeting with a production company that only makes horror films—unless your story happens to be a horror film with comedic elements. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Find pitching opportunities. Attend pitch fests or use networking opportunities to try and get people interested in your ideas. Contact production companies to see if they accept unsolicited pitches from new writers. Be assertive but polite when contacting those you want to pitch to. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Know the elements of your film, inside and out. Make sure you rehearse your pitch before you get in the pitch room, and are familiar with all the elements of your story. Start at the beginning and progress through the story, limiting your pitch to the most essential elements of your film. Avoid going over the allotted amount of time that you’re given. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Prepare to answer questions. The story you’ve been rehearsing may make perfect sense in your own mind, but remember it’s an entirely new story to someone else. Be prepared for questions from your listeners, and make sure you can answer them when the time comes. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Be passionate and confident. You want to convince your audience that your idea is worth their investment of time or money. Even a great idea may not sound appealing if you sound hesitant or nervous. Being confident during your pitch will likely inspire your audience to get just as excited as you are about your film idea. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 6. Follow up. It can take a few weeks, or sometimes longer, for some execs to respond to your pitch. Once about a month has passed, craft a polite <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-follow-up-after-an-interview' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-follow-up-after-an-interview","linkCopy":"follow-up email","category":null}'>follow-up email</a> checking in with those you’ve pitched to. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 7. Shop your script around. If you get a “no” after your first pitch, don’t take it too personally. There are many conditions that go into buying a film script, and sometimes certain ideas don’t fit within a studio’s confines. If one studio doesn’t work out, you can always shop the idea around to other studios. You should believe in your script, so don’t give up on it. </li></ol>

How to Pitch a Movie

Become a better filmmaker with the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a>. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Martin Scorsese, Spike Lee, David Lynch, Shonda Rhimes, Jodie Foster, and more.

Want to Learn More About Film?

If you’re a filmmaker or writer who thinks you’ve got the next great idea for a Hollywood hit, you’ll want to know a few things about pitching a movie.

If you’re a filmmaker or writer who thinks you’ve got the next great idea for a Hollywood hit, you’ll want to know a few things about pitching a movie.
