How to Pitch a Movie Script to Cable Networks
If you are creative and a very good writer you may have movie script ideas. To pitch a movie script to a cable network, there is certain legal protocol that must be considered for your approach. Cable networks are very protected legally and don't just review unsolicited ideas for movies from writers. Ideas get stolen all the time.
- Determine what type of style and genre your movie matches. Research the network’s target audience, along with staff listings, history of shows and upcoming roster. Cable networks generally have priorities for programming base upon the preferences of the advertisers.
- Copyright your script to protect your idea. Register your script with the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and apply for a copyright. To register with the WGA it is not that expensive and it provides instant protection to your documents. Look into getting an attorney, if possible, to obtain a copyright for your intellectual property.
- Get feedback on your screenplay by contacting a local producer. A producer cannot only estimate a budget for your movie, but can also be helpful if the network is interested in pursuing your project. When making comparisons to other networks' existing lineups, understanding your movie's budget parameters is helpful.
- Submit a query letter for your screenplay before you pursue a network. Make sure it is an accredited agency you submit the query letter to because an agent is the best way to get consideration from a network. You gain opportunity to pitch your script to multiple networks and producer if an agent is interested in representing you. Note that it does take time, talent and patience to get with an agency. Contact networks directly if you don’t receive any request to read your screenplay.
- Obtain a release form by contacting the development assistant from the network. Make sure to do this before you send a query to a network executive. You can possibly be offered information on the correct protocol by the development assistant. Review and sign the release form and fax it or mail it back to the network per the instructions on the form. Once your release form has be received and signed, you can then begin to pitch your script by pursuing a meeting with a development executive.