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How to Pitch a Show to Netflix: A Veteran’s Guide

So, you’ve got a killer show idea that’s destined to be the next Stranger Things or Queen’s Gambit? Excellent! But getting that brilliance in front of Netflix is a whole different beast than dreaming it up. Let’s cut through the Hollywood mystique and get down to brass tacks.

How to Pitch a Show to Netflix? The Straight Dope

The direct, brutally honest answer is: you can’t, not directly. Netflix, unlike the early days of television, rarely accepts unsolicited pitches. You can’t just cold-call them with your story and expect a warm reception. The gates are guarded by agents, managers, producers, and a whole ecosystem designed to filter and refine potential projects.

Your path to Netflix requires navigating this intermediary system. Think of it like this: you need a skilled sherpa to guide you up the Mount Everest of entertainment. This sherpa comes in the form of a reputable agent, manager, or established production company.

Here’s the breakdown of the process:

Develop a Compelling Project: This is the foundation. Your show idea needs to be rock solid. We’re talking a well-developed concept, a compelling logline, a detailed treatment (outline), maybe even a pilot script. The more polished your materials, the better. This isn’t just a brainstorm; it’s a business proposal.
Find Representation: This is the crucial step. Research agents and managers who specialize in television, particularly those with a track record of working with streaming platforms. Look for agencies like CAA, WME, UTA, or smaller, boutique agencies that have a strong client list in your genre.
The Query Letter/Cold Outreach (Proceed with Caution): A carefully crafted query letter can sometimes pique the interest of a smaller manager or junior agent. This is a long shot, but if your materials are exceptional and your query is targeted, it’s worth a try. However, be prepared for rejection – it’s part of the game.
Networking (The Gold Standard): Attend industry events, workshops, and film festivals. Build relationships with people in the business. Networking is about building genuine connections, not just handing out your business card.
Nail the Pitch Deck: If you get the green light to pitch, prepare a killer pitch deck. This is a visual presentation that outlines your show’s concept, characters, story arcs, target audience, and potential marketing strategies. Think of it as a visual and verbal summary that makes your show irresistible.
Let Your Representation Do the Talking: Once you have representation, let them leverage their relationships to get your project in front of Netflix development executives. They’ll know the right people, the right timing, and the best way to present your show.
Be Patient and Persistent: The entertainment industry is notorious for its slow pace. Don’t get discouraged by rejections or delays. Keep developing your skills, refining your projects, and building your network.

Now, let’s dive into some common questions that arise during this process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pitching to Netflix

What exactly does Netflix look for in a show?

Netflix seeks originality, broad appeal (often with a niche focus), binge-worthiness, diverse voices, and high production values. They are constantly looking for content that can attract and retain subscribers in a competitive market. They also prioritize shows that can generate global buzz and social media engagement. Consider what is trending, what gap in the market does your show fill, and how is your show unlike anything else.

Do I need a completed pilot script before pitching?

Not always, but it helps significantly. A strong treatment (detailed outline) and a compelling pitch deck can be enough to get the ball rolling, especially if you have a unique concept or a proven track record. However, a completed pilot script demonstrates your writing ability and provides a concrete example of your vision.

What is a “treatment,” and how detailed should it be?

A treatment is a detailed synopsis of your entire series or limited series. It should include:

Logline: A concise summary of your show.
Synopsis: A breakdown of the overall plot.
Character Descriptions: Detailed profiles of your main characters.
Episode Outlines: A brief overview of each episode in the first season.
Themes and Tone: The overarching message and style of your show.

The treatment should be detailed enough to give the reader a clear understanding of your vision, typically 10-20 pages for a half-hour comedy and 20-40 pages for a one-hour drama.

What makes a good pitch deck?

A compelling pitch deck should be visually appealing, concise, and informative. It should include:

Title and Logline: Front and center.
Synopsis: A brief overview of the story.
Character Introductions: Visuals and descriptions.
Target Audience: Who are you trying to reach?
Comparables: Similar shows that have been successful (but explain how yours is unique).
Visual Style: Mood boards, concept art, or even existing footage.
Team: Introduce yourself and any key team members.

Remember, the pitch deck is a sales tool. It should captivate the reader and make them want to see more.

Should I self-fund a pilot episode to showcase my concept?

This is a risky move. While a professionally produced pilot can be impressive, it’s a significant investment of time and money. It’s often more cost-effective to focus on developing a strong treatment and pitch deck and leveraging your network to find representation. Only consider self-funding if you have the resources and believe it’s the best way to showcase your unique vision.

What if I’m not in Los Angeles?

While being in Los Angeles can be advantageous, it’s not essential in today’s digital age. You can connect with agents and managers online, attend virtual industry events, and submit your materials remotely. However, be prepared to travel to Los Angeles if you secure representation or a development deal.

How do I protect my idea from being stolen?

Unfortunately, there’s no foolproof way to prevent your idea from being “stolen.” However, you can take steps to protect yourself:

Register your script with the Writers Guild of America (WGA).
Keep detailed records of your work, including drafts, notes, and correspondence.
Use non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) when sharing your idea with others.

Remember, execution is key. Even if someone has a similar idea, your unique approach and talent will set your project apart.

What are common mistakes to avoid when pitching?

Being unprepared: Do your research, know your audience, and rehearse your pitch.
Being arrogant or entitled: Be humble, respectful, and open to feedback.
Over-selling: Focus on the strengths of your project, but don’t make unrealistic claims.
Ignoring feedback: Listen carefully to the advice you receive and be willing to make changes.
Giving up too easily: Persistence is key in the entertainment industry.

How important is genre when pitching to Netflix?

Genre is extremely important. Netflix curates content based on specific genre preferences and viewing trends. Research what genres are currently performing well on the platform and tailor your pitch accordingly. If your project blends genres, clearly articulate how it will appeal to a specific audience.

What is a “showrunner,” and why is it important?

The showrunner is the executive producer and head writer of a television series. They are responsible for overseeing all aspects of the show, from writing and casting to production and post-production. Netflix often looks for showrunners with a proven track record of success. If you don’t have showrunning experience, consider partnering with an experienced showrunner who can bring credibility and expertise to your project.

Does Netflix favor certain types of stories (e.g., true crime, sci-fi)?

While trends fluctuate, true crime, sci-fi, fantasy, and international dramas consistently perform well on Netflix. However, they are open to all genres as long as the story is compelling and well-executed. Research Netflix’s current programming to identify gaps in their content and tailor your pitch to fill those needs.

What’s the role of data in Netflix’s decision-making process?

Netflix is famously data-driven. They use viewing data to inform their programming decisions, identify trends, and optimize their content. While you don’t need access to Netflix’s internal data, you should be aware of industry trends and audience preferences. Understanding what types of shows are performing well can help you tailor your pitch to appeal to Netflix’s data-informed sensibilities.

Pitching a show to Netflix is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires patience, persistence, a thick skin, and a unwavering belief in your project. Develop a killer concept, build your network, secure representation, and never give up on your dream. Break a leg!