Anyone ever submit a pilot to a network?

robertwerden

robertwerden

Well-known member
I'm planning on taking one of my ideas and make a pilot for a scifi tv show. I was hoping someone here may have had experience in this area and give me some tips on doing this.

Basically im wondering what studios look for before they even consider looking at a pilot. Also where would I send a pilot to? Would going through a agent be better than trying to directly submit to someone like scifi channel or a major network?

Any tips would be appreciated.
 
An entertainment lawyer will protect your interests as the author of the work you are planning to try and sell.
 
I just finished working on a pilot recently. Here is the way it worked:

1. A development deal was made and financed by the network.
2. The network reviewed the script, bible and budget for pilot.
3. A broadcast license was issued along with the funds to produce the pilot.
4. Pilot was made and sent to the network.
5. Network now decides if they will pick up the show.
 
Basically im wondering what studios look for before they even consider looking at a pilot. Also where would I send a pilot to? Would going through a agent be better than trying to directly submit to someone like scifi channel or a major network?
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Bravo for thinking big! Suggestions for an approach that would be most beneficial to you are dependent on your background and your expectations for this project. Could you share more about yourself and why you would like to make a pilot?

thanks.
 
You'll need to secure an agent at minimum. The agent is the one who will set your meetings. An entertainment attorney is someone you should have in the room with you anytime you pitch.

Take the time to know the mandates each network is currently working under. Just because SciFi has a particular show on now (e.g., scripted half set in space), doesn't mean that's what they're looking for now.

Once you have your pitch package assembled, you should go in with a leave-behind one-pager and be prepared with an episodic breakdown for up to thirteen episodes. You won't need a bible to pitch, but you should be prepared to explain your concept in more detail if questions arise.

Generally it is not advisable to produce a pilot on your own dime. If the network commissions a pilot, that'll almost always be underwritten by them. If you're pitching a reality or gameshow, you might put together a three to five-minute taster or sales piece that showcases your talent (that is, the host of the show) in some different settings and situations.

Even if you have every detail - including talent - worked out in advance, be prepared for the network to try and exercise control over what will become their property should they decide to license it.

e
 
JY_Blue said:
Bravo for thinking big! Suggestions for an approach that would be most beneficial to you are dependent on your background and your expectations for this project. Could you share more about yourself and why you would like to make a pilot?

thanks.
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I have a story in my head that I cant stop thinking about. Everyone I tell the story to tends to continue my story back to me with an excitement that normally you do not see in people who are listening to a pitch idea. The excitement I feel for the idea and the excitement others have when they hear it, drove me to go from a film short, to a feature, to a series.
Some stories can only be told in a series. No book or film would be able to contain and explain the story.
 
Erik Olson said:
You'll need to secure an agent at minimum. The agent is the one who will set your meetings. An entertainment attorney is someone you should have in the room with you anytime you pitch.

Take the time to know the mandates each network is currently working under. Just because SciFi has a particular show on now (e.g., scripted half set in space), doesn't mean that's what they're looking for now.

Once you have your pitch package assembled, you should go in with a leave-behind one-pager and be prepared with an episodic breakdown for up to thirteen episodes. You won't need a bible to pitch, but you should be prepared to explain your concept in more detail if questions arise.

Generally it is not advisable to produce a pilot on your own dime. If the network commissions a pilot, that'll almost always be underwritten by them. If you're pitching a reality or gameshow, you might put together a three to five-minute taster or sales piece that showcases your talent (that is, the host of the show) in some different settings and situations.

Even if you have every detail - including talent - worked out in advance, be prepared for the network to try and exercise control over what will become their property should they decide to license it.

e
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I really had no idea a studio would pay for a pilot. I guess that is why they are so rare. That takes some pressure off from having to film the pilot on my own dime as you mentioned. I guess if they like the plot they will anti up for it to happen.

I'm working on the screen play now.
 
Let me know if you decide you want concept art to go with your pitch package.

Always lookin' for work, here :).
 
thanks for describing your enthusiasm for the project. if you would like to attract the attention of professional gatekeepers such as agents, attorneys and network execs to an idea of yours for the first time ... I suggest working towards trying to make a splash with a short reel.
 
There is a robust pilot market. Most of the pilots are never seen by the larger population. I know of dozens, underwritten by networks and major studios, that never saw the light of day.

One of my good friends makes his living post-coordinating pilots and initial orders.

e
 
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