I'm a producer at a small-ish Florida based production company. We
have recently added a content and programming division to our business
(we have primarily peformed corporate productions - commericals,
infomercials, instruction and training videos, live webcasting etc).
We've developed a few good show ideas that we think would work well on
some of the popular cable stations. These programming ideas are
non-dramatic and would mostly be suitable for such newtorks as Food,
Discovery Health, FitTv , Fine Living, even Bravo.
I am familiar with the NATPE pitch pit and also with the NAB
conference during which we will (this year) promote our expanded
services but here's my question (becuase I am getting conflicting
answers in my research):
I have had no problem producing a pilot episode of one of the ideas.
For this pilot, there are an unlimited number or expandable shows
which can be produced if the show were to get picked up. The
production value and quality of the pilot is equal (if not better)
than some of the production I see presently see on SOME (not all) of
the networks.
So do I need an agent to pitch it for me? Must I go through a
distributor? Could I first send my package to the development
offices/liaisons I see listed at www.soyouwanna.com? What kind of
procedures are there for doing this? Should I NOT send in a pilot? Or
send a pilot only with an agent or attorney? Or no pilot at all unless
asked? Should I send a query letter only?
Obviuosly my concern is that, since I don't have broadcast credentials
in this format, that many cable networks will not even listen to the
pitch at all. BUT if somehow I can demonstrate the qulaity of the
programming concept and the production value together, I MIGHT MIGHT
MIGHT get a second look.
What is the best way to go about this and what types of "deals" would
follow based upon the chosen path? Is it possible that they might pick
up the concept if they like what they see AND let me produce it (under
their executive direction, of course)? |