My throat is raw from all of the explaining about the ins and outs of this crazy business of animation.
I consult with animation production studios, content creators and a bunch of other people that just want to get their gems made and on the air. I find myself telling the same story over an over again. Some get it and some don’t so I explain again with different metaphors.
As Stephanie Graziano, famous for “The Tick.,” once told me there are no bad ideas and they have an audience somewhere. It is the passion that pushes them forward.
What is it that I am explaining? It is the structure of a deal, the strategy of how to approach the market and how to take their first steps.
Many will have a real clear idea of what networks they would like their shows to ultimately land on. But not all of them have analyzed if their type of show is the kind of show these networks like. They just know they like that network or know that it is number 1.
Knowing the profile of each network is important. Would Disney XD hear a pitch for girly girl show? Would Nick Jr. consider a 6 – 11 year old boy’s action adventure show? No. When pitching to the network development or even the acquisition executive, know what they are looking for. Many of the executives are very gracious and will hear any pitch, but some have been honest to say that they appreciate those that pitch shows they can actually consider.
How do you know what they are looking for? Watch the networks. Does your concept seem to really fit into the programming line up? Read the trades to find out what the networks are buying or green lighting. Attend the markets, like KidScreen and MIPCOM. Get advice from those who deal with the networks all of the time.