Hi Eric. An excellent presentation. It's what you share near the end that is so important as well. As both an executive hearing pitches and as part of a team making pitches, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of doing your homework on the potential buyer. When I was at CBS Kids, people would come in with terrific concepts yet oblivious to our mandate at the time for educational content. So your points about Dreamworks as writer-driven and Cartoon Network as artist-driven is right on the money, although I have seen my share of exceptions to this rule. Thanks again!
You laid this out really well! Definitely going to help with our pitch bible. The point about targeting the pitch to a network’s specific sensibilities was something I hadn’t considered.
I'm pitching a show on my own to WildBrain. It's inspired by 2010s canadian/Canadian-produced cartoons aimed at kids with three kids in a band who are also superheroes. Awesome video, bu the way! Super-helpful!
@@4li_j999 It's possible! But you'll have to convince the buyer that you and your team are talented and experienced enough to deliver what could be up to 300 minutes of broadcast quality animation on time and on budget. Also remember that they're looking at up to 8 or 9 million dollars of risk.
@@SurvivingAnimation Thanks for the help, If I wanna pitch a show And animate it I should probably get more experience and grow some trust in the industry before pitching my idea. Like you said. How can I gain the trust of the producer/Buyers quicker? And what kind of experience should I pursue to best gain their faith in me? Thanks for your help very much appreciate it 😁😁
Hey Eric one suggestion - your're content is highly informative and your editing is good. Please remove the music from your videos so we can properly hear everything you're saying in detail. The music is dulling down all that critical educational information you are providing!
Thanks for the advice, man! I'll try to improve my mix on the next one. But I like having a little bit of BG music. Actually, I have a really cheap wired microphone too so that doesn't help. Haha.
Honestly your audio quality is good. If you're serious about youtube I'd look up Blue Yeti (what I use) or some greater competitors, but it's not that necessary. Your channel is primarily educational so the music should be non existent or lowered 5-10 db. Barely noticeable. Your words are your content. As such, being able to hear them clearly is of the most importance
I'm so stupid, I actually HAVE a blue yeti that I bought for a script table read a long while ago! But I've just been recording literally using either my Google Pixel 2 or my girlfriend's iPad front facing camera! :)
Totally hear you on the either barely noticeable music or none at all. Maybe it's also that I'm super insecure about the sound of my voice. Agh! I guess I just have to get over it! Haha.
Surviving Animation don't need to be insecure about it. Because the first thing i notice was the fact you have a very good delivery. Your prononciation, flow and the tone of your voice are all excellent.
@@SurvivingAnimation sir Eric, i didn't even know that this was an old video. But still, very powerful! I just discovered your channel through friends last month and immediately subscribed! Thank you again for uploading these!!!
That was really helpful! I've put together a series bible that's pretty much all worldbuilding. It hadn't occurred to me to have a version that easier to digest for pitching. Thank you!
Hi! I'm trying to get my first pitch bible for a contests of CN. I'm amateur artist with a cartoon style and I have a few ideas to develop. What advice can u give me? I'm kind of lost but your video really help me and now I need to get focus in what I want to do for my pitch bible. Also thanks so much!
5 ปีที่แล้ว +1
I didn’t know you used to work for slugterra. I used to make my own mini comics about slugs and they inspired me to get into cartoon creation. I love your work and your channel is super helpful!
Hi. I don't have a team but I am currently working on a project for pitching an episodic saga type cartoon series. Is a team required to move forward, or would the studio provide the animators as part of the deal?
Generally, the less you can provide in terms of overall package (writing, directing, designing, production capacity, etc) the more you have to ask, which makes the pitch less likely to succeed. To prove yourself (if you're new) consider self-producing a sample to show your talent and vision. Then a financier or distributor will be more interested in working with you. Hope that helps!
My friends and I ended up creating this little story based off of a fully improvised table top rpg we tried out. I’m wanting to ask if they’d want to eventually make it into a cartoon for Cartoon Network. Thanks for the tips!
Hi Eric thank you . this video remind when i went to Toronnto Film School when i pitch my game and they gave us i think 2 weeks to 3 weeks to pitch our board games and as well as my games and and i dont really prepared , all i know is just to learned to animate games not knowing i need to tell stories of my games and im glad i did not failed it. LOL .
Not really. But you can google shows that you like and at 'show bible' to the search. That might result in some examples that will assist to the information I already mentioned in the video.
They're mostly the same thing, but I'd say people would sometime refer to the Pitch Deck as the presentation - as in a powerpoint or slide show. Where a bible is more of a leave behind that is meant to be read offline.
I'm actually working on a story that's been bugging me since 9th grade and I'm not a writer or anything but I feel like this story needs to be told I was gonna pitch it to federator studios can you help me out?
Thanks for watching! My suggestion to you is that you find a friend that you really trust that's a decent writer and work with him to create the story first! Going from zero experience to fully financed animated series with a buyer isn't really a practical path forward, IMO. Instead, work on your story and make sure it's complete before you consider what to do next! I hope that helps!
Hi great video. Your advice really helped me. I wanted to ask a question. Would it be beneficial to add in background art of certain areas/places that would appear in the cartoon in a pitch bible? I read some articles on what to include and I came across this advice. Also I read that it's good to have drawings of the protagonist that shows off their personality, and to have a title card with images of the characters that visually shows the tone of the show.
Thanks for watching! As for your questions, I think the main character art and title card is more important than the backgrounds unless your story is highly dependent on a specific location in order to be fully understood. I hope that helps!
this is exactly what i needed, thank you so much! however i do have one question. i’m a senior in high school & ive been wanting to work on (& eventually make my own) cartoons since i was a child, but is it possible to get into this industry & produce animated shows if i am a creative writing & psychology double major opposed to having a more artistic/animation type major? i’m more passionate about communicating my knowledge & humor through my writing/characters rather than my drawings
You're welcome and Absolutely! If writing and story is your passion, then look into the 'screenplay' writing format. It's very specific and requires lots of understanding of what works for TV and film (as opposed to books, plays, essays, etc.). I wish you the best of luck!
Thanks for watching! I think it's fine, but not incredibly original. That kind of comparisons happen a lot more in live-action pitches. But, if you really want or think a celebrity voice is perfect for your pitch - they're actually not impossible to get! Voice work is easy and fun for them and can, in some cases, be affordable for buyers.
Thanks for the video! I have a few questions though. You mentioned how different companies favor different kinds of series, so which companies do you believe would favor a more story and action driven serialized animated show? Also what advice do you have a for a freshman in college trying to get into the industry later down the road?
I would say that most companies with the slight exception of Cartoon Network are OK with serialized action. As for advice for a college freshman, well that really depends on what particular aspect of animation you're interested in pursuing. For example, directing, designing, audio engineering, producing, and writing are all completely different paths. So, I guess I'd say start by pursuing which skills and professions interest you the most!
Eric, thank you for this amazing video series! Can a printed pitch bible be cold mailed to buyers and networks or new program development execs? If so, should I give them a heads up that I will be sending it to them? Or are pitch bibles strictly reserved for pitch meetings? Thank you!
Hello Joseph and sorry for my delayed response. Do NOT - under any circumstances - send unsolicited materials to a major network or development execs. They are usually required to immediately throw them away. Please see my video on Submission Release forms (which need to be signed prior to submitting an idea).
@@SurvivingAnimation, thank you very much for your response! One more question, in your opinion, what is the best way to get the name of the development executive at a network that you would request a pitch meeting from?
Hey Eric - these videos are fantastic resources, thanks for making them. Do you like to see pitches that reference other shows, as examples of the kind of tone, format or character traits that the pitcher is aiming for in his/her show?
I'm glad you're enjoying and thanks for your question! Hmmm... That's OK, but I'd be careful not to rely on comparisons as a way to make others understand your show. I think it's OK for agents, managers, and executives to make these comparisons when they speak to each other. But, as a creator of a new series, you have the opportunity to be much more creative than that.
Thanks so much for making this video. I'm currently working on a pitch with some friends; we're in the very early writing/development phases. Even reading the comments is helping me a lot! I have two questions if you have the time to answer: 1. Do studios take into account the previous work experience of the team when deciding to move forward with a pitch? I.e. the creator has previously worked on other animated series (as a writer, storyboard artist, etc.) 2. Is including a pilot recommended? Such as a fully animated pilot or even just a full-length animatic?
Hey there and thanks for watching and for your questions! 1) Definitely. But the work doesn't have to be official studio work. One very strong selling point is to have a finished animated film that you've made independently or while at school. 2) I'd say no. But if you're going to put more work into your project, I'd say a pilot script is a much better investment.
Hi Eric, my name is Victor Cruz. You and I met back in 1998 when I was about to graduate from Talent Unlimited High School. A high school that MTV had adopted at the time. Your department actually helped with cartoons I was designing for my yearbook. I was so happy to have stumbled upon your video. I would love to reconnect, Just let me know how.
Hi Eric - Regarding the 'Team Section'... What do you recommend if someone is just pitching a concept, but not pitching to create the show? I have created show concepts and characters, but I am not interested in creating every episode. I would be more interested in selling the show idea. In that case should it just be a Contact Section rather than a Team Section? Thank you for creating these videos! They're very helpful.
Hey there and thanks for watching. Good question! The bottom line is that, as they say in Hollywood, 'Ideas are a dime a dozen.' So, no real partner or distribution company buys just an idea. They buy fully formed Intellectual properties with marketplace history, or fully formed ideas that are executed by a team (see my video 'A Pitch Bible is not enough.'). Also, Show Runners and creators typically do not write the actual screenplay for every episode. So, that's more the norm, not the exception. I hope that helps!
is it possible to work in “animation” but have no drawing skills? i want to write screenplays for animated shows and movies but i can’t draw at all! is it possible to still pitch your ideas for an animated show and get into the writers room for one if you can’t draw?
Absolutely! I would say the majority - if not 99% of the people that write animation don't draw at all! Also, producers like myself and the entire support system around animation (editors, financiers, after effects artists, CG riggers, etc.) don't draw either. If you want to go through the writer's path, you need to study the craft, write at the very least several 'specs' of existing shows, and then an original of your own to show your voice. Then, there are paths (including being a writer's assistant or having work strong enough to get your representation by an agent) that will take you towards being a writer for a series. I wish you luck, friend!
There's no formal rule. Also, it really depends on how much text you have per page vs how much art you have per page. But, I'd say the average is about 15-20 pages.
Great video! My question is, when you say the depth of the show could include hundreds of episodes, are you including hundreds of springboards/episode synopsis in the pitch bible? Or just a dozen or so of your best? Thanks!
Hey there thanks for watching! Haha I realized I might have been speaking a little in hyperbole! If your show is a sitcom, then it should have the potential for hundreds of episodes. But you only need about 10 springboards maximum to prove yourself as a writer. If your genre is serial episodic, then you should be prepared for a 1-3 season arc depending on how much time you need to tell your master story. I hope that helps!
Wow! Very resourceful vid thanks for this one! Just a question, what if i dont have a team? Lets say i can produce my pitch bible alone. How will that affect my pitch? Thanks! :)
Thanks for watching! That really depends on who you are, your experience, and whether or not your pitch bible is well-executed. Generally, I'd say it's near impossible to get a new animated series financed by a major corporation without a significant amount of TV animation experience. But, if your bible is just INCREDIBLE and your talent is UNDENIABLE. There is precedent for a new-comer to get some kind of development deal where the buyer then buys your pitch with the caveat that they will team you up with the right talent/production expertise to make the show. Hope that helps!
Hello Sir, I have created just unique fictional characters for children's tv animation series. How can I get production/animation company adapt my character's concept and make a series based on it? I have no experience in animation industry.
Hello and thanks for watching! Well, that's not going to be very easy if you have no experience in the industry. Perhaps you could consider starting off by trying to get a kid graphic novel series written and published first?
About the buyers and knowing which ones are more writer/artist-centric, how can you figure that out to tweak a pitch bible accordingly? For instance, let's say I have a project that is writer-centric but I end up pitching to Cartoon Network, how would I know beforehand that CN is more artist-centric in their process? Is there an outright way to know or do I just learn from the experiences of others?
Good question! I'd say most networks and buyers do their best to try to explain their tastes and brand whenever they can. So, I'd start by researching the top executives and their speaking arrangements at professional festivals. Also, mid and lower tier executives and assistants are happy to tell you what their channel/brand needs. Hopefully, by the time you get those pitches - you always know what they want before you do the pitch!
So... Wanting to start animating a pilot for having pitching material, but like- How to start when you are in zero's? Like, no team, and stuff. What would be the perfect first step to start on it?
Hey thanks for the advice! I just wanna ask when making a pitch bible, does it matter if I make it traditionally or digitally as I’m an artist who’s more comfortable doing traditional when drawing my characters. Again, thanks!
@@tamydoodles7200 Good question! Of course, every case is specific, but I will say that writing a bible and presenting it to a buyer isn't effective if you haven't completed something beforehand that can show you're serious about your craft (something like a finished and well-reviewed screenplay or a short animated film). So, although it's good to write for your own preparation, don't think that no prior experience and just a show bible will get you your own animated series. I hope that makes sense!
Hello, I'm a young artist and very interested in the idea of animation pitch bibles. Is there such thing as an animation pitch bible consultant? I think that would be a really fitting job for me. I'd be able to consult, review and help and people with their pitch bible. Unfortunately I can find anything about such a job online. If there is such a job, would you mind recommending what kind of classes I should take in college to prepare myself for the field. Animation classes is an obvious, but I'm guessing I should take a business class (as in entertainment business) class also. If I could get any feedback or advice would be amazing! Thank you for the helpful video and your time. I hope you have a lovely day and good luck with your future projects!
Hey there and thanks for watching. Hmm. That's might be a very narrow job path. But, I think what you're talking about is getting into Development in general (which is one of my main skills/experiences). To be good at development and to consult on other people's work, you really need industry experience developing properties and having them greenlight. These paths usually start from assistant jobs or Talent Agency internships/mentor programs and the lead to Creative Executive and Producer roles. Only then will people take your advice as 'market savvy.' As for other college skills, I would say script/story development, screenwriting, marketing, advertising, and copywriting are also the foundations of bible writing. I hope that helps!
@@SurvivingAnimation Thank you so much for getting back with me. That's lots of info to take in, but I'm excited to do some research on the topic. I appreciate your help and look forward to seeing new videos!
Thank you for this video! Question, how can someone with no prior animation experience get an actual show made? I’m an artist, so I have fine art experience, but do they not care about that? And also, would it be a good idea put my concept on social media and build a following before I secure a buyer/network?
Hey there and thanks for watching! To be honest, your chances are very very low. In fact, I can't think of anyone in my career who ever got a show without ever having any kind of narrative or animated media made prior (unless you're talking about an author getting a book adapted or an artist/writer getting their graphic novel made into an animated series). As for your 2nd question, social media can help. But the following has to be quite large to attract any real attention (100K or more on any platform). Sorry, but I hope that helps your understanding!
@@SurvivingAnimation thanks for the reply! So if I could try and animate a nice looking short preview of what the show would be like, would my chances increase (along with promoting it on social media)? I’m willing to do whatever is necessary to bring this idea to life.
@@ashyartt Personally, I wouldn't expect that a single animated test is going to get you a show. Remember that 'show runners' are composites of experienced, writers, directors, and animation professionals. If you really love the industry, then enter and get some real job years behind you as you develop your concept. Then, when your timing is right, you can pitch and have your own reputation behind you as one of the big marketing elements. I hope that helps!
One more question...what about pitching my idea to Netflix? I see my creation as an action-adventure superhero series like Troolhunters and Voltron. I don't see it as a silly kids cartoon like Teen Titans Go. But then again, do I really have a say-so in that if gets picked up? lol
For Netflix, you will probably need at least one of two things (if not both). 1 - A long proven history in the marketplace through successful sales of the product at a national level. 2 - A fully developed concept and team with award-winning experience somewhere 'above the line.' Remember that any company who is going to fully invest in an animated series is looking to risk anywhere from $5-8 million dollars in production costs only, not including the millions in promotional costs and internal executive time. So, that's why there's very few (if any) examples of a first time creator getting that kind of chance without something already being pre-existing or without their talent being acknowledged in some other medium first. Sorry for the tough news! Pitching a show to Netflix as a first step in your animation career might be a little steep of an initial jump! Perhaps you should look to shorter-form examples in the marketplace like indy animation or film festival cartoons as a better initial stepping stone? Or better yet, maybe you can start to cut your teeth by working on someone else's productions first?
Another great video! Two Questions: 1 - Should the pitch bible be on paper (hard copy) or digital? Or...both? And no. 2 - What if you don't have a "team" yet? (this is my problem. lol) And a sub-question of that...WHO needs to be on your team? (writers, animators, producers? what...?)
Thanks and I always appreciate your thoughtful questions! 1 - Definitely digital. Standard format is PDF that can be emailed or dropbox'd after the meeting. 2 - The team and who needs to be on it is always case-by-case. For your case, you're the writer/creator/artist. So your pitch will be from that of an 'original author.' I would say the first step for you would be to pitch to agencies, producers, or animation studios since a network/distributor would not likely be willing to take a risk on an author adapting work into animation without prior animation experience. Hope that helps!
Actually, I'm just the writer and creator. I'm not the artist. I hired an artist for my books. He's from India so I don't think he'd come here just help pitch it. lol
Oh fun! Unfortunately that's pretty tough to professionally make happen. But, you can always write your own fan-fiction as a way just to enjoy yourself, but also to one day get noticed as a writer!
I have been working on this logline, would you kindly tell me if it needs improvements: "The surreal misadventures of an optimistic bird who lives in a floating island on the sky."
Eric, what's the best way to put together a pitch bible? Just print out all the pages and put them in a 3 ring binder? Or leave the pages loose and put them in a folder? Is there a better way to do this? Thank you again!
@@Puffs Sure if you want! But it's not necessary. Giving them via email later means they can share it amongst their fellow executives much more easily!
@@SurvivingAnimation, Eric, thank you so much for answering all of my questions. Your knowledge and information is so important for newcomers like myself. Thank you, thank you, thank you! You rock!
So let's say I think adapting a video game franchise into an animated series would work, should I include how popular the games are? Also, does every section need a title or header. Like EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW right over the executive overview?
Hi Eric, I am a writer and character designer, and I have been working on a more teen and adult focused action animated series. Ive gotten the bible done, along with character designs and four written episodes and am really struggling on trying to make the necessary connections or finding the right network of people to really put me in a position to tell someone about the story. do you have any advice for someone who lives in milwaukee wisconsin. lol Ive gone through the WGA and have been copyrighted but that doesn't really get me recognition and I'm trying to find a team to help me really bring the ideas to life. any advice at all will, help, i know what I've said was vague.
Hey there and first of all thanks for watching! Write me a DM on LinkedIN and we can dig in with a little more detail. If you're interested in a review of your materials and realistic path forward, I do limited consultations for a base fee.
Hi Eric, this was very informative thank you! I have a concept for a show and a few shorts but I do not have a team and most likely can not convince a studio that I could create a show on my own. What would you recommend I do to try and take the next steps? If you have a few minutes check out my channel to get an idea of what the show entails, however take with a grain of salt as I did everything myself so I have a long way to go. Thanks again!
Howdy, Eric. I am working on a show called "The Adventures of Noah", the plot/storyline of the show is "A young 9-year-old boy named Noah creates a Crew with Members and a Co-Leader. Along the way, they do Adventures, Activities, Explore characters personality and many more, but their disturbed by the Rival named Brenda and she has a group of other rivalry's to destroy the world. Therefore, things go chaotic in the house." The setting is that their house is in the middle of the forest. Here's an example of an episode that has a good storyline. Title: "Friends Road Trip" Plot: "Crystal plans a road trip with her friends, but it becomes a disaster." The Character "Crystal" is a ten-year-old girl who likes Apple Picking, Fixing, Love, Ugly, Road Trips with Friends, Birthday party, etc. What do you think?
Hey there and thanks for watching my channel! First little bit of advice - never cold pitch a new concept on a public social media platform, especially to someone you've never met (me) who doesn't know anything about you. It's best to introduce yourself and your work and then ask if they're looking for projects and which GENRES they're interested in first. Then, on that introductory correspondence (which again should be direct and not public), give a basic overview of your skills or experience or point to a link that describes your company). As for your idea, my apologies, but there's no way for me to respond to it. It's just not the right forum for that! Sorry, but again, thanks for watching!
Hey there and thanks for watching! Every buyer has different needs, so I'd say it's hard to say that your bible is 'approved.' Also, it's difficult to just ask people to read and give you feedback if you're not already inside of the industry and have strong contacts. But, if you're interested in a consultation, I have a rate that I use for reviewing show bibles, giving notes, and helping newer creators get started. Just let me know if you're interested!
Thanks for watching and good question! Actually, I think you should do it, but not for sales. If the person is young and new to writing, creating a bible is a way to organize thoughts. It can be used as a reference point as you write so you never forget the 'big ideas' that got you so excited in the first place. Plus, it also lets you see the project as a whole before you get into the details of writing the actual story.
Just recorded 10 takes of my pitch and gave up. I think it’s too late, and I’m hungry. I’ll try again tomorrow. GRrrr I’ve had the best rants in front friends and family. I just can’t channel it for this.
Hey question for ya I'm totally ok with you saying no; is there anyway I could just send you what I've done in terms of my bible and let me know of hey you're going in the right direction or No no no don't do this. I'm a voice actor and writer so the art work isn't done and right now I've been setting up the text around the images I have in mind. Again, totally ok if the answer is no I just figured the more opinions I get the better.
Hey there and thanks for watching and apologies for my late reply. Anyway, unfortunately this is a slippery slope. There's no quick way to tell you you're going in the right direction or not without a deeper dive into who you are, your talents, your goals, etc. So, unless it's a full consultation, I don't do 'will you just take a look at this' kind of work! My sincere apologies! But, if you'd like do a professional consult, I can be reached via LinkedIN to discuss!
![NISAMANEE - TADA (ท้าดา) [ OFFICIAL MV ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/hcQHEPMmJpU/mqdefault.jpg)
Hi Eric. An excellent presentation. It's what you share near the end that is so important as well. As both an executive hearing pitches and as part of a team making pitches, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of doing your homework on the potential buyer. When I was at CBS Kids, people would come in with terrific concepts yet oblivious to our mandate at the time for educational content. So your points about Dreamworks as writer-driven and Cartoon Network as artist-driven is right on the money, although I have seen my share of exceptions to this rule. Thanks again!
Thanks very much for your comment!
You laid this out really well! Definitely going to help with our pitch bible. The point about targeting the pitch to a network’s specific sensibilities was something I hadn’t considered.
Thanks for watching! :)
I've seen this video at least eight times. Extremely helpful for organizing the pitch Bible. Thank you!
Thanks for watching 8 times!
I'm pitching a show on my own to WildBrain. It's inspired by 2010s canadian/Canadian-produced cartoons aimed at kids with three kids in a band who are also superheroes. Awesome video, bu the way! Super-helpful!
I meant to just listen, but ended up writing a page of notes in my sketchbook. Thank you!
Haha! Thanks for watching!
@@SurvivingAnimation
Hi
I was just wondering if you could pitch the animation but also animate the show as well?
@@4li_j999 It's possible! But you'll have to convince the buyer that you and your team are talented and experienced enough to deliver what could be up to 300 minutes of broadcast quality animation on time and on budget. Also remember that they're looking at up to 8 or 9 million dollars of risk.
@@SurvivingAnimation
Thanks for the help, If I wanna pitch a show And animate it I should probably get more experience and grow some trust in the industry before pitching my idea. Like you said.
How can I gain the trust of the producer/Buyers quicker? And what kind of experience should I pursue to best gain their faith in me?
Thanks for your help very much appreciate it
😁😁
@@4li_j999 Make fantastic high quality work! Then we will need to come to you!
Hey Eric one suggestion - your're content is highly informative and your editing is good. Please remove the music from your videos so we can properly hear everything you're saying in detail. The music is dulling down all that critical educational information you are providing!
Thanks for the advice, man! I'll try to improve my mix on the next one. But I like having a little bit of BG music. Actually, I have a really cheap wired microphone too so that doesn't help. Haha.
Honestly your audio quality is good. If you're serious about youtube I'd look up Blue Yeti (what I use) or some greater competitors, but it's not that necessary. Your channel is primarily educational so the music should be non existent or lowered 5-10 db. Barely noticeable. Your words are your content. As such, being able to hear them clearly is of the most importance
I'm so stupid, I actually HAVE a blue yeti that I bought for a script table read a long while ago! But I've just been recording literally using either my Google Pixel 2 or my girlfriend's iPad front facing camera! :)
Totally hear you on the either barely noticeable music or none at all. Maybe it's also that I'm super insecure about the sound of my voice. Agh! I guess I just have to get over it! Haha.
Surviving Animation don't need to be insecure about it. Because the first thing i notice was the fact you have a very good delivery. Your prononciation, flow and the tone of your voice are all excellent.
I always love ur videos, sir Eric. They are consistently on point, informative, empowering, and incredibly inspiring.
Thank you for saying that and thanks for watching!
@@SurvivingAnimation sir Eric, i didn't even know that this was an old video. But still, very powerful! I just discovered your channel through friends last month and immediately subscribed! Thank you again for uploading these!!!
Thanks for all your videos, Eric. I've watched all of them numerous times. Particularly with this one and the pitch meeting one, I've lost count.
Thank you so much for watching so many times!
That was really helpful! I've put together a series bible that's pretty much all worldbuilding. It hadn't occurred to me to have a version that easier to digest for pitching. Thank you!
Thanks for watching!
Very insightful - thank you for sharing this valuable information
Hi! I'm trying to get my first pitch bible for a contests of CN. I'm amateur artist with a cartoon style and I have a few ideas to develop. What advice can u give me? I'm kind of lost but your video really help me and now I need to get focus in what I want to do for my pitch bible. Also thanks so much!
I didn’t know you used to work for slugterra. I used to make my own mini comics about slugs and they inspired me to get into cartoon creation. I love your work and your channel is super helpful!
Oh cool! Yep I worked on the development and first 13 episodes. Thanks for watching! I'll keep at it!
Hi. I don't have a team but I am currently working on a project for pitching an episodic saga type cartoon series. Is a team required to move forward, or would the studio provide the animators as part of the deal?
Generally, the less you can provide in terms of overall package (writing, directing, designing, production capacity, etc) the more you have to ask, which makes the pitch less likely to succeed. To prove yourself (if you're new) consider self-producing a sample to show your talent and vision. Then a financier or distributor will be more interested in working with you. Hope that helps!
@@SurvivingAnimation When you say a sample, do you mean like an animatic, a pilot, or an entire web series? (I'm guessing the more the better)
@@markcarls1896 If you've never completed an animation before, a fully animated pilot is the minimum.
Hey Eric, great videos. As we are busy with our pitch bible this has really helped guide us in the right direction.
Thanks so much for watching and I'm glad the video was useful for you and your team!
Thank you, this is very helpful 👍
This is very practical and helpful. 😃 Thanks!
My friends and I ended up creating this little story based off of a fully improvised table top rpg we tried out. I’m wanting to ask if they’d want to eventually make it into a cartoon for Cartoon Network. Thanks for the tips!
Sounds awesome!
Very cool. Thank you so much..
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for all this advice! Nice video! Instant sub and notif!
Thank you for watching! I'll post a new video pretty soon!
Hi Eric thank you . this video remind when i went to Toronnto Film School when i pitch my game and they gave us i think 2 weeks to 3 weeks to pitch our board games and as well as my games and and i dont really prepared , all i know is just to learned to animate games not knowing i need to tell stories of my games and im glad i did not failed it. LOL .
Great video! The details were really helpful! And good for those who wanna get into the animation industry, such as myself.
Can’t wait to see more! :3
Thanks for watching! More coming soon!
Is there any pitch bibles templates, because I’m 17 years old working on my new dream cartoon series, can someone please help me
Not really. But you can google shows that you like and at 'show bible' to the search. That might result in some examples that will assist to the information I already mentioned in the video.
Hey Eric, thanks for this video. What is the difference between a Pitch Bible and a Pitch Deck?
They're mostly the same thing, but I'd say people would sometime refer to the Pitch Deck as the presentation - as in a powerpoint or slide show. Where a bible is more of a leave behind that is meant to be read offline.
I'm actually working on a story that's been bugging me since 9th grade and I'm not a writer or anything but I feel like this story needs to be told I was gonna pitch it to federator studios can you help me out?
Thanks for watching! My suggestion to you is that you find a friend that you really trust that's a decent writer and work with him to create the story first! Going from zero experience to fully financed animated series with a buyer isn't really a practical path forward, IMO. Instead, work on your story and make sure it's complete before you consider what to do next! I hope that helps!
Hi great video. Your advice really helped me. I wanted to ask a question. Would it be beneficial to add in background art of certain areas/places that would appear in the cartoon in a pitch bible? I read some articles on what to include and I came across this advice. Also I read that it's good to have drawings of the protagonist that shows off their personality, and to have a title card with images of the characters that visually shows the tone of the show.
Thanks for watching! As for your questions, I think the main character art and title card is more important than the backgrounds unless your story is highly dependent on a specific location in order to be fully understood. I hope that helps!
this is exactly what i needed, thank you so much! however i do have one question. i’m a senior in high school & ive been wanting to work on (& eventually make my own) cartoons since i was a child, but is it possible to get into this industry & produce animated shows if i am a creative writing & psychology double major opposed to having a more artistic/animation type major? i’m more passionate about communicating my knowledge & humor through my writing/characters rather than my drawings
You're welcome and Absolutely! If writing and story is your passion, then look into the 'screenplay' writing format. It's very specific and requires lots of understanding of what works for TV and film (as opposed to books, plays, essays, etc.). I wish you the best of luck!
@@SurvivingAnimation thank you! i’ll be sure to look into it
great advice!
Can I ask if when describing characters, can you give a suggested actor/actress?
Thanks for watching! I think it's fine, but not incredibly original. That kind of comparisons happen a lot more in live-action pitches. But, if you really want or think a celebrity voice is perfect for your pitch - they're actually not impossible to get! Voice work is easy and fun for them and can, in some cases, be affordable for buyers.
@@SurvivingAnimation Alright then. Just curious. Thanks!
Thanks for the video! I have a few questions though. You mentioned how different companies favor different kinds of series, so which companies do you believe would favor a more story and action driven serialized animated show? Also what advice do you have a for a freshman in college trying to get into the industry later down the road?
I would say that most companies with the slight exception of Cartoon Network are OK with serialized action. As for advice for a college freshman, well that really depends on what particular aspect of animation you're interested in pursuing. For example, directing, designing, audio engineering, producing, and writing are all completely different paths. So, I guess I'd say start by pursuing which skills and professions interest you the most!
Thanks for the video 🤗
Eric, thank you for this amazing video series! Can a printed pitch bible be cold mailed to buyers and networks or new program development execs? If so, should I give them a heads up that I will be sending it to them? Or are pitch bibles strictly reserved for pitch meetings? Thank you!
Hello Joseph and sorry for my delayed response. Do NOT - under any circumstances - send unsolicited materials to a major network or development execs. They are usually required to immediately throw them away. Please see my video on Submission Release forms (which need to be signed prior to submitting an idea).
@@SurvivingAnimation, thank you very much for your response! One more question, in your opinion, what is the best way to get the name of the development executive at a network that you would request a pitch meeting from?
@@Puffs Look them up on LinkedIN!
@@SurvivingAnimation thank you for your advice and this amazing video series!
Hey Eric - these videos are fantastic resources, thanks for making them. Do you like to see pitches that reference other shows, as examples of the kind of tone, format or character traits that the pitcher is aiming for in his/her show?
I'm glad you're enjoying and thanks for your question! Hmmm... That's OK, but I'd be careful not to rely on comparisons as a way to make others understand your show. I think it's OK for agents, managers, and executives to make these comparisons when they speak to each other. But, as a creator of a new series, you have the opportunity to be much more creative than that.
Thanks so much for making this video. I'm currently working on a pitch with some friends; we're in the very early writing/development phases. Even reading the comments is helping me a lot! I have two questions if you have the time to answer:
1. Do studios take into account the previous work experience of the team when deciding to move forward with a pitch? I.e. the creator has previously worked on other animated series (as a writer, storyboard artist, etc.)
2. Is including a pilot recommended? Such as a fully animated pilot or even just a full-length animatic?
Hey there and thanks for watching and for your questions! 1) Definitely. But the work doesn't have to be official studio work. One very strong selling point is to have a finished animated film that you've made independently or while at school. 2) I'd say no. But if you're going to put more work into your project, I'd say a pilot script is a much better investment.
Surviving Animation thanks so much!! I'll take that into account.
Hi Eric, my name is Victor Cruz. You and I met back in 1998 when I was about to graduate from Talent Unlimited High School. A high school that MTV had adopted at the time. Your department actually helped with cartoons I was designing for my yearbook. I was so happy to have stumbled upon your video. I would love to reconnect, Just let me know how.
Wow! Please reach out to me on LinkedIN so we can catch-up!
Hi Eric - Regarding the 'Team Section'... What do you recommend if someone is just pitching a concept, but not pitching to create the show? I have created show concepts and characters, but I am not interested in creating every episode. I would be more interested in selling the show idea. In that case should it just be a Contact Section rather than a Team Section? Thank you for creating these videos! They're very helpful.
Hey there and thanks for watching. Good question! The bottom line is that, as they say in Hollywood, 'Ideas are a dime a dozen.' So, no real partner or distribution company buys just an idea. They buy fully formed Intellectual properties with marketplace history, or fully formed ideas that are executed by a team (see my video 'A Pitch Bible is not enough.'). Also, Show Runners and creators typically do not write the actual screenplay for every episode. So, that's more the norm, not the exception. I hope that helps!
is it possible to work in “animation” but have no drawing skills? i want to write screenplays for animated shows and movies but i can’t draw at all! is it possible to still pitch your ideas for an animated show and get into the writers room for one if you can’t draw?
Absolutely! I would say the majority - if not 99% of the people that write animation don't draw at all! Also, producers like myself and the entire support system around animation (editors, financiers, after effects artists, CG riggers, etc.) don't draw either. If you want to go through the writer's path, you need to study the craft, write at the very least several 'specs' of existing shows, and then an original of your own to show your voice. Then, there are paths (including being a writer's assistant or having work strong enough to get your representation by an agent) that will take you towards being a writer for a series. I wish you luck, friend!
Is there a suggested length that the pitch bible should be? Is it usually between x and y pages long?
There's no formal rule. Also, it really depends on how much text you have per page vs how much art you have per page. But, I'd say the average is about 15-20 pages.
Great video! My question is, when you say the depth of the show could include hundreds of episodes, are you including hundreds of springboards/episode synopsis in the pitch bible? Or just a dozen or so of your best? Thanks!
Hey there thanks for watching! Haha I realized I might have been speaking a little in hyperbole! If your show is a sitcom, then it should have the potential for hundreds of episodes. But you only need about 10 springboards maximum to prove yourself as a writer. If your genre is serial episodic, then you should be prepared for a 1-3 season arc depending on how much time you need to tell your master story. I hope that helps!
OMG thank you for this
You're welcome!
Wow! Very resourceful vid thanks for this one! Just a question, what if i dont have a team? Lets say i can produce my pitch bible alone. How will that affect my pitch? Thanks! :)
Thanks for watching! That really depends on who you are, your experience, and whether or not your pitch bible is well-executed. Generally, I'd say it's near impossible to get a new animated series financed by a major corporation without a significant amount of TV animation experience. But, if your bible is just INCREDIBLE and your talent is UNDENIABLE. There is precedent for a new-comer to get some kind of development deal where the buyer then buys your pitch with the caveat that they will team you up with the right talent/production expertise to make the show. Hope that helps!
Hello Sir, I have created just unique fictional characters for children's tv animation series. How can I get production/animation company adapt my character's concept and make a series based on it? I have no experience in animation industry.
Hello and thanks for watching! Well, that's not going to be very easy if you have no experience in the industry. Perhaps you could consider starting off by trying to get a kid graphic novel series written and published first?
0:05 I was like no, homework from the curse but kinda struggling with it
Haha.
@@SurvivingAnimation 🙃😔
About the buyers and knowing which ones are more writer/artist-centric, how can you figure that out to tweak a pitch bible accordingly? For instance, let's say I have a project that is writer-centric but I end up pitching to Cartoon Network, how would I know beforehand that CN is more artist-centric in their process? Is there an outright way to know or do I just learn from the experiences of others?
Good question! I'd say most networks and buyers do their best to try to explain their tastes and brand whenever they can. So, I'd start by researching the top executives and their speaking arrangements at professional festivals. Also, mid and lower tier executives and assistants are happy to tell you what their channel/brand needs. Hopefully, by the time you get those pitches - you always know what they want before you do the pitch!
So... Wanting to start animating a pilot for having pitching material, but like- How to start when you are in zero's? Like, no team, and stuff. What would be the perfect first step to start on it?
Hey thanks for the advice! I just wanna ask when making a pitch bible, does it matter if I make it traditionally or digitally as I’m an artist who’s more comfortable doing traditional when drawing my characters. Again, thanks!
Hey thanks for watching! And nope - it doesn't matter! As long as it's good work, people will respond to it!
Surviving Animation ah cool! And also, what would be right time/age to start thinking or even make a pitch bible?
@@tamydoodles7200 Good question! Of course, every case is specific, but I will say that writing a bible and presenting it to a buyer isn't effective if you haven't completed something beforehand that can show you're serious about your craft (something like a finished and well-reviewed screenplay or a short animated film). So, although it's good to write for your own preparation, don't think that no prior experience and just a show bible will get you your own animated series. I hope that makes sense!
Surviving Animation ok! Thanks a lot!
Hello, I'm a young artist and very interested in the idea of animation pitch bibles. Is there such thing as an animation pitch bible consultant? I think that would be a really fitting job for me. I'd be able to consult, review and help and people with their pitch bible. Unfortunately I can find anything about such a job online. If there is such a job, would you mind recommending what kind of classes I should take in college to prepare myself for the field. Animation classes is an obvious, but I'm guessing I should take a business class (as in entertainment business) class also. If I could get any feedback or advice would be amazing! Thank you for the helpful video and your time. I hope you have a lovely day and good luck with your future projects!
Hey there and thanks for watching. Hmm. That's might be a very narrow job path. But, I think what you're talking about is getting into Development in general (which is one of my main skills/experiences). To be good at development and to consult on other people's work, you really need industry experience developing properties and having them greenlight. These paths usually start from assistant jobs or Talent Agency internships/mentor programs and the lead to Creative Executive and Producer roles. Only then will people take your advice as 'market savvy.' As for other college skills, I would say script/story development, screenwriting, marketing, advertising, and copywriting are also the foundations of bible writing. I hope that helps!
@@SurvivingAnimation Thank you so much for getting back with me. That's lots of info to take in, but I'm excited to do some research on the topic. I appreciate your help and look forward to seeing new videos!
Thank you for this video! Question, how can someone with no prior animation experience get an actual show made? I’m an artist, so I have fine art experience, but do they not care about that? And also, would it be a good idea put my concept on social media and build a following before I secure a buyer/network?
Hey there and thanks for watching! To be honest, your chances are very very low. In fact, I can't think of anyone in my career who ever got a show without ever having any kind of narrative or animated media made prior (unless you're talking about an author getting a book adapted or an artist/writer getting their graphic novel made into an animated series). As for your 2nd question, social media can help. But the following has to be quite large to attract any real attention (100K or more on any platform). Sorry, but I hope that helps your understanding!
@@SurvivingAnimation thanks for the reply! So if I could try and animate a nice looking short preview of what the show would be like, would my chances increase (along with promoting it on social media)? I’m willing to do whatever is necessary to bring this idea to life.
@@ashyartt Personally, I wouldn't expect that a single animated test is going to get you a show. Remember that 'show runners' are composites of experienced, writers, directors, and animation professionals. If you really love the industry, then enter and get some real job years behind you as you develop your concept. Then, when your timing is right, you can pitch and have your own reputation behind you as one of the big marketing elements. I hope that helps!
@@SurvivingAnimation it definitely does, thank you!
One more question...what about pitching my idea to Netflix? I see my creation as an action-adventure superhero series like Troolhunters and Voltron. I don't see it as a silly kids cartoon like Teen Titans Go. But then again, do I really have a say-so in that if gets picked up? lol
For Netflix, you will probably need at least one of two things (if not both). 1 - A long proven history in the marketplace through successful sales of the product at a national level. 2 - A fully developed concept and team with award-winning experience somewhere 'above the line.' Remember that any company who is going to fully invest in an animated series is looking to risk anywhere from $5-8 million dollars in production costs only, not including the millions in promotional costs and internal executive time. So, that's why there's very few (if any) examples of a first time creator getting that kind of chance without something already being pre-existing or without their talent being acknowledged in some other medium first. Sorry for the tough news! Pitching a show to Netflix as a first step in your animation career might be a little steep of an initial jump! Perhaps you should look to shorter-form examples in the marketplace like indy animation or film festival cartoons as a better initial stepping stone? Or better yet, maybe you can start to cut your teeth by working on someone else's productions first?
Another great video! Two Questions: 1 - Should the pitch bible be on paper (hard copy) or digital? Or...both? And no. 2 - What if you don't have a "team" yet? (this is my problem. lol) And a sub-question of that...WHO needs to be on your team? (writers, animators, producers? what...?)
Thanks and I always appreciate your thoughtful questions! 1 - Definitely digital. Standard format is PDF that can be emailed or dropbox'd after the meeting. 2 - The team and who needs to be on it is always case-by-case. For your case, you're the writer/creator/artist. So your pitch will be from that of an 'original author.' I would say the first step for you would be to pitch to agencies, producers, or animation studios since a network/distributor would not likely be willing to take a risk on an author adapting work into animation without prior animation experience. Hope that helps!
Actually, I'm just the writer and creator. I'm not the artist. I hired an artist for my books. He's from India so I don't think he'd come here just help pitch it. lol
Oh I see! Haha!
But what if I made my own character to be in an already existing show What do I do???
Oh fun! Unfortunately that's pretty tough to professionally make happen. But, you can always write your own fan-fiction as a way just to enjoy yourself, but also to one day get noticed as a writer!
I have been working on this logline, would you kindly tell me if it needs improvements:
"The surreal misadventures of an optimistic bird who lives in a floating island on the sky."
I think it's not bad! But grammatically, I'd say that things live 'on' on island, not 'in' an island (unless they literally live on the inside of it).
@@SurvivingAnimation Alright, I wasn't paying attention to my grammar. Thank you.
Your hair is grey but you look so young. Amazing!
Eric, what's the best way to put together a pitch bible? Just print out all the pages and put them in a 3 ring binder? Or leave the pages loose and put them in a folder? Is there a better way to do this? Thank you again!
PDF! Nobody prints any more!
@@SurvivingAnimation, haha! Gotcha! But if you get a pitch meeting, should you leave them with a printed copy of your pitch bible also?
@@Puffs Sure if you want! But it's not necessary. Giving them via email later means they can share it amongst their fellow executives much more easily!
@@SurvivingAnimation, Eric, thank you so much for answering all of my questions. Your knowledge and information is so important for newcomers like myself. Thank you, thank you, thank you! You rock!
So let's say I think adapting a video game franchise into an animated series would work, should I include how popular the games are?
Also, does every section need a title or header. Like EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW right over the executive overview?
One day I will pitch my own tv series
Do you have to have a team to make a pitch
Hi Eric, I am a writer and character designer, and I have been working on a more teen and adult focused action animated series. Ive gotten the bible done, along with character designs and four written episodes and am really struggling on trying to make the necessary connections or finding the right network of people to really put me in a position to tell someone about the story. do you have any advice for someone who lives in milwaukee wisconsin. lol Ive gone through the WGA and have been copyrighted but that doesn't really get me recognition and I'm trying to find a team to help me really bring the ideas to life. any advice at all will, help, i know what I've said was vague.
Hey there and first of all thanks for watching! Write me a DM on LinkedIN and we can dig in with a little more detail. If you're interested in a review of your materials and realistic path forward, I do limited consultations for a base fee.
www.linkedin.com/in/eric-calderon-2162b9/
Hi Eric, this was very informative thank you! I have a concept for a show and a few shorts but I do not have a team and most likely can not convince a studio that I could create a show on my own. What would you recommend I do to try and take the next steps? If you have a few minutes check out my channel to get an idea of what the show entails, however take with a grain of salt as I did everything myself so I have a long way to go. Thanks again!
Howdy, Eric. I am working on a show called "The Adventures of Noah", the plot/storyline of the show is "A young 9-year-old boy named Noah creates a Crew with Members and a Co-Leader. Along the way, they do Adventures, Activities, Explore characters personality and many more, but their disturbed by the Rival named Brenda and she has a group of other rivalry's to destroy the world. Therefore, things go chaotic in the house." The setting is that their house is in the middle of the forest. Here's an example of an episode that has a good storyline.
Title: "Friends Road Trip"
Plot: "Crystal plans a road trip with her friends, but it becomes a disaster."
The Character "Crystal" is a ten-year-old girl who likes Apple Picking, Fixing, Love, Ugly, Road Trips with Friends, Birthday party, etc.
What do you think?
Hey there and thanks for watching my channel! First little bit of advice - never cold pitch a new concept on a public social media platform, especially to someone you've never met (me) who doesn't know anything about you. It's best to introduce yourself and your work and then ask if they're looking for projects and which GENRES they're interested in first. Then, on that introductory correspondence (which again should be direct and not public), give a basic overview of your skills or experience or point to a link that describes your company). As for your idea, my apologies, but there's no way for me to respond to it. It's just not the right forum for that! Sorry, but again, thanks for watching!
if you dont even know the difference between they're and their what makes you think someone will read you story and take it seriously?
@@kingkylie9655 Oh oops! Did I mis-use 'they're' and 'their'? Hmmm. Where did I mis-use it? And BTW - it's 'don't' and 'read YOUR story.' Haha.
Hi I'm Seth and I'm making a cartoon called xenomon or something.
Is there someone I can go to to get my bible approved?
Hey there and thanks for watching! Every buyer has different needs, so I'd say it's hard to say that your bible is 'approved.' Also, it's difficult to just ask people to read and give you feedback if you're not already inside of the industry and have strong contacts. But, if you're interested in a consultation, I have a rate that I use for reviewing show bibles, giving notes, and helping newer creators get started. Just let me know if you're interested!
Would it be worthwhile to create a pitch bible for an idea that someone young creates that probably won't be able to be seen for a while?
Thanks for watching and good question! Actually, I think you should do it, but not for sales. If the person is young and new to writing, creating a bible is a way to organize thoughts. It can be used as a reference point as you write so you never forget the 'big ideas' that got you so excited in the first place. Plus, it also lets you see the project as a whole before you get into the details of writing the actual story.
Just recorded 10 takes of my pitch and gave up. I think it’s too late, and I’m hungry. I’ll try again tomorrow. GRrrr
I’ve had the best rants in front friends and family. I just can’t channel it for this.
It can be tough! Hang in there. I hope you get a better take once you get some rest!
Hey question for ya I'm totally ok with you saying no; is there anyway I could just send you what I've done in terms of my bible and let me know of hey you're going in the right direction or No no no don't do this. I'm a voice actor and writer so the art work isn't done and right now I've been setting up the text around the images I have in mind. Again, totally ok if the answer is no I just figured the more opinions I get the better.
Hey there and thanks for watching and apologies for my late reply. Anyway, unfortunately this is a slippery slope. There's no quick way to tell you you're going in the right direction or not without a deeper dive into who you are, your talents, your goals, etc. So, unless it's a full consultation, I don't do 'will you just take a look at this' kind of work! My sincere apologies! But, if you'd like do a professional consult, I can be reached via LinkedIN to discuss!
Do you have to be 18 to make A cartoon? Or could you be young?
Anyone can make a cartoon! Axe Cop was invented by a little kid!
I love slugterra!!! no Way
why r their 6 likes wtf
I like waffles