How to Sell a Story to Netflix: A Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding the Netflix Storytelling Process
Before you can sell a story to Netflix, you need to understand the company’s unique approach to storytelling and content acquisition. Netflix is a studio that produces and distributes original content, and its goal is to create shows that resonate with audiences worldwide. To succeed, writers and producers must adapt their stories to fit Netflix’s specific needs and format. This article will walk you through the steps to sell a story to Netflix.
Pre-Sales Preparation
Before pitching your story to Netflix, it’s essential to prepare your pitch package. This should include:
- A concise and compelling pitch document
- A supporting script document (10-20 pages)
- A treatment document (10-20 pages)
- A pitch video (5-10 minutes)
- A proposal document (1-2 pages)
The Pitch Process
When pitching your story to Netflix, you’ll typically be invited to meet with a producer or executive. Here’s what to expect:
- Introduction and Brief: The producer or executive will introduce themselves and provide a brief overview of the project. This is an opportunity to grab their attention and set the tone for the rest of the conversation.
- Story Overview: The producer or executive will provide a detailed overview of the story, including its genre, tone, and target audience.
- Why Netflix?: The producer or executive will explain why they think Netflix is the perfect fit for your story. This includes highlighting any notable similarities between the story and the Netflix format.
- Tone and Consistency: The producer or executive will discuss the tone and consistency of the story, ensuring that it aligns with Netflix’s style guide.
- Visuals and Audio: The producer or executive will discuss the importance of visuals and audio in bringing the story to life.
Understanding Netflix’s Content Acquisition Process
To understand how Netflix acquires content, review the following table:
| Content Acquisition Criteria | Netflix’s Content Acquisition Criteria |
|---|---|
| Genre: Must have broad appeal | Mostly genre-specific |
| Tone: Can appeal to a wide range of audiences | Generally more emotional or complex |
| Target Audience: Wider appeal | Niche audience |
| Format: Must be relatively short | Longer formats, such as TV shows |
| Originality: Marketable and unique | Generally more well-known titles |
Picking the Right Team
To sell your story to Netflix, you’ll need to assemble a team that includes:
- Producer: The lead producer responsible for acquiring and producing content for Netflix.
- Executive Producer: The second-in-command, responsible for overseeing the project’s development and production.
- Writer/Showrunner: The person responsible for writing the script and adapting the story for Netflix.
When selecting your team, look for individuals with:
- Industry experience: A proven track record of success in the content acquisition process.
- Networking: A strong network of contacts and connections within the industry.
- Creative expertise: A deep understanding of the story’s genre, tone, and target audience.
Pitching Your Story
With your team in place, it’s time to pitch your story. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Script Research: Familiarize yourself with the story’s basics: Understand the genre, tone, and target audience.
- Story Revisions: Be prepared to revise your story: Make sure it meets Netflix’s content acquisition criteria.
- Visuals and Audio: Ensure your visuals and audio meet Netflix’s standards: Ensure that they are well-produced, consistent, and appealing.
- Pitches and Meetings: Deliver a strong pitch: Keep the meeting concise, engaging, and effective.
The Post-Pitch Process
After meeting with Netflix, it’s essential to follow up and ensure the project moves forward. This may involve:
- Response and Follow-up: Get a positive response and follow up: Ensure that the producer or executive has expressed interest in your story.
- Submission to Studio: Submit your story to the production studio: Provide all necessary documentation, including the pitch package and supporting materials.
- Development and Production: Work with the production studio to develop and produce the content: Ensure that your story meets Netflix’s standards and content acquisition criteria.
Conclusion
Selling a story to Netflix requires careful preparation, a strong team, and a well-researched pitch package. By understanding Netflix’s unique approach to storytelling and content acquisition, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to be prepared to adapt your story to fit Netflix’s specific needs and format, and to follow up and ensure the project moves forward. With the right team, pitch package, and approach, you can bring your story to life on Netflix.