Getting your foot in the door without an agent can feel like a dead end. It isn’t. Many people have pitched their way into the industry on their own. If you have a solid project and you’re willing to do the work, you can get noticed.
This guide walks you through how to do that. No shortcuts. Just a straightforward approach.
Know What You’re Offering
Before you contact anyone, get your project in shape. People expect a clear pitch. You need a logline, a one-page summary, and a completed script or sample. A pitch deck helps but isn’t always required.
Make sure your files are easy to read. Use standard formatting. If it looks hard to understand, most people won’t bother.
Choose Who You Contact
Don’t send your pitch to everyone. It wastes time and looks unprofessional.
Look for companies and producers who work in your genre. If you’ve written a crime drama, send it to people who have produced similar work. Read what they’ve made. Learn what they’re looking for. It makes a difference.
Find a name when possible. Generic email addresses get less attention.
Keep Your Email Simple
You don’t need to overthink it. Be polite. Be clear. Don’t explain your life story.
Here’s a basic structure:
Subject: Screenplay – [Title]
Hi [Name],
I’m a writer based in [City]. I’ve just finished a screenplay titled [Title]. It’s a [genre] about [short idea]. If you’re open to reviewing it, I’d be glad to send over the script and a short deck.
Thanks for your time,
[Your Name]
IMPORTANT: Never attach anything unless they ask. Always offer first.
Know When to Send It
Avoid major holidays and festival weeks. Don’t pitch during times when inboxes are full. Early fall and spring tend to be more open. If someone doesn’t respond, you can follow up once after a week or two. After that, move on.
Keep track of where you’ve sent your work. It helps avoid mistakes.
Keep a Simple Website
Have a clean page where people can read more about you. Add your bio, a sample or two, and your contact information. Don’t overdo it. People don’t need flashy design. They need to find what they’re looking for.
Need Help With Your Script?
Not everyone has a script ready. Some people only have the story. If you’ve got the concept but need help turning it into a full screenplay, we do that.
We work with writers and storytellers to turn raw material into finished scripts. That includes:
- Writing or rewriting your screenplay
- Preparing a pitch deck
- Coaching you through the pitching process
We don’t promise magic. But we do the work properly. Talk to us if you want help getting your project pitch-ready!
Pitching without representation is hard, but it’s not impossible. Start with the basics. Respect people’s time. Stay organized. Keep writing.
If your story is worth telling, someone will want to hear it.