I just received my first pitch feedback after a month. In her short paragraph, the expert said: " the budget on this would be astronomical, so I'm afraid I am going to have to pass at this time." A few months ago, I had a well known producer and his company do a budget analysis for implementing this script. The detailed spread sheet with 7% contingency and no rebates came to $369,985. So my question is:
Is $370K astronomical or do we take these expert's opinions "with a grain of salt"?
Thanks Dan. It was a written pitch. I felt the same way.
Thomas: Take it with a grain. One monkey don't make the show happen. A good rule of thumb is to use your spec script as a calling card to build some relationships. And, really examine who your pitching to when you pay good money for it. Do your research on what they've made and are looking for. Best of luck!
Hi David/Dan: The pitch starts with the protagonist landed on shore of planet, the story basically takes place in two locations, a sugar plantation and in a couple of city buildings, clearly negotiable. I'm beginning to agree with David. For $30 you get seven check boxes and a short paragraph, but the real hope is for the possibility of further interest.
David, you're so right. I've received three feedbacks on the same pitch. Out of the 21 boxes the experts checked (3 reviews x 7 categories), only two boxes were checked twice. Basically three different columns were checked. It's one thing to say everyone has a different opinion, but if you're looking for guidance or some standard for pitching this obviously isn't the place.
Basically, any PA on the set can tell if it's a big budget production or not.
David - I assume you're not a fan.