Hi all, just curious if anyone has any in-the-room advice for pitching a very specific genre-- the dreaded historic drama. I usually write drama features (and not historic ones) but was recently hired to write a limited series based on a hundred-year-old diary. I ended up optioning the project myself to shop around town as I have more industry contacts than the person who hired me, but I have yet to pitch this particular genre (or a TV project for that matter, though I did watch and loved the Stage 32 "How to Pitch to Netflix" webinar and, having been in dozens of film pitch meetings already, feel ready-to-go on that front-- though I'm happy to hear any TV selling advice as well if you care to share).
I have just left a big rep and will be seeking a new one(s), but once representation is re-secured and I get in the room, any advice or warnings for pitching a period piece/historic drama series? Things that should be mentioned/not mentioned, etc? Happy to hear any advice as this feels a very niche genre.
Thank you!
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As explained to me, do not say, "This is a period piece," or "... historical piece ..." --- because they'll instantly think drastic increase in budget due to costumes and set builds. Just pitch it, and let them figure it out for themselves as it helps to soften things ...
Thanks. Good advice indeed-- I think once I realized the project's historical nature was one of the major problems with shopping it around, I began leading with that, lol (in queries at least-- still prepping for actual pitches).
Its good to point out how it is relevant to audiences now, rather than being a special interest piece. Chernobyl was a show that abslutly nailed this by emphasizing the parallels in how politicians responded and altered the facts of that situation, to what was becoming known as the "post truth" era of politics that started around the time of the show's release.
Hi Michael, I agree with Ewan as I have two scripts based on true different stories from history and so I have experience pitching that genre. I have had script consults with many great Stage 32 execs, and I learned that the key is to do what you have been successfully doing with non=historical dramas--it is all about the character's story and emotional journey that is relatable to people today, challenges they face that audiences today face, and watching how they overcome them and grow and change, no matter what time period it is set. Your project sounds great. You are in the right place at Stage 32 to get guidance from the great execs so find one that fits your genre and niche and let that person give you notes and guidance! BTW, Ewan, you are one of them!! Thank you for the consult we had a while back--very helpful.