How to Pitch a Documentary to Netflix Buyers

Written By Timothy Te

Are you a documentary filmmaker with one of the best new documentaries, 2023 that you think would be perfect for the Netflix streaming service? If so, then this blog post is for you! We'll walk you through the process of submitting your documentary to Netflix, including what information you'll need to provide and what buyers are looking for. So here are a few strategies to get your film seen by millions of potential viewers!

Join Film Festivals

Joining film festivals is one of the first things aspiring documentary filmmakers should do. Not only does joining these festivals get your film in front of the creative community, but you'll never know who is watching! It may be passed on to creative executives, talent agencies, and other industry professionals.

We've spoken to many documentary filmmakers and many of them swear that film festivals open doors to a world of opportunity. The creative community is huge and the established members already have that connection to Netflix, so network, network, network.

Know your Audience

When you create a documentary film, understand who your audience will be. If you're planning to make a film that Netflix might purchase, then there are certain criteria to keep in mind. First and foremost, think of what message or story you want to tell. It is also essential to have a good visual appeal; make sure your footage is shot properly by expert cinematographers and edited together with meaning. Talent agencies can also be a good source for voiceovers and other resources that you need.

If you're working with a production company, even better as they may even help you down the line getting that elusive meeting!

Additionally, consider providing some extra bonus content; behind-the-scenes material often captures the attention of buyers, especially when trailers just don't cut it. Overall, focus on making an interesting documentary by keeping its audience at the forefront of your mind throughout production. Netflix may be more likely to pick it up!

Have a Strong Story

Having a strong story is one of the key features of any successful documentary. A good narrative should be evident in all aspects of production, from research and interviewing, to editing and post-production. Having an overarching thematic journey is essential - viewers should experience something powerful and meaningful as they watch your documentary.

You will want to draw their attention right away, so make sure you establish your story in the introduction of your film, while also laying subtle hints throughout the documentary to keep them engaged. Ultimately, having a compelling narrative will ensure that viewers are drawn into the characters' various journeys and are powerfully moved by the end.

Be Prepared to Answer Tough Questions

Having a well-researched and thought-out project is simply not enough to guarantee success when presenting to investors. It is essential that you are confident in your answers should any tough questions arise, ensuring that you have the ability to defend and explain why your project is worth investing in.

Preparation is key for this situation - be sure to spend a good amount of time anticipating the type of questions you may be asked, as well as coming up with powerful arguments that can demonstrate the value of your project. Only by doing so can you hope to gain investor confidence, while at the same time reassuring them as to why your idea has both potential and promise.

Don't give up

It can be disheartening to put in a lot of hard work towards creating something, only to discover that you cannot find anyone who is interested in it. Before forcing yourself to start from scratch, don't give up - what you need may just be a few more pitches away. Keep searching for the right buyer until you find someone with an interest in your project.

Not only does this make better use of the time and resources you have already invested, but it could also yield unexpected results from contacts with similar interests or values. Taking that extra step will help ensure that your hard work pays off!

Do your research before trying to pitch to Netflix.

Netflix does not accept unsolicited submissions. Let me say that again, Netflix does NOT accept unsolicited submissions. Unlike those movies where people just send in their material to random executives, it really doesn't work that way in real life. This is why we circle back to the first we mentioned, and this is to join film festivals.

Even if you don't enter your documentary into the festival, it's a great place to go and meet with the right people. Whether it be a producer, creative executives, a licensed agent, or any other industry executive that already has a relationship with Netflix, getting your foot in the door is the first step to getting your pitch in front of Netflix. It doesn't matter if you have a great script, an original idea, or new content, what's important is getting that first meeting.

Pitching your documentary to Netflix buyers can be a tough process, but it's worth it if you know your audience and have a strong story. Be prepared to answer tough questions and don't give up until you find the right buyer. With these tips, you're sure to get your documentary on Netflix in no time!

And, if all else fails, Netflix isn't the only streaming service out there! Keep persevering and keep pitching! Some notable streaming services that you can apply the tips to: Hulu, Amazon, and even HBO! And don't stop there, look for connections in broadcast tv as well to cover all of your bases.

Want to know What Makes a Good Documentary Film? Click here!

 
Timothy Te
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