John Stimpson of H9 Films discusses how to craft irresistible pitches, build a standout portfolio and selling your holiday script to producers in the competitive Christmas movie market.
Are you ready to sell your holiday script? In this episode, we’ll walk you through five actionable steps to help you pitch your Christmas screenplay with confidence. Learn how to create a diverse portfolio of unique ideas, stay informed about market trends, and break genre conventions with fresh perspectives. We’ll also share tips for navigating rejection, following up with producers, and delivering clear, compelling pitches. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or new to holiday storytelling, these steps will help you make your scripts market-ready and irresistible to producers.
ACTION CHECKLIST I have 5 items for your action checklist from my interview with John regarding pitching your holiday script.
Build a Diverse Portfolio of Ideas: Selling Your Holiday Script
Create multiple unique and festive screenplay concepts, each with a compelling twist. Producers are always looking for fresh takes, so show your range and creativity.
Understand Market Demands: Selling Your Holiday Script
Stay informed about the increasing demand for Christmas content, especially on streaming platforms and cable networks. Tailor your pitch to highlight how your story meets that platform’s current audience preferences.
Break the Rules: Selling Your Holiday Script
Don’t be afraid to challenge genre conventions. A unique angle or unexpected element can make your script stand out in a saturated market.
Be Pleasantly Persistent: Selling Your Holiday Script
Follow up with producers consistently but respectfully. It often takes multiple attempts to get noticed and stay on their radar.
Pitch with Confidence: Selling Your Holiday Script
Present your ideas enthusiastically, emphasizing their marketability and why they align with the producer’s goals. Rejection is part of the process—treat it as a learning opportunity.
