Best Practices & Common Missteps for Pitch Deck Copy
Introduction
When it comes to selling your film or television project, a pitch deck is one of the most powerful tools you can have. But too many writers and filmmakers confuse summarizing their script with pitching their project. Effective pitch deck copy doesn’t just explain what happens — it makes readers feel like they’re already in your world and leaves them wanting more.
In this post, I break down the the best practices and common missteps of writing pitch deck copy.
Best Practices of Pitch Deck Copy
1️⃣ Do Sell the Experience, Not the Plot
Your deck should make people excited to read your script or take a meeting — not feel like they already know everything that happens.
2️⃣ Do Focus on Tone and Feel
Describe how it feels to watch your project. Is it haunting? Hilarious? Visceral? Lead with mood and atmosphere in your tone section.
3️⃣ Do Keep It Tight and Visual
Most buyers and reps skim. Use concise, evocative language and short paragraphs. Paint pictures with words, not dissertations.
4️⃣ Do Highlight What Makes It Timely
Explain why this story matters right now. Connect it to cultural conversations, audience appetites, or gaps in the market.
5️⃣ Do Tailor Your Character Descriptions
Describe who they are emotionally, physically, and socially — not just what happens to them. Make them memorable and castable.
Common Missteps of Pitch Deck Copy
1️⃣ Don’t Summarize the Script Beat-by-Beat
Your pitch deck is not a CliffsNotes. If your synopsis feels like a scene-by-scene breakdown, pull back.
2️⃣ Don’t Include Every Minor Location
Only highlight locations essential to understanding the world or mechanics of your story. Set dec ideas belong later in pre-production.
3️⃣ Don’t Overuse Clichés or Generic Themes
If your theme is “love conquers all,” dig deeper. Themes should be visually rich and specific to your project’s identity.
4️⃣ Don’t Treat the Director’s Statement or Why Now as Personal Essays
It’s not about why you love the script. It’s about why you’re the only one who can fully realize its potential, and why the industry needs it today.
5️⃣ Don’t Forget — This is a Sales Tool
A pitch deck is a marketing asset. It should intrigue, sell, and secure the next conversation.
Final Thoughts
A great pitch deck can be the difference between a project getting passed over or landing a coveted meeting. Focus on selling the experience of your story, not over-explaining your plot. Follow these do’s and don’ts and your deck will stand out for the right reasons.
Ready to Jump In?
Ready to turn your script into a professional, market-ready pitch deck? I specialize in crafting visually driven, emotionally charged pitch decks that sell.
Already a client or ready to book? Start by completing your guided Pitch Deck Copy Form — (note: no submissions are reviewed without a deposit).
