Expert: Russell Calabrese - 7/13/2008

Question
What is the process of pitching my cartoon script to a network?  Contact marketing? Do I need a lawyer so early in the process? Help!!!

Answer
Hi Lora,

If you're writing a script for an existing show you need an agent.
If you're pitching you're own idea for a show you can just pitch to the developement person at the network who is taking pitches. Make sure if it's your own original material, have it copyrighted.

Here's the home page for the Copyright Office:
http://www.copyright.gov/

This site is very helpful and has lots of FAQs.

I've answered this a few different ways to a few other people. Please look thru some of my past answers to this kind of question.

I hope this helps.

Russell

See below for example of similar previously answered question.

Example:

Subject:   Animation Agents
Question:   I was wondering if you had any suggestions on some of the best agencies(representation wise)for people wanting to break into the animation field. A firm or agent that has proven results when it comes to it's clients. I'm an artist and writer with a series I'd like to pitch. Been searching the Google sites but haven't really found any helpful info. Any help you could give would be greatly appreciated.

Answer:   Hello J.L.

You can just make an appointment, go yourself and pitch your idea. You'll probably need an entertainment lawyer to work out a deal if they want to option it. I don't have an agent. It's not worth giving someone 10-20% for something you can do yourself. Animation is a bit less snooty when it comes to pitching ideas. Just make sure you have copyrighted your script or bible so "they" can't steal it. Remember... You can't copyright an idea. Check out the copyright and trademark sites below for more info:

http://www.copyright.gov/
http://www.uspto.gov/

Hope this helps.

®©
Russell