Write a detailed treatment and/or script. A treatment is an elongated summary -- ranging 1 to 20 pages -- that encapsulates the concept of the film. Treatments give a detailed overview of all the major plot points and characters and take less time to read than an actual script. Create the script and fine-tune it into a polished draft. Bring both the treatment and script into meetings. The treatment and script represent the hard content behind your ideas and vision.
Build a connection with your listener. Take time to establish an initial relationship with the person -- or people -- to whom you are pitching. Discuss the weather or a recent sports event. Generate a few laughs by recalling a funny story that happened to you. Building connections disarms both you and the listener and relaxes everyone. This is a critical first step to successful pitching.
Create a visual image with your language. Take your listener on a journey with the pitch. Use bold and enthralling language that will capture the imagination of your listener. Refer to all major plot points -- in sequential order -- and use the names of the three or four main characters when pitching. Keep the image you create as easy to follow and uncomplicated as possible. A good pitch should take a maximum of three minutes from start to finish.
Speak clearly and at an even tempo. Stay energetic in your pitch, but avoid getting so excited that you mumble or gloss over important plot points. Save script details for only climactic moments in your pitch to ensure your image remains uncluttered and your delivery is solid. Ask questions -- "Would you like me to clarify that point?" for instance -- if your listener appears lost or confused.
Conclude the meeting positively. Look your listener in the eye when you shake his hand and smile wide. Thank him for his time and offer to leave your treatment and script with him for his convenience. End the conversation by referring to the rapport you mentioned at the start -- the funny story or discussion about a recent current event, for example -- to round out your discussion and conclude on a personal level.