Executive

Definition

In the context of pitching story ideas, an executive refers to a high-ranking individual in a production company or network who is responsible for making decisions regarding the development, financing, and production of television content. Executives play a critical role in the creative process as they evaluate pitches, provide feedback, and ultimately decide which projects will receive funding and support for development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Executives are often former writers, producers, or directors, bringing valuable industry experience to their decision-making roles.
2. The role of an executive can vary significantly depending on the type of network or studio, influencing how pitches are evaluated.
3. Building a positive relationship with executives can greatly increase a writer's chances of getting their ideas greenlit.
4. Executives typically look for unique concepts that have commercial potential and align with current trends in television.
5. The feedback provided by executives during pitch meetings can be crucial in shaping the final direction of a project before it goes into production.

Review Questions

• How do executives influence the decision-making process when it comes to selecting story ideas for development?
  • Executives hold significant power in determining which story ideas get developed into television shows. They assess pitches based on various factors including originality, market trends, and audience appeal. Their feedback can lead to modifications in the concept, helping align it with network goals or viewer interests, ultimately shaping which projects receive funding and resources.
• In what ways can writers effectively communicate their vision for a story idea to executives during a pitch meeting?
  • Writers can effectively communicate their vision by being clear and concise about the main concept and its unique elements. Using visual aids such as mood boards or character sketches can help bring the idea to life. Additionally, understanding the executive's previous interests or successful projects can allow writers to tailor their pitch, making it more relatable and appealing based on what the executive is looking for in new content.
• Evaluate the impact that an executive's background can have on their decision-making process regarding story pitches and how that shapes television content.
  • An executive's background can greatly influence their perspective on story pitches, as their previous experiences may lead them to favor certain genres or themes. For example, an executive with a strong background in comedy might prioritize humorous pitches over dramas. This bias can shape television content significantly because it affects which stories get funded and produced, ultimately influencing what audiences see on screen and how diverse or innovative the programming becomes. Thus, the interplay between an executive’s experience and the broader industry trends plays a crucial role in defining television narratives.

Related terms

Showrunner: The person responsible for the overall creative direction of a television show, often serving as the head writer and producer.

Network: A company that distributes television content and is responsible for broadcasting shows to the audience, often making decisions about which shows to air.

Development: The process of turning an idea into a scripted television series, involving writing scripts, creating budgets, and pitching to networks or studios.