Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I have an idea for a Reality TV Program.  This is not my line of business at all.  I have no connections to the entertainment industry but I do know some powerful business people who can get me to them.   My question is should I get the reality TV program copy written or just present the concept to the networks with a confidentially agreement? 

I am a new member and I have been reading some of the previous topics. I really enjoyed the collaboration.  This is a good site.  I thank you in advance for your response.

 

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Selina R. Ebegbuzie Credit Manager

Awele,

A copyright will not protect the idea, only the written copy of the work itself (although you should copyright your pilot or treatment anyway).  When pitching an idea, you should first boil it down to a one liner (a "log line") that describes the concept.  Late summer and early fall are usually the best times to pitch, as well.

Regarding a confidentiality agreement, you may find that it`s very hard to find any execs willing to sign one from a newcomer.  If you get that far, be happy you`ve done so, and keep a log of everyone you`ve talked to and shown the treatment/pilot to. 

Lastly, you probably won`t even get a meeting without an agent or entertainment attorney accompanying you.  That`s just the way the business works.  I`ve had numerous folks come to me after trying to pitch a network and been told "great idea, now come back with an agent or attorney so we can talk." 


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Pepper Law Group, LLC
21 E. High Street, Suite D
Somerville, NJ 08876
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Now available on DVD!
The Legal Considerations of Starting an Online Business

I worked in Hollywood for many years and I can tell you that the best way
to get to the network execs is to know someone who knows them. An
attorney is important to seal the deal and show you are serious. An agent
just takes some of your money and may or may not be worth it. Of the
few show creators I know, none of them had agents but they were all
somehow connected to someone important.

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Steve Lowtwa

Pepperlegal,

Thank you so much for your input I will keep that in mind.  I have already started interviewing agents and attorneys for this project.  So, hopefully I can get this going. Thanks again.

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Selina R. Ebegbuzie Credit Manager

Camp Steve,

Yes, I do believe you must know someone to get in the door.  Thankfully, I do know a few people that can get me in the door.  They actually work within the networks.  Wish me luck. Thanks for your input.

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Selina R. Ebegbuzie Credit Manager