Pitch Like Hollywood audiobook cover - What You Can Learn from the High-Stakes Film Industry

Pitch Like Hollywood

What You Can Learn from the High-Stakes Film Industry

Peter Desberg and Jeffrey Davis

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Communication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentMarketing & Sales

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Pitch Like Hollywood
Foundation of Pitching+
Core Pitch Structure+
Psychology of Persuasion+
Managing Stage Fright+
Embracing Unpredictability+

Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 7
Why do the authors argue that the Hollywood pitch technique is highly effective across different industries?
  • A. It relies heavily on data-driven presentations to prove market viability.
  • B. It utilizes storytelling, which research shows is more persuasive than fact-based presentations.
  • C. It guarantees funding by leveraging the fame and charisma of Hollywood actors.
  • D. It skips the traditional business plan in favor of a short, entertaining script.
Question 2 of 7
What is the primary function of a 'logline' in a pitch?
  • A. To provide a detailed breakdown of the financial investment required.
  • B. To act as the shortest, punchiest phrase that serves as the most memorable part of the pitch.
  • C. To resolve the main conflict and present the final data to the investors.
  • D. To introduce the essence of the project, including characters and conflict, without giving away the ending.
Question 3 of 7
In the three-act structure of a pitch, what is typically accomplished during Act Two?
  • A. The main characters and the initial conflict are introduced to the audience.
  • B. The final resolution is presented along with data showing market demand.
  • C. The conflict escalates, failed attempts to solve it are presented, and the pain points of the status quo are broken down.
  • D. The presenter's credentials and professional background are formally listed.
Question 4 of 7
How do the authors recommend presenting your credentials during a pitch?
  • A. List them immediately at the start so the audience knows you are highly qualified.
  • B. Provide them in a printed handout only after the pitch is completely finished.
  • C. Work them into the presentation naturally, such as through a self-deprecating joke.
  • D. Avoid mentioning them entirely, as listing credentials can make you appear arrogant.
Question 5 of 7
According to the text, how does an audience react when they perceive a presenter as highly likable?
  • A. They are more likely to use their intuition when listening, making them easier to persuade.
  • B. They tend to replace their intuition with deeper, critical consideration of the facts.
  • C. They expect a higher level of financial return on their investment.
  • D. They will overlook a lack of preparation or a poorly structured three-act story.
Question 6 of 7
What specific journaling exercise do the authors suggest to help manage stage fright before a pitch?
  • A. Writing down a script of the pitch and memorizing it word-for-word.
  • B. Listing all the potential financial benefits to boost your confidence.
  • C. Writing down all the things that could go wrong to subconsciously prepare your brain for negative reactions.
  • D. Documenting the credentials of the investors to understand their backgrounds better.
Question 7 of 7
Besides reducing anxiety symptoms, what is a key benefit of meditation for someone giving a pitch?
  • A. It helps the presenter memorize their three-act structure more efficiently.
  • B. It trains the brain to quickly recover from unexpected distractions.
  • C. It eliminates the need for extensive audience research.
  • D. It guarantees that the audience will perceive the presenter as highly charismatic.

Pitch Like Hollywood — Full Chapter Overview

Pitch Like Hollywood Summary & Overview

Pitch Like Hollywood (2022) uncovers the secret ingredients behind the successful techniques used to pitch films and TV shows in Hollywood. Luckily, it doesn’t matter what industry you work in – the principles behind the Hollywood pitch can be universally applied. By harnessing the power of storytelling and the psychology of persuasion, you can pitch literally anything to anyone.

Who Should Listen to Pitch Like Hollywood?

  • Founders looking to up their pitching game
  • Film buffs curious as to how things get funded in Hollywood
  • Anyone who suffers from stage fright

About the Author: Peter Desberg and Jeffrey Davis

Peter Desberg is professor emeritus at California State University, as well as being a practicing psychologist. He’s written 23 books over his career, and has provided pitching consultation for corporations like Apple, Toyota, and Boeing.

Jeffrey Davis is a professor of screenwriting at Loyola Marymount University. He’s also a writer and producer, having made advertisements for big names such as Dell, Toyota, and Honda.

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