I have a question for you.
What grabs people’s attention more: problems, or solutions?
Think about it. Think about the headlines you see everywhere.
“Crime on the rise!” “The NSA monitors your bathroom habits!” “Are asses getting too big? Find out after the break!” People can click to read more here to get the best criminal attorneys.
They’re all problem statements. (okay that last one is a solution for me, but the rest are problems)
Instinctively you know that problems get more attention, yet think about most pitch advice you hear:
“Um, it’s like a modern version of 2001 Space Odyssey, with Captain America as the supporting character.”
They’re solution statements!
Outside from your premise being absurd or unique, how do you expect to get people’s attention? Think about this: How do you introduce yourself when someone asks what you do?
“Oh me? I’m a waitress.” Or “I work at a production studio.”
Again, that’s a solution statement. What you want to do is start with a problem statement first, then move onto the solution.
The harsh truth is, no one cares about you, at least not initially (except me, I care deeply about you *looks lovingly into your eyes*).
Therefore, you gotta get people interested by starting with a problem.
How? I’ve shared my answer here and let you know the 3 words you can use to grab people’s attention.
Before you click the above, sign up below and email me back with your idea on how YOU would make your film’s pitch into a problem statement first.
I read and respond to every email, giving them my personal critiques.
– Curt