When you’re trying to pitch to streamers, the process of selling a film or series directly to platforms like Netflix, Amazon, or Hulu for exclusive distribution. Also known as streaming acquisition, it’s not about flashy trailers or big names—it’s about proving your project solves a problem they already have: filling their library with content that keeps people watching. Most filmmakers think they need a star or a million-dollar budget, but the truth is streamers care more about completion rates, audience retention, and how well your story fits into their existing lineup.
What they’re really buying isn’t just a movie—it’s streaming originals, exclusive content designed to drive subscriptions and reduce churn. Also known as platform-specific productions, these are the shows and films that make you open the app every week. That’s why a microbudget indie film with a cult following can beat a $50M studio flick in a pitch meeting. Streamers look at data: who watched it all the way through? Where did they watch it? Did they tell friends? If your film has strong global engagement, especially in markets they’re trying to grow, you’ve got leverage. And if your project has sequel potential or fits a trending genre—like true crime documentaries or character-driven dramas—you’re already ahead.
It’s not just about the script. It’s about film financing, how you structure your budget, who’s invested, and whether you’ve secured key rights before approaching buyers. Also known as pre-sales, this shows streamers you’ve done the hard work and aren’t asking them to fix broken pieces. They don’t want to spend months untangling legal issues or re-editing a film that’s missing key scenes. They want something ready to launch. That means having clear distribution rights, talent attachments, and even a rough cut. A director with a track record—even if it’s just a few festival wins—can make all the difference. And if you’ve already screened at Sundance or Toronto, that’s not just prestige—it’s social proof.
Don’t assume you need a sales agent to get in the door. Many streamers now accept direct pitches from filmmakers, especially if you’ve built an audience through email lists, social media, or self-distribution. They’re tired of middlemen taking cuts and slowing things down. If you’ve got 10,000 people on your email list who’ve already watched your trailer, that’s more valuable than a fancy deck.
When you pitch, lead with data, not emotion. Show them where your audience lives, how long they stay engaged, and what similar titles performed on their platform. Don’t say "this is the next Stranger Things." Say "this is the next The Queen’s Gambit—same tone, same niche, same binge pattern." Streamers aren’t looking for the next Oscar winner. They’re looking for the next thing people can’t stop watching.
Below, you’ll find real examples of how filmmakers cracked the code—some with zero budget, others with just a strong concept and the right connections. You’ll see how distribution deals are made, what gets greenlit, and what gets tossed aside—even if it’s beautifully shot. This isn’t theory. It’s what’s working right now, on Netflix, Max, Amazon, and beyond.
Learn how to pitch independent films to streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Apple TV+. Discover what buyers really want, how to structure your pitch, and how to avoid common mistakes that kill distribution deals.