BEN ROTTERMAN, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER,
DOCS AND DEVELOPMENT

WHAT HE’S LOOKING FOR:
The audience for these CTVglobemedia-owned channels is evenly split between male and female aged 12-34. Since both channels target young demos, youth-driven, aspirational programming connects best.

While the main focus for factual is on docudrama series commissions, one-off specials can work if they are in line with the youthful, optimistic tone. Rotterman says cynical or sarcastic programming doesn’t work.

Of course, given the music focus of both channels, music-related content is key.

WHAT’S WORKING:
This broadcast year MTV commissioned two doc series: docudrama Peak Season followed a group of young people working the slopes in Whistler, British Columbia and Over the Bolts documented Canada’s national snowboarding team as they trained for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

Meanwhile, MuchMusic has commissioned the new Banger Films doc series Metal Evolution.

HOW TO PITCH:
Email is the best way to communicate, and while tape would be beneficial, it’s not required. A one-page description of the project will suffice for both channels. Pitches can be sent to Rotterman at ben.rotterman@ctv.ca.

From realscreen magazine.