Developing original animation content is time-consuming and requires a huge amount of capital. A quality project proposal is the primary factor in attracting the interest of potential readers, producers, or investors. I have compiled my personal experience of preparing project proposals over the years below in the hope that it will be helpful to students who are interested in developing original animation content in the future.

A good original animation content proposal, whether it is a short film, a video, or a feature film, comprises the following main components:

1. An engaging story concept

2. Heart-wrenching character portrayals

3. A unique worldview

4. A complete story synopsis

5. A discernible visual style

6. Effective marketing

The details are described as follows:

 1. An engaging story concept: In one page, summarize your work and uniqueness in a concise and compelling synopsis that conveys the essence of the story so that it captures the attention of potential readers, producers, or investors. The structure should contain the following elements:

a. The main characters and their situations: A short introduction to the main characters and their situations or predicaments. It should establish the tone of the story and make us care about the main characters.

b. The antagonists and their conflicts: Introduce the antagonists of the story, the main conflicts, or obstacles that the main characters must overcome and face. It should create tension and make the audience eager to know how the protagonist will resolve the conflict.

c. Risk: Establish what is at stake for the main characters if they fail to overcome the conflict. This creates a sense of urgency and keeps the audience focused on the outcome.

The following is an example that fits this structure:

“When a struggling single mother discovers that she has a rare disease that will kill her within six months, she must work with a rogue scientist to steal a cure from a corrupt pharmaceutical company before time runs out.”

This story introduces the main character (a struggling single mother), the antagonist (a corrupt pharmaceutical company), and the conflict (the theft of the cure). It also establishes the stakes (death in six months if the cure is not obtained), creates a sense of urgency, and pushes the audience towards caring about the outcome.

 2. Heart-wrenching character portrayals: Next, spend some time describing your main characters. Include a detailed description of their personalities, characteristics, and motivations. Consider creating character sheets with illustrations and backstories to bring the characters to life. Here are a few key elements that a compelling protagonist needs to possess:

a. Goals/Desires: The protagonist should have clear goals that drive their actions and decisions throughout the story. These goals should be specific and attainable, and related to the overall theme of the story.

b. Flaws: No one is perfect, and your protagonist should be no exception. Give your protagonist some flaws to make them relatable and authentic. Flaws can also create tension and conflict in the story.

c. Motivation: What drives your protagonist to pursue their goals? Understanding their motivations will help you develop a more nuanced and complex character.

d. Growth/Character Arc: A compelling protagonist should experience some kind of personal growth or change throughout the story. This can be a positive change, such as overcoming a deficiency or achieving a goal, or a negative change, such as a moral decline.

e. Backstory: A character’s backstory can help explain their motivations, goals, and flaws. Developing a rich and complex backstory can make your protagonist feel more realistic and three-dimensional.

7. Team introductions and production details: Finally, list clearly all production details such as the format, target audience and budget, and include a brief biography of your creative team, such as the writer, director, and animation director, etc.