Thai independent filmmaker Itt Patiparn Boontarig, director of Solids by the Seashore, has joined VIPA Pitching Project 2026 as a pitching mentor, sharing his experience and approach to developing and presenting film projects.
During the programme, Itt encouraged participants to look beyond pitching as simply a way of explaining what their project is about. Instead, he emphasised that effective pitching is about building trust and convincing the listener that the filmmaker is the right person to tell the story.
“Pitching is about selling belief. Success comes from combining a good story with credibility. We should always remember that the person listening to us is simply another human being.”
Itt highlighted that a strong project alone may not be enough if the audience does not believe the filmmaker can bring it to completion. At the same time, experience and credentials cannot compensate for a project that lacks a compelling story.
He also encouraged participants to approach pitching as a form of human communication rather than simply presenting to judges, funders, or producers. A successful pitch should be clear, concise, and attentive to the person listening—helping them understand, connect with, and ultimately believe in the project.
