Step-by-Step: Building a Transmedia Portfolio Inspired by ‘Traveling to Mars’ and ‘Sweet Paprika’

Hook: Stop Scattering Your IP—Build a Transmedia Portfolio That Gets Read by Agencies Like WME

Pitching agencies and buyers today is a time-and-attention war. You may have brilliant scripts, painted pages, or a viral concept, but if your materials are scattered, under-packaged, or missing legal clarity, they’ll be passed over. In 2026, agencies including WME are actively signing packaged transmedia studios and IP with clear adaptation pathways — just look at the example of The Orangery and its graphic novels Traveling to Mars and Sweet Paprika (Variety, Jan 2026). This guide shows creators exactly how to assemble a story bible, produce high-impact visual samples (like a standout graphic novel sample), and create airtight adaptation plans — with tool-specific setup and submission-ready files geared to attract agencies and buyers.

The 2026 Landscape: Why Agencies Want Packaged Transmedia IP Now

Late-2025 into early-2026 marked a clear industry shift: streaming platforms and talent agencies accelerated deals for IP that arrives pre-packaged for screen, stage, or game. Agencies like WME are signing transmedia studios that already control rights and proven audience traction. At the same time, practical changes influence what buyers expect:

• Streaming platforms prioritize IP that reduces development risk — complete bibles and adaptation outlines shorten the path to greenlight.
• AI-assisted concept art and animatics accelerate visual development, but buyers now expect provenance and rights clarity for AI-generated assets.
• Demand for cross-platform experiences (audio drama tie-ins, AR/VR scenes, serialized graphic novels) means a single-property, multi-format plan is more valuable than ever.

Variety reported in January 2026 that WME signed The Orangery — a sign agencies are hunting packaged transmedia IP like graphic-novel-first studios.

Overview: The Transmedia Portfolio Components Agencies Look For

Structure your portfolio into five tight, easy-to-review components. Each must be polished, file-ready, and legally clear:

1. Executive one-pager (logline + hooks + audience metrics)
2. Story bible (world, arcs, tone, format roadmaps)
3. Graphic novel sample (8–12 pages plus cover and character sheets)
4. Adaptation plan (film/TV/game/podcast/AR outlines and episode/treatment samples)
5. Rights and legal package (chain of title, copyright registrations, contracts, splits)

Step 1 — Build a Story Bible That Front-Loads What Matters

Your story bible is the single most read document by development execs. Make the first 2–4 pages answer the “can we sell this?” questions immediately.

Must-have front matter (first 2–4 pages)

• Logline — one sentence that sells concept and stakes.
• One-paragraph overview — the hook, tone, and genre references (think: “Black Mirror meets Blade Runner in space” style analogs).
• Audience & market positioning — target demo, comparable titles, and why this property is timely in 2026.
• Key visuals — a single-page mood board or color script to set expectations.

Core bible sections (expand on these clearly)

• World rules: technology, politics, timeline, and sensory details that matter on-screen.
• Character bible: short bios, arcs, emotional beats, and visual thumbnails for main cast.
• Season/series or issue roadmap: 6–12 beats or issue summaries with stakes and payoffs.
• Episode or issue outlines: at least 3 sample outlines (pilot + two follow-ups).
• Transmedia hooks: specific ideas for podcast episodes, AR experiences, merch, or game mechanics.
• Production notes: budget level assumptions, tone references, and suggested directors/EPs.

Tool-specific setup: Create the bible in Figma or InDesign

For a polished, production-ready bible use either Adobe InDesign (for print/PDF fidelity) or Figma (for rapid web export and collaborative comments). Here are specific settings:

• InDesign: Document size 8.5 x 11 in, 0.125 in bleed, CMYK for print, export as PDF/X-1a:2001 for press and PDF/A for archiving.
• Figma: Use 12pt grid, export pages as high-quality PDFs; host a single web-view link with a password for controlled agency access.
• Fonts: Embed or outline fonts. If using custom type, convert to outlines before export to avoid rendering issues.

Step 2 — Produce a Graphic Novel Sample That Proves Tone & Readability

Agencies want to see a readable sequence that demonstrates story sense, pacing, and visual language — not a scattershot gallery. Target an 8–12 page sequence with a cover and character sheets.

Sequence checklist

• Opening hook (first page must compel reading).
• One clear mini-arc per sample (setup, complication, partial payoff).
• Character beat that reveals core conflict and empathy.
• Clear lettering and panel rhythm — readable on-screen (test at 1080px width).

Tool setups for art and lettering (2026 options)

• Line art & coloring: Clip Studio Paint, Procreate (iPad), Photoshop, or Krita. Export PNGs at 300 DPI for print, 150–200 DPI for screen PDFs.
• Lettering: Affinity Publisher or Clip Studio’s lettering tools. Export text as vector where possible to maintain clarity.
• AI-assisted concept art: Use tools like Stable Diffusion/Runway or Midjourney for preliminary mood studies, but document prompts and provenance to satisfy rights concerns (see legal section).

File export & packaging for submissions

• Export a print-ready PDF (300 DPI) and a screen-optimized PDF (150–200 DPI, 1080–1920 px width).
• Include a one-page visual pitch (cover + 3 spreads + 2 character sheets) as a single-page JPEG/PNG optimized for email (max 1–2 MB).
• Name files clearly: ProjectTitle_Sample_Pages_01-12.pdf; ProjectTitle_VisualPitch.jpg

Step 3 — Write Adaptation Outlines for Each Major Format

A strong transmedia portfolio shows how the IP becomes film, TV, podcast, game, and experiential content. For each format, provide a concise adaptation plan (1–3 pages) and one detailed sample (pilot script/treatment/quest design).

Adaptation plan template (use for film, TV, podcast, game)

1. Format summary — one-liner: "Feature film — 110 minute sci-fi thriller"
2. Core changes for the medium — what shifts from panels to screen or gameplay?
3. Pilot/first act treatment — 3–5 page scene-by-scene outline.
4. Key casting & creative attachments — dream director, actor types, composers.
5. Budget & production notes — scale: indie, mid, or tentpole; VFX expectations.
6. Monetization and windows — theatrical, SVOD, linear, interactive sales.

Specifics for a TV adaptation (example)

• Episode count: 8–10
• Episode length: 35–55 minutes
• Pilot beats: Establish world by minute 10, inciting incident by minute 20, cliff at end of pilot.
• Visual language: reference three cinematographers or shows for color palette and camera movement.

Step 4 — Assemble a Rights & Legal Package That Agencies Can Trust

Nothing kills interest faster than fuzzy rights. Agencies and buyers want a clean chain of title and clear permission to adapt, license, and monetize.

Essential documents

• Chain of title: show who owns what and how rights were acquired (contracts, assignment letters).
• Copyright registrations: provide registration certificates (US Copyright Office, EU-IPO or national offices where relevant).
• Collaboration agreements: contracts or split sheets for co-creators, artists, writers, and composers.
• Option/previous deals: disclose any existing options or encumbrances and expiration dates.
• AI provenance log: if you used generative tools, include prompts, models, and licensing to demonstrate clear rights.

Practical legal setup tips

• Register copyright early. In the U.S., registration before infringement or at least before filing suit gives statutory remedies.
• Use a written collaboration agreement with clear % splits and reversion clauses.
• If you commissioned art, ensure the contract spells out transfer of rights or a license for adaptations and merchandising.
• Consult entertainment counsel for option agreements; agencies often prefer properties that are either wholly-owned or optioned cleanly to the submitting party.

Step 5 — Visual Pitch & Video Materials: Turn Static Pages into Motion

A short visual pitch (90–120 seconds) is now standard. It proves cinematic intent and shows tone in motion.

Storyboard to animatic workflow (tool-specific)

• Storyboard: Sketch in Procreate or Photoshop at 1920x1080px. Export as PNGs.
• Animatic: Assemble in Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve; add temp score and sound design.
• AI-assisted motion: Use Runway or Adobe After Effects for simple parallax and camera moves, but document sources and licenses.
• Export: H.264 at 1080p, 24 fps, target bitrate 6–10 Mbps for Vimeo; use H.265 for higher compression if host supports it.

Vimeo/hosting settings

• Use Vimeo Pro or Business for private links and password control.
• Add time-limited viewing or download restrictions to protect IP in early outreach.

Step 6 — Packaging for Agency Submission: Email, Drive Links, and Decks

Most agencies do not accept cold submissions, so your approach matters. Warm introductions, festival meetings, and referrals remain best. When you do get a request, deliver a clean, one-click review experience.

One-click submission package (what to attach)

• Executive one-pager (PDF)
• Story bible (PDF) — password-protected if requested
• Graphic novel sample (PDF) + low-res JPG visual pitch
• Adaptation plan for requested format (PDF)
• Rights summary (single-page PDF with key dates and registrations)
• Private Vimeo link for animatic/visual pitch (password-protected)

Email & file delivery setup

• Use cloud delivery (Google Drive, Dropbox, Box) with a single folder and a README.pdf with a table of contents.
• Set folder permissions to view-only and expiration (if possible) — agencies appreciate tidy control.
• File names: always begin with ProjectTitle_ so assets stay grouped in inboxes (ProjectTitle_Bible.pdf).

Sample Outreach Email (Template)

Subject line ideas: "[Project Title] — Transmedia IP (Graphic Novel + Adaptation Plan) — 90s Sci-Fi" or "[Mutual Contact] recommended I share [Project Title] with you"

Body template (concise):

1. One-line hook and logline.
2. Two-sentence why it fits the firm/agent (reference a recent signing like The Orangery if relevant).
3. Attached: one-pager + link to folder + password for visual pitch.
4. One-line ask: "Would you like a 15-minute call or should I send the pilot treatment and legal package?"

Sell with Data: Audience Proof & Traction

Packaged IP with metrics sells faster. Include any of the following with dates and sources:

• Graphic novel sales, Kickstarter/Indiegogo numbers, or crowdfunding backer counts.
• Social engagement: normalized metrics, not vanity numbers (e.g., email list open rate, retention on serialized pages).
• Festival selections, awards, or press mentions — list by name and date.
• Beta user feedback or playtest summaries for game-adjacent projects.

2026-Specific Best Practices & Pitfalls

• AI provenance: Buyers now ask if concept art or animatics used generative models. Keep a provenance log (prompts, model versions, seed values, commercial license confirmation).
• Unsolicited materials: Most agencies have policies against unsolicited submissions. Prioritize warm intros through managers, festivals, or legal counsel.
• Data privacy: When sharing private links, use password protection and viewer logs if possible.
• Localization: If you have international traction (e.g., translations), highlight it — agencies value IP that already travels well.

Timeline & Project Checklist (60–90 Day Build Plan)

1. Days 1–7: Define core logline, target formats, and initial visual references. Start visual mood board.
2. Days 8–21: Complete 8–12 page graphic novel sample + cover + character sheets.
3. Days 22–35: Draft story bible front matter and three episode/issue outlines.
4. Days 36–50: Produce 90–120s animatic and one-pager adaptation plan for target format.
5. Days 51–60: Assemble legal packet, register copyrights, document AI provenance.
6. Days 61–90: Build submission folder, rehearse 15-min pitch, and start outreach (festivals, contacts, targeted agency approaches).

Real-World Example: What The Orangery Did Right (Actionable Takeaways)

Public reports indicate The Orangery entered the market with packaged IP — complete bibles, strong visual identities, and a rights package that allowed WME to represent and monetize the properties. From that example, copy these moves:

• Lead with a marketable asset (graphic novel or bestselling series) and make the leap to screen explicit in your materials.
• Control key rights (screen, merchandising, international) to increase agency interest; buyers prefer clean licensing windows.
• Present a realistic adaptation plan and named creative attachments or wish-list talent to show commercial vision.

Closing: Actionable Takeaways to Implement Today

• Create a one-page executive summary that a busy agent can read in 30 seconds.
• Ship an 8–12 page, print-ready graphic novel sample that demonstrates narrative control.
• Write one adaptation plan tailored to your top target (TV or feature) and include a 3-page pilot/treatment.
• Secure copyright registrations and prepare a chain-of-title one-pager.
• Prepare a 90–120 second animatic hosted on a private Vimeo link.

Call to Action

Ready to build your transmedia portfolio for agency review? Download our transmedia portfolio checklist and Figma/InDesign templates, register your first copyright, and prepare a 90-second animatic. If you want personalized feedback, upload your one-pager and sample to our review portal and get a focused 30-minute critique that will tighten your pitch for agencies like WME.

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