How does one go about pitching a movie idea to a production company?

Everyone has an idea for a movie- no one cares if there's no script. You need a completed script- not rough draft, not an outline, but a professionally formatted complete screenplay.

Also there is no way to copyright an idea, because its not a tangible thing- just an outline of what could happen, only completed scripts can be copyrighted- and yes, if your idea is a good and novel one- people will steal it, so watch who you tell it to.

Take a college screenwriting course and practice writing a few unrelated shorts. Once you have the completed screenplay for your big idea- register it with the wga, then check the wga site for reputable script agents- they'll help you find a studio or production company willing to purchase the script- you don't approach the studios directly.

At least post yourself a copy of the pitch registered delivery so that it's dated and franked bu the mail.

Do not open it - this will be good protection for you.

Just ring the front desk and bluff it. Say you've already sent something it but were told to address it to "Acquisitions" department. there probably won't be such a department, but you'll be told who you should send it to!