Spencer Lanoue
Writing a TV pilot is a bit like crafting the first chapter of a novel. It sets the stage, introduces the characters, and teases the audience with what's to come. But unlike a novel, you have limited time and space to capture attention and make viewers want more. In this post, I'll walk you through the nuts and bolts of writing a TV pilot. Breaking it down into manageable steps and offering practical tips along the way.
Finding Your Unique Concept
Before you even start typing away at your keyboard, you need a solid concept. This is the heartbeat of your story, and it's what will make your show stand out in a crowded market. Let's face it. Every story under the sun has probably been told before, but your unique angle is what will make it fresh and exciting.
Consider what you're passionate about. What stories get you fired up? Maybe it's a mystery set in a futuristic world or a comedy about a quirky family. Whatever it is, make sure it's something you can see yourself working on for several seasons. Jot down every idea that comes to mind, no matter how outlandish it seems. You can refine them later.
Once you've got a few ideas, test them out. Discuss them with friends or fellow writers. Pay attention to which concepts spark enthusiasm and curiosity. This is also the perfect time to think about the tone of your show. Is it a light-hearted comedy, a gritty drama, or perhaps a mix of genres? The tone will guide many of your creative decisions moving forward.
Creating Dynamic Characters
Characters are the lifeblood of any TV show. They're the ones viewers will tune in to see each week, so they need to be compelling and relatable. Start by developing your main characters. Who are they at their core? What are their desires, fears, and flaws?
Consider giving each character a backstory that informs their actions and decisions. This doesn’t need to be fully fleshed out in the pilot, but having a strong understanding of your characters will help you write authentic dialogue and create believable interactions.
Let's take an example. Suppose you're writing a thriller series about a detective. Instead of making her a stereotypical hard-nosed cop, give her a unique twist. Perhaps she's a former artist who uses her skills of observation and creativity to solve crimes. This not only makes her stand out but also provides fertile ground for character development.
Detective Sarah Blake - Former artist turned detective, known for her keen eye for detail. Haunted by a past mistake, she's driven by a need to prove herself.
Supporting characters are just as important. They should have their own goals and arcs, which might intersect or clash with that of your protagonist. This creates tension and drama, keeping viewers invested in the storyline.
Structuring Your Pilot
Structuring a TV pilot can feel daunting, but it becomes manageable when broken down into key components. Generally, a one-hour drama pilot is around 55-60 pages, while a half-hour comedy is around 22-30 pages. Regardless of length, your pilot should follow a three-act structure.
Act One: The Setup
In the first act, introduce your world and characters. What's the initial situation, and what event disrupts it? This act should end with a hook that propels viewers into the next act. It's your chance to establish tone and set up the central conflict.
INT. ART STUDIO - DAY
Sarah stands in front of a canvas, brush in hand. Her phone buzzes. It's a call from the precinct. A body has been found.
Act Two: The Conflict
Here, your characters are thrown into the thick of things. Challenges arise, and the stakes get higher. This act is all about building tension and developing subplots. By the end, your protagonist should be facing a significant obstacle or decision.
Act Three: The Resolution
In the final act, resolve the main conflict introduced in the pilot but leave enough threads open to entice viewers to return for the next episode. This is where you deliver your climax and hint at the larger story arc.
For example, Sarah solves the case but discovers a clue that suggests a larger conspiracy. This unresolved question serves as a teaser for the episodes to come.
Writing Snappy Dialogue
Dialogue can make or break your pilot. It's the vehicle for character expression and plot advancement. Good dialogue sounds natural and authentic, capturing the nuances of how real people speak.
Start by letting your characters’ personalities shine through their words. A witty character might use sarcasm, while a more serious character might speak in clipped, precise sentences. Keep an ear out for how people talk in real life, and remember that less is often more. Don’t overwrite. Let subtext do the heavy lifting.
SARAH
(eyeing the crime scene)
Looks like someone had a bad day.
PARTNER
(grinning)
Come on, Sarah. You live for bad days.
Also, consider using dialogue to reveal information subtly. Instead of having a character say, "I'm scared of heights," show it through an action or a more nuanced line. For instance, "I'll take the elevator, thank you," can suggest a fear of heights without being overt.
Setting the Scene
Scene-setting in a TV pilot is more than just describing the physical environment. It's about creating an atmosphere that complements the story. Think about how your settings can reflect the themes and mood of your pilot.
If your show is a mystery, you might want to use dim lighting or shadowy locations to create suspense. For a comedy, bright and lively settings might work better. Use your settings to reinforce the narrative and character arcs.
When writing descriptions, be concise but vivid. Paint a picture with your words that allows producers and directors to visualize your scenes. But remember, a screenplay is a blueprint. You don’t need to include every detail. Just enough to convey the essence.
EXT. CITY STREET - NIGHT
Rain pours down as Sarah strides through the deserted street. Neon signs reflect off puddles, casting an eerie glow.
Nailing the Opening Scene
The opening scene is your chance to grab attention. It should be intriguing, memorable, and set the tone for the rest of the pilot. Think of it as your show's calling card.
Consider starting with a moment of action or a dramatic event that immediately pulls viewers in. Alternatively, a strong character moment or a provocative question can pique interest. The key is to make viewers want to know more.
For instance, if your pilot begins with Sarah solving a seemingly unrelated minor theft, only to discover a connection to a larger mystery, you're setting the stage for intrigue while showcasing her skills.
Polishing Your Script
Once you've completed your first draft, the real work begins. Rewriting. No script is perfect on the first try, so don’t be discouraged. Revision is where your pilot will truly come to life.
Read through your script with a critical eye. Are there plot holes or inconsistencies? Do your characters feel authentic? Is the pacing tight, or do some scenes drag on? Make notes and be ruthless in your edits.
Getting feedback is invaluable. Share your script with trusted friends, writers, or mentors. They can provide insights you might have missed. Be open to constructive criticism, but also trust your instincts. It's your story, after all.
Now, if you’re looking to streamline this process, consider using Spell. It's an AI document editor that can help draft, refine, and polish your script quickly, taking much of the hassle out of the revision phase.
Pitching Your Pilot
With a polished pilot script in hand, the next step is pitching it. This is often the most daunting part for many writers, but it's crucial for getting your show made.
Start by preparing a concise pitch that highlights your concept, characters, and the arc of the series. You should be able to convey the essence of your show in a few sentences. Practice delivering your pitch until it feels natural and engaging.
Consider creating a pitch deck or series bible to accompany your script. This document outlines the show's concept, character breakdowns, season arcs, and tone. It gives producers a more complete picture of your vision.
When you're ready, start reaching out to agents, producers, or networks that align with your show's genre and style. Networking is key in the industry, so attend events, join writing groups, and make connections that can help get your script in front of the right people.
And remember, Spell can help you create these pitch materials efficiently, ensuring they're clear, professional, and impactful.
Final Thoughts
Crafting a TV pilot is no small feat, but with patience and creativity, you can develop something truly special. Remember, the goal is to create a story that resonates and keeps viewers coming back for more. And if you find yourself stuck or in need of a quick draft, Spell is there to help you write and refine your pilot efficiently. Happy writing!
