We’ll be diving into more detail when the course begins July 9th (still a few seats available to sign up), but I thought this might be a good launchpad for those of you in the process of wrangling your ideas into something more concrete. Sure, writers live and breathe ideas. We dream them. Toss them in our cornflakes for breakfast. Ideas keep us company throughout the day.
They’re also the seeds of great television. All you need now is water… Or at least these 5 essential elements to get your further down the road toward a memorable pilot script:
Element #1: A Unique and Engaging Premise
Your pilot’s premise is the foundation upon which your entire series will be built. It should be fresh, intriguing, and full of potential for compelling storylines and character growth. Ask yourself: What makes your pilot stand out from the countless others out there? In our course, we’ll work on refining your premise and ensuring it has the legs to sustain multiple seasons.
Element #2: Unforgettable Characters
Characters are the heart and soul of any great TV series. Your pilot must introduce characters that are complex, relatable, and ripe for development. Give your audience a reason to invest in their journeys from the very first scene. Through our weekly workshops, you’ll receive valuable feedback on your character creation and learn techniques to make them truly unforgettable.
Element #3: A Strong Pilot Story
While a pilot episode sets up the series’ overall premise, it must also tell a satisfying story in its own right. Your pilot should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, with enough hooks to leave viewers eager for more. In the course, we’ll break down the structure of successful pilot stories and help you craft a compelling narrative that stands on its own.
Element #4: Effective World-Building
Whether your series is set in a small town or a vast galaxy far, far away, your pilot needs to establish a vivid and immersive world. Effective world-building doesn’t mean info-dumping; it’s about strategically weaving in details that bring your setting to life. Our on-demand videos will delve into the art of world-building, providing you with tools to create a rich, textured universe for your characters to inhabit.
Element #5: A Strong Voice and POV
Finally, your pilot should have a distinct voice and point of view that sets it apart from other shows. This encompasses everything from the dialogue to the visual style to the tone. Developing your unique voice is crucial, and through the personalized feedback in our course, you’ll gain the confidence to let your voice shine through on every page.
Crafting a compelling TV pilot is no easy feat, but by focusing on these five essential elements, you’ll be well on your way to writing a script that captivates readers and viewers. And remember, in my upcoming course, we’ll be taking a deep dive into each of these elements and so much more! The course is a hands-on experience with the goal of completing the first draft of a television pilot. You’ll have access to on-demand videos, live weekly workshops, and invaluable feedback on your work-in-progress. So, if you’re ready to take your TV writing skills to the next level and create a truly irresistible pilot, join me on this exciting journey starting July 9th. Let’s make some TV magic together!