I have been thinking a lot about pilots. In the last year I’ve been hired to story edit a few series in development and have watched the writers struggle to get their pilots working. I always advise people not to write a “first” episode. Don’t set up the series. Write a typical episode. Then the producer and broadcaster know what they’re getting into and you know how your concept works. But of course, working on my own pilot, I am writing a set up episode. Hopefully, it has all the other elements in place, but it is my protagonist’s first day on the job. So much for following my own advice.
As I write, I am also studying other people’s pilots. I have watched the first eps of Veronica Mars, The Shield, CSI, Friday Night Lights and the Wire a bunch of times. And I’ve started breaking them down and analyzing them from a structural point of view. Those analyses are what I’m going to share with you for these first few posts.
I’m going to start with The Wire. Masterpiece that it is. You might want to watch it again before you read what I have to say. If you have to buy season 1, it’s money well spent.
I sometimes watch The Wire with the subtitles on so I can follow the dialogue.
Jennifer
i watch 24 with subtitles. now i realize it’s a family thing.
Ralphie
My wife and I watch 24 with subtitles, too. But mainly it’s hard to hear the dialog over the crying of our baby, whom we’re neglecting because we’re addicted to 24.
Ralphie
Jill – based on your points of reference, I gather you are writing a sitcom. Will it be three-cam?
Jill Golick
Sorry, Ralphie, it’s not a sitcom. The show I’m devoting most of my writing time to is an hour long procedural.
Jake
About a year ago, I realized that I eventually want to make a living writing. Over the past several months, I have been working on a series with my wife.
I came across your website today after finding your name on the Writers Guild of Canada website.
Any quick advice for an aspiring writer developing something we feel has never been done before?
Ya I know, that’s what every aspiring writer thinks but if you read the Secret by Byrne, you know that things happen when you stay positive 🙂
great blog, its on my favorites now
admin
Jake-
My advice is write, watch TV, rewrite, hang out with other writers, rewrite, read about writing and rewrite some more. If you’re in Toronto and can do it, go to the CFC — they’ll help you to home your craft and meet people. Otherwise, keep writing and yes, stay positive.