Television drama writing are some of the most cherished and popular entertainment franchises today. From iconic series like “Game of Thrones” and “Dexter” to critically acclaimed shows like “Better Call Saul” and “Mad Men,” television dramas captivate audiences with their intricate storytelling and compelling characters. This comprehensive guide will explore the essentials of writing for television drama, including developing your own series, contributing to established shows, and crafting compelling scripts.
Introduction to Writing for Television
Nearly every word spoken on television is scripted by writers, but much of this work is done in-house. As an outsider, your primary creative writing opportunities will typically be limited to:
- Writing a new drama series or serial
- Contributing to an existing drama serial
- Writing comedy material
This guide will focus on the first two options: creating new drama series/serials and contributing to existing ones.
Developing a Television Drama
Unique Selling Point (USP)
When developing a television drama, your first consideration should be its unique selling point (USP). What sets your idea apart from other shows in the same genre? A successful drama often fits into an established genre but includes a twist that makes it fresh and interesting. For example:
- The Mentalist: A standard detective series with the twist of a protagonist who is an ex-con artist using unconventional psychological skills to solve crimes.
- Columbo: A detective show where the mystery is not “whodunnit” but “howdunnit.”
- Law & Order: A blend of police procedural and courtroom drama.
Series vs. Serial
Decide whether your show will be a series or a serial:
- Series: Shows like “The Mentalist,” “Morse,” and “CSI” where each episode features a new story with the same characters.
- Serial: Shows like “Mad Men” and “Game of Thrones” where the story continues from episode to episode.
In recent years, the distinction between series and serials has blurred, with many series incorporating longer story arcs that extend across multiple episodes or seasons. This approach helps establish a loyal following by rewarding regular viewers with deeper storytelling. However, it can confuse new or less regular viewers who might not understand ongoing references. Fortunately, with the internet, catching up on story arcs has become easier.
Writing for Established Shows
Writing for Soap Operas
Soap operas, such as “EastEnders” and “The Young and the Restless,” are long-running serials with multiple parallel plots. If you want to write for a soap, you need to showcase your ability through sample material. Here are two effective methods:
- Write a Stand-Alone Episode: Create a story using regular characters from the soap, ensuring it’s unrelated to current plots and is timed to the length of a regular episode. Indicate where commercial breaks will occur if writing for a commercial channel.
- Write an Original Drama: Create a new 30 or 45-minute drama tailored for a soap audience. This demonstrates your ability to invent interesting characters and plots from scratch.
Writing for Long-Running Drama Series
Long-running drama series like “Dr. Who,” “Supernatural,” and “Law & Order” often seek fresh writing talent. However, opportunities are typically limited to those with a proven track record. To get started:
- Contact the production company of the show you’re interested in.
- Be prepared with a synopsis of your story idea to ensure it’s not similar to past episodes or something already planned.
- If your synopsis is well received, you might be asked to submit a script.
The Television Script
Script Format and Length
Television scripts have a specific format, similar to movie scripts, using scene headers, and abbreviations like ‘EXT.’ for exterior and ‘INT.’ for interior. Names, directions, and dialogue are aligned differently, and important details are highlighted in small caps.
- Script Length: Unlike movies, television scripts must fit within a defined time slot. To estimate length, read each scene aloud and time yourself. Overwriting is generally better than underwriting, as it’s easier to trim content than to pad it out.
For examples of television scripts in various formats.
Tips for Writing Television Drama
Starting Your Story Quickly
In television, capturing the audience’s attention quickly is crucial. Unlike in a theater or cinema, home viewers can easily change the channel if they’re not immediately engaged. Many television dramas provide a glimpse of the action before the main titles to hook viewers. For example:
- Example: In a new detective series, “Inspector Ruff,” the opening scene could show two women burying a body at twilight, with a young boy secretly watching them. This raises immediate questions and intrigue, encouraging viewers to stay tuned.
Writing Short Scenes
Television audiences have short attention spans, so keep scenes brief and punchy. Each new scene should provide new information and move the story closer to its climax, maintaining interest and excitement.
Visual Interest and Imagery
Scenes with visual interest and action are more engaging than static interior scenes. For instance, a conversation between characters can be set in an interesting location or include dynamic elements to hold the viewer’s attention. Additionally, images should play a significant role in storytelling, conveying information visually rather than relying solely on dialogue.
Commercial Breaks and Cliffhangers
When writing for commercial television, plan for breaks from the start. A half-hour show typically has one break, while a one-hour show has two or more. Ensure your scene structure accommodates these breaks and aim to end each segment on a cliffhanger to keep viewers engaged. Cliffhangers often involve significant questions or potentially dangerous situations that encourage viewers to return after the break.
Submitting Your Script
Where to Send Your Script
Research the production companies of shows you’d like to write for and contact producers, showrunners, or script editors. Useful resources include:
- The Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook (UK)
- VisualNet Directory (USA)
- BBC Writers Room: An online resource providing information on writing for television and radio.
Tips on Submissions
- Have a Script Ready: If your proposal attracts interest, be ready to follow up quickly with a completed script.
- Prepare a Synopsis: Ensure your synopsis is ready in advance to respond promptly if asked for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Television Drama Writing
1. What is the difference between a television series and a serial?
Series: In a television series, each episode features a new story with the same characters, allowing viewers to watch episodes independently. Examples include “The Mentalist” and “CSI.”
Serial: A serial tells a continuous story across multiple episodes or seasons. Viewers need to watch episodes in order to follow the plot. Examples include “Game of Thrones” and “Mad Men.”
2. How do I develop a unique selling point (USP) for my television drama?
To develop a USP, find a twist that sets your drama apart from others in the same genre. It should fit into an established genre but offer something fresh and interesting. For example, “The Mentalist” features a detective with unconventional psychological skills, and “Columbo” is a “howdunnit” instead of a “whodunnit.”
3. What should I include in a proposal for a new television series?
A detailed proposal should include:
- An introduction to the location.
- Descriptions of the main characters and their relationships.
- A detailed plot of the first episode (pilot).
- Brief outlines of at least five additional episodes.
- A description of the long-term story arc.
4. How can I write for established television shows?
First, contact the producer, script editor, or showrunner to inquire if they accept submissions. Some shows encourage fresh talent and may provide submission guidelines. Prepare a sample script or original drama tailored to the show’s format and themes.
5. How do I write a stand-alone episode for a soap opera?
Create a story using regular characters from the soap, unrelated to current plots. Ensure the script is the length of a regular episode and indicate where commercial breaks will occur if writing for a commercial channel. This demonstrates your understanding of the show’s characters, themes, and backstories.
6. What is the standard format for a television script?
Television scripts use scene headers, and abbreviations like ‘EXT.’ for exterior and ‘INT.’ for interior. Names, directions, and dialogue are aligned differently, and important details are in small caps. Avoid excessive camera directions. The BBC Writers Room offers examples of television scripts in various formats.
7. How do I estimate the length of a television script?
Unlike movies, television scripts must fit within a defined time slot. Read each scene aloud and time yourself to estimate the length. Overwriting is generally better than underwriting, as it’s easier to trim content than to pad it out.
8. How can I make my television drama engaging from the start?
Start your story quickly to capture the audience’s attention. Provide a glimpse of the action before the main titles. For example, an opening scene showing a crime in progress or a shocking discovery can hook viewers immediately.
9. Why are short scenes important in television drama?
Television audiences have short attention spans, so keeping scenes brief and punchy maintains interest and excitement. Each new scene should provide new information and move the story closer to its climax.
10. How can I incorporate visual interest and imagery in my script?
Set scenes in interesting locations or include dynamic elements. Use visual storytelling to convey information instead of relying solely on dialogue. For example, show character traits through their environment and actions.
11. How should I plan for commercial breaks in my script?
Plan for commercial breaks from the start. For a half-hour show, divide it into two parts separated by a break. A one-hour show typically has two or more breaks. End each segment on a cliffhanger to keep viewers engaged.
12. Where can I find contact information for submitting my television script?
Useful resources include:
- The Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook (UK)
- VisualNet Directory (USA)
- BBC Writers Room: An online resource providing information on writing for television and radio. Additionally, scan the credits of shows you’d like to write for and contact the relevant production companies.
13. What should I do if my proposal attracts interest from a producer or script editor?
Be prepared to follow up quickly with a completed script. Have your script ready to send out, and prepare a detailed synopsis in advance to respond promptly if asked for more information.
14. How can I create a compelling long-term story arc for my series?
Outline the major plot points and character developments that will occur throughout the series. Ensure each episode contributes to the overarching narrative, maintaining a balance between episodic content and the long-term story.
15. What are some tips for writing engaging television drama?
- Start your story quickly to capture viewers’ attention.
- Keep scenes short and dynamic.
- Use visual storytelling to convey information.
- Plan for commercial breaks and end segments on cliffhangers.
- Have a completed script ready if your proposal attracts interest.
Conclusion
Writing television drama requires creativity, dedication, and an understanding of the unique aspects of television storytelling. By developing a compelling USP, deciding on the format, and mastering the art of scriptwriting, you can create engaging and memorable television dramas. Whether you’re crafting a new series or contributing to an established show, this guide provides the foundation you need to succeed in the world of television drama writing. Happy writing!
