Jeffrey LieberNov 19, 2022

Since pilots, specifically original pilots, have become the standard "audition" for wannabe TV writers, I'm going to try and do a set of rules for them that mimics the one I've done for showrunning (can be found here --> https://mastodon.social/@JeffLieber/109315346829400049).

Please know these rules exist a) for me to work them out for myself b) as a jumping off point for discussion and c) as a set of precepts to abandon and improve upon once you've got it figured out.

So, without further ado...

Show threadJeffrey LieberNov 19, 2022

Pilot Rule #1: With the exception of a pilot based on a huge piece of intellectual property, getting yours from your head to production is a game of telephone.

The idea must be passed from person to person. You to producer...then that producer to an executive...then an executive to their boss and then to their boss’ boss.

Simplicity is the key. So, your pilot should be utterly understandable and pitchable in 3 sentences or less.

If it's not…simplify.

Then simplify again.

Show threadJohn ShirleyNov 19, 2022
@JeffLieber that sounds right. I had several pilots as scripts bought. None quite got to production. Except in two cases certain producers took the idea and did it differently somewhere else--they stole it.
Show threadJeffrey LieberNov 19, 2022
@JohnShirley2023 Define stolen. I'm curious what happened.
Show threadJohn Shirley

@JeffLieber

I wouldn't say here. I'll send you a private whatsit

Nov 19, 2022 at 10:13pmWeb