The layout of the set

How important is thinking about the layout of the set at the writing stage? Does anyone make floorplans of their sets so that it's easier for them to keep track of the action? Or is this unnecessary?

I ask this because if you envisage a more traditional sitcom (laugh tracks, etc) it has a more theatrical set design and limited camera angles than a modern sitcom where the characters are followed by steadicam.

Is this really just part of establishing a clear vision of one's sitcom in the first place?

I too aim for a studio based sitcom. No you don't have to worry about the set. Just keep things simple.

About three main rooms, example: Living room, office, pub. Just think about the basic props, couch, bar, desk, the set designers will worry about the rest.

Like Leevil says, try keep it simple -- not just for costs sake but also to breed familiarity in your audience. They won't like it if no two sets are the same.

Anyway -- if you ever get anywhere, I reckon the producer will convince you to move the very expensive sets indoors unless *absolutely* necessary!

Hope this helps

Dan

When I write, the set in my head is always sub-consciously based around a place I've been before.

You mean other shows? Yeah I do that.

It always worth thinking of ways to make your action take place in as small a place as possible. I once read if you've got a scene set in the garden - put it in a greenhouse or a potting shed instead - it's a lot easier for the production team to mock up.

Quote: Leevil @ September 4, 2007, 5:38 PM

You mean other shows? Yeah I do that.

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Other shows, and actual places in real life. It's useful I think, it helps you get a feel for how something looks. Kind of.

Yeah, it also help you imagine only having three walls as well

Don't think about the setting, just write.

The layout of the set should be one of the last things on your mind, in terms of worrying about communicating that in your script. Commissioners really aren't interested in that.

As a writer, your focus should be on making it as funny and compelling as possible.

If you get commissioned there's lots more qualified people to undertake the task of set layout than you.

Just make your stage directions as clear and readable (and interesting!) as you can manage. Remember at this stage you're writing a selling script, not a shooting script.

I've never worried about a set. The important thing is to make the script as good as possible. It's the story and the characters that you've got to worry about at this stage.

Yeah. Think about the set when you're having a poo or something.

I sometimes do a rough bird's eye plan and list props etc., so I can remember where stuff is, but I'd never send those off with a script.