Hi,
I have just finished my comedy script 6 x 30 mins, has anyone filmed a pilot episode to send to TV etc with your script if so do you film/send a full 30min episode or more of a 15 min taster clip?
Any info would be great
Kind regards
Filming a pilot
Unless you can afford proper production values, then I wouldn't bother. Just send your best script in, man!
There's always the option of just making a short audio pilot, too; as obviously, with decent performances, you can produce a taster that can sound as professional as anything on the radio.
Echo the thoughts above - unless you can make something of broadcast quality there's really no point, and even then your work is very likely to have to be re-shot for a TV pilot.
If, however, you feel your scripts aren't doing your unique voice justice, you might want to shoot a short taster. Sometimes seeing something is the only way to know if it's funny (imagine how unremarkable most Fast Show or Tim & Eric sketches would look on the page), so provided you or your cast are solid performers, you have 100% faith in the script and you're prepared to front some cash, you might well try getting something in the can. It'll be a learning experience and it might score you some interest but don't expect it ever to make people's screens.
A lot of TV people do say now they would like to see some shot footage. I know of at least one person who got a pilot made on the strength of the stuff he shot. Content should always be more important than productions qualities. As one script editor said to me you can keep on polishing that turd, Marc. But it is still going to be a turd. Whatever happened to Micheal Jacob by the way??
Quote: David Bussell @ June 16 2011, 2:54 PM BSTEcho the thoughts above - unless you can make something of broadcast quality there's really no point, and even then your work is very likely to have to be re-shot for a TV pilot.
If, however, you feel your scripts aren't doing your unique voice justice, you might want to shoot a short taster. Sometimes seeing something is the only way to know if it's funny (imagine how unremarkable most Fast Show or Tim & Eric sketches would look on the page), so provided you or your cast are solid performers, you have 100% faith in the script and you're prepared to front some cash, you might well try getting something in the can. It'll be a learning experience and it might score you some interest but don't expect it ever to make people's screens.
That reminds me, what happened with your Pilot?
Quote: catskillz @ June 16 2011, 5:36 PM BSTThat reminds me, what happened with your Pilot?
Nothing. Maybe something will happen one day, but nothing so far.
What pilot? Was it a script for a sitcom you sent off?
Quote: Vader @ June 22 2011, 7:46 AM BSTWhat pilot? Was it a script for a sitcom you sent off?
It was a self funded sketch show pilot that Bussell, Stott and I did last year.
http://matthewstott.wordpress.com/2010/02/27/missing-scene-in-the-can/
If it comes to nothing, then at least I picked up a few tips from the pro's. And wrote a line for my hero Eldon.
Cool... How much did that cost, if you don't mind me asking?
I'd rather not say just in case my girlfriend is reading.
That's a poor excuse! I guess you won't want to PM me either then ya tease.