Hi folks, I'm just wondering if a one off 30 minute special would work if I also wrote another 5 half hour comedy specials on different subjects. I've just finished a 30 minute comedy script 'Sleeping Seagulls' and I have other ideas for other half hour specials but I am not sure if they would work individually as a series.
Would anything like that work at all?
They do that very occassionaly on television but there is some kind of reason for it usually. Channel 4 did it a couple of years ago; new writers, six new shows with people like tim from the office (at this time in the morning, the actors name escapes me). He played a former magician who got insulted on a kids TV show in the 80's. He goes on to work in a sofa shop, where people won't let him forget what he used to do.
Funny for half an hour. But would have been difficult to make it funny for six weeks perhaps
I suppose if it was more of an ensemble thing like Dark Place with the same cast in diferent roles. I suppose the issue would be new sets/costumes etc would be more expensive. Also audiences like to identify and see characters grow. It could work but if you're just starting it maybe more useful to show you know how to write the standards like sitcom.
Ooh now I think of it DarkPlace is a rubbish example. I should say that Peter Kay thing, same cast diferent roles. That must have been quite pricy to film and stuff.
Quote: James Turner @ August 30 2009, 4:06 AM BSTHi folks, I'm just wondering if a one off 30 minute special would work if I also wrote another 5 half hour comedy specials on different subjects. I've just finished a 30 minute comedy script 'Sleeping Seagulls' and I have other ideas for other half hour specials but I am not sure if they would work individually as a series.
Would anything like that work at all?
You want a TV company to let you make six unrelated shows? Galton & Simpon's Comedy Playhouse or Coogan's Run spring to mind, but unless you are already sufficiently famous for the concept to sell on the strength of having your name attached to it, then it is not going to happen.
However, having six pilot scripts under your belt could be considered a bit of a bonus when it comes to pitching stuff.
Most prodcos and Writersroom ask for sitcom. I always reckon this was because sitcom is so hard comparatively it's a good test of skills.
Thanks folks. Food for thought there. Have had some great feedback on the 'Sleeping Seagulls' script (i know it's a rubbish name haha).
If anybody wants to see a sample let me know. It's been a great help bringing this up.
Cheers.
Have you thought about Radio for them a bit of extension and you could have six afternoon plays.
Quote: Marc P @ August 31 2009, 8:42 AM BSTHave you thought about Radio for them a bit of extension and you could have six afternoon plays.
Have you thought about Radio for them a bit of extension and you could have six afternoon plays.
Genius answer! In the theatres of the mind the sets are always free.
Thanks for the help folks. It's worth bearing in mind writing a radio script but the couple of scripts I'm putting together are not suitable for radio.
I've had feedback saying the script is hilarious. Other feedback said it got the tone right for about half the script (a step away from reality) then I went OTT which didn't suit the tone (although it was still funny).
Like I said if anybody wants a sample let me know and I'll send it after tuesday when I've registered it.