Top Television Series Screenplays Every Aspiring Writer Must Examine
In the world of television, there are countless shows that have captivated audiences and redefined storytelling. To create the next great series, it's essential to study the techniques and strategies employed by the best in the business. Here are some insights and tips to help you on your journey.
Firstly, shows like "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "The Godfather" have set the bar for compelling workplace stories and character development. The first job interview in "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" serves as a defining moment for Mary's character arc, while every character's first line in "The Godfather" signals core wants and fears.
To study and apply these techniques, work in layers. Start by reading master scripts, applying the "but/therefore" chain logic, and creating a swipe file of your favourite scenes. Build pilot pages modeled on these scripts, and seek real feedback on every draft. Schedule rewrites, and track your progress to see improvements over time.
When breaking down a script for study, list the plots (A, B, C), locate every turn, and flag moments of exposition that double as conflict. For instance, rituals in "The Godfather" reveal the social hierarchy without bulky exposition, while the supporting cast in "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" creates predictable, repeatable tension.
Structure is key, and shows like "The Godfather" are built on chained events, never standalone beats. Each scene in "The Godfather" can launch into a full episode, supporting series longevity. A great network pilot has a strong structural engine, a clear character goal, and the ability to hook execs by page two.
To turn insights into career results, build a repeatable workflow: read, map structure, extract techniques, apply them, and seek detailed feedback on every draft. Writers and producers often study acclaimed pilot scripts from high-level TV projects like "Foundation" by David S. Goyer and Josh Friedman, as well as film scripts like "Interstellar" by Jonathan and Christopher Nolan, to improve their own TV projects.
Dialogue in "The Godfather" always carries weight, focusing on power, loyalty, or threat. Remember, every word should serve a purpose.
Lastly, focus on pilots because they set expectations for both story and brand, serving as your first impression with everyone - audience, agent, or producer. Your readers are waiting. Give them a reason to binge. Set a timeline, stick to your drills, and let your own series pilot claim its place among the best TV network screenplays. Your journey to TV stardom begins with the first page. Good luck!
