As luck would have it, I may soon have an opportunity to talk to a cable channel producer who is looking for some fresh material. In case that opportunity indeed happens, I've been brainstorming a concept for a dramatic series. This isn't something I'd imagined doing--so I'm learning all in a rush how to pitch TV ideas. One thing I've discovered is that a TV series, if the setting differs much from life as we know it, needs a "bible." What I haven't been able to discover is what a TV series bible consists of. Can anyone at S32 enlighten me? What elements need to be included, how much detail should I go into, are there any formatting requirements, etc.? [This is posted to both Screenwriting and Development, as I'm not sure which category is more appropriate.]
Filmmaking / Directing : How do you make a TV series "bible"? by Molly N. Moss
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At this stage you do not need a series bible. You need an excellent pitch. When you meet with this cable channel producer you should have five or six excellent pitches ready. If the producer doesn't connect to the first one, be ready to pitch more. When the producer finds the right material then the development will begin. It's at that time that the bible will be written. So I suggest that you develop several excellent, marketable, exciting pitches before the meeting and not spend anytime at all writing a series bible.
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D Marcus is quite right, Molly. The pitch is what will pique their interest. Best of luck to you! (it's very exciting, isn't it?)
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Marcus is right. First, concentrate on the pitches. However, I will say this for your information. A series bible contains 1. title of the series 2. Logline 3. Pitch (Brief Synopsis) 4. Settings 5. Character Bios 6. Story Arc. 7. Episode Outlines 8. Rules of the world you are creating 9. Gadgets and Gizmos It is no particular order. Some may apply, some may not. Character bios need to consider main characters, repeat characters, guest characters. Settings may include location information. Story arc includes tone and theme of the story with a more detailed synopsis. the series bible will also include the pilot episode script.
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Congrats
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As much as I hate saying it, my experience in the marketing world, has me wanting to suggest looking to work with someone with marketing experience. They can help you create an excellent pitch book / leave behind. After all, this is a very visual industry and as much as we want to say they are buying our words, its ofter easier to sell them something they can see.
Thanks, Thomas, that's not a bad idea. Is there a manager/agent you recommend I reach out to?
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Hey Molly, You can usually find an example of a bible or two on line. The Battlestar Galactica bible is an excellent example. I'm working with a both an established producer and an actor on three different series proposals, and came across them on line. Also, you may want to download more than one, as it will give you ideas on different approaches. Hope this helps.
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It was my understanding that the bible contained everything, script, characters, arcs, synopsis and anything else you have. Make it as detailed as possible because that is what all involved will turn to when there is a problem or question.
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Hey Molly, sorry for the late response. I actually have helped people do these before (one actually sold the show). I don't typically do the writing but I do help make it look good (10+ years as a graphic design for the entertainment world).
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Great luck girlfriend, I learned something new from your post. I hope everything works out!