Maybe you work in the industry, or you want to, but you’re not entirely sure how it all works. The terms “executive producer” and “producer” confuse you. You think you know, but you’re not as comfortable with who does what as you’d like to be. No worries! This post answers the question: what does an executive producer do? We’ll go over the fundamentals so you can gain some confidence, and aspire to something other than some assistant on a one-time production gig. Let’s jump in.Continue reading What Does an Executive Producer Do — Film/TV Role Explained
The best dark comedy movies and TV shows go for the jugular. It’s not enough to just be edgy, or even malicious. You need to tap into deep, disturbing levels of discomfort… and build a summer home.We made the ultimate list of dark comedy movies and TV shows, plus a video essay that takes a deep dive into one dark comedy, The Lobster. Let’s jump into our list of the best dark comedy movies and TV shows.Continue reading 70 Hilarious Dark Comedy Movies & TV Shows
Preparation is key if you want to know how to pitch a TV show. Thousands of creators each year try to get their TV show ideas in front of major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO. But how do you stand out in a world full of pitches? This guide shows you exactly how to pitch a TV show: from logline and pitch deck to mastering pitch meetings and tailoring your approach for different networks. Continue reading How to Pitch a TV Show Like a Pro [Free Pitch Template]
Six years after the series finale of The Office, it placed #1 among the most watched TV shows on Netflix. And while there are many reasons for this, the character of Michael Scott has undoubtedly made the show timeless. Whether he is conducting a hilariously pointless meeting, closing a deal at Chili’s, or trying to save the branch from closing, Michael Scott is one of the most original characters in TV.While the hilarity of Michael Gary Scott is completely obvious in retrospect, the writers of The Office had a hard time creating this inimitable character. In fact, The Office was…
The actual writing of your script is the fun part. But, just like any form of writing, you have to know where you’re going first. Organization is important. That's where a script outline comes into play. Understanding your central character’s desire, and capturing the scenarios they attract for themselves, should guide that process.There is no straightforward way to know how to outline a screenplay. But these tried-and-true guidelines will help you crack the structure for your character’s journey.Continue reading How to Write a Script Outline for Film and TV (Free Template and Examples)
If you’ve seen one commercial, you've seen 'em all, right? Not exactly. Each commercial is a unique production and requires everything a short film does. Scripts, shot lists, script breakdowns, shooting schedules, and more. In this post, we break down the TV commercial production process and everything you need to do before the cameras roll.Continue reading TV Commercial Production Prep — From Script to Schedule
You, a production professional, know how to make script sides.The 2nd AD tells you, “Make script sides and distro when they’re done.” But what if you’re responsible for sending script sides to actors and crew? What are sides, exactly, and why are they so important in production? How do you make them? What does distro mean? In this article, we’ll cover how to make script sides like a master. By the end, you’ll be ready to take your productions — and your career — to the next level.Continue reading How to Create Script Sides for Film & TV [with Examples]
A theme song can be the defining sound of a television show, movie, or even a personal brand. It's a melodic and catchy tune that encapsulates the essence, mood, and tone of the subject it represents. Its importance is often underestimated, yet its power is undeniable. This article will delve into the significance of a theme song, exploring its role and impact in various contexts. Continue reading What is a Theme Song — How Music Sets the Stage
Ever wondered why certain “hot new TV shows” get a full-on media blitz while others… barely get a bus ad? It’s more than just the luck of the draw, but rather a TV business strategy that starts at an annual event called the TV Upfronts taking place every Spring in New York. Over the course of this article, we’re going to define the event, its importance to the TV Industry as a whole and how it’s evolved over time. Let’s dive in. Continue reading What Are Upfronts in TV — How Advertising Works in Television
Subtitles are more than just words at the bottom of the screen; they're a powerful tool that can break language barriers, improve accessibility for the hearing impaired, and promote cultural exchange through cinema. As we explore the intricacies of subtitles, we'll also discover how they have evolved over the years and their significance in today's globalized film industry. So, grab some popcorn and join us as we uncover the magic of subtitles and their role in elevating our movie-watching escapades.Continue reading What are Subtitles — How Subtitles Work in Film & TV