Why Multiple Cliffhangers May Not Work for Your TV Series
Why Multiple Cliffhangers May Not Work for Your TV Series
Leave 'em wanting more.
Keep 'em guessing.
Leave the door open so the audience walks through.
The idea of writing a TV series with irresistible cliffhangers is one that may have some writers confused, especially when it comes to the execution. But Lucy V, Hay of Bang2Write feels that too many mysteries or unanswered questions could mislead the viewer. Don't give them up, she says. Just use them the right way.
"...this is the problem with a good 80% of the TV spec series I see: they leave everything dangling from the offset (oo er); they completely underestimate the power of conflict or resolution within the episode itself."
She's got a point. Conflict and Resolution is cool.
But this is where I exit stage left and not tell you anything else.
Because you know, cliffhangers...
Read More Here:
How To Plot TV Series:
“Story Of The Week” Vs. Serial Element
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About the Author
Joleene DesRosiers
Screenwriter, Actor, Producer
Joleene DesRosiers is a former television reporter and anchor turned indie screenwriter and director/producer at a PBS affiliate television station in Northern New York/Canada.This role allows her to write, produce, and direct regional and national documentaries, docs-series, and other series produc...
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