Screenwriting : How should my pilot end? by Jai Jackson

I would only end a pilot on a cliffhanger if it fits the story. I wouldn't force it. If it's better to end a pilot with a regular ending, go that way.

But it should be open right?

The ending doesn't have to be open. The ending can wrap up the pilot.

Also, is your show episodic or serial? If it's episodic, the episodes will be self-contained, so each episode (and their endings) won't affect the others. Episodic is like "X-Files" and "NCIS." Serial is like "Game of Thrones" and "Breaking Bad."

@Jai Yeah @Maurice gives good advice cos it depends on type of series, some are short and closed ended others are serials that carry on months or even years. I studied this fascinating topic at London Film School. It’s kinda a never ending question with as many end results. With serials it maybe okay to satisfy a minor question so audience don’t feel frustrated but there must be an ongoing reason audience and producers want to know more. The material must have legs. Breaking Bad was a great pilot cos we saw a half naked nutter in a gas mask driving so madly cops gave chase but a question was left, how did a cool intellectual teacher get to this point?

I try to end mine on a "what's going to happen next," tone. However, it really depends on what you're happy with. Onward and upward.