As an aspiring TV writer, I mostly spec procedural or genre shows (CSI, Supernatural, Bones, The Flash). As I brainstorm ideas for my first original pilot script, I've come up with something that is basically a straight-up family drama... but with a twist that would probably be labeled "magical realism." I know that several shows in the '90s and early 2000s (Joan of Arcadia, Wonderfalls, Pushing Daisies, Carinvale, Eli Stone etc) told some really fantastic stories in that genre, but I'm curious as to what others are observing in television at this present moment. Is magical realism going to be a turn-off, since it's neither straight drama nor full-on horror/sci fi/fantasy?
Screenwriting : Magical Realism in Television by Sarah Schulz
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I love the concept of "magical realism family television show", and would be more intrigued by that than I would be by a sitcom concept; procedural concept; gangster/cop concept; reality show concept; or supernatural show concept. Take away the mainstay genres like I mentioned, and everything else is kinda cyclical. I think that's because of the new generation that emerges every seven - nine years. It's like fashion in that sense...every seven - nine years....emerges a new group of consumers...here comes the next generation's cycle of time and market-tested products. So I think that's a really great concept that you're chin-scratching. I would go full-steam ahead on that project; plan and outline my first season; develop my characters; write my bible; and write the first few scripts. And kinda as quickly as possible. Accomplish all that, Sarah, and treat yourself to a cantaloupe Italian Ice at Taste Chicago on Hollywood Way. And maybe a sausage sandwich....and some pizza....mmmmm. Now I'm hunnnnnngry, and all I'm staring at is a vanilla yogurt protein bar. :( Good luck, Sarah!
Bill, thanks for your input--that's very encouraging! And I think you're right that it would be a bit more original, more likely to stand out (assuming I write it well, of course, ha) than something more pigeonholed to a mainstream genre.
You go, Sarah!
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On a webinar with Joey and Jake Detharidge last night he talked about concepts writers believe execs, agents, and managers are looking for. He says to just write what you enjoy. Don't worry too much about what is currently out there and focus more on what you enjoy writing. Find your voice and how it relates to the stories you want to tell. You need to stand out based on your own voice so the people you want to impress see you stand out from other writers with a unique voice. Good luck as I am in the same boat. I have written 4 original TV pilots and still going. I have an idea of what is on TV and I ask myself "How could I make my concept stand out and be different from the same genre shows on TV?" . In other words, don;t write the next CSI, too many crime drama shows like that. Hard to compete. Be unique and others will notice you!