Screenwriting : TV Sitcom pilot by Rick Labelle

A montage can be a useful tool for conveying a character's lack of growth or development over a period of time. By showing a series of short, related scenes or events in rapid succession, a montage can effectively communicate a sense of progression or change.

However, it is important to use montages sparingly and with purpose, as they can be a cliched or overused device if not used carefully. If you are considering using a montage in your cold open, make sure it serves a specific purpose and helps to set the tone or establish the theme of your show. You may also want to consider whether there are other, more subtle, or creative ways to convey the same information about your character's lack of growth. https://driftboss.co

What's an image, a metaphor, for lack of growth? A macro shot of a plant or flower drying up and shriveling for lack of water... but that metaphor seems worse than lack of growth.

Thanks for taking the time to share your advice.

Hi Rick, I think a well placed montage can be a great storytelling device - is this a comedic montage or a dramatic one?

Hey, Rick Labelle. I think using a montage for your cold open to show the character's lack of growth is a great idea. You'll be able to show the reader something about the character (he fails to grow) in a short amount of time/without taking up too many pages.

Hi Molly and Maurice, Writing a comedy and I was thinking that a short montage would be great to introduce the main character and bring him to his current state and goal - of course which will be met with obstacles. Thank you for your suggestions. I also like the idea of freeing up dialogue for the main story. Cheers.

You're welcome, Rick. Now that I know you're writing a Comedy, (I missed "Sitcom" in your title -- How???!!!), I think using a montage for your cold open to show the character's lack of growth could be hilarious. I can picture the montage now. :D Keep us posted on your pilot.

Totally agree with Maurice!