Is it how long the pilot is or what you do with it?

[Write Or Wrong]

Thanks, everybody.  As always, I appreciate the helpful answers.  From what I hear, it sounds like the networks aren't optioning as many pilots as they used to.  The WGA strike, slipping ratings, the invasion of reality shows and the generally lackluster economy are all getting blamed. 

But I simply love this idea, and to me it sounds perfectly suited for our current emotional climate.  So here I go!

-- Mike

[seansshack]

I have only dipped by toes in the waters of tv writing.

But from what I've been told a single episode requires 45 pages. So for a typical pilot (with commercials) but a 90 pager.

If you are trying to pitch it. a pilot alone won't be enough. You'll need a few added episodes to back it up (at 45 pages(ish) a shot).

I had a guy request one for a WWII series from me. Basically gave me a week to "punch out" 4 episodes. To which I replied that is two feature films. Oh and the stories had to be different but connected by events.

Hence I've only dipped my toes.

Give yourself time and breathing space. Plan it beyond the initial pilot and you should be fine.

[Shindig]

Yeah, if the pilot gets the thumbs up, write the rest of it.  At which point it'll probably be more commonly known as Episode 1.

[LloJo]

Write for a two hour pilot, but have a point midway where the story could end, with minimal rewriting.

[Write Or Wrong]

I am venturing into what is for me uncharted waters...the television pilot.  Specifically, I'm thinking of an idea for a sci-fi show.

Now, I've read my share of t.v. scripts and understand the basics -- but what exactly is considered the proper length for a pilot?  This show would have an hour long format, so say 45 pages for one (regular) episode.  However, many pilots I've seen have run two hours.  So is it correct to write a longer script for the pilot?