1) Choose at least three TV dramas similar to your concept and watch at least one scene from each. Make bullet-point notes on everything you watch, commenting on camerawork, editing, sound and mise-en-scene.
2) Write a script for your TV drama scene. You'll find guidance for writing a script in the BBC Writers' Room (click on the Script Library to read real examples of professional TV scripts). Lay it out like a real script (see right) - it will add a level of professionalism to your production.
Script
3) Write a shot list containing EVERY shot you plan to film AND additional shots to create flexibility when editing. These additional shots are often close-ups, cutaways, alternative angles or similar. I advise using a simple table on Microsoft Word to set out your shot list - you can find an example here.
5) Plan a shooting schedule that will ensure everything is filmed by the deadline. Include when, where, who is required and what shots you will complete at each time/location.
Gotham - https://youtu.be/_u-gJ4Jbhzs
A variety of camera shots such as close-up, long shots etc. in order to show the viewers the current setting in order to paint a picture but to also show the expressions of the characters. This shows the gravity of the current situation in that particular scene. Pacing follows the speaker but also switches to the reactions of the actors, allowing a better build up of the scene. The scene is able to also appear more fluid as scenes at match on action is used as well as shot reverse shot. Non-diegetic music playing - "Ominous" music builds up tension within the scene, especially when Bruce is dragged into the back room. Diegetic sound (dialogue) between Bruce, Silver and the "villain" - provides context about the current scene and creates a fearful atmosphere, particularly when Bruce and Silver scream at the end. Low-key lighting is used to present the setting as a dark room, possibly abandoned. The costumes worn (suits) can be used to show the class that each character may be from or allegiances to a particular character. Props such as the knife can be used as action codes to show that something is going to happen as it is used to threaten Bruce and Silver.
Luther - https://youtu.be/-AB_znetvII
The use of close-ups on Alice's and Luther's faces allow the show to convey the intensity of the scene as well as the psychological depth of the characters and the impact they have on each other. The way that scene is edited allows dialogue to flow through smoothly as Alice and Luther converse with each other. It creates a continuity between the texts and prevents any breaks in the flow of the scene. The lack of non-diegetic sound until the end allows the viewer to be gripped to every word that is spoken within that scene as Luther is known to be a psychological drama and this allows us to get into that aspect of it. The attire that is worn by Luther could be identified as a generic detective outfit with the trench coat and suit, which could possibly show class or prestige as a detective.
Dexter - https://youtu.be/GbrNPFtA90U
Medium and wide shots are used to show the overall expression of the characters from Deb's shock at the scene to Dexter's disbelief in his own work. It also helps us get a sense of a setting and allows us to see the grimness of the scene. The way the scene is edited allows a continuous flow of dialogue between the two characters, leaving the tension intact. The use of contrapuntal sound adds to the errieness of the scene as we bare witness to Dexter next to a seran wrapped body. The non-diegetic music builds to this sense of erriness as Deb finds out her friend is a serial killer for "Justice". Deb is seen wearing a generic detective suit whilst holding a gun which reinforces her role as a stereotypical detective. Dexter is seen standing next to a table covered in seran wrap and duck tape which may link to his need to retain all evidence (forensic background)
2) Write a script for your TV drama scene. You'll find guidance for writing a script in the BBC Writers' Room (click on the Script Library to read real examples of professional TV scripts). Lay it out like a real script (see right) - it will add a level of professionalism to your production.
Script
3) Write a shot list containing EVERY shot you plan to film AND additional shots to create flexibility when editing. These additional shots are often close-ups, cutaways, alternative angles or similar. I advise using a simple table on Microsoft Word to set out your shot list - you can find an example here.
My Shot List for Shadowed Intentions
4) Plan your mise-en-scene: what iconography are you including to ensure your audience understands the genre? Plan your cast, costume, make-up, props, lighting and setting. For this preliminary task, us just one location to keep it simple.
4) Plan your mise-en-scene: what iconography are you including to ensure your audience understands the genre? Plan your cast, costume, make-up, props, lighting and setting. For this preliminary task, us just one location to keep it simple.
Costume - I plan on wearing "semi-suit" consisting of a while shirt, possibly a tie and trousers as well as smart casual shoes. I will use low-key lighting and also tint the light yellow to create a different atmosphere to the likes of a low budget office area which will be an accurate representation of the overall city that Shadowed Intentions takes place. I plan on placing Detective Pierce in front of a bulletin board covered in pictures of clues or in front of his desk covered in clues in order to show commitment to the case. I also plan on placing Pierce in the "seat of superiority" as I refer to it as to show that Pierce will be the one leading the conversation. I don't plan on using any makeup however I do hope to be able to use a fake realistic beard in order to appear older to which I could pass off as an older detective. I am going to use a fake gun and handcuffs as well as a police badge in order to add to the authenticity of Pierce's role as a detective. The setting will take place within Pierce's residence, in particular his office where he keeps all clues linking to the case that sets Shadowed Intentions in motion.
5) Plan a shooting schedule that will ensure everything is filmed by the deadline. Include when, where, who is required and what shots you will complete at each time/location.
Shooting Schedule (Subject to change)
22nd October Postponed due to sickness
Recorded on the 30th October
Actors: Bradley, Frankly
Editing: Bradley
Location: F Block Drama Room
6) Link
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