I. The Essentials - What to Include
While specific contents can vary based on genre and complexity, here's a standard structure:
* Cover Page:
* Show Title
* Creator(s)
* Contact Information (Agent/Manager too, if applicable)
* Date (Optional, but useful for revisions)
* Logline: (1-2 sentences)
* A concise, captivating summary of the entire show. It should hook the reader and answer "What is this show about?" Focus on character, goal, and obstacle.
* Synopsis/Overview: (1-2 pages)
* Expands on the logline. Gives a more detailed description of the show's core concept, the overall premise, and what viewers can expect.
* Touches upon the main characters, setting, and tone.
* Hints at the show's overall arc or central conflict.
* Series Premise/Concept: (1-2 pages)
* A deep dive into the 'why' and 'how' of your show.
* Explain the underlying themes, the world you're building, and the unique elements that make your show stand out.
* Address the target audience and why they'll connect with the series.
* Characters: (1-2 pages per main character)
* Name: (Obviously)
* Age:
* Occupation:
* Brief Physical Description: (Focus on key defining features)
* Personality: (Use strong adjectives - flawed, driven, cynical, optimistic, etc.)
* Backstory: (Key events that shaped them, family relationships, traumas, etc.)
* Motivations: (What do they want? What drives their actions?)
* Strengths & Weaknesses: (Creates believable and compelling characters)
* Relationships: (How they relate to other characters in the show)
* Character Arc: (How they will evolve and change throughout the series.)
* Visual Inspiration: (Optional - Photos of actors or even regular people that embody the character)
* World Building/Setting: (1-3 pages)
* Location: (Detailed description of the physical setting, its history, and culture.)
* Time Period: (Important for historical shows or sci-fi/fantasy)
* Social & Political Climate: (What are the rules of this world? What are the power structures?)
* Unique Elements: (Anything specific to your world that differentiates it from reality - magic systems, technologies, laws, etc.)
* Visual References: (Photographs, concept art, maps - anything to help visualize the world.)
* Rules: What are the established rules within your world? What happens when those rules are broken?
* Tone & Style: (1 page)
* Describe the overall tone of the show (e.g., dark comedy, suspenseful thriller, heartwarming drama).
* Explain the visual style (e.g., gritty realism, stylized cinematography).
* Reference other shows or films that have a similar tone and style.
* Episode Breakdown/Outline: (1-2 pages per episode)
* Title (Working Title):
* Logline (for this specific episode):
* Synopsis: (A brief summary of the episode's plot.)
* A-Plot: (The main storyline.)
* B-Plot (and C-Plot, if applicable): (Secondary storylines that often tie into the main theme.)
* Key Scenes: (Brief descriptions of the most important scenes in the episode.)
* Character Development: (How the episode advances the character arcs.)
* Season Arc (if applicable): (1-2 pages)
* For serialized shows, outline the overarching plot and character arcs that span the entire season.
* Highlight key events and cliffhangers.
* Potential Future Seasons: (Optional, but shows you've thought ahead)
* Briefly outline potential storylines and character arcs for future seasons.
* This demonstrates the show's longevity and potential for growth.
* Target Audience: (1/2 page)
* Who are you trying to reach? Be specific. Age, gender, interests, viewing habits.
* Why will they watch? What needs is your show fulfilling?
* Comparable Shows: (1/2 page)
* List 2-3 shows that are similar to yours in tone, theme, or target audience.
* Explain how your show is different and unique. (Don't just say it's "like X, but with Y.")
* Creator Statement: (1 page)
* A personal note from you, the creator.
* Explain your passion for the project, what inspired you, and what you hope to achieve with the show.
* This is your chance to connect with the reader on a personal level.
II. Writing the Bible - Key Principles
* Write in a Clear and Concise Style: Avoid jargon and overly flowery language. Get to the point.
* Be Specific: Don't be vague. Use concrete details to bring your show to life.
* Show, Don't Tell: Instead of saying a character is "courageous," show them performing a courageous act.
* Maintain a Consistent Tone: The tone of the bible should reflect the tone of the show.
* Be Passionate: Let your enthusiasm for the project shine through.
* Proofread Carefully: Typos and grammatical errors will make you look unprofessional.
* Get Feedback: Share your bible with trusted friends, writers, or industry professionals and ask for their honest opinions.
III. Additional Tips & Considerations
* Visuals are Your Friend: Incorporate images whenever possible. Photos of actors you envision in the roles, mood boards, concept art, location photos – anything that helps bring your show to life.
* Adapt to Your Genre: A sitcom bible will look different from a sci-fi bible. Focus on the elements that are most important for your specific genre.
* Consider a Teaser Script: A pilot script is usually required, but including a teaser script (the first 5-10 pages of the pilot) can give readers a taste of your writing style and the show's dialogue.
* Digital vs. Physical: A digital bible is generally preferred for easy sharing. However, a beautifully designed physical bible can make a strong impression.
* Updates are Necessary: As your show evolves, update your bible to reflect any changes.
* Protect Your Work: Consider registering your pilot script and bible with the WGA (Writers Guild of America) or the U.S. Copyright Office.
IV. Example Snippets
Let's imagine a show called "Starlight Diner," a comedic drama about a struggling diner in a small town.
* Logline: When a disillusioned chef inherits his grandmother's failing diner, he reluctantly returns to his small town and rediscovers his passion for cooking and the importance of community.
* Character - ANNA (28): The diner's long-time waitress and a local fixture. Anna is fiercely independent, sarcastic, but secretly has a huge heart. She's seen it all in this town and isn't easily impressed. *Backstory:* Grew up in Starlight, never left, and feels both trapped and deeply connected to the town. *Arc:* Starts as wary of the new owner but slowly develops a close friendship with him, challenging him to embrace the town's quirks. *Visual Inspiration:* [Photo of an actress with a slightly cynical, yet kind, face]
* Episode 1 - "The Grand Reopening": *Logline:* Jake, the reluctant new owner, struggles to reopen the diner after his grandmother's passing, facing skeptical locals, broken equipment, and his own self-doubt. *A-Plot:* Jake tries to recreate his grandmother's famous apple pie recipe but fails miserably. *B-Plot:* Anna clashes with Jake over his changes to the menu, leading to a heated debate about tradition vs. innovation.
In Conclusion
Creating a comprehensive and well-written TV show bible is a significant undertaking, but it's an essential step in bringing your vision to life. It demonstrates your commitment to the project, helps you clarify your own ideas, and provides a valuable tool for selling your show and guiding its production. Good luck!