The first episode of a television show is called a “pilot” because it serves as a test run, a crucial flight to determine whether the proposed series can successfully take off and soar. Just as a pilot in aviation navigates an aircraft for the first time, the pilot episode aims to navigate the complex terrain of audience reception, network approval, and ultimately, series viability.
The Origin Story: A Brief History
The term “pilot” comes directly from the early days of television and radio broadcasting. Like a pilot episode testing the waters, the broadcast’s acceptance decided its success or failure. In radio, it’s often forgotten as radio dramas are less about a narrative pilot testing the show out, more about being a stand alone performance. As broadcasting evolved, the practice of creating a sample episode to secure funding and a full series order became standard. The name stuck, even as the process became increasingly sophisticated and complex.
The Pilot’s Purpose: More Than Just a First Episode
The pilot episode serves several critical purposes:
- Proof of Concept: It demonstrates the show’s potential to executives and provides a tangible representation of the creators’ vision. This is crucial for securing funding and a series order.
- Character Introduction: The pilot introduces the main characters, their personalities, relationships, and the overall tone of the show.
- Setting the Stage: It establishes the world in which the series will take place, the core conflicts, and the ongoing storylines.
- Audience Engagement: The pilot aims to hook viewers and convince them to invest their time in the series. A strong pilot is captivating and leaves the audience wanting more.
- Testing the Waters: It helps assess audience reaction and identify any potential weaknesses or areas for improvement before the series is fully produced.
The Making of a Pilot: A High-Stakes Gamble
Producing a pilot is a significant financial investment. Networks and studios spend considerable resources on casting, writing, directing, and production, knowing that the vast majority of pilots never make it to air. The pilot episode is essentially a high-stakes gamble, with the potential for a huge payoff if the show succeeds, or a complete loss if it fails. The process usually involves multiple drafts of the script, extensive casting auditions, and a rigorous post-production process.
The Role of the Network
The network plays a crucial role in the pilot process. Network executives provide feedback on the script, casting choices, and overall direction of the pilot. They ultimately decide whether to order a full series based on the pilot’s performance. Networks are looking for shows that appeal to their target audience, fit their programming strategy, and have the potential to generate significant revenue.
The Role of the Showrunner
The showrunner, the creative head of the show, is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the pilot’s production. The showrunner works closely with the writers, directors, and actors to ensure that the pilot accurately reflects their vision for the series. They are the driving force behind the show and are responsible for its overall success.
The Evolution of the Pilot: From Traditional Broadcast to Streaming
The rise of streaming services has changed the landscape of television and has also impacted the role of the pilot. Streaming platforms are more willing to take risks on new shows and are less reliant on traditional pilot screenings. While pilot episodes are still produced, some streaming services are increasingly opting to order entire seasons of shows without seeing a pilot first. This allows for more creative freedom and experimentation but also increases the risk of producing a show that doesn’t resonate with viewers.
Streaming and Pilot Production
While streamers like Netflix often bypass the traditional pilot phase, the fundamental purpose of a pilot remains the same: to introduce the show’s world, characters, and story in an engaging way. Some argue that a pilot-less model allows for faster production and greater creative risks, others suggest that the pilot process, when thoughtfully executed, provides valuable data and helps ensure the show’s success.
Pilot Failures and Successes: Learning from the Past
Not all pilots are created equal. Some pilots are incredibly successful, leading to long-running and beloved series. Others fail to impress audiences or network executives and never see the light of day.
Examples of Successful Pilots
- “Seinfeld”: The original pilot was poorly received, but after some revisions, it became a cultural phenomenon.
- “Lost”: The elaborate and mysterious pilot episode hooked viewers and set the stage for the show’s complex mythology.
- “Game of Thrones”: Although the first pilot had to be significantly reworked, it ultimately captured the essence of George R.R. Martin’s fantasy world and launched one of the most successful television series of all time.
Examples of Unsuccessful Pilots
Countless pilots are made and never aired, and the reasons vary considerably. However, a common issue is when the pilot fails to establish the central concept or the characters effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pilot Episodes
FAQ 1: What happens if a pilot is not picked up?
If a pilot episode is not picked up by a network or streaming service, it is essentially shelved. The creators can try to sell the show to another network, but it is more likely that the project will be abandoned.
FAQ 2: How much does it cost to make a pilot episode?
The cost of a pilot can range from a few hundred thousand dollars to tens of millions of dollars, depending on the scope, the cast, and the production values. High-budget dramas and comedies typically require more expensive pilots.
FAQ 3: Is a pilot episode always the first episode aired?
Not always. Sometimes, networks may choose to air a different episode first, especially if they feel that the pilot is not the strongest introduction to the series. However, the pilot episode is almost always part of the first season and will air eventually.
FAQ 4: What makes a good pilot episode?
A good pilot episode needs to be engaging, well-written, well-acted, and visually appealing. It should introduce the characters and the world, establish the central conflicts, and leave the audience wanting more. Above all, a pilot should effectively demonstrate the potential of the series.
FAQ 5: How long is a typical pilot episode?
Pilot episodes are usually the same length as regular episodes of the show. This can range from 22 minutes for a comedy to 45 minutes for a drama.
FAQ 6: Who decides whether a pilot gets picked up?
Network executives and streaming service decision-makers are responsible for deciding whether a pilot episode gets picked up. These individuals review feedback, analyse potential target audiences, and determine the potential profitability of the show before making their decision.
FAQ 7: Can a pilot be reworked after it is filmed?
Yes, a pilot can be reworked after it is filmed. Networks and streaming services will sometimes request changes to the script, casting, or editing before giving the show a series order. Reshoots can be expensive, but they may be necessary to improve the show’s chances of success.
FAQ 8: Are all shows required to have a pilot episode?
No, not all shows require a pilot episode. Streaming services, in particular, are increasingly ordering entire seasons of shows without seeing a pilot first. They rely on the reputation of producers and writers, and the marketability of the series concept.
FAQ 9: What is the difference between a pilot and a backdoor pilot?
A backdoor pilot is an episode of an existing series that serves as a pilot for a potential spin-off. It introduces new characters and storylines within the framework of the established show, giving viewers a taste of what the spin-off could be like.
FAQ 10: How does audience feedback affect pilot pickups?
Audience feedback, gathered through test screenings and online surveys, can play a significant role in the decision-making process. Positive audience reactions can increase the likelihood of a pilot being picked up, while negative feedback can lead to revisions or cancellation.
FAQ 11: What is “pilot season”?
“Pilot season” is the period of time, typically in the spring, when television networks evaluate and make decisions about which pilot episodes they will pick up for a full season. This is a crucial time for writers, actors, and producers, as they compete to get their shows on the air.
FAQ 12: Why are some successful shows still scrapped after the pilot?
Even if a pilot is well-received, a show might still be scrapped due to budget constraints, changes in network strategy, or unforeseen circumstances. There are many factors beyond the pilot’s initial success that can influence a show’s fate. Sometimes it is bad timing or an ill fitting concept on a network.