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What is the difference between a “spec script” and a “spec pilot”? (TV Writing 101)

What is the difference between a “spec script” and a “spec pilot”? (TV Writing 101)

I’ve been getting a few questions relating to “what is a spec script”, so here goes…

In its basic definition, a “spec script” is a screenplay written on “speculation” (that someone out there will want it). In other words, a script written out of the volition of its writer—without any kind of deal or monetary compensation in place.

Although similarly uncompensated, a spec script in television specifically refers to a “sample episode“. The goal of the TV spec script is to showcase your writing abilities.

If you are an aspiring drama writer, then you might write (for example) a Mad Men spec script. Your goal will therefore be to show that:
a) you can write a compelling, novel story; and
b) you can write within the Mad Men parameters, i.e. mimic an episode of the show.
That means that you need to write with the same format/structure as the show (e.g. four acts), and also be able to channel the showrunner’s (Matthew Weiner’s) “voice”.

In recent years, spec pilots have overtaken spec scripts in terms of what executives and showrunners want to read for new hires. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write sample episode spec scripts!
Even outside of the TV writing fellowships, they are amazing exercises. In fact, your TV writing career will primarily be about your ability to write for a showrunner.

You can learn more about the “dos and donts” of writing TV spec scripts by checking: “Ten Spec Writing Rules (and why you should care)”

Spec pilots are a sub-division of spec scripts. Much like their counterparts, they are written unsolicited. They are here, once again, to show that you can write. This time though, with you own original well-executed ideas.

Note that spec pilot scripts should not be written in the hopes of getting produced. There’s only been a handful of TV spec pilots being made. One of those famously being Matthew Weiner’s Mad Men. He was already established as a TV writer when he AMC bought it. He had used his Mad Men spec pilot as a writing sample to get on The Sopranos. And now others spec his show. The circle is complete.

Is it too late to spec? (Readers’ Mail)

Is it too late to spec? (Readers’ Mail)

We’ll do short and sweet on this week’s Readers’ Mail as Eavvon asks:

You mentioned [with asterisks] that some 1st season shows wouldn’t be accepting specs. Specifically, Blackish… However, I’m developing a spec for next season. Am I too late? […] I spoke directly to [an agency] and they said I should send something to them. Not that it will guarantee anything. So maybe that’s the path I go down…or maybe I just keep hustling for the next few months and then try to apply to a fellowship program next year?

The “asterisks” in my Drama and Comedy Spec Script lists specifically relate to the WB Writing Fellowship/Program. They identify shows WB does not accept (or rather did not—their deadline was end of May).

To answer your other questions—
I’m actually in the midst of writing a large post where I’ll tackle most of your Qs, but the gist is: don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
There isn’t “one path”, rather multiple ones that hopefully converge into you breaking (and a career).
If a known agency is open to reading your material—go for it! It’s actually fairly rare for agents to be open to reading new writers (without any recommendation) so you should pursue every opportunity (assuming you’re ready for them).

It is also never too late to write specs. In fact, the more you write, the better off you are. If anything, they’re great samples and training. One could even say that your job as a staff writer will be, basically, to write specs (albeit more professionally).
If you’re worried about being “out of date” when next season rolls around, don’t be. Even if your show is heavily serialized (which Blackish isn’t), your number one worry should always be to craft a compelling, unique spec. Not keep up to date with the various narrative developments from the live show.

I’d say hone your spec(s), and when you have an awesome one ready, send it out. Maybe they’ll love it and rep you. Either way, it will only help you when applying to the fellowships next year.

Good luck with everything!

—

If you (who’s reading this) have a question you’d like an answer to, feel free to contact me about it.

Write on.


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James Gunn on Screenwriting

“There’s somebody out there who’s writing harder than you are. Write harder than that person.” – James Gunn

Over a decade ago, Lloyd Kaufman published the “Make Your Own Damn Movie” DVD set. Although I can’t vouch for the product’s quality, it does feature a couple of interesting interviews. This is one of them.

In this semi-impromptu interview before he became a big-time Marvel director, Guardians of the Galaxy‘s James Gunn discusses his entry into the screenwriting business, building a reader base, taking notes, rewriting, getting an agent, script formatting, structure/acts, index cards, endings, adaptations, blockbusters, and production.

He even admits screenwriters don’t make the big bucks!