Here are the key features:
* Format: It's formatted differently from a stage play, using specific conventions to guide production.
* Visual: Teleplays are designed to be seen, focusing on visual elements like camera angles, scene descriptions, and character movement.
* Sound: They incorporate audio aspects like dialogue, sound effects, and music.
* Specific to Television: They cater to the unique limitations and strengths of the television medium, such as screen size, commercial breaks, and episode structure.
Key Elements of a Teleplay:
* Scene Headings: These indicate the location and time of the scene.
* Dialogue: The words spoken by the characters.
* Character Actions: Descriptions of what characters do and how they move.
* Camera Directions: Instructions for the cameraperson, such as "CLOSE UP" or "WIDE SHOT".
* Visual Descriptions: Detailed descriptions of sets, costumes, and other visual elements.
* Sound Effects and Music: Instructions for sound effects and music cues.
Differences from Screenplays:
* Episode Structure: Teleplays are often written within a larger narrative arc, with each episode contributing to a bigger story.
* Commercial Breaks: Teleplays have to factor in commercial breaks, with cliffhangers or dramatic moments strategically placed.
* Broadcast Time: Teleplays are written for specific time slots, which affects their length and pacing.
Examples of Teleplays:
* Episodes of your favorite TV shows (like "Friends", "The Office", or "Game of Thrones")
* Sitcoms
* Dramas
* Reality TV shows (often have a more flexible script structure)
Understanding teleplays is crucial for anyone interested in writing for television or analyzing its storytelling techniques.