Series bible

Definition

A series bible is a comprehensive document that outlines the key elements of a television show, including character descriptions, story arcs, themes, and the overall vision of the series. It serves as a blueprint for the creative team, ensuring consistency and clarity throughout the production process. This document is particularly important in single-camera television as it helps maintain the unique style and narrative structure that defines episodic and serialized storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A series bible is essential for both new and existing shows as it provides a reference for writers and directors, ensuring continuity in storytelling and character development.
2. In single-camera television, where episodes can be more visually stylized and narratively complex, a well-crafted series bible helps guide the production team in achieving a cohesive vision.
3. The series bible often includes detailed information about the show's setting, tone, and intended audience, which helps in shaping marketing strategies and promotional materials.
4. While primarily used by writers and directors, a series bible can also serve as a valuable tool for actors to understand their roles and relationships within the broader narrative.
5. The creation of a series bible can be an iterative process, evolving alongside the development of the show as new ideas emerge and characters are fleshed out.

Review Questions

• How does a series bible contribute to character consistency throughout a television show?
  • A series bible lays out detailed character descriptions and their arcs, providing essential information about their motivations, relationships, and growth. This ensures that writers portray characters consistently across episodes while allowing room for development. By having this resource, the creative team can avoid contradictions and maintain a clear understanding of each character's journey.
• Discuss how a series bible aids in the production process of single-camera television shows compared to multi-camera formats.
  • In single-camera television, where storytelling can be more nuanced and visually driven, a series bible serves as a crucial guide for maintaining narrative coherence and stylistic consistency. It provides specific guidelines on visual storytelling elements, pacing, and character interactions that are vital for creating an engaging viewing experience. This contrasts with multi-camera formats, which often rely on live audience feedback and have a more rigid structure.
• Evaluate the significance of updating a series bible during the lifespan of a television show and its impact on storytelling.
  • Updating a series bible is vital for adapting to new narrative directions, character developments, or shifts in audience engagement. As a show evolves, incorporating feedback and new ideas into the series bible ensures that it remains relevant and reflective of the current storytelling landscape. This practice not only helps maintain continuity but also encourages creativity within the writing team, ultimately enhancing the show's depth and richness while responding to viewer expectations.

Related terms

Character Arc: The transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a story, highlighting their development and changes in response to events.

Pilot Episode: The first episode of a series that introduces characters, sets up the premise, and establishes the tone and direction of the show.

Showrunner: The person responsible for overseeing the creative aspects of a television series, often acting as the head writer and making key decisions regarding the show's direction.