Creating a successful spin-off is one of the most challenging yet rewarding endeavours in TV. It’s an intricate process that requires balancing reverence for the original material with the need to create something distinct and exciting. A great spin-off captures the essence of its predecessor, giving fans what they love while venturing into uncharted narrative territories to stand confidently as its own creation.
At its heart, the art of the spin-off lies in the writing process. Writers must carefully walk the line between continuity and innovation, crafting narratives that honor the legacy of the original while introducing new characters, themes, and settings that feel fresh and engaging. This often starts with reimagining the story world, exploring corners of the universe left untouched, and finding creative ways to deepen the mythology without losing the spirit of the original.
A critical element in this process is world-building. The setting of a spin-off is not merely a backdrop; it becomes a key storytelling device. A thoughtfully chosen location can shape the tone of the series, influence character behaviors, and provide fertile ground for new storylines. Writers need to dive deep into the details - considering how the environment, culture, and atmosphere of the new setting can inform the narrative and set the spin-off apart.
Mastering Episodic Structure
A spin-off must engage audiences week after week while contributing to an overarching narrative. Balancing episodic self-containment with serialized storytelling requires meticulous planning and collaboration within the writer’s room.
Building a Unique Story World
A spin-off thrives on its ability to create a new world that feels rich, authentic, and alive. Every detail, from the physical environment to the cultural nuances, must be carefully considered to give the series its own identity while remaining connected to the original.
Leaning Into Legacy
While it’s essential to bring something new to the table, a spin-off should also honour the elements that made the original beloved. This could include thematic through-lines, tonal consistency, or subtle nods to the characters and stories that came before.
Innovating With Character and Theme
New characters are often the heart of a spin-off, providing opportunities to explore fresh dynamics and perspectives. Writers should aim to create characters that are relatable and distinct, allowing them to anchor the new series while complementing the world of the original.
When done well, a spin-off offers the best of both worlds: the nostalgia and familiarity of a much-loved series combined with the thrill of discovery. It’s a chance to deepen the connection with loyal fans while inviting new viewers to step into a universe that feels both familiar and refreshingly different. In the ever-evolving world of television, the spin-off is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling—breathing new life into established worlds while paving the way for bold, creative visions.
MASTERCLASS: Return To Paradise - Creating A Spin-Off
In this special online session, seasoned TV writer Peter Mattessi will talk to us about the process he and his creative team went through to create the ABC’s highly successful Return To Paradise series (available to watch now on ABC iView!).
How did they retain the key ingredients of the original UK show while creating something fresh and new for Aussie audiences? Peter will share his invaluable advice and insights on writing absorbing murder mysteries, developing authentic characters, and using location to enrich storytelling.
Whether you’re curious about writing crime dramas or creating engaging episodic TV, this masterclass will be packed with practical tools and approaches you can use to develop your own scripted TV projects
About the Speaker:
Screenwriter and Executive Producer Peter Mattessi is currently the President of the Australian Writers’ Guild (AWG). He recently co-created and executive produced Return to Paradise, the Australian spin-off of the global hit series Death in Paradise, which premiered on the ABC and BBC One in 2024 - it’s currently available on ABC iView.
His work is well-known and loved by Australian audiences, and includes The Heights, Ms Fishers’ Modern Murder Mysteries (as co-executive producer) and Neighbours. In the UK, Mattessi served on the EastEnders core writing team for over ten years. He has represented Victoria on the National Executive Council of the Guild. He also sat on the Australian Writers’ Guild Authorship Collecting Society (AWGACS) Board until 2023 and has been part of the leadership team ensuring the payment of royalties to Australian and New Zealand screenwriters. He holds a law degree from The University of Melbourne.
Thursday, 12 Dec 2024, 07:00 pm – 8.00 pm AEDT
Tickets are still available! Register here.
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