Introduction to TV Drama: Blog tasks

 Use our Media Factsheet archive on the M: drive Media Shared (M:\Resources\A Level\Media Factsheets) or on Google Drive here (you'll need your Greenford Google login) to find Media Factsheet #164 on Television Serial Drama. 

Read the whole of Factsheet and answer the following questions to show your comprehensive knowledge of the television drama genre:

1) What is serial television drama? Write your own definition.

A television drama serial tells a single continuous story across multiple episodes, while a drama series features self-contained episodes or ongoing subplots.

2) List five of the TV dramas discussed in the history of the genre on page 1 of the factsheet. How has the genre evolved over time?

ABC’s The Avengers (1961-1969)  and Danger Man (1962-1968) 

The Sweeney (1975-1978) and Minder (1979 – 1994),

Starsky and Hutch (1975-1979)

A-Team (1983-1987),

Hill Street Blues (1981-1987)

3) List the sub-genres of TV drama featured in the factsheet. Come up with your own example of an existing TV drama to fit each category.

Police Procedural (crime):CSI and Law & Order franchises, Criminal Minds and Luther.    my example is SUITS 

4) Why is setting so important for TV drama?

Setting is important in serial dramas because it provides a stable foundation for storytelling, allowing characters and narratives to evolve while maintaining continuity. A strong setting, like a police station or hospital, creates familiarity for viewers, supports long-term storytelling, and enables cast changes without disrupting the show’s structure. It also reinforces themes, builds atmosphere, and enhances audience immersion.

5) How do TV dramas typically use character? What audience pleasures can be linked to character in TV drama? (Hint: Uses & Gratifications theory!)

TV dramas use familiar and evolving characters to keep stories engaging, with diverse representation reflecting society. According to Uses & Gratifications Theory, audiences enjoy characters through relatability (personal identity), discussion (social interaction), entertainment (escapism), and insight (learning).

6) What is a multi-strand narrative? Give an example of a TV drama that features a multi-strand narrative.

7) What is a cold opening?

They employ a teaser at the beginning to hook the audience and keep them watching. This is also referred to as a cold opening to generate enigma or intrigue before the title sequence or first commercial break (which in the US are frequent).

8) How can Todorov's theory of equilibrium be applied to TV drama serials?

Todorov’s theory of equilibrium applies to TV drama serials by following a cycle: a stable start (equilibrium), a conflict that disrupts it (disruption), characters recognizing and responding to it (recognition and repair), and a resolution that creates a new balance (new equilibrium). This structure keeps viewers engaged as the cycle repeats across episodes or seasons.

9) What is the typical form for TV dramas and how are the programmes typically distributed to an audience?

TV dramas typically follow an episodic structure with recurring characters and ongoing storylines. They are distributed through broadcasting on TV channels, streaming platforms for on-demand viewing, and cable or satellite networks, offering flexible viewing options.

10) How have subscription channels (such as HBO) and streaming services (such as Netflix and Amazon Prime) changed the form and content of TV dramas?

Subscription channels and streaming services have changed TV dramas by offering creative freedom, higher production values, binge-watching culture, diverse content, and flexible storytelling, leading to more innovative, inclusive, and immersive shows.

11) Choose a TV drama and do your own analysis of it using the SETTING / CHARACTERS / NARRATIVE / FORM headings as featured on page 3 of the factsheet.

Setting: Suits is set in a New York law firm, with a focus on office spaces and legal battles.

Characters: The main characters include Harvey Specter, a confident lawyer, and Mike Ross, a brilliant but unlicensed lawyer, alongside other dynamic firm members.

Narrative: The show mixes episodic legal cases with ongoing character arcs about power struggles, personal growth, and Mike’s secret.

Form: The show follows a procedural format with serialised storylines, airing episodes of around 42 minutes on USA Network.

12) How might the TV drama genre evolve in future?

The future of TV drama is expected to see high-budget, complex narratives with big-name actors, more international content, and a shift towards short-form, niche dramas due to streaming services. There may be a rise in interactivity and distinctive programming from the BBC, with a focus on risk-taking genres. Despite these changes, the demand for serialized dramas will likely continue.

A/A* extension task: TV Drama v Film

Building on question 12 above, read this fascinating extended article comparing TV drama to film. It will also help to bridge the gap between our work on the film industry and our new topic of TV drama. Where do you stand on the debate? Is TV drama the key medium of storytelling or will cinema always be king?

Storytelling has changed a lot over the years, but today, two main ways to tell stories really shine: TV dramas and movies. Both have grown and changed, with TV shows becoming more respected and films keeping their larger-than-life appeal. While some people think that TV is now the best way to tell stories, others feel that movies will always be the top choice. In truth, both have special qualities that make them important in today’s storytelling.TV drama is more influential than ever, offering richer character development and longer, more detailed plots. Unlike movies, which usually last just a couple of hours, TV series can tell their stories over many episodes. This gives room for deep character journeys, surprising twists, and stronger emotional connections with viewers. Series like Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, and The Handmaid’s Tale show how TV can tackle themes in ways that movies can’t. Plus, streaming services like Netflix, HBO, and Disney+ have made it easier for people to watch shows whenever they want.On the other hand, cinema still has a special role in storytelling. Movies create an amazing big-screen experience that TV can’t match. The visuals, style, and creativity of films like Inception, The Godfather, and Parasite leave a lasting impression. Watching a movie in a theater brings people together, allowing them to share feelings, which makes the experience even more powerful. Also, movies tell complete, impactful stories in a shorter time, which can help avoid the slow pacing that sometimes happens with TV shows.In the end, both TV and cinema have their advantages. TV is great for deep storytelling and character development, while movies excel in visual and emotional narratives. Instead of one taking over the other, they can exist together, each playing a unique role in entertainment. Whether a person prefers TV or films really comes down to how they enjoy their stories—over a long period or in one memorable sitting.