statement of intent

My TV crime drama is called 'Urban Shadows.' This thought-provoking series is to be initially broadcasted on Amazon Prime Video, providing wide reach and access to audiences for an immersive and suspenseful narrative experience. The three-minute extract will be judiciously placed as an opening, driving intrigue and setting the tone for the entire series. Additionally, the audience will be left on a cliffhanger, fostering anticipation for subsequent developments. 'Urban Shadows' revolves around former New York gangster, Vinnie Marino, who must navigate the treacherous streets of London, confronting his past while seeking a chance at redemption in a city filled with moral ambiguity and criminal enterprise.

It will be an ambitious TV crime drama that will both challenge and reinforce media stereotypes while adhering to contemporary media contexts. In addition to the brief, one way this would be achieved is through the decision to feature a minimum of four locations relevant to the narrative. For example, the beginning scene would be shot in a council estate, which would converge with gangster/hoodlum generalisations. Furthermore, this would foster a sense of identification among the audience, as a significant portion of the demographic shares a connection to council estates, whether through personal residence or acquaintance. Through the lens of Stuart Hall’s reception theory, I aim to construct a narrative that invites critical audience engagement, emphasising complex character development and nuanced portrayals, such as through a betrayal scene that will happen towards the end of the extract. Consequently, this is an example of one of the disequilibriums established in which Todorov’s narrative theory would also be portrayed within the show due to it beginning with an equilibrium and being broken as the plot advances.

Another way stereotypes would be challenged yet reinforced is through the main protagonist Vinnie. This is due to the fact that he would almost embody the stereotypical gangster figure while also subverting the stereotype, as his weaknesses and vulnerabilities will also be highlighted.

The target audience for the show encompasses a diverse demographic aged 12+ and older youth and adults, resonating with viewers who appreciate character-driven narratives and moral complexities akin to acclaimed series like 'Top Boy' and 'Power.' This demographic will also be subject to audience pleasure such as escapism, information, identification, and entertainment. By immersing viewers within the atmospheric setting of London’s criminal underworld and presenting authentic character experiences, the series aims to fulfil diverse audience needs and pleasures while also retaining a level of relatability. To ensure this level of relatability remains intact, Roland Barthes's intertextuality will also be incorporated by borrowing tropes from other media productions such as the distinctive slang derived from 'Top Boy' or taking inspiration from camera work corresponding to notable crime dramas.

I will employ a variety of camera shots and angles to evoke the familiar elements of a traditional crime drama. This will include establishing shots to set the scene, close-ups to convey characters' emotions, and tracking shots to create movement and tension. Techniques such as handheld camera work and dynamic framing will enhance the gritty realism of the urban landscape, immersing viewers in the atmospheric tone of the series. Through careful cinematography, I aim to create a visually compelling and thematically resonant viewing experience that draws viewers deeper into the world of crime and intrigue that defines 'Urban Shadows.' Additionally, I plan to use both non-diegetic and diegetic sounds to help immerse and draw in the audience. One way I will incorporate non-diegetic sound is through background music that relates to the scene, as well as sound effects such as police sirens.

'TV Insight' will be the name of my TV listings magazine, attracting avid television enthusiasts, especially those passionate about crime dramas like my own. The front cover will prominently feature 'Urban Shadows,' with the main image comprising the protagonist sitting in the middle. This will be a low-angle shot to connote a sense of authority from the protagonist, making audiences want to uncover the truth behind him. Moreover, low-key lighting will be used to help relay the dark and gritty atmosphere of the show. The magazine will feature interviews with the main cast and other exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Through this, audiences would gain an extent of emotional attachment to the actors behind the characters, therefore making viewers more invested in the series. Lastly, in the ever-evolving world of digital convergence, the magazine will promote its social media to further diversify the reach of 'Urban Shadows,' tapping into online communities and engaging with audiences across various platforms.

google docs