when you see a two episode tv special is it all filmed @ same time n split up in the editing studio?

Question

i mean as in end of one season and it ends on a to be contuied cliffhanger etc
then you have to wait 6 months to the next season premiere. is it all as one and the network make you wait,and why? cos if your a fan you would watch next episode anyway...........

Answer 1

I can only speak for sit-coms, but generally, no. They are shot one at a time. This can also be a bit of a hassle if the premiere starts off with a "previously, on..." (insert show title), and then leaps into the premiere. A person called a script supervisor works diligently with the editor, to make match as closely as possible, all the departments - i.e. the props, the wardrobe, the hair styles, the body positions, etc. Cliff-hangers are generally designed to keep you interested and wanting to watch the season premiere after a long summer of repeats, and are often the highest rated show of the season. Additionally, many shows don't know if they will be renewed for another season, so keeping the hype going, is always in their favor. Hope I was helpful.

Answer 2

It depends on the series, and the complexity of the show. On a simple set and 3-camera show on a soundstage, they might write a two-part cliffhanger with two episodes, and then wait to film the second until the beginning of production in the next season. It also depends on whether it is an independent production company, or one owned by the network.

On a filmed show, however, with lots of sets and exteriors and location shooting live, it is more economical to film all the action and location shots at the same time, and edit them into two episodes, and show the first installment at the end of one season, and the next installment at the beginning of the next season. This is because where there is location shooting, etc., it is common to shoot scenes out of sequence, and then edit them into the finished episodes in the editing booth. You don't have to transport a hundred members of the cast and crew, stunt men, and location experts, back to the same location six months later, and match the continuity of all of the same costumes, same autos, same light and weather, etc. etc.

Answer 3

From Season to Season the answer would be NO. The Season Finale will be filmed and then no more filming will take place for about 6 months, at which time the cast will reassemble for the filming of the new Season Premiere! You can always tell by the changes in certain character's hair style.