Author: alithewriter

Animation, Television, Writing

How to Write a Pilot

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Ali discusses what goes into writing a TV comedy pilot for this special 100th episode of the podcast! She talks about the two main things any pilot should accomplish as well as the difference between a premise pilot and an episodic pilot, drawing examples from some of her favorites while also talking about how the television landscape has changed over the years.

Here’s the article Ali mentions at the beginning of the episode: Good Place Creator Michael Schur on What We Lose When TV Gets Shorter.

TV Pilots

Animation, Movie, Short Story

Inside Out + “An Emotional First Date”

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Ali discusses the brilliant Pixar movie, Inside Out, directed by Pete Docter, praising the imaginative concept and emotional storytelling that make it one of the best Pixar films. Afterward, she shares an Inside Out story she wrote called “An Emotional First Date.”

Inside Out
Movie

Superbad

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Ali discusses the hilarious movie, Superbad, written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, sharing her favorite lines and her appreciation for the sweet moments that capture the genuine yet changing friendship between the two main characters.

Superbad
Animation, Movie

Hercules

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Ali discusses the Disney movie, Hercules, praising the stellar soundtrack and strong character arcs, all the while reminiscing about seeing the film in theaters and watching it repeatedly with her siblings on VHS.

Hercules and Meg
Television

Kenan & Kel

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Ali discusses the hit ’90s Nickelodeon sitcom, Kenan & Kel, created by Kim Bass and starring Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell. She reminisces about watching the show as a kid on the SNICK lineup each week, sharing clips from some of her favorite episodes that showcase the silly storylines and iconic lines that anyone who grew up with this show can still quote to this day. Aw, here it goes!

Kenan & Kel

Music, Television

Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist

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Ali discusses the musical dramedy series, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, created by Austin Winsberg. She shares how it captivated her from the start, praising the show’s moving themes, beautiful choreography and talented cast while sharing her favorite moments of empathy and character growth throughout the first season.

Here’s the article Ali talks about at the beginning of the episode: Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist creator reveals the emotional true story behind NBC’s musical drama.

Recommended videos to check out/revisit:

Learn more about PSP by visiting psp.org.

Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist
Television

Schitt’s Creek

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Ali discusses the wonderful show, Schitt’s Creek, created by Dan Levy and Eugene Levy, praising the series for its realistic character growth while highlighting its perfect blend of heart and humor as she shares her favorite hilarious moments and emotional scenes that make this show the epitome of love and joy.

Schitt’s Creek

Animation, Movies

Shrek + Shrek 2

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Ali discusses the breakout hit DreamWorks movie, Shrek, and her personal favorite film of the franchise, Shrek 2, recounting the irreverent humor, sweet moments and timeless themes all wrapped up in a fun fairy tale universe.

Shrek and Shrek 2