A few series have managed a cancellation deal where they get enough notice to close out the plotlines. Not ideal, but it's something and I think a good compromise.
Personally, I think it should be a standard, iron-clad part of every TV show contract that if the network cancels a show on a cliffhanger, they have to fund one more episode to tie up the loose ends. Yes, it would be rushed and not as satisfying as a real conclusion, but it would be better than nothing. It would also help the DVD sales to have an actual ending to the series.
Also, it's important to note the differences between the studio and the network. The network is just renting the show. It's the studio who's actually in-charge of how many episodes get made. Those are typically connected because once the network doesn't want to pay for more episodes, the studio can't afford to go on. But there are many new options available today, including crowdfunding.
I believe that if Firefly happened today, it would continue with new episodes in some form after the network cancelled it. Futurama and Veronica Mars have demonstrated what a devoted fanbase can accomplish.
It's funny, back in 2006 or so, before crowdfunding really became a mainstream thing, I actually suggested this as a way to fund the proposed two Firefly sequels. At the time I was told that this would never work because there's no way they could accept money from people without them expecting to have some control over the project. I forget where I posted it, but I have a vague memory that I was told this by someone connected to the show, although I could be wrong about that. It's been a decade and my memory might be playing tricks on me.
This is a THREADED message board. Please reply to the proper post!
reply
share