pilotode

Pilotode is a term that refers to a preliminary or test version of a television program. It is typically produced to gauge audience reaction and market potential before a full series order is made. Pilot episodes are crucial in the television industry, as they serve as a pitch to networks and streaming services. These early productions are often made with a lower budget than a full series and may feature a different cast or storyline than the eventual series, if one is commissioned. The success of a pilot episode can determine whether a show gets picked up for multiple seasons or is canceled before it even has a chance to air widely. Changes made after a pilot can include script revisions, casting adjustments, and even significant shifts in the show's overall direction based on feedback. The term is also sometimes used more broadly to describe an initial trial of any new project or idea.