For a serial drama to be effective, you need to have a few basics:
1) Pacing - Telling multiple stories at different speeds will leave the audience satisfied and never viewing an episode as filler. Most modern day attempts at serial dramas/prime time soaps have a limited concept and limited story threads that don't go in a linear direction.
2) Ensembles - You need a strong ensemble or else your show falters. JR wouldn't have been so iconic if he didn't have Bobby/Pam to play off of.. same with Alexis vs Krystle, etc.
3) More episodes - 13 episodes is just not effective to really delve into a story, nor is 22 episodes. 26 to 28 episodes is the sweet spot.
4) Diverse Acting styles - You had Joan Collins going OTT while you had Pamela Bellwood opting for a more subdued acting style. Knots Landing had various different acting approaches by the main women and me, as did early Falcon Crest.
By
Soaplovers ·