Non-Book Books

[Falls Apart]

IMO, books tend to have more substance than movies, comics, TV shows, etc. However, every now and then, you'll run into a non-book piece of media that really is just as good as a book. If my plots and character development were like Babylon 5's, my dialogue like Firefly's, my suspense like Death Note's, and my social commentary as good as Calvin & Hobbes, I would be one very, very happy author.

Any examples you'd like to share?

[JustAnotherJen]

Ooh, I totally agree with you about Firefly! I wish I could write dialogue like that! And, hmmm... I'd love to watch Nathan Fillion read that dialogue. The only other thing that comes to mind for me is The West Wing, specifically the first four seasons when Aaron Sorkin was still a part of it. I love the characters and the depth they have, as well as the dynamics between them. I also love the pacing - something I struggle with on paper. And the dialogue is really great.

I think this is a great question. I look forward to seeing what others have to add to the list.

[Watcher55]

IMO, books tend to have more substance than movies, comics, TV shows, etc. However, every now and then, you'll run into a non-book piece of media that really is just as good as a book. If my plots and character development were like Babylon 5's, my dialogue like Firefly's, my suspense like Death Note's, and my social commentary as good as Calvin & Hobbes, I would be one very, very happy author.

Any examples you'd like to share?

Had you not opened with them, B5 and Firefly would have been at the top of my list for the same reasons. This one might surprise you, but "Red Barchetta" and "2112" by Rush for their stark symbolism and intensity.

[dios4vida]

I completely agree with B5. Totally the best sci-fi show ever.

I'd love to have a depth of cast like Eureka. Everyone has a specific role to play that only they can fill - they all compliment but contrast each other perfectly. I'd wish for the mood of Chuck, which is light-hearted and funny and full of action all at the same time. And I'd love to have the geeky appeal of The Big Bang Theory. If you're a geek you can't help but relate to the guys, but you're a bit embarassed that you relate to them, but you're so happy that someone else does the same kind of thing you do.