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INTERACTIVE TV FORMAT: CRIME SOLVER BANDITS
By Willem Elzenga

GENRE: Mystery
LOGLINE:

Step into the shoes of a detective in Crime Solver Bandits, the thrilling interactive TV show where players crack weekly mysteries through browser-based games, hidden clues, and live broadcasts—blending comedy, crime-solving, and community in a race to uncover the truth and climb the leaderboard.

SYNOPSIS:

TV Format Concept: Crime Solver Bandits

Overview: Crime Solver Bandits is an interactive television format that combines browser-based gaming, immersive storytelling, and live broadcasts. Each week, players become detectives, solving crimes by uncovering clues hidden in a web of daily content—from podcasts and fake websites to video streams and phone calls. The TV show, hosted by the charismatic detective duo Rolf Spell and his partner, reviews the week’s progress, unveils new clues, and celebrates top-performing players, blending humor, suspense, and community engagement. This unique format is inspired by the comic book series Matt Marteau, bringing its thrilling mysteries and quirky characters to life.

Synopsis: In Crime Solver Bandits, the line between gaming and television blurs as audiences are invited to become part of a thrilling crime-solving adventure. Each week, viewers are tasked with unraveling a new mystery by piecing together clues scattered across daily online content such as podcasts, videos, fake websites, and even interactive phone calls. Guided by the comedic yet sharp-witted detective duo, Rolf Spell and his partner, the show not only reviews the week’s findings but also introduces fresh puzzles and challenges. As players climb the leaderboard, their theories and strategies are shared on air, fostering a vibrant community of sleuths. With engaging storytelling, live studio interactions, and high-stakes prizes, Crime Solver Bandits transforms passive viewing into an immersive, participatory experience where everyone has a chance to be the ultimate detective.

Format Details:

  • Broadcast Schedule: Saturday evenings, 50-minute episodes.
  • Gameplay Integration: Players engage in browser-based games or an app daily, solving puzzles and gathering clues. This culminates in the Saturday broadcast, where the mystery unfolds further.
  • Studio Design: A cozy film-noir-inspired detective office, featuring warm lighting, oak furniture, and Venetian blinds. A bar area hosts audience members and players before the show.
  • Tone: Lighthearted and engaging, blending crime-solving with comedic antics reminiscent of classic buddy cop films.

Weekly Episode Structure:

  1. Opening Recap (5 minutes): Rolf Spell humorously summarizes last week’s case, showcasing highlights from top players and their strategies.
  2. Clue Review (15 minutes): The week’s game clues are dissected, with audience interaction both in-studio and online. Players share theories, and Rolf provides insights.
  3. Live Challenge (10 minutes): Invited players or audience members participate in a themed mini-game related to the case, earning bonus points.
  4. Next Week’s Mystery (15 minutes): A dramatic trailer introduces the new crime scenario. Key clues are teased, encouraging players to dive into the next week’s game.
  5. Closing Highlights (5 minutes): Leaderboards are updated, and teasers for prizes and surprises are revealed.

Interactive Gameplay:

  • Daily content drops in the form of podcasts, videos, social media posts, and other online media.
  • Clues and puzzles encourage collaboration among players, fostering a competitive and community-driven experience.
  • User-generated content is incorporated, allowing players to create and submit decoy clues for editorial approval.

Player Engagement:

  • A dedicated app or website serves as the central hub for gameplay, updates, and leaderboards.
  • Players form teams or compete individually, with progress tracked throughout the season.
  • Social media platforms amplify community interaction, sharing theories and gameplay highlights.

Season Prizes: At the end of the season, top players win story-themed prizes such as vacations, gadgets, or exclusive collectibles, provided by sponsors. Weekly winners also receive smaller rewards, enhancing engagement.

Unique Selling Points:

  • Interactive Storytelling: Seamlessly integrates gaming and live TV to create a multi-platform experience.
  • Community Focus: Encourages collaboration and friendly competition among players.
  • Innovative Content: Utilizes a wide range of digital media to create an immersive world.
  • Sponsor-Friendly: High-value prizes and integrated branding appeal to advertisers.

Tagline: Solve the crime. Play the game. Be the detective.

Status: In development at FireStarter Film Studio, design-documents and screenplays to be written.

Willem Elzenga

This project has been under the interest of the BBC and CBS.

Marcos Fizzotti

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Tasha Lewis

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