Chris Heckmann is a Professor of Media & Communication at Roger Williams University and graduate of UCLA’s Cinema & Media Studies Master of Arts program. When he’s not writing or teaching, he’s probably playing video games (or thinking about the next great Boston sports trade).
The term “color palette” is used often in visual art – but what is color palette? We’re going to answer that question with a color palette definition, then we'll show you a bunch of types of color palettes. By the end, you’ll know what color palette means and how to use color palettes in your own work.Continue reading What is a Color Palette — How to Use Them in Visual Arts
A Socratic dialogue is an excellent vehicle for individuals to explore the epistemological nature of ideas. But what is Socratic dialogue? And why is it an excellent vehicle for exploring epistemology? We’re going to answer those questions by defining Socratic dialogue; then we’ll break down some Socratic dialogue examples. By the end, you’ll know how to recognize and implement this techniue in your writing and everyday life.Continue reading What is Socratic Dialogue — Definition, Examples & Uses
Color is an integral part of visual art – but how do we know it’s so important? Well, one way is through the application of color theory. What is color theory? We’re going to define color theory, then break down a variety of color theory examples from paintings, photographs, and films to see how color is used as a tool for expression. By the end, you’ll know the history of color theory and how to apply it.Continue reading What is Color Theory — A Guide for Image Makers
What is a parody? Is it a joke? Is it a mock of a famous work? We’re going to get to the bottom of those questions by breaking down the history of parodies – as well as by looking at some famous parody examples in film and literature. By the end, you’ll know what makes a parody unique – and how to parody something yourself.Continue reading What is a Parody — Definition and Examples in Film
What is film theory? Is it just the theory of film? Or is it something more? Fear not, we’re going to answer the question “what is film theory?” with a film theory definition. We’re also going to examine a variety of different aspects of film theory, both technically and theoretically. By the end, you’ll know what film theory is, how to apply it, and why it’s important to the study of media.Continue reading What is Film Theory — How to Study Film (And Why)
Over the millennia, the world has seen a vast array of art styles. But what are they? We’re going to break down art styles from abstract expressionism ukiyo-e. We’re also going to embed links to dedicated articles on many of the art styles discussed. By the end, you’ll have a cursory knowledge of many different art styles; as well as an opportunity to learn more.Continue reading Art Styles Explained — A Complete Guide to 40+ Art Movements
There is no film industry in the world that is more prolific than that of the Indian cinema. Each year, upwards of a thousand films are released in India. Unlike Hollywood, Indian cinema encompasses different languages from a swath of regions, the largest of which is those of the Hindi-language from what we now refer to as “Bollywood.” But what is Bollywood? Is it just the Hindi-language sector of India’s movie industry, or is it something more?We’re going to look at the world of Indian cinema with a special focus on Bollywood, first by defining the industry, then by breaking…
Abraham Lincoln famously said that “no government of the people, by the people, and for the people, shall perish from this Earth.” But did you know that “the people” is a famous example of an epistrophe? So, what is an epistrophe? We’re going to break down epistrophes by looking at epistrophe examples in writing. By the end, you’ll know how to recognize and utilize epistrophes.Continue reading What is an Epistrophe — Definition, Examples for Writers
What is steampunk? We’ve all heard the term before, but many of us have never heard it explained in an easy to understand way. Well, that ends today, because we’re going to break down everything there is to know about this genre and aesthetic, from costumes to characteristics. By the end, you’ll know what steampunk is, why it’s an important part of fiction, and how to utilize it in your own works. Continue reading What is Steampunk — Definition, Origins, and Examples
What is a leitmotif? What makes it different from a theme song? How is it used in cinema? These are the questions we’re going to answer as we look at the leitmotif definition and examples. We’re also going to show you how masterclass composers like John Williams apply leitmotifs to their films. By the end, you’ll be ready to apply a ‘leading motif’ to your own production!Continue reading What is a Leitmotif? Definition and Examples
