Kyle DeGuzman graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Science in Television, Film, & New Media. He currently resides in Denver, Colorado spending his time writing, filmmaking, and traveling.
In a story, context can change how we perceive and experience a narrative. Sometimes, writers use a larger story as the context for another. This technique is known as a frame story. Frame stories add depth to a narrative, creating an initial lens through which we view the rest of the story. This lens can be… Continue reading What is a Frame Narrative — Stories Inside Stories
Narrative ElementsOpen menu Antagonist Backstory Catharsis Conflict Dialogue Mood Motif Plot Point of View Protagonist Setting Subplot Subtext Theme Narrative DevicesOpen menu Deus ex Machina Flashback Foreshadowing Exposition Hamartia Iambic Pentameter Irony Juxtaposition Peripeteia Personification Plot Twist Red Herring Satire Symbolism Figures of SpeechOpen menu Allegory Allusion Alliteration Anaphora Assonance Consonance Connotation Euphemism Imagery Hyperbole… Continue reading What is Catharsis — Definition & Examples for Storytellers
In the era of the internet and Youtube, the video essay has become an increasingly popular means of expressing ideas and concepts. However, there is a bit of an enigma behind the construction of the video essay largely due to the vagueness of the term. What defines a video analysis essay? What is a video essay… Continue reading What is a Video Essay? The Art of the Video Analysis Essay
Creating a film is an exciting endeavor, but along the way it’s inevitable to hit logistical aspects that can discourage your ambitions. Film permits, for any filmmaker, can inevitably be one of these obstacles. Can I shoot here? What do I need to do to shoot here? Will I get in trouble? These are all fair… Continue reading How to Get a Film Permit — A Step-by-Step Breakdown
If you’ve ever marveled at the breathtaking landscapes of Pandora in Avatar or the spellbinding battles in The Lord of the Rings, you’ve witnessed the magic of visual effects. When looking into the nitty-gritty of how these famed visuals are created, filmmakers have utilized a combination of techniques such as CGI and VFX. But what’s the… Continue reading VFX vs. CGI vs. SFX — Decoding the Debate
Why do we find ourselves drawn to tales steeped in sorrow, where heroes crumble and hopes are dashed? This magnetic pull is the work of tragedy, a narrative mechanism that mirrors our own struggles against fate and the human condition. In this article, we’ll peel back the layers of tragedy in storytelling, journeying from its ancient… Continue reading What is Tragedy — Definition, Examples & Types Explained
Pacing is an elusive yet pivotal element in storytelling, acting as the rhythm that governs the reader’s journey through the narrative. It dictates the rate at which a story unfolds, influencing the tension, mood, and emotional resonance. Without pacing, a story can have an awkward sense of movement and flow. The best writers and storytellers… Continue reading What is Pacing in Writing — And Why It’s So Important
In scriptwriting for film and television, some numerous terms and abbreviations guide the narrative flow. One such term is O.S. But what does it mean, and how does it influence the way a story unfolds? In this article, we’ll take a look at the applications of O.S. dialogue, its significance in storytelling, and how it… Continue reading What Does O.S. Mean in a Script & How to Use It
When you’re watching a scene in a film or on television, the details within a set are usually meticulously planned and executed. There’s someone whose job is to make sure each scene looks the way it’s supposed to, and that person is known as the Leadman.Continue reading What Does a Leadman Do in Film —… Continue reading What Does a Leadman Do in Film — Job Description Explained
You’ve probably heard the term “Unit Production Manager” tossed around in film circles, a title that somehow feels both vague and important. But what exactly does a Unit Production Manager do? Why are they crucial to a film set? And how does one become a UPM? In this article, we’ll dive into these questions and more,… Continue reading What is a Unit Production Manager — Job and Role Explained
Although we often overlook it today, the breathtaking clarity of cinematography is a relatively recent development. Not too long ago, the images that graced the screens of cinemas and our homes were often filled with graininess and blurriness. However, everything changed with the advent of high-definition technology. High definition, or HD, is therefore not just a… Continue reading What is High Definition — History, Types & Impact
In the world of filmmaking, there are a variety of creative techniques that can enhance the storytelling and visual experience for viewers. One such technique is bullet time, which has become increasingly popular over the years. The technique makes time itself feel paused, allowing us, the viewers, to examine each detail in a scene that would… Continue reading What is Bullet Time in Film — The Art of Extreme Slow-Mo
The allure of the silver screen has captivated many, drawing aspiring filmmakers to pursue their dreams of directing blockbusters or crafting poignant indie films. Yet, as with many artistic careers, the path to success is not clearly defined, leading many to ponder: is film school worth it? This question is particularly pressing in an era where… Continue reading Is Film School Worth It — Why You Should or Shouldn’t Go
In the complex world of human communication, poetry is one of the most impactful elements. It combines our ideas, feelings, and life experiences in a beautifully arranged sequence of words. It’s an art form that, when well-executed, can be a method for emotional release, a way for intellectual engagement, and a means to see life… Continue reading How to Write a Poem — A Step-by-Step Guide
In the realm of storytelling, characters are the heart and soul of any narrative. They guide us through the plot, connect us to the story’s world, and evoke our emotions. But what makes a character truly captivating and relatable? One of the key elements is their flaws. Continue reading What is a Character Flaw — And… Continue reading What is a Character Flaw — And Why Writers Love Them
Film, at its best, is a conduit for shared human experience, an art form that transcends boundaries and languages. It’s a mirror held up to society, reflecting our triumphs, our failings, our dreams, our fears. And in this medium of storytelling, the role of the movie critic emerges as an important component of the art.… Continue reading How to Become a Movie Critic — Career Tips Explained
In the world of cinema, there’s an intriguing space where creativity meets passion, free from the constraints of big-budget studios. This is the realm of independent, or ‘indie’, films. The term ‘indie’ has become synonymous with uniqueness, originality, and autonomy in filmmaking. In this article, we will delve into the world of indie films, exploring their… Continue reading What is an Indie Film — Definition & History Explained
Picture this: you’re capturing a breathtaking sunset over the ocean, the warm hues painting the sky. To elevate the ethereal beauty of the scene, you reach for your trusted companion – the diffusion filter. The diffusion filter has gained popularity for its ability to transform images and scenes. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive understanding… Continue reading What is a Diffusion Filter — Effects and Uses Explained
Photography is an art that allows us to capture moments, tell stories, and express emotions. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects of photography is the backdrop. The backdrop can dramatically change the overall look and feel of the picture, setting the scene and emphasizing the subject. In this article, we’ll delve into what… Continue reading What is a Backdrop in Photography — Types & Creative Uses
Fables have been a cornerstone of human culture and communication for thousands of years, enchanting audiences with their magical blend of creativity, wisdom, and moral lessons. But what is a fable, exactly, and why has this form of storytelling stood the test of time? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the history, structure, and enduring… Continue reading What is a Fable — Definition, Examples & Characteristics
