How to Use Color in Film: 50+ Examples of Movie Color Palettes

A filmmaker is a visual artist. To be a great visual artist you need mastery of the color palette. Many of the greatest Directors, Cinematographers, and Production Designers have extensive backgrounds as visual artists themselves. There are many ways to use color in film. We’re going to break down the key approaches as well as… Continue reading How to Use Color in Film: 50+ Examples of Movie Color Palettes

How These Oscar Winning Films Use Doors To Tell Better Stories

As you may have experienced, securing the perfect film location isn’t always easy, and it’s rarely affordable. However, great filmmaking is not just about location, it’s also about how you set the scene. The impact a setting can have on the scene it supports is monumental. Let’s take a look at how Oscar winning films… Continue reading How These Oscar Winning Films Use Doors To Tell Better Stories

6 Ways To Turn Movie Props Into Iconic Symbols

Thor’s hammer. A volleyball named Wilson. One ring to rule them all. What do each of these things have in common? You’re probably thinking that they’re all movie props, and that’s true, but that’s not what makes them distinguished. When used properly (no pun intended), props become synonymous with the stories they tell. So, filmmakers,… Continue reading 6 Ways To Turn Movie Props Into Iconic Symbols

How To Create Striking First and Final Frames in Your Film

A beginning, middle, and end are the bare bones that support the structure of any story. In his video essay First and Final Frames, Jacob T. Swinney compiles a stunning side-by-side comparison of opening and closing shots from many famous films. This is a unique experience to be sure. In this post we’re going to… Continue reading How To Create Striking First and Final Frames in Your Film

The Pixar Storytelling Formula: An Inside Look

Animation BasicsOpen menu What is Animation What is Pre-Production in Animation What Does an Animator Do What is Cel Animation What is Pixilation Animation What is Tweening in Animation What is Anime What is Claymation What are Keyframe What is Persistence of Vision What is Stop Motion Animation What is Rotoscope Animation What is Character… Continue reading The Pixar Storytelling Formula: An Inside Look

4 Essential Principles for Creating the Ultimate Antagonist

A great antagonist is much more than just a “villain” to challenge your main character. There are many delicate components to creating a great antagonist. From casting to compelling storylines to inspired acting choices. However, it all starts in the script, and is fleshed out in the director’s script analysis.Continue reading 4 Essential Principles for… Continue reading 4 Essential Principles for Creating the Ultimate Antagonist