What is 2:1 Aspect Ratio (Univisium) & Why Are Directors Switching Over?

When making a movie, it can be a struggle to decide between the two most common widescreen aspect ratios: 1.85:1 and 2.35:1. For anyone who has ever felt this struggle, there is an ideal middle ground. We’re talking about the 2:1 aspect ratio which has seen a resurgence in the last decade. In this article, we’ll go over the 2:1 aspect ratio, where it came from, and how it’s been used in movies and TV so that you too can take advantage of this unique frame.Disclaimer: Since 2.35 is often used interchangeably with 2.39 and 2.4, we will do the same…

What is Pre-Code Hollywood? The Most Risque Pre-Code Movies Explained

From 1929-1934, Hollywood produced some of the 20th century’s most progressive films. This period of time — and the films that were made within it — is widely known as Pre-Code Hollywood. But what is Pre-Code Hollywood? It was more than just a few years in cinema history — it was a liberal shift in culture. We’re going to look at the history of Pre-Code movies and how it was shut down. But before we get into the Pre-Code examples, let’s remind ourselves of the period’s general history. Continue reading What is Pre-Code Hollywood? The Most Risque Pre-Code Movies Explained

1917 One Shot Explained — How Roger Deakins Shot a “Oner” Film

When it was announced that 1917 would be shot to look like a single take, it quickly became one of the most anticipated movies of the year. While the performances and screenplay were both incredible, many left the theatre wondering the same thing. How was 1917 filmed? While there is no single answer to this question, there are various factors that contributed to the immersive 1917 one shot cinematography. Without further adieu, let’s dive into how they pulled this off.Continue reading 1917 One Shot Explained — How Roger Deakins Shot a “Oner” Film

Best New Movies on Amazon Prime (July 2020)

With such a wealth of new movies to rent on Amazon Prime it can be hard to keep track of and parse new movies as they are added to the platform. Here we cover the best new movies on Amazon Prime in May 2020. You can also read our list of the best overall films available on Amazon Prime right now. All movies will be available as of July 1st unless otherwise noted. Now let’s take a look at what’s new on Amazon Prime video. Continue reading Best New Movies on Amazon Prime (July 2020)

Best Shows on Amazon Prime Video (July 2020)

How many hours have you spent combing through streaming services looking for the next great show to watch? If you’re anything like me, then it’s probably more than you’re comfortable admitting. But don’t fret, we’ve scoured the depths of the seven seas of streaming to deliver you our take on what the best shows to watch right now are. Here’s our list of the best shows on Amazon Prime Video.Continue reading Best Shows on Amazon Prime Video (July 2020)

Best New Movies on Netflix, Ranked for Filmmakers (July 2020)

Every month, dozens of movies arrive on Netflix, but it can be a hassle keeping track of all the great content that comes and goes. Don’t fret though, we’re going to break down the best new movies on Netflix each month to help you decide on what to watch. These are the best of what’s coming to Netflix in June, 2020. Continue reading Best New Movies on Netflix, Ranked for Filmmakers (July 2020)

Best Shows on Netflix Right Now, Ranked for Filmmakers (July 2020)

Netflix has garnered a reputation in recent years for being the go-to destination for TV streaming. That’s because the service has a little something for everyone -- dramas, comedies, documentaries, mockumentaries, and anything else you might think up. But finding the next great show to watch on Netflix can be difficult. Don’t worry though, we’ve done the research to deliver you our list of the best shows on Netflix. Continue reading Best Shows on Netflix Right Now, Ranked for Filmmakers (July 2020)

The Best Shows on HBO Right Now (July 2020)

There are plenty of great shows on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, but HBO still reigns king in the world of TV streaming. Since 1972, the ‘Home Box Office’, better known as HBO has produced dozens upon dozens of top-tier TV shows. We’re going to rank the best shows on HBO, from ‘72 to 2020 so that you can find a new series or a forgotten classic that is 100% worth viewing.Continue reading The Best Shows on HBO Right Now (July 2020)

The Best Quentin Tarantino Songs Used in His Movies

There are three things in this life you can be certain of — death, taxes, and awesome Quentin Tarantino soundtracks. Tarantino is the master of the needle drop and knows how to place an existing song perfectly within a scene. It’s tough to narrow down the best Quentin Tarantino songs in his filmography, but that’s precisely what we did so that you can learn how to incorporate needle drops into your own work.Continue reading The Best Quentin Tarantino Songs Used in His Movies

How to Make a Web Series: A Filmmaker’s Guide in 4 Steps

Broad City. Burning Love. Childrens Hospital. Before these shows made it onto TV, they began as web series. Making your own series to publish online is a great way to get your voice out there. You can make precisely the show you want without network interference, and you may even end up getting more work out of it. It’s no wonder why so many filmmakers want to learn how to make a web series.In this blog, we’ll break down the four major steps to make your own web series. Of course, each step is easier said than done. It takes…