The Scorpion and the Frog Story — How Writers Use Fables

The Scorpion and the Frog story is a classic fable that has only become popular over the last hundred or so years. But just like the most famous animal fables of all-time, like the Tortoise and the Hare and the Ants and the Grasshopper, the Scorpion and the Frog is a tale that can be used to demonstrate, subvert, and communicate character archetypes. We’re going to explore some examples of how the Scorpion vs Frog has been used in film – but first let’s define fables.Continue reading The Scorpion and the Frog Story — How Writers Use Fables

How to Make a Mood Board Without Photoshop

So, you want to make a mood board without Photoshop. Good, you’ve come to the right place! We’re going to show you how to make a mood board without Photoshop by looking at strategies both on and off-line. By the end, you’ll know how to make a mood board without Photoshop, and more importantly, where to get started.Continue reading How to Make a Mood Board Without Photoshop

Beauty and the Beast Script PDF Download: Plot, Quotes, and Analysis

Want to learn how to write an adaptation of an adaptation? Look no further than Stephen Chbosky and Evan Spiliotopoulos’s 2017 Beauty and the Beast script. We’re going to break down the Beauty and the Beast script by looking at its characters, quotes, and ending. By the end, you’ll know how Chbosky and Spiliotopoulos renovated a 250+ year story while staying true to the original.Continue reading Beauty and the Beast Script PDF Download: Plot, Quotes, and Analysis

What is a Showrunner — What it Means to Literally Run the Show

Television shows have a lot of moving parts — almost every show employs numerous writers and directors. So, how do you make sure everything functions as it should while guaranteeing the overall creative vision of the series? This is the job of a showrunner — a position more like the conductor of an orchestra. We’ll break down the basic responsibilities of the role as well as what it takes to eventually become one. What is a showrunner? Let's go behind the scenes of today's biggest television and streaming shows to find the answer.Continue reading What is a Showrunner — What…

Best Orson Welles Movies — His 13 Directed Films Ranked

Orson Welles used to say “they’ll love me when I’m dead” — well at least that’s what his protege Peter Bogdanovich said. I suppose in some sense that perspective was well-warranted. Although Welles received a lot of acclaim during his life, particularly for writing, directing, and starring in Citizen Kane, he never got the respect many contemporary critics suppose he deserved. Welles’ career was plagued by studio censorship, personal vendettas, and a desire for perfectionism. But still, Welles endured making more than a dozen movies, as well as more than a dozen unfinished movies. We’re going to rank the Best…

Is ‘Joker’ Dangerous? The Joker Movie Controversy Explained

  Joker Script Download Best Joker Actors Joker Controversy Joker Movie Review Todd Phillips’ Joker (2019) sparked considerable controversy leading up to its release. Joker deals with many thematically disturbing elements — mental health, political violence, and an “incel”-like protagonist. Despite these concerns surrounding the Joker movie controversy, the movie did not inspire violence. Quite the opposite actually. So now, looking back, perhaps we can analyze the Joker movie controversy to see if there are any lessons for filmmakers. Taking a look at Phillips’ and Scott Silver’s script, what can we as screenwriters learn about creating pathos for the psychopaths…

What is the Chosen One — Classic Character Trope Explained

Whether it be whispered tales around a campfire or blockbuster epics on the silver screen, certain character archetypes have stood the test of time, captivating audiences with their timeless appeal. Among these, the Chosen One trope shines as a beacon of hope and destiny, weaving through narratives with the promise of greatness and the allure of a predetermined path. Let's explore this fascinating trope, understanding its roots, characteristics, and unforgettable cinematic renditions. Continue reading What is the Chosen One — Classic Character Trope Explained

What is a Zoetrope — The Pre-Animation Illusion Explained

Animation, a captivating blend of art and science, has the unique ability to breathe life into the most static of illustrations. Yet, how often do we pause to question the mechanics behind this mesmerizing spectacle? In this article, we invite you on a journey back in time to explore the Zoetrope, a significant milestone that shaped the world of animation.Continue reading What is a Zoetrope — The Pre-Animation Illusion Explained

Positive Character Traits — A Guide & List of Examples

A famously red-headed little girl once said, “The sun will come up tomorrow.” Annie, the titular character of the movie of the same name, became a beloved figure in film, and an enduring symbol of staying optimistic in hard times. Annie had several character traits, but her hopefulness is what’s often remembered about her. Having hope or optimism is a positive character trait. Some of the most memorable heroines and heroes in film and literature have positive character traits. So what are positive character traits, and why do authors choose to use them?  Continue reading Positive Character Traits — A Guide…

The Kubrick Stare — The Look Defined & Explained

If it can be written, or thought, it can be filmed.” Famed director Stanley Kubrick said these words. Over his long career, Kubrick developed many trademark camera and directing techniques to take things from his mind to the screen. From The Shining to Eyes Wide Shut, Kubrick’s films were known for their fascinating visual language, which included iconic shots and visually precise camera movements.  One of Kubrick’s most well-known techniques is known as the “Kubrick Stare.” The Stanley Kubrick Stare appears often throughout his filmography, and is still imitated and widely used by artists in film today. What is The…

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