For centuries, narrative works were strongly positioned to be one of two things: a comedy or a tragedy. Even these days, the two genres of drama and comedy are usually the most prominent or easiest to ascertain. Even if one has minor elements of the other, they can still exist as separate entities. Unless, of course, you’re talking about a dramedy. What is a dramedy, you ask? While it can be simplified as being a mixture of drama and comedy, we want to go in-depth with characteristics and examples. We want you to know what to look out for when…
Since the mid-’80s, few films have entered the pop cultural landscape and stayed there like Ghostbusters. A strong comedic cast, talented director, and a memorable theme song catapulted the movie to the history books. And to paraphrase Peter Venkman, the franchise rights alone made them rich beyond their wildest dreams. But it all had to come from somewhere, which is why we will be looking at the Ghostbusters script. We’ll be going over who wrote Ghostbusters and see how the script, while a little different from the final film, provided the basis for memorable quotes, characters, and themes.Continue reading Ghostbusters…
What is a production company? Quite simply, it is a company that produces content. But there’s a lot more to the term than just that and every company is a little different from the next. Whether it's animation, commercials, music videos, feature films, or web content, there is a production entity behind it. We’re going to explore the history of production companies, as well how they’re different from studios and publishing houses. By the end, you’ll know what these companies are and how to start your own. Continue reading What is a Production Company in Film (& What Do They…
Finding a good acting agency can be a major step in moving forward with your career. An agent can connect you with opportunities and auditions, advise on contract negotiations, and provide a helpful mentorship role as you navigate your career. But how do you find an agent? In this post, we’ll break down the best acting agencies for beginners to professionals in Hollywood today, from the Big 4 high profile best acting agencies to smaller boutique firms for working actors. We’ll also give you an idea of what agents looking for actors want to see if you do manage to…
Sometimes, a hero is only as good as their villain. Whether they’re a charismatic villain that you love to hate or pure, unadulterated evil, these villains will stick in your mind for years to come. Be sure to check out our How to Write a Villain video essay below for a breakdown of three villainous archetypes. Without further ado, please join us in counting down the best movie villains of all time.Continue reading The Best Villains of All Time — 23 Vile and Vicious Evildoers
There is a saying: the best film editing is the editing that nobody notices. Though there are exceptions, this is pretty widely accepted as truth for the most part. So if good editing purposely avoids standing out, how are the nominees and winners of the Best Film Editing Oscar picked out and decided?The editing style of a particular film is at the behest of the story being told and the style of the director telling it. Large-scale films that are grand in scope and full of flashy, complex sequences are sure to impress, which is why war films tend to…
What is a triadic color scheme? How can it be utilized in your filmmaking efforts, why does it matter and how is it different from other color palettes? We will be answering each of these questions, taking a look at the power and psychology of color in storytelling, and showcasing examples of triadic color schemes in films.Continue reading What is a Triadic Color Scheme — Definition and Examples
You’re probably very familiar with stop-motion animation, which is distinct for having three-dimensional objects move on their own, usually in a jerky fashion. Well, clay models aren’t the only ones that get to have their picture taken a trillion times to look like they’re moving — human beings can get in on the fun too! But it’s not called stop-motion in this case; it’s called pixilation. What is pixilation, you ask, and why is it spelled with an “i” instead of an “e”? Let’s answer those questions by learning a bit more about this filming technique, along with some examples.Continue…
How does a performer, showrunner, director, or writer find an agent? Talent agents connect their clients with auditions, arrange meetings, help negotiate contracts, and they can provide a helpful mentor role for navigating a career in the entertainment industry. Artists tend to think of the “Big 4,” high profile movie talent agencies, but it is possible to find a smaller top talent agency that might be a better fit for where you are in your career. There are many things you can do before you ever connect with an agent to be as ready as possible when it is time…
In World War II’s aftermath, business leaders felt threatened by the shifting landscape of the labor movement. Industries struggled, and workers spoke up—even the film industry is currently impacted by these demands for systemic change. When these workers spoke up, though, lawmakers felt the pressure to respond. As with any major historical movement, it’s not such a simple exchange; that’s where the Taft-Hartley Act of 1947 shifts the landscape even more. But exactly what is the Taft-Hartley Act? Keep reading to see how you and your production work under its influence. Continue reading What is the Taft-Hartley Act & What Producers…
