Few words are as loaded or controversial as “propaganda.” But what does the term actually mean? Is it a way to spread misinformation, manipulate public opinion, or influence behavior? A function of manipulation onto a populace? A funny Walt Disney cartoon starring Donald Duck? All this and much more, propaganda has been around for a very long time but seems to be more recognized (at least by name) since the nineteenth century. We will provide a definition of propaganda, along with notable examples, primarily in art and film. Continue reading What is Propaganda — Definition, Types & Functions
Learn screenplay format step by step, with clear examples of scene headings, dialogue, action lines, and more. Industry-standard guide.
Learn how to make a mood board step by step with visual templates and expert tips to communicate your creative vision effectively.
When we watch a movie or read a novel, we momentarily experience a perspective and world outside of our own. Most often, we do this through a character. Through stylistic prose or cinematic perspective, we can step into their shoes and experience the story through their eyes. Without characters, storytelling would merely be a recounting of circumstances without any real perspective. Continue reading What is a Character — Types, Examples & Functions
Internal dialogue is one way writers communicate the inner-thoughts of their characters – but what is internal dialogue? I should say something like worry not, okay – worry not! I will explain internal dialogue with examples from American Psycho, Seinfeld, and more. By the end, you’ll know how to implement internal dialogue in prose and script format!Continue reading What is Internal Dialogue — Definition, Examples & Techniques
Often regarded as one of the worlds greatest actors, Robert De Niro is also one of the most prolific. According to IMDB, De Niro has acting credits in 120 different productions! Within those 120 performances are some of cinema’s finest. In this list, we’re going to rank the top Robert De Niro movies, and the impact they’ve had on film. Continue reading The Tough Guy — 20 Best Robert De Niro Movies
Picture this: a figure cloaked in shadows, eyes burning with malevolent intent, fingers curled around a staff of power. This figure is not just any villain; they are the embodiment of pure evil, a character so dark and terrifying that they send chills down your spine. You've seen them as Voldemort in Harry Potter, Sauron in The Lord of the Rings, and Darth Vader in Star Wars. But what exactly makes these characters so fascinating and so universally recognized? They all represent the Dark Lord archetype, a crucial component of storytelling that has existed across cultures and history, adding depth and…
Apophasis was born from the realms of Greek rhetoric and continues to find application in modern communication. It’s place in debate, literature, and everyday conversation is timeless because of its balance of wit and function. Let’s look deeper into this interesting rhetorical device. Continue reading What is Apophasis — Definition, Examples & Strategies
It's no surprise that William Shakespeare is considered one of the most influential and renowned playwrights in history. His works have stood the test of time and continue to be studied, performed, and adapted in various forms. But what sets Shakespeare apart from other writers? One word: tragedy.In this article, we will explore the unique characteristics of a Shakespearean tragedy, its themes, and why it continues to captivate audiences centuries later.Continue reading What is a Shakespearean Tragedy — Definition & Elements
The term “tragicomedy” is used to refer to things that incorporate multiple elements of tone and structure. But what is tragicomedy? We’re going to answer that question by outlining a tragicomedy definition, as well as a history of the term and some examples. By the end, you’ll know what tragicomedy is, and how it came to popularity.Continue reading What is Tragicomedy — Definition, Examples & Origins
