What is Horror? Definition and Examples in Film

Why are humans drawn to the horror genre? From books to film, we can’t seem to get enough of what scares us most. In this article, we will look at the definition of horror and why we enjoy the genre so much. We will also look at a brief history of American cinema and how horror has evolved over the years. While this article will provide a general definition of horror, the genre is open to interpretation. After all, what is horror to you, is Child’s Play to me.Continue reading What is Horror? Definition and Examples in Film

Best Steven Spielberg Movies, Ranked for Filmmakers

If you loved movies as a child, then there’s a good chance you owe a debt of gratitude to Steven Spielberg. He’s directed some of the best, most entertaining, and most influential films of all time. Honestly, he has about 10 films you could put as #1 on a list of his best movies, and no one would be mad.He’s been a producer, writer, and even an actor over the years, but for this list, we’re only looking at the 31 feature-length, theatrically-released films in his filmography. Get ready to be inspired because we’re counting down the best Steven Spielberg…

Ultimate Guide to Film Terms: The Definitive Glossary of Film Terminology

Browse Film Terms  A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z Whether you’re working on your first or 100th film, there is always something new to learn. When you need to update your film terminology, this resource will be your best friend. We’ve included as many film terms as humanly possible all on one page, so let’s get into it.Continue reading Ultimate Guide to Film Terms: The Definitive Glossary of Film Terminology

Deus ex Machina — Meaning, Definition & Examples

  What does deus ex machina mean? Writers work hard to put their characters into terrible situations to find new and creative ways to get them out. It’s entertaining and it’s a sign of a great, organic story. Conflict needs to live and breathe. But conflict also demands resolution. Catharsis. But for some writers, that catharsis comes cheap. This post explores the deus ex machina meaning in film with a few examples. Let’s jump in. Continue reading Deus ex Machina — Meaning, Definition & Examples

Janusz Kamiński Movies Ranked — The Cinematographer’s Best

Janusz Kamiński is one of the most celebrated cinematographers working today. Since Schindler’s List, he’s become Steven Spielberg’s go-to director of photography, giving the filmmaker’s movies a grit and realism that was largely missing in his earlier filmography. Janusz Kamiński movies have certain calling cards — high contrast, strong backlighting — but not one of them looks the same. We’ve ranked his finest work, and at the end of the list, download a mood board with our favorite Kamiński shots. Continue reading Janusz Kamiński Movies Ranked — The Cinematographer’s Best

What is Anticlimax? Definition & Examples

Anticlimax is a dirty word, one which we’ve been trained to avoid at all costs. Nobody wants to tell a story only to have a friend shrug and say, “Well, that was anticlimactic.” But a deliberate anticlimax can be instructive, funny, poignant, or all of the above. How does an anticlimax work, and what lessons can we take from some of the most iconic anticlimaxes in pop culture?Continue reading What is Anticlimax? Definition & Examples

David Koepp — Screenwriter Analysis on Genre, Craft & Process

David Koepp may be famous for writing the action-packed blockbusters Jurassic Park and Mission Impossible, but his decades-long career as screenwriter boasts a far more diverse, and abundant, oeuvre. From romantic or black comedies to thrillers or moody suspense, Koepp’s stories take audiences on entertaining rides, no matter the genre.   Continue reading David Koepp — Screenwriter Analysis on Genre, Craft & Process

How to Become an Actor as a Kid — 8 Steps for Child Actors

Some of the best actors in the business began as child actors. Leonardo DiCaprio, Ryan Gosling, and Emma Watson are among only a few child actors who are now some of the most wanted actors in Hollywood. Parents with talented children often want to know the process of how to become an actor as a kid. How does working with a child actor differ than working with any other actors? We’ll answer all of these questions in more detail in this article.Continue reading How to Become an Actor as a Kid — 8 Steps for Child Actors

Best End of the World Movies — 15 Visions of the End Times

Filmmakers have attempted to portray the end of the world through film since early cinema. Throughout the years, these attempts have proven to be futile for many. The list of forgettable apocalypse movies could fill a novel. But a few filmmakers have portrayed the end of the world in wildly entertaining and unique ways. So which movie do you put on for movie night when you’re in a rather apocalyptic mood? Here is our complete list of the best end of the world movies.Continue reading Best End of the World Movies — 15 Visions of the End Times