Being a filmmaker, it’s essential to know the different types of sound in film. For example, what is diegetic sound and how is it used? In this article, we’re going to define diegetic sound in a short and simple way. Then we’re going to look at key examples to show you how experts incorporate diegetic sound into their works. We'll also answer what is the difference between diegetic and non-diegetic sound. Headphones on, let's get to it. Continue reading What is Diegetic Sound — Definition, Examples & How It Works
Introducing StudioBinder's screenplay library — your one-stop-shop for reading, downloading, and analyzing the best movie scripts online. Our collection contains all the feature-length screenplays in our database as well as scripts that we have broken down by plot, character, ending, quotes, and more. Our hope is that screenwriters everywhere can have access to these iconic screenplays and that the lessons therein can make us all better writers. Enjoy!Continue reading Explore and Read the Best Free Movie Scripts Online (with PDF Downloads)
He survived the transition from child actor to become one of today's preeminent actors. These are the best Leonardo DiCaprio movies of all time.
Pastiche is a term thrown around a lot in filmmaking, but what exactly qualifies as pastiche? Pastiche can be both a boon and a pitfall to your creative process, so it’s important to know what it is, what it isn’t, and how to use it effectively in your own work. In this post, we’re going to explain what pastiche is and how it differs from other storytelling devices it’s often confused with. We’ll also take a look at how prolific filmmakers utilize pastiche in their work, and how when done right, pastiche can help define their personal style and voice.…
What is a Mexican Standoff? And for that matter, how does it differ from a regular standoff? In this post, we’ll be digging into the term, breaking down its origins, clearing up common misconceptions, and taking a look at some of the best examples. We’ll also be answering the question: why is it called a Mexican Standoff? And, be sure to watch our video essay below for a guide on shooting and editing Mexican Standoff scenes.Continue reading What is a Mexican Standoff — How to Direct a Showdown
How do you write an action scene in a screenplay? How specific and technical should you get? Or, is it better to leave the action description simplistic with the knowledge that a director, choreography, and stunt coordinator will be working out the details of the action? Different screenwriters answer these questions in different ways, and there is no ONE correct answer. Since action can be approached in a multitude of ways, let’s learn through examples and look at scripts that tackle action through three distinct methods.Continue reading How to Write an Action Scene in a Screenplay — 3 Methods
While cinema is known for being a primarily visual medium, there is no doubt how much of an impact music can have on a film. Some of the most iconic scenes in history are remembered with a song attached. Sometimes the music choices are left to a director far after the screenplay is written. However, other times music is baked into the screenplay itself and how a scene may operate. In this article, you’ll learn when and how to write music into a screenplay so that you can create unforgettable scenes through music.Continue reading How to Write Music into a…
What is blaxploitation? Blaxploitation refers to a genre, a film movement, and an important period of cinema history. In this post, we’ll define Blaxploitation, explain the historical context, look at the most important films of the movement, and even take a look at the status of this genre and style in our modern film industry.Continue reading What is Blaxploitation — An American Film Movement Explained
Brad Pitt is one of the most iconic American actors today, simultaneously revered for his good looks and depth as an actor. In this list, we’re going to rank the best Brad Pitt movies. The ranking of these films are in regards to their quality and impact, not Brad Pitt’s performance. But every film on the list features Pitt in a substantial if not starring role. Before we dive into the list of his best movies, let's look at the role he won the Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor in Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood. Continue reading 20 Best…
Writing dual protagonists is generally frowned upon, unless you’re one of the select few who can break the rules, like Quentin Tarantino (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) or the late William Goldman (Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid). Critics argue that writers, especially amateur ones, can get lost in the logistics attempting to craft two protagonists. Others suggest that writers attempt to erect dual protagonists to distract from weak, unformed solitary ones. Let’s face it. Crafting a single endearing protagonist poses enough challenges as it is. Why throw in two? But so many of our favorite films (When Harry Met Sally, La…
