When it comes to storytelling, conflict is what gives us the ability to move them. Filmmakers, as conductors of feeling, guide the audience on an emotional journey. The story is the vehicle that takes us, but without external conflict, it’s a car with no engine. Today we’ll explore the six types of external conflict and their significance in storytelling. We’ll also examine the relationship between internal and external conflict through the lens of filmmaker Derek Cianfrance (Roofman, Blue Valentine). His films are pressure-cooker environments for characters facing profound battles both within and outside themselves. The kind of narrative that pulls…
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Sounds rather lofty, doesn’t it? But you’ve probably heard this commonly cited quote from the King James Bible simplified as the phrase “pride comes before the fall.” The ominous warning tells readers that if they are too arrogant, they may come to regret it. This theme is a common one in storytelling, and many characters exhibit this quality - which is called “hubris” - to their own detriment. But what is hubris, and what are examples of this trait in literature and film? Read on to find out how…
By now, you’ve likely heard the term ‘three act structure’ when it comes to film storytelling. But how many acts can a movie get away with anyway? Is separating a screenplay into three sections a loose norm or a strict rule? And what exactly defines an act within the rule of threes? Well, question no more! Because we’ll answer how many acts are in a movie, and how many acts a movie can have. We'll also take a brief look at the history of story structure. Let’s get started. Continue reading How Many Acts Are in a Movie? 3-Act Structure Explained
When it comes to writing research papers, a thesis statement should always be included. But what is a thesis statement? We’ll answer that, as well as provide examples of what a thesis statement would look like for a range of topics. Continue reading What is a Thesis Statement? Definition, Meaning, Examples
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…
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
Compound subjects are an important part of creating variety in sentence structure. They are subjects that work in tandem, with each noun contributing to what is being communicated in a sentence. Let’s break it down simply. Continue reading What is a Compound Subject — Definition & Examples
Many writers aim to immerse us into stories and worlds so deeply that we momentarily forget we are reading a piece of fiction. However, some writers aim to do the exact opposite. They expose the narrative elements at play, bringing them to the forefront of our attention. What does a story have to gain by reminding the reader they are reading a fictional work? This is the power of metafiction. Continue reading What is Metafiction — Definition, Examples & Functions
We’ve all heard the term “chick flick.” It’s typically used in a derogatory manner, referring to a movie that is lighter fare and ostensibly made for women. But although the term has a negative connotation, some movies dubbed “chick flicks” are some of the most beloved and powerful ever made. So, what is a chick flick?Continue reading What is a Chick Flick — Definition, Tropes & Best Examples
