Best Movie Sequels of All Time, Ranked for Filmmakers

Audiences and filmmakers alike love sequels. And we all love to rank  and debate which are the “greatest.”  But deciding which films belong on a “best movie sequels of all time” list can feel overwhelming. How does one choose from every film ever made? And how to rank one above the other? While such a list is by definition subjective, it doesn’t have to be arbitrary. One way of more rigorously determining if a movie is the best in a certain category is by ranking it according to aggregated scores across categories. To determine the best sequels of all time…

What is a Director’s Cut? Every Type of Director’s Cut Explained

If you grew up in the home video era, you may have found yourself asking, “What is a Director’s Cut?” When DVD emerged, some movies would claim to be a “Director’s Cut,” which could imply many things to the potential consumer. It might seem straightforward, but there’s a lot more to Director’s Cuts than just a longer version of a movie. So, what is a Director’s Cut and why are there so many of them? We’re going to go over the definition, its history through theatrical and home video releases, famous examples of Director’s Cuts and the different types that exist.Continue…

The Best Shows on HBO Right Now (September 2020)

There are plenty of great shows on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, but HBO still reigns king in the world of TV streaming. Since 1972, the ‘Home Box Office’, better known as HBO has produced dozens upon dozens of top-tier TV shows. We’re going to rank the best shows on HBO, from ‘72 to 2020 so that you can find a new series or a forgotten classic that is 100% worth viewing. Continue reading The Best Shows on HBO Right Now (September 2020)

What is a Steadicam Shot & How Did it Change Cinema?

Often the most impactful inventions in history have come about as a result of a beautiful accident. In film, especially on set, beautiful accidents happen all of the time. Luckily for us, a particular invention happened nearly half a century ago, early enough to give us some of the best footage we’ve ever seen. The Steadicam came about over trial and error. So what is it? What is a Steadicam shot? Let’s quickly define it, and learn more about the inventor of one of the most revolutionizing pieces of equipment in film history.Continue reading What is a Steadicam Shot &…

23 Best Movie Scores of All Time — Filmmaker Playlist

What makes a great music score? Does it need to dominate the soundtrack or can go unnoticed in the background? Should a contemporary movie always use modern music or is it blasphemy for a period piece to include pop songs? Whether you have answers to these questions or not, there's no denying the power of music in how we experience movies. These are the best movie scores of all time — some you will spot a mile away, others will raise some eyebrows, but all will get you thinking about what music you'll use in your next project.Continue reading 23…

Best Disney Plus Movies You Can Watch Right Now (August 2020)

Ever since Disney Plus launched, fans of all ages have been able to relive classic films from their childhoods. But since it’s Disney, people can now watch Star Wars and Marvel movies with the click of a button. Disney Plus has films from decades ago, so it may feel a bit overwhelming to decide what you should watch next to become an even more informed Disney fan. But for our money, these are the best Disney Plus movies you can watch tonight. Continue reading Best Disney Plus Movies You Can Watch Right Now (August 2020)

The Best Shows on HBO Right Now (August 2020)

There are plenty of great shows on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, but HBO still reigns king in the world of TV streaming. Since 1972, the ‘Home Box Office’, better known as HBO has produced dozens upon dozens of top-tier TV shows. We’re going to rank the best shows on HBO, from ‘72 to 2020 so that you can find a new series or a forgotten classic that is 100% worth viewing. Continue reading The Best Shows on HBO Right Now (August 2020)

What is a Catchphrase — Definition, Examples & Uses

Catchphrases are an integral part of our social and cultural fabric. They are everywhere in advertising, bring back memories of our favorite shows or movies, and sometimes even shape our behaviors and attitudes. How do writers and creatives make catchphrases that are so memorable?  Continue reading What is a Catchphrase — Definition, Examples & Uses

What is a Sidekick — Powerful Supporting Characters

We often find ourselves mostly enveloped with the story arcs of heroes and villains. They often take center stage and become central to most stories. But there's another character that deserves recognition for their vital role in shaping narratives and enhancing central characters — the sidekick.  Continue reading What is a Sidekick — Powerful Supporting Characters

What Does Nemesis Mean — Definition and Examples

One step further than the antagonist, is the nemesis. Some of the most memorable characters from stories in cinema and literature are those who have challenged the heroes, characters who’s main role is to be a rivalry force. Let’s look at the impact the nemesis role can have and story and some of the best characters that have been created from it.  Continue reading What Does Nemesis Mean — Definition and Examples