What is Catharsis — Definition & Examples for Storytellers

Narrative ElementsOpen menu Antagonist Catharsis Motif Plot Protagonist Theme Narrative DevicesOpen menu Deus ex Machina Foreshadowing Irony Personification Plot Twist Red Herring Write Your Script For Free → When was the last time you shed a tear while watching a film? Can you recall the specific scene? Many describe this as a “good cry.” How… Continue reading What is Catharsis — Definition & Examples for Storytellers

What is a Video Essay? The Art of the Video Analysis Essay

In the era of the internet and Youtube, the video essay has become an increasingly popular means of expressing ideas and concepts. However, there is a bit of an enigma behind the construction of the video essay largely due to the vagueness of the term. What defines a video analysis essay? What is a video essay… Continue reading What is a Video Essay? The Art of the Video Analysis Essay

How to Get a Film Permit — A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Creating a film is an exciting endeavor, but along the way it’s inevitable to hit logistical aspects that can discourage your ambitions. Film permits, for any filmmaker, can inevitably be one of these obstacles. Can I shoot here? What do I need to do to shoot here? Will I get in trouble? These are all fair… Continue reading How to Get a Film Permit — A Step-by-Step Breakdown

VFX vs. CGI vs. SFX — Decoding the Debate

If you’ve ever marveled at the breathtaking landscapes of Pandora in Avatar or the spellbinding battles in The Lord of the Rings, you’ve witnessed the magic of visual effects.  When looking into the nitty-gritty of how these famed visuals are created, filmmakers have utilized a combination of techniques such as CGI and VFX. But what’s the… Continue reading VFX vs. CGI vs. SFX — Decoding the Debate

What is Tragedy — Definition, Examples & Types Explained

Why do we find ourselves drawn to tales steeped in sorrow, where heroes crumble and hopes are dashed? This magnetic pull is the work of tragedy, a narrative mechanism that mirrors our own struggles against fate and the human condition. In this article, we’ll peel back the layers of tragedy in storytelling, journeying from its ancient… Continue reading What is Tragedy — Definition, Examples & Types Explained

What is Pacing in Writing — And Why It’s So Important

Pacing is an elusive yet pivotal element in storytelling, acting as the rhythm that governs the reader’s journey through the narrative. It dictates the rate at which a story unfolds, influencing the tension, mood, and emotional resonance. Without pacing, a story can have an awkward sense of movement and flow. The best writers and storytellers… Continue reading What is Pacing in Writing — And Why It’s So Important

What Does O.S. Mean in a Script & How to Use It

How to Format a ScreenplayOpen menu Scene Headings Sluglines Action / Description Dialogue Transitions TV Script Format 101 FREE Movie Scripts: StudioBinder Screenwriting Library Write Your Script for Free In scriptwriting for film and television, some numerous terms and abbreviations guide the narrative flow. One such term is O.S. But what does it mean, and… Continue reading What Does O.S. Mean in a Script & How to Use It

What is High Definition — History, Types & Impact

Although we often overlook it today, the breathtaking clarity of cinematography is a relatively recent development. Not too long ago, the images that graced the screens of cinemas and our homes were often filled with graininess and blurriness. However, everything changed with the advent of high-definition technology. High definition, or HD, is therefore not just a… Continue reading What is High Definition — History, Types & Impact

What is Bullet Time in Film — The Art of Extreme Slow-Mo

In the world of filmmaking, there are a variety of creative techniques that can enhance the storytelling and visual experience for viewers. One such technique is bullet time, which has become increasingly popular over the years. The technique makes time itself feel paused, allowing us, the viewers, to examine each detail in a scene that would… Continue reading What is Bullet Time in Film — The Art of Extreme Slow-Mo

Is Film School Worth It — Why You Should or Shouldn’t Go

The allure of the silver screen has captivated many, drawing aspiring filmmakers to pursue their dreams of directing blockbusters or crafting poignant indie films. Yet, as with many artistic careers, the path to success is not clearly defined, leading many to ponder: is film school worth it?  This question is particularly pressing in an era where… Continue reading Is Film School Worth It — Why You Should or Shouldn’t Go