What are Symbols in Film?
The use of symbolism in filmmaking is incredibly common. Oftentimes, symbols that are used in film are not even recognized immediately by the “average” moviegoer. Throughout cinema, the use of symbols and elements of symbolic meaning has been incredibly profound. We’ve seen symbols in everything. From the colors and objects included in a film. To […]
What is a Second Banana?
Much of the film industry is about how actors and cast members are ranked against one another. It’s an incredibly competitive industry! Phrases and idioms are constantly being devised for the purpose of defining different roles. And to address different traditions. The nickname “second banana” is one that comes up semi-frequently. But what is a […]
Should You Designate a Transition in a Spec Script?
Spec scripts are written for a variety of purposes, especially by relatively new or aspiring filmmakers that are just looking for some added practice or to build up a library of content they can share with producers or filmmakers that may have interest. Spec scripts are incredibly popular, many aspiring screenplay writers will spec many […]
What is a Roadshow Film?
Over the years since cinema became popularized about 100 years ago in the 1920s there have been many different ways for movies and films to be presented, booked, and advertised. Different eras certainly had different ideas in store as to what would attract moviegoers to the cinema and what type of advertisements would lead to […]
Should You Include Camera Directions in a Spec Script?
Should You Include Camera Directions in a Spec Script? Learning how to write, and format, a spec script that will get your screenwriting skills recognized is certainly something that many aspiring filmmakers focus a lot of energy on. The spec script is important because, with any luck, you’ll be able to sell it and make […]
What is a Forced Call on a Film Set?
Filmmakers are certainly busy individuals that work hard. Both cast and crew frequently find themselves working incredibly long hours on the set, more often than not, away from home. Because the industry is so busy, and the risks of overworking are so profound. Unions have rules in place to ensure film industry workers are afforded […]
What is Reverse Motion in Film?
Various effects are used in filmmaking to achieve the desired effects on the screen. Reverse motion photography, or reverse action is a frequently used cinematography effect that can be produced in a variety of ways. But what is reverse motion in film? And how can this effect be incorporated into a film? Either as an […]
What’s the Difference Between a Rough Draft and a Shooting Script in Filming?
Writing a script is certainly a task that aspiring filmmakers have to tackle, many will attempt the process several times over with the consistent hopes of having their specs noticed and possibly even selling a script so that it can be produced professionally. Throughout it all, screenwriters will write many different scripts over the lifetime […]
How Do Environmental Sounds Typically Function in a Film?
In any environment, whether you’re in the jungle or you’re at the beach. If you’re sitting in a crowded restaurant with friends. Or you’re in a quaint coffee shop alone with a book. There are sounds taking place all around. Some settings have very little sound, others very loud sounds. In some environments the sound […]
What Does Second Fiddle Mean?
Throughout the history of filmmaking and the film industry there have been many different terms given to the various roles, responsibilities, and situations that take place on the film set. Since 1939, the term second fiddle is one of several alternative meaning terms that has been bounced around film sets among cast and crew. Learning […]