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Dialog is one of the best known, and obvious, elements in a film. But the language of cinema is more subtle and sophisticated than dialog alone. From Metropolis to Kill Bill, this remarkable reference guide reveals 100 of the most potent storytelling tools of the medium, compelling cinematic devices beyond dialog for screenwriters and directors to pump up action, develop characters and energize a motion picture’s plot.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- 17 basic building blocks of cinematic language
- 100 examples of cinematic techniques that create layering and more powerful scenes
- 100 definitions of cinematic tools
- How to use sound, picture and camera motion as storytelling devices
- How to show character change without using dialog
- How filmmakers marry story and technique
All this and more illustrated by over 500 frame grabs and 76 script excerpts from the most memorable moments in film history.
The mastery of cinematic storytelling unites all successful film artists who share a fluency in the sight, sound and motion of movies. If you want to take your screenplay or your film appreciation to a higher level, this book will get you there.
What people say
“A smart, analytical guide. Van Sijll understands what makes great movies work. A first-rate roadmap and a veritable tour de force of succinct writing.”
Jake Eberts,
Executive Producer: Hope and Glory, Driving Miss Daisy, Dances with Wolves, A River Runs Through It, Chicken Run
“A screenwriting book with an original and insightful approach. Jennifer van Sijll takes you step by step through the complex transfer from blank page to motion picture. I can finally show a book to my mother and say, ‘This is what I do for a living.’”
Larry Karaszewski,
Writer: Ed Wood, The People Vs Larry Flynt
“A powerful and evocative guide for screenwriters and filmmakers alike.”
Frank Beddor,
Producer: There’s Something About Mary