Storytelling
Why The Queen’s Gambit Is Such Smart Visual Storytelling
How specific writing, filming, and editing choices turned this story about chess and addiction into a masterclass in visual storytelling.
Storytelling
Black Sails: How to Write Compelling Character Arcs
The ensemble cast of Black Sails proves that writing complex characters in pursuit of opposing goals creates highly compelling storytelling.
Storytelling
Neil Gaiman MasterClass Review: Is It Worth It?
A look at Neil Gaiman’s Masterclass: The Art of Storytelling — what does the course include, what are the highlights, and what’s missing?
Storytelling
The Storytelling Flaw That Ruined the New Star Wars Trilogy
There’s something missing from the new Star Wars trilogy, and without it, none of the characters can find satisfying closure.
Storytelling
Cobra Kai: How to Build Character Through Internal Conflict
Cobra Kai’s pilot episode shows why every villain thinks he’s the hero of his own story… and why he’s also his own worst enemy.
Storytelling
The Mystery Box Is Broken, and Here’s How to Fix It
From Lost to Game of Thrones to The Rise of Skywalker, the “mystery box” style of storytelling is coming up short. Here’s why — and how to fix it.
Storytelling
Is Booksmart One of the All-Time Best High School Comedies?
Booksmart, Olivia Wilde’s directorial debut, is a glorious mess, just like its characters… and it works.
Storytelling
Game of Thrones’s Biggest Surprise of All Was… a Satisfying Ending?
The final episode of Game of Thrones leaves no one entirely happy… and that’s exactly the way it should be.
Storytelling
How “The Bells” Ruins Several Major Character Arcs in Game of Thrones
In the penultimate Game of Thrones episode “The Bells,” the show explores the ugly side of war, power, and consequences — but is it good storytelling?
Storytelling
Why Game of Thrones’ Battle of Winterfell Is Such Disappointing Storytelling
In “The Long Night,” Game of Thrones — a story built on unpredictability, mystery, and sacrifice — has now completely diverged from what made it great.