Verisimilitude (“similar to truth”) is the semblance and believability of reality within a fictional work. It is the quality that makes a narrative, whether in literature or film, appear true to life, believable, and convincing to the audience, even within fictional or fantastical contexts. Achieving verisimilitude involves consistent internal logic, relatable emotions, and plausible scenarios,… Continue reading What is Verisimilitude in Film? Definition, Types & Examples.
literary element
What is Style in Film? From Auteur to Genre to Movements
When we talk about style in film, we mean the distinctive techniques and methods screenwriters and directors use to shape a film’s unique aesthetic and expressive qualities. Style is often connected to the auteur concept and includes choices such as cinematography, editing, mise-en-scène, sound, and narrative techniques (style of writing). Style and the Auteur Style… Continue reading What is Style in Film? From Auteur to Genre to Movements
What is Tone in Film? Definition & Examples
A movie’s tone is the overall mood, atmosphere, and emotional quality conveyed through dialogue, visuals, music, and pacing. Tone can range from dark and suspenseful to light and humorous, and it must be consistently maintained to ensure coherence and impact. The tone is a guiding compass for directors, actors, and crew to align their creative… Continue reading What is Tone in Film? Definition & Examples
Narrator Types in Film & Literature. Definition and Examples
Learn about the various types of narrators in film and literature, including examples.
What is a Backstory in Film? Definition & Examples
The backstory is the history and experiences of characters or events that precede the main narrative. It includes past events and circumstances shaping characters’ actions, motivations, and psychological states. While it may not always be explicitly stated within the narrative, a well-crafted backstory can provide depth and authenticity to the story. Backstories provide context to… Continue reading What is a Backstory in Film? Definition & Examples
What is the Resolution in Film? Definition & Examples
The resolution is the screenplay section, where the plot’s conflicts and tensions are resolved, and the story concludes. A resolution typically follows the climax and should not be confused with the denouement, which comes after the resolution (though it is sometimes intertwined with it). See also the three-act story structure. Characteristics of a Resolution Writing… Continue reading What is the Resolution in Film? Definition & Examples
In medias res in Film. Meaning and Examples.
In medias res is a Latin phrase that means “into the middle of things.” It is a narrative technique where a story begins amid the action, often at a critical point rather than at the story’s beginning. Starting in the middle, writers create immediate interest and tension, engaging the audience from the first page or… Continue reading In medias res in Film. Meaning and Examples.
What is a Dynamic Character? Definition & Examples from Film
A dynamic character undergoes significant internal change throughout the story. This transformation can be in their personality, attitude, beliefs, or other personal aspect. Dynamic characters are often central to the narrative, as their growth or change usually drives the plot and engages the audience. A dynamic character is the opposite of a static character. Characteristics… Continue reading What is a Dynamic Character? Definition & Examples from Film
What is Diction in Writing? Definition & Examples from Film
Diction in writing is simply the author’s choice and use of words and phrases. It is a key element in writing style, affecting the written piece’s tone, voice, and overall communicative effectiveness. Choose your Words Wisely In essence, diction comes down to you playing with words in writing, and the context influences the size of… Continue reading What is Diction in Writing? Definition & Examples from Film
Character Types Comparison (Flat, Static, Round & Dynamic)
Flat, static, round, and dynamic characters are terms used to describe different aspects of characters in literature and film. While they can overlap, they refer to distinct characteristics. First, here’s a quick overview of each type: Contrasting Differences Flat characters are the opposite of round characters, and static characters are the opposite of dynamic ones.… Continue reading Character Types Comparison (Flat, Static, Round & Dynamic)