Monday, October 18, 2010

Espresso, not Expresso

I was always wondering what the different types of espresso beverages were and could never get a definitive answer out of anyone.  Well, I finally found this nifty little chart courtesy of http://www.buzzfeed.com/jonah/espresso-chart that explains it nicely.  Enjoy!

Coffee Chart

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Story by Robert McKee

robert_mckeeI just finished reading the book Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee.  He came to town about 3 years ago to teach, but little did I know who the world renowned teacher really was.  Well, I was in for a surprise during the course of his seminar.  It was probably one of the most mind bending, yet informative weekends I have been to, just ask anyone who has taken the course already.  Being sick during the whole weekend didn’t help my situation.

Since I have started writing, I have read several books on screenwriting.  They have all helped me to learn the basics of screenwriting, the history of Hollywood and how writers got their start as well as how the industry has changed over the last century.  Robert McKee’s book concentrates on more of the science behind story.  Although it is tailored towards the screenwriter, his techniques can be used for all types of writing.  My eyes were opened after finishing the book and it allowed me to see the difference between good writing and great writing.

I encourage anyone who is looking into making their storytelling and communication better by picking up this book or audio book.  It’s not a difficult read, but I think it will open your eyes to ‘story’ like no other book has.

An excerpt from Robert McKee’s Story Seminar

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Movie Posters: Drew Struzan

Growing up watching films, I have always been fascinated by movie posters and the art behind them.  The ones that really caught my eye were the realistic, illustrated ones that were best suited for the film of spic proportions.  I figured that nowadays they might have taken a photo and used some sort of impressionist effect to get that painted look, but to my surprise and delight, these posters are still hand drawn or painted and on top of that, they are all done by the same person!  That man is Drew Struzan.

Titan Books has now released a compilation of his work in a new book called The Art of Drew Struzan.  Press Release: http://titanbooks.com/blog/out-now-art-drew-struzan/

I just thought I would share the info.  Please take a look at some of his work.  Here are a few of my favourites.

Star_Wars_Trilogy_850

bttf

american_tail

alt

 indycrusade

Just how does he make these masterpieces? Take a look here.