“The Lean Forward Moment” by Norman Hollyn is a comprehensive guide for filmmakers, screenwriters, and editors who want to create compelling and engaging stories across various media platforms. Hollyn, an experienced editor and professor, delves into the elements that make a story captivating and provides practical techniques to enhance storytelling in film, television, and digital media.
Key Highlights
Concept of the Lean Forward Moment:
- Hollyn introduces the idea of the “lean forward moment,” which refers to the point in a story when the audience becomes fully engaged and leans forward in their seats. He emphasizes the importance of identifying and crafting these moments to maintain audience interest.
Story Structure and Development:
- The book covers the fundamentals of story structure, including three-act structure, character arcs, and plot development. Hollyn provides insights into how to build a solid foundation for a story that resonates with audiences.
Editing Techniques:
- As a seasoned editor, Hollyn shares his expertise on editing techniques that can enhance storytelling. He discusses pacing, rhythm, and the use of cuts to create emotional impact and drive the narrative forward.
Collaboration and Communication:
- Hollyn highlights the importance of collaboration in filmmaking. He provides tips on effective communication with directors, writers, and other members of the production team to ensure a cohesive vision.
Practical Examples and Case Studies:
- The book is rich with practical examples and case studies from Hollyn’s own career and from well-known films and TV shows. These real-world examples illustrate how the concepts discussed can be applied in practice.
Adapting to Different Mediums:
- Hollyn explores the differences and similarities in storytelling across various mediums, including film, television, and web content. He offers strategies for adapting stories to fit the unique demands of each platform.
Exercises and Workshops:
- The book includes exercises and workshop activities designed to help readers practice and refine their storytelling skills. These hands-on activities encourage active learning and application of the concepts discussed.
About the Author
Norman Hollyn:
- Norman Hollyn was a highly respected film and television editor and a professor at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts. He worked on numerous notable projects, including “Heathers” and “Sophie’s Choice,” and contributed significantly to the field of editing.
- Hollyn was known for his ability to teach complex storytelling and editing techniques in an accessible and engaging manner. His contributions to film education have left a lasting impact on many aspiring filmmakers and editors.
“The Lean Forward Moment” is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in storytelling, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical tools to create engaging and compelling narratives.
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