Karel FG Segers

Karel Segers wrote his first produced screenplay at age 17. Today he is a story analyst with experience in acquisition, development and production. He has trained students worldwide, and worked with half a dozen Academy Award nominees. Karel speaks more European languages than he has fingers on his left hand, which he is still trying to find a use for in his hometown of Sydney, Australia. The languages, not the fingers. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

Cinematic Storytelling (9)

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Sheila O’Malley’s post on a close-up of Bud White in L.A. Confidential reminded us that characters with dimensions, with varying inner conflicts and emotions – a.k.a. depth – foster the right circumstances for great acting through close-ups. CLOSE-UPS, BABY! Of a moment in which we watch Bud, Sheila writes: “He is totally still. He doesn’t blink. He just stares. … Read more

I want to talk to you.

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For most of the year, the posts on this blog have been from guests. And where I signed for them myself, they were mostly more academic, analytical pieces. Unlike other bloggers, I rarely use a personal voice. Insecurity is a big hurdle, I must admit. My fellow bloggers are just amazing in their use of … Read more

Cinematic Storytelling (5)

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First, the opening scene from Hampton Fancher’s Blade Runner. He never used “we see” or camera angles, but his writing clearly implies with a Secondary Heading “THE EYE” that the scene opens with an extreme CU of an eye, which is essential to the story. His descriptions help visualize (without taking you out of the … Read more

Video: The Formula For A Winning Trailer

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All trailers look the same. Why?
Because great movies have the same story components. [debate follows]
Here, in the greatest simplicity, it is shown what to incorporate in your story that needs to go in the trailer. Well, kind of.

With thanks to Louise Lee Mei and Niels Abercrombie.

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Cinematic Storytelling (4)

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Below is yet another example of narrative paintings. This one by Wes Christensen and titled “John’s Dilemma.” As strange as I know this will sound, the painting above brings to mind two films: The Conversation and Raging Bull. THE CONVERSATION Notice all of the straight, rigid lines – the walls, the shelves, the books, the television, and even … Read more