Audible’s Post

I've been listening to 'The Sandman' on Audible this past week. The sound production is stunning, truly transporting, though the masterclass is in the vocal performances. A wonderful reminder of the power, dynamism and impact of great vocal storytelling. If you've heard some incredible performances this week, please share and spread the word! #voice #storytelling #vocalcoach #performance

So, I've heard this notion that Walter White of Breaking Bad is the best character ever written. This is a claim made by Robert McKee, a script doctor who you're probably familiar with. Later the claim was made about Saul Goodman. Of course, script doctors also say that all the best writing of today is taking place on prestige television. Ok, these shows are fun to watch, but this always seems utterly silly to me: The reason being that prestige shows are not true dramas, but melodramas, i.e., they aren't even going for realistic and deep characterization. They are designed to be elevated soap operas for entertainment. It seems the networks and streaming services understand this better than the script gurus - you need a much more niche audience if you want to write subtle, smart drama. This is why the best writing has always been, and will always be possible in novels, especially when it comes to characters, which can be explored in ways that are impossible in other mediums. Who was best character ever written? Well, my vote, especially among published works, goes to Ishmael of Moby Dick, by Herman Melville. I do not know of any character who is more fully, complexly and deeply realized, nor who feels more alive in the trifecta of mind, body and soul. The true voyage is the one the reader sets off on over the oceans of Ishmael's internal world. But, that's the thing: Moby Dick, despite being a classic, does not appeal to the masses. It is for the few who appreciate it. Like any transcendent work, it shouldn't be recommended to everyone. No 2 great works are alike, or like anything else. Yet, when I look at the supposed pinnacle of the arts today, prestige TV, they are all a lot like each other. Mostly it's amoral characters bitching about nonsense, where every scene is some silly, over the top fight - because "conflict" - and underpinning it all is a cynical worldview that all anyone cares about is their own selfish gain, and nothing really matters anyway. Then you have John Truby with his spurs in the sides of screenwriters yelling about narrative drive at all costs... Listen, while there is plenty to learn from script writing, don't try to make your novel into a TV show, as I see so many authors doing, intentionally or not. Use the strengths of the medium to do things TV can't do. Also, you aren't a committee, you're an individual, and your readers will find you in time. You can cater to an audience, but you don't have to. You can make one.

"A foolish man thinks he knows everything, a wise man knows he doesn't." Amanda Hocking (American Writer) In an industry where trends shift like sands and audience preferences are as unpredictable as the weather, it's evident that even the most seasoned agents, managers, studio executives, and heads of production are navigating uncharted waters. 😲 No playbook exists to guarantee success because NOBODY truly knows what will resonate with audiences next. The landscape of global consciousness, the evolution of societal norms, and the vast array of life experiences color what we crave in our cinematic experiences. The tired notion of recycling the "same but different" narratives may seem like a safe bet for risk-averse individuals, but what is art without risk? Place your trust in the universe, the ultimate risk-taker. And remember that some of the greatest works in literature, film, and television were initially rejected numerous times by those presumed to hold "industry expertise." Yet, they persevered, defied expectations, and ultimately TRIUMPHED. So, to all aspiring filmmakers, writers, and creatives out there, if you find yourself facing rejection letters or passes on your projects, take heart! The winds of change are sweeping through the world of cinema. BELIEVE, EXPECT, and KNOW that your unique stories have the power to shape the changing tides of the film industry. As energy flows where attention goes, remember to celebrate every victory, no matter how big or small! Each win brings you one step closer to the realization of your dreams. And finally, surround yourself with kindred spirits who uplift and inspire you. Those who can admit they don't KNOW but are willing to delve into the great UNKNOWN and take a chance. For as Socrates once said, "I am the wisest man in the world, for all I know is that I know nothing." #writers #filmmakers #screenwriters

Let's not just make movies...let's create movements! In the wonderful world of entertainment, writers wield the remarkable power to craft narratives that transcend mere storytelling. They can also reach into the heart of societal consciousness. As architects of imagination, we shoulder the responsibility to construct compelling scripts that not only entertain but also serve as catalysts for social change. Whether addressing systemic injustices, championing diversity, or delving into the complexities of human relationships, storytellers can weave tales that inspire empathy, provoke introspection, and foster a collective understanding of the world. We need more conscious content. Let's make more than just movies; let's create movements. #sie #socialimpact #socialimpactentertainment #gate #creatingchange #movies #creative #filmmaking #filmandtv #premastar #premastarproductions

What kind of subtitler would I be if I didn't talk about TV shows? Everyone has their favorite shows for various debatable reasons, but what is a show whose concept REALLY blew your mind? Here is one of the two audiovisual gems I have discovered lately (and they were made at home! 🇫🇷): 1️⃣ Calls, by Timothée Hochet This program pushes the boundaries of storytelling through its unique format. Each episode features various characters engaging in conversations over the phone. The rare visual elements both participate in your immersion and understanding of events, creating an unmatched experience. The narratives span across different genres (horror, thriller, science fiction, and drama) and explore themes such as love, loss, fear, and the unknown. As you progress, the connections between the characters and the underlying mysteries gradually unfold, leaving you with a sense of relief and satisfaction. This concept reshapes subtitling into a whole new challenge: how do you convey a message and emotions without any visual aids? All you can rely on is the voices. Your tone, theirs: a match made in heaven. What other choice do you have? PS: I will always advocate for the original version, but an American one, "Calls US", was created in 2021. I haven't seen it, all I know is that the story is supposed to be different. However, it can be a good way to experience the concept if the French version hasn't been adapted. 😊 Have you seen/listened to/experienced it? If not, did I manage to get you curious? 😉 #LITranslators #audiovisual #innovation #creativity #subtitling

This is a very insightful article from Steve Hinds. definitely worth a read!

🙋♂️Which is more important in a Video? 🔊Sound or 📽️Visual? The answer is, it depends on the kind of Video. Rule of Thumb, the MVP in your Video is ALWAYS the one carrying the Valuable information. 🎧if it's a Talking Head, then this is the Audio. 🌄if it's a Sahara Documentary, this is the Visual. Found the post helpful? 💾Save this post for your next Video! #videoproduction #videomarketing

Are you feeling uneasy or stifled? Consider exploring new creative options. It’s common to become disheartened or to sense a lack of creative satisfaction while we await the opportunity to get our films made, secure an acting role, complete our script, or reach the conclusion of any project we’re currently focused on. One option to explore during these stagnant moments is to engage in fresh, smaller-scale projects or experiments. Often, participating in different creative endeavors beyond our usual activities can enhance the value, depth and significance of our main interests. What additional activities do you engage in (or could you pursue) to maintain your creativity? . #BraveMaker #BraveMakerAffirmations #filmmakers #actors #Screenwriters

Think about how to express visual elements of your audio documentary in a subtle way. This helps the audience imagine the story you are telling. If you have a very visual idea that you want to talk about think how, without visuals, you can make the audience understand who or what you are speaking about.

Ever wonder why Hollywood is so difficult for writers? Here is a key reason. It incentivizes douchebaggery. This is because no one knows the value of a script. It's virtually impossible to imagine what's on the page as a fully-performed, cast, costumed, lit, location scouted, edited film. I've been Sopranos-obsessed lately so consider that pilot script. No one in their right mind could have known the show would evolve into something so brilliant. This was no doubt fueled by the sheer humanity of Edie Falco and James Gandolfini at its heart. Those two elevated the writers room, each set and the performances of the cast. This caused a creative chain reaction that made the show exponentially better. It's a kind of miracle. So, if there are 10,000 promising scripts moving around desks throughout Hollywood, factors other than artistic quality come into play, most notably sheer force of will. The writers and producers who are the most driven, egotistical, narcissistic, cunning, brutal, amoral, well-funded, well-connected and even downright sociopathic have an edge. They will get it done. But what makes a writer talented is empathy, sensitivity, kindness, humility, integrity, the ability to inhabit various beings and see their point-of-view. We love great writers in large part for the decency of their souls. This is not to say there are no good people at the highest levels in LA. But let's just say few would head my list of Thanksgiving invites. I once had a meeting with an executive at a major studio. I was pitching an idea for a comedy, Don of the PTA, about a mob boss in witness protection who becomes president of his kid's PTA and reverts to his old ways, thrashing and extorting all the parents. This executive rudely dismissed my idea and bleated about a project he was developing with well-established IP. He felt he was a genius cause he bought a TV series with a "built-in" audience. This was years ago but is of course all the rage now - prequels, sequels, remakes, movies about toys, etc., etc. Anyway he struck me as such a soul-less, arrogant total dick that I couldn't help but ask, "Who are you to decide what stories America and the world watch?" That's actually a huge responsibility in the development of civilization. He glared at me and barked, "I'm someone with TASTE!" I looked over his unimpressive striped Polo, 15 extra pounds of sloppy lard and the rolls of fat where a chin should be - and our meeting came a most unfortunate conclusion. But here's thing thing. This arsehole has now become a successful screenwriter. I know this is not pleasant to discuss. But this is why I started Blackbelt Writing Academy. Because storytellers are in the business of telling the truth. And MFA programs are in the business of selling degrees for 100s of 1000s of dollars. If you like this post, smash the like button, punch the share button, throw your phone at a neighbor and knock over your desk.