On Story

On Story is a compelling series from World that premiered in 2011. This show provides a unique window into the creative process behind some of the most popular and beloved movies and television shows. Aimed at serious enthusiasts of film and TV storytelling, it offers an enormous amount of insights and insider perspectives on the narrative and cinematic techniques used in Hollywood and beyond.

The series features a format that alternates between sit-down interviews and roundtable discussions, showcasing captivating dialogue with a myriad of esteemed screenwriters and directors who have shaped the industry. From Academy Award-winning filmmakers to budding scriptwriters, the show takes you behind the scenes to reveal the magic of storytelling on the big and small screens.

Every episode of On Story is like a mini film school, providing viewers with an enriching and educational journey through the process of storytelling. The series covers a wide spectrum of film genres and television series, including drama, comedy, romantic comedy, horror, science fiction, and more. Each episode focuses on a specific topic, such as character development, plot structure, themes, or setting, and presents practical examples from well-known films and series. This allows viewers to conveniently see how these fundamental elements of storytelling are executed in major productions.

The captivating aspect of On Story is the collection of personalities who appear on the show. These eminent personalities not only share their thought process that goes behind developing an idea into a screenplay but also reveal their personal journeys. They discuss ambitions, failures, hurdles, and success stories that led them to where they are today. These conversations inspire aspiring screenwriters and filmmakers, offering them real-world advice and wisdom gained through firsthand experiences in the industry.

The series devotes adequate time to each guest, giving them the freedom to delve deep into their stories. It doesn’t rush its interviews but instead adopts a relaxed pace that allows for natural, organic conversations. The dialogue often extends beyond the technical aspects of the job to offer personal insights and anecdotes, which add a comforting, human element to the otherwise formal atmosphere. Sharing their anecdotes, humorous experiences, and sometimes even divulging about their insecurities, the guests offer a relatable side of the world of cinema which generally seems unreachable.

Beyond educating viewers on the intricacies of filmmaking, On Story also serves as a platform to celebrate the power of story. It emphasizes the role of stories in reflecting and shaping culture and society, highlighting the impact and influence these creative products have beyond just entertainment.

Another remarkable feature of the show is the segments of short films by independent filmmakers aired at the end of some episodes. These short films, usually by student filmmakers, add another level of complexity to On Story. They reveal the sheer range of talent among emerging storytellers, often complementing the theme of the episode’s discussion, and allow viewers a chance to see how the concepts discussed in the episodes are applied in a storytelling format. This contributes to supporting the next generation of filmmakers and giving them a platform to showcase their talent.

Despite its significant focus on professional paradigms, On Story does not alienate casual viewers. Even if you are not a budding screenwriter or an enthusiastic film student, the show's approach to showing the importance of storytelling in daily life and how it shapes our understanding of the world is attractive. It's interesting to get a glimpse of the thought process that goes into creating the stories that significantly resonate with us.

On Story, since it started airing in 2011, has managed to invite a myriad of renowned screenwriters and filmmakers to discuss their craft. These intimate and enlightening exchanges serve to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and writers, providing an invaluable perspective from industry veterans with proven track records. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a seasoned professional, or simply someone who loves stories, On Story is an engaging deep dive into the philosophy and craft of storytelling as told by the masters of cinema and television.