The Videomaker Guide to Video Production, 5th Edition

17 Director's Chair: Secrets of Storytelling

Robert G. Nulph

Figure 17-1

“And Toto, Too?” Say any classic movie line, and everyone knows not only the movie you’re referring to, but also which scene and the character who spoke it.

Deep shadows, rustling leaves, the soft tense giggle of children dressed in bright colors and masks making their way past the local cemetery. The headstones throw long dense shadows across the dark fall grass and the children shiver as they rush past the iron fence, casting glances back over their shoulder. Suddenly a giant form looms before them blocking their path.

Thus begins another Halloween tale. Or does it? ...