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Over the Shoulder: A Freelancer's Guide to Telling Stories and Editing Films

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Struggling to give your stories impact in a world flooded with content?

Unlock the art of unforgettable storytelling with Mark Solomon's wisdom, honed over 30 years in Hollywood's elite editing rooms.

Are you vying to leave an indelible mark that sticks in the memory?

What if there was a roadmap, passed down from a master storyteller who's stood shoulder-to-shoulder with cinematic legends?

A guide not just about crafting tales, but infusing them with the emotion to mesmerize and endure?

Envision your narrative not just being heard, but resonating long after the final scene fades to black.

Open a treasure trove of storytelling mastery, distilled from the cutting rooms of iconic films like Shrek, Chicken Run, Space Jam, and the Eddie award-nominated Frankenweenie.

Inside this illuminating guide, you'll embark on a journey through the craft of visual storytelling, armed

An insider's perspective on the storytelling crisis – Understand the unique challenges of today's content-saturated world and why mastering the art of storytelling is the key. (begin with insights and inspiration).A comprehensive, easy-to-apply framework for captivating storytelling – Explore Mark Solomon's tried and tested strategies, fine-tuned through decades of collaboration with titans like Tim Burton and Mel Gibson.Secrets to constructing memorable stories – Delve into the mechanics of contrast, cause and effect, suspense, and surprise, along with potent techniques from the Japanese stage that elevate and refine your narrative.Universal storytelling tools – Whether you're directing a blockbuster, creating digital content, or launching a brand, discover the keys to engaging your audience across any medium.Practical advice and real-world anecdotes – Learn from Solomon's freelance career and the lessons gleaned from the front lines with a Hollywood film editor.Bonus resources for ongoing growth – Gain access to invaluable materials that support your storytelling journey, from work/life balance to tapping into your creative resources.And much more!

Don't let your stories fade into the background. Seize the opportunity to stand out, connect deeply, and leave a legacy of unforgettable narratives.

Why settle for being just another storyteller? Begin your transformation today and craft stories that not only captivate but resonate across the globe. Your path to storytelling mastery is just a book away!

Dive into the heart of cinematic storytelling, unlock your potential, and emerge ready to enchant the Scroll up and click "Add to Cart" now!

144 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 10, 2024

3 people are currently reading
14 people want to read

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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
Profile Image for Marz Hare.
109 reviews4 followers
Read
November 3, 2024
An insightful book on storytelling, specifically for film editing, but applicable to other forms of creative writing.

It is short and to the point, and also filled with interesting ideas to tell stories that matter.

My favourite takeaways were conveying information through contrast, and the guided imagination techniques that Solomon suggests for "contacting the muse".

Thank you for the ARC!
Profile Image for Tara Stone.
Author 4 books54 followers
March 19, 2024
Great tidbits for aspiring film editors

I have such great admiration for those who have been in the Hollywood trenches and look for ways to make it easier for newcomers to navigate the landscape. Solomon offers fantastic storytelling tips as well as practical advice on pursuing a career in the industry. Highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Matt Rudnitsky.
Author 2 books21 followers
platypus-publishing
April 12, 2024
In the realm of film and visual storytelling, "Over the Shoulder" emerges as a beacon of insight and inspiration. Mark Solomon, with a storied career that includes editing heavyweight films like "Shrek" and "Chicken Run," offers a treasure trove of wisdom accumulated over three decades in Hollywood. This book isn't just about the mechanics of film editing; it's a heartfelt promise fulfilled, a guide imbued with Solomon's passion for storytelling and his gratitude towards the mentors who shaped his journey.

"Over the Shoulder" is a masterclass in weaving compelling visual narratives, with Solomon delving into the essence of story construction, the art of contrast, cause and effect, and even incorporating principles from Japanese stage techniques to enhance storytelling. But Solomon's advice transcends the editing suite. He addresses the holistic challenges of the creative process, from awakening intuition to achieving work/life balance, making his advice relevant to anyone with a story to tell, whether in film, online content, or entrepreneurial ventures.

For film students, video editors, and aspiring visual storytellers, Solomon's book is a must-read. It not only demystifies the editing process but also highlights the importance of personal relationships and creative intuition in carving out a successful career in a fiercely competitive field. The "outtakes" section at the end of each chapter serves as a useful recap, ensuring readers can easily digest and apply Solomon's insights.

In "Over the Shoulder," Mark Solomon doesn't just share editing tips; he offers a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to make their mark in the world of visual storytelling. Whether you're dreaming of Hollywood or simply want to craft more memorable content, Solomon's field guide is an essential addition to your creative toolkit. Dive into "Over the Shoulder" today and take the first step towards mastering the art of visual storytelling.
Profile Image for Sue.
1,750 reviews140 followers
March 28, 2024
Hey there, storytellers! If you're tired of your tales falling flat and want to learn how to make them sizzle with excitement, then Over the Shoulder: A Freelancer's Guide to Telling Stories and Editing Films is your new best friend! Written by the legendary Mark Solomon, this book is like having a Hollywood insider whispering secrets in your ear. From unraveling the mysteries of suspense to mastering the art of surprise, Solomon breaks down the craft of storytelling in a way that's both informative and insanely fun. Trust me, after reading this book, you'll be armed with the tools to captivate audiences and leave them begging for more. So what are you waiting for? Grab a copy of Over the Shoulder and get ready to take your storytelling game to the next level!
Profile Image for Abigail L..
1,729 reviews123 followers
March 29, 2024
Over the Shoulder is a great guide for anyone passionate about storytelling. With wisdom garnered from decades in Hollywood's editing rooms, the author provides readers with a comprehensive roadmap to crafting unforgettable narratives. What makes this book stand out is its practicality—each chapter is filled with actionable advice and real-world anecdotes that make the art of storytelling feel accessible to all. As someone who loves to tell stories, I found myself constantly inspired and eager to apply the author's techniques to my own work.
Profile Image for T.N. Traynor.
Author 20 books45 followers
February 25, 2024
Interesting

If you're a wannabe editor this book is probably a must-read.
Packed with nuggets of story telling advice.
Features the authors personal journey into the business to help others along the way.
Not sure why the paperback cover has been used where the ebook cover should be?? But don't let that put you off, the inside is professional.
1 review
February 17, 2024
“Half as long is 5x as good!”

This book practices what it teaches. Armed with sharp aphorisms and an experiential point of view, its wit will now hound my every written word.
100 reviews2 followers
February 22, 2024
Amazed

Wow!!!! This book has given me so many insights and creative thinking, it gave me a bit more on my thoughts about how to connect with the audience. Thank you author!
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews

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