Storytelling lessons from Pixar
With screenwriter and best selling author Dean Movshovitz
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Pixar is synonymous with great storytelling. Screenwriter Dean Movshovitz, author of Amazon Bestselling book Pixar Storytelling joined the Tuesdays with Morrisey podcast to discuss Pixarâs framework, process and why their stories are so effective. This was one of my favorite conversations to date as the lessons and stories that Dean shares resonate at such a deep, human level.
See the top takeaways below.
Top Takeaways
Pixarâs framework includes (1) adventurous life or death action, (2) an interpersonal bonding story and (3) a characterâs inner struggle.
Itâs not a formula as Pixar generally breaks or bends of the rules in each story. Some examples: in Inside Out, the bonding story is between a young girl and her emotions, in Ratatouille, the life or death action is a rat cooking in a French restaurant.
The effectiveness of Pixar in storytelling is that it leans into emotions and scenarios that are core to the human experience. They donât shy away from topics that are meaningful and challenging.
Resources:
Full List of Topics Covered:
The origin of the book
Why Pixarâs stories matter and resonate
Pixarâs storytelling framework
Differences between Pixarâs framework and others (e.g. Joseph Campbellâs heroes journey)
Pixarâs process and craft
Multi-layered stories
Deanâs screenwriting journey and dream projects
Applying Pixarâs lessons to our lives
Hope you enjoy the conversation, feel free to share and let me know if anything resonates with you in the comments.
-Adam