Learn the Art of Storytelling with Free 'Pixar in a Box' | No Film School

Back in 2015, Pixar joined forces with Khan Academy to launch a free online course about animation called "Pixar in a Box." For the third season, Pixar and Khan Academy have just announced their new lesson plan, The Art of Storytelling.

Now, Pixar in a Box is geared toward kids. As their announcement explains, "Through interactive exercises, your child will analyze the plot, world, and characters in their favorite films, and start developing storytelling superpowers."

But who says we can't all learn about storytelling from Pixar? Check out the intro video below with Pixar director Pete Docter and story artist Valerie LaPointe.

The Art of Storytelling will cover six lessons, each featuring Pixar story artists explaining their process:

Lesson 1: We Are All Storytellers
Lesson 2: Character
Lesson 3: Structure
Lesson 4: Visual Language
Lesson 5: Filmmaking Grammar
Lesson 6: Storyboarding

The Art of Storytelling from Pixar in a Box is free on Khan Academy, so don't be shy about checking it out. The remaining lessons will be released throughout the year. You can sign up with Khan Academy to receive email alerts when new lessons become available. Also, be sure to check out previous Pixar in a Box lessons covering several animation topics, including character modeling, virtual cameras, effects, patterns, and much more.

Featured image: Disney/Pixar.

Source: Khan Academy

pixar Pixar in a Box storytelling Khan Academy animation characters

Mark Duplass Has Some Thoughts on Sundance Acceptance

Mark Duplass Shares His Thoughts on Sundance Acceptance

The Calvary King delivers a hopeful message to filmmakers who didn't get into Sundance.

Mark Duplass has always been a filmmaker's filmmaker. He famously delivered his "The Cavalry is Not Coming" speech at SXSW as a call to action for independent filmmakers to stop waiting and start shooting. Duplass also historically creates and works on small-budget indie projects, including being a key member of the lo-fi, bare-bones mumblecore movement. He's also a charismatic actor who brings a relatable ethos to every role he plays—not to mention seems like an overall cool dude.

We love Mark Duplass.

All the above considered, it's no surprise to see Duplass take to social media with an encouraging statement following the recently announced 2025 Sundance lineup this past Wednesday. Duplass, hot off positive reviews for the recently released The Creep Tapes on Shudder, warmly comforted filmmakers that if you happened to apply to Sundance and weren't selected, hey, that's okay. They curate 15,775. It happens.

We all know rejection sucks, but don't sweat it. Be proud of your project no matter what. And watch Mark Duplass's full snippet of encouraging wisdom below.

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