Watch: Emulate Paul Thomas Anderson's Shot List | No Film School

Like every great auteur, Paul Thomas Anderson boasts a distinctive cinematic style. Many elements contribute to the PTA-ness of his oeuvre, including his decisions in editing, thematic material, and deeply human characters. But one of the most distinguishing factors of all is his cinematography.

Long-time collaborator Robert Elswit has shot almost all of PTA's films. (The Master was shot by Mihai Mălaimare Jr., while PTA recently decided to shoot his upcoming project himself.) Together with Elswit, PTA has crafted a strong visual style, such that even his music videos have his name written all over them.

A new video from StudioBinder breaks down the mechanics of some of PTA's most memorable shots, including that famous tracking shot from There Will Be Blood in which Daniel Plainview (Daniel Day-Lewis) runs from an oil rig explosion with his son in his arms. (Steadicam with a telephoto lens.)

Featured image from 'Boogie Nights'

Paul Thomas Anderson shot list PTA Robert Elswit Video Essay StudioBinder

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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