

BPS 434: How Pixar’s Story Secrets Can Transform Your Filmmaking Process with Brit Cruise
7 snips Aug 28, 2025
Brit Cruise, an educator and filmmaker behind Pixar in a Box at Khan Academy, shares his journey from editing videos with dual VCRs to blending storytelling with science education. He unveils how Pixar connects math and physics to filmmaking, demonstrating the real-world applications of classroom concepts. Brit emphasizes that creativity thrives on embracing the unknown and discusses the upcoming curriculum, allowing students to create their own animated shorts. This conversation is a treasure trove for filmmakers, educators, and those passionate about innovative learning!
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Childhood Tinkering Sparked Filmmaking
- Brit Cruise started editing with two VCRs and jury-rigged audio from an early computer as a child.
- This early tinkering led him into explanation-style videos and shaped his creative path.
Block Distractions To Protect Focus
- Eliminate context switches to reclaim hours and protect focused creative time.
- Try removing or limiting smartphone use and schedule large uninterrupted blocks for deep work.
Use Two Deep Work Sessions Daily
- Structure your day into two long creative runs and one day for meetings.
- Use fixed stop times (e.g., stop at 4pm) to force planning and sharpen focus.