Tom Bissell, an accomplished writer known for his work in video games, books, and TV, discusses his journey from war reporting to crafting the final episodes of 'Andor.' He shares behind-the-scenes insights on balancing narrative complexity in video games and television. The conversation explores the emotional weight of creating character arcs, the pressures of storytelling, and the creative evolution shaped by industry challenges. Bissell also reflects on his literary influences and the unique challenges faced during the pandemic era.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Early Podcast Hosted by Tom
Tom Bissell hosted one of the earliest podcasts by letting Jason and Kirk record at his Hollywood apartment while he was away.
This event marks a unique origin story for Triple Click's earlier incarnation.
insights INSIGHT
Game Writing vs. TV Writing
Game writing differs from TV by requiring writing during production amid gameplay and level design changes.
TV scripts are more fixed with clearer alignment, while games must adapt to evolving interactive elements.
insights INSIGHT
Challenges in Game Storytelling
Video game storytelling often sacrifices emotional truth for spectacle and gameplay considerations.
Game narratives are repeatedly adjusted as gameplay elements change, causing story stability challenges.
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This novel by Hilary Mantel delves into the lives of key figures of the French Revolution, including Georges Danton, Camille Desmoulins, and Maximilien Robespierre. It follows their journeys from their provincial beginnings to their roles in the tumultuous and bloody events of the Revolution. The book meticulously details their personal and political struggles, highlighting the complexities of their relationships and the eventual downfall of their friendships amidst the Reign of Terror. Mantel's work is characterized by its detailed historical accuracy and its ability to bring the era to life through the stories of these historical figures[1][4][5].
The House of Government
Yuri Slezkine
Yuri Slezkine's 'The House of Government' tells the epic story of the Soviet elite who lived in a massive Moscow apartment building, exploring their rise and fall through the lens of millenarian cults. The book delves into the personal and public lives of Bolshevik true believers, from their conversion to Communism to the eventual loss of faith and the collapse of the Soviet Union. Drawing on letters, diaries, and interviews, Slezkine crafts a vivid account of the Soviet experiment and its tragic end.
James
Percival Everett
Percival Everett's "James" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that reimagines the classic tale of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of Jim. Everett's writing is both sharp and witty, blending humor and pathos to create a compelling narrative. The novel explores themes of race, freedom, and identity in a way that is both timely and timeless. Everett's unique voice and perspective offer a fresh take on a familiar story, challenging readers to reconsider their assumptions about race and American history. The novel's unexpected twists and turns keep readers engaged until the very end, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.
Triple Click brings on Tom Bissell, writer of video games, books, TV shows and the final three episodes of Andor season 2. They talk about how he went from reporting in Iraq to writing dialogue for Battlefield, his journey to become a writer on Andor, and what it was like to pen the conclusion to one of the most acclaimed TV shows of all time.
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