The Screenwriting Life with Meg LeFauve and Lorien McKenna 235 | Mike Jones (Soul, Dream Productions) Returns: What Makes a Great Act 3?
Jan 30, 2025
In a candid conversation, Mike Jones, a Pixar story genius behind hits like Soul and Luca, shares insights into what creates a great act three in storytelling. He dives into the nuances of crafting emotional endings and the importance of relatable characters, using examples from his work. Jones discusses the challenges of directing animation and the dynamics of collaboration. He also reflects on the balance between self-centered characters and vulnerability, emphasizing how personal experiences shape profound narratives.
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Dream Productions Genesis
- Mike Jones discusses the genesis of Dream Productions, a Pixar series.
- It stemmed from Pete Docter's idea for a mockumentary-style show about the dream creators from Inside Out.
Authentic Pixar Storytelling
- Meg LeFauve praises Dream Productions, highlighting its humor, emotional depth, and authenticity.
- She points out the clever inside jokes about filmmaking and the writer's room.
Nuance in Animation
- Mike Jones emphasizes the importance of nuance in storytelling.
- Animators, as actors of the characters, greatly benefit from reading complete scripts, action lines, and actor recordings.