The Visual Story by Bruce Block

     The Visual Story presents the basic visual components found in every moving or still picture we see: space, line, shape, tone, color, movement, and rhythm. After hearing these components the average person may be taken back to the days of practicing the use of the primary color wheel in middle school art class, but Bruce Block has more to offer the reader than how to color inside the lines. Bruce not only defines these visual components to the reader, but describes how to use them to create certain moods in works of art. The author provides examples for each component and assigns the best kind of homework - watching classic movies.
     For me The Visual Story has done two things 1) given me a concise formula for approaching visual design pieces, and 2) made me appreciate the incredible amount of skill that goes into directing visual art. It was very rewarding for me to read this book during the Academy Award season, where the world's best visual artists showcase their work for everyone to see. I look forward to watching many of the nominated films (Birdman, The Grand Budapest Hotel, The Theory of Everything, The Imitation Game, and Selma) in the coming weeks and analyzing them using Bruce's visual components.
     It's easy to skim through The Visual Story as it is less than 300 pages and contains many pictures and diagrams, however it is a book that is best digested slowly. Take some time between chapters and look for examples of what Bruce describes out in the world. You will begin to see things differently, and possibly come away with a better understanding of yourself as a result.