Between 2014 and 2016, a YouTube channel known as Every Frame a Painting gained popularity for its 28 video essays analyzing various aspects of filmmaking. The creators, Taylor Ramos and Tony Zhou, discussed topics such as Robin Williams’ talent for blocking and movement in character portrayal, as well as Steven Spielberg’s subtle use of long takes. After a period of silence, the duo has returned with plans for a new series of video essays and the premiere of a short film at the Fantasia International Film Festival on July 20.
Their upcoming film, titled The Second, was written and directed by Ramos and Zhou and features actors Paul Sun-Hyung Lee and Ethan Hwan. While details about the movie are scarce, the festival’s website describes it as depicting “an alternate version of today’s world where dueling is still acceptable,” with the protagonist Philip being forced to act as a ‘Second’ on the day of his son’s duel.
Every Frame a Painting boasts over 2 million subscribers on YouTube and is credited with helping to establish video essays as a legitimate form of content on the platform. In addition to their YouTube channel, Ramos and Zhou also created the Netflix series Voir, which was produced by David Fincher and focused on video essays about film.
With the promise of new content on YouTube leading up to the premiere of their film, fans can expect a fresh batch of insightful videos from Ramos and Zhou in the near future. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis from these pioneering creators in the world of film essay.
