Ken Burns On The Art of Storytelling

Today, I'm thrilled to host legendary filmmaker Ken Burns. Join us as we explore his unparalleled storytelling and the history that shapes us all.

0:00 - Introduction to Ken Burns as a master storyteller and his influence on filmmaking

1:13 - The importance of humility and the flaws of heroes in storytelling.

3:05 - The subtractive nature of storytelling and finding the essence of a narrative.

4:12 - Ken Burns shares advice on storytelling: authenticity, perseverance, and the hard work behind the craft.

6:52 - Discussion of his signature style, adaptability, and the broader impact of his work.

11:22 - reflections on his collaboration with Steve Jobs and the creation of the Ken Burns Effect.

14:09 - The role of humility in leadership and history, with examples from American figures.

20:30 - Overview of Burns’ current and future projects, including films on the American Revolution, Reconstruction, and civil rights.

28:05 - Details on the iterative process of filmmaking, from research to editing and final production.

38:00 - Burns’ philosophy on storytelling as an ongoing learning process.

45:00 - Burns’ reflections on the broader impact of storytelling, the importance of space and setting, and his creative inspirations.

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