How I Make Video Essays

[@AdamSoucyDrums]

Thank you Monty, for confirming that you are, in fact, my dad

[@dedstring]

This is incredibly needed for folks like me who have always wanted to do essays like this but dont really know where to start Thankyou monty

[@axolotlaristotle]

Smaller KZbin Video Essayist here wanting to chat about my own process a bit just because of the interesting differences (Hope Monty won't be mad). I don't really do gaming vids much anymore but when I did, I would always make sure to allocate a block of time to watch over the clips I had just got after my play session to sort and name them. I found it helped me avoid burnout when I'd finish playing the whole game and had hours of generically named footage to scour over. I mainly do politics and philosophy now and grab a lot of clips and news articles from the internet. If you also get references and evidence like that do not be like me in the early days and have 70 tabs open on your phone/pc with your different sources or in the middle days having a separate word doc of out of context links. Nowadays I usually hyperlink them into my script so when I'm starting work on editing a video, I know exactly what to show or play during that segment because the link is literally on it, and I don't have to scour through multiple folders or tabs. I know Monty listed a few paid sources to get stock footage but if you can't afford it or do not want to invest money for that pexels and pixabay are my go-to places for free stock footage. In your early channel days do what's fun for you and experiment with a lot of different formats and topics. My channel started out reviewing boomer shooters...then there was a let's play phase (please don't watch those). Eventually I settled into talking about philosophy and politics, but I still mix up the formats occasionally like when I made a pseudo-documentary of going to a furry convention to disprove conspiracies popularized by Joe Rogan. It ended up being my most popular video and while I still do video essays, I'm also planning to go to a ton of new conventions that I normally wouldn't which is actually broadening my horizons as a person. Never thought being a KZbinr would lead to personal growth but here we are. Thanks so much for making this video, Monty, also it was surprising to know that even though you're so huge you use the same Mic and audio program as me. Sometimes it's easy to imagine all the big channels have only the best and most professional equipment.

[@nina9565]

Here's a comment in honor to that guy complaining about people who ask others to like, comment and subscribe. Thanks for reminding us all how important it is.

[@hypertension2963]

Wait… Monty is at 100k subscribers? Take this only in the right way but I was actually surprised. Your quality, voice, personality, varied and equally interesting projects. I just assumed you had way more, you deserve way more. I can’t wait for all the people that are to come to fall in love with you content like we have.

[@zackgallardo]

I started watching your videos and tore through a bunch over a few days. Then I checked your sub count thinking you must have 1M plus simply due to the quality of the videos, but were still growing and I was SHOCKED. Flash forward three years and you have cresteed 100K. MY MAN! Keep up the hard work. Upvote and comment on every video @everyone. Algorithem... Monty is your dad.

[@quasarone3083]

I wasn't sure about this Monty Zander guy but the RGB gamer setup has me convinced he's a good one (Congrats on 100k, well earned!)

[@JDelwynn]

I have a format ready, idea for a thousand videos, I have the means to record, I make footage. Then I fire up a word document, have nothing to say, end up just describing what happens in the footage, decide it's shit and go do something else. Then I start over a couple of months later, ending up in the same position again and again. Maybe I'm just not up to it, I don't know. When I go to sleep I have all the dialogue, what to say and pacing in my head, but getting all that into writing is impossible, because the instant I pick up the keyboard, all of that drains out of my brain. I'm deeply impressed at anybody who can do this full-time.

[@93bleach]

I really enjoy the way you bring in primary sources in your videos. I feel like a lot of other essayists rely a bit too heavily on plot summary and general anlaysis without really backing up their points. Really looking forward to your Alan Wake II video btw.

[@RueUnderbite]

33:43 I watched your streams and watching how you take notes, write scripts and even edit gave me a lot of motivation to finally start working on my own videos, and I’ve learned a lot from watching those livestreams, so just want to say a big thanks for making those and this video too!

[@GlassHalfDead]

Banger m8, thanks!

[@Scubastev4242]

Congrats on 100k! You and Geller are literally the powerhouse of channels where I actually learn more about philosophy, politics, and other important subjects. I've become better from your influence and can't wait to chew through all your future videos. (P.S You've singlehandedly gotten me to go from hating Batman and DC to loving Batman and learning about the DC Universe. It's actually nuts.)

[@unlikelykaptain]

Seeing these behind the scenes streams for your process made me so excited, as I was in the middle of creating my very first video essay and my process was messy, disorganized, and inconsistent. I was so worried that I’d miss the streams and would miss the chance to get insight on how one of my favorite creators creates content that inspires me so much. Seeing the streams in a playlist and this video condensing the information is so great to see. Keep up the good work, Monty. You entertain and inspire more than you may think you do. You’re awesome! (Also I love that intro)

[@voidphish]

Gotta love the dance party at the end! Every video you make is a banger

[@monkeydo-js7vp]

I appreciate your dedication to both your average viewer and your patron.

[@JarethS]

About damn time you got your plaque, well deserved Monty :)

[@jessel9626]

Noobus Humanus is actually the series I started on because I thought it was a neat concept and I watched more because it turned out to be really sweet and constructive. Glad I ended up giving the channel a chance, you do great work!

[@Gnomageddon]

Perfect timing, im starting back up in content creation. So grats on the 100k!

[@BALDFURY69]

Just inspired me to fire up a word document and make a plan for a video idea i've been knocking around in my head for a while. Might end up going nowhere but im feeling inspired nonetheless, Cheers Monty!

[@AvocadoGamesForever]

Do it! Check out mine too! Just started myself.

[@Amandahoshall]

I think this video is a really good watch for someone who is starting out or is wanting to start KZbin in any capacity. While your scripted content may be different from a Minecraft Let's Play video the editing is still important and seeing where you struggle and how you may be stuck in your ways (I mean you are truely mad for making all the captions in Canva) its important to see how someone who has gotten success operates even if they are on the smaller end. Congrats Monty on 100K you deserve it I have seen almost every video since I first saw the Bioshock Critiques. You have inspired me to do things similar that I hope to expand soon and this video is pushing me even further. Thank you.

[@goblinkinggaming4916]

I'm working on my first critique and your live streams gave me so much good advice. Thank you so much for this.

[@AvocadoGamesForever]

Good luck! I’m working on my third video. Monty has been a huge help!

[@strawberik]

Thank you for this! I’m working toward starting a KZbin channel to talk about video games this year and recently have started digging into what the process will need to look like! Your channel was one of my fav new finds in 2023. Can’t wait to see what 2024 brings you!

[@jonathanchild7025]

Monty’s sexy voice is the best way to get over the Monday blues

[@pokemon11744]

Oh my. Gotta say, this video just got me full of enthusiasm.

[@lovelyangel2366]

I have nothing deep or insightful to say, I just feel the need to mention I could not stop myself from watching shadow monty dance as credits rolled, I don’t care about any reveal, just watching the dance made me happy

[@ghostlord656]

I've just started working on a script for my first video, so this couldn't have come at a better time. Not exactly planning on making video essays, but any video making advice has been a decent motivation boost to actually go through with it when I have zero idea what I'm doing.

[@SpoilerJunkie]

Thanks for this video At home, most of my relatives laugh at my mother for using the letter "L" for "R." I always get annoyed when they do that. I know my mother had to sacrifice her school to take care of the rest of the family. After all these years, they tease her for not getting it right. I'm very proud to be her son. I'm not ashamed of her. I'm glad she is my mom.

[@hollipoison13]

When I started diving into video essays, I found your BioShock videos and was instantaneously a fan. Your video scripts are so well crafted, and I love the way you put them together. I actually listen to video essays at work like a podcast, so I can't speak to your visuals unfortunately. But I do very much love your content!! Thank you for everything you do to make it!

[@xlnyc77]

Good Stuff, Its nice to get a peek behind the curtain

[@creecher1118]

You and White Light are my fav video game essayists on KZbin. Cool to see you love his content, too.

[@kevlingcustomtitantrons9375]

I really came here to learn note-taking as I suck at it. You gave me some good tips. Thanks man! Great video

[@mahic98]

Step 1: Have Monty's voice .... Step 11: Profit In all seriousness, glad I subbed. One of the best essayers I've listened to, opened my mind to a lot of concepts that I would have never thought about before. Congrats to 100,000 Monty, let's make it to 1 Million!

[@McLitty]

that split second of prey in this video makes me want to see a prey monty zander video or a prey lore dump

[@ProjektBurn]

Hey Monty. Just wanted to say you're awesome and thank you for your video essays. They're a pretty neat perspective on games I love that bring more to the game, making me love em even more. That's pretty kick ass. Hope you're day is good. Take care mate

[@itsjieyang]

Hey man. Just wanna say I've been on a Lore Dump binge and you and the gang are freaking entertaining. I absolutely loved your Bioshock retrospectives, but the Lore Dumps are also super underrated.

[@itsjieyang]

OH hell yeah Arkham City Lore Dump out now too

[@NotPhat69]

Came for video, stayed for the disco

[@josephlemons]

Thanks for all you do Monty ❤❤

[@Roboblt]

Seeing Monty gush about his wife just warms my heart :]

[@hungryLIKEALI0N]

Wooooo! Congratulations Monty! I love your channel and Lore Dump. I hope you keep at it because I will keep watching :)

[@Archyus1]

as someone who is constantly thinking about learning editing & making videos, this is quite literally the opposite of a dry video! thank you for sharing your insight, this video will be a valuable stepping stone at the very least for me :)

[@gearreaper7981]

Man I been loving your videos since I met you a few weeks ago, the way you mix videogame analysis with politics or philosophical discussions is just fantastic. I would love to hear your take on any of the Persona games, since they tend to mix philosophy with story and gameplay in very interesting ways

[@lenaburch6566]

I love seeing behind the scenes stuff and learning about the creative process behind some of my favorite things, thanks for sharing this! Congrats on winning KZbin dad!

[@VR-iL4ro]

Finding research has to be the most difficult part and I'm proud of you and your ability to find and create interesting perspectives

[@KapitanStolik]

I love you Monty, you are one of my favourite KZbinrs ever at the moment, can't wait for your AW2 critique!

[@jerrodshack7610]

I don't really have that much interest in making these kinds of videos, but the main thing I've always wondered was how people manage and organize potentially dozens of hours of footage. Now i know!

[@rogue1o3]

Monty this video has been very helpful for me. I've been watching you for sometime, you're one of my inspirations infact. I'm a VERY small video essay creator (essayist?). I've struggled with my workflow and balance with my actual job. Learning how you structure your production from writting to editing was very helpful. EDIT: I also fuss over my voice over mastering way too much. I feel its not good enough or could be tweaked despite everyone telling me it sounds great. I built a recording booth out of packing blankets and PVC pipes and I think it improves the sound quality, while my mate hears absolutely no difference. My doubts are likely because I have no formal audio engineering training. Hearing someone as successful as you express similar experiences is very reassuring. In general I spend way too long worrying about too many small inconsequential things in the editing phase. Keep up the excellent work and congrats on 100k!!! 👏

[@nikkideedles]

Cant wait for the next Noobus Humanus video! I always look forward to your uploads. I usually watch them when they are uploaded to Patreon...then I rewatch it over on youtube a couple of days later while i'll be getting ready for work in the morning, lol. You're videos are such a comfort and when watching/listening to them its almost like I am sitting down with a friend. Stay golden Monty! You will always have my support

[@hansolochewbacca4260]

This was a really interesting video, thanks Monty! I don't usually comment as I'm often late to watching a video (or have to watch it in two/three parts) & everyone else has already made thoughtful or funny comments by the time I finish. But you do a lot of great work & I appreciated seeing this behind-the-scenes sneak-peek :)

[@tdbla98]

My best friend from childhood always told me bioshock was a great game, that both 1 & 2 are. You're the one who got me to play BioShock before i finished your video. Such a great video man. I love your voice and tone when you approach these games and how you cover them. You deserve your success and cant wait to see you get more viewers. Great stuff dude. Keep up the hard work and make sure to do it for you. I want to watch the videos you want to make, not videos you feel like others want you to make, and i feel i speak for all of us when i say that. If you're not enjoying the process, i dont think you'd make such a great piece. Dont burn yourself out man, im willing to wait a while to see your next videos with how amazingly well put together they are :)

[@sabisgambi3818]

I really appreciate your recommendations for editing software, and I appreciate your encouragement even more. I’ve had video essays written for myself about things that I don’t think anyone else will care for, but it’s nice to be reminded that I can make videos for my own enjoyment. I also love the variety of video styles you have, from the long form stuff to your shorter ones. The longer videos fill up my work day and have encouraged me to try games before watching your breakdowns of them (hello The Forgotten City!) so that I can fully enjoy and understand your analysis. The shorter ones are also great bc it reminds me I don’t have to make a video super long to get a point across. And Noobus Humanus makes me feel better about not being a great gamer because I still do my best to hit all the information I can find in a game, even when I mess up. Anyway, I guess what I mean to say is that I’m so happy I found your channel (thanks to my friends who wouldn’t shut up about Soma, and they were right). You 100% deserve the following you’ve earned just by writing about the stuff you love.

[@kredonystus7768]

While I can't help with soundproofing, 4 tips that help with your voice before speaking, coming from a singer. The best warmup is to fill a cup with water, put it in the sink and put a straw in it. Sing a song through the straw. You don't want to start with alot of water, you have to work the muscles up to it. It's a slight backpressure on the throat that you want, not alot. You also have the straw at the lips not inside your mouth. Run the alphabet, especially consonants, through the straw a couple of times. Say the letters as they are pronounced in words, not like A as ay. Drink a few whiskys the night before. It'll do a bit of damage to the vocal chords but that is normally a good thing for richness. When you say mmhmm the pitch you naturally say that at is the one that puts the least strain on your vocal chords. Speaking around that pitch while not recording (which will likely be a little deeper than your normal voice) will let you record for longer with as few issues.

[@evar.7093]

Thanks for a look into your process! I always like seeing how my favorite things get made and your video essays are something I fully enjoy. Especially like having them on when I'm doing the laundry or dishes. I've been tempted to start making my own video essays but I've always stopped myself. Or at least, start writing essays on my favorite media. And I think this may have encouraged me to start! Especially since I plan on updating my computer this year! Looking forward to another year of content, no matter what it is or when it comes out!

[@DinoMedicDM]

Love all your videos Monty! I have been waiting to watch all the system shock stuff until I finished it today, I'm very excited to watch all the livestreams in full instead of popping in and leaving when I thought a spoiler was about to pop up. Thanks for all your hard work, this and lore dump help me chill out a lot after work

[@lgd6619]

I like the honesty of your content, I see more than a few vids in this format that seem to be less about the game and more about feeding the creators own ego

[@daychasermedia]

This is great advice! My channel is launching it's first video at the end of this week so I will keep these tips in mind on my next video essay.

[@WhyDoWeLike]

When your cold email serendipitously becomes a whole ass video. Super stoked to watch this and learn how to make my shit even better. Thanks for the insight into the process Monty, super damn helpful.

[@RichyDaReapaRedux]

Thanks for showing how the sausage is made. This is some good edu-tainment

[@CasualLog]

Ur vids have been some of my favorites for a year now, i love the way you talk about games and its inspired me to make a vid about something ive been thinking about for a while:)

[@MoonSpiritChannel]

Saving this for a playlist so I can take notes for my content creation process. I always love to know what goes into the minds of a creator. And I also love editing b/c it's like building a Lego set: when all the pieces come together, you feel a sheer sense of pride of making something. And the video capturing process, I might just do what you did and start renaming the files, except for my console b/c thank god the Elgato allows me to give me a rough idea on what I'm recording. And I must be mad b/c I capture them in 38-45 minute intervals, and thank god for Handbrake for video compression!

[@jackm201]

Quickly became one of my favourite KZbinrs. Really enjoy your content, especially on re-watch. I do find sometimes the philosophy segments can go on a bit. Specifically in your bioshock 1 & 2 vids. But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t learn something new. So it’s something I’m beginning to accept as your style. Keep up the good work!

[@glynowen6764]

I love you're videos, they always give me a new way of looking at them and lore dump I think that the master of master is Chase

[@Zweidie]

Great rendition of the chicken dance, 100 points. Oh yeah, also solid video

[@Siferiax]

Been really enjoying your content. Though must admit I do pick and choose which of the longer videos I actually watch 😅

[@spacey1398]

100k well deserved!! So glad I found your channel! I've watched the SOMA vid multiple times.

[@antifyme3511]

thank you monty for hitting right in the middle of "i should start a youtube channel with video essays" phase.

[@DthBakesh]

You spoiling us, Monty

[@chaos4harmony]

I was there for the Spyro comment 🤣🥳

[@depouille]

lol, interesting, this month I finally bit the bullet and got the software and hardware to do video essays with the goal of doing one rough draft of one by the end of the month and one of my favorite essayists makes a how to video. great timing, looking forward to watching this after work

[@Masterhitman935]

This is a very informative video and I appreciate the insight in content creation.

[@RudolfInderst]

Thank you very much!

[@merchantarthurn]

[Question about Ad break] [Ad break] oh, ciné. I hope that one was placed manually by you.

[@notsocasualYT]

Thanks for this video, it is nice to have other content creators passing their knowledge to the ones who are just starting!

[@gamingwithjovy6087]

Really cool video! You've given me some ideas on how to make my videos better for my channel! Thanks a lot and keep making awesome content!! :)

[@kaninum5131]

Commenting for engagement to spite the guy who complained that Monty invites his audience to participate in the discussions he starts by commenting. He also deserves the engagement but mostly spite

[@KellanKakakaway]

31:27 I got an ad no way you said that and it popped up like that's crazy

[@beezuslabs3332]

Reuploaded? Bet, bout to rewatch again❤🙌🏻

[@alexblackmore7744]

So glad to see you get to the 100k mark, here's to 100k more!

[@spacejasontodd]

Oh fuck YEAH, perfect background for cleaning, thank you Best Boy Monty

[@pseudopod]

Super interesting look behind the scenes

[@TheOnlyTaps]

This was a very good watch. Thank you for this ❤

[@Luke-Nightingale]

Thank you very much for making this ! I'm in the process of Starting up my own channel. I am from Wales Originally, Lived in Aus for 16 years and now Live in Japan. I tried a crack at a Japanese style channel (think abroad in japan) but it's been a bit of a steep hill to traverse. I would love to talk "Shop" With you at some point if you have time. Cheers, Luke Edit: I have seen other videos like this from other people, but not as indepth as this !

[@wagenbach]

Thanks for this 🎉

[@Jopeth23]

As someone whose day job is ghostwriting for clients and has been meaning to start writing and recording video essays, this is the prompt that I needed. Thanks Monty! I have been watching your content for a while, and what hooked me is your Watchdogs and Bioshock video. With that said, I have a question. Do you always have to wear your politics on your sleeve in your videos, or does it depend if the theme or the angle you want to explore in a video game? I'm a very political person, but I'm kinda hesitant to include my politcal leanings in the future essays that I will be writing as I think that would attract all kinds of weirdoes in the comment section. Thanks a lot, and more power to your channel! Congrats to your 100l! :D

[@janeric8721]

37:29 love it😂😂😂👍

[@thebombdiggity3941]

Keep up the gold my bro

[@donovian2538]

Monty is Harry Styles confirmed

[@sniperbunny8597]

Wow! It's really cool to know your process for your videos. Your content has been so formative for me, and every time I play a new game, I always think 'hmm, I wonder what Monty would think of this?'. Not only are your analyses interesting, they always seem to pinpoint any problems I have with a game, allowing me to properly put into words what makes me bounce off certain titles! For instance, I couldn't figure out why CONTROL wasn't sticking with me when I loved the combat and worldbuilding so much, and then I watched your critique and realised it was because Jesse felt too unresponsive to all of the larger-than-life and character affecting events occurring. BTW, if you're looking for another game to do a philosophical analysis of, may I suggest Citizen Sleeper? It's affected my psyche in a big way, forcing me to understand what separates just surviving and truly living. If you sprint through it, it might take you about 6 hours to complete, but I managed to stretch it out to 30 because I found the world so enthralling. Give it a go next time you're bored! (P.S. you and your wife are really cool)

[@Kris-wo4pj]

I thought it was obvious ya read the comments. I commented on a video a few months after it came out and ya replied and hearted it. I was extremely surprised. I only get hearts when i comment a few mins after a video drop on the rest of yt. Hell ive um actually ya a few times and got a heart for it.

[@wolfpack9552]

Did I see Blasphemous in there? SO GOOD.

[@jeffreyrussell4874]

this was great loved it😄

[@NoSleepDaChimney]

Could’ve sworn you had a ton more subs wtf 😂😂😂 congrats homie

[@jonahkey9313]

I fall asleep to your videos often and I never realized that you’d considered that, I always finish them after though of course.

[@SuperPegase]

Second time i'm watching the video to study it before actually trying to talk about how awesome Silent Hill is, but damn.. i'm just too overwhelmed and i already feel i won't make it LMAO

[@emeranaa]

i would actually DEVOUR a danganronpa video by you

[@TerryGXD]

monty please can we get video essays on the war for cybertron and fall of cybertron games please their 10/10 and defenitly deserver your stamp of review

[@Sh4ndes]

Respect for dancing for almost two and a half minutes

[@RAMdomgamer]

Great video, brother. Im starting my channel about videogame reviews and You video showed me that i'm doing the right things Even if not doing it completely right. Liked and suscribed to your channel. Have a good one.

[@rocketmancmbn]

Interesting watch. Can’t wait for your AW2 stuff. I have a feeling it will be epic. Oh, and end every video with a funky dance.

[@AdamVanHouten]

Heya! Just a thought that, if I scrolled far enough, I might find others who wrote this, but; If you were to feel motivated to do a video-essay on a game that other video-essayists have already covered but, you're feeling unsure you have something new to contribute, just remember, if you're passionate about it, your subscribers will watch and enjoy it, probably, I mean, yeah... That is to say, I don't watch those other youtubers, but I watch you, and I would happily enjoy your take on a game someone else has covered. ^_^ Either way, thank you for this video, it gave me a lot of ideas to think about, and I look forward to your next essay and, I know I'm late to THIS video, but I already watched the bg3 video, enjoyed it, and I look forward to the next noobus video as well!

[@XProoMS]

great video. I just want to point out something that i noticed which is sometimes you set a point, and try to prove it for the rest of the video. for example your first jedi video and the point being "lepstick on a pig" and while the point might be correct, trying to revolve the whole video around it might miss a lot of the good and the bad since we are only and specifically trying to prove the "lipstick on a pig" point, and anything that doesn't or disproves it will go under the radar. I hope I'm not overstepping here