David Gelb: How to Write Cinematically | How I Write

David Gelb: How to Write Cinematically | How I Write

From How I Write by David Perell

April 15, 2026 · 1h 9m

About this episode

David Gelb discusses the art of writing cinematically and the lessons learned from top chefs.

This episode is presented by Mercury, the banking platform that makes this show possible. I can’t imagine trying to run my business without them. Learn more at https://mercury.com David Gelb directed 'Jiro Dreams of Sushi' and 'Chef's Table', which is what this conversation is all about: the art of making documentaries, telling stories, and bringing people to life. He says that whenever you're writing a scene, a character should come into it wanting one thing and leave with something else. David spent a lot of time with the world's top chefs, so I had to ask what lessons he learned from them and how those lessons seeped into his work. About the host Hey! I’m David Perell and I’m a writer, teacher, and podcaster. I believe writing online is one of the biggest opportunities in the world today. For the first time in human history, everybody can freely share their ideas with a global audience. I seek to help as many people publish their writing online as possible. Follow me Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-i-write/id1700171470 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DavidPerellChannel Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2DjMSboniFAeGA8v9NpoPv X…

People in this episode

Host: David Perell

Guest: David Gelb

Topics covered

  • writing
  • documentaries
  • storytelling
  • cooking
  • creativity

Keywords

  • cinematic writing
  • documentary
  • storytelling
  • David Gelb
  • Jiro Dreams of Sushi
  • Chef's Table
  • writing lessons

Sponsors

Mercury

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Jiro Dreams of Sushi, Chef's Table

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