Best MasterClass Review

by Liz Hurley

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Here at Learnopoly we’ve fully completed and provided in depth reviews of 90+ of the best MasterClasses across every category. 

So if you're wondering what the top classes on the platform are, this article is here to help.

And as MasterClass brings new instructors to the platform, I update this article regularly to make sure it has the latest classes included.

So, let’s get to it.

First, if you're short on time, here's a quick round up:

Quick summary

Best MasterClass by category:

Top 10 overall best MasterClasses

This is our top ten countdown of the best MasterClasses out of the 90+ classes that we have completed and reviewed in full.

Of course, what's best for you depends on what you're interested in. So check out our reviews in the best in category section below if you have a particular interest.

10. Jocko Willink

Jocko Willink MasterClass Review

Course: Jocko Willink – Critical Leadership Training Length: 1 hour and 11 minutes divided into 10 video lessons Category: Business

Jocko Willink’s depth of knowledge when it comes to leadership is hard to beat, and with his MasterClass you can learn the leadership techniques that took him decades of experience and training to refine and perfect. Although he covers similar ground in his book, Extreme Ownership, here we get to see the same techniques neatly summarized in a video course, and being applied in real-world situations. It's well worth the investment.

9. Chris Voss

Chris Voss MasterClass

Course: Chris Voss teaches the Art of Negotiation  Length: 3 hours and 4 minutes divided into 18 video lessons Category: Business

The techniques taught in this course are easy to use, memorable and effective. The theory behind them is thoroughly explained and you can see them backed up in action – sometimes with real life footage from hostage negotiations. Take this course and you’ll learn how to let the other person have your way.

8. Yotam Ottolenghi

Yotam Ottolenghi MasterClass

Course: Yotam Ottolenghi teaches Modern Middle Eastern Cooking  Length: 5 hours and 40 minutes divided into 26 video lessons Category: Food

An amazing MasterClass that builds skills from simple to complex in logical steps that take your cooking from good to great. Also has lots of tips for hosting guests and staying calm in the kitchen. Helps you impress your friends and make Middle Eastern dishes that look as good as they taste.

7. James Cameron

James Cameron MasterClass

Course: James Cameron teaches Filmmaking  Length: 3 hours and 20 minutes divided into 15 video lessons Category: Entertainment

A well planned and carefully structured MasterClass that provides a wealth of practical tips and techniques supported by clear working examples. This class provides you with a new lens for understanding film. A unique opportunity to learn from an academy award winning director with over four decades of experience and an infectious passion for his art.

6. Stephen Curry

Steph Curry MasterClass

Course: Stephen Curry teaches Shooting, Ball-Handling and Scoring  Length: 3 hours and 41 minutes divided into 17 video lessons Category: Sport and Gaming

An extremely well crafted and taught MasterClass with a superb balance of theory and practice. The attention to detail is great and there are detailed explanations of the techniques and how to apply them. The routines have a sound learning curve and can slot into your practice straight away. 

5. Thomas Keller

Thomas Keller MasterClass

Course: Thomas Keller teaches Cooking Techniques Length: 17 hours and 33 minutes divided into 3 separate MasterClasses (totaling 75 video lessons) Category: Food

Keller’s classes provide a strong focus on technique, not recipes. Every food group is covered by America’s most decorated chef in a modest, down to earth style. Building from simple to complex, this MasterClass will provide you with transferable skills and the confidence to apply them and become a more adventurous cook. 

4. Salman Rushdie

Salman Rashdie MasterClass

Course: Salman Rushdie teaches Storytelling and Writing Length: 4 hours and 17 minutes divided into 19 video lessons Category: Writing

Rushdie’s MasterClass contains an abundance of practical guidance and tips that you can use straight away to improve your writing. It’s carefully curated and structured and accompanied by exercises and resources that continue to support learning long after the MasterClass is over. An eye opening course that will equip you to tell your story in the best way.

3. Chris Hadfield

Chris Hadfield MasterClass

Course: Chris Hadfield teaches Space Exploration Length: 7 hours and 47 minutes divided into 29 video lessons Category: Science and Technology

A truly great MasterClass that is transformative, accessible and fun. There is a lot of theory but it's clearly explained with strong examples, props and resources. Hadfield is a gifted, passionate teacher and his class will change not just how you think about space, but about yourself and the future.

2. Tom Morello

Tom Morello MasterClass

Course: Tom Morello teaches Electric Guitar Length: 5 hours and 34 minutes divided into 26 video video lessons Category: Music

Morello is both an incredible musician and phenomenal teacher. There’s tons of practical takeaways and tips, together with carefully crafted assignments that tangibly improve playing and confidence – especially with improvisation. The accompanying workbook is a fantastic post course resource and lots of bonus advice for sustaining a career in the music industry. Tom's class features in our top guitar lessons online review.

1. Gordon Ramsay

Gordon Ramsay MasterClass

Course: Gordon Ramsay teaches Cooking Length: 8 hours and  34 minutes divided into two separate MasterClasses (in total 35 video lessons) Category: Food

Ramsay’s uncompromisingly high standards and competitiveness have resulted in a determination to produce the best MasterClass on the platform. And it delivers. Ramsay provides accessible explanations into the theory and science behind great cooking that will equip you to improve your culinary skills on a continuous basis. An incredible opportunity to learn from a 16 Michelin starred chef who’s also a gifted and entertaining teacher.

Best MasterClass reviews by category

The best MasterClass for you obviously depends on what you are interested in. So we've reviewed up to five MasterClasses in each category below so that you can truly get a flavor of what's on offer on the platform across every topic.

-Cooking

5. Aaron Franklin teaches Texas style BBQ

Aaron Franklin MasterClass

Course length: 16 lessons totaling 5 hours

Aaron Franklin is a barbecuing legend and virtuoso pitmaster. His no-reserve Franklin Barbecue in Austin has been awarded Best BBQ in the US (Bon Appetit) and counts among its many celebrity patrons Barack Obama and Gordon Ramsay (who waited in line for four hours to get in!)

Seriously, if you want to hone your pit skills, you should consider this MasterClass. It’s an incredibly thorough and engaging course on all aspects of Texan BBQ.

Learn how to:

  • Build and maintain a great fire and understand the smoke
  • Game plan your way to perfection
  • Cook simpler cuts of meat low and slow and grill more complex cuts with parts that cook at different speeds – preparing you nicely to tackle ‘the mother of all Texan barbecue cuts’, the brisket
  • The art and science of preparing, smoking and slicing brisket
  • The story of Aaron’s success from brisket botcher to brisket master

Pros

  • Learning from a world-renowned smoker and skilled trainer
  • Engaging, warm self-deprecating approach and great teaching style
  • Full technical (but accessible) explanations of how and why things work
  • Good balance of theory and practical elements

Cons

  • Biased towards Central Texas BBQ

Best for: Barbecue enthusiasts who want to establish a new level of confidence or entertain on a bigger scale as well as seasoned smokers who want to try out a different style of cook, alter their philosophy or are considering opening their own BBQ joint and want to benefit from Aaron’s success.

Read our full Aaron Franklin MasterClass Review.

4. Niki Nakayama teaches Modern Japanese Cooking

Niki Nakayama MasterClass review

Length of course: 18 videos totaling 4 hours and 7 minutes of video content

Niki Nakayama is a Japanese culinary icon and a champion of female chefs in an incredible male-dominated field. She’s won 2 Michelin stars at n/naka and is respected across the globe. 

This MasterClass is instructional, beautiful and inspiring. Niki and her wife, Carole, are great teachers and share amazing nuggets of wisdom that only Michelin star chefs would know. Its position as number four is due to it not being for everyone (eg: vegans, fish haters and coeliacs) but if you love fish and want to master Japanese Kaiseki cuisine, this unique MasterClass is money well spent.

You will learn: 

  • The centuries old tradition of kaiseki, with a personal, modern twist
  • All about traditional Japanese cooking and how you can adapt it to your own kitchen
  • How to work within a mottainai zero-waste approach
  • Niki Nakayama’s Michelin star tips for creating amazingly beautiful food

Pros

  • Unique opportunity to learn from an incredible 2 Michelin star chef
  • Really great teaching style from Niki and her wife and sous chef, Carole
  • Great instructions for making kaiseki in your kitchen at home
  • Impressive, but manageable recipes
  • On screen glossary for unfamiliar words

Cons

  • Not for everyone
  • Some hard to source ingredients

Best for: fans of Japanese cuisine, seafood enthusiasts, anyone looking to broaden their cooking repertoire, anyone who wishes they could eat at n/naka, and Niki Nakayama fans! Not for vegetarians, vegans or fish haters!

Read our full Niki Nakayama MasterClass Review.

3. Yotam Ottolenghi teaches Middle Eastern Cooking

Length of course: 26 videos totaling 5 hours and 40 minutes

Yotam Ottolenghi is an amazing chef and an incredible, fascinating person. He’s won multiple James Beard Awards and has 7 restaurants in London. He knows how food can bring people together and that’s what he seeks to do in this MasterClass.

For me, this is one of the best online courses I’ve taken, so why is it third on the list? It won’t hit the spot for those who prefer meat-led recipes or don’t like Middle Eastern flavors. That said, if you’re looking to mix things up in the kitchen and wow your friends, it’s an amazing course which progresses from simple to complex mains in a way that builds up skills gradually.

You will learn: 

  • 13 incredible Middle Eastern recipes that are packed full of flavor
  • How to make and use Ottolenghi’s ‘flavor bombs’ that add a punch to any dish
  • Practical tips for hosting lots of guests and staying relaxed and calm in the kitchen
  • The non-negotiable steps that take your cooking from good to great
  • How to make food a dramatic visual experience 
  • Ancient Middle Eastern cooking techniques that have been enjoyed for millenia
  • Yotam Ottolenghi’s core philosophy on food

Pros

  • Amazing recipes including some signature dishes from his deli, Ottolenghi, in London
  • Incredibly clear and reassuring teacher 
  • Really versatile recipes that give you so much scope far beyond the end of the MasterClass

Cons

  • Not for everyone (bold flavors and veg-forward recipes)

Best for: anyone wanting to experiment with rich and vibrant Middle Eastern cuisine that is packed full of flavor. And of course… Yotam Ottolenghi fans!

Read our full Yotam Ottolenghi MasterClass Review.

2. Thomas Keller teaches Cooking (I – III)

Course length: Part 1 36 videos totaling 6 hours and 36 minutes/Part II 22 videos with a run time of 6 hours and 6 minutes/Part III 17 videos totaling 4 hours and 51 minutes.

Thomas Keller is quite simply America’s most decorated chef. He holds three Michelin stars, has won countless prestigious honors from the James Beard Foundation and the Culinary Institute of America, and was the inspiration behind the character of Chef Remy in Ratatouille.

Keller’s MasterClasses represents an amazing opportunity to learn from one of the world’s most accomplished chefs. His three courses represent the most comprehensive guide to cooking techniques out there, building from simple to complex. Keller is an endearing chef who wants you to believe in yourself and I am undoubtedly a more confident cook as a result of engaging with these classes. 

You’ll learn to:

  • Shift your focus away from recipes to transferable skills.
  • Get to grips with all the essential principles behind the science of cooking
  • Class I: Use a variety of techniques for working with Vegetables, Eggs and Pasta
  • Class II:Master more complex skills with Meats, Stocks and Sauces
  • Class III: Work with more demanding ingredients and techniques with a focus on Fish, Sous Vide and Desserts: 

Pros

  • A super exciting opportunity to learn from one of the very best chefs in the world
  • Modest, down to earth teaching style
  • Focus on transferable techniques that will elevate all your cooking
  • Wide variety of food types covered, simple to challenging
  • Super helpful workbooks 

Cons

  • Some of the ingredients are expensive

Best for: Someone beginning their cooking journey who wants to focus on techniques from the outset, through to more experienced cooks who want to deepen their understanding of the science behind good cooking, entertain on a bigger scale or just become more adventurous. And of course Keller fans who want to benefit from his experience.

Read our full Thomas Keller MasterClass Review.

1. Gordon Ramsay teaches Cooking (I & II)

Course Length: Part I 20 video lessons totaling 3 hours and 54 minutes/Part II 15 video lessons totaling 4 hours and 40 minutes

Gordon Ramsay is probably the best known chef and restaurateur in the world. He runs 32+ establishments across 3 continents, holds 16 Michelin stars and a Most Excellent Order of the British Empire from the Queen of England for his contribution to the world of food!

Ramsay is famed for his incredibly high standards and extreme competitiveness. I’m convinced this made him determined to deliver the best MasterClass on the platform. And he has. Hence, his courses are ranked first. He’s not just a sublime chef but an entertaining and gifted teacher who equipped me with a deep understanding I’ve used to improve my cooking on an ongoing and continuous basis. 

You’ll learn to:

  • Master world class tips and techniques to elevate your cooking far beyond the end of the class
  • Get incredible flavor from modest ingredients
  • Train your palate and understand the flavor profiles of herbs and seasonings
  • Develop restaurant-worthy knife skills
  • Create phenomenal dishes including some iconic Gordon Ramsay recipes such as Beef Wellington and Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb

Pros

  • Learn from the world’s most accomplished and iconic chef
  • Incredible insight and explanation into the theory behind great cooking which equips you to improve far beyond the end of the course
  • Recipes that use unexpected ingredients and encourage you to think outside the box
  • Amazing video production that’s beautiful and informative
  • Alternative ingredients sections in the workbook that allow you to tailor the recipes according to specific dietary requirements

Cons

  • More complex recipes are demonstrated with some components already made
  • Sometimes uses hard to find or expensive ingredients

Best for: Anyone wanting to truly understand the principles behind good cooking to gain more confidence and elevate their current cooking (course 1). Those wanting to wow friends and family and pull off spectacular culinary delights (course 2). And of course Gordon Ramsay fans! 

Read our full Gordon Ramsay MasterClass Review.

Other food related MasterClasses include: Apollonia Poilane (bread baking), Lynette Marrero and Ryan Chetiyawardna (Mixology), Gabriela Camara (Mexican cooking), Massimo Bottara (Modern Italian Cooking), James Suckling (Wine Appreciation), Dominique Ansel (French Pastry Fundamentals), Alice Waters (Home Cooking), Wolfgang Puck (Cooking)

-Arts and Entertainment

This is a big category covering lots of different areas. So, to do it justice we’re subdividing it into:

  • Filmmaking
  • Photography
  • Acting
  • Screenwriting
  • General Entertainment

Best Filmmaking MasterClass

3. Werner Herzog teaches Filmmaking

Course length: 26 lessons totaling 5 hours and 57 minutes

Werner Herzog is a self-taught filmmaker with over 70 films to date. As a multi-award winner, he’s best known for Grizzly Man, Fitzcarraldo, and Nosferatu the Vampyre. François Trufault described him as “the most important film director alive.”

In this MasterClass, you learn from Werner’s unique perspective and gain valuable insight into a documentary style of filmmaking. There’s lots of useful theory which is always cemented with clear examples and case studies. And the workbook provides a range of resources that will keep you learning way beyond the end of the class. 

You will learn to:

  • Develop your skills in storytelling
  • Create suspense and flow
  • Understand your audience’s relation to film
  • Introduce compelling characters and narratives

Pros

  • Learn from a respected filmmaker
  • Good insight into the creative process
  • Great balance of theory and practical
  • Plenty of examples and suggested viewing

Cons

  • Covers a niche style of filmmaking
  • Less coverage of technicalities

Best for: Those interested in self-teaching rather than film school, and those who would welcome an understanding of a more documentary style of filmmaking. 

Read our full Werner Herzog MasterClass Review

2. Ron Howard teaches Directing

Course length: 32 videos totaling 7 hours and 48 minutes

Ron Howard is an Oscar-winning director, famous for some of Hollywood’s most well crafted and critically acclaimed films including, A Beautiful Mind, Apollo 13, and The Da Vinci Code

What’s impressive about this MasterClass is not only Ron’s reputation, but the sheer quantity of subjects he covers – from script-evaluation to editing and everything in between. It’s all well structured, carefully explained and supported by excellent practical examples – including an amazing restaging of Frost/Nixon

You will learn how to:

  • Find a story you love
  • Work with your team
  • Cast the right actors
  • Evaluate and refine a script
  • Understand different camera techniques
  • Collaborate with your editor
  • Use sound design and music to enhance themes

Pros

  • Learn from an acclaimed expert with great teaching skills
  • Gain insight into working relationships
  • Understand the importance of story
  • Great case studies

Cons

  • Occasional unexplained jargon
  • Some over long lecture style lessons

Best for: anyone interested in filmmaking or writing. It even gives some good insight into acting. Most of the lessons are easy to follow, but it’s worth noting that Ron does assume some basic knowledge of cameras, lens types, and film terms.

Read our full Ron Howard MasterClass Review

1. James Cameron teaches Filmmaking

Length of course: 15 video lessons totaling 3 hours and 20 minutes

Academy Award winner, James Cameron, has directed some of Hollywood’s most iconic movies – including the first two films (Titanic and Avatar) ever to gross over $2bn. During his four decade career, Cameron has pioneered innovations that have transformed the industry and garnered him a place among the movie greats.

But Cameron hasn’t forgotten the hard lessons learnt from experience and the debt he owes to those who came before him. So, he’s put a lot of thought into how to deploy his hard earned wisdom to provide signposts for the next generation. He shares a wide range of tips, processes and techniques supported by clear working examples. I left this class with a much stronger understanding of filmmaking and have viewed films more intelligently since.

You will learn: 

  • The hard-earned wisdom that Cameron’s accumulated over four decades
  • How to recognize ideas worth developing
  • To understand the writing process so your story is told your way
  • ‘The Rules’ of filmmaking – and how, when and why they should be broken
  • A wide range of techniques for building and maintaining tension
  • About the role of lighting, lens selection, the score and sound design
  • To be canny and creative within budget constraints
  • To craft and introduce compelling characters
  • About the groundbreaking technology used to create Avatar
  • The importance to directing of great leadership and collaboration
  • And how to master tricks of the trade that will make your path smoother

Pros

  • Learn from a globally acclaimed filmmaker with great teaching skills
  • Gain hard earned tricks of the trade the easy way
  • Provides a new lens for understanding film
  • Supported by brilliant examples and detailed scene analyses
  • Great workbook with that supports and extends the class

Cons

  • Strongly focused on Terminator and (to a lesser extent) Aliens
  • Would benefit from more “How To” advice

Best for: Anyone interested in gaining insights into just what goes into making a movie great. Cameron’s detailed scene analyses will give anyone even mildly interested in cinema a new lens through which to view film. Film students may already be familiar with some of the content, but will benefit from gaining insight into Cameron’s approach to the art.

Read our full James Cameron MasterClass Review

Other film related MasterClasses include: Jodie Foster (Filmmaking), Spike Lee (Independent Filmmaking), Martin Scorsese (Filmmaking), Mira Nair (Independent Filmmaking), Ken Burns (Documentary Filmmaking), David Lynch (Creativity and Film).

Best Photography MasterClass

2. Jimmy Chin teaches Adventure Photography

Length of course: 20 lessons totaling 4 hours and 10 minutes

Jimmy Chin is a professional climber and photographer for National Geographic. He’s famed for his daring expeditions and recognised as one of the greatest adventure photographers of our time. He also won an Academy Award and a BAFTA for his 2019 documentary, Free Solo. 

In this MasterClass, you get a unique chance to learn from Chin himself as he takes you through his shooting process. With the on-location and post-production segments, you get to follow Chin’s journey from pitch to final edit. There is a lot packed into the course including some amazing trade secrets. And while many of Chin’s projects involve mountaineering, this course does include excellent tips for all outdoor photographers. 

You will learn: 

  • Chin’s process for shooting on location
  • How to tell a story through photography
  • Advice for pitching to and working with clients
  • How to prepare for expeditions
  • Chin’s editing and post-processing tips
  • Insights into building a portfolio of work 

Pros

  • Learn from a world-renowned photographer
  • Strong visual examples and walk-throughs
  • Precise and easy to follow instructions
  • Surprising number of trade secrets shared

Cons

  • Assumes some prior camera knowledge (could be a pro for some as it means no time is lost on the basics)
  • Technical terms not always explained

Best for: those who are serious about improving their adventure photography and that want to learn from one of the best. Helpful if you already have some basic knowledge of photography and/or climbing.

Read our full Jimmy Chin MasterClass Review

1. Annie Leibovitz teaches Photography

Length of course: 15 lessons totalling 3 hours and 4 minutes 

Annie Leibovitz is one of the most recognized portrait photographers in the world. Her photography career spans 50 years and she has been declared a Living Legend by the US Library of Congress. 

The one thing everyone hopes for when they do an online course is that they’ll actually improve. And I really did improve as a result of this MasterClass which is why it’s rated #1. It’s accessible and practical with great assignments. If you want to learn from a world-renowned photographer, unlock your creativity and take interesting photographs, this is worth every cent.

You will learn to

  • “See” like a professional photographer
  • Come up with interesting photo concepts
  • Develop your creativity with practical exercises
  • Blend natural light with artificial to make your photos pop
  • Understand Leibovitz’s core philosophies and influences
  • Appreciate the work that goes into iconic images like the John Lennon and Arnold Schwarzenegger photographs

Pros

  • My photos actually improved throughout the duration of the course
  • Leibovitz gives very practical assignments to learn very abstract ideas
  • Go behind the scenes to watch Leibovitz at work on real photoshoots
  • Suitable for a range of levels, from novice to pro
  • Amazing unique opportunity to learn from an iconic photographer

Cons

  • Not a technical course on camera settings (could be considered a pro)
  • Contains some nudity and the warning is only explained in the last video

Best for: anyone who wants to open up their creative vision, take more interesting portrait photographs, and of course, Annie Leibovitz fans!

Read our best Online Photography Course review and our full Annie Leibovitz MasterClass review

Other photography related MasterClasses include: Tyler Mitchell (Storytelling through Portrait Photography).

Best Acting MasterClass

1. Helen Mirren

Course length: 28 lessons totaling 6 hours and 25 minutes

Helen Mirren is a Royal Shakespeare Company trained actress. Her role in UK police drama, Prime Suspect, took her from the stage to the small screen. She is now renowned for her cinematic roles including Elizabeth I and Elizabeth II, winning Golden Globes for each. These sit alongside one Oscar, four BAFTAs, four Primetime Emmys and a Tony.

Her class is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from Helen herself. She teaches you everything from breaking down a script to creating compelling characters on stage and screen. This is an in-depth, insightful MasterClass which gives plenty of practical advice on how to stand out as an actor. Because of this, I’d say few other classes can compete with Helen’s level of teaching. 

Learn how to:

  • Break down a script into manageable chunks
  • Find and research your characters for a film
  • Develop your film-acting techniques 
  • Understand and use “naturalism” in acting
  • Prepare and rehearse for a scene
  • Make the most of props and costume choices
  • Work effectively with writers and directors

Pros

  • Learn from a critically-acclaimed actress
  • Extensive and in-depth lesson content
  • Highly informative Workbook

Cons

  • Veers towards the abstract at times
  • No group acting workshops

Best for: Students who are new to acting and keen to learn the basics as well as fans of Helen Mirren

Read our best Online Acting Class review and our full Helen Mirren MasterClass Review

Other acting related MasterClasses include: Natalie Portman (Acting) and Nancy Cartwright (Voice Acting). 

Best Screenwriting MasterClass

2. Aaron Sorkin

Course Length: 35 videos totaling 7 hours and 58 minutes.

Aaron Sorkin is an American screenwriter and director, most widely recognized for his work on 5x Emmy award winning The West Wing. He also holds an Academy Award for his work on The Social Network, and his 2015 biopic, Steve Jobs, won him a Golden Globe Award for Best Screenplay.

A standout feature of this course is how practical Aaron’s advice is. He talks to us plainly and backs up any abstractions with concrete explanations and, more often than not, examples. His examples from The West Wing are where I think this course excels. I found him motivating throughout and liked that he included case studies and workshops.

Learn how to:

  • Recognize and work within the rules of drama
  • Develop interesting characters
  • Find and incorporate research
  • Understand your audience
  • Create compelling story arcs
  • Exercise strong writing habits
  • Write and link scenes
  • Craft captivating dialogue
  • Approach rewrites and edits

Pros

  • Learn from a proclaimed screenwriter
  • Understand the rules of drama
  • View strong case studies

Cons

  • Some overlong workshops

Best for: Aaron Sorkin devotees who want to develop a deeper understanding of his works and those who are just starting out in the world of screenwriting. 

1. Shonda Rhimes

Course length: 30 lessons totalling 6 hours 15 minutes.

Shonda Rhimes is an American TV and film writer, producer, and showrunner. She has an array of awards under her belt (including two Publicists Guild of America awards) and is known for creating long-running and critically-acclaimed series such as Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal.

Her class contains a great range of content to mix up the lessons and keep you engaged. This includes a writers’ room setup, pilot analysis, screenings, and various in-depth case studies. There’s also a wide range of exercises and printable resources to help you cement and develop your skills. Another standout is the detail Shonda gives to breaking into the TV industry.  If you’re a fan of Shonda Rhimes, or are serious about breaking into TV writing professionally, this course is a must-watch. 

Learn how to:

  • Analyze TV to become a better writer
  • Find and grow compelling ideas
  • Effectively research for your story
  • Create memorable characters
  • Successfully pitch your show
  • Write an enticing and marketable script
  • Craft naturalistic dialogue

Pros

  • Learn from a successful TV writer
  • Excellent resources for further study
  • Varied and interesting content

Cons

  • Writers’ room feels distant
  • Often case study-specific

Best for: Writers who are looking to pitch their scripts or progress in their TV writing.

Read our best Online Screenwriting Course review and full Shonda Rhimes MasterClass Review

Best General Entertainment MasterClass

1. Penn and Teller teach Magic

Course length: 17 videos totaling 2 hours and 52 minutes.

Penn and Teller have been dazzling stage and screen audiences with mind blowing tricks for nearly half a century. They've performed on stages from Broadway to Las Vegas, been frequent guests on multiple TV shows, and hosted their own TV specials – including Fool Us and Bullshit.

In this MasterClass, they pull back the curtain to share some of the secrets behind their magical performances. The course is carefully structured and very little is required in the way of specialist equipment. You can quickly gain enough skill to perform simple tricks with conviction. The class also provides tips and hints to help you adapt tricks to make them your own. A super fun class from the best in the business.

Learn how to:

  • Perform a series of impressive card, coin, and rope magic tricks
  • Master the art of sleight of hand and misdirection
  • Understand the fundamentals of each trick and how you can customise them to make them your own 
  • Appreciate how Penn & Teller think about magic

Pros

  • Learn tricks requiring no specialist equipment that can be performed anywhere
  • Well structured MasterClass, allowing rapid progress
  • Great balance of theory and practice
  • Excellent delivery and teaching style
  • Enormously fun and entertaining
  • Input from other magical greats

Cons

  • Rather short

Best for: Anyone interested in learning a series of quick and impressive tricks that can be performed anywhere using very little (or no) specialist equipment. Plus anyone looking for inspiration to sharpen up their act as well as fans of Penn and Teller (of course).

Read our best Online Magic Class review and our full Penn and Teller MasterClass Review

Other general entertainment MasterClasses include: Steve Martin (Comedy)

-Music

3. Danny Elfman teaches Music for Film

Length of course: 21 video lessons totaling 3 hours and 10 minutes

From Batman to Good Will Hunting and The Nightmare Before Christmas; Danny Elfman has scored some of the greatest films of all time.  And to prove it he’s bagged himself four Oscar nominations, two Emmy awards and a Grammy. But he’s not just a great composer, he’s a great teacher too. 

From beginning to end, he’s engaging, insightful and passionate. You won’t learn the technical nitty gritty in three hours, but you will learn about the methods and stories of one of Hollywood’s greatest maestros. I gained a much stronger understanding of how a composer like Elfman puts his scores together than I thought possible from this class.

You will learn: 

  • The technical side of setting a score to a film, such as creating a template and holding a spotting session
  • Danny’s method for combining inspiration with originality
  • Insights behind some of Danny Elfman’s most legendary scores
  • Tips for finding a tune or a melody
  • How to work with directors and studios on a tight schedule 
  • Danny’s journey to where he is today, and his advice for budding composers
  • Composing leitmotifs; pieces of music for specific settings or characters
  • How to choose the right instruments for your score

Pros

  • The opportunity to learn from a legend with a really warm and engaging style of teaching 
  • Anecdotes that enlighten rather than distract from the lessons
  • Technical terms and examples used in a manner that’s easy to understand 
  • Danny’s passion shines throughout; it’s almost impossible to take this class and not leave wanting to be a composer 

Cons

  • Sometimes the lessons are quite abstract
  • Limited on ‘how-to’ advice

Best for: people with some prior musical knowledge who are interested in gaining insights on how composing for cinema actually works. Danny’s stories and examples also mean anyone with an interest in movies and filmmaking, or is a fan of Danny Elfman, will get a lot out of this MasterClass. 

Read our full Danny Elfman MasterClass Review.

2. Armin van Buuren teaches Dance Music

Length of course: 33 video lessons totaling 6 hours and 50 minutes

This Dutch producer and DJ has been on top of the EDM scene for almost twenty years. He broadcasts to 40 million listeners, has performed at major festivals all across the globe and been ranked #1 DJ by DJMag a record-breaking 5 times. 

Armin does cover a LOT of ground in this class which might feel a little overwhelming at times. But there are a wealth of truly practical tips for improving your sound and if you’re an aspiring DJ, this is perfect. And it’s a real privilege to gain so much knowledge from a single course, especially when its teacher has had such a stunning career.

You will learn: 

  • Armin’s process for constructing a track; from chords to kick to mixing
  • How to create and build sounds with pads and leads
  • Technical tips on using Logic Pro
  • How to construct a groove and arrange a big drop
  • What to look out for when critiquing your track 
  • How to work with a vocalist
  • All about building a DJ setlist and mashups
  • Armin’s approach to the decks
  • Advice on how to start your career as a DJ

Pros

  • Very instructional with lots of direct and explicit tips 
  • Incredible insight about the dance music game from a leading music producer and his collaborators
  • Exclusive fly-on-the-wall content of how Armin creates a track
  • Engaging, passionate and clear teaching
  • Diverse Teaching methods make the classes dynamic 

Cons

  • Can be overwhelming in terms of the amount of content per lesson
  • Quite long (this might be a plus for you)

Best for: those with a little experience and a lot of love for dance music. Although total novices might struggle with some of the technical aspects, musicians of any background can take a lot away from Armin’s philosophy on why and how his tracks get us dancing. Ideal for aspiring music producers, club DJs and EDM fans. 

Read our full Armin van Buuren MasterClass Review.

1. Tom Morello teaches Electric Guitar

Length of course: 26 videos totaling 5 hours and 34 minutes 

Tom Morello is famed for his unique and unconventional playing style and use of guitar effects. He’s showcased these with many bands including Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave, Prophets of Rage and during his tours with Bruce Springsteen. He holds two Grammy Awards.

His class features at #1 not only because Morello is an incredible musician, he’s a phenomenal teacher. His many years experience teaching guitar really shows. There are literally tons of practical lessons and tips. I  completed all the assignments, tangibly improved my playing and gained huge confidence in improvisation. For me this MasterClass was worth every penny! 

You will learn: 

  • The secrets behind Morello’s signature sounds
  • How to develop your creativity
  • Practical tips for improving your guitar proficiency through practice, developing speed and unlocking the fretboard
  • Tips for becoming confident and free with improvisation
  • How to write a killer rock riff and build it into a rock song
  • Morello’s real-world advice for sustaining a career and being true to yourself

Pros

  • Actionable tips and assignments 
  • Tom Morello is both a guitar legend and an awesome teacher
  • Great balance of practical and theory
  • Really thorough workbook complete with tabs and traditional notation
  • I actually became a better player

Cons

  • Not for complete beginners
  • Some backing tracks missing

Best for: Tom Morello / RATM / Audioslave / Prophets of Rage fans, as well as electric guitarists and instrumentalists who want to create innovative riffs and sounds in their music.

Read our full Tom Morello MasterClass Review.

Ultimately music can be broken down into different areas. So for some quick-fire best specific music MasterClasses see below:

Other music related MasterClasses include: Questlove (Music Curation and Djjing), Alicia Keys (Songwriting and Producing), Jake Shimabukaro (‘Ukulele), Sheila E (Drumming and Percussion), Timbaland (Producing and Beatmaking), Carlos Santana (Art and Soul of Guitar), Hans Zimmer (Film scoring), deadmau5 (Electronic Music Production), Reba McEntire (Country Music), Christina Aguilera (Singing), Usher (Art of Performance)

-Writing

3. Dan Brown teaches writing Thrillers

Length of Course: 19 videos totaling 3 hours and 32 minutes.

Dan Brown is a world-renowned author, 3-time Pulitzer Prize winner and New York Times best seller. He’s known as the master of thriller-writing, with his Robert Langdon series being adapted into a critically-acclaimed film trilogy.

His MasterClass ranks third because it’s an opportunity to learn the art of suspense from one of the world’s best. And though its main focus is writing thrillers, Dan provides a wealth of actionable advice to make you aware of, and develop, your general writing style. I picked up some good tips on how to overcome self-doubt and get out of a rut. He also unlocks new techniques for me to try out!

You will learn to:

  • Find inspiration for your story 
  • Create suspense through location and character creation
  • Research for authenticity and cohesion in your story
  • Use a range of techniques to give your readers a white knuckle ride
  • Communicate with publishers and develop resilience

Pros

  • Learn from a world-renowned author
  • Develop awareness of your own writing style
  • Great assignments to help you actively improve
  • Very accessible and jargon free
  • Inspiring no nonsense explanation helps elevate your writing

Cons

  • Workbook can be hard to navigate
  • Contains spoilers if you haven’t read Dan’s books

Best for: Anyone interested in writing. Dan does a great job of introducing people to the thriller genre but also caters to those that are further along in the writing process.

Read our full Dan Brown MasterClass Review.

2. Margaret Atwood teaches Creative Writing

Length of Course: 23 videos totaling 3 hours and 4 minutes

Margaret Atwood, author of The Handmaid’s Tale, is an acknowledged doyenne of dystopian and speculative novels. She is a Booker Prize holder and has received both the Los Angeles Times Innovator’s Award and the Franz Kafka International Literary Prize.

Atwood’s course gives great insight into how to generate ideas, research and compile manuscripts and create compelling characters. Her course ranks #2 because her advice is encouraging and pragmatic in equal measure and she seems to have a solution to almost every stumbling block a writer might encounter. If novel-writing is your area of interest, I’d say this is definitely the course for you.

You will learn how to:

  • Research and write speculative fiction
  • Create a strong plot and structure
  • Bring characters to life and write compelling dialogue
  • Revise your work for publication
  • Take writing from a hobby to a vocation

Pros

  • Learn from a globally revered author
  • Detailed lessons to  help you craft narrative worlds
  • Breaks the writing process down and provides numerous working examples of how to plan, draft, and revise 
  • Encouraging and pragmatic advice that helps overcome fears around getting started and writers block
  • Refers to the work of other authors resulting in a well-rounded course that goes beyond one style of writing.
  • Explores useful literary terms and theories to help you improve your work, but always grounds these in concrete examples.

Cons

  • Specific to writing novels so not helpful for short story writing or poetry

Best for: Anyone interested in writing a novel who’s struggling to get started. Some advice is a little basic for seasoned writers. But this is more than made up for by the inspiration and wisdom gained from hearing about the influences and experiences that have made Atwood the writer she is.

Read our full Margaret Atwood MasterClass Review.

1. Salman Rushdie teaches Story Telling and Writing

Length of course: 19 video lessons totaling 4 hours and 17 minutes

Sir Salman Rushdie is a prolific British-Indian novelist, best known for his writings on migrations and post-colonialism. He received international acclaim with his second novel, Midnight’s Children, which won the Booker Prize, and is now a household name.

This is an eye-opening course into storytelling traditions and writing to engage audiences. It’s #1 on our list because of the abundance of practical guidance and tips that you can implement immediately to improve your writing. The working knowledge and skills I gained from this course make it easily the best writing course I’ve taken.  

You will learn how to: 

  • Tell your story in the best way
  • Create powerful story openings
  • Draw influences from storytelling traditions
  • Conceive and bring characters to life
  • Become a better observer and writer
  • Use surrealist and magic realist techniques
  • Develop and improve your relationship with writing
  • Form strong relationships with editors and agents

Pros

  • An unrivalled opportunity to learn from one of the most influential writers of this generation
  • Great examples and additional resources
  • Full of practical exercises you can use to support learning
  • Unique and international point of view

Cons

  • Fast-paced so you may need to watch parts more than once

Best for: Anyone serious about writing and willing to put in the time and effort to get their work finished. If you’re keen to share something important with your readers and are looking to develop writing skills in order to share a story that is both personal and culturally relevant this is absolutely the MasterClass for you.

Read our full Salman Rushdie MasterClass Review.

Other writing MasterClasses include: N K Jemsin (Fantasy and Science Fiction), Amy Tan (Fiction, Memory and Imagination), Roxanne Gay (Writing for Social Change), Issa Ray (Cretaing Outside the Lines), Walter Mosley (Fiction and Storytelling), David Sedaris (Storytelling and humor), Joyce Carol Oates (Short Stories), David Baldacci (Mystery and Thriller Writing), Billy Collins (Poetry), Neil Gaiman (Storytelling), Malcolm Gladwell (Writing), R L Stine (Writing for Young Audiences), Judy Blume (Writing), David Mamet (Writing)

-Business

4. Bob Iger teaches Business Strategy and Leadership

Course length: 13 video lessons totaling 2 hours and 11 minutes.

Bob Iger reinvented Disney and increased its capitalization four fold through a series of multi billion dollar acquisitions and the expansion of Disney’s global presence. He was named  Time’s Business Person of the Year in 2020 and is a NYT #1 bestselling author with his book The Ride of a Lifetime.

We ranked this class #3 because it's a unique opportunity to learn strategy and leadership from one of the world’s most successful CEOs. Iger distills the wisdom gained from nearly half a century in the entertainment business to give you the tools you need to think strategically. And though there’s a strong focus on the entertainment industry, there are lots of actionable tips for leadership that you can bring to bear on your own personal and professional life.

Learn how to:

  • Restructure your day for maximum focus and effectiveness
  • Develop core leadership attributes
  • Build strategy
  • Sell your vision and negotiate like a pro
  • Navigate complex deals
  • Embrace change 
  • And gain insights into the processes behind major acquisitions by the Walt Disney Company

Pros

  • Delivered by a titan of the entertainment industry
  • Practical takeaways throughout
  • Structured to promote understanding
  • Cinematic quality with footage that really supports learning

Cons

  • A little on the short side
  • Quite focused on the creative industries

Best for: anyone wanting an insight into effective leadership and strategy from one of the world’s most accomplished CEOs. Also, anyone who wants to develop their negotiation skills or has an upcoming interview or pay review. Less suitable for those already experienced in business leadership and strategy. That said, there is still much to be gained in terms of the case studies of mergers and acquisitions and Bob’s own perspective.

Read our full Bob Iger MasterClass Review.

3. Daniel Pink teaches Sales and Persuasion

Course Length: 16 videos totaling 2 hours and 57 minutes.

Daniel Pink has been studying the science of persuasion for over 20 years. He’s written several NYT bestselling books all about sales and persuasion, including “WHEN” and “DRIVE”.

Pink’s class provides a short cut to the latest and best science on persuasion and selling. And Pink has put together in a course that will transform your ability to influence others. If you are serious about learning these skills and are prepared to put what you’ve learnt into practice, I think you’ll find this is a great investment. 

You will learn:

  • The most effective way to persuade someone according to science
  • Questions you can ask to influence the other side’s thinking
  • What makes a pitch successful and 6 different pitch techniques
  • A toolbox of 9 frames you can use when selling
  • How to improve your commercial decision-making 
  • How to gain perspective and what you should do with it once you have it
  • To read a room and understand group dynamics
  • To create meaningful connections

Pros

  • Scientifically proven techniques that actually work
  • Great selection of strategies taught
  • Well structured, actionable lessons 

Cons

  • Could benefit from even more examples and role plays
  • Not all of the ideas are unique to this course

Best for: Anyone serious about improving their sales and persuasive skills and looking for a comprehensive, science based approach. Beginners will fast track their progress with this course. People who are familiar with the topics will further their knowledge. Less suited to those looking for a traditional sales course that has you selling ice to Eskimos!

Read our full Daniel Pink MasterClass Review.

2. Jocko Willink teaches Critical Leadership

Course length: 10 videos totaling 1 hour and 11 minutes

After 20 years of decorated service as a Navy SEAL, Jocko Willink retired and co-founded Echelon Front, a leadership development company whose goal is to provide tailored, high-quality leadership training that maximizes team performance.

With leadership credentials second to none, in his MasterClass you can learn the leadership techniques that took decades of experience and training to refine and perfect.

Pros

  • Confident, articulate presenter with a wealth of experience
  • Simple and concise structure
  • Good use of real-world examples and anecdotes
  • Takeaway techniques that can be utilized immediately
  • Universal relevance, everyone can learn something

Cons

  • Occasional lack of depth
  • Some of the same takeaway points are available in Jocko’s book (but seeing it in video is more impactful)

Best for: Anyone can benefit from this course as you can implement leadership throughout your daily life. However, those looking to get into leadership or improve will get the most from the class.

Read our full Jocko Willink MasterClass review.

1. Chris Voss teaches the Art of Negotiation

Course length: 18 videos totaling 3 hours and 4 minutes

Chris Voss is a former lead FBI hostage negotiator (for some 20 years), best selling author, business leader, and guest lecturer at Harvard Business School. He has years of experience of high-stakes, life and death negotiations including more than 150 international hostage cases.

The Chris Voss MasterClass is our #1 choice because Voss is not only an unrivalled negotiator, but an incredibly qualified and engaging teacher. The techniques taught are simple, easy to use, memorable and effective. And to see them backed up in action with real life footage from hostage negotiations is a rare and exciting opportunity.

You will learn how to:

  • Deploy the tactics Voss has used in over 150 life and death negotiations
  • Achieve your goals through collaboration, not opposition
  • Use a range of strategies that build rapport and create trust based influence
  • Read body language and speech patterns
  • Respond to different situations effectively
  • Frame questions that shape the other sides thinking
  • Be alert to crucial snippets of information that can be game changers

Pros

  • Learn from one of the world’s top hostage negotiators
  • Real life footage of actual FBI negotiations
  • Easy to implement techniques
  • Engaging teaching style
  • Well structured, professionally produced course
  • Active online community

Cons

  • Would benefit from even more real-life examples
  • Some overlap with Chris Voss’s book

Best for: This course requires nothing but a willingness to listen. No prior negotiating experience is necessary. The techniques you will learn will enable you to get more of what you want with the respect, rather than the enmity, of others. Anyone who wants that can benefit.

Read our full Chris Voss MasterClass Review.

Other Business related MasterClasses include: Sir Richard Branson (Disruptive Entrepreneurship), Bill Clinton (Inclusive Leadership), Hillary Clinton (Resilience), Kris Jenner (Personal Branding), Robin Roberts (Effective and Authentic Communication), Elaine Welteroth (Designing your Career), Robert Reffkin (Buying and Selling Real Estate), Jeff Goodby and Rich Silverstein (Advertising and Creativity), Sarah Blakely (Self Made Entrepreneurship), Anna Wintour (Creativity and Leadership), Howard Schultz (Business Leadership), Diane von Furstenberg (Building a Fashion Brand)

-Science and Technology

2. Jane Goodall teaches Conservation

Course length: 29 video lessons totaling 5 hours and 6 minutes 

Dr Jane Goodall has worked in conservation for 6 decades and is famed for her groundbreaking study of chimpanzees and her passion for environmental activism. She’s published many books, including My Life with Chimpanzees, and runs the Jane Goodall Institute which is dedicated to conserving wildlife and promoting a more sustainable world.

Goodall has committed her life to educating people to appreciate and care for the planet. So you can trust that this MasterClass has been created in a way that will truly inspire you to find ways of making a tangible difference to the world. Jane’s teaching is engaging and informative and though she has hard messages to deliver, her approach is positive, solutions-based and uplifting.  

You will learn: 

  • How Jane Goodall came to study chimpanzees and wildlife in Africa
  • Many fascinating facts about animal and plant life around the globe
  • The interconnected threats humanity poses to wildlife
  • How extinction and environmental destruction are connected 
  • What you can do to support sustainability and animal welfare
  • How to effectively communicate conservation to others
  • Best ways to join the conservation sector – whether it’s your passion or future career
  • How to remain hopeful and inspire change 

Pros

  • An opportunity to learn from a top expert who feels like a friend
  • Covers the fundamental concepts of sustainability and conversation that will help you make a difference
  • Jane Goodall is an accessible yet charismatic speaker with a vast amount of knowledge on conservation 
  • Inspirational and uplifting content 

Cons

  • The focus is on sharing insightful stories and inspiring change than on teaching concrete conservation skills

Best for: Those beginning their conservation studies or environmental enthusiasts that want to learn more about the planet, wildlife, and sustainability from one of the best conservationists in the world. 

Click here to read our full Dr Jane Goodall MasterClass Review

1. Chris Hadfield teaches Space Exploration

Course length: 29 lessons totaling 7 hours and 47 minutes

Chris Hadfield is a passionate advocate for science, retired astronaut, engineer and one time fighter pilot. He’s flown three space missions, was the first Canadian to walk in space and spent six months in orbit commanding the International Space Station (ISS) where he performed his own version of Space Oddity (which has 49m views on YouTube).

This truly is a great MasterClass. Hadfield is an incredibly interesting person and in this class he's distilled decades of experience and knowledge into a really insightful course. And he’s done so in a way that’s transformative, accessible and fun. This class will change how you think not just about space, but about yourself and the future. 

You will learn:

  • All about space and exploration 
  • How astronauts approach problem solving
  • How rockets and orbital mechanics work
  • What it takes for humans to survive in space
  • What’s involved in commanding the ISS
  • Chris Hadfield’s perspective on space exploration
  • Spaceship design
  • The future of space travel
  • The technical and societal challenges of taking humans to Mars

Pros

  • Teaching from a world renowned astronaut and advocate for science
  • Learning supported with strong examples, props and resources
  • Well structured lessons that flow logically
  • It’s exciting and  makes you think!

Cons

  • More theoretical than practical (as you might expect)
  • Some lessons would benefit from more footage to break up the presentation

Best for: Anyone wanting a comprehensive overview of space exploration from one of the world’s most gifted scientific communicators. Also, anyone who’s intellectually curious or looking for life lessons on problem solving, leadership and being your best self. 

Click here to read our full Chris Hadfield MasterClass Review

Other Science and Technology MasterClasses include: Bill Nye (Science and Problem Solving), Neil deGrasse Tyson (Scientific Thinking and Communication), Matthew Walker (Science of Sleep)

-Sports and Gaming

3. Simone Biles teaches Gymnastics Fundamentals

Course Length: 17 videos totaling 2 hours and 11 minutes 

Simone Biles is the most decorated US gymnast of all time and a globally revered household name. But Biles has not had an easy path to fame and has had to channel unbelievable strength, discipline and resilience to win her 30 Olympic and World Championship medals. So if anyone knows how to build a successful gymnastics career from nothing, it’s her. 

That’s why her course is #3 on our list. This is a golden opportunity to learn from the world’s best in her field with lots of practical tips and advice for budding gymnasts. But beyond that, even if you’re not a gymnast, there’s a lot to learn from such a talented and driven young woman. I absolutely loved the class and found myself rewinding to rewatch skills with awe!

You will learn: 

  • Gymnastics fundamentals and advanced skills for each gymnastics discipline: uneven bars, floor, balance beam and vault
  • Which fundamental drills Biles comes back to again and again
  • Core objectives within each drill and practical advice such as how many reps to complete in each practice
  • How skills translate into competition, and where to watch out for deductions
  • How to prepare to build confidence
  • Simone’s own journey to becoming one of the best gymnasts of all time

Pros

  • Get to see Simone Biles in action and learn her top tips for levelling up your gymnastics
  • Biles is a great teacher: confident, clear and concise
  • Incredible on-screen graphics and animations work alongside Biles’ instruction to help you understand critical components 
  • A great combination of accessible skills and drills, and inspirational elite skill demonstrations
  • Excellent workbook with additional information and suggestions for getting the most out of your gymnastics journey

Cons

  • Not for everyone — gymnastics is a niche subject so not as accessible as some other MasterClasses
  • At least 4 classes focus on higher and elite level skills which will be out of reach for most students

Best for: Young gymnasts (with their parents!) and gymnastics coaches, Olympic hopefuls, anyone with an interest in the mindset of such a successful athlete, and of course, Simone Biles fans!

Click here to read our full Simone Biles MasterClass Review

2. Phil Ivey teaches Poker Strategy

Course Length: 12 videos totaling 3 hours and 30 minutes

Phil Ivey is widely recognised as one of the greatest poker players of all time. He’s won 10 World Series of Poker bracelets (the most coveted non-money poker prize), has achieved over $29 million in casino winnings and his net worth is $100m +.

Phil Ivey is a master of the mental side of poker and in this MasterClass he walks you through famous hands and what he was thinking throughout. The hand reviews alone make this class well worth the investment. I found that I was quickly able to bluff more convincingly while at the same time calling opponents in theirs.

You’ll learn how to:

  • Implement the strategies and techniques Ivey has used to become one of the most decorated poker players of all time
  • Master Pre and Postflop play to maximise your chances of winning, extract value from your opponents, and minimise risk
  • Use key fundamental concepts like Ranges, Position, and Board texture to your advantage
  • Disguise strong hands, bluff convincingly, read your opponents and induce tilt
  • Think like Phil Ivey through a series of world class hand reviews with elite poker players
  • Master the mental game, develop your judgement, and think critically 

Pros

  • Unique opportunity to learn directly from Phil Ivey
  • Materially improved my own poker playing
  • Insanely good hand reviews

Cons

  • Definitely not for everyone
  • Light on poker math (odds and probabilities)

Best for: someone that is serious about improving their game and wants to learn from one of the greatest players of all time. Less suited for complete beginners and those seeking a math-heavy course.

Click here to read our full Phil Ivey MasterClass Review

1. Stephen Curry teaches Shooting, Ball Handling and Scoring

Course Length: 17 video lessons totaling 3 hours and 41 minutes

Stephen “Steph” Curry is point guard for the Golden State Warriors. He showcases his terrifying skill as a shooter each and every time he appears on court. He’s a  7x NBA all star and a 2x MVP who has quite simply revolutionized the sport. 

Curry’s course ranks #1 because it’s so cleverly curated and taught. The attention to detail is brilliant, with great explanations of the biomechanics of the techniques, and common mistakes and how to avoid them. The training routines have a great learning curve and can be implemented into your practice straight away.  Easily one of the best courses I’ve taken to date.

You will learn: 

  • Basketball fundamentals and some advanced tips for core techniques such as shooting, dribbling, rim shots and more
  • Effective drills for each of these techniques to help you develop a daily practice routine
  • How to apply these drills and techniques in a live game. You’ll also see how Steph himself applies them 
  • How to build your confidence as a basketball player and deal with performance pressure
  • The importance of film study and why you should do it

Pros

  • High-quality instruction on basketball technique, with great attention to detail
  • Learn personal tricks and drills Stephen Curry used to become one of the best players of all time
  • Film study of Curry’s games with commentary from the man himself
  • Well-designed workbook with detailed workouts and practice routines

Cons

  • Some lessons may be less useful for more advanced players
  • Less focus on partner drills and team play 

Best for: Beginner/intermediate basketball players who want to up their shooting skills and learn solid fundamental techniques. Particularly players who want to learn how to develop an effective training routine.

Click here to read our full Stephen Curry MasterClass Review

Other Sports and Gaming MasterClasses include: Robin Arzon (Mental Strength), Wayne Gretzky (Athlete Mindset), Tony Hawk (Skateboarding), Misty Copeland (Technique and Artistry), Will Wright (Game Design and Theory), Daniel Negreanu (Poker), Gary Kasparov (Chess), Serena Williams (Tennis)

-Wellness

4. RuPaul teaches Self Expression and Authenticity

Course length: 16 lessons with a total run time of 2 hours

RuPaul is the most iconic drag queen of the 21st century. His Drag Race has inspired millions of people all over the world and is the most awarded reality competition show in Television Academy history. And he’s one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world.

But on his journey to self realisation Ru has experienced trauma, addiction and prejudice. And that’s why his course ranks #3 here. Anyone struggling with confidence issues will benefit from the actionable advice Ru offers to help you uncover your true self and express it confidently. Ru shares the techniques he’s used to overcome obstacles and live life unapologetically in a genuine and inspirational way. 

Learn how to:

  • Find your true self and express it confidently
  • Be mindful of how past hurts influence present actions and identity
  • Attract people on your wavelength
  • Overcome setbacks and let go of what’s not working
  • Nurture and reassure your inner child
  • Break free of bullies
  • Use meditation, breathing and visualization to manage anxiety
  • See failures as opportunities to improve
  • Understand your proportions so you can correct your silhouette
  • Identify clothing that emphasizes your best points
  • Refine your makeup

Pros

  • Unique opportunity to learn directly from RuPaul
  • Lots of universally applicable advice
  • Inspiring guest appearances
  • Genuine and passionate delivery
  • Upbeat and positive feel

Cons

  • Some aspects geared more towards drag culture
  • Lacks specific ‘How To’ advice in some areas

Best for: RuPaul devotees, gay men and women will gain hugely from this class.  That said, anyone needing a confidence boost or who is just looking to reboot their lives will find a wealth of universally applicable tips to help you be your happiest authentic self.

Click here to read our full RuPaul MasterClass Review

3. Donna Fahri teaches Yoga Foundations

Course length: 10 video lessons totaling 1 hour and 58 minutes

Donna Farhi is a Yoga teacher with over four decades of practice behind her. She’s written five books on practising and teaching yoga and has taught all over the world. Her teaching combines anatomical principles, breathing and moving. 

I’ve ranked her #2 here because she seeks to cultivate an inner awareness that enables students to evolve their own practice safely, in line with their own specific needs and abilities. This near ‘individual’ focus is a rare thing to find in a video class, never mind from one of the most sought after teachers in the world. And it helped me realize the complete benefits of yoga for the first time. 

Learn how to: 

  • Commit yourself to a program of relaxation
  • Overcome limiting conditions (stiff joints, etc)
  • Warm up
  • Set up for basic poses
  • Listen to your body so you can evolve your practice to match your needs
  • Perform the Sun Salutation along with 13 postures – with different ways in and props to allow for you and your individual body
  • Apply what you learn ON the mat, OFF the mat

Pros

  • Lessons from one of the most sought after yoga teachers in the world
  • Comprehensive course on Yoga fundamentals grounded in anatomical principles 
  • Well structured course that builds understanding and practice incrementally
  • Focus on inner awareness to evolve & personalize your own safe practice
  • Improves flexibility and releases tension
  • Boosts your mood and concentration
  • It’s effective – for me anyway

Cons

  • Not for everyone (see below for details)

Best for: Beginners, anyone who feels they ‘can’t do Yoga’ or has tried it and had a bad experience. I would say it’s less applicable to anyone above intermediate level, although if that’s you, you could still get a lot of value with an all access MasterClass pass

Click here to read our full Donna Fahri MasterClass Review

2. James Clear teaches Build Habits for Success

Course length: 10 videos totaling 1 hour and 30 minutes

James Clear is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller, Atomic Habits, which has sold more than 15 million copies globally. He's also a motivational speaker who’s worked with the likes of Capital One, General Electric, Honda, Intel, LinkedIn, McKinsey, Merrill Lynch and more.

His focus is on building good habits, breaking bad ones and improving performance using techniques backed by science. This class is a good mix of clearly explained theory and practical exercises. It provides a simple, manageable and logical way to build habits that stick, eliminate bad habits and set yourself up for consistent, incremental success.

Pros

  • Teaching from a renowned expert in the field of behaviour change 
  • Carefully structured to promote learning
  • Good mix of theory and practice
  • Motivating and uplifting
  • Cinematic quality and great use of supporting footage

Cons

  • A short class – though by his very nature Clear is not a procrastinator
  • Duplicates some of what’s in his book – but in a more immediate and powerful way

Best for: Anyone who has struggled to maintain good resolutions and habits (and stop bad ones). Also those interested in finding a simple system that leads to big, and compounding, improvements in their lives.

Read our full James Clear MasterClass review.

1. Jon Kabat-Zinn teaches Mindfulness and Meditation

Course length: 20 videos totaling 6 hours and 31 minutes

Jon Kabat-Zinn is an American former professor of medicine, internationally recognized author and teacher, and is generally regarded to be the godfather of modern mindfulness. He’s devoted half a century to bringing mindfulness and mediation into the mainstream, demystifying it, grounding it in a scientific context and making it accessible to all.

Simply put, Kabat-Zinn is a phenomenal teacher. His practice is grounded in science and his ability to communicate not just how, but why, things work helps you fully engage, calm your mind and make the most of every single moment.

Learn how to:

  • Increase self awareness, focus on the present, and reduce negative emotions
  • Build skills to better respond to stress and manage pain
  • Become more mindful in your actions
  • Meditate in a variety of ways and poses
  • Understand the science behind how and why mediation works

Pros

  • Comprehensive course grounded in scientific principles and taught by a credible and respected teacher
  • Well structured, lessons build on and support each other
  • Great balance of theory and practice
  • Extremely effective (or it was for me)
  • Massive feel good factor if you give it a go

Cons

  • The class itself needs some time commitment
  • Would benefit from footage to break up the presentation

Best for: Anyone who wants a greater level of health and wellbeing and is open minded and curious. Also great for anyone who has struggled with mindfulness and mediation in the past and would appreciate a fuller and more scientific understanding of its benefits.

Click here to read our full Jon Kabat-Zinn MasterClass Review

Other Wellness MasterClasses include: Joe Holder (Fitness and Wellness Fundamentals), Emily Morse (Sex and Communication)

-Design and Style

2. Tan France teaches Style for Everyone

Course length: 12 lessons totaling 2 hours and 17 minutes

Tan France is an internationally celebrated style icon, cohost of Emmy award winning Queer Eye and the author of NYT biographical bestseller, Naturally Tan. He’s helped literally thousands of people uncover their unique style. His mission: to make people shine, no matter who they are or what they look like.

The class kicks off with sound principles that underpin the whole course and the lessons progressively build skills. Tan’s passion and sincerity for the worthiness of his craft are tangible throughout. He delivers a MasterClass that provides the tools you need to unearth your inner style and feel positive and poised every day

Learn how to:

  • Discover the best version of you and express it confidently
  • See style as a vehicle for getting what you want out of life
  • Understand what style is and how the principles of style work
  • Build a capsule wardrobe
  • Choose the right style and fit for your proportions
  • Incorporate print, color and texture
  • Be selective with inspiration and shop smart
  • Be well packaged at all times
  • Set trends, not be a slave to fashion

Pros

  • Learn from an internationally celebrated style icon
  • Inspired delivery and teaching
  • Thoughtfully structured
  • Good balance of theory and practice
  • The workbook is a great post course reference
  • Lively community of fellow students
  • Lush production values

Cons

  • More suited to style novices
  • Even more visual transformations would be a treat

Best for: Anyone, regardless of age, gender or race who wants to discover their best self and express it confidently. Those at the beginning of their style journey will gain the most as this course does start with the basics.

Click here to read our full Tan France MasterClass Review

1. Bobbi Brown teaches Makeup and Beauty

Length of course: 19 lessons totalling 3 hours and 48 minutes

Bobbi Brown began her career as a makeup artist in NYC in the 1980s and has been a household name in the industry for over 40 years. She has her own makeup line, Jones Road; runs a luxury-boutique hotel and curates JustBOBBI.com. She’s a beauty industry guru and a badass female entrepreneur to boot!

This class is jam packed with incredible tips that can only be gleaned from a lifetime of working with makeup. But it’s Bobbi herself that makes it so special; she’s such a champion for elevating others. Her class gives you everything you need to learn to love how you look and put in that extra effort to feel invincible. I truly found this MasterClass life-changing and will be watching it over and over.

You will learn: 

  • Top secrets to looking great, whether in day to day life, on the runway or under studio lighting
  • Bobbi Brown’s tried and tested techniques gleaned from a 40 year career working as an MUA
  • Transferrable techniques that are easily customized to suit you
  • Business and life tips that are applicable to both aspiring makeup artists and anyone pursuing a passion project
  • How to feel and look like the best version of you possible

Pros

  • Demonstrations on a range of different models of different skin tones and ages makes it easy to understand how to adapt a look to your skin
  • Amazing tips that I would have never thought of in a million years
  • I came away from the course taking so much more pride in my appearance — and I think you will too!

Cons

  • Focuses on a lot of basics so could be too simple for a fully fledged makeup guru
  • Very specific makeup look

Best for: anyone who wants to look and feel better about their appearance, anyone stuck in a makeup rut who needs to get back to basics, and of course… Bobbi Brown fans!

Click here to read our full Bobbi Brown MasterClass Review

Other Design and Style MasterClasses include: David Carson (Graphic Design), Kelly Wearstler (features #1 in our best online interior design classes), Frank Gehry (Design and Architecture), Marc Jabobs (Fashion Design)

-Home and Lifestyle

2. Ron Finley teaches Gardening

Course length: 10 lessons totaling 2 hours and 11 minutes.

Ron Finley shot to fame after his 2013 ‘guerilla gardener’ TED Talk. In it, he described how he took on the system and turned neglected LA wastelands into fertile arcadia. Transforming entire communities in the process. It took passion, gardening know-how, and great powers of persuasion to succeed. And he did.

This makes him the perfect person to teach a MasterClass on gardening. And it’s why he features #2 on our list. Ron does a superb job of explaining why he takes the actions he does and what would happen if he didn’t. So you can avoid setbacks and keep progressing. This punchy motivating MasterClass inspires you to grow what you eat and bring beauty to the world, quickly and easily, even if you don’t have a garden! 

Learn how to:

  • Grow “your own damn food!”
  • Get creative in any space (no matter how small) and make it beautiful
  • Appreciate the holistic benefits of nurturing a plant from seed to fruition
  • Identify your climate zone and create your own microclimate
  • Understand your soil and how to improve and enrich it
  • Create planters out of almost anything
  • NOT kill your plants
  • Use various techniques for energizing, regenerating or rescuing plants
  • Multiply plants (and save money) using propagation

Pros

  • Direct, clear no nonsense teaching style
  • Carefully structured with clever content
  • Proves you don’t need a garden to garden
  • Great selection of plants to demonstrate different techniques

Cons

  • Lacking in advice on pest control
  • Lots of cussing! (This doesn’t offend me but it’s worth pointing out)

Best for: beginners to intermediate gardeners, and anyone who thinks gardening isn’t for them – but is open to the idea of giving it a go. Ron’s down to earth passion and no nonsense style will convince even those who think they have ‘black thumbs’ that anything’s possible.

Click here to read our full Ron Finley MasterClass Review

1. Brandon McMillan teaches Dog Training

Course length: 15 lessons totaling 2 hours and 55 minutes

Brandon McMillan has been in the animal training business since the age of 4. After training a service dog for an Afghan veteran, he realised his calling – to focus on training dogs to make lives better. Since then, the Emmy Award winning host of Lucky Dog has rescued hundreds of ‘untrainable’ dogs and transformed them into well mannered companions using the same system taught in this MasterClass.

Brandon clearly has the credentials to be teaching a MasterClass on dog training. He understands the importance of explaining ‘why’ as well as ‘how’ and has created a class that is progressively structured and underpinned with sound theory. I was guilty of letting my dog get the better of me when trying to use other training techniques. This positive easy to follow system helped me deal with the results and remain consistent in the future!

Learn how to:

  • Successfully master 7 common commands
  • Overcome common behavioral issues – including housebreaking
  • Build trust with your dog to maximize and accelerate progress
  • Effectively deploy the control, train, treat process
  • Embed training for long lasting results
  • Understand when, and for how long, training sessions should take place to optimize results

Pros

  • It works (for me and my dog at least)
  • Well structured
  • Great balance of theory vs practice
  • Great delivery and teaching style
  • Includes lots of canine students of different breed, size and temperament
  • Key points and key takeaways are highlighted
  • Great supporting workbook

Cons

  • More geared toward early training
  • Does not address some problem behaviors

Best for: Those thinking of getting a puppy or who already have a young puppy. Plus anyone with an older dog who’s missed some training steps, or has history that has resulted in trust or behavior issues. 

Click here to read our full Brandon McMillan MasterClass Review

-Community and Government

1. Paul Krugman teaches Economics and Society

Course length: 22 lessons, totaling 4 hours and 45 minutes

In his four decade career, Krugman has held professorships at America’s most prestigious universities, written 27 books, won a Nobel Prize and has come to be acknowledged as possibly the most influential economist in the world. He’s also widely noted for his commitment to making abstract economic concepts accessible and relatable. And that’s why he’s here in the #1 spot. 

This is a class that really makes you think, delivered in an accessible way with great use of storytelling, analogy, charts and animated graphics to support learning. Krugman’s MasterClass provides a structured framework for making sense of the world that will shift and sharpen your thinking on major issues such as health care, taxes and trade.

Learn how to:

  • Use economic principles to analyze events and issues
  • Appreciate how economic thought has evolved
  • Understand why the 2008 crisis happened
  • Think critically about trade, globalization, taxation and private health care
  • Understand the massive expansion of China and its impact on the US economy
  • Adopt sound strategies to check for accuracy of data and information
  • Challenge your own assumptions and biases
  • Generally become a more aware, active citizen

Pros

  • Tuition from one of the world’s most influential Nobel prize winning economists
  • Accessible teaching style and a warm and self-deprecating approach
  • Good use of analogy and storytelling to support learning
  • Super helpful graphics and animations
  • Genuinely educational (in my view)
  • Great sources of data and information provided
  • References the work of other economists

Cons

  • Biased towards the US economy and a liberal view of economics
  • Pre Covid-19 – needs a bonus chapter discussing the impact of Coronavirus

Best for: Anyone who is open minded and intellectually curious and does not have a professional economics background.

Click here to read our full Paul Krugman MasterClass Review

Other Community and Government MasterClasses include: Doris Kearns Goodwin (US Presidential History and Leadership), Bill Clinton (Inclusive Leadership), Hillary Clinton (the Power of Resilience), David Axelrod and Karl Rove (Campaign Strategy and Messaging)

How to find the best MasterClass for you

Finding MasterClasses

MasterClass offers several ways for you to explore the platform. You can:

  • Browse its library by category and sample lessons for free
  • Scroll down the Welcome Screen to find what’s new and trending
  • Search for instructors, classes or topics
  • Watch the YouTube trailers which give a great feel for each class
  • Or Read our MasterClass review to get a good understanding of how the platform works
MasterClass free trial

How does MasterClass work?

MasterClass is a subscription platform with three plans:

  • Standard/Individual (single user)
  • Duo/Plus (two users simultaneously access the platform on separate devices)
  • Premium/Family (six users can access the platform on separate devices at once)

The Table below shows you what you can expect for each kind of subscription:

IndividualDuoFamily
Users who can access MasterClass at the same time126
Access to every MasterClass
Access to MasterClass sessions
Watch on computer, TV, phone or tablet
Download for offline viewingNo

Once you’ve signed up you have 30 days to explore everything MasterClass has to offer. If you change your mind within that period there’s a no quibble money back guarantee.

And there’s lots to explore.

There are 190+ MasterClasses available across 11 topics. Each one comes with a downloadable instructor’s guide containing assignments, supporting and additional information, suggested readings, links to relevant resources, etc. 

MasterClasses are pre recorded and self paced. You can dip in and out whenever and wherever you like. They are usually broken into around 20 separate lessons lasting (on average) around 10 minutes each.

Your subscription also gives you full access to MasterClass Sessions. These are time bound classes that you take with a cohort of fellow students. The format is more hands-on and project based and you get to engage with your peers and receive feedback from teaching assistants.

At the time of writing, an individual MasterClass subscription is $10 per month billed annually. For full details of the MasterClass pricing structure and how you can radically reduced your costs with premium/family membership, check our article on MasterClass cost. MasterClass also offers gift options.

Final words

MasterClass provides an amazing opportunity to learn from globally acclaimed masters of their respective trades. The platform does a great job of curating the wisdom and backstories of its teachers into carefully structured courses. All in one place and all in incredible cinematic quality.

There are always actionable insights that you can apply directly to your professional and personal life. But MasterClass can’t take you from zero to hero. The more practical classes (food, magic) will give you start to finish instructions. But you will not learn to play the guitar or the piano from scratch after a couple of hours with Tom Morello and Herbie Hancock!

The best way to get a feel for MasterClass is to watch some of their YouTube trailers. If you enjoy them, then it’s safe to say you'll enjoy MasterClass.

And since you can sample every class for free – and have 30 days to get your money back after subscribing, you really have nothing to lose by giving MasterClass a go. 

What is the best overall MasterClass?

Of the 90 MasterClasses we have reviewed in full, the best MasterClass is Gordon Ramsay on cooking

What is the best cooking MasterClass?

Cooking with Gordon Ramsay with Thomas Keller a close second.

What is the best writing MasterClass?

Salmon Rushdie teaches storytelling and writing.

What is the best music MasterClass?

Tom Morello teaches electric guitar.

What is the best filmmaking MasterClass?

James Cameron teaches filmmaking.

What is the best photography MasterClass?

Annie Leibowitz teaches photography.

What is the best acting MasterClass?

Helen Mirren teaches acting.

What is the best screenwriting MasterClass?

Shonda Rhimes teaches writing for television.

3 thoughts on “Best MasterClass Review”

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