Preliminary Task:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFN9f-1zpus&list=PL41C7588BE5F684A3&index=12&feature=plpp_video
Thriller Opening:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Io2aW0nfXzs&context=C484766dADvjVQa1PpcFPBcYQ9ZoE2HQ8etHEgfitOHDu99hgDsOI=
It is important to understand the dramatic contrast in criteria for these two tasks. From the preliminary task, we were expected mainly to grab a vague understanding of how the camera we will be using works as well as the editing software. A small range of camera angles were to be used in order for us to begin to understand the different shots that can be achieved with the equipment we are given. Other tasks included applying the 180 degree rule, successfully demonstrating match on action and using shot/reverse shot - all very simple aspects of the camera 'world'.
The expectations of our thriller was much more advanced. We were expected to successfully utilise and develop all aspects of mis-en-scene including location, characters, costume, lighting, camera shots, sound etc. We had to use independent research to gain the knowledge of how, when, why and where to use these techniques in order to demonstrate, symbolise and represent certain messages to our chosen target audience.
Although the preliminary task did not fully prepare us for what we had to come, I feel that the planning and research we carried out to support our practical work aided us in creating successful thriller projects. Many thriller films and the symbolism they contain were drilled into us, as well as our own independent research.
The step from preliminary to final was drastic and the main difference was from using different aspects of a generic thriller mis-en-scene to gaining an understanding of why we were using these conventions.
Our research for our preliminary task was very basic. Because we were only just getting to grips with media and the different shots used in a film, we focused on using a wide range of shots and getting them just right, rather than choosing them for a specific reason.
The research for our thriller opening was of course much more advanced and required more time and effort. To develop our knowledge of the genre, we produced many case studies into different films from the genre as well as certain scenes within the films. In order for to make the most out of the project I saw it as necessary to carry out independent research also. With the preliminary task providing us with a basic understanding of the majority of aspects within the mis-en-scene, we were now able to use these as a base to expand on and ensure we knew 'why' these aspects will be used. The research process was arguably the most vital in determining a successful project and without it and with just the understanding we had at the preliminary stage, our films would have no significance as a thriller.
Our preliminary task required us to tell a very simple story. This did not need much thought and no meaning was needed for the camera angles, mis-en-scene, editing techniques, sound, location, costume, casting roles... I could go on. On the contrary, in our thriller, it was essential that every, tiny, little detail of the project was thoroughly examined to ensure that the symbolism of each second of the film was present. Each camera angle used was symbolic and had a meaning. Each location was chosen for a specific reason. Each character was played by an actor for a valid reason and the costume on each of them symbolised something individual. All editing techniques were used for effect and not just to look cool. See below a few of my favourite examples of how we used different aspects to symbolise and represent different messages in our thriller.
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| The obvious comparison here between car and man shows a juxtaposition in size. The huge car compared to the small teenager signifies the boys vulnerability. |
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| Only half of the boys body is showing here and his face is not on screen. This presents an enigma and questions can be raised as to whether or not the boy is as he seems. (Suggesting homosexuality). |
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| The stairs used in this shot symbolise the struggle that Robbie has as a homosexual within the youth of today's society. This technique is also used in Carol Reed's 'The Third Man' . |
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| The bars in this shot represent prison cell bars which signify both crime and violence - a key theme associated with the youth's of todays society. This technique is used by Quentin Tarantino in 'Jackie Brown'. |
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| The dramatic contrast in lighting to the previous setting here symbolises how the character of Robbie has entered a 'whole new world' much like in Peter Weir's film 'Witness'. |
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| The cross dissolve transition used here shows an advance in time. |
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| The dirtiness of the sink here shows the disgusting representation that our society of today is stereotyped as. The dirt on the side could also be otherwise viewed as blood - therefore connoting violence. |
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| This close up shot of a symbolic prop here draws focus solely to this object and forces the audience to concentrate on the more thorough detail and meaning behind the shot as it is the only thing within this shot. |
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| When viewed in video, this shot appears in slow motion which creates the feel of disorientation amongst the audience consuming. |
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| The titles we used for our thriller required serious thought. It is important to strike a balance between something that stands out and is easy to read as well as something quite different. |
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| This low angle shot makes the audience feel vulnerable as they are looking up at the attack/violence. It also means we sympathise with the character of Robbie as he is the victim of the attack. |
Just these few examples clearly show how every aspect of the film are thoroughly considered in order to portray the message intended by me, the director, to my audience.
Our preliminary task did not require much thought into casting decisions. There was no acting as such rather than two figures needed in order to shoot a compilation of shots used in media.
Our thriller opening on the other hand was the opposite. Great thought was required in order to determine who was perfect for each role. Our research helped us to do this. Looking at successful thrillers and pin-pointing how and why the characters did what they did allowed us to see how they did it, highlighting once again how important and useful the research element of the project was. A full analysis of our casting decision can be found here:
http://charlieclarkemedia.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/character-profilescasting-decisions.html
The preliminary task did allow us to improve our skills of working as a group and gave us the challenge of a deadline to meet - much like our final project. We each began to understand how the media industry provides tough competition and not everybody will always agree. The preliminary task forced us to deal with these dilemmas so that we were able to oversee them when it mattered, our thriller opening.This prepared us well for our main project.
We had to be mature from the first day we began to plan. Having a slightly larger group than what we did in the preliminary task had both its positives and negatives. At some points it was harder to control and take in all input from everybody. However, at the same time it was good to receive a wider range of ideas. Tasks could also be carried out more easily simply because of the fact we had more people. Since the preliminary task we have all learnt to adapt to each other's way of working which is essential in this industry and without a versatile method of working the process would be impossible.
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