Thursday 17 March 2011
Peer Feedback.
good change and variety of camera shots, POV was very good and the narrative was easy to understand. The costume fitted with the genre of a thriller. Good non diagetic sound, slow paced to create tension, good use of high pitched sound track. Use of jump and cross cuts worked well, however lighting was slightly odd when it got darker in some places and light in others. The use of the shaky camera worked well and fitted with the genre. some editing needed to be improved, does not make sense. good variety of camera shots for example high angle looked good. Also use of tracking shot worked well, sound track creates suspense well,
Wednesday 16 March 2011
Thriller Music
The music that you would find in a conventional thriller would be tense, non and diegetic sound. This would get the audience "on the edge of their seats" and also add to the atmosphere of the film. For our production we chose to include high pitched, stringed instruments, this proved to create a tense and dramatic atmosphere and had a large contrast between the other part of out soundtrack, which is slow paced and low pitched to create an opposite reaction from the audience. This also emphasized the tense moments in our project which would make the audience react more to our project.
Lessons
Throughout our lessons we have used a range of computer software to complete our piece; These include:
*Garage Band
*Final Cut
Using Garage band.
Garage band is used to create sound. We used it to create our background sound track.
Using Final cut.
Final cut is what we used to create our opening sequence. it is used to edit, move and create effects allowing us to make the sequence flow.
*Garage Band
*Final Cut
Using Garage band.
Garage band is used to create sound. We used it to create our background sound track.
Using Final cut.
Final cut is what we used to create our opening sequence. it is used to edit, move and create effects allowing us to make the sequence flow.
The BBFC
The BBFC stands for the "British board of film classification'.
The BBFC are responsible for putting the age certification on films, it may be:
U - Suitable for all
PG - Parental Guidance
12A or 12 - suitable for aged 12 and over.
15 - suitable for aged 15 and over
18 - suitable for adults.
Each certification has set of guidelines to meet in order to be in that age range, as the age increases the more guidelines there are.
Our chosen age certificate is a 15. we decided to choose this because the content within our opening sequence didn't fit the 12 certification guidelines due to the fact that our sequence contains firstly moderate violence, then theme; mature themes that are acceptable for young teenagers. finally imitable behaviour; this is dangerous behaviour that could be copied. And easily accessible weapons should not be glamorized.
The BBFC are responsible for putting the age certification on films, it may be:
U - Suitable for all
PG - Parental Guidance
12A or 12 - suitable for aged 12 and over.
15 - suitable for aged 15 and over
18 - suitable for adults.
Each certification has set of guidelines to meet in order to be in that age range, as the age increases the more guidelines there are.
Wednesday 2 March 2011
Feedback from rough cut
* Shots were mainly close-ups which show the characters detail which introduces the story and the main character.
*Good costume. They have thought it through properly however the costume could fit with any genre.
*Good use of slow-motion effects, bullet time creates lack of urgency / suspense.
*Diegetic sound creates realism.
*They need to add more sound and add an active storyline.
*The slow motion effects work very well.
*Good costume. They have thought it through properly however the costume could fit with any genre.
*Good use of slow-motion effects, bullet time creates lack of urgency / suspense.
*Diegetic sound creates realism.
*They need to add more sound and add an active storyline.
*The slow motion effects work very well.
Wednesday 16 February 2011
conventions of a thriller production.
These are some of the main features and conventions that you would see in a typical thriller film: film that provide thrills and keeps the audience cliff-hanging at the "edge of their seats" as the plot builds towards a climax The tension usually arises when the character or characters is placed in a menacing situation, a mystery, or a trap from which escaping seems impossible. Life is threatened, usually because the principal character is unsuspectingly or unknowingly involved in a dangerous or potentially deadly situation. Thrillers are most commonly filmed in recognisable setting, this allows the audience to be familiar with the setting and this adds to the realism of the thriller. Thrillers often overlap with mystery stories but are distinguished by the structure of their plots. In a thriller, the hero must thwart the plans of an enemy rather than uncover a crime that has already happened. While a murder mystery would be spoiled by a premature disclosure of the murderer's identity, in a thriller the identity of a murderer or other villain is typically known all along. Thrillers also occur on a much grander scale: the crimes that must be prevented are serial or mass murder, terrorism, assassination, or the overthrow of governments. Jeopardy and violent confrontations are standard plot elements. While a mystery climaxes when the mystery is solved, a thriller climaxes when the hero finally defeats the villain, saving his own life and often the lives of others.
Thrillers are influenced by film noir. In the sense that they have similar plot and narrative points, also the characters within the film would posses certain characteristics that would either be used against the protagonist or help him or her to overcome the situation in the film. A thriller would also include some enigmas in the plot, an enigma is a secrete that is shown towards the beginning of the film and is answered at the end of the film however sometimes film producers can decide not to reveal all the enigmas and therefore create an even greater sense of mystery and leave the audience with questions still unanswered.Thursday 10 February 2011
Why Thrillers Thrive
Our summary of 'why thrillers thrive' is that because a thriller consists of a kind of experience that we wouldn't experience ourselves, or by having the same life with a difference; the difference being an emotional disturbance - therefore creating a type of 'thrill' - the starting point of why thrillers thrive. The experience throughout a thriller also makes the audience feel shaken up, grow sluggish and jellified; unlike any type of film; but this type of film makes it possible for experiences that make us feel like this; but at the same time having the feeling of being safe. Thrillers thrive on the fact that the experiences created produce firsthand experience enclosed in a screen. The article also explains that cinema can leave the spectator with a subconscious assurance of absolute safety, and yet surprise his imagination into playing tricks on him. Another way that makes thrillers s successful as they are is the 'secondary type of thrill'. This is participation, this is creating the effect that danger is coming or is about to happen to a character that the audience has grown sympathetic for. This in turn makes screen more effective that theatre as great danger can be created when in actual fact there is no danger about to occur. During the winter and autumn the thrillers are usually released as this is the peak time that people go and watch them. The article also explain that 'Horrors' differ from 'thrillers' they both have different effects in which they use in order to thrill the audience in some way. However the main aims are slightly different due to the fact that 'thrillers' aim to create a safe environment but in turn thrill and excite spectators, whereas 'Horrors' sometimes push boundaries too far and leave spectators genuinely scared and upset - sometimes for a long period of time afterward opposed to creating a thrill , exciting the audiences and making them in a way feel better about themselves like most thrillers do.
Overall what makes a thriller thrive is the fact that you're unknowingly feeling secure and safe, but more knowing that it could be you in the place of a specific character; so mind games are being played on you, or a sense of being insecure; giving you a thrill in which you feel unstable, and again sluggish, jellified and shaken up. Spectators enjoy thrills and different way in which they are made to feel insecure but unselfconsciously knowing that they are safe, all of the points made are the elements that make thrillers thrive and make them as successful as they are.
location recce.
we have one location setting. in Cambridge around Jesus lane. such as round the streets and corners. some of the restraints that we might face during filming include: public interference, bad weather, or excessive noise to make our filming more difficult to produce. another hindrance that we might face during filming would be if we were obstructed by the public when trying to film our sequence for example unwanted extras might get in the shot. also if the road is blocked or there is construction work, this will stop us from being able to film our particular shots and get the right setting for our sequence.
Wednesday 9 February 2011
Target Audience.
our target audience for our opening sequence would be young adults. this is because it contains elements of crime at the core of the narrative. another reason why our opening sequence would appeal to young adults between the age of 17-25 is that it has imitable behavior, this would mean that it would be unsuitable for anyone under the age of 15 to watch this particular opening sequence for example there is a point in the narrative where the main is smoking. this would be unsuitable for people under the age of 15 because they might try and imitate the actions seen on film because younger people are more susceptible to things being shown on screen.
the guidelines that the BBFC follow to make a film or production a 15 are:
Moderate language is allowed. The use of strong language (for example, ‘fuck’) must be infrequent.
our target audience for our opening sequence would be young adults. this is because it contains elements of crime at the core of the narrative. another reason why our opening sequence would appeal to young adults between the age of 17-25 is that it has imitable behavior, this would mean that it would be unsuitable for anyone under the age of 15 to watch this particular opening sequence for example there is a point in the narrative where the main is smoking. this would be unsuitable for people under the age of 15 because they might try and imitate the actions seen on film because younger people are more susceptible to things being shown on screen.
the guidelines that the BBFC follow to make a film or production a 15 are:
Discrimination
Discriminatory language or behaviour must not be endorsed by the work as a whole. Aggressive discriminatory language or behaviour is unlikely to be acceptable unless clearly condemned.Drugs
Any misuse of drugs must be infrequent and should not be glamorised or give instructional detail.Horror
Moderate physical and psychological threat may be permitted, provided disturbing sequences are not frequent or sustained.Imitable behaviour
Dangerous behaviour (for example, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on detail which could be copied, or appear pain or harm free. Easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised.
Language
Moderate language is allowed. The use of strong language (for example, ‘fuck’) must be infrequent.Nudity
Nudity is allowed, but in a sexual context must be brief and discreet.Sex
Sexual activity may be briefly and discreetly portrayed. Sex references should not go beyond what is suitable for young teenagers. Frequent crude references are unlikely to be acceptable.Theme
Mature themes are acceptable, but their treatment must be suitable for young teenagers.
Wednesday 2 February 2011
mise en scene:
Lighting. there will be a mixture of natural light, due to the fact that we are shooting in the day time. also we are going to use monochrome in some parts of our sequence. another lighting element we plan to use in our opening sequence is the use of dim lighting and dark lighting. these particular elements of lighting all come together to produce a sense of realism and make our sequence more believable. this also creates a dark aspect to our opening sequence and builds an atmosphere to create tension and mystery.
Costume. there is only going to be one character wearing costume. he is going to be wearing a smartish black suit, including a hat. however a tie and waste will not be included in the male characters costume. he will also be wearing smart but slightly scuffed shoes. the only prop that the male character is going to have is a cigarette.
location. our opening sequence is going to be set near Cambridge town center, and along jesus lane. we are going to use the narrow ally ways and corners in the street in our sequence.
Lighting. there will be a mixture of natural light, due to the fact that we are shooting in the day time. also we are going to use monochrome in some parts of our sequence. another lighting element we plan to use in our opening sequence is the use of dim lighting and dark lighting. these particular elements of lighting all come together to produce a sense of realism and make our sequence more believable. this also creates a dark aspect to our opening sequence and builds an atmosphere to create tension and mystery.
Costume. there is only going to be one character wearing costume. he is going to be wearing a smartish black suit, including a hat. however a tie and waste will not be included in the male characters costume. he will also be wearing smart but slightly scuffed shoes. the only prop that the male character is going to have is a cigarette.
location. our opening sequence is going to be set near Cambridge town center, and along jesus lane. we are going to use the narrow ally ways and corners in the street in our sequence.
Monday 31 January 2011
Script.
male character perched up against a wall wearing a smart suit with hat, lighting up a cigarette.
male character still perched up against the wall, characters face to establish emotion.
male character walks of shot with a strut like walk to evoke confidants in himself and portray a sense of mystery.
the camera being portrayed as another character follows the male character round the corner in a slow and cautious way.
the camera/character approaches the end of the corner, slowly peeks round as if the character is peering round with his head.
the male character suddenly jumps out at the camera, conveying the action strangling the camera. the camera/other character only sees his arms and lower body, camera flares around, when camera re establishes sense of control and sight.
the male character pushes the camera in a forceful way, the camera/character remains on the floor and can only see the male character's feet in front of the character. the camera however still can not see of identify who the male character is.
camera fades to black, and the title sequence appears.
male character perched up against a wall wearing a smart suit with hat, lighting up a cigarette.
male character still perched up against the wall, characters face to establish emotion.
male character walks of shot with a strut like walk to evoke confidants in himself and portray a sense of mystery.
the camera being portrayed as another character follows the male character round the corner in a slow and cautious way.
the camera/character approaches the end of the corner, slowly peeks round as if the character is peering round with his head.
the male character suddenly jumps out at the camera, conveying the action strangling the camera. the camera/other character only sees his arms and lower body, camera flares around, when camera re establishes sense of control and sight.
the male character pushes the camera in a forceful way, the camera/character remains on the floor and can only see the male character's feet in front of the character. the camera however still can not see of identify who the male character is.
camera fades to black, and the title sequence appears.
Thursday 27 January 2011
Feedback of Pitch
The feedback we got from the presentation was a mix of positive and constructive criticism.
The positives comments we got back included: good style and choice of clothing, also our location setting had good comments about it as well.
The positives comments we got back included: good style and choice of clothing, also our location setting had good comments about it as well.
Wednesday 26 January 2011
Monday 24 January 2011
Narrative:
One character, wearing formal clothes, preferably a smart suit, shoes and hat (james bond type). A lot of short, quick, some jilted shots that reveal very limited knowledge about the character (enigma's). Walking with some sense of intensity but casual, moderate walking pace. Some form of policeman, secret agent....however not revealed. The scene includes certain elements of monochrome, to allow a sense of mystery to the opening sequence. Character has a cigarette in his mouth to portray his rough image/swagger-like attitude to the audience, but still portrays elements of formality and intelligence.
Subgenre:
Suspense/Action Thriller. Use of close ups at certain moments to emphasise the importance of his character, as well as certain aspects of the narrative. A POV shot is another example of a convention used in this particular genre, this allows the audience to see in either the main character or another characters perspective. Another common convention used in our genre is the use of bullet time, this adds to the emphasis on certain narrative points and also to highlight a key moment in the narrative. a common convention used in this genre is long duration shots. this builds suspense in the atmosphere and also creates tension, this could be used to create an anticlimax. A common feature included in the subgenre is the use of dramatic and intensifying, non-diegetic, soundtrack. We have included this in our opening sequence and will run throughout to create dramatic atmosphere and add to the tension.
Characters:
Secret Agent
* Dressed smartly, in a full on suit.
* Hair is neat, showing him as well presented.
* Walking casually, but giving off a cool image.
* Has a very stern look about him.
Suggested Locations:
*Town.
*Alley ways/city blocks.
One character, wearing formal clothes, preferably a smart suit, shoes and hat (james bond type). A lot of short, quick, some jilted shots that reveal very limited knowledge about the character (enigma's). Walking with some sense of intensity but casual, moderate walking pace. Some form of policeman, secret agent....however not revealed. The scene includes certain elements of monochrome, to allow a sense of mystery to the opening sequence. Character has a cigarette in his mouth to portray his rough image/swagger-like attitude to the audience, but still portrays elements of formality and intelligence.
Subgenre:
Suspense/Action Thriller. Use of close ups at certain moments to emphasise the importance of his character, as well as certain aspects of the narrative. A POV shot is another example of a convention used in this particular genre, this allows the audience to see in either the main character or another characters perspective. Another common convention used in our genre is the use of bullet time, this adds to the emphasis on certain narrative points and also to highlight a key moment in the narrative. a common convention used in this genre is long duration shots. this builds suspense in the atmosphere and also creates tension, this could be used to create an anticlimax. A common feature included in the subgenre is the use of dramatic and intensifying, non-diegetic, soundtrack. We have included this in our opening sequence and will run throughout to create dramatic atmosphere and add to the tension.
Characters:
Secret Agent
* Dressed smartly, in a full on suit.
* Hair is neat, showing him as well presented.
* Walking casually, but giving off a cool image.
* Has a very stern look about him.
Suggested Locations:
*Town.
*Alley ways/city blocks.
Monday 17 January 2011
Analysis of Previous Students Work
Video:
Level 4
*Holding a shot steady, where appropriate.
*Framing a shot, including and excluding elements as appropriate.
*Using a variety of shot distances as appropriate.
*Shooting material appropriate to the task set.
*Selecting mise-en-scene including colour, figure, lighting, objects and setting.
*Editing so that meaning is apparent to the viewer.
*Using varied shot transitions and other effects selectively and appropriately for the task set.
*Using sound with images and editing appropriately for the task set.
*Using titles appropriately.
The group's opening sequence follows the codes and conventions of a typical thriller opening sequence, feeding unanswered questions and suspense building moments as the victim sits helplessly awaiting his fate. It immediately creates an curious and eary atmosphere and is successful in leaving the audience wanting more. The camera shots are used extremely well, establishing the characters included and done steadily and clear, particularly when presenting the P.O.V shots which make the scene very realistic. The editing was done very successfully through the groups piece. The pace varies fantastically to present the passing of time in a way that relates to the characters. Cuts were used efficiently and did not stand out uncomfortably, making the piece flow and look more professional. The duration of shots was fairly long, to build suspense and add intensity to the scene. Lighting varied between colour, and black and white, to convert to different periods of time where an important moment happens.
This group have put a lot of effort into perfecting the video, through their pre=production research and preparation. To ensure the video is done efficiently they have contained a short script, allowing them to be clear of the situation and what they are filming. They have considered the feedback from other peers, and as well as accepting certain points for improvement, they have argued the feedback given and made good points as to why their piece should not be altered.
Level 4
*Holding a shot steady, where appropriate.
*Framing a shot, including and excluding elements as appropriate.
*Using a variety of shot distances as appropriate.
*Shooting material appropriate to the task set.
*Selecting mise-en-scene including colour, figure, lighting, objects and setting.
*Editing so that meaning is apparent to the viewer.
*Using varied shot transitions and other effects selectively and appropriately for the task set.
*Using sound with images and editing appropriately for the task set.
*Using titles appropriately.
The group's opening sequence follows the codes and conventions of a typical thriller opening sequence, feeding unanswered questions and suspense building moments as the victim sits helplessly awaiting his fate. It immediately creates an curious and eary atmosphere and is successful in leaving the audience wanting more. The camera shots are used extremely well, establishing the characters included and done steadily and clear, particularly when presenting the P.O.V shots which make the scene very realistic. The editing was done very successfully through the groups piece. The pace varies fantastically to present the passing of time in a way that relates to the characters. Cuts were used efficiently and did not stand out uncomfortably, making the piece flow and look more professional. The duration of shots was fairly long, to build suspense and add intensity to the scene. Lighting varied between colour, and black and white, to convert to different periods of time where an important moment happens.
This group have put a lot of effort into perfecting the video, through their pre=production research and preparation. To ensure the video is done efficiently they have contained a short script, allowing them to be clear of the situation and what they are filming. They have considered the feedback from other peers, and as well as accepting certain points for improvement, they have argued the feedback given and made good points as to why their piece should not be altered.
Political thriller analysis
A political thriller which usually involves various plots which are usually illegal and are designed to give some sort of political power to a character; however the characters opponents are continuously trying to stop him from getting the political power. They evolve around a national or international scenario; possibly world war 2 or US president elections. A hero or heroin is usually the character that prevents or stops the power hungry character from being able to reach the area of power.
The characters are usually seen to be wearing suits and reasonably smart clothes; some characters are seemed to be more corrupted than others and they are usually the characters who want to be the ones in control.The best political thrillers seamlessly weave together political insight and compelling suspense, and offer the unsettling thrill of having our flimsy notions and beliefs debunked. As the hero/investigator peels back the layers of falsehood, we experience the one-eye-open joy of seeing veils drop. We get more than just the solution of a mystery and a new interpretation of history and current events - we get the dark gift of prophecy.
The characters are usually seen to be wearing suits and reasonably smart clothes; some characters are seemed to be more corrupted than others and they are usually the characters who want to be the ones in control.The best political thrillers seamlessly weave together political insight and compelling suspense, and offer the unsettling thrill of having our flimsy notions and beliefs debunked. As the hero/investigator peels back the layers of falsehood, we experience the one-eye-open joy of seeing veils drop. We get more than just the solution of a mystery and a new interpretation of history and current events - we get the dark gift of prophecy.
Research Of Two Sub-Genres Crime And Action Thrillers
sub-genre - Crime Thriller
Crime thrillers are seemed to be darker than a crime film due to the fact that it has to involve codes and conventions of a thriller as well as a crime. This particular genre is a hybrid type of both crime films and thrillers that offers a suspenseful account of a successful or failed crime or crimes. These films often focus on the criminal rather than a policeman. Crime thrillers usually emphasize action over psychological aspects. Central topics of these films include serial killers/murders, robberies, chases, shootouts, heists and double-crosses.For example se7en and The departed.
Sub-Genre - Action Thriller
Action thrillers usually feature guns; explosions and set pieces. They usually feature a race against the clock, lots of violence and a clear evil antagonist.
These films may include some elements of crime and or mystery films; they are not as in focus as the action.
An example of a action thriller is Die hard or the Bourne ultimatum.
Crime thrillers are seemed to be darker than a crime film due to the fact that it has to involve codes and conventions of a thriller as well as a crime. This particular genre is a hybrid type of both crime films and thrillers that offers a suspenseful account of a successful or failed crime or crimes. These films often focus on the criminal rather than a policeman. Crime thrillers usually emphasize action over psychological aspects. Central topics of these films include serial killers/murders, robberies, chases, shootouts, heists and double-crosses.For example se7en and The departed.
Sub-Genre - Action Thriller
Action thrillers usually feature guns; explosions and set pieces. They usually feature a race against the clock, lots of violence and a clear evil antagonist.
These films may include some elements of crime and or mystery films; they are not as in focus as the action.
An example of a action thriller is Die hard or the Bourne ultimatum.
Thursday 13 January 2011
Friday 7 January 2011
Thursday 6 January 2011
Preliminary Evaluation
What did we learn from the preliminary?
From the preliminary task we learnt that it is difficult and complicated to synchronize the sound with the correct video area; and make sure that the timing is accurate so it does not look like a person is screaming but there is no sound.
We also found that it was difficult to correctly cut and move the areas so that it ran smoothly and that it had the correct continuity areas.
Where there any difficulties?
we did face some difficulties when filming the preliminary task for example; using the space provided efficiently, also using the props correctly, such as the door handle. another difficulty we faced was filming the sequence in the time limit we had therefore rushing and having a continuity error which was clothing.
Discuss how you constructed your preliminary - Micro elements?
sound: we used a soundtrack underneath the video to create suspense as it was a thriller preliminary task. we also used dialog between the two characters. we used some sound effects for example; a bang noise.
camera: during dialog we used over the shoulder shot between characters speech. this is because the audience can see who is speaking. we also used an establishing shot to identify to the audience where it is set. we also used an extreme close up in order to show just the characters eyes so you could see the emotion and capture the point that the characters face changed and reacted to the exact point in which the situation changed. When filming the corridor we used a long shot so that you could clearly see the full length of the hall which made it seem more mysterious as no-one was around and create tension in the atmosphere.
lighting: we decided to use naturalistic lighting to create realism and make it more believable.
Editing: we used final cut to edit the video and audio, we had to edit the audio separately in order for it to be syncronised with the video because we captured the audio seperately.
From the preliminary task we learnt that it is difficult and complicated to synchronize the sound with the correct video area; and make sure that the timing is accurate so it does not look like a person is screaming but there is no sound.
We also found that it was difficult to correctly cut and move the areas so that it ran smoothly and that it had the correct continuity areas.
Where there any difficulties?
we did face some difficulties when filming the preliminary task for example; using the space provided efficiently, also using the props correctly, such as the door handle. another difficulty we faced was filming the sequence in the time limit we had therefore rushing and having a continuity error which was clothing.
Discuss how you constructed your preliminary - Micro elements?
sound: we used a soundtrack underneath the video to create suspense as it was a thriller preliminary task. we also used dialog between the two characters. we used some sound effects for example; a bang noise.
camera: during dialog we used over the shoulder shot between characters speech. this is because the audience can see who is speaking. we also used an establishing shot to identify to the audience where it is set. we also used an extreme close up in order to show just the characters eyes so you could see the emotion and capture the point that the characters face changed and reacted to the exact point in which the situation changed. When filming the corridor we used a long shot so that you could clearly see the full length of the hall which made it seem more mysterious as no-one was around and create tension in the atmosphere.
lighting: we decided to use naturalistic lighting to create realism and make it more believable.
Editing: we used final cut to edit the video and audio, we had to edit the audio separately in order for it to be syncronised with the video because we captured the audio seperately.
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