Thursday, 30 April 2009
Friday, 24 April 2009
AS Media Evaluation - Thriller
In what ways does my media product use, develop or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?
The music we used was influenced by the film 'hide and seek' in this trailer there is slow music to start which enters a climax as the editing quickens. We wanted to create this effect also, so we choose a song which started slow with piano instrumentals and as the chorus came in the pace changed which we were able to use to our advantage. In many thrillers the music is a key component so we made sure we choose the right song to create tension and apprehension. This is a convention of a thriller which we were able to use as we choose the song 'save the hero' by Beyonce.
Sound effects can be frequently seen in thriller to add to the dramatic scenes. In our opening we used this convention to make our dramatic scene even more provoking for the audience. The shadow scene of the mother and father fighting I would say is the scene our film would be most famous for, because in many thrillers the scene which is most thought provoking often gets remembered. We decided to use sound effect of the father grunting as he was hitting the mother to add to the brutality of the attack. When the scene was used with slow motion effect we found the sound effect made was very effective.
Another element which almost always is found in thrillers is the use of quick edits, we were able to develop this idea by starting with slow and smooth edits and gradually building to quick edits which would more commonly be found. This is used to make the opening exciting for the audience to watch and engage them with the action. Our use of editing was very successful because of the influence of the fast pace other thriller films used. These films with fast editing are what we enjoyed to watch so we thought incorporating this into our thriller by building tension was ideal.
In many thrillers such as, 'psycho' and 'no country for old men' some of the violent scenes are created in a way so that the audience does not get shown the explicit violence but instead gets hints of what is going on. By using this form it makes the audience think about what really is going on, rather then presenting them with every bit of the action. In 'psycho' this happens in the shower scene where we do not actually see the knife enter, and in 'no country for old men' when for some of the murders we simple see blood and the audience will know what has happened. In our opening we decided to use this but adapt it to make it different to what has been seen before. We choose to have the most violent scene in just shadows so the characters were not presented to the audience yet, instead they are able to imagine what they would look like.
Interesting camera angles, movements and shots are key in making a thriller exciting and to create tension. We used low angle shows when the girl was swinging to show her innocence on her face. When we were shooting we decided that we would get a variety of shots so that when we came to edit the film we would have enough to make quick edits between the two scenes.
Mystery can be seen in many thrillers, sometimes adapted through the characters or plot. With our opening we wanted to in some ways challenge the convention and create mystery not just thought the character or plot but through a mixture of the two. The mystery would be presented to the audience from the shadow scene as the audience will not know much about the plot because it is just the opening and still will not know much about the characters. We felt that by doing this it would be very successfully, and found the finished product reflected this.
How does my media product represent particular social groups?
With our media product we decided that the group we would show is social class, the characters would come from a low social class. This would be shown through the mise-en-scene, where the room is basic and dirty. The father is a violent male and this is clear for the audience to see through his actions towards his wife.
What kind of media institution might distribute my media product and why?
The kind of media institution that would distribute our film would probably be a similar kind to those that have distributed other's alike, like the film that influenced ours. I researched 'hide and seek' to find out what kind of company distributed the film.
Hide and seek was distributed by 20th Century Fox, so this could be an option for us to follow a film that has influenced us into making ours. Working Title is also a possibility for the distribution because this company produces quite mainstream films, and is a British film company. It's united with Universal Studio's so has Major funding from the US, making the films more mainstream.
If our film was to be shown on TV I think that it would be best to show it on Film 4 or Channel 4 after 9 o'clock because of the certification of a 15.
Our film would also been shown in cinemas in the afternoons or more than likely the evening because of our certification of 15. 'Hide and seek' was shown in multiplex cinema's and as a group we agreed that this would be better because our film would be mainstream.
Who would be the audience for your media product?
When researching into the audience demographic into 'hide and seek' we found that the most common audience was between 15 and 25, equally both male and females. Our film has both male and female characters and because the main character is a child i think that we would get get equally males and females watching our media product. I would think that the age group which would watch our film would be similar to that of 'hide and seek', between 15 and 25. The audience that we would attract would more probably watch thrillers such as 'hide and seek' or 'phone booth'.
How did I attract/ address my audience?
We are aiming to attract students, mainly between the age of 15 - 25, both male and females.
The audience would be attracted to our film for many reasons because they could show sympathy for the little girl who was suffering in her situation. The mise-en-scene was created through a park which everyone would have seen and been to. This means the audience can relate to the location. The audience would be hooked on the film from the dramatic opening, so they would take an interest in the film. We had a lot of successful feedback from the age group we want to attract which showed us that they enjoyed the product.
What have i learnt about technologies from the process of constructing my product?
We started to prepare by creating the opening to an action film. We did this short activity before our preliminary exercise so we had more time to get used to the camera's. When doing this we got used to editing and using the apple computer software. This turned out to be a very successful film and gave us more confidence when starting our main activities. From our preliminary task we have learnt and developed many aspects of the group. During planning we had already experienced story boards, so that when it came to the most important task, the thriller opening, we were able to plan sufficiently as a group and make sure we had all the information needed when we started shooting. We developed out understanding on how to shoot footage, and how we had to film more than one good shot to get the best shot we could.
In the process we also learnt about which camera angles would look best and how we could get the best effects.
We also learnt about editing and how to work the program. We also learnt how to add special effects, slow motion and titles. Throughout the making of the film we learnt a lot about how to edit and cut between clips. We learnt about how important music can be in the process and getting the timing correct.
The process also taught us about using 'youtube' to upload our finished product and research other films. Now from this process we know how to upload onto a blog, embed videos and how easy it can be once you know how to do it.
Looking back at my preliminary task, what do i feel i have learnt in the progression from it to the full product?
The preliminary task taught us how important the initial storyboard and planning stage was in ensuring we had a clear idea about what to film. We then were able to make a storyboard for the thriller and knew what we had to include. We also decided that we needed extra information like camera angles and shot types and movements that would be shot. We found this very useful to get a clear idea of what to film. We learnt we needed to plan every aspect of the film, such as location, characters and props.
The filming process was quite difficult at first when we did our preliminary task, but when we got to the full product we has got used to the equipment and developed out understanding of how to get the best out of the camera. From the first task we got to experience 180 degree rule and shot reverse/match on action.
The editing process was defiantly easier the second time because we had already experienced it, and we had got used to cutting, rearranging, adding titles and effects. This made it quicker that it would have been if it was the first time editing to do out full product.
After the product was complete we had to use youtube to upload, but we did not need to set up an account as we already had one.
We learnt how to both share out the tasks, so we could get everything done, but also and more importantly work as a team so that we could all be included and work together to finish the product.
In conclusion we learnt a lot through the preliminary task and I felt it was vital in making sure that we could make the full product effectively without having too many problems. Apart from this the preliminary exercise gave us confidence that we knew what we had to do and knew how to do it.
The music we used was influenced by the film 'hide and seek' in this trailer there is slow music to start which enters a climax as the editing quickens. We wanted to create this effect also, so we choose a song which started slow with piano instrumentals and as the chorus came in the pace changed which we were able to use to our advantage. In many thrillers the music is a key component so we made sure we choose the right song to create tension and apprehension. This is a convention of a thriller which we were able to use as we choose the song 'save the hero' by Beyonce.
Sound effects can be frequently seen in thriller to add to the dramatic scenes. In our opening we used this convention to make our dramatic scene even more provoking for the audience. The shadow scene of the mother and father fighting I would say is the scene our film would be most famous for, because in many thrillers the scene which is most thought provoking often gets remembered. We decided to use sound effect of the father grunting as he was hitting the mother to add to the brutality of the attack. When the scene was used with slow motion effect we found the sound effect made was very effective.
Another element which almost always is found in thrillers is the use of quick edits, we were able to develop this idea by starting with slow and smooth edits and gradually building to quick edits which would more commonly be found. This is used to make the opening exciting for the audience to watch and engage them with the action. Our use of editing was very successful because of the influence of the fast pace other thriller films used. These films with fast editing are what we enjoyed to watch so we thought incorporating this into our thriller by building tension was ideal.
In many thrillers such as, 'psycho' and 'no country for old men' some of the violent scenes are created in a way so that the audience does not get shown the explicit violence but instead gets hints of what is going on. By using this form it makes the audience think about what really is going on, rather then presenting them with every bit of the action. In 'psycho' this happens in the shower scene where we do not actually see the knife enter, and in 'no country for old men' when for some of the murders we simple see blood and the audience will know what has happened. In our opening we decided to use this but adapt it to make it different to what has been seen before. We choose to have the most violent scene in just shadows so the characters were not presented to the audience yet, instead they are able to imagine what they would look like.
Interesting camera angles, movements and shots are key in making a thriller exciting and to create tension. We used low angle shows when the girl was swinging to show her innocence on her face. When we were shooting we decided that we would get a variety of shots so that when we came to edit the film we would have enough to make quick edits between the two scenes.
Mystery can be seen in many thrillers, sometimes adapted through the characters or plot. With our opening we wanted to in some ways challenge the convention and create mystery not just thought the character or plot but through a mixture of the two. The mystery would be presented to the audience from the shadow scene as the audience will not know much about the plot because it is just the opening and still will not know much about the characters. We felt that by doing this it would be very successfully, and found the finished product reflected this.
How does my media product represent particular social groups?
With our media product we decided that the group we would show is social class, the characters would come from a low social class. This would be shown through the mise-en-scene, where the room is basic and dirty. The father is a violent male and this is clear for the audience to see through his actions towards his wife.
What kind of media institution might distribute my media product and why?
The kind of media institution that would distribute our film would probably be a similar kind to those that have distributed other's alike, like the film that influenced ours. I researched 'hide and seek' to find out what kind of company distributed the film.
Hide and seek was distributed by 20th Century Fox, so this could be an option for us to follow a film that has influenced us into making ours. Working Title is also a possibility for the distribution because this company produces quite mainstream films, and is a British film company. It's united with Universal Studio's so has Major funding from the US, making the films more mainstream.
If our film was to be shown on TV I think that it would be best to show it on Film 4 or Channel 4 after 9 o'clock because of the certification of a 15.
Our film would also been shown in cinemas in the afternoons or more than likely the evening because of our certification of 15. 'Hide and seek' was shown in multiplex cinema's and as a group we agreed that this would be better because our film would be mainstream.
Who would be the audience for your media product?
When researching into the audience demographic into 'hide and seek' we found that the most common audience was between 15 and 25, equally both male and females. Our film has both male and female characters and because the main character is a child i think that we would get get equally males and females watching our media product. I would think that the age group which would watch our film would be similar to that of 'hide and seek', between 15 and 25. The audience that we would attract would more probably watch thrillers such as 'hide and seek' or 'phone booth'.
How did I attract/ address my audience?
We are aiming to attract students, mainly between the age of 15 - 25, both male and females.
The audience would be attracted to our film for many reasons because they could show sympathy for the little girl who was suffering in her situation. The mise-en-scene was created through a park which everyone would have seen and been to. This means the audience can relate to the location. The audience would be hooked on the film from the dramatic opening, so they would take an interest in the film. We had a lot of successful feedback from the age group we want to attract which showed us that they enjoyed the product.
What have i learnt about technologies from the process of constructing my product?
We started to prepare by creating the opening to an action film. We did this short activity before our preliminary exercise so we had more time to get used to the camera's. When doing this we got used to editing and using the apple computer software. This turned out to be a very successful film and gave us more confidence when starting our main activities. From our preliminary task we have learnt and developed many aspects of the group. During planning we had already experienced story boards, so that when it came to the most important task, the thriller opening, we were able to plan sufficiently as a group and make sure we had all the information needed when we started shooting. We developed out understanding on how to shoot footage, and how we had to film more than one good shot to get the best shot we could.
In the process we also learnt about which camera angles would look best and how we could get the best effects.
We also learnt about editing and how to work the program. We also learnt how to add special effects, slow motion and titles. Throughout the making of the film we learnt a lot about how to edit and cut between clips. We learnt about how important music can be in the process and getting the timing correct.
The process also taught us about using 'youtube' to upload our finished product and research other films. Now from this process we know how to upload onto a blog, embed videos and how easy it can be once you know how to do it.
Looking back at my preliminary task, what do i feel i have learnt in the progression from it to the full product?
The preliminary task taught us how important the initial storyboard and planning stage was in ensuring we had a clear idea about what to film. We then were able to make a storyboard for the thriller and knew what we had to include. We also decided that we needed extra information like camera angles and shot types and movements that would be shot. We found this very useful to get a clear idea of what to film. We learnt we needed to plan every aspect of the film, such as location, characters and props.
The filming process was quite difficult at first when we did our preliminary task, but when we got to the full product we has got used to the equipment and developed out understanding of how to get the best out of the camera. From the first task we got to experience 180 degree rule and shot reverse/match on action.
The editing process was defiantly easier the second time because we had already experienced it, and we had got used to cutting, rearranging, adding titles and effects. This made it quicker that it would have been if it was the first time editing to do out full product.
After the product was complete we had to use youtube to upload, but we did not need to set up an account as we already had one.
We learnt how to both share out the tasks, so we could get everything done, but also and more importantly work as a team so that we could all be included and work together to finish the product.
In conclusion we learnt a lot through the preliminary task and I felt it was vital in making sure that we could make the full product effectively without having too many problems. Apart from this the preliminary exercise gave us confidence that we knew what we had to do and knew how to do it.
No Country for Old Men - Analysis
No Country for Old Men is a 2007 crime thriller adapted for the screen and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, and starring Tommy Lee Jones, Javier Bardem, and Josh Brolin. Adapted from the Cormac McCarthy No Country for Old Men, it tells the story of a botched drug deal and the ensuing cat-and-mouse drama, as three men crisscross each other's paths in the desert landscape of 1980 West Texas. The film examines the themes of fate and circumstance which the characters face.
This film is famous for the representation of the main character who is the killer who seems to be not affected by his violent actions and devastation he causes. This is sickening and the audience get to see the murders he comits and follow him though he trail to find what he is looking for. The whole of the killing is not shown explicitly to the audience, the audience will know what is goin on but some things are not shown so that the audience are made to think about what is goin on. An example of this is when he goes into a hotel room where he shoots everyone in there, we do not see all of these killings. In one case there is a man in the shower and he closes the shower curtain before firing to kill the man. Here the audience does not see everything but this is not needed as we know how brutal the main character can be.
The scene above shows the superior character of the killer, and even though he is going to kill many people and has just, he is calm and undisturbed by any of his actions. The audience here know what the character is capable of as we get to know him but the man behind the counter has no clue, which creates tension and makes the audience feel uneasy about the situation.
The conversation between the two characters appears to be normal but for the audience watching who know he has just killed people it is very uneasy to watch. With simple questions like 'what time do you close' the killer seems to have the upper hand on every situation as he then goes on to tell him 'you dont know what your talking about'.
The camera shots used here are just two shots, over the shoulder shots, and reverse angle. The simplicity of the shots does not matter here because the audience are drawn into the narrative and are wondering what will happen next.
This film is famous for the representation of the main character who is the killer who seems to be not affected by his violent actions and devastation he causes. This is sickening and the audience get to see the murders he comits and follow him though he trail to find what he is looking for. The whole of the killing is not shown explicitly to the audience, the audience will know what is goin on but some things are not shown so that the audience are made to think about what is goin on. An example of this is when he goes into a hotel room where he shoots everyone in there, we do not see all of these killings. In one case there is a man in the shower and he closes the shower curtain before firing to kill the man. Here the audience does not see everything but this is not needed as we know how brutal the main character can be.
The scene above shows the superior character of the killer, and even though he is going to kill many people and has just, he is calm and undisturbed by any of his actions. The audience here know what the character is capable of as we get to know him but the man behind the counter has no clue, which creates tension and makes the audience feel uneasy about the situation.
The conversation between the two characters appears to be normal but for the audience watching who know he has just killed people it is very uneasy to watch. With simple questions like 'what time do you close' the killer seems to have the upper hand on every situation as he then goes on to tell him 'you dont know what your talking about'.
The camera shots used here are just two shots, over the shoulder shots, and reverse angle. The simplicity of the shots does not matter here because the audience are drawn into the narrative and are wondering what will happen next.
Psycho - Analysis
Alfred Hitchcock's powerful, complex psychological thriller, Psycho (1960) is the "mother" of all modern horror suspense films. The nightmarish, disturbing film's themes of corruptibility, confused identities, voyeurism, human vulnerabilities and victimization and the deadly effects of money. The master of suspense skillfully manipulates and guides the audience into identifying with the main character, luckless victim Marion (a Phoenix real-estate secretary), and then with that character's murderer a crazy and timid taxidermist named Norman.
Like many thriller, there is always one scene which is seen to be the most important, usually this is the scene which contains the sequence which will make the audience think the most and often the muder or fight scene. In Psycho this is the 'shower scene' (seen above) this has become one of the most famous scenes of the film because of the violence and amount of shots used to create a brilliant sequence. This scene shows the murder of the main character, Marian Crane. Althought you do not actually see the knife penetrate her skin or seen any of the stabbing, this scene is cleverly created to give the impression of a gorey and brutal murder. Usually in many thrillers the main character is presented until the end, this film is different however as the main character here gets killed of quite early. The audience will not see this coming and this shock is what Hitchcock was daring enough to do even if it was something completely different to what was usual for thrillers. This confused the audience, just enough to have them wondering what would come next.
During this scene the majority of the shots are close ups, these shots typically used in thillers and used here to show the audience the expressions of the dieing woman. The shots were presented in a way, that just before the knife prenetrated the womans skin the camera would cut away to either her face or another element. This was thought provoking for the audience because they were lead to think about what was happening to the woman as a close up of her face was shown to represent her pain.
Music is also a key componment in this film as the strong sounds are used to create tension and drama. Diegetic sound of the woman screaming and crys for him to stop just adds to the brutality and leaves the audience shocked. After the killing, the audience is just left with the sound of the running shower as she slumps to the floor, showing she is now dead.
Like many thriller, there is always one scene which is seen to be the most important, usually this is the scene which contains the sequence which will make the audience think the most and often the muder or fight scene. In Psycho this is the 'shower scene' (seen above) this has become one of the most famous scenes of the film because of the violence and amount of shots used to create a brilliant sequence. This scene shows the murder of the main character, Marian Crane. Althought you do not actually see the knife penetrate her skin or seen any of the stabbing, this scene is cleverly created to give the impression of a gorey and brutal murder. Usually in many thrillers the main character is presented until the end, this film is different however as the main character here gets killed of quite early. The audience will not see this coming and this shock is what Hitchcock was daring enough to do even if it was something completely different to what was usual for thrillers. This confused the audience, just enough to have them wondering what would come next.
During this scene the majority of the shots are close ups, these shots typically used in thillers and used here to show the audience the expressions of the dieing woman. The shots were presented in a way, that just before the knife prenetrated the womans skin the camera would cut away to either her face or another element. This was thought provoking for the audience because they were lead to think about what was happening to the woman as a close up of her face was shown to represent her pain.
Music is also a key componment in this film as the strong sounds are used to create tension and drama. Diegetic sound of the woman screaming and crys for him to stop just adds to the brutality and leaves the audience shocked. After the killing, the audience is just left with the sound of the running shower as she slumps to the floor, showing she is now dead.
Hide and Seek (trailer) - Analysis
To help us with creating our opening we decided to look at the film hide and seek as we believe this opening is similar to ours in some ways so we wanted to see what make this one so successful .
Sound - this trailer starts off with slow piano music as we are introduced to the small girl. As the dialogue emerges the piano music gets quieter. As the pace of the trailer speeds up the music introduces some strong sting elements which adds to the suspense. Also there are some effects added in such as sound when the titles come on, and laughing in the background. There is also some diegetic sound to add drama to some aspects, such as the wardrobe opening. In this trailer the action is built up thought the music and draws to a close at the end with the little girl saying 'come out, come out, where ever you are' this is a twisted version of the innocent game children play.
Editing - in this trailer the editing is used effectively to create pace and tensions. Firstly the edits are slow, with the use of gradual fade in and out. All the time the audience is preparing for a climax. The Audience are teased as the edits quicken at one point in the shower scene, yet slow right down when the girl is in the bed. The audience is expecting a rush of action but is not sure when this will happen. The titles are introduced and this is when the fast pace of editing is introduced, with sudden flashes.
Camera Shots/Movement - A typical convention of a thriller is to have lot's of different camera angles, movements and shot. In this trailer there is no exception. It starts of with close up shots, changing to a point of view shot of the girl looking into the sky. This then switches to a high angle shot looking down on the girl on the round-a-bout. Through the conversations there is two shots, reverse angle, and eye line matches. As the pace quickens there is a mixture of long shots, medium shots, close ups and two shots. There are some fast tracking shots to the door of the action which is effective to build tension in a short space of time. The final shot is a low angle shot from the basement up to the door at which the little girl is standing and i think this is effective as it positions the audience in the basement where 'Charlie' is meant to be hiding.
Lighting - to start with this piece starts outside in a park where it is bright, this is when the girl is alone and symbolises her innocent and purity. As the trailer continues it is clear to see how the lighting changes, as the evil is presented low key lighting is used to create a dark effect nearly all of the time. The is darkness especially when more of the horror is shown such as the shower scene, and the cave scene. Also candles are used when the writing in blood is being shown on the bathroom wall to create tension. The final shot in particular shows how lighting is used as the basement is dark and the frame is only lit by the light shining through the door the little girl is looking though, maybe to show she holds all the answers.
Character - the little girl is the main character here and i feel at the beginning she represents innocence as she is on the park, as the story continues though there is a twist as in fact, this pale skinned girl, shows signs of evil and being twisted.
We wanted to use some of these elements when creating our piece, for example the park scene showing the girls innocence. Also we wanted to use the idea of switching between light and dark to symbolise good and evil in our opening. The main character in our piece would also be a little girl so wanted to create something similar to who is in this film. All of these ideas help us to make our opening successful and make it work aswell as this trailer does.
Sound - this trailer starts off with slow piano music as we are introduced to the small girl. As the dialogue emerges the piano music gets quieter. As the pace of the trailer speeds up the music introduces some strong sting elements which adds to the suspense. Also there are some effects added in such as sound when the titles come on, and laughing in the background. There is also some diegetic sound to add drama to some aspects, such as the wardrobe opening. In this trailer the action is built up thought the music and draws to a close at the end with the little girl saying 'come out, come out, where ever you are' this is a twisted version of the innocent game children play.
Editing - in this trailer the editing is used effectively to create pace and tensions. Firstly the edits are slow, with the use of gradual fade in and out. All the time the audience is preparing for a climax. The Audience are teased as the edits quicken at one point in the shower scene, yet slow right down when the girl is in the bed. The audience is expecting a rush of action but is not sure when this will happen. The titles are introduced and this is when the fast pace of editing is introduced, with sudden flashes.
Camera Shots/Movement - A typical convention of a thriller is to have lot's of different camera angles, movements and shot. In this trailer there is no exception. It starts of with close up shots, changing to a point of view shot of the girl looking into the sky. This then switches to a high angle shot looking down on the girl on the round-a-bout. Through the conversations there is two shots, reverse angle, and eye line matches. As the pace quickens there is a mixture of long shots, medium shots, close ups and two shots. There are some fast tracking shots to the door of the action which is effective to build tension in a short space of time. The final shot is a low angle shot from the basement up to the door at which the little girl is standing and i think this is effective as it positions the audience in the basement where 'Charlie' is meant to be hiding.
Lighting - to start with this piece starts outside in a park where it is bright, this is when the girl is alone and symbolises her innocent and purity. As the trailer continues it is clear to see how the lighting changes, as the evil is presented low key lighting is used to create a dark effect nearly all of the time. The is darkness especially when more of the horror is shown such as the shower scene, and the cave scene. Also candles are used when the writing in blood is being shown on the bathroom wall to create tension. The final shot in particular shows how lighting is used as the basement is dark and the frame is only lit by the light shining through the door the little girl is looking though, maybe to show she holds all the answers.
Character - the little girl is the main character here and i feel at the beginning she represents innocence as she is on the park, as the story continues though there is a twist as in fact, this pale skinned girl, shows signs of evil and being twisted.
We wanted to use some of these elements when creating our piece, for example the park scene showing the girls innocence. Also we wanted to use the idea of switching between light and dark to symbolise good and evil in our opening. The main character in our piece would also be a little girl so wanted to create something similar to who is in this film. All of these ideas help us to make our opening successful and make it work aswell as this trailer does.
Feedback
We decided that we would take our opening into school and have a group of students evaluate it to see what they thought was good, but more importantly what they thought we needed to improve. We also decided to ask our media teacher for his advice in finishing the product finally.
Positives
Positives
- Good timing to the music
- Shadow scene very effective
- Tilt shot
- Good pace to the edits
- Smooth transitions
- Good location
- Variety of shots
- Good character choice
- Exciting
- Flashbacks used effectively
Negatives
- Title pages on too long
- Different font on title page
- First shot could be smoother
Overall i am very pleased with the feedback we recieved as there a lot of positives and the negatives given are minor details which can be changed to make the opening better. I think that this was an effective way to engage with the audience and to attract our target audience as the students asked were between 15 - 18 which was perfect. I felt that our strongest aspect of the film is our camera work and edits which make the scene exciting and creates tensions for the audience when they are watching. From this feedback we went away and got together to amend the rough edit, into completing a final edit, taking into account all the feedback we had got from the students and teacher.
Thriller Genre
The thriller genre can include the following sub-genres, which may include elements of other genres:
Action thriller: In which the work often features a race against the clock, contains lots of violence, and an obvious antagonist. These films usually contain large amounts of guns, explosions, and large elaborate set pieces for the action to take place. These films often have elements of mystery films and crime films but these elements take a backseat to action. Notable examples are the James Bond films, The Transporter, and the Jason Bourne novels and films.
Conspiracy thriller: In which the hero/heroine confronts a large, powerful group of enemies whose true extent only he/she recognizes. The Chancellor Manuscript and The Aquitane Progression by Robert Ludlum fall into this category, as do films such as Three Days of the Condor, Capricorn One, and JFK.
Crime thriller: 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(s) rather than a policeman. Crime thrillers usually emphasize action over psychological aspects. Central topics of these films include murders, robberies, chases, shootouts, and double-crosses are central ingredients. Some examples include The Killing, Seven, The Godfather, Reservoir Dogs, Inside Man, and The Asphalt Jungle.
Disaster thriller: In which the main conflict is due to some sort of natural or artificial disaster, such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanoes, etc., or nuclear disasters as an artificial disaster. Examples include Stormy Weather by Carl Hiaasen, Tremor by Winston Graham, and the 1974 film Earthquake.
Drama thriller: In which the story consists of the elements of a thriller and drama film. These films are usually slower paced and involves a great deal of character development along with plot twists. Examples include The Illusionist, The Interpreter and The Prestige.
Eco-thriller: In which the protagonist must avert or rectify an environmental or biological calamity_often in addition to dealing with the usual types of enemies or obstacles present in other thriller genres. This environmental component often forms a central message or theme of the story. Examples include Nicholas Evans's The Loop, C. George Muller's Echoes in the Blue, and Wilbur Smith's Elephant Song, all of which highlight real-life environmental issues. Futuristic eco-thrillers are of the science fiction genre that propose ideas that will or may occur and include such works as Kim Stanley Robinson's Mars Trilogy and Ian Irvine's Human Rites Trilogy and Dasavathaaram.
Erotic thriller: In which it consists of erotica and thriller. It has become popular since the 1980s and the rise of VCR market penetration. The genre includes such films as Basic Instinct, Dressed to Kill, Color of Night, Eyes Wide Shut, Fatal Attraction, Looking for Mr. Goodbar, and In the Cut.
Horror thriller: In which conflict between the main characters are mental, emotional, and physical. Two recent examples of this include the Saw series of films and the Danny Boyle's 28 Days Later. What sets the horror thriller apart is the main element of fear throughout the story. The main character(s) is not only up against a superior force, but they are or will soon become the victims themselves and directly feel the fear that comes by attracting the monster's attention. Other well-known examples are Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho and Thomas Harris's The Silence of the Lambs.
Legal thriller: In which the lawyer-heroes/heroines confront enemies outside, as well as inside, the courtroom and are in danger of losing not only their cases but their lives. The Innocent Man by John Grisham is a well known example of the type.
Medical thriller: In which the hero/heroine are medical doctors/personnel working to solve an expanding medical problem. Robin Cook, Tess Gerritsen, Michael Crichton, and Gary Braver are well-known authors of this subgenre. Nonfiction medical thrillers are also a subcategory, comprising works like The Hot Zone by Richard Preston. Films such as Awake are other examples of medical thrillers.
Political thriller: In which the hero/heroine must ensure the stability of the government that employs him. The success of Seven Days in May (1962) by Fletcher Knebel, The Day of the Jackal (1971) by Frederick Forsyth, and The Manchurian Candidate (1959) by Richard Condon established this subgenre. A more recent example is the 1980 film Agency.
Psychological thriller: In which (until the often violent resolution) the conflict between the main characters is mental and emotional, rather than physical. The Alfred Hitchcock films Suspicion, Shadow of a Doubt, and Strangers on a Train and David Lynch's bizarre and influential Blue Velvet are notable examples of the type, as is The Sixth Sense by M. Night Shyamalan and The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith (who also wrote Strangers).
Spy thriller (also a subgenre of spy fiction): In which the hero is generally a government agent who must take violent action against agents of a rival government or (in recent years) terrorists. Examples include From Russia with Love by Ian Fleming, The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum, and television series such as Mission: Impossible and 24 (the latter demonstrating a break from the norm by Robert Ludlum, as it is as much a psychological thriller as a spy thriller).
Supernatural thriller: In which the conflict is between main characters, usually one of which has supernatural powers. Carrie by Stephen King, Unbreakable by M. Night Shyamalan, and Torchwood are notable examples of this genre. This type of thriller combines tension of the regular thriller with such basic horror oriented ingredients as ghosts, the occult, and psychic phenomenon; the supernatural thriller combines these with a frightening but often restrained film. They also generally eschew the more graphic elements of the horror film in favor of sustaining a mood of menace and unpredictability; supernatural thrillers often find the protagonists either battling a malevolent paranormal force or trapped in a situation seemingly influenced or controlled by an other-worldly entity beyond their comprehension.
Techno-thriller: A work that usually focuses upon military action, in which technology (usually military technology) is described in detail and made essential to the reader's/viewer's understanding of the plot. Tom Clancy defined and popularized the genre with his The Hunt for Red October, and is considered to be the "Father of the Technothriller".
Action thriller: In which the work often features a race against the clock, contains lots of violence, and an obvious antagonist. These films usually contain large amounts of guns, explosions, and large elaborate set pieces for the action to take place. These films often have elements of mystery films and crime films but these elements take a backseat to action. Notable examples are the James Bond films, The Transporter, and the Jason Bourne novels and films.
Conspiracy thriller: In which the hero/heroine confronts a large, powerful group of enemies whose true extent only he/she recognizes. The Chancellor Manuscript and The Aquitane Progression by Robert Ludlum fall into this category, as do films such as Three Days of the Condor, Capricorn One, and JFK.
Crime thriller: 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(s) rather than a policeman. Crime thrillers usually emphasize action over psychological aspects. Central topics of these films include murders, robberies, chases, shootouts, and double-crosses are central ingredients. Some examples include The Killing, Seven, The Godfather, Reservoir Dogs, Inside Man, and The Asphalt Jungle.
Disaster thriller: In which the main conflict is due to some sort of natural or artificial disaster, such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanoes, etc., or nuclear disasters as an artificial disaster. Examples include Stormy Weather by Carl Hiaasen, Tremor by Winston Graham, and the 1974 film Earthquake.
Drama thriller: In which the story consists of the elements of a thriller and drama film. These films are usually slower paced and involves a great deal of character development along with plot twists. Examples include The Illusionist, The Interpreter and The Prestige.
Eco-thriller: In which the protagonist must avert or rectify an environmental or biological calamity_often in addition to dealing with the usual types of enemies or obstacles present in other thriller genres. This environmental component often forms a central message or theme of the story. Examples include Nicholas Evans's The Loop, C. George Muller's Echoes in the Blue, and Wilbur Smith's Elephant Song, all of which highlight real-life environmental issues. Futuristic eco-thrillers are of the science fiction genre that propose ideas that will or may occur and include such works as Kim Stanley Robinson's Mars Trilogy and Ian Irvine's Human Rites Trilogy and Dasavathaaram.
Erotic thriller: In which it consists of erotica and thriller. It has become popular since the 1980s and the rise of VCR market penetration. The genre includes such films as Basic Instinct, Dressed to Kill, Color of Night, Eyes Wide Shut, Fatal Attraction, Looking for Mr. Goodbar, and In the Cut.
Horror thriller: In which conflict between the main characters are mental, emotional, and physical. Two recent examples of this include the Saw series of films and the Danny Boyle's 28 Days Later. What sets the horror thriller apart is the main element of fear throughout the story. The main character(s) is not only up against a superior force, but they are or will soon become the victims themselves and directly feel the fear that comes by attracting the monster's attention. Other well-known examples are Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho and Thomas Harris's The Silence of the Lambs.
Legal thriller: In which the lawyer-heroes/heroines confront enemies outside, as well as inside, the courtroom and are in danger of losing not only their cases but their lives. The Innocent Man by John Grisham is a well known example of the type.
Medical thriller: In which the hero/heroine are medical doctors/personnel working to solve an expanding medical problem. Robin Cook, Tess Gerritsen, Michael Crichton, and Gary Braver are well-known authors of this subgenre. Nonfiction medical thrillers are also a subcategory, comprising works like The Hot Zone by Richard Preston. Films such as Awake are other examples of medical thrillers.
Political thriller: In which the hero/heroine must ensure the stability of the government that employs him. The success of Seven Days in May (1962) by Fletcher Knebel, The Day of the Jackal (1971) by Frederick Forsyth, and The Manchurian Candidate (1959) by Richard Condon established this subgenre. A more recent example is the 1980 film Agency.
Psychological thriller: In which (until the often violent resolution) the conflict between the main characters is mental and emotional, rather than physical. The Alfred Hitchcock films Suspicion, Shadow of a Doubt, and Strangers on a Train and David Lynch's bizarre and influential Blue Velvet are notable examples of the type, as is The Sixth Sense by M. Night Shyamalan and The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith (who also wrote Strangers).
Spy thriller (also a subgenre of spy fiction): In which the hero is generally a government agent who must take violent action against agents of a rival government or (in recent years) terrorists. Examples include From Russia with Love by Ian Fleming, The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum, and television series such as Mission: Impossible and 24 (the latter demonstrating a break from the norm by Robert Ludlum, as it is as much a psychological thriller as a spy thriller).
Supernatural thriller: In which the conflict is between main characters, usually one of which has supernatural powers. Carrie by Stephen King, Unbreakable by M. Night Shyamalan, and Torchwood are notable examples of this genre. This type of thriller combines tension of the regular thriller with such basic horror oriented ingredients as ghosts, the occult, and psychic phenomenon; the supernatural thriller combines these with a frightening but often restrained film. They also generally eschew the more graphic elements of the horror film in favor of sustaining a mood of menace and unpredictability; supernatural thrillers often find the protagonists either battling a malevolent paranormal force or trapped in a situation seemingly influenced or controlled by an other-worldly entity beyond their comprehension.
Techno-thriller: A work that usually focuses upon military action, in which technology (usually military technology) is described in detail and made essential to the reader's/viewer's understanding of the plot. Tom Clancy defined and popularized the genre with his The Hunt for Red October, and is considered to be the "Father of the Technothriller".
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Forms and Conventions of a Thriller
Before our planning we looked at a few films in class, and a couple at home. This helped us to identify with the genre and see what made a thriller so successful. We began to look closely at the conventions so that we could use them to make our thriller.
Here are some conventions we identified;
Here are some conventions we identified;
- Thriller events happen on a grand scale - for example instead of one murder there would be serial or mass murders.
- Jeopardy and violence are standard plot elements
- Often explore the psychological reasons of the villain
- Fast paced - quick edits
- Cliff hangers
- Red herrings
- Many different camera angles used to create a fast paced sequence
- Strong soundtrack to build tension and suspense
- Lighting used to create shadows and darkness
- Audience fully understand the main characters personality and motives
- Audience is manipulated by the twists and turns of the plot
When looking to create the opening to our thriller we decided to use some of these conventions to influence us. This would make a successfully thriller that the audience would enjoy to watch.
Second Shooting - April
Due to all of our busy schedules we decided that we would film the shadow scene at Chloe's house instead, and in fact it was a better location as we had a blank wall to project the shadows onto. It did take a while to get the lights positioned exactly so we could have the characters producing the shadows onto the wall without having them seen by the camera. We used a number of lamps to bounce the light off the wall which gave us the right effect. Chloe and her brother played the mother and father, we got her brother's shadow to appear more dominant by having him closer and Chloe further away. This showed the contrast between his dominant superior character and Chloe's character who was being abused. In this scene we chose to use a baseball bat to create lot's of brutality and to show the severity of the attacks to the audience. Even if the filming did take a few hours we were eventually happy with all the shots we had got and knew we could edit them to make them look really good.
Location - Gnosall Park
We choose this particular park because of the surrounding area being field and trees. We thought that this would be very successful because it would show she is isolated and alone.
From google maps you can see the area in which the park is set and why we chose this area.
First Shooting - February
On our first day we decided to do the park scene, we found this to be very successful but very time consuming as we need lot's of different shots so that when we came to edit we had a variety to choose from.
We decided to choose a park in Gnosall as this was more secluded and had the right scenery in the background. We wanted a park which there were trees in the background and you could not see the road from where you were filming so this park was ideal to create the atmosphere we wanted.
The park however was very busy in the February half term. But we still managed to get the right shots with the perfect weather conditions. We got shots from all different angles and distances so that when it came to edit we could build up the scene.
The actor, Teylor, with her costume began to swing, we then began shooting. We used tracking shots, point of view shots, close ups, long shots, reverse angle shots etc.
Once the park scene was done we had planned to go back to scene the rest of the opening in which the shadows would be created on a blank wall. This was however not possible because of time so we had to arrange to do this another time, which in the end did not create any big problems with our schedule.
We decided to choose a park in Gnosall as this was more secluded and had the right scenery in the background. We wanted a park which there were trees in the background and you could not see the road from where you were filming so this park was ideal to create the atmosphere we wanted.
The park however was very busy in the February half term. But we still managed to get the right shots with the perfect weather conditions. We got shots from all different angles and distances so that when it came to edit we could build up the scene.
The actor, Teylor, with her costume began to swing, we then began shooting. We used tracking shots, point of view shots, close ups, long shots, reverse angle shots etc.
Once the park scene was done we had planned to go back to scene the rest of the opening in which the shadows would be created on a blank wall. This was however not possible because of time so we had to arrange to do this another time, which in the end did not create any big problems with our schedule.
Possible Names
We wanted to decide on a name which would be just right for our film. Choosing a bad name could mean that the film would be let down. A good name is needed to represent the thriller genre and intrigue people into what the film is about.
Here are the possible ideas we came up with;
Here are the possible ideas we came up with;
- Neglected
- Forever
- Unwanted
- Burden
- Alone
- Lonely
- The UN-needed
We finally decided on alone as we thought it is to the point and represented the key feeling of the little girl who is all alone.
Basic Plot
In our opening there would be a switch between two scene. The first being an innocent yet very lonely and sad girl on a swing alone. She appear to have thing on her mind. The audience then begin to wonder why she is all alone and what has happened to her. This can then be slowly reveled to the audience as we have flashbacks to a fight scene between her mother and father. The mother suffers domestic abuse from the father and the little girl has had to grow up experiencing that.
In the opening there are many questions still left unanswered for the audience and this is what we planned. We wanted to have the audience guessing into what has happened. From the beginning it may not even be clear that it is the little girls mother and father but what they do know is that whatever happened in the past has made the girl to be how she is. As the story would unfold there would be many twists along the way and explore the psychological reasons for how the little girl grows up.
In the opening there are many questions still left unanswered for the audience and this is what we planned. We wanted to have the audience guessing into what has happened. From the beginning it may not even be clear that it is the little girls mother and father but what they do know is that whatever happened in the past has made the girl to be how she is. As the story would unfold there would be many twists along the way and explore the psychological reasons for how the little girl grows up.
Prop List
We decided to make a prop list because we thought it would be very useful to check we had all the right equipment and things we needed so that when the day of the shoot came we could get on with filming.
Here are the items we needed;
Here are the items we needed;
- Swing
- Baseball Bat
- Bows
- White dress
- Large Light
- Blank wall (for shadows)
Mise-en-scene
Mise-en-scene refers to all things that are put into the scene, it is a very powerful component of many films as it builds a perception for the audience. For our thriller we needed to think about mise-en-scene because we wanted the audience to see the significance of the scenes.
We realised that when looking at mise-en-scene there are various components so we decided on what needed to be included in each.
- Setting - we decided upon the locations to make sure that they represented the mood to the audience.
- Lighting - this was a key element in our film so we decided to focus on representing a contrast between the light park and the dark room where low key lighting would be used.
- Costumes - the little girl is going to wear a white dress to show innocence, with pink bows.
- Props - we used a baseball bat for the final scene to show the brutality of the father towards the mother so the audience would be shocked by this.
- Performance - the girl would be looking sad and lonely so the audience would so empathy towards her. The father would be acting violently so the audience would not like this.
Here is a picture of the sort of mise-en-scene we hope to create from the innocent girl;
Our initial thriller ideas
To get us started and thinking about what our thriller would be about we brainstormed lot's of different ideas then we could choose then best one.
Here is our brainstorm;
From this we were able to discuss the ideas as a group and come together on a final idea.
This is the brainstorm of our idea;
We found this planning stage very useful because it gave us chance to write down an ideas we had and expand them until we found one which was suitable.
We decided on this one as we felt it would be the most effective as well as being capable to do.
Here is our brainstorm;
From this we were able to discuss the ideas as a group and come together on a final idea.
This is the brainstorm of our idea;
We found this planning stage very useful because it gave us chance to write down an ideas we had and expand them until we found one which was suitable.
We decided on this one as we felt it would be the most effective as well as being capable to do.
Shot List
There are many different shots which an be used in a film. When used effectively they can be put together to create a pace and mood.
We had an idea of the particular shots we wanted to include and how we would edit these to create a pace which started slow, then as we had fast cuts the pace would speed up to create tension.
Here are the shots we wanted to include;
We had an idea of the particular shots we wanted to include and how we would edit these to create a pace which started slow, then as we had fast cuts the pace would speed up to create tension.
Here are the shots we wanted to include;
- Long shot- girl swinging
- Medium shot - girl swinging
- Close up - show the innocence on the girls face
- Two shot - shadows fighting
- Establishing shot - park
- Low angle shot - looking up at girl swinging
- Cutaways - from girl swinging to the shadows
Lighting
Lighting in films, and in particular thrillers is an effective tool to create atmosphere and mood.
We wanted to show a contrast between the two different scenes; the park and the dark room. To create this effect we decided to use lighting effectively to emphasis the difference.
For our first scene we wanted to show that the little girl was pure and innocent so we filmed in the park. The lighting here was perfect and because we filmed at midday on the bright day with few clouds it was easy to get the right mood. Here we managed to get the exact effect necessary to represent the good.
For our second scene we wanted wanted to create the complete opposite, we wanted to create a room almost in complete darkness apart from the shadows of the two people. This will bring focus onto the shadows and contrast to the light park scene as the flashbacks occur. We wanted to do this to show the binary opposition between the innocence and purity in the park scene and then the evil and brutality in the shadow scene.
Tuesday, 21 April 2009
Characters
The three main characters which would be introduced to the audience at the beginning of the thriller would be the, child, mother and the father. These characters needed to be chosen in particular the girl to create the correct effect.
Domestic violence is the main topic of our film, with a cruel and unexpected twist which the audience will be intrigued to find out.
We decided that it would benefit us to make notes on the ideas of our characters.
Male character
Domestic violence is the main topic of our film, with a cruel and unexpected twist which the audience will be intrigued to find out.
We decided that it would benefit us to make notes on the ideas of our characters.
Male character
- Big built
- Dominant part
- Around 40
Female character
- Mother figure
- Vulnerable
- Small
- Defenceless
- Lifeless
Young Child
- Innocent
- Small girl
- White Dress
- Pink bows
- Pale skin
- Around 10
- Blonde hair
We set this brief out and managed to find people to fit.
Location Ideas
We decided that we would use two different locations for the film. The two locations could then be used as a flashback effect with fast edits to create tension and keep the audience interested.
The first location would be a park scene where we would have the Innocent girl on a swing.
Here are our ideas of what the location should be like;
We sketched an idea of what we wanted it to look like to help us with out shooting and ideas.
The second of our two locations would be a dingy room in which the shadow scene of the fight between the mother and father would take place.
Here are our ideas of what the locations should be like;
The first location would be a park scene where we would have the Innocent girl on a swing.
Here are our ideas of what the location should be like;
- Deserted
- Surrounded by trees
- Old squeaky swing
- Isolated
- Tall blades of grass.
We sketched an idea of what we wanted it to look like to help us with out shooting and ideas.
The second of our two locations would be a dingy room in which the shadow scene of the fight between the mother and father would take place.
Here are our ideas of what the locations should be like;
- Old
- Scruffy
- Dark & Dingy
- Dirty
- Shadows projected on the wall behind
We also sketched what the room would look like with the two shadows in it.
Film Classifications
The majority of thrillers are either classified as a 15 or 18. We did some of research into what the differences was between the two so we could decide what classification would be most suitable for our film.
We decided that our opening for our thriller would be a 15 because of the imitated violence used.
'15' – Suitable only for 15 years and over
No-one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video or DVD.
Theme
No theme is prohibited, provided the treatment is appropriate to 15 year old.
Language
There may be frequent use of strong language (eg 'fuck'). But the strongest terms (eg 'cunt') will be acceptable only where justified by the context. Continued aggressive use of the strongest language is unlikely to be acceptable.
Nudity
Nudity may be allowed in a sexual context but without strong detail. There are no constraints on nudity in a non-sexual or educational context.
Sex
Sexual activity may be portrayed but without strong detail. There may be strong verbal references to sexual behaviour.
Violence
Violence may be strong but may not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury. Scenes of sexual violence must be discreet and brief.
Imitable techniques
Dangerous techniques (eg combat, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on imitable detail. Easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised.
Horror
Strong threat and menace are permitted. The strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable.
Drugs
Drug taking may be shown but the film as a whole must not promote or encourage drug misuse.
'18' – Suitable only for adults
No-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video.
In line with the consistent findings of the BBFC's public consultations, at '18' the BBFC's guideline concerns will not normally override the wish that adults should be free to chose their own entertainment, within the law.
Exceptions are most likely in the following areas:
We decided that our opening for our thriller would be a 15 because of the imitated violence used.
'15' – Suitable only for 15 years and over
No-one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video or DVD.
Theme
No theme is prohibited, provided the treatment is appropriate to 15 year old.
Language
There may be frequent use of strong language (eg 'fuck'). But the strongest terms (eg 'cunt') will be acceptable only where justified by the context. Continued aggressive use of the strongest language is unlikely to be acceptable.
Nudity
Nudity may be allowed in a sexual context but without strong detail. There are no constraints on nudity in a non-sexual or educational context.
Sex
Sexual activity may be portrayed but without strong detail. There may be strong verbal references to sexual behaviour.
Violence
Violence may be strong but may not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury. Scenes of sexual violence must be discreet and brief.
Imitable techniques
Dangerous techniques (eg combat, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on imitable detail. Easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised.
Horror
Strong threat and menace are permitted. The strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable.
Drugs
Drug taking may be shown but the film as a whole must not promote or encourage drug misuse.
'18' – Suitable only for adults
No-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video.
In line with the consistent findings of the BBFC's public consultations, at '18' the BBFC's guideline concerns will not normally override the wish that adults should be free to chose their own entertainment, within the law.
Exceptions are most likely in the following areas:
- where material or treatment appears to the Board to risk harm to individuals or, through their behaviour, to society – e.g. any detailed portrayal of violent or dangerous acts, or of illegal drug use, which is likely to promote the activity. The Board may also intervene with portrayals of sexual violence which might, e.g. eroticise or endorse sexual assault.
- the more explicit images of sexual activity – unless they can be exceptionally justified by context and the work is not a 'sex work' as defined below.
In the case of videos and DVDs, which may be more accessible to younger viewers, intervention may be more frequent. For the same reason, and because of the different way in which they are experienced, the Board may take a more precautionary approach in the case of those digital games which are covered by the Video Recordings Act.
Possible Soundtracks
Sound can be used as a main feature to create a mood and a particular atmosphere. When making our film we decided we needed a particular sound track that would create tension and sadness. We though about which song to use because we feel that it is a very important part to the opening, as the first sounds heard by the audience.
We decided to come up with a few possibilities so we could see what would fit best with the end product.
Here are our ideas;
We decided to come up with a few possibilities so we could see what would fit best with the end product.
Here are our ideas;
- Every time you go away - Brian McKnight
- How to save a life - The Fray
- Never felt this way - Alicia Keys
- Nothing else matters - Lucia Silvas
- Save the hero - Beyonce
One of our other ideas was to have another non-diegetic sound in the background. We thought having a twisted lullaby would cause the audience to feel uneasy, which would be perfect in the thriller genre.
This is the lullaby we chose;
Hush, little baby, don't say a word.
Papa's gonna buy you a mockingbird
And if that mockingbird won't sing,
Papa's gonna buy you a diamond ring
And if that diamond ring turns brass,
Papa's gonna buy you a looking glass
And if that looking glass gets broke,
Papa's gonna buy you a billy goat
And if that billy goat won't pull,
Papa's gonna buy you a cart and bull
And if that cart and bull turn over,
Papa's gonna buy you a dog named Rover
And if that dog named Rover won't bark
Papa's gonna buy you a horse and cart
And if that horse and cart fall down
You'll still be the sweetest little baby in town.
We know this lullaby would be too long, so decided we will pick certain lines out to create the effect we are looking for in the opening.
Thursday, 2 April 2009
Cancelled Shooting
We planned our first shooting on 20th February but unfortunately we had to cancel the shoot because the child who was acting in our film was unavailable for that particular day. This did put us behind schedule but we managed to make the time back by arranging an alternative extra day.
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