Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Friday, March 16, 2012
Film Noir - Contributions to the production
Throughout the production process' we delegated the jobs within our group, here are my contributions for each process;
Pre Production:
- (with help from the other team members) wrote the plotline for the story
- wrote the whole first draft of the screenplay
- edit the second and final draft of the screenplay after the group had discussed changes
- acquired film location
- completed the RECCE with Luke
- completed the storyboard
- created character profiles for each character
- researched into props and costumes for the actors
- acquired the props (with the other members of the group)
- acquired Warwick Davis for the evening of filming
Production (Filming):
- set up and created the set
- controlled one of the two cameras
- directed the production
Post Production:
- help edit the first draft of the production
- find appropriate feedback from an audience
- begin helping the second edit
Pre Production:
- (with help from the other team members) wrote the plotline for the story
- wrote the whole first draft of the screenplay
- edit the second and final draft of the screenplay after the group had discussed changes
- acquired film location
- completed the RECCE with Luke
- completed the storyboard
- created character profiles for each character
- researched into props and costumes for the actors
- acquired the props (with the other members of the group)
- acquired Warwick Davis for the evening of filming
Production (Filming):
- set up and created the set
- controlled one of the two cameras
- directed the production
Post Production:
- help edit the first draft of the production
- find appropriate feedback from an audience
- begin helping the second edit
Film Noir - 1st Draft of the production
Here is the 1st draft of our Film Noir production. Due to audience feedback we are going to change and add several things;
- take away the audio from the opening scene and replace with a voiceover- add in Film Noir styled music to the opening
- add a title sequence when the detectives are walking down the street
- add a sound effect of a gunshot when the gun is fired
- take away the audio from the final shot so footsteps can't be heard
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Film Noir - Post-Production - Diary Entry
We have started the editing process of our production. Since Luke was the lighting director of the filming process and has a good knowledge of the editing software Adobe Premier, he has decided to be the main editor with Sam and I helping him with what shots to use and the right stage of where to cut the different part of the footage.
Half of the clips have been edited together leaving only the second half of them to be cut and inserted. Other elements such as music, the title sequence and also sound effects including the gun shot will need to be added accordingly. Apart from that, our editing process is running smoothly and efficiently with no drawbacks as such.
I will now have to start thinking about and writing up my full evaluation of our production once all of the editing has been completed.
Half of the clips have been edited together leaving only the second half of them to be cut and inserted. Other elements such as music, the title sequence and also sound effects including the gun shot will need to be added accordingly. Apart from that, our editing process is running smoothly and efficiently with no drawbacks as such.
I will now have to start thinking about and writing up my full evaluation of our production once all of the editing has been completed.
Film Noir - Production - Filming Process
The filming process took place on the 3rd March at around 6pm. We had to postpone the original time of 5pm due to the unscheduled amount of natural light still around at this time. As one of our actos had other plans for that evening; filming was pressured. To come over this problem, we decided to film, as soon as it was dark enough, the alleyway scene first. This was because the Villain, played by Warwick Davies, was the actor with the plans that evening.
After Warwick's part was completed we then moved onto the other dialogue shots in the alleyway. Because of the allowance of time that we had, we could then film two or three takes of one shot giving us a variation of shots to use when it came to the filming process. When moving into the house for filming, the lighting was already set up along with the detective's office so that we could start filming straight away. With a few adjustments with the lights to make sure the lighting was to how we wanted it and also making sure the characters were in shot - we were ready to film the dialogue inside the 'office'. This section of filming didn't take long at all since there were little amount of coversation for the actors to act. When the final shot was taken we were finished and were very happy with the results by quickly looking through the footage. As soon as the kit was packed away and the set was dismantled; the filming process was over.
After Warwick's part was completed we then moved onto the other dialogue shots in the alleyway. Because of the allowance of time that we had, we could then film two or three takes of one shot giving us a variation of shots to use when it came to the filming process. When moving into the house for filming, the lighting was already set up along with the detective's office so that we could start filming straight away. With a few adjustments with the lights to make sure the lighting was to how we wanted it and also making sure the characters were in shot - we were ready to film the dialogue inside the 'office'. This section of filming didn't take long at all since there were little amount of coversation for the actors to act. When the final shot was taken we were finished and were very happy with the results by quickly looking through the footage. As soon as the kit was packed away and the set was dismantled; the filming process was over.
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Filming Location / Info
The filming location was arranged by myself, we had discussed other areas of the village but decided our storyline would fit most comfortably within the surroundings of where I live in Yaxley. Below is an image of where my house is situated in correlation to the alleyway;
The alleyway is close to the first location, this will ensure it will keep the production in real-time as the actors walk down into the second scene - the alleyway. The first location will be set up by myself in preparation for the filming process.
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Final Script
Film Noir - Script - Final
Here is the final script for our Film Noir production. We edited the script to make the dialogue shorter in the opening scene as we feel that this could make the start too lengthy and could distract the audience. We also deleted other lines further on in the production as we feel that the dialogue didn't follow the typical Film Noir conventions.
Here is the final script for our Film Noir production. We edited the script to make the dialogue shorter in the opening scene as we feel that this could make the start too lengthy and could distract the audience. We also deleted other lines further on in the production as we feel that the dialogue didn't follow the typical Film Noir conventions.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Research - Hairstyles
Along with the props and costumes, other factors concerning the female character's appearance such as hair and make-up must be taken into consideration. The 1940/50's look is very different to that of modern day so this has to be accounted for when it comes to the filming process and when our actors are actually on set. Here are a few examples of 1940's hairstyles and makeup;
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Research - Props and Costumes
Props
For our production we are having the villain Bruno murder one of our main detectives Miles. We discussed as to how we were going to have the murder take place and came to the conclusion that a gun would be used due to other film noir's using side arms to be the contributing factor of death of a character.
Here are some examples of possible guns to be used;
For our production we are having the villain Bruno murder one of our main detectives Miles. We discussed as to how we were going to have the murder take place and came to the conclusion that a gun would be used due to other film noir's using side arms to be the contributing factor of death of a character.
Here are some examples of possible guns to be used;
These three guns follow the Film Noir genre as revolvers and small side arms were used frequently in fire fights or murders. However, a revolver seems like the likely choice as it does add to the effect of a villain such as ours by having such a costly weapon.
In the opening scene, other props such as a clock and papers placed on the desk will be used. Also, an additional lamp maybe used to add to the office scene when the detectives are working on the case.
The costumes of the characters is another important part. The detectives and villain will most likely be wearing smart suits whilst smoking cigars etc. Also, hats could be worn to add to the suit which again follows the film noir genre. The actors will need to be informed about the different clothing that they will have to wear to fit the character's appearance. Below are some examples of what our detectives will look like;
The final character is our femme fatale. She will be wearing a skirt which fits the appearance of a conventional female character in a film noir production. Her appearance will be beautiful and striking to the audience which again fits the conventions. As important as the detectives and their hats, the femme fatale's hair needs to fit the 1940/50's look. Modern looks today are much different to those of the 40's and 50's. When preparing for filming these considerations for the femme fatale will be taken into account so that her appearance is what is expected of a female character in a film noir production. Below are some examples of dress wear and hair styles;
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Risk Assessment
Below is the risk assessment documents which provides a detailed explanation of what dangers there are when filming. Our media teacher signed the document to allow us to film our production after reading through the risks.
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Recce
Below are the photos that were taken on the recce. The interior pictures are of the internal location for filming and the exterior are the external locations.
Above is a picture of the first scene, this will be transformed into an office for the detectives. A desk will be put into place with other various props such as papers and a clock to add authenticity to the set. Below is just another angle of the opening set location.
Below is the hallway of the "detective's house"
Above is a picture of the first scene, this will be transformed into an office for the detectives. A desk will be put into place with other various props such as papers and a clock to add authenticity to the set. Below is just another angle of the opening set location.
Below is the hallway of the "detective's house"
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Lighting
In pretty much all media aspects, lighting plays a very important role to a scene. It can light up areas that the audience needs to be drawn to or it can be used to hide character's visual appearance but still make them noticable. There are two form of lighting and these are natural light, which is found directly or indirectly from the sun, and artificial light which is produced from electrical lights that are used by film crews or even a lamp or light based on a celing that is part of a set.
The lighting kits that the media department provide for the productions are very basic but can be used efficiently when used at full potential. These lighting kits can take a while to set up but when used appropriately many different effects can be achieved. Along with health and safety factors, other factors contributing to the lights performance can change the way in which light is distributed throughout a set. If the scene is externally filmed then factors of natural light come into the equation and can disrupt the artificial light's purpose. Even internally artificial lights can be disrupted by the simplest of things such as a white wall, the light may reflect off the wall and cause other areas to light up.
When filming our production these factors need to be taken into consideration if the right effects want to be used, and used well.
3 Point Lighting
A popular technique used throughout the media world is called 3 point lighting, in which three lights are used to create an effect. The first main light is called the key light, this is the most strongest and influentual light of the three and provides the 'key' light source. The next light is called the fill light, this basically combines with the key light, as it is opposite, to add another dose of artificial light to a scene and add that extra needed visibility to a shot if needs be. The final light is called the back lght, this is placed behind the back of a shot but not in direct view of the camera. This can provide the final addition to lighting a scene and gives a full sense of lighting within a shot. The three lights corralate into a triangle and provides sufficient detail to a well lit character in a camera shot.
However, not all of the lights have to be used. This can provide necessary effects to a camera shot, for example, if only the backlight is used then the front of the character appears shadowed and can make the desired character look more mysterious as the facial expression, features and dexterity are not easily recognised.
Health and safety aspects
Certain elements of safety need to be taken into consideration when using a lighting kit.
Rule 1 - work the light at your own working height level as this will ensure full control over the light.
Rule 2 - the powerlead must hang down. If tangled then this could cause the light to fall over.
Rule 3 - make sure the barndoor is level with the leg. In case of a collision, this will provide the necessary safety to the individual that has knocked the light.
Rule 4 - never use light ouside.
Rule 5 - before you plug in the surge protector, press the yellow button followed by the red and the repeat the yellow. This tests the protector is working properly to ensure that it won't cause any damage to the entry point of electrical devices.
The lighting kits that the media department provide for the productions are very basic but can be used efficiently when used at full potential. These lighting kits can take a while to set up but when used appropriately many different effects can be achieved. Along with health and safety factors, other factors contributing to the lights performance can change the way in which light is distributed throughout a set. If the scene is externally filmed then factors of natural light come into the equation and can disrupt the artificial light's purpose. Even internally artificial lights can be disrupted by the simplest of things such as a white wall, the light may reflect off the wall and cause other areas to light up.
When filming our production these factors need to be taken into consideration if the right effects want to be used, and used well.
3 Point Lighting
A popular technique used throughout the media world is called 3 point lighting, in which three lights are used to create an effect. The first main light is called the key light, this is the most strongest and influentual light of the three and provides the 'key' light source. The next light is called the fill light, this basically combines with the key light, as it is opposite, to add another dose of artificial light to a scene and add that extra needed visibility to a shot if needs be. The final light is called the back lght, this is placed behind the back of a shot but not in direct view of the camera. This can provide the final addition to lighting a scene and gives a full sense of lighting within a shot. The three lights corralate into a triangle and provides sufficient detail to a well lit character in a camera shot.
However, not all of the lights have to be used. This can provide necessary effects to a camera shot, for example, if only the backlight is used then the front of the character appears shadowed and can make the desired character look more mysterious as the facial expression, features and dexterity are not easily recognised.
Health and safety aspects
Certain elements of safety need to be taken into consideration when using a lighting kit.
Rule 1 - work the light at your own working height level as this will ensure full control over the light.
Rule 2 - the powerlead must hang down. If tangled then this could cause the light to fall over.
Rule 3 - make sure the barndoor is level with the leg. In case of a collision, this will provide the necessary safety to the individual that has knocked the light.
Rule 4 - never use light ouside.
Rule 5 - before you plug in the surge protector, press the yellow button followed by the red and the repeat the yellow. This tests the protector is working properly to ensure that it won't cause any damage to the entry point of electrical devices.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Storyboard
Here is the storyboard that was written and drawn by myself;
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Shot List & Diary Entry
Shot list
Diary Entry - Another update on the filming casting. Luke's family relations said that they can be used for acting purposes which is ideal as they are easily acessible for use and also we can keep them up-to-date with what essential details they need to be informed about such as filming dates, what they will need to wear and other aspects similar to those.
I have recently asked Warwick if he will be availible for filming and he said that he might be able to be free to do so, depending on times.
Location aspects have been also sorted, the filming will be done inside my house and down my road with the use of a nearby alleyway. A risk assessment will be filled out accordingly by one of the team members and also a recce will be carried out as well for pictures and details such as different camera positions and how rooms will be arranged and changed around to become a Film Noir set.
Diary Entry - Another update on the filming casting. Luke's family relations said that they can be used for acting purposes which is ideal as they are easily acessible for use and also we can keep them up-to-date with what essential details they need to be informed about such as filming dates, what they will need to wear and other aspects similar to those.
I have recently asked Warwick if he will be availible for filming and he said that he might be able to be free to do so, depending on times.
Location aspects have been also sorted, the filming will be done inside my house and down my road with the use of a nearby alleyway. A risk assessment will be filled out accordingly by one of the team members and also a recce will be carried out as well for pictures and details such as different camera positions and how rooms will be arranged and changed around to become a Film Noir set.
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Character Bio's & Diary Entry
Character Bio's
Diary Entry - As the filming date comes closer more and more of the pre-production tasks have been completed. The next challenge that we need to over come is arranging suitable actors to be availible for our filming date. I live next door to a famous actor Warwick Davis that has starred in the likes of Star Wars, Willow, The Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy and many more. I do intend to ask for his availability, but at this moment in time I am unsure as to whether we may be able to use him.
Other actors with the desired age ranges for our characters are hard to come by, unlike in the preliminary task the actors were people from our school. One of the team members Luke has said that some of his family are willing to act for us which maybe resorted to if other actors cannot be achieved.
Diary Entry - As the filming date comes closer more and more of the pre-production tasks have been completed. The next challenge that we need to over come is arranging suitable actors to be availible for our filming date. I live next door to a famous actor Warwick Davis that has starred in the likes of Star Wars, Willow, The Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy and many more. I do intend to ask for his availability, but at this moment in time I am unsure as to whether we may be able to use him.
Other actors with the desired age ranges for our characters are hard to come by, unlike in the preliminary task the actors were people from our school. One of the team members Luke has said that some of his family are willing to act for us which maybe resorted to if other actors cannot be achieved.
Film Noir - Pre-Production - Plot & Diary Entry
Characters
Detective – Dixon (Detective Dixon)
Assistant Detective – Miles (Detective Miles)
Femme Fatale (Glamorous Girl) – Lola
Villain – Bruno
Plot
Detective Dixon and Miles are working on a series of murder cases that are all linked to the infamous “Bruno”. No matter how hard they try, whenever they get close to finding evidence against the murderer he always seems to slip away. It could be coincidence or just the criminal mind overpowering the detective’s skills. The truth of the murders is closer than he imagines and is right under his nose without realising.
Plot
Detective Dixon and Miles are working on a series of murder cases that are all linked to the infamous “Bruno”. No matter how hard they try, whenever they get close to finding evidence against the murderer he always seems to slip away. It could be coincidence or just the criminal mind overpowering the detective’s skills. The truth of the murders is closer than he imagines and is right under his nose without realising.
Dixon follows Miles on a bleak night to distant alleyway. Miles meets a shadowy figure – the criminal, Bruno. Muffled words are all that the detective can hear from the conversation, without warning a gunshot is heard and all that is left is Miles’ body left to die. Dixon runs towards Miles’ body. As he reaches for his body to comfort his fallen detective, a glamorous femme fatale appear from the darkness because the beckoning gunshot drew her towards her fallen fiancé.
Mile’s dying words share his loves for his fiancé and the recognition of his caring detective Dixon. His final last words are “I’m so sorry Dixon, I’ve let you down.” This perplexes Dixon, leaving him and Miles’ fiancé wondering what his late detective meant by this.
Diary Entry - As we move through the pre-production process, more and more of the stages are being completed / are in the process of being completed. The plot that is written above was originally constructed as a draft to aid me in the script writing phase. It gave me clear instructions as to what write and how the characters should be talking to one another etc.
We now begin to confir as to who may star in our production and who would be suitable in the desired roles.
Diary Entry - As we move through the pre-production process, more and more of the stages are being completed / are in the process of being completed. The plot that is written above was originally constructed as a draft to aid me in the script writing phase. It gave me clear instructions as to what write and how the characters should be talking to one another etc.
We now begin to confir as to who may star in our production and who would be suitable in the desired roles.
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