This is the link to our group blog, Blue Productions
Blue Productions Group Blog
Wednesday 4 May 2011
Evaluation
These are the links to the group blog to view our evaluation questions.
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 1
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 2
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 3
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 4
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 5
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 6
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 7
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 1
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 2
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 3
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 4
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 5
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 6
Blue Productions - Evaluation Question 7
Sunday 6 March 2011
Final Shotlist
Final Shotlist
We created an initial and final shot list to show the shots of our filming and how the film will run. This was also to make sure our filming would be efficient.
We used a range of long shots and close-ups with the news reporters and this enabled us to show a range of camera angles.
We used high and low angle shots to portray our characters in the sense we aimed for and the variety of shots helped to make our film more interesting.
We created an initial and final shot list to show the shots of our filming and how the film will run. This was also to make sure our filming would be efficient.
We used a range of long shots and close-ups with the news reporters and this enabled us to show a range of camera angles.
We used high and low angle shots to portray our characters in the sense we aimed for and the variety of shots helped to make our film more interesting.
Tuesday 1 March 2011
Comparing Ideas
LOCATIONThis picture shows a snap shot from a scene in the film 'The Lovely Bones' (2009).
The location conveys the theme of mysety instantly with the blank, open field and gives the audience and eerie feel. For my film, it was decided that for it to be possible to set the mood and portay the required atmosphere needed for the chosen genre, a spooky, unknown setting for part of the opening would be needed so i compared ideas with this film as it has a similar setting to the one we are aiming for.
MONTAGE
For the montage in our opening we gained inspiration from Dawn of the Dead (2004) as it uses a similar opening effects as to what we were looking for.
This shows a build up of sound and effects which come together to create a montague with the use of news conferences. We based our ideas around this piece as we believe it is an effective opening which reflects the genre well and creates suspense and tension to fit in with relevant themes and atmospheres. We have adapted the idea by using news headlines and reportings being shown aswell along with flashing images and sudden sounds. At first we had doubts that the montage may come across too similar to the aspects of a trailer and may be portaryed as more of a trailer rather than film opening but the 'Dawn of the Dead (2004)' opening allowed us to see that it is possible to edit the piece in a way that is is viewed as an opening to a film.
EDITING & SPECIAL EFFECTS
This is a screenshot taken from the film 'The Unborn' (2009). In our film opening we have decided to use a reflection in the mirror for added tension and horror into the film. The Unborn uses a similar convention in which we have gained inspiration from in order to convey our chosen genre. The Unborn is also a psychological thriller/horror so by using a similar idea to this, we can assure that the genre and the required atmosphere will be portrayed to the audience.
However, we have decided to adapt this idea with the use of a mirror. Mirrors and refelctions are stereotypical conventions in psychological thrillers so the use of this will help to portray our genre.
Thinking about Casting
For the opening of our film, we will be introduced to 3 or 4 main characters so I looked into the type of person and their characteristics for the roles. The characters usually consist of:
-Hero/Protagonist
-AllyàOppenent
-OpponentàAlly
For Example Saoirse Ronan, who played Susie Salmon in The Lovely Bones (2009) was able to capture the part as a young girl targeted in the opening of the film (then killed) and hold the audience with her capability to produce the emotions and acting skills required for the part.
This film is a psychological thriller so it is easy to relate the sort type of actor to our film.
However, a young girl is always difficult to cast as they do not have experience in acting and would have to be able to follow instruction and direction in order to stay focused and play the part to a proffesional standard so we will have to take into strong consideration who will play this part still keeping the image of a young girl.
We will also have to take into account appearence and personality so we would carry out auditions to see who best fit the role of this character.
Another main character in our film opening is the villain, the antagonist. He is mysterious and is not seen much in the opening but as the film develops, his role becomes more major. When considering casting for this role, we looked at many male actors that normally feature in films as the villain. He also plays the main role in 'American Psycho' (2000) which shows he is a capable actor of taking on big roles which is exactly what we need for the part of the villain. The villain would need to have experience in acting like Christian Bale does as he has starred in many mainstream films. However, the appearance of the character would need to fit in with the role and this may cause problems with the type of actor available to us so we would have to consider costume and make-up in order to make sure the audience are aware of the villain. An example based on looks would be Jason Statham as he had a typical villain appearance which would be easy to adapt and had also played the part of the villain in films.
The Mother seen as the protagonist also plays a big role throughout the film as she becomes the main detective to hunt down her daughter after she is kidknapped. The rest of the film will run as she trys to find her daughter and get to the bottom of the mystery disappearances. She is a brave woman and is a scientist so knows what she is doing. Actresses such as Angelina Jolie and Megan Fox.
-Hero/Protagonist
-AllyàOppenent
-OpponentàAlly
-Villain/Antagonist
This would help us think about the type of character to play each part and would aid us when it came to casting our opening so we had high class actors that could follow direction and create the piece. Actors must fit the part and be able to portray the correct feel of the film.
One of our main characters in the opening would be a young girl.
She is vulnerable and innocent but at the same time a popular and well known girl.
We would need somone who would be able to play the role to a high standard in a serious way.
With the hauntings on the girl, this means that the character would have to be a good actor and be able to convey true emotions when acting. For Example Saoirse Ronan, who played Susie Salmon in The Lovely Bones (2009) was able to capture the part as a young girl targeted in the opening of the film (then killed) and hold the audience with her capability to produce the emotions and acting skills required for the part.
However, a young girl is always difficult to cast as they do not have experience in acting and would have to be able to follow instruction and direction in order to stay focused and play the part to a proffesional standard so we will have to take into strong consideration who will play this part still keeping the image of a young girl.
We will also have to take into account appearence and personality so we would carry out auditions to see who best fit the role of this character.
Another main character in our film opening is the villain, the antagonist. He is mysterious and is not seen much in the opening but as the film develops, his role becomes more major. When considering casting for this role, we looked at many male actors that normally feature in films as the villain. He also plays the main role in 'American Psycho' (2000) which shows he is a capable actor of taking on big roles which is exactly what we need for the part of the villain. The villain would need to have experience in acting like Christian Bale does as he has starred in many mainstream films. However, the appearance of the character would need to fit in with the role and this may cause problems with the type of actor available to us so we would have to consider costume and make-up in order to make sure the audience are aware of the villain. An example based on looks would be Jason Statham as he had a typical villain appearance which would be easy to adapt and had also played the part of the villain in films. 
The Mother seen as the protagonist also plays a big role throughout the film as she becomes the main detective to hunt down her daughter after she is kidknapped. The rest of the film will run as she trys to find her daughter and get to the bottom of the mystery disappearances. She is a brave woman and is a scientist so knows what she is doing. Actresses such as Angelina Jolie and Megan Fox.Angelina Jolie featured in Salt (2010) which came under the action/thriller genres. She played a CIA agent in this film and was part of the action so she would be a good example for the mother in our piece. She has experience in playing the part and is also a mother and wife so would also be able to give key emotions and relate to family.
She is a high class actress and furthermore, she is pretty so the Male Gaze Theory would be emphasised in this way.
Megan Fox is another with similar qualities as an actress and starred in Transformers (2007), a big hit thriller involving a lot of action in which she was part of.
We have also considered casting on the group blog looking at each characters and their characteristics such as appearance and personality.
The link below shows further casting we considered as a group for each character in our opening piece.
Blue Productions - Character Profiles/Casting
The link below shows further casting we considered as a group for each character in our opening piece.
Blue Productions - Character Profiles/Casting
Timeline of Titles
The Others (2001)
For one of the film openings from my chosen genre (psychological thriller) we were asked to write a timeline of titles for when each title appeared in the opening. This would allow us to gain an insight into when titles were introduced to the opening.
Titles Timeline
0.13-0.16 - a CRUISE/WAGNER PRODUCTIONS
SOGECINE
LAS PRODUCCIONES DEL ESCORPION
production
0.20-0.23 - Nicole KIDMAN
in
0.26-0.30 - The OTHERS
0.33-0.35 - Fionulla FLANAGAN
0.37-0.39 - Christopher ECCLESTON
0.42-0.44 - Alakina MANN
James BENTLEY
0.46-0.48 - Eric SYKES
0.50-0.52 - Elaine CASSIDY
0.54-0.57 - Keith ALLEN
Renee ASHERSON
Michelle FAIRLEY
0.58-1.02 - casting
Jina JAY
Shaheen BAIG
1.03-1.06 - costume design
Sonia GRANDE
1.08-1.10 - sound
Ricardo STEINBERG
1.11-1.13 - production design
Benjamin FERNANDEZ
1.15-1.18 - director of photography
Jaier AGUIRRESAROBE A.E.C
1.19-1.24 - executive producers
Tom CRUISE
Paula WAGNER
1.25-1.29 - executive producers
Bob WEINSTEIN
Harvey WEINSTEIN
Rick SCHWARTZ
1.30-1.34 - produced by
Fernando BOVAIRA
Jose Luis CUERDA
Sunmin PARK
1.35-1.39 - written and directed by
Alejandro AMENABAR
(End of Titling)
1.44-1.47 - Jersey, the Channel Islands
1945
(Introduction to place and time - historical)
I found that the institutional titles came first introucing production and presenting with the main actor following. This increases box office appeal as it states the main actor which viewers would have an interest in. The main title of the film (The OTHERS) was introduced near the beginning of the titles, followed by other actors (box office appeal), casting, costume design, sound, production design, director of photography, executive producers and finishing with written and directed by.
These titles then finished and we were given an idea of the time and place of the beginning of the film (Jersey, the Channel Islands, 1945), which was used to convey the setting and location to the audience.
This task has helped to give me an idea of what titles to include in the opening to my groups psychological thriller and at what time they would appear so i am able to take this into account when filming and editing the piece in order to create a strong title sequence like the one in this film.
I think that introudicng the audience to the location and time is a good idea as it gives an idea of the setting and creates the atmosphere so i will take this into account when planning my film opening.
However, institutional logos would need to feature at the very beginning before titles are introduced and the main actor could be as effectively introduced after the main title has been presented.
I then compared titles with that of a different genre and chose to analyse the opening and title sequence of mean girls(2004) which is a comedy to highlight the similarities and differences between the two.
Mean Girls (2004)
Titles Timeline
0.00-0.17 - Paramount institutional logo (animated)
0.18-0.20 - PARAMOUNT
PICTURES PRESENT
0.21-0.23 - A
LORNE
MICHAELS
PRODUCTION
0.24-0.26 - LINDSAY LOHAN
0.27-0.29 - MEAN GIRLS
-------------Film introduction - long pause of titles-------------
Titles begin to use a sliding and bouncing transistions - unusual & different
1.41-1.44 - RACHEL McADAMS
1.46-1.48 - TIM MEADOWS
1.52-1.54 - AMY POEHLER
1.55-1.57 - ANA GASTEYER
2.02-2.04 - LACEY CHABERT
2.14-2.17 - LIZZY CAPLAN
DANIEL FRANZESE
2.27-2.30 - NEIL FLYNN
JONATHAN BENNETT
AMANDA SEYFRIED
2.38-2.41 - AND
TINA FEY
2.47-2.50 - CASTING BY
MARCI LIROFF
3.00-3.03 - BASED ON THE BOOK
"QUEEN BEES AND
WANNABES"
BY ROSALIND WISEMAN
3.06-3.09 - MUSIC SUPERVISORS
AMANDA SCHEER DEMME
BUCK DAMON
3.15-3.17 - MUSIC COMPOSED
AND CONDUCTED BY
ROLFE KENT
3.25-3.28 - CO-PRODUCER
LOUISE ROSNER
3.40-3.44 - COSTUME DESIGNER
MARY
JANE FORT
4.01-4.03 - EDITOR
WENDY
GREENEBRICMONT,
A.C.E
4.06-4.08 - PRODUCTION DESIGNER
CARY WHITE
4.18-4.21 - DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
DARYN OKADA, ASC
4.29-4.32 - EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
JILL MESSICK
4.33-4.36 - PRODUCED BY
LORNE MICHAELS
4.38-4.41 - SCREENPLAY BY
TINA FEY
4.53-4.56 - DIRECTED BY
MARK WATERS
END OF TITLES.
The titles in this opening are bold and colourful and stand out to the audience and reflect the comedy genre to give a bubbly and lively atmosphere and portray the theme of happiness and fun.
They are of a simple writing style but with the use of colour, this helps to introduce the film and actors and increase box office appeal with 'Lindsay Lohan' at the beginning.
There are many similarities and differences between the way in which the titles run and are presented in a psychological thriller opening and a comedy opening from what i have analysed.
Similarities
The titles run in a similar order - production companys and logos begin the title sequence with the main actors name following and then the title of the film which is the same configuration in both genres. Other actors names are then shown followed by crew members, casting, screenplay, music etc.
Both title sequences reflect the genre in which they are trying to convey and leave an open narrative.
Differences
The two writing styles and colours are very different as they are required to se different atmospheres and convey different themes for the film and reflect the genre of the film for the audience. The titling of a psychological thriller is very dull and plain with an artistic style to create a mysterious atmosphere whilst the comedy genre is bright and bubbly connoting a fun atmosphere.
The titles in a psychological thriller are also closer together within the opening than a comedy and the timings of each title are closer together with no breaks where as a comedy is given a pause in titles in which it shows part of the opening in more detail. This could be to draw the audiences attention and help them understand the opening better by letting them focus on the film more than the titles. This could be due to the fact that the psychological thriller holds suspense by not giving off too much of the film within the opening and using a simple title sequence before getting into the film unlike the comedy which plays the titles over the main introduction to the film.
By comparing the titles of my chosen genre with the title sequence of another genre (comedy) i was able to see the differences in which i need to focus on when inputting into the editing of the group film opening to make sure that the audience are able to see the genre and the correct atmosphere is created for the opening,
For one of the film openings from my chosen genre (psychological thriller) we were asked to write a timeline of titles for when each title appeared in the opening. This would allow us to gain an insight into when titles were introduced to the opening.
Titles Timeline
0.13-0.16 - a CRUISE/WAGNER PRODUCTIONS
SOGECINE
LAS PRODUCCIONES DEL ESCORPION
production
0.20-0.23 - Nicole KIDMAN
in
0.26-0.30 - The OTHERS
0.33-0.35 - Fionulla FLANAGAN
0.37-0.39 - Christopher ECCLESTON
0.42-0.44 - Alakina MANN
James BENTLEY
0.46-0.48 - Eric SYKES
0.50-0.52 - Elaine CASSIDY
0.54-0.57 - Keith ALLEN
Renee ASHERSON
Michelle FAIRLEY
0.58-1.02 - casting
Jina JAY
Shaheen BAIG
1.03-1.06 - costume design
Sonia GRANDE
1.08-1.10 - sound
Ricardo STEINBERG
1.11-1.13 - production design
Benjamin FERNANDEZ
1.15-1.18 - director of photography
Jaier AGUIRRESAROBE A.E.C
1.19-1.24 - executive producers
Tom CRUISE
Paula WAGNER
1.25-1.29 - executive producers
Bob WEINSTEIN
Harvey WEINSTEIN
Rick SCHWARTZ
1.30-1.34 - produced by
Fernando BOVAIRA
Jose Luis CUERDA
Sunmin PARK
1.35-1.39 - written and directed by
Alejandro AMENABAR
(End of Titling)
1.44-1.47 - Jersey, the Channel Islands
1945
(Introduction to place and time - historical)
I found that the institutional titles came first introucing production and presenting with the main actor following. This increases box office appeal as it states the main actor which viewers would have an interest in. The main title of the film (The OTHERS) was introduced near the beginning of the titles, followed by other actors (box office appeal), casting, costume design, sound, production design, director of photography, executive producers and finishing with written and directed by.
These titles then finished and we were given an idea of the time and place of the beginning of the film (Jersey, the Channel Islands, 1945), which was used to convey the setting and location to the audience.
This task has helped to give me an idea of what titles to include in the opening to my groups psychological thriller and at what time they would appear so i am able to take this into account when filming and editing the piece in order to create a strong title sequence like the one in this film.
I think that introudicng the audience to the location and time is a good idea as it gives an idea of the setting and creates the atmosphere so i will take this into account when planning my film opening.
However, institutional logos would need to feature at the very beginning before titles are introduced and the main actor could be as effectively introduced after the main title has been presented.
I then compared titles with that of a different genre and chose to analyse the opening and title sequence of mean girls(2004) which is a comedy to highlight the similarities and differences between the two.
Mean Girls (2004)
Titles Timeline
0.00-0.17 - Paramount institutional logo (animated)
0.18-0.20 - PARAMOUNT
PICTURES PRESENT
0.21-0.23 - A
LORNE
MICHAELS
PRODUCTION
0.24-0.26 - LINDSAY LOHAN
0.27-0.29 - MEAN GIRLS
-------------Film introduction - long pause of titles-------------
Titles begin to use a sliding and bouncing transistions - unusual & different
1.41-1.44 - RACHEL McADAMS
1.46-1.48 - TIM MEADOWS
1.52-1.54 - AMY POEHLER
1.55-1.57 - ANA GASTEYER
2.02-2.04 - LACEY CHABERT
2.14-2.17 - LIZZY CAPLAN
DANIEL FRANZESE
2.27-2.30 - NEIL FLYNN
JONATHAN BENNETT
AMANDA SEYFRIED
2.38-2.41 - AND
TINA FEY
2.47-2.50 - CASTING BY
MARCI LIROFF
3.00-3.03 - BASED ON THE BOOK
"QUEEN BEES AND
WANNABES"
BY ROSALIND WISEMAN
3.06-3.09 - MUSIC SUPERVISORS
AMANDA SCHEER DEMME
BUCK DAMON
3.15-3.17 - MUSIC COMPOSED
AND CONDUCTED BY
ROLFE KENT
3.25-3.28 - CO-PRODUCER
LOUISE ROSNER
3.40-3.44 - COSTUME DESIGNER
MARY
JANE FORT
4.01-4.03 - EDITOR
WENDY
GREENEBRICMONT,
A.C.E
4.06-4.08 - PRODUCTION DESIGNER
CARY WHITE
4.18-4.21 - DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
DARYN OKADA, ASC
4.29-4.32 - EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
JILL MESSICK
4.33-4.36 - PRODUCED BY
LORNE MICHAELS
4.38-4.41 - SCREENPLAY BY
TINA FEY
4.53-4.56 - DIRECTED BY
MARK WATERS
END OF TITLES.
The titles in this opening are bold and colourful and stand out to the audience and reflect the comedy genre to give a bubbly and lively atmosphere and portray the theme of happiness and fun.
They are of a simple writing style but with the use of colour, this helps to introduce the film and actors and increase box office appeal with 'Lindsay Lohan' at the beginning.
There are many similarities and differences between the way in which the titles run and are presented in a psychological thriller opening and a comedy opening from what i have analysed.
Similarities
The titles run in a similar order - production companys and logos begin the title sequence with the main actors name following and then the title of the film which is the same configuration in both genres. Other actors names are then shown followed by crew members, casting, screenplay, music etc.
Both title sequences reflect the genre in which they are trying to convey and leave an open narrative.
Differences
The two writing styles and colours are very different as they are required to se different atmospheres and convey different themes for the film and reflect the genre of the film for the audience. The titling of a psychological thriller is very dull and plain with an artistic style to create a mysterious atmosphere whilst the comedy genre is bright and bubbly connoting a fun atmosphere.
The titles in a psychological thriller are also closer together within the opening than a comedy and the timings of each title are closer together with no breaks where as a comedy is given a pause in titles in which it shows part of the opening in more detail. This could be to draw the audiences attention and help them understand the opening better by letting them focus on the film more than the titles. This could be due to the fact that the psychological thriller holds suspense by not giving off too much of the film within the opening and using a simple title sequence before getting into the film unlike the comedy which plays the titles over the main introduction to the film.
By comparing the titles of my chosen genre with the title sequence of another genre (comedy) i was able to see the differences in which i need to focus on when inputting into the editing of the group film opening to make sure that the audience are able to see the genre and the correct atmosphere is created for the opening,
Saturday 5 February 2011
Research into Institutional Logos
For our film, we were required to create institutional logos that would appear at the beginning of our film opening. To help me create ideas for the group, I decided to look into the 20th century fox logo
and see how they have developed over time so i was able to think about these conventions and the target audience when creating and developing our own logos for the group.
The distinctive Art Deco 20th Century Fox logo, originated as the 20th Century Pictures logo, with the name "Fox" substituted for "Pictures, Inc." in 1935. The logo was originally created as a painting on several layers of glass and animated frame-by-frame. It had very little animation, only including a sideline view of the tower with searchlights, some moving and some non-moving. Over the years the logo was modified several times.
In 1953 the logo was recreated from the original design for the new CinemaScope process. In order to give the rather static design, the "0" in 20th was titled an idiosyncratic element which became part of the design for more than two decades.
In 1981, the eight-layered glass panels were given a new colour and the '0' of 20th century fox was straightened. This revised logo became the official trademark.
and see how they have developed over time so i was able to think about these conventions and the target audience when creating and developing our own logos for the group.
The distinctive Art Deco 20th Century Fox logo, originated as the 20th Century Pictures logo, with the name "Fox" substituted for "Pictures, Inc." in 1935. The logo was originally created as a painting on several layers of glass and animated frame-by-frame. It had very little animation, only including a sideline view of the tower with searchlights, some moving and some non-moving. Over the years the logo was modified several times.
In 1981, the eight-layered glass panels were given a new colour and the '0' of 20th century fox was straightened. This revised logo became the official trademark.
In 1994, an all-new, standardized logo—this time using the new process of CGI was created. The new logo contained more detail and animation, so that the longer (21 second) Fox fanfare with the "CinemaScope extension" could be used as the underscore.
In the background can be seen the famous Hollywood sign, which would give the monument an actual location. One final touch was the addition of store front signs—each one bearing the name of Fox executives who were at the studio at the time.
The 1994 CGI logo was also the first time that Twentieth Century Fox was recognized as "A News Corporation Company" in the logo, although it had already been owned by News Corp. for nine years.
In 2009, an updated logo debuted in the film Avatar(2009) The 75th Anniversary version of the 2009 logo was used to coincide with 20th Century Fox's 75th anniversary and made its official debut with Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief(2010)
and appeared for the last time with Gulliver's Travels(2010).
From this, I can see how technologies have developed and allowed the logo to develop with the use of sound and animation.
This will help me when creating an animated logo for my final film opening as i will be able to see how logos have been animated and how this has affected audience and success within the company.
Wednesday 2 February 2011
Research of Student Film
We started to do research on existing student film in order to give us an understanding of differences of film openings and film trailers. We viewed three films within our media lesson and looked at diffferent aspects of each film. We picked out strengths and weaknesses from each film in order to give us an idea about how to create our own film openings.
Student Film 1
Strengths:
-the music and setting of the film fitted in well with the horror genre
-the layout of credits at the beginning were good, didnt go on for to long
Weaknesses:
-the font of credits and titles was too blocky and didnt relate to the genre
-it came across as more like a film trailer rather than film opening and the narrative was left closed.
Student Film 2
Strengths:
-the music and titles related to the horror genre.
-effective editing techniques such as the transitions
-even though there was a lack of continuity, the storyline was understood and everything linked in well.
Weaknesses:
-the filming was more like a trailer than opening to a film and the narrative was closed.
-the introduction and titling took up too much time
Student Film 3
Strengths:
-this film was open narrative with a clear opening (not like a trailer)
Weaknesses:
-doesnt portray the genre as well
-the 'bad apple productions' title does not fit in with the film or the genre as it looked too computer generated.
-didnt erase editing errors such as smiling and movement.
This enabled us to see what and what not to do when creating our film opening and improve upon these weaknesses in order to create a stronger film opening without the weaker aspects. We must make sure that our film opening is an open narrative so it does not look too much like a trailer and make sure that the atmosphere, titles and music all fit in with our desired genre.
Student Film 1
Strengths:
-the music and setting of the film fitted in well with the horror genre
-the layout of credits at the beginning were good, didnt go on for to long
Weaknesses:
-the font of credits and titles was too blocky and didnt relate to the genre
-it came across as more like a film trailer rather than film opening and the narrative was left closed.
Student Film 2
Strengths:
-the music and titles related to the horror genre.
-effective editing techniques such as the transitions
-even though there was a lack of continuity, the storyline was understood and everything linked in well.
Weaknesses:
-the filming was more like a trailer than opening to a film and the narrative was closed.
-the introduction and titling took up too much time
Student Film 3
Strengths:
-this film was open narrative with a clear opening (not like a trailer)
Weaknesses:
-doesnt portray the genre as well
-the 'bad apple productions' title does not fit in with the film or the genre as it looked too computer generated.
-didnt erase editing errors such as smiling and movement.
This enabled us to see what and what not to do when creating our film opening and improve upon these weaknesses in order to create a stronger film opening without the weaker aspects. We must make sure that our film opening is an open narrative so it does not look too much like a trailer and make sure that the atmosphere, titles and music all fit in with our desired genre.
Tuesday 1 February 2011
Further Research into the Psychological Thriller Genre and Film Openings
Psychological thriller is a specific sub-genre of the broad ranged thriller and horror genres. However, it often incorporates elements from the mystery and drama genre, in addition to the typical traits of the thriller genre.
A psychological thriller movie is one that deals with suspense by getting into your mind. Instead of just being about blood and gore, the plot focuses on how the mind can be disturbed and horrified. These psychological suspense movies may have lots of action and some blood, but the main intent is the element of the psyche.
General trends have appeared throughout the narratives. Some of these consistent themes include:
Reality – The quality of being real. Characters often try to determine what is true and what is not within the narrative.
Perception – A person's own interpretation of the world around him/her through his/her senses. Often characters misperceive the world around them, or their perceptions are altered by outside factors within the narrative.
Mind – The human consciousness; the location for personality, thought, reason, memory, intelligence and emotion. The mind is often used as a location for narrative conflict, where characters battle their own minds to reach a new level of understanding or perception.
Existence/Purpose – The object for which something exists; an aim or a goal humans strive towards to understand their reason for existence. Characters often try to discover what their purpose is in their lives and the narrative's conflict often is a way for the characters to discover this purpose.
Identity – The definition of one's self. Characters often are confused about or doubt who they are and try to discover their true identity.
Death – The end of life. Characters either fear or have a fascination with death.
Techniques within psychological thrillers
Stream of consciousness – a literary technique which seeks to describe an individual's point of view by giving the written equivalent of the character's thought processes. In psychological thrillers, the narrative tries to manifest the character's psyche through word usage, descriptions, or visuals.
First-person narrative – a literary technique in which the story is narrated by one or more of the characters, who explicitly refers to him or herself in the first person, that is, "I". This direct involvement that the characters have with the story in turn makes the reader more involved with the characters themselves, and thus able to understand the mechanics of the characters' minds. This technique is often paired with the concept of the unreliable narrator.
Back-story – the history behind the situation extant at the start of the main story. This deepens the psychological aspect of the story since the reader is able to more fully understand the character; more specifically, what the character's motivations are and how his past has shaped his current cognitive perceptions.
Top 10 Thrillers - IMDb
1) I Am Number Four (2011)
2) Unknown (2011)
3) The Next Three Days (2010)
4) Black Swan (2010)
5) 127 Hours (2010)
6) Drive Angry 3D (2011)
7) The Mechanic (2011)
8) Sanctum (2011)
9) Inception (2010)
10) The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
Film Openings Include:
-Details of cast and crew
-Film title
-Introduction to character or character type
-Indication of place and historical period
-Information regarding mood and tone
-Introduction to signature theme tune
-Information about genre
-Questions that the viewer finds intriguing
-Patterns and tyes of editing
-Mise en scene and cinematography
A psychological thriller movie is one that deals with suspense by getting into your mind. Instead of just being about blood and gore, the plot focuses on how the mind can be disturbed and horrified. These psychological suspense movies may have lots of action and some blood, but the main intent is the element of the psyche.
General trends have appeared throughout the narratives. Some of these consistent themes include:
Reality – The quality of being real. Characters often try to determine what is true and what is not within the narrative.
Perception – A person's own interpretation of the world around him/her through his/her senses. Often characters misperceive the world around them, or their perceptions are altered by outside factors within the narrative.
Mind – The human consciousness; the location for personality, thought, reason, memory, intelligence and emotion. The mind is often used as a location for narrative conflict, where characters battle their own minds to reach a new level of understanding or perception.
Existence/Purpose – The object for which something exists; an aim or a goal humans strive towards to understand their reason for existence. Characters often try to discover what their purpose is in their lives and the narrative's conflict often is a way for the characters to discover this purpose.
Identity – The definition of one's self. Characters often are confused about or doubt who they are and try to discover their true identity.
Death – The end of life. Characters either fear or have a fascination with death.
Techniques within psychological thrillers
Stream of consciousness – a literary technique which seeks to describe an individual's point of view by giving the written equivalent of the character's thought processes. In psychological thrillers, the narrative tries to manifest the character's psyche through word usage, descriptions, or visuals.
First-person narrative – a literary technique in which the story is narrated by one or more of the characters, who explicitly refers to him or herself in the first person, that is, "I". This direct involvement that the characters have with the story in turn makes the reader more involved with the characters themselves, and thus able to understand the mechanics of the characters' minds. This technique is often paired with the concept of the unreliable narrator.
Back-story – the history behind the situation extant at the start of the main story. This deepens the psychological aspect of the story since the reader is able to more fully understand the character; more specifically, what the character's motivations are and how his past has shaped his current cognitive perceptions.
Top 10 Thrillers - IMDb
1) I Am Number Four (2011)
2) Unknown (2011)
3) The Next Three Days (2010)
4) Black Swan (2010)
5) 127 Hours (2010)
6) Drive Angry 3D (2011)
7) The Mechanic (2011)
8) Sanctum (2011)
9) Inception (2010)
10) The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
Film Openings Include:
-Details of cast and crew
-Film title
-Introduction to character or character type
-Indication of place and historical period
-Information regarding mood and tone
-Introduction to signature theme tune
-Information about genre
-Questions that the viewer finds intriguing
-Patterns and tyes of editing
-Mise en scene and cinematography
Monday 31 January 2011
Psychological Thriller Openings
Se7en(1995)
Contrasting colours
The Usual Suspects (1995)
Narrative:
Open narrative
Introducing Actors (box office appeal)
Holds interest
Genre:
Psychological Thriller
Drama
Character:
Main Character
Unknown
Appears to be a villain
Atmosphere:
Mysterious
Spooky
Dull
Themes:
Death/Threat
Danger
Mind
Setting:
Interior (house)
Dismal
Sound:
Sharp
Tense
Titles:
Introduces actors
Box office appeal
Handwritten as if from a blackboard with chalkContrasting colours
The Usual Suspects (1995)
Narrative:
Open narrative
See how the story develops
Genre:
Psychological Thriller
Action
Action
Character:
Main Character (man) - uknown villain
Another man
Dead body
Another man
Dead body
Atmosphere:
Heated
Mysterious
Themes:
Death/Threat
Suspicion
Setting:
Warehouse still, exterior setting
Office
Office
Sound:
Tense
Dialogue
Dialogue
Titles:
N/A
When a Stranger Calls (2006) - up to 2 minutesNarrative:
Open narrative
Holds interest
Genre:
Psychological Thriller
Horror
Character:
Villain - on the phone - unknown
Victim - on the other end of the phone - unknown
Mother
Victim - on the other end of the phone - unknown
Mother
Atmosphere:
Tense
Chilling
Themes:
Tense
Chilling
Themes:
Death/Threat
Danger
Perception
Setting:
Exterior
House
Fairground
Sound:
Backing of relevant sound
Heavy breathing
Dialogue (terror)
Titles:
Screen Gems
Introduces actors
Introduces actors
Box office appeal
Clear writing, but suspicious (chilling)
Clear writing, but suspicious (chilling)
Sunday 30 January 2011
Research into Audience
To ensure our film the best possible success, I researched carefully into the audience that would be viewing our piece looking at demographic groupings, certification and audience theories in order to be able to create a target audience suitable for our genre.
There are 2 types of audience, mass and niche.
A mass audience is a large, broad audience group with a range of interest enjoying the mainstream films and media texts.
A niche audience is a closely defined audience with a particular and specific interest, being a much smaller and limited audience.
For this reason we have chosen to aim our film at a mass audience and make our film mainstream as this would create a bigger success for our film.Institutions consider audience in catergorised groups better known as the demographic groups.
These groups range from A-E and each group highlights a different audience member.
A-top management, bankers, lawyers, doctors etc.
B-middle management, teachers, many 'creatives'C1-office supervisors, junior managers, nurses, specialist clerical staff etc.
C2-skilled workers, tradesperson (white collar workers)
D-semi-skilled and unskilled manual workers (blue collar workers)
E-unemployed, students, pensioners, casual workers.After looking into similar products, i found that most psychological thrillers were given ratings of 15 and 18 due to the horror conveyed within the genre. Black Swan (2010) was certified as a 15 film by the BBFC, British Board of Film Classification who are a self regulatory body made up of film industry representatives.
The obligations prevent material of the film breaking the law and protecting the audience from items that may cause harm including the language used.
From this we have decided to ceritfy our film as a 15 also as the horror in our film may be a mild threat and there may be frequent use of bad language within our film but our film will not be given an 18 rating as there will not be a lot of sexual activity portrayed within the storyline and any violence used will not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury.
Looking at Genre
We were given a task to look at film openings from different genres and note and analyse how genre was included and reflected upon in opening sequences to films.
I looked at Forrest Gump (1994)(Drama/Romance), WALL-E (2008)(Adventure/Animation/Family), The Holiday (2006)(Comedy/Romance), Saving Private Ryan (Action/Drama/History/War) and Psycho (1998)(Horror/Mystery/Thriller)
Forrest Gump(1994)
At the very beginning of this opening, we are introduced to paramount pictures as the institutional company that presents the fil. The opening has an open narrative and gives the audience and idea of how the film will develop. The main part of the opening shows a feather falling through the city which does not show much relevance to the Drama side of the genre but could suggest peace which would junxtaposition the war and action themes shown in the film. The feather could symbolise romance as it is delicate, precious and light which you could associate with a romantic encounter.
The exterior setting shows scenery of the southern state of America in which the film is set besides the war fronts and the neautral lighting can suggest the light and airy film given through the romance theme and genre.
The music starts off light and dreamy also and picks up as the feather gets gradually nearer to the ground. This reflects both aspects of genre as it begins to show romance and picks up to give a sense of drama and that some action is going to develop within the film. The introduction gives titles of actors which increases box office appeal and the themes and atmosphere shown reflect the genre well.
WALL-E(2008)
This Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Pictures film imediately highlights the family aspect of genre as these institutions are seen as family orientated companies producing many family films.
The beginning lettering styles we are introduced to and the outer space location higlights he sci-fi genre and also a sense of adventure in the way in which the opening is portrayed.
The opening slowly shows different perspectives of the outer space atmosphere and the landscaping gives a sense of adventure to the audience as it is as if they are proceeding onto an adventure with the camera. The setting then moves on to a blank, sandy landscape which is light and developing, conveying a different genre of mystery holding the audiences attention and making them want to find out more.
The sound suggests animation with voicing music which appears upbeat and happy portraying a family friendly film. The music picks up which backs the adventure genre in the film and the open narrative creates the atmosphere for the genre to develop further as the film progresses.
The Holiday(2006)
This Universal pictures and Columbia pictures collaboration introduces the institutions at the beginning of the opening.
The music we are introduced to at the very beginning is a mellow sound which is resembling an orchestra ensemble (piano). This is representative of the romance genre and connotes passion within the piece.
The opening scenery is light and peaceful and fits in with the backing, diegetic sound. Along with this, the use of characters kissing immediately highlights romance.
The comedy aspect in the genre is not presented at this time in the opening as it mainly focuses on the romance.
Actors and casting is then introduced into the opening of the film which greatly increases box office appeal with Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet and Jack Black. Well known, high class actors are seen to increase box office appeal massively and target and appeal to a wider audience.
The piece then transfers to an everyday setting and a monolgue about love from the main actor with references to Shakespeare (historical). This highlights the romance as Shakespeare was a writer and poet which could connote love and romance conveying the themes and genre. This also creates a passionate atmosphere.
The music carrys on throughout the entire opening and picks up to increase intensity and therefore increase the passion. This could also connote a funny twist within the piece clearly suggesting the comical genre of the film. The use of images such as wedding pictures are also incorporated within this opening to convey the love themes and the romance genre.
The monologue concludes and produces an open narrative so the audience is aware and can see how the story of love will develop with a slight anti-romance twist and this can also show how the genre of romance will develop, at the same time highlighting comedy as it is shown that somethign will go wrong possibly in a comical way.
Saving Private Ryan(1998) - up to 2 minutes 30 seconds
'Saving Private Ryan' (1998) conveys it's genre in the opening extremely well as you are able to see all aspects of the genre clearly. The opening fades in and begins with waves crashing around sharp boulards in the sea. This immediately gives a harsh feel and connotes the action themes. The dark setting gives a gloomy feel and can be used to show the war genre as war is seen as an unpleasant thing like the gloomy setting.
'JUNE 6 1994' and 'DOG GREEN SECTOR, OMAHA BEACH' shows the location and date highlighting the historical genre conveyed in the film and also suggests war as the dates can be seen as war dates.
We are then assured of the war and action genres as we see a war boat and soldiers in battle and preparing to fight. The atmosphere is silent and tense and this increases the drama aspect of genre within the piece. The pace picks up and the action increases as they get into battle, the orders, gunshots and views of blood all suggest war and highlight the action theme which is carried throughout the opening. The colour red (of the blood) connotes war and fits in with the genre of the film.
The bad weather used in the opening with the rain and dark clouds connotes and gloomy and unpleasant setting and world highlighting that something bad will happen and therefore conveying the gnere.
It is an open narrative and allows the audience to develop on what is going to happen.
Psycho(1998)
The opening credits begin with a green screen and black lines begin to develop across the screen. At this stage it seems irrelevant and therfore adds to the mystery of the opening and conveys the mysterious genre. Universal pictures and imagine entertainment are introduced to the audience.
The music is harsh and jumpy which immediately conveys the horror genre as it is used to make the audience feel a sense of horror. The titling 'PSYCHO' in capitals also emphasises the harshness and therfore increases the horror.
The opening introduces us to the characters and casting increasing box office appeal as it widens audience appeal. The music takes a mysteious twist and it makes viwers unaware of what is likely to happen which holds the audiences attention whilst the open narrative still allows the story to develop with the sense of horro and mystery being conveyed.
This has helped me to develop a sense of how genre is conveyed in an opening sequence and shows me that it is important that the audience are entertained and the genre is conveyed in a way that is not too complicated in order to create a successful, easy to follow opening with signs and meanings behind the specific genre. This task also allowed me to gain an insight into which genre to choose for the final film opening.
I looked at Forrest Gump (1994)(Drama/Romance), WALL-E (2008)(Adventure/Animation/Family), The Holiday (2006)(Comedy/Romance), Saving Private Ryan (Action/Drama/History/War) and Psycho (1998)(Horror/Mystery/Thriller)
Forrest Gump(1994)
At the very beginning of this opening, we are introduced to paramount pictures as the institutional company that presents the fil. The opening has an open narrative and gives the audience and idea of how the film will develop. The main part of the opening shows a feather falling through the city which does not show much relevance to the Drama side of the genre but could suggest peace which would junxtaposition the war and action themes shown in the film. The feather could symbolise romance as it is delicate, precious and light which you could associate with a romantic encounter.
The exterior setting shows scenery of the southern state of America in which the film is set besides the war fronts and the neautral lighting can suggest the light and airy film given through the romance theme and genre.
The music starts off light and dreamy also and picks up as the feather gets gradually nearer to the ground. This reflects both aspects of genre as it begins to show romance and picks up to give a sense of drama and that some action is going to develop within the film. The introduction gives titles of actors which increases box office appeal and the themes and atmosphere shown reflect the genre well.
WALL-E(2008)
This Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Pictures film imediately highlights the family aspect of genre as these institutions are seen as family orientated companies producing many family films.
The beginning lettering styles we are introduced to and the outer space location higlights he sci-fi genre and also a sense of adventure in the way in which the opening is portrayed.
The opening slowly shows different perspectives of the outer space atmosphere and the landscaping gives a sense of adventure to the audience as it is as if they are proceeding onto an adventure with the camera. The setting then moves on to a blank, sandy landscape which is light and developing, conveying a different genre of mystery holding the audiences attention and making them want to find out more.
The sound suggests animation with voicing music which appears upbeat and happy portraying a family friendly film. The music picks up which backs the adventure genre in the film and the open narrative creates the atmosphere for the genre to develop further as the film progresses.
The Holiday(2006)
This Universal pictures and Columbia pictures collaboration introduces the institutions at the beginning of the opening.
The music we are introduced to at the very beginning is a mellow sound which is resembling an orchestra ensemble (piano). This is representative of the romance genre and connotes passion within the piece.
The opening scenery is light and peaceful and fits in with the backing, diegetic sound. Along with this, the use of characters kissing immediately highlights romance.
The comedy aspect in the genre is not presented at this time in the opening as it mainly focuses on the romance.
Actors and casting is then introduced into the opening of the film which greatly increases box office appeal with Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet and Jack Black. Well known, high class actors are seen to increase box office appeal massively and target and appeal to a wider audience.
The piece then transfers to an everyday setting and a monolgue about love from the main actor with references to Shakespeare (historical). This highlights the romance as Shakespeare was a writer and poet which could connote love and romance conveying the themes and genre. This also creates a passionate atmosphere.
The music carrys on throughout the entire opening and picks up to increase intensity and therefore increase the passion. This could also connote a funny twist within the piece clearly suggesting the comical genre of the film. The use of images such as wedding pictures are also incorporated within this opening to convey the love themes and the romance genre.
The monologue concludes and produces an open narrative so the audience is aware and can see how the story of love will develop with a slight anti-romance twist and this can also show how the genre of romance will develop, at the same time highlighting comedy as it is shown that somethign will go wrong possibly in a comical way.
Saving Private Ryan(1998) - up to 2 minutes 30 seconds
'Saving Private Ryan' (1998) conveys it's genre in the opening extremely well as you are able to see all aspects of the genre clearly. The opening fades in and begins with waves crashing around sharp boulards in the sea. This immediately gives a harsh feel and connotes the action themes. The dark setting gives a gloomy feel and can be used to show the war genre as war is seen as an unpleasant thing like the gloomy setting.
'JUNE 6 1994' and 'DOG GREEN SECTOR, OMAHA BEACH' shows the location and date highlighting the historical genre conveyed in the film and also suggests war as the dates can be seen as war dates.
We are then assured of the war and action genres as we see a war boat and soldiers in battle and preparing to fight. The atmosphere is silent and tense and this increases the drama aspect of genre within the piece. The pace picks up and the action increases as they get into battle, the orders, gunshots and views of blood all suggest war and highlight the action theme which is carried throughout the opening. The colour red (of the blood) connotes war and fits in with the genre of the film.
The bad weather used in the opening with the rain and dark clouds connotes and gloomy and unpleasant setting and world highlighting that something bad will happen and therefore conveying the gnere.
It is an open narrative and allows the audience to develop on what is going to happen.
Psycho(1998)
The opening credits begin with a green screen and black lines begin to develop across the screen. At this stage it seems irrelevant and therfore adds to the mystery of the opening and conveys the mysterious genre. Universal pictures and imagine entertainment are introduced to the audience.
The music is harsh and jumpy which immediately conveys the horror genre as it is used to make the audience feel a sense of horror. The titling 'PSYCHO' in capitals also emphasises the harshness and therfore increases the horror.
The opening introduces us to the characters and casting increasing box office appeal as it widens audience appeal. The music takes a mysteious twist and it makes viwers unaware of what is likely to happen which holds the audiences attention whilst the open narrative still allows the story to develop with the sense of horro and mystery being conveyed.
This has helped me to develop a sense of how genre is conveyed in an opening sequence and shows me that it is important that the audience are entertained and the genre is conveyed in a way that is not too complicated in order to create a successful, easy to follow opening with signs and meanings behind the specific genre. This task also allowed me to gain an insight into which genre to choose for the final film opening.
Monday 17 January 2011
Analysing Film Openings
Resevoir Dogs:
Narrative:
Open narrative
Introducing Characters
Suggesting the characters are important
Suggesting the characters are proffessional
Genre:
Action
Gangster
Gangs
Character:
Eight men
Resevior dogs
Introduced with text
Atmosphere:
Masculine
Rough
Lively
Themes:
Gangster
Black tie
Boy group
Setting:
Exterior
Car Park
Street
Sound:
Rock
Gives idead of a solid group
Upbeat/ relaxed
Titles:
Introduces actors
Box office appeal
Strong coloured which stands out to audience
The opening to resevoir dogs shows an open narrative which introduces us to the characters and suggests they are off to fulfill an important task. This makes the audience want to carry on watching and find out where they are going. The way they are dressed (in suits and black ties) and how they are acting backs up the action and gangster genre as they are portrayed to the audience as gangsters and potential trouble-makers.
The men are dressed in suits and shades which also gives a sense of mystery. This would also intrigue the audience and make them want to see what happens. The titles and introduction to the actors boosts box office appeal.
The sound and atmosphere both imply a masculine, gangster opening with a lively, rock music and rough atmosphere. However the lively music could suggest juxtaposition as it is contrasting to what we see on the screen.
This all symbolises and reflects the aspects of the opening and when creating our own opening we can take into account strengths and weaknesses and certain aspects to include.
Superman returns:
Narrative:
Open narrative
Genre:
Action
Atmosphere:
Masculine
Lively
Themes:
Superhero
Comics
Setting:
Exterior
Universe
Sound:
Superhero theme tune
Upbeat
Picks up and getts faster and more intense
Titles:
Introduces actors
Box office appeal
Strong coloured on strong background
Matches the out of space theme.
The opening to Superman returns is fairly basic. It shows and open narrative with titles to introduce the audience to the actors in the film.
There are no characters featured in the oepning and the titles run all the way through.
From the opening we can conclude an action genre and the masculine lively atmosphere fits in with this genre well.
The setting is an exterior setting which goes through the universe and this is used to enhance the action of the film with the use of an intense, upbeat music (superman theme) which all ties in to the title of the film and therefore supporting the genre and themes.
The titles with the actors name increases box office appeal.
Casino Royale Opening
Genre:
Spy- action thriller
Spy- action thriller
Narrative:
Gambling
Violence
Love
Character:
James bond / Daniel Craig
Atmosphere:
Sneaky
Suspicious
Violence
Mystery
Themes:
Aces
Gambling
Guns
Fighting
Love
Mystery
Setting:
Casino- cards and stereotypical surroundings.
Sound:
Soundtrack- performed by Chris Cornell
Titles:
White
Plain
Standout
Singular
Casino Royale Trailer
Genre:
Spy-action
Spy-action
Narrative:
Killing
Betrayal
Love
Redemption
Character:
James bond – spy, cold hearted and killer.
Atmosphere:
Spy
Tension
Upbeat
Fast
Themes:
Action
Spy
Love
Betrayal
Survival
Setting:
Jungle
Casino
Hotel
Sea
Sound:
Theme tune throughout creates tension and familiarity.
Title:
Stands out
Uses logo in title
White on dark background stands out
Grabs attention
Creates familiarity with brand products
Differences between a film trailer and opening:
Trailers:
-gives information and details of the film
-include montages (fragmented narrative), giving the audience an outline of the plot
-tend to fade to black several times
-include the title at the end of the trailer
-have a tag line
-include the institution logos at the start
-includes different settings and atmospheres to show the storyline
Openings:
-list important members of the cast and crew at the start or throughout the opening
-include the title at the start of the film
-generally introduce the characters and setting
-set a mood or tone and highlight the genre
-create questions amongst the audience
-demonstrate the patterns/types of editing that will be used in the film
Sunday 16 January 2011
Initial Notes
The filming.
- hold shot steady
- framing a shot
- using a variety of shot distances
- shooting material appropriate
- selecting mise en scene
Opening.
- details of cast and crew and institution producing the film
- films title
- intro to character or character type
- indication of place/setting
- info on mood and tone
- info on signature theme tune
- info on genre
Genre
Narrative
Character
Atmosphere
Themes
Setting
Sound
Titles
Catch me if you can:
Genre:
-Drama
-Action
-Chase
Character:
Detective
Criminal
Pointed out by an arrow
Atmosphere:
Suspicious
Setting:
Hospital
Airport
America shown through the use of yellow cabs.
Sound:
Tension
1960's feel
Narrative:
Tells the storyline
Use of iconography
Hiding and Chasing
Title:
Title near the beginning of the opening
The opening to 'catch me if you can' uses a background music which immediately creates tension and portrays the chase/action genre. This holds the audiences attention as it would make them want to find out more.
Throughout the opening we are introduced to the characters through a cartoon sense and the use of titles shows the actors/directors/producers.
The storyline is shown through the opening giving an assumption to the audience of what is expected and also reflecting the chase theme and suspicious atmosphere.
My Best Friends Wedding.
Genre:
Romantic Comedy
The colour pink
Character:
Bride
Bridesmaids
Groom
Atmosphere:
Light
Happy
Feminine
Musical
Themes:
Love
Happiness
Wedding
Setting:
Studio (not appropriate for a church)
Wedding Preparations
Sound:
The music giving instruction on how to treat a man
Narrative:
Something is going to go wrong.
Wedding
Friends
Titles:
Handwritten font (maybe like an invitation)
Julia Roberts (Box Office Appeal)
The opening to 'my best friends wedding' features an upbeat/happy music which reflects the genre and the wording to the song also highlights the theme of love.
We are introduced to the main characters and the titles allow us to see the actors in the piece. The use of Julia Roberts would create box office appeal as she is a big star and people would like to see films starring her so this would increase the viewers.
The colour pink is used throughout the opening and this highlights the romantic genre and the love and happiness themes which are to feature in the film.
The titles appear to be of a handwritten style which also reflects in the genre and wedding narrative as it is shown as an invitation.
The narrative could also suggest something is about to go wrong.
- hold shot steady
- framing a shot
- using a variety of shot distances
- shooting material appropriate
- selecting mise en scene
Opening.
- details of cast and crew and institution producing the film
- films title
- intro to character or character type
- indication of place/setting
- info on mood and tone
- info on signature theme tune
- info on genre
Genre
Narrative
Character
Atmosphere
Themes
Setting
Sound
Titles
Catch me if you can:
Genre:
-Drama
-Action
-Chase
Character:
Detective
Criminal
Pointed out by an arrow
Atmosphere:
Suspicious
Setting:
Hospital
Airport
America shown through the use of yellow cabs.
Sound:
Tension
1960's feel
Narrative:
Tells the storyline
Use of iconography
Hiding and Chasing
Title:
Title near the beginning of the opening
The opening to 'catch me if you can' uses a background music which immediately creates tension and portrays the chase/action genre. This holds the audiences attention as it would make them want to find out more.
Throughout the opening we are introduced to the characters through a cartoon sense and the use of titles shows the actors/directors/producers.
The storyline is shown through the opening giving an assumption to the audience of what is expected and also reflecting the chase theme and suspicious atmosphere.
My Best Friends Wedding.
Genre:
Romantic Comedy
The colour pink
Character:
Bride
Bridesmaids
Groom
Atmosphere:
Light
Happy
Feminine
Musical
Themes:
Love
Happiness
Wedding
Setting:
Studio (not appropriate for a church)
Wedding Preparations
Sound:
The music giving instruction on how to treat a man
Narrative:
Something is going to go wrong.
Wedding
Friends
Titles:
Handwritten font (maybe like an invitation)
Julia Roberts (Box Office Appeal)
The opening to 'my best friends wedding' features an upbeat/happy music which reflects the genre and the wording to the song also highlights the theme of love.
We are introduced to the main characters and the titles allow us to see the actors in the piece. The use of Julia Roberts would create box office appeal as she is a big star and people would like to see films starring her so this would increase the viewers.
The colour pink is used throughout the opening and this highlights the romantic genre and the love and happiness themes which are to feature in the film.
The titles appear to be of a handwritten style which also reflects in the genre and wedding narrative as it is shown as an invitation.
The narrative could also suggest something is about to go wrong.
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