Audience and Institution Practice Essay

    "In relation to the media area you have studied (film), discuss the ways audience consumption has changed over time."


     Audience consumption in the area of film has changed drastically over time. Film has been around since the late 1800s, but a lot of what was shot has been lost over time. Because of this, it is truly hard to say how many films were shot during that time and how it was distributed.

    The silent film era is said to have some of the greatest pieces of film of all time. However, similar to what I mentioned before, it is said that up to 80 percent of film spawning from the silent era, has been lost over time. During the silent film era, movie-goers would flock to theaters, similar to how many still enjoy watching movies today. In fact, many theaters still showcase silent films to audiences willing to go. Films by Charlie Chaplin and Mary Pickford were still played in select theaters across the country a few years ago. However, that is becoming less frequent as time passes.

    In the 1970s, VHS tapes were becoming increasingly popular with households across the country. While many still enjoyed going to the theaters to see movies that were being released, VHS tapes were being produced so that families could buy and watch movies in the comfort of their own home.  In my personal experience, my grandmother still has VHS tapes of my mom’s favorite Disney movies that she watched as a kid. Believe it or not, as VHS tapes became less popular, the value of them went up. Some tapes go for up to one thousand dollars to this day. 

    By the ’90s, DVD’s were coming into play. Similar to VHS tapes, DVD’s made it so that people could buy the movies they watched after they weren’t in theaters anymore. Many of the movies that I researched in depth were released on DVD to the public. To date, some of the highest-grossing DVD’s to be released include Frozen and Avatar. DVD’s can still be found in many households, but aren’t as popular anymore. 

    Today, streaming services like Netflix and Hulu have their own “Originals.” These are films and shows that are released straight to these sites for audience consumption. Additionally, one may still find movies like Gone With the Wind or the original Cinderella on streaming services like Amazon Prime and Disney Plus. Streaming on phones, tablets, and televisions make movie-going much easier for the common Joe. 

    Media consumption for film has changed a lot over the last century, and it is sure to continue to become more and more simple the further into the future we go. Distribution of film is becoming almost obsolete as streaming services can simply upload film straight to their sites, within an hour or two. It is mind-blowing wondering how film and media, in general, will be consumed ten, twenty, even one-hundred years from now. 

Extract Essay

    The extract I watched was a clip from the show “24.” It seems to me as the director wanted to make it a drama, thriller fitted show. Many factors go into my theory as to why I believe this show is that genre. Moreover, considering it seems to follow a group of detectives or police officers, it makes sense that it would be a thriller or drama.

    The scene opens up to a woman sitting in what looks to be an interrogation room. The lighting is dim, almost cold. This was a great choice by the director as it creates an eerie, dramatic feel right at the start. The woman looks past the camera and a door is shown in the next shot. This is a subtle, yet clever use of the eye-line match shot. A man then walks in without saying a word. The camera switches back over to show the woman as it zooms in on her face. This was most likely used to show her expression to the man, looking unfazed, like someone who is attempting to hide something. 

    The man shuts the door and begins walking over to the table that the woman is sitting at. The man walks into a close-up shot, which was probably used to build tension. As he slides a few pieces of paper across the table a pan occurs. This pan might have been used to show the sheer proximity between the characters, possibly foreshadowing later action. The shot then cuts to a group of people watching the two on a tv, over a surveillance camera that was shown in an earlier shot. Again, this was foreshadowing later events between the man and women in the room. 

    The women finally begin to speak. The dialogue helps heighten the tension within the scene, especially because the audience waited for about 40 seconds before any speaking began. Shot reverse shots are used to show the quick responses between the characters. Additionally, the use of jump cuts is to speed up the scene and add even more tension between characters. As the scene comes to an end, but not without tension at its greatest, a split-screen appears. The director might have chosen this to show the real-time action occurring as the rest of the detectives rush into the interrogation room. As the man is pulled off of the women, the scene fades to black. 

    I believe the director wanted this to be a very dramatic scene in this episode, possibly one of the more important ones. As this is only a couple of scenes from this show, it is hard to determine how the rest of the show plays out. However, from this extract, I can tell that this is a drama, thriller that gets very intense at moments. 

Filming Blog-- Continuation

    This filming process took place about a week before the peer review. I decided I needed more footage for my film, as the entire project needed to be 2 minutes long. Therefore, I filmed with my costar. We went back to the park that we originally shot a scene at. Due to strong winds, I decided I should get plenty of film, as I could choose what footage to use during the editing process. The first time we filmed there, winds were strong and the wind made it so dialogue could not be heard in certain scenes. Additionally, I asked that we film a couple scenes towards the end of the movie at my supporting actors house, as this is originally where we planned on filming some of the scenes. These scenes were easy to film, as they took place inside. The house was quiet and optimal for shooting. The picture above shows us during the filming process at his house. 

    After we filmed these scenes, I decided to film some establishing shots of the house, as well as the park nearby. These were necessary to my final cut of the film, however, they were shot for my use during the editing process. Once these were filmed, I went back to my house. I needed to film the first scene in the opening sequence. This scene is important, as it sets the tone for the rest of the film. The first scene only involved me, so setting up the tripod and camera was a little difficult. However, I was able to get my brother to actually help me in setting up everything. Once that scene was filmed, I needed to wait until nightfall to shoot the last few scenes. This day of filming was definitely successful, to say the least. I decided my next step was to begin editing these scenes. That puts me to the last blog, which explains the editing process. 

Editing Blog- Continuation

    This is a continuation of the journey of my final project. Today I continued editing my film, and everything went well for the most part. I was able to get about half of my film almost completely edited. Following the peer review of my film, I know that I still need to reshoot a couple scenes. Also, much more editing is needed until I can turn my final in. While I was editing, I realize that there are a few outside shots where the wind is pretty loud, so I may need to reshoot those scenes. I was able to, however, edit most of the scenes that took place either inside or didn't have too much diegetic sound. One thing I began doing was adding titles to my film. These are important as they are essential to every title sequence of a film. I needed to make the decision in which fonts to use for each corresponding title. 

    For example, I used one font for the actors' names, and I used a different font for the title of the movie. This gives off a greater significance to the name of the movie, as it is the of the most important aspects of the title sequence. In addition to this, I also was able to add music to my film. This is vital to my opening sequence as it sets the tone for the rest of the film. I chose a spooky soundtrack to set an ominous, creepy feel to the movie. Plus, the opening sequence prepares the audience for the film, so everything about the title sequence is vital. Alongside adding music and preparing titles, I also cut more clips. I did this during the beginning of the editing process, but cutting clips are becoming an everyday process at this point. The next thing I need to work on for the editing is fading clips into each other. The flow of the opening sequence is important as it must be quick, but also efficient. 

Peer Review Blog

    This is my blog for the peer review that we conducted for the final project. I was assigned a group’s film to review, and a separate group was assigned to watch mine. This was an important project, as it helped us all gain insight to how close we are to finishing our projects. Moreover, the reviewing from outside individuals was good as it helped us know what we need to fix and tweak for our final product. I will start by saying that I really liked how the group’s video that I reviewed turned out so far. The lighting was very good throughout their film opening. They were able to properly use bright lighting, which played a huge effect on their project. Additionally, I liked the groups’ transitions between shots. They made the film flow smoothly, using seamless transitions. So far, the group has done a great job and I think their slightly revised project will be very successful.

    Looking at the negatives of this groups’ work, it was honestly hard to find specific examples. Generally, they project didn’t seem to have to many mistakes. However, their video is only about one minute and 20 seconds. Since the final must be closer to two minutes long, one suggestion I made for their video was to add to it, and make it closer to that two minute mark. Additionally, I think the group should work to add more to the story. From what I watched, I, as an audience couldn’t really pin point the exact story of the film. They should work together to make the plot a little more obvious. In fact, they could even change some of the font for the text a little to make it fit the genre better. Finally, I think the group should work to include more of the additional group mates. Their film should include more than just one of the students. All in all, their project was pretty solid, but they do need to fix a few minor errors.

Editing Blog: The Beginning of the End

    Following my first weekend of filming, I decided I could edit the scenes I filmed. Because I couldn't get any shots with my co-star, I could only edit the scenes that didn't have him in them. This proved to be somewhat difficult, as a lot of my scenes either cut to him or are shot-reverse shots, etc. However, I was able to edit some minor changes to the scenes without him present. For example, I was able to cut scenes and begin the fading process or the scenes I am into the ones that will cut to him. Additionally, I was able to clean up the choppiness of a couple scenes that I filmed. Also, I filmed a couple shots that included my mom. For these, I was able to edit them so they fit more smoothly into the project. To be honest, I wasn't able to do a whole lot of editing, as, like I said before, I couldn't film too much as my supporting actor wasn't available to film over the weekend. However, I plan to get the rest of my filming down towards the end of this week, and into the weekend.

    In addition to shortening and fading a couple of my shots, I made a few other adjustments to my project. I browsed the internet for some copyright-free music to use in the background of my opening sequence. I was searching mainly for a slow-building, ominous type score to use as the opening sequence commences. This follows the standard conventions of thriller/horror movies, as I prepare the audience for a spooky feeling. Once I found a track that I believed would work well with my production, I imported it into the editing software. From there, I placed it into the corresponding track position and readied it for when I further my editing process. I will edit the music so it plays a bit louder at the beginning of the opening sequence and will become quieter as the characters speak. My goal is to make the scenes flow into each other, creating a very smooth looking opening sequence. Currently, without the scenes involving my supporting actor, the project is only about 45 seconds, so I will need to make sure I have another minute and 15 seconds of footage for my film. Once I get the final shots filmed, I will be able to import them and finish editing my project!

Filming Blog: First Weekend of Filming

    Finally, after a weekend of non-responsive weather and overtime at my job, I was able to begin filming. I checked out a camera on Friday and as soon as I got home from practice after school, I began filming. The only scenes I would be able to film over the weekend would be the ones that don't involve my co-star. This is because he is working all weekend and only gets off late at night. However, he doesn't work during the week, so my plan is to check a camera out in the middle of the week and film then. Once I got home, I set up my camera on the tripod and shot the opening scene, of my final. This scene is supposed to set the mood for the rest of the project. Therefore, I made sure to take a couple shots of this even though it was a pretty simple scene. Lighting was pretty nice, as I filmed around 4pm eastern time zone, which created a bright hue inside my room. I made sure to review the footage after they were filmed.

    After I filmed a couple preliminary shots, I decided that I would continue the next day. The following day, Saturday, I worked until 3pm, so once I clocked out, I headed straight home. Once I arrived home, I showered and changed into "costume" for my second day of filming. Again, my supporting role was not available that day, so I would continue with scenes that only included me. There were a few shots that included my mom, as she plays my mother in the film as well, so I was able to film those shots too. Considering the project can only be two minutes, I have a feeling the editing process will be difficult. I will need to make sure my film fits the given time, and if it doesn't, that is when I will need to conduct re-shoots. The storyboard has been really helpful in the filming process, as I have, on multiple occasions, looked back at it to make sure I have been following what I envisioned. All in all, I was able to get a good chunk of filming out in just this first weekend. Now, I just need to make sure I can finish gathering and filming my other scenes, with my supporting actor. 

Filming Blog- (Wasn't Able to Film)

    On Thursday, February 13th, I was finished with my storyboard and was technically ready to begin filming. My plan was to begin my filming process over the long weekend that we had. However, I ran into a few obstacles that inhibited my chances to film. My plan was to begin filming on Saturday, after work. I usually get off of work around 5 pm, therefore I could still get many opening shots filmed. So, I went to work, like normal, and planned to head straight home after work to begin filming. However, instead of clocking out of work at my normal 5 pm time, I was told that I needed to stay a couple more hours. Additionally, once I did manage to get out of work, it was raining heavily in the area near my house. This obstructed my filming plan by a day, as for one, I needed to film outside, without rain. Also, a lot of my shots do take place during the daytime, and by the time I was actually in the correct wardrobe and ready to film, it was dark outside. Therefore, I wouldn't have had optimal lighting for my scenes that needed to be filmed.

    On Sunday, February 16th, I planned on finally filming. I did have work again, but I was sure that I would be out of work in an efficient manner and at my normal clock-out time. This did, in fact, happen, but like the previous day, it was pouring rain once I got home from work. I did film a couple of shots inside my house, which take place towards the beginning of the opening sequence. However, I was not able to film any other vital scenes over this first weekend of filming. What this has taught me is that filmmakers and producers do run into obstacles during their work, but they have to adapt and overcome. Although I wasn't able to film a lot of my shots, I did manage to knock out a couple shots. Additionally, this weekend gave me more time to plan on when and how I would shoot future scenes. I plan to film again this week and next weekend as well. Hopefully, the weather can work with me for once and I can successfully shoot a good chunk of my project.

 

Planning Blog: Storyboard

This is my slide presentation for my storyboard for the final project in AICE Media Studies. The storyboard creation process was very fun, but time-consuming at the same point. I spread out the days that I did my storyboard because it took more than a few hours to create. The storyboard is essentially a drawn version of what the shots in the movie will look like. Additionally, the text is included to describe the scenes. Moreover, I described the shots, angles, and movements that will be used for each scene in my production. Although the storyboard doesn't do great justice for what the actual film will look like, it is a good indication of where I am headed in the process of filming. Once this is submitted, I will be able to begin filming my clips. This storyboard will be useful as I will be able to go back to it and see how I broke down each scene to the single shot-by-shot. I am very excited to start filming and I hope that my project continues to run smoothly!

Planning Blog: Title Design

    In this slide presentation, I discuss everything that is needed to be known about the titles I will use in my opening sequence of my film. I hope that I can make the titles seamlessly blend with the shots in the title sequence. Audiences should be able to read who was involved in the production, so I need to make sure that the titles are clear and effective. I will be able to do this by using correct spacing, as well as fonts that go well with my film. Moreover, I decided to use "spooky" fonts, if you will, in my opening sequence to fall in line with common horror/thriller film conventions. 

    As I am limited to three various fonts for the opening sequence, I plan to use one font for the title/position of who was involved, for example, "Directed By." I will use a different font for the actual person who filled that position, like my name. And,  I will use a separate font for the title of the movie, 'Experiment 1217.' I also discuss how titles will appear on-screen once the scenes begin. Finally, I talk about how long each title will appear on the screen; I don't want them to be on-screen for too long as we are only given a two-minute slot for our project. Titles are very crucial to a film, as they give credit to everyone who was involved. Therefore, I want to make the opening sequence as effective, and informative, as it can be! 

Planning Blog: Location, Schedule, Participants, H&S

This slide presentation discusses everything outside of dialogue, shots, angles, etc. Firstly, I explain where I am going to film. For the majority of the opening sequence of my project, I am filming in or outside of two houses. These houses I will be shooting at are my house and my cousins' as he is the second character in my film. Next, I made a preview of my whole schedule, which includes the time frame for shooting and editing. This is essential as it helps me stay on track to finish my project in enough time to submit it. Additionally, I talked about the participants in my film. These were very limited, as I am basically completing this entire project on my own. Other than my cousin, who co-stars in the film, I am directing and producing the film, as well as starring in it. Finally, I reviewed the safety precautions that I will take during the shooting process. As there will most likely be adults on standby, while we are filming, I don't have any worries that anything should go wrong. Plus, I do have the resources to call anyone if needed.

Planning Blog: Sound Script

I created this slide as my "sound script" for my final project/film. Unlike the shooting script I created, this script focusses more on sounds and dialogue within the film. I discuss the diegetic and non-diegetic sounds within the film, such as background noises that will be heard throughout the opening sequence. These include, in my case, birds chirping, doors closing, and footsteps. Sound within a film is as important, if not more important than the actual shots in the film. Especially in horror/thriller movies where the sound is a character on its own, it is used to establish suspense, pace, and action. Within the last minute of my opening sequence, the audience is already catapulted straight into the action of the film. Music plays a huge role, especially towards the end of my opening sequence. Along with the final shot, the music creates a cliffhanger. This will hopefully leave viewers wanting to see the eventual fate of my characters.

Planning Blog: Shooting Script

    This is my shooting script for my final project. Within this slide presentation, I discuss everything that will take place in the film, other than dialogue and sounds. I explain shot by shot angles, movements, etc. This is essential, as this will help me copy exactly what I envision my actual film to look like. I tried to follow the conventions of horror/thriller movies as best as I could, but I wanted to make it original.

    While I created this slide presentation, I learned that the script process is actually much more involved than what I expected. I needed to learn how to break down, not only each scene but each shot as well. I did this by incorporating every angle and movement that would take place during the filming process. My project consists of 11 total scenes, which will vary in length, but I hope to fit it within the allotted 2 minute time period we are given. Unlike many thriller/horror movies, my film jumps into the action pretty quickly, as I place the characters into the main part of the film promptly. 

Title Research: The Conjuring 2

    As a fan of the director, James Wan, and his films, I was very excited to see the second entry of The Conjuring series. The first film was very good and to this day, I still place it in my top 10 horror movies of all time. Both films claim to be based on a true story and for this reason, many people go to see the films and decide whether the story could be real.

    How many titles are displayed during the opening of the sequence to the film?

     In total, the opening sequence consists of 34 titles. These include the director, producers, screenplay, etc. Compared to the previous two title sequences I reviewed, this has more titles.

    What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?

     Although this film has more titles introduced in the opening sequence, the producers used them nicely. As the titles appear on the screen, photos of the family the story is based on appear next to shots in the actual film. I found this to be very creative and exactly why I along with many others enjoy these movies. They do a very good job of almost re-creating the actual events of the story.

    What connotations do the images carry?

     Well, the images make the audience feel that the film is authentic. It shows that the story, which they claim to be real, is that exactly, REAL. The shots of the "possessed" child next to the shot of the actor in the same position are almost jaw-dropping. It shows the audience that the movie will most likely be pretty disturbing and that they should ready themselves.

    How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset?

     Clearly, the horror genre is reinforced, as the title sequence is disturbing and creepy in itself. The photos of the actual events of the storyline appear onscreen, as a slow-building, ominous score plays behind it. The images are very bleak and low contrast, making them look even more realistic.

    How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?

     The title sequence of the film doesn't give away too much of the story. Instead, the audience is left wondering what will happen to the main characters of the story and whether what happens in the story could be true. Additionally, the photos of the actual event next to the stills of the film aren't too much of a spoiler as they are just still shots.

    What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience?

     The film uses a creepy score to go along with the stills of the actual event. The target audience, in this case, would mainly consist of the people who went to see the first film. They were drawn in during the title sequence because of the real images of the case of the Warrens. The audience knows that The Conjuring series is based on a true story going into the viewing of the film, and therefore were more encaptured when they saw the stills displayed with the titles in the opening sequence.

    How has technology been used effectively?

     The title sequence used technology in a number of ways, believe it or not. First, the producers went able to track down real photos of the case that the Warrens were involved in. This in itself is amazing. Additionally, titles during the opening sequence faded-in and out during the sequence. Over the titles appearing a score plays as well. The transitions between photos in the title sequence are very smooth as they almost seamlessly fade into one another.

Title Research: Halloween (2018)

    As a continuation of the original Halloween films, leading actress Jamie Lee Curtis reprises her role as Laurie Strode. As this, technically, is the 9th movie in the franchise, it had a lot to bring to the table. Following the reboots that Rob Zombie directed--which didn't do too well critically--this film had to go back to the start and continue the legacy that the original films created. Overall the film was solid at its core and did a good job of returning to the simplistic design that the first films introduced so nicely.

    How many titles are displayed during the opening of the sequence to the film?

     This film introduced 31 total titles in the opening sequence. The first title was the name of the film, "HALLOWEEN", being displayed on the screen first. Following this, the names of the actors, directors, producers, writers, and names of other people involved in the main positions of the film. The titles fade-in and then quickly fade-out. Moreover, the text was bright orange as this is similar to the color of light that illuminates from a jack-o-lantern.

    What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?

     The only real image that the opening sequence focuses on is a glowing jack-o-lantern that is positioned at the far right of the screen. As the titles continue to roll, the jack-o-lantern reverses from completely decomposed to ripe and full in size. Additionally, as it grows in size, the light that illuminates inside of it becomes more and more visible until the pumpkin is fully formed.

    What connotations do the images carry?

     It seems pretty original to have a pumpkin being displayed throughout the opening sequence of a Halloween film, but this image carries for meaning than a first-time "Halloween" viewer might think. The pumpkin was introduced in the original film during the title sequence as well and it is focused on a lot throughout the movie very subtly. In my mind, I believe that the producers and writers used this as a sort of nostalgic aspect to the film and hardcore fans would recall the original film and its similar opening sequence.

    How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset?

     Well, as a horror/slasher movie, a pumpkin perfectly encaptures the idea of Halloween and the spookiness that results from it. When one thinks of the holiday of Halloween, they either think if a pumpkin. The fact that the writers decided to use this in the opening sequence sounds very simple, but in reality, that's what made the original, as well as this film, so good in itself. Additionally, as the opening sequence begins, so does the original "Halloween" theme song. It brings original fans back to the start, in a simple, yet gripping way.

    How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?

     The opening sequence doesn't give anything away about the film other than its attempt at being similar to the original. Moreover, when I say "similar," I mean that it wants to stick to the feel that the original title sequence relayed to the audience. The music is ominous and dark and reminds viewers of the original movie and the franchise as a whole. The audience is left wondering how the film will play out, and if Laurie Strode will be able to successfully defeat Michael Myers again.

    What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience?

     As I stressed the idea before, the 2018 Halloween opening sequence is very similar to the original 1978 film. The score plays as the titles appear onscreen. Also, the single image of an illuminated jack-o-lantern reminds diehard fans, in this case, "target audience," the simplicity of the original film. I also thought it was a smart decision to have actress Jamie Lee Curtis' name appear as the first actor title. Not only because she is the leading role, but it keeps audiences in their seats.

    How has technology been used effectively?

    Although the opening sequence is simple, in a good way, it does use technology in more ways than one. First, the jack-o-lantern is positioned on the left of the screen. As the titles roll, the jack-o-lantern begins to reverse decompose. I don't know for sure whether the pumpkin was plastic or if it was CGI, but either way, the use of the reverse shot was a creative move on the writers' part.

   




   

Title Research: Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark

    I really liked the title sequence for this film. The conventional colors for the horror genre are effectively used (red and black). The slowly building score is played as the titles appear at the beginning of the sequence.

    How many titles are displayed during the opening of the sequence to the film?

     In this film, a total of 29 titles are displayed. They include producers, directors, actors, and others involved in the bulk of the production. The titles were either all red or black depending on the color of the background which was the opposite color. For example one of the shots was an all-red screen with black branches hanging from the top of the screen. Therefore, the title was centered in the middle in bold black letters to contrast the red background.

    What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?

     Like I said previously, tree branches were included in the title sequence. Additionally, the branches formed what looked like skulls in some of the shots. What looked like roots also could be seen in some frames of the opening sequence.

    What connotations do the images carry?

     The tree branches and roots make me personally believe that the story might take place mainly in or around a forest. This follows the horror genre conventions of setting as a commonplace to hold a story is in the woods. This gives off a spooky feeling to the audience before the film actually begins.

    How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset?

     Similar to the previous question, the genre is reinforced as tree branches may symbolize the woods. Roots symbolize the ground or earth, similar to trees, they care found in the forest, a common setting for a horror story. Additionally, skulls symbolize death, at least in my mind. This makes for an eerie start to the film as the audience will know that death will play a part in the film.

    How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?

     As the only images in the title sequence are tree branches, roots, and skulls, they don't give the story away to the audience before the actual film begins. It leaves the audience ready for what is to come without giving away too much about the plot. It is a smart way to incorporate images into a title sequence without confusing or spoiling the movie to the audience.

    What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience?

     With the help of a slow-building score and odd images, it leaves the audience wondering what's in store for the main characters of the film. It is a suspenseful, spooky opening sequence to an even creepier film.

    How has technology been used effectively?

     The use of the standard horror genre color scheme of black and red sets a suspenseful tone. Additionally, the fade-in and fade-out of titles along with the slow building score creates a really unique effect and it allows the audience to get mentally prepared for the story. Other than these two aspects of technology, the title sequence is pretty standard for horror films.

Title Research: Watch the Titles Website

   

    Similar to the "Art of the Title" website, this website called "Watch the Titles" explores the work put into making an effective title sequence. You can select the title sequence tab at the top of the page to explore movies and their opening sequence. Additionally, much like the other site, you can find title sequences by looking at the designers and studios that made the film the sequence is in. Also, you can search movies up directly through the search tab. I found this website to be much more interactive than the last as it uses moving pictures and tabs to find the movies easier. 

    The website is very eye-catching as soon as you load into the page. You are greeted with some popular titles such as the one seen in the picture. If you scroll down the home page, you can find opening sequences through a couple of created tabs. These include "feature films", "tv shows", "student projects", and even a tab for video game title sequences. Additionally, the site seems to offer more foreign film title sequences which I found interesting. 

    Much like the other site, I will use this website to research how films effectively use title sequences to grab the viewers' attention at the beginning of films. The site's tagline is "Forget the Film, Watch the Titles." I thought this was very clever as the title sequences are just as important as the film itself. They set a precedent to what the film will be and one can determine if the film will be good just by watching the opening sequence. It could be the difference between a film-goer staying to watch the movie, or one just getting up and leaving the theater before the film even starts. 

Title Research: Art of the Title Website

   

    The "Art of the Title" website is going to be vital for my title creations for my own project that I will soon begin. Titles are the names of directors, producers, actors, etc. The titles are almost always at the beginning of a film. However, the end of films does include full credit to everyone who worked on the production, sometimes even including family members of the actors or producers. Sometimes, directors/producers will use the credit sequences to share the memory of a lost loved one or actor that was involved in the film. 

    On the site, you can view the opening sequences of many movies, throughout many genres. In my case, I was researching the titles used in opening sequences of horror films. In addition to film opening sequences, the site also gave the option to view the opening sequences to tv shows. Moreover, the website allowed the option to filter movies/tv-shows by designers and studios to make looking for specific productions easier. Additionally, you are given the option to search for a specific movie. 

    My plan for using this site was to research how movies in the horror genre create a solid opening sequence to grab the viewers' attention. Title sequences are important because they set the tone for the movie and they are the first thing the watcher experiences. In most cases, the movie incorporates aspects of the film into the title sequence. For example, the film Halloween uses illuminated, carved pumpkins in the title sequence to get the viewers' attention. Alongside the jack-o-lanterns is the director's name, actors, etc. Although that title sequence was so simple, along with the use of the theme song, it set a spooky tone for the rest of the movie. 

Genre Research: Hereditary

    Hereditary, the 2018 drama/horror, was one of the most surprising films of that year. The cinematography in this film was innovative and very unique at its core. The camera angles and movements specifically were shocking and very surprising considering the trailer didn't really showcase this. The use of wide and high angle shots made for an overall, all-seeing eye experience. Additionally, the film used the god's eye angle to make the viewer feel as if they were watching over the character in the film. In Hereditary, the mother creates dollhouses and the director played with the wide-angle shot to make their house look like it was a dollhouse as well. I thought this was the most clever use of camera angles throughout the movie and something I've personally never seen before.

    Sound in this movie was unique as well. Many of the sounds were made inside a foley studio. This is a studio where a team makes sounds for a film using everyday objects, such as the cracking of celery for a nose break. This creates a crisper sound for events in the movie. Footsteps, doors creaking, and knocks on wood were used in this movie a lot, throughout the house that the family lived in. This plays into editing as well. Lighting throughout the movie was dark, which follows the standard horror movie conventions of low lighting and long shadows. The filmmakers played with this a lot as the characters travel throughout the house at night. Additionally, the use of practical lighting was at play as the characters lit candles and turned on lights to brighten scenes. Long, drawn-out scenes were used to almost giving the viewers a POV type feel. Moreover, this created more suspense and mystery to the jump scare scenes in the film.

    The film followed standard conventions of the horror genre with its use of dim lighting and quiet, drawn-out scenes to terrify viewers. Many, including me, left the theater wondering about many of the character's fates because the director left the movie on sort of a cliffhanger if you will. This is the reason I really enjoyed this movie and many other movies similar in this genre. The horror films that leave you more psychologically scarred than physically, are the better ones in my opinion.

   

Genre Research: The Conjuring

    The 2013 horror film, The Conjuring, is to this day, one of my absolute favorite horror movies I've seen. Although it's not considered, "a classic", yet that is, it still is a very solid movie overall. Camera angles are various throughout this movie. From low angle shots to tracking shots, this movie does a very good job of using everything it could at its disposal. The best part of being able to use all of these angles and movements is that it really immerses the viewer with the characters and plot of the movie. This causes an experience that is 10 times more gripping, especially if you saw it in the theatre. Lighting is exactly what you would expect from a horror film. Dark, gloomy, and jam-packed with shadows around every corner in every shot, this movie does a great job setting the mood in each scene.

    Sound plays an important role in this movie as it uses it for a lot of its scares. For many of the jump scares, a loud crash or bang will accompany a falling object or character in the film. It seems as if the sound is a character itself in this film, as it does the best job in scaring the viewer. Additionally, much like other movies in the thriller/horror genre, many of the scenes are accompanied by a rising score to build tension and suspense. Editing was clearly used to make a lot of the paranormal things happen throughout the movie. However, many of the scenes were actually made using tricky shooting and cutting. The crew could set up wires and such to make objects fall on cue for a scene. But, when objects would fly across the screen or things/characters would float, that was clearly editing post-shooting. Like I mentioned before, a score was added after shooting to a lot of the shots to make the scenes more intense for the viewer.

    The common conventions of horror movies that are displayed in The Conjuring include lighting, sound, and props. Commonly, horror movies are set in a creepy, dark place. In this case, the majority of the film takes place inside an old, creepy farmhouse. The lighting in most shots is dark and grey, causing most of the movie to have a gloomy, but spooky feel. This is why I enjoyed this movie so much I think. No matter how many times I watch it, I feel my heart race as the music slowly picks up. Just when you think the characters are safe, another jump scare happens. Overall, this film is definitely in my top 10 horror movies of the last decade.

Genre Research: Gone Girl

    Camera angles play an important role in this film. The main characters Nick (Ben Affleck) and Amy (Rosamund Pike) are shown as two completely different people, very subtly, based on the angles and shots. For example, Nick is shown as little, and almost submissive throughout the movie using a series of wide and long shots. However, towards the end of the movie, when a resolution has been come to, he appears closer to the camera signifying his dominance. On the other hand, Amy is shown as the dominant one throughout the majority of the movie with a collection of close-ups and extreme close-ups. Lighting plays an even bigger role in this movie than camera angles. The director uses light to show dominance and chemistry between the two characters. At the beginning of the film, Nick is showcased using dim lighting and a lot of shadows as he hides from his own demons. However, towards the end, he is shown brighter and more confident in himself now that the story has resolved. In Amy's case, she is foreshadowed as an evil character using the dim lighting and shadows upon her face in the last two acts of the movie. For the scenes themselves, practical lighting is used a lot, such as the scene where the town hosts a memorial for a character. The actors are all holding candles and the only other light is the moon and a few pavilions that can be seen in the shots.

    Sound is low and ominous in the movie. The suspense of scenes is built up using rising music and little to no ambient sound. There is music in the movie as well. Special effects don't seem to be too present throughout the movie. Instead, the editors decided to use more practical effects like the use of the classic corn syrup mix for blood. Scenes were most likely enhanced in the editing studio for changes with lighting a such, however, nothing too major seemed to be done with the original shots. Moreover, the addition of music was used to enhance the scenes and make the viewers more attached to the film. As for elements of the "thriller" genre throughout Gone Girl, it seems to stick to the conventions of using little to no sound in a lot of the scenes to make the shots more suspenseful and gripping. Also, the importance of lighting in the film showed how they wanted to make the movie suspenseful and to fall in line with the "thriller" genre.

    I liked the use of little sound in a lot of the scenes, as well as the rising score to cause the scenes to make you worry for the characters. That is exactly what I was doing throughout this movie. I would be rooting for one character in one scene, but in the next, I would be rooting for another one. There wasn't much that I didn't like about the movie, in fact, it was probably one of the best movies I watched in 2014.

 

Genre Research: Pitch Genre

    My pitch definitely falls under the thriller/horror genre. My movie revolves around a group of teens signing up to be part of an "experiment" and not knowing what they are about to get into. Just based on the summary, it should leave people wondering what the "experiment" is and what will happen to the group of friends. The horror element will come into play later in the two minutes we are given for the final. I really enjoy these kinds of movies and that's why I initially chose this genre to be used for my final project. I feel because I know the genre so well, I should be able to do a better job creating a movie using it myself. I am excited to do this project and work with friends of mine to make something truly gripping.

Genre Research: Other Genres

    In my PowerPoint, used in the previous blog, I researched conventions of horror films. I gathered different camera angles, movements, props, and other aspects of that genre that you could find in most horror movies. In addition, I looked at more further generalities of that genre, but in more detail. For example, I found the common sounds and costumes used in the horror genre and its films. After reviewing that PowerPoint and finally coming up with my pitch for the final project, I decided that I should research other genres outside of horror to get a better idea of how it compares to different films.

    The first genre I decided to further research was the "action" genre. The action genre uses a lot of tracking and moving shots. Mainly, these are used to follow characters running or car driving, for example. Additionally, lighting plays an important role in action movies, as it showcases the setting for scenes like any other genre would. CGI and special effects are common in action movies, as many of the stunts in these movies cannot be done by a person. Additionally, special effects may be used for explosions or other shots other than those including an actor. High angled shots may be used to emphasize the power of a character, and most of the time, that character is the protagonist. Props in action movies may include cars, handguns, knives, and other "gadgets".   Common sounds in action movies are really limited to what the character doesn't hear, but what the audience does, like a soundtrack for the film. However, the sounds of cars running or explosions may be prominent in action movies as well. Some examples of good action films include the Indiana Jones series, Die Hard, Terminator, and Lethal Weapon. My favorite element of an action movie is the feeling it gives when you watch it. Good action movies are able to keep the viewer on the edge of their seat and make them feel as if they are in the scene with the protagonist.

    The second genre I chose to research was the "thriller" genre. A thriller film is one that uses suspense to keep the viewer wondering what is going to happen next. For the most part, thrillers often have a horror or crime theme to them as well. Common camera angles in thriller films include tilt shots as they attempt to create discomfort in the viewer. Additionally, close-ups and extreme close-ups are used to highlight the main protagonist in important scenes or sequences. High angle shots of the protagonist are also used to show dominance over the antagonist of the film. For sound, slow and eerie music may be used to create uncertainty and suspense in a scene. Moreover, silence plays a big role in the thriller drama to heighten the suspense of sequences. Violence, blood, and such are used in this genre as almost a character in itself. Violence is almost always used within the thriller genre. Low-key/dim lighting is used to make a scene more gloomy and mysterious. Some examples of thriller movies include Silence of the Lambs, Psycho, and The Birds. I really enjoy thrillers, because of the horror aspect to them. I love not knowing what will happen next in a film and being surprised with the effect of a scene.

Genre Research: Powerpoint

   

    In this powerpoint I discussed many aspects of common conventions in the horror movie genre. This powerpoint, that I actually completed a couple months ago, will actually benefit me in many ways for the final we have to create. I discuss common sounds and lighting used in most horror movies. Additionally, I talked about camera movements and angles used commonly in horror films. I will be sure to come back and look at this powerpoint as a reference for my own film for the final, as I am doing a horror inspired film. 

Pitches Blog

    After much consideration, especially without the help of other groupmates, as I am working alone on this final project, I have narrowed my pitches down to two final choices. I was able to work through these as they will most likely be easier to create and use for the final. They fit better into the grading rubric in my opinion and they seem to be easier to film. Additionally, the casting process will be much easier. Also, creating a script will be more engaging for me and I think I will be able to create a more wholesome production out of these two final pitches. Now my final job is to narrow these down to only one pitch that I will use for my final project. My first pitch is the beginning of a film, which is a suspense/drama; it revolves around a group of teens who are put to the test when they take part in an "experiment", unknowingly realizing the true goal after they find the ad for it on a new part-time job app. My second pitch is a slasher/horror film centered in the suburbs of Los Angeles, which we follow a boy tormented by his friends and family. He eventually decides to take action and get revenge on anyone who ruined his past by taking each one out one-by-one using various sadistic traps.

    After reviewing these two pitches, I am leaning more towards my first pitch. This idea seems to be more inventive and I really think I could make this production very gripping. By the end of it, viewers will want more. I believe I'll be able to keep viewers on the edge of their seats with this one. Also, this idea will require fewer props and more dialogue and inventiveness. For that reason, I think it will get the attention of the viewer more than a common slasher flick may. I think this pitch is somewhat original, but that will be more of a challenge for me. In fact, I will have to try harder in making this project, as I will want to make it better than any other movie that is similar to it. It may be challenging to grip the viewers within the first two minutes, but I believe if I make the storyline and dialogue good enough, I can keep viewers wanting more by the end of the first two minutes.

    My second pitch is similar as it is more of a horror movie-inspired film, as opposed to something out of the action/adventure genre. However, the "slasher" aspect moves away from the more suspenseful/drama idea of my first pitch. This film would jump into the action quicker and put the viewers almost in the shoes of the killer. The viewers would begin watching knowing that characters would meet an untimely fate within the first couple minutes. This idea is even more original than my first pitch and even could be considered cliche to some. This project would be similar to a movie like Halloween or Friday the 13th, for example, as it follows a killer that became what he is because of his past. I don't like this pitch as much as my first, as it would require more props. Additionally, I feel as it would be harder to create a start to the film, as it would have to jump right into the action, instead of leaving the first two minutes with a cliffhanger like the first pitch would.

    With all being said, I will be using my first pitch for my final project. I am very excited to begin the production of this film. The casting for the film will involve friends of mine, outside of my class, to star as characters in the film. I think this pitch will be easier and more fun to work with for my final project. One challenge I believe I will face is the editing process, as I am working alone. However, like I've said before, I think I work more efficiently when I work alone, so hopefully, I will succeed in all areas of the production.

Start Of Final Task

    Hi, I'm Aidan, a 12th grader at Fort Lauderdale High School in the Broward County school district. I am 18 years old and ready to graduate from high school. I hope to move onto university in the Fall of 2020. I plan on majoring in either Criminology or Business. Additionally, I am thinking about minoring in Film Production on the side, mainly because of the experiences I've had in this class so far. I find the process of filming and editing different productions very interesting, and I want to learn more about it. I hope to attend school at FSU (Florida State University), as this is my first choice for college. However, my fall back option is FAU (Florida Atlantic University), as I've already been accepted there. For the final task, I am working by myself. I decided this is a better option for me as I believe I work more efficiently on my own. Additionally, I can concentrate better and have a greater range of options on what I want to film as my final project.

    In this class, I have been able to learn so much, in such a short amount of time. To name a few things, I have learned how to properly cut and replace clips in editing software. I've learned how to add music/score to a compilation of shots that I previously filmed. I now know how to add text into the background of a shot, for example, a timestamp in a movie to show when a shot was supposed to occur. I have also learned how to fade shots in and out of each other, and how to fade them either in and out to black. All these things help a project's finished product look more smooth and more like a real film, music video, commercial, etc. Real filmmakers and producers have to go through these steps every day, however, they do it on a much larger scale. While we may have had two or three people working on a project at a given time, real directors and producers may have a team of over
100 workers, performing different tasks to ensure that everything is done right. However, either way, most filmmakers use these basics in almost all productions. I am so excited to create this final project, and I'm most excited to use the skills I've acquired to create a beautiful film in the end. Although the final is only about 2 minutes long, I want it to really keep the viewer engaged and on the edge of their seats.

    A pitch is a Hollywood term to describe an idea where a film is encapsulated in 25 words or less. It is usually with one sentence. My first pitch is a suspense/drama that revolves around a group of friends that are put to the test when they are selected to take part in an unknown "experiment" that they found on a new part-time job app. My second pitch is a horror/slasher revolving around a boy who is tormented by his family to the point that he decides to gain revenge on them and anyone else in his path, through a series of sadistic pranks and traps. Finally, my third pitch is an adventure/coming of age about a teen and his friend who want to leave their current lives for more opportunity and adventure; little do they know, it will be much harder than they thought.