The second movie title sequence that I have decided to research is called Velvet Buzzsaw. This opening sequence comes from the website www.artofthetitle.com
1)How many titles are displayed during the opening sequences to the film?
In this title sequence, there were 17 titles displayed. Each title was displayed on the screen using a fade in and fade out effect.
2)What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?
The images that were displayed in this title sequence was actually drawings. This drawing included a man staring at a painting, a man almost burning in the fire, and a woman smoking. Each drawing transformed into a new drawing. For example, the smoke from the burning fire would enlarge into a new drawing, which would be the woman smoking.
3)What connotations do the images carry?
The connotations that these images carry translate into a larger message, which can show how art is always transforming into something new every time depending on the way someone may look at the drawing.
4)How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset?
The genre of mystery is reinforced symbolically through the usage of art. By using the abstract language of art, the audience is left puzzled by the way this will relate to the movie later on. Additionally, the genre is also expressed technically through the usage of transitions. The audience is again left wondering how each image relates to the next, and whether this gives an insight into the upcoming plot of the movie.
5)How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?
The film established an enigma by using drawings. Due to art being subjective to almost every human being, the meaning of the drawings is left as an enigma, as its meaning may not be truly discovering until the movie reveals it.
6)What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience?
The complex usage of transitions and art allows it to appeal to its target audience of adults, rather than children.
7)How has technology been used effectively? (You want to consider camera angles, transitions, and editing techniques)
Technology has been used effectively through the usage of transitions, along with digital art which was used throughout the entire sequence.
Friday, January 31, 2020
Title Research: Underwater
The first title opening that I have decided to research is called Underwater. This sequence comes from the website www.artofthetitle.com
1)How many titles are displayed during the opening sequences to the film?
In this opening sequence, there were 25 titles displayed. Each title that was displayed quickly faded in and then out while simultaneously getting lower and lower on the screen during the first couple of titles that appeared.
2)What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?
The types of images that were prioritized were ones relating to the ocean. For example, these images included geographical maps of the Pacific Ocean and the Mariana Trench. Newspaper clippings and drawings were also included in this sequence, describing the deep depths that have been drilled so far. Additionally, models of ocean equipment and ships also appeared in this title sequence.
3)What connotations do the images carry?
The connotations that these images carry are an unknown danger. By expressing the daring depth of thousands of feet, the audience can sense a large amount of danger that this movie may entail. This creates a large amount of suspense as the audience begins to wonder what exactly this entails for the upcoming plot of the movie.
4)How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset?
Symbolically, the genre of mystery is reinforced from the outset as not oo many clues are given right away. Though such words as "daring" and "danger" can be seen on the screen while watching this opening, not much else information is given about the movie plot, leaving the audience anticipating what's to come next. The genre is also reinforced technically through its use of music and effects. Suspenseful music and disappearing texts give the audience insight as to what the vibe this movie will give off.
5)How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?
The film manages to establish an enigma from the outset by again, not giving much information about the plot itself. Though we know the movie is about the ocean, the enigma is established as we don't know what the characters have to do with the ocean, or how the plot will progress.
6)What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience?
The creation of suspense allows the film to appeal to a more mature audience, younger audiences would not be fons od this type of vibe.
7)How has technology been used effectively? (You want to consider camera angles, transitions, and editing techniques)
The editing techniques are used effectively in this movie, such as having the first couple of titles disappear and continuously go lower and lower on the screen.
1)How many titles are displayed during the opening sequences to the film?
In this opening sequence, there were 25 titles displayed. Each title that was displayed quickly faded in and then out while simultaneously getting lower and lower on the screen during the first couple of titles that appeared.
2)What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?
The types of images that were prioritized were ones relating to the ocean. For example, these images included geographical maps of the Pacific Ocean and the Mariana Trench. Newspaper clippings and drawings were also included in this sequence, describing the deep depths that have been drilled so far. Additionally, models of ocean equipment and ships also appeared in this title sequence.
3)What connotations do the images carry?
The connotations that these images carry are an unknown danger. By expressing the daring depth of thousands of feet, the audience can sense a large amount of danger that this movie may entail. This creates a large amount of suspense as the audience begins to wonder what exactly this entails for the upcoming plot of the movie.
4)How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset?
Symbolically, the genre of mystery is reinforced from the outset as not oo many clues are given right away. Though such words as "daring" and "danger" can be seen on the screen while watching this opening, not much else information is given about the movie plot, leaving the audience anticipating what's to come next. The genre is also reinforced technically through its use of music and effects. Suspenseful music and disappearing texts give the audience insight as to what the vibe this movie will give off.
5)How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?
The film manages to establish an enigma from the outset by again, not giving much information about the plot itself. Though we know the movie is about the ocean, the enigma is established as we don't know what the characters have to do with the ocean, or how the plot will progress.
6)What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience?
The creation of suspense allows the film to appeal to a more mature audience, younger audiences would not be fons od this type of vibe.
7)How has technology been used effectively? (You want to consider camera angles, transitions, and editing techniques)
The editing techniques are used effectively in this movie, such as having the first couple of titles disappear and continuously go lower and lower on the screen.
Title Research: Watch the Titles
The second website that I have decided to research is called www.watchthetitles.com. This website again shows opening title sequences, similar to those on www.artofthetitle.com. However, the videos on this website are displayed a little differently. The homepage includes a random opening each time from a variety of genres that you can watch. It takes up the majority of the screen and constantly changes so that the audience always has something to click on. Additionally, by scrolling down you are able to see interviews done by various acclaimed title designers. This is a feature that I like about this website because it gives an insight into what the creator wanted to achieve and how exactly they achieved this. Not only does this give me insight into the creative process of making titles, but it also allows me to see the similar aspects that creators from the same genres use when making their own title sequences. By watching some of these interviews, I can hopefully tap into my creative side as they did and create titles that display the vibe of what my film will entail. Scrolling down even further, the website is then followed by categories. These include feature films, TV shows, event titles, student projects, and video games. Though this is an interesting feature of the website, it is not necessary for me to look into them. It is only important for me to research titles from films, specifically mystery films, as that is the category that my opening sequence directly follows. One major thing that is different about this website from Art of the Title though, is the fact that it gives a brief explanation of the effect titles created upon the movie. This is a vital feature that will allow me to make the best title sequence possible for my own film.
Thursday, January 30, 2020
Title Research: Art of the Title
Sunday, January 26, 2020
Genre Research: 2:22
Some common camera angles that I found in the movie 2:22 were high angles, low angles, and eye-level angles. Some common camera movements that I found throughout this movie were very slow pans and tilts, along with slow zoom-outs, and tracking shots, which were all found in the opening sequence of the film. Additionally, some common camera shots that I found while watching this movie were wide shots, dutch/oblique shots, long shots, medium close-ups, and medium-long shots.
The costumes that I found in this movie included mainly everyday, regular clothing. Along with business-related clothing for the opening scenes, which included many people in suits. The lighting for this movie was very bright as it used natural sunlight for the scenes that were filmed outdoors. However, even for these outdoor shots, the hue of the lighting tended to be more on the cooler side to portray the mystery of the film. The actors in this film were pretty serious throughout the movie except for when the main character, Dylan, would start to hear noises again, in which he would start acting more hysterical as a response to this. The makeup in this movie is not extremely prominent as no characters tended to wear heavy makeup. Additionally, there were no action or fighting scenes so no blood was involved. The props for this movie tended to be briefcases, along with cellphones and guns which were important in the opening scene of the movie. The setting for this movie takes place in many different areas depending on the scene. Some of these settings include a restaurant, outdoors at a park or a train station in New York City.
The common editing that I found in this movie were jumpcuts, cross-cutting, cutaways, and eye-line matches. Some common sounds that I heard throughout this movie were diegetic sound, non-diegetic sounds, dialogue, snd sound motifs. Some common elements of this movie that follow similar elements of most mystery movies are the fact that it includes a lot of scenes that involve suspense.
The element that I like that most about this movie was its opening scene, This got me very interested in watching the movie through its use of slow camera movements and the non-diegetic sounds that were added. One element that I did not enjoy about this movie was the costumes. I feel as though more costumes could have been added to make the movie more interested as they tended to only be regular everyday clothing.
Genre Research: Killers Anonymous
Some common camera angles that I found in the movie, Killers Anonymous, were eye-level angles and high angles. Some common camera movements that I found throughout this movie were tracking shots, quick pans, and tilts. These were mainly used for the action scenes in the movie. Some common camera shots that I found in this movie were wide shots, long shots, medium close-ups, and close-ups, which were typical of the main characters.
The costumes that I found throughout this movie were quite different from what is normally found in most mystery movies. This is because the main characters, who were a group of killers, wore articles of clothing such as leather jackets, boots, and bandanas. The lighting of this film was also pretty different compared to most mystery films as the lighting tended to be pretty bright and often used color, such as orange and purple, to display certain settings. The actors in this film were often times serious as it dealt with the subject matter of assassination, however, some characters tended to have a lighthearted attitude sometimes. The makeup for this movie included lots of blood as there were many fighting scenes added into this movie. The props for this movies mainly included weapons of all sorts. More specifically for fighting scenes, common weapons that were used were baseball bats, swords, axes, and guns. The setting of this movie took place in many areas such as a bar or in a restaurant. Additionally, some action or fighting scenes also took place in an underground basement and a nightclub.
Some common editing that I found while watching this movie were jumpcuts, shot/reverse shots, eye-line matches, and action matches. Some common sounds that I heard throughout this movie were voiceovers, dialogues, diegetic, and non-dietic sounds. This movie also featured a relevant score that used guitar and western music in order to enhance some fighting scenes. Some common elements that I found in this movie that are similar to the elements found in the mystery genre included crime, which was suspenseful as it also brought in the aspect of murder.
The elements that I liked about this movie was that it tended to stray away from some of the common conventions found in most mystery movies, such as the attire. I also enjoyed the score of this movie as I felt as though it really enhanced the scenes of the movie. However, an element that I did not enjoy about this movie was the lighting. I felt as though the bright and vivid lighting often did not fit the aura that the movie was going for.
The costumes that I found throughout this movie were quite different from what is normally found in most mystery movies. This is because the main characters, who were a group of killers, wore articles of clothing such as leather jackets, boots, and bandanas. The lighting of this film was also pretty different compared to most mystery films as the lighting tended to be pretty bright and often used color, such as orange and purple, to display certain settings. The actors in this film were often times serious as it dealt with the subject matter of assassination, however, some characters tended to have a lighthearted attitude sometimes. The makeup for this movie included lots of blood as there were many fighting scenes added into this movie. The props for this movies mainly included weapons of all sorts. More specifically for fighting scenes, common weapons that were used were baseball bats, swords, axes, and guns. The setting of this movie took place in many areas such as a bar or in a restaurant. Additionally, some action or fighting scenes also took place in an underground basement and a nightclub.
Some common editing that I found while watching this movie were jumpcuts, shot/reverse shots, eye-line matches, and action matches. Some common sounds that I heard throughout this movie were voiceovers, dialogues, diegetic, and non-dietic sounds. This movie also featured a relevant score that used guitar and western music in order to enhance some fighting scenes. Some common elements that I found in this movie that are similar to the elements found in the mystery genre included crime, which was suspenseful as it also brought in the aspect of murder.
The elements that I liked about this movie was that it tended to stray away from some of the common conventions found in most mystery movies, such as the attire. I also enjoyed the score of this movie as I felt as though it really enhanced the scenes of the movie. However, an element that I did not enjoy about this movie was the lighting. I felt as though the bright and vivid lighting often did not fit the aura that the movie was going for.
Genre Research: Spinning Man
Some common camera angles that I found in the movie, Spinning Man, were eye-level angles and low angles. Some common camera movements that I found in this movie were slow pans and tilts, and tracking shots. Some common camera shots that I found in this movie were two-shots, three-shots, over the shoulder shots, wide shots, and medium close-ups. These shots mainly featured the main protagonist, Evan Birch, who is a detective along with other characters whom he may be interviewing.
The costumes that I found throughout this movie were mainly business-related. As Evan Birch was a businessman, his attire would mainly consist of suits and professional work clothes. However, those whom he was interviewing were often found wearing regular, everyday clothing. The lighting in this movie was somewhat dim yet still used natural lighting. However in places like Evan's office, the lighting was also dim, however, it had a green undertone which helped to create an eerie mode. The actors in this movie were normally very serious as this movie talked about a serious subject matter, which was a crime that was committed. The makeup that can be found in this movie for women was mainly everyday, minimal makeup. There was no blood featured in this movie as no fighting or action scenes were involved. The props for this movie included a briefcase, along with a folder and a desk that could often be found in many scenes were Evan was at work. The setting for this movie again was in a workplace, more specifically an office. Some other settings in this movie also included a cafe and other people's houses of whom Evan would be interviewing.
The common editing that I found throughout this movie included many jumpcuts, along with eye-line matches and cutaways. The common sounds that I heard throughout this movie were dialogues and diegetic sounds. This movie did not feature a strong soundtrack or even non-diegetic sounds as well. Some common elements in this movie that I found that relate to the mystery genre were the solving of a crime, along with the costumes that were similar as well. The costumes were normally always business clothes or everyday regular clothes.
The element that I liked the most about this movie was the fact that Evan was actually able to interrogate and interview many people following the crime. However, one element that I did not enjoy about this movie was its lack of suspense along with the lack of a strong soundtrack. Though it was a movie with a good storyline, it was hard to remain interested while watching it.
The costumes that I found throughout this movie were mainly business-related. As Evan Birch was a businessman, his attire would mainly consist of suits and professional work clothes. However, those whom he was interviewing were often found wearing regular, everyday clothing. The lighting in this movie was somewhat dim yet still used natural lighting. However in places like Evan's office, the lighting was also dim, however, it had a green undertone which helped to create an eerie mode. The actors in this movie were normally very serious as this movie talked about a serious subject matter, which was a crime that was committed. The makeup that can be found in this movie for women was mainly everyday, minimal makeup. There was no blood featured in this movie as no fighting or action scenes were involved. The props for this movie included a briefcase, along with a folder and a desk that could often be found in many scenes were Evan was at work. The setting for this movie again was in a workplace, more specifically an office. Some other settings in this movie also included a cafe and other people's houses of whom Evan would be interviewing.
The common editing that I found throughout this movie included many jumpcuts, along with eye-line matches and cutaways. The common sounds that I heard throughout this movie were dialogues and diegetic sounds. This movie did not feature a strong soundtrack or even non-diegetic sounds as well. Some common elements in this movie that I found that relate to the mystery genre were the solving of a crime, along with the costumes that were similar as well. The costumes were normally always business clothes or everyday regular clothes.
The element that I liked the most about this movie was the fact that Evan was actually able to interrogate and interview many people following the crime. However, one element that I did not enjoy about this movie was its lack of suspense along with the lack of a strong soundtrack. Though it was a movie with a good storyline, it was hard to remain interested while watching it.
Genre Research: The Commuter
The common camera angles that are found in the movie, The Commuter, are eye-level angles and low angles. These angles were mainly focused on the main character, Michael, many times. Some common camera movements that are found in this movie are pans, tilt, and many hand-held shots as well. Some common camera shots that I found while watching this movie were dutch/oblique shots, medium close-ups, two-shots, and three-shots, which often feature the people who were on the train with Michael.
The costumes that I found while watching this movie were usually work-related. For example, the main character, Michael, was always wearing his business suit as he was oftentimes going to work. Additionally, on his commute to work some people on the train, however, were wearing everyday regular clothing. The common lighting that I found in this movie tended to be somewhat bright, as Michael was outside a lot. However, the lighting was never made too bright in most scenes to create a vibe that translated to Michael's seriousness. The actors in the movie tended to be pretty expressionless throughout the movie, however, Michael's family or the random people he met on his commute were charismatic or happy. Generally, there was not any relevant makeup in this movie, besides the fake blood that was added whenever there was a fight scene. The props in this movie include everyday objects, such as a briefcase or a set of playing cards on the train. Yet for some fighting scenes, guns were also included. The setting of this movie is mainly on a train as that is Michael's way of commuting to work. However, the first couple of scenes also feature Michael's house briefly.
The editing that was featured in this movie included mainly jumpcuts, cutaways, eye-line matches, and action matches. The common sounds that I heard were dialogues, diegetic sound, non-diegetic sound, and sound bridges. Common elements that I found throughout this movie that match the common elements of the mystery genre include suspense, along with murder. One important element that was also found was Michael's solving of the "puzzle" which can be similar to him solving a crime.
The elements that I enjoyed about this movie were the action-filled fighting scenes, along with Michael's way of figuring out someone's identity by using the clues around him. One element that i did not enjoy about this movie was the setting that it took place on, which was the train. I felt as though there could have been more settings incorporated into the movie.
The costumes that I found while watching this movie were usually work-related. For example, the main character, Michael, was always wearing his business suit as he was oftentimes going to work. Additionally, on his commute to work some people on the train, however, were wearing everyday regular clothing. The common lighting that I found in this movie tended to be somewhat bright, as Michael was outside a lot. However, the lighting was never made too bright in most scenes to create a vibe that translated to Michael's seriousness. The actors in the movie tended to be pretty expressionless throughout the movie, however, Michael's family or the random people he met on his commute were charismatic or happy. Generally, there was not any relevant makeup in this movie, besides the fake blood that was added whenever there was a fight scene. The props in this movie include everyday objects, such as a briefcase or a set of playing cards on the train. Yet for some fighting scenes, guns were also included. The setting of this movie is mainly on a train as that is Michael's way of commuting to work. However, the first couple of scenes also feature Michael's house briefly.
The editing that was featured in this movie included mainly jumpcuts, cutaways, eye-line matches, and action matches. The common sounds that I heard were dialogues, diegetic sound, non-diegetic sound, and sound bridges. Common elements that I found throughout this movie that match the common elements of the mystery genre include suspense, along with murder. One important element that was also found was Michael's solving of the "puzzle" which can be similar to him solving a crime.
The elements that I enjoyed about this movie were the action-filled fighting scenes, along with Michael's way of figuring out someone's identity by using the clues around him. One element that i did not enjoy about this movie was the setting that it took place on, which was the train. I felt as though there could have been more settings incorporated into the movie.
Decision Day
Previously, I had to research a genre and make a PowerPoint based on its conventions and camera and editing elements. Which was also followed by researching two other genres following the same format. For this research section, I decided to research the horror and mystery genre. I feel as though my pitch followed similar plotlines of which you could find in those types of movies. Similar enough, through research, I found that elements found in horror and mystery movies did fit to what I have envisioned for my film. However, the mystery genre is a much better fit in terms of its elements. A lot of gore and loud non-diegetic sound can be found in horror films and is actually one of the key elements of these types of films. Yet my film will not feature these elements. More fittingly, my film will feature suspense and crime which better fall onto the category of the mystery genre, which is why I chose the mystery genre for my opening sequence.
Genre Research: Horror & Mystery
For this project, I have decided to research the horror and mystery genre
Some common camera angles of the horror genre include eye-level angles and high angles, which are frequently used to show the protagonists' faces. Some common camera movements found in horror films include very slow pans and tilts and tracking shots. Typically the pans and tilts will slowly reveal a location or subject. While tracking shots are much faster as they show cars driving or people running from an antagonist villain. Some common shots found in horror movies are extreme close-ups, two-shots, over the shoulder shots, and medium close-ups.
For horror movies, the costumes vary heavily depending on the character. A villain, for example, may have very baggy and distressed clothes. However, in comparison, the protagonist usually wears normal everyday clothes, which later gets stained and messy as the film progresses. Lighting is normally very dark in horror movie scenes. Most of which feature no natural sunlight at all. Often the only lighting that can be found in horror movies comes from a flashlight. The acting in horror movies is usually very dramatic and intense. Both the villains and the protagonist have to be very serious in order to create tension between each opposing end. The makeup found in horror movies is again also very dramatic and intense. Usually, fake blood and FX prosthetic makeup are applied to the actors in order to give a scarier and convincing feel to the movie. Typically, props can vary depending on each type of horror movie, but mainly any weapon of sorts can be commonly found in horror movies, some of which include knives, baseball bats, hammers, and axes. The setting for horror movies frequently takes place in a house or in a forest. More specially, the basement or back yard of an empty house or a vacant cabin in the woods
Common editing used in horror films includes shot-reverse-shot, cutaways, eye-line matches, action matches, and reaction shots. Common sounds found in horror movies include non-diegetic sound, diegetic sound, sound bridge, and dialogue. Suspense and intensity is a very common element that can be found in all horror films, it is a key aspect that makes a horror film a horror film. Along with this, typically a lot of gore and blood are featured, along with many killings and dismemberment of the characters or animals involved. Confusion is also an element that is featured mainly through the first half of the movie, which leaves viewers interested until the very end.
What I like about horror movies is the style of editing that can be found in most of them. Typically, the editing is really fast-paced and exciting which keeps viewers like me interested. Along with the intensity of the movie, I also enjoy the dramatic killings and gore that can be found in horror movies. However, one thing that I do not like about horror movies is the lighting. I prefer movies with bright lighting and vivid colors so horror movies are not my favorite in terms of lighting.
Some examples of horror films that have been released within the last three years include Us, The Prodigy, Child's Play, and La Llorona.
Moving along, the next genre that I have decided to research is the mystery genre. Some common camera angles found in mystery films are low angles. Typically, this is to show a character waiting or walking somewhere. Some common camera movements also include slow pans, tilts, and zoom-outs, along with tracking and hand-held shots. Some common shots that are found in mystery movies are medium close-ups, two-shots, wide shots, and long shots.
The costumes that can be found in mystery movies tend to look more professional than in most movies. Costumes can include suits, business or work clothes, and even everyday clothes are common as well. The lighting in mystery movies can vary heavily depending on the movie or the specific scene. For example, scenes may be very bright as they are outside with natural sunlight. However, some scenes may be filmed in an alleyway for example, which will include very minimal lighting. The acting in mystery movies tends to be a lot more serious than most movies. This is because the subject matters in mystery movies tend to be about murder or crime which is also a very serious subject matter. Makeup found in mystery movies is very minimal usually. This will include everyday, casual makeup for women and occasional blood on the actors depending on the scene. Props for many mystery movies include cellphones, police cars, briefcases, and knives for defense scenes occasionally, just to name a few. The setting for mystery movies can differ, however one thing that I have noticed in many mystery movies is that they usually feature a scene with someone in public transportation, such as a train or subway station.
Common editing that can be found in mystery movies is cross-cutting, cutaways, shot/reverse shots, and jumpcuts. Common sounds that can be found in mystery movies include diegetic sounds, non-diegetic sounds, dialogue, and sometimes voiceovers as well. Some common elements overall that can be found in mystery movies are the subject matter of crime. Specifically, the crimes can be of a murder involving one's partner. Additionally, the protagonist is also either the one who committed the crime or the person who is trying to solve the crime.
What I like about mystery movies is the common elements of crime or murder that can be found in many of them. This makes for a much more interesting plot as it leaves the viewer curious to see how it can be solved. One element that I do not like about mystery movies is the costumes. The costumes tend to be quite boring and usually have no interesting aspects to them as they rarely ever change styles throughout the movie.
Some examples of mystery films that have been released within the last three years include Get Out, Wind River, and Murder on Orient Express.
Some common camera angles of the horror genre include eye-level angles and high angles, which are frequently used to show the protagonists' faces. Some common camera movements found in horror films include very slow pans and tilts and tracking shots. Typically the pans and tilts will slowly reveal a location or subject. While tracking shots are much faster as they show cars driving or people running from an antagonist villain. Some common shots found in horror movies are extreme close-ups, two-shots, over the shoulder shots, and medium close-ups.
For horror movies, the costumes vary heavily depending on the character. A villain, for example, may have very baggy and distressed clothes. However, in comparison, the protagonist usually wears normal everyday clothes, which later gets stained and messy as the film progresses. Lighting is normally very dark in horror movie scenes. Most of which feature no natural sunlight at all. Often the only lighting that can be found in horror movies comes from a flashlight. The acting in horror movies is usually very dramatic and intense. Both the villains and the protagonist have to be very serious in order to create tension between each opposing end. The makeup found in horror movies is again also very dramatic and intense. Usually, fake blood and FX prosthetic makeup are applied to the actors in order to give a scarier and convincing feel to the movie. Typically, props can vary depending on each type of horror movie, but mainly any weapon of sorts can be commonly found in horror movies, some of which include knives, baseball bats, hammers, and axes. The setting for horror movies frequently takes place in a house or in a forest. More specially, the basement or back yard of an empty house or a vacant cabin in the woods
Common editing used in horror films includes shot-reverse-shot, cutaways, eye-line matches, action matches, and reaction shots. Common sounds found in horror movies include non-diegetic sound, diegetic sound, sound bridge, and dialogue. Suspense and intensity is a very common element that can be found in all horror films, it is a key aspect that makes a horror film a horror film. Along with this, typically a lot of gore and blood are featured, along with many killings and dismemberment of the characters or animals involved. Confusion is also an element that is featured mainly through the first half of the movie, which leaves viewers interested until the very end.
What I like about horror movies is the style of editing that can be found in most of them. Typically, the editing is really fast-paced and exciting which keeps viewers like me interested. Along with the intensity of the movie, I also enjoy the dramatic killings and gore that can be found in horror movies. However, one thing that I do not like about horror movies is the lighting. I prefer movies with bright lighting and vivid colors so horror movies are not my favorite in terms of lighting.
Some examples of horror films that have been released within the last three years include Us, The Prodigy, Child's Play, and La Llorona.
Moving along, the next genre that I have decided to research is the mystery genre. Some common camera angles found in mystery films are low angles. Typically, this is to show a character waiting or walking somewhere. Some common camera movements also include slow pans, tilts, and zoom-outs, along with tracking and hand-held shots. Some common shots that are found in mystery movies are medium close-ups, two-shots, wide shots, and long shots.
The costumes that can be found in mystery movies tend to look more professional than in most movies. Costumes can include suits, business or work clothes, and even everyday clothes are common as well. The lighting in mystery movies can vary heavily depending on the movie or the specific scene. For example, scenes may be very bright as they are outside with natural sunlight. However, some scenes may be filmed in an alleyway for example, which will include very minimal lighting. The acting in mystery movies tends to be a lot more serious than most movies. This is because the subject matters in mystery movies tend to be about murder or crime which is also a very serious subject matter. Makeup found in mystery movies is very minimal usually. This will include everyday, casual makeup for women and occasional blood on the actors depending on the scene. Props for many mystery movies include cellphones, police cars, briefcases, and knives for defense scenes occasionally, just to name a few. The setting for mystery movies can differ, however one thing that I have noticed in many mystery movies is that they usually feature a scene with someone in public transportation, such as a train or subway station.
Common editing that can be found in mystery movies is cross-cutting, cutaways, shot/reverse shots, and jumpcuts. Common sounds that can be found in mystery movies include diegetic sounds, non-diegetic sounds, dialogue, and sometimes voiceovers as well. Some common elements overall that can be found in mystery movies are the subject matter of crime. Specifically, the crimes can be of a murder involving one's partner. Additionally, the protagonist is also either the one who committed the crime or the person who is trying to solve the crime.
What I like about mystery movies is the common elements of crime or murder that can be found in many of them. This makes for a much more interesting plot as it leaves the viewer curious to see how it can be solved. One element that I do not like about mystery movies is the costumes. The costumes tend to be quite boring and usually have no interesting aspects to them as they rarely ever change styles throughout the movie.
Some examples of mystery films that have been released within the last three years include Get Out, Wind River, and Murder on Orient Express.
Friday, January 24, 2020
Genre Research: Action
For this project, we had to work in a group to create a PowerPoint about a certain genre. Genres were assigned and my group was given the action genre. We had to describe the lighting, camera angles, camera movement, mis-en-scene, common elements, examples, common sounds, what we like about the genre, and what we do not like about the genre. To make the process go faster, we split the work into 3 slides per person. I was in charge of doing the common elements of the genre, finding example films, and common sounds. The first slide I decided to work on was the example films slide since I already knew many action films. Through making this slide, however, I've discovered many other new action movies. Next, I worked on the common elements of the genre, some of which include fighting scenes, CGI, and villains. Finally, I began to work on the common sounds of the genre, which can include loud music with beat drops at the climax of the scene.
Friday, January 17, 2020
Deciding the Final Pitch
After thinking deeply about which pitch ideas I favored the most, I've narrowed down to two pitches. The first pitch that I've chosen is about a hitman who just made another kill; however, someone spied on him, so he will have to come up with a deal with the stranger. For this pitch, the opening will only include the preparations of the hitman, along with the scene where he kills the victim. However, the last three seconds will be showing when the hitman turns around and sees the stranger behind him. This allows a cliffhanger to be made, without actually revealing the deal that will be made. I like this pitch idea because I feel like it would be fun to film with my friends. Additionally, I also have a song in mind that I feel would work perfectly with this film. I also enjoy the type of suspense that would be made while making a film like this. However, there are some downsides that would come in following through with this pitch idea. One of them being the lack of male actors. This would result in going to farther lengths to secure a male actor, or just not include a male character.
Furthermore, I have also narrowed down to one more pitch idea. My second idea would be about two friends who go on a road trip together, but one of them has secret plans for revenge and getting away with murder. For this pitch idea, I would be filming the two characters stopping to get food at a shop. Yet, when they try to continue driving, the car suddenly runs out of gas. This would lead to the actual killing of the other friend, yet the murderer would drive away, leaving the story on a cliffhanger. I like this idea because it would be easy to secure the actors. I also like this idea because it seems enjoyable to film with my friends. For this pitch as well, I also have a song that I feel would fit in perfectly with this scenario. However, there is one major downfall to using this pitch. Securing a location would be difficult as I do not have a permit to film.
For this project, however, I have decided to go with the second pitch. I chose this pitch because it is the most convenient one for me to do. Due to the limited amount of time that will be assigned for filming, it is important to keep deadlines in mind. Which is why convenience was the main factor in deciding a pitch. Additionally, this is also just the pitch that I favor more. I feel more passionate about wanting to film this pitch idea because I find it to be more exciting. Through this pitch, I feel as though I'd be able to express my creative side while editing. And lastly, I chose this pitch over the first pitch because my friend who has agreed to be an actor also prefers it over the first one. As the director and producer of this film, I think it is important for my actors to enjoy what they are getting involved in as well. This will make the overall experience much more enjoyable for both of us,
Furthermore, I have also narrowed down to one more pitch idea. My second idea would be about two friends who go on a road trip together, but one of them has secret plans for revenge and getting away with murder. For this pitch idea, I would be filming the two characters stopping to get food at a shop. Yet, when they try to continue driving, the car suddenly runs out of gas. This would lead to the actual killing of the other friend, yet the murderer would drive away, leaving the story on a cliffhanger. I like this idea because it would be easy to secure the actors. I also like this idea because it seems enjoyable to film with my friends. For this pitch as well, I also have a song that I feel would fit in perfectly with this scenario. However, there is one major downfall to using this pitch. Securing a location would be difficult as I do not have a permit to film.
For this project, however, I have decided to go with the second pitch. I chose this pitch because it is the most convenient one for me to do. Due to the limited amount of time that will be assigned for filming, it is important to keep deadlines in mind. Which is why convenience was the main factor in deciding a pitch. Additionally, this is also just the pitch that I favor more. I feel more passionate about wanting to film this pitch idea because I find it to be more exciting. Through this pitch, I feel as though I'd be able to express my creative side while editing. And lastly, I chose this pitch over the first pitch because my friend who has agreed to be an actor also prefers it over the first one. As the director and producer of this film, I think it is important for my actors to enjoy what they are getting involved in as well. This will make the overall experience much more enjoyable for both of us,
Starting the Final Task
Hello, my name is Karen and I am currently taking AICE Media Studies at Fort Lauderdale High School. I am 16 years old and currently in the 11th grade. I live in South Florida, U.S.A. as of now. I like to listen to music and play guitar for fun. Not much has changed since the last blog I wrote in October. One major difference though is that it is a new year. It is now 2020 which means that our final task is due in a couple months! Since I am in the Cambridge program at my school, earning this credit would be really important to me. I am determined to work hard in order to get this project done, however, this may be a difficult task. This is because I am working alone on this project. Although I've worked alone for previous projects, this task may be more difficult for me as the film has to be 2 minutes long.
Out of all the projects that I have filmed in the class, I have learned many new skills. Some of which including learning how to work a real camera, along with the settings and filters that come along with them. Additionally, I also learned how to set up a tripod. More specifically, which angles would look better with my scenes. Along with this, I have also become a better editor. This skill, in particular, has been challenging for me as the editing process takes a lot of patience. However, I've grown to appreciate the efforts that go into creating a finished product. I am excited to film this project as I can use it to express darker themes. These are themes that would have otherwise felt out of place in other projects such as the commercial or music video. Furthermore, I am also excited to work with my friends for this project as they would be used as actors for my film.
A pitch is a Hollywood term used to describe an idea where a film is encapsulated in 25 words or less. It is usually only one sentence. Currently, I have three pitch ideas for this upcoming project. The first one is a story about a hitman who just made another kill. However, someone spied on him, so he will have to come up with a deal with the stranger. Next, my second idea would be about two friends who go on a road trip together, but one of them has secret plans for revenge and getting away with murder. And lastly, my final pitch idea would be about two life long friends, yet one of them randomly disappears one day without saying goodbye. It's her friend's mission to find out her whereabouts
Out of all the projects that I have filmed in the class, I have learned many new skills. Some of which including learning how to work a real camera, along with the settings and filters that come along with them. Additionally, I also learned how to set up a tripod. More specifically, which angles would look better with my scenes. Along with this, I have also become a better editor. This skill, in particular, has been challenging for me as the editing process takes a lot of patience. However, I've grown to appreciate the efforts that go into creating a finished product. I am excited to film this project as I can use it to express darker themes. These are themes that would have otherwise felt out of place in other projects such as the commercial or music video. Furthermore, I am also excited to work with my friends for this project as they would be used as actors for my film.
A pitch is a Hollywood term used to describe an idea where a film is encapsulated in 25 words or less. It is usually only one sentence. Currently, I have three pitch ideas for this upcoming project. The first one is a story about a hitman who just made another kill. However, someone spied on him, so he will have to come up with a deal with the stranger. Next, my second idea would be about two friends who go on a road trip together, but one of them has secret plans for revenge and getting away with murder. And lastly, my final pitch idea would be about two life long friends, yet one of them randomly disappears one day without saying goodbye. It's her friend's mission to find out her whereabouts
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