In order to see what my possible audience feel about my thriller I asked several people their opinions. In addition to this our whole media class watched each others thrillers and told us their opinions on it.
Ellis Baker: I really enjoyed it, I thought the use of colours in the dream sequence was effective in showing her on drugs. Also, the fast cuts at the end showed a good portrayal of the lead character's life.
Lewis Bayley : I thought the long tracking shot at the beginning was effectively done. Also, the incorporation of a large variety of shots was good. The acting throughout was very believable, and I feel that it was a successful film.
Olivia Haggar: I feel that the choice of music, although unusual for a thriller, was effectively chosen and matched what was on screen.
James Perry : This is a really good piece of work for AS,really good use of the effects off I-Movie
Lucy Carter :I think the music works really well because it's not your typical eerie sounding music, but it still has an anxious feel about it. Also, the editing where the girl has been taking drugs is really effective and shows a lot of skill'
When we first showed our piece i wasnt sure how rpeople would react to what we had done , but after we showed it everyone had positive feedback , they were impressed with the effects that we used (beth on trampoline) and said that it was clear what we were trying to get across, another aspect of the film that they were impressed iwth was the unusual use of music that we used through out because it is not convay the usual music used but they found it effective and thought that it went with the film very well.The only criticsim that was giving was about the width of a "cocaine" line which when were were filming we didnt really consider the width it was menat to be . overall i am impressed with the comments that we recieved , obviously there is always room for improvment but i am pleased with what we have produced.
Monday 3 May 2010
Evalution
In what way does your media product use. develop or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?
My thriller does conform to some of the conventions found in thrillers. It is set in 2 different locations which are accessible , which is usually the case in thrillers. The characters involved in my thriller are average high school students to create the idea of normality. They are just everyday people as in the case of most thrillers. Also, I carefully selected the actors to play the roles. I feel that they convincingly played their roles to the best of their ability to portray the characters they were meant to convey, which can be an issue when producing a film without professional actors.
However It does challenge several features of traditional thrillers. The music is used to create suspense throughout the entire film but is not your typical eary sound that often alot of thrillers have . I have used music to develop the character and to an extent to narrate what is happening on the screen for the opening scene. Also, I have used music with lyrics, which is unusual but I wanted the lead character to be seen as though she was listening to the music herself (diagetic music). It is only when I reach the dream sequence that music is used to create suspense. Instead of building up to something happening. I have used the opening to disorientate the audience as what is going on. some of these elements are not usually found in your typical
thriller and that is why i chose some of these aspects to challenge the typical genre.
How does your media product represent particular social groups?
Our film has a clear representation of youth. In our thriller, the youth are represented in a very negative light,which often occurs within society where they are shown as being involved in drugs, alcohol, smoking and they has our thriller progresses somehow linked to the murder. Some of these activities such as drinking, are often associated with the youth of today, so my thriller has conformed to the stereotypical representation of youth. However, it has been taken to the extreme and as thrillers do take an unexpected turn .
what kind of media institution might distribute your media product and why ?
I feel that alot of media institutions would distribute our product , mainly I aim for the obvious film industry , and would also like to use trailers and possibly a premiere that would help with the development and the progression of our film and would be an effective way of promotion, considering a trailer has a limited amount of time to reach out to its target market, i would have to ensure that in that short time the clip that i would distribute would be to a high quality but to mostly interact the watching audience so that they would want to watch the film has a whole. Film premieres allow the film to be publicized around the globe, not only giving actors publicity but also the film company itself. meaning that the company would be able to grow and progress.
who would your audience for your media product?
Our film is aimed towards ages 15 and above, and possibly no older than 30 as some of the content maybe frowned upon by older generations. The reason I feel that our thriller would be aimed towards people over the age of 15 is because of the reference to drugs and alcohol, which would be persistent throughout the film. Due to this content I would classify the film as a 15.
How did you attract/address your audience?
we attracted our audience through the content of the film. My target audience often are attracted to risky behaviour so to have a film that revolves around all these types of behaviour and showing these activities would interest the targeted audience. Also, the choice of music appeals to the target audience involved but also subverts the typical music used in thrillers.
The fact that the thriller is based around drugs and alcohol mainly, would appeal to the target audience (15 and above) as they are more likely to be able to identify and be able to relate with the issues covered with in the film If the film were to be released I would try and attract them through the usual ways such as trailers, interviews, pod casts, premieres and reviews in magazines and newspapers by covering all ranges of media this would also enhance the different audiences that this may attract.
what have you learnt about technologies from the process of constructing this product?
I learnt how to use the programme Imovie when i had never used apple software before , after practice and trying out different things i became rather efficient when using it and found i was able to finish things quickly but to a high standard, I also learnt how different camera shots and certain editing can change the entire sequence of the film and keep the audience interacted. Finally i also learnt how to look for certain music that would fit to what was going on , on screen and how different music can effect the mood that you are trying to create.
Looking back at your preliminary task , what do you feel you have learnt in the progression from it to the full product?
Since my preliminary task, I have learnt various things not only in the production and development but learning of new skills and the use of equipment that i maybe not used to , i also realised the importance of team work and co-operation and how effects the pace and standard in which you get things completed and i feel that we as a group tackled this rather well after little adjustment. In the editing of our preliminary task some of our shots were left and held for too long. This was not the case in our thriller but i feel that there maybe could of been a bit more dialog because on the first watch some may be confused of the plot of the thriller. In order, to keep the audience interested we had to ensured that shots were not held in one spot for longer than 3 seconds so it did not drag on. In the are of editing I learnt how to add various effects and how it can change the mood of what is going on . Also, I thought that it was important to include a range of different shots that would help enhance what was going on. I feel that by planning it thoroughly we were able to complete it rather quickly and therefore had more time to edit and go back and change things if need be due to the time we had left this seemed to work very well.
My thriller does conform to some of the conventions found in thrillers. It is set in 2 different locations which are accessible , which is usually the case in thrillers. The characters involved in my thriller are average high school students to create the idea of normality. They are just everyday people as in the case of most thrillers. Also, I carefully selected the actors to play the roles. I feel that they convincingly played their roles to the best of their ability to portray the characters they were meant to convey, which can be an issue when producing a film without professional actors.
However It does challenge several features of traditional thrillers. The music is used to create suspense throughout the entire film but is not your typical eary sound that often alot of thrillers have . I have used music to develop the character and to an extent to narrate what is happening on the screen for the opening scene. Also, I have used music with lyrics, which is unusual but I wanted the lead character to be seen as though she was listening to the music herself (diagetic music). It is only when I reach the dream sequence that music is used to create suspense. Instead of building up to something happening. I have used the opening to disorientate the audience as what is going on. some of these elements are not usually found in your typical
thriller and that is why i chose some of these aspects to challenge the typical genre.
How does your media product represent particular social groups?
Our film has a clear representation of youth. In our thriller, the youth are represented in a very negative light,which often occurs within society where they are shown as being involved in drugs, alcohol, smoking and they has our thriller progresses somehow linked to the murder. Some of these activities such as drinking, are often associated with the youth of today, so my thriller has conformed to the stereotypical representation of youth. However, it has been taken to the extreme and as thrillers do take an unexpected turn .
what kind of media institution might distribute your media product and why ?
I feel that alot of media institutions would distribute our product , mainly I aim for the obvious film industry , and would also like to use trailers and possibly a premiere that would help with the development and the progression of our film and would be an effective way of promotion, considering a trailer has a limited amount of time to reach out to its target market, i would have to ensure that in that short time the clip that i would distribute would be to a high quality but to mostly interact the watching audience so that they would want to watch the film has a whole. Film premieres allow the film to be publicized around the globe, not only giving actors publicity but also the film company itself. meaning that the company would be able to grow and progress.
who would your audience for your media product?
Our film is aimed towards ages 15 and above, and possibly no older than 30 as some of the content maybe frowned upon by older generations. The reason I feel that our thriller would be aimed towards people over the age of 15 is because of the reference to drugs and alcohol, which would be persistent throughout the film. Due to this content I would classify the film as a 15.
How did you attract/address your audience?
we attracted our audience through the content of the film. My target audience often are attracted to risky behaviour so to have a film that revolves around all these types of behaviour and showing these activities would interest the targeted audience. Also, the choice of music appeals to the target audience involved but also subverts the typical music used in thrillers.
The fact that the thriller is based around drugs and alcohol mainly, would appeal to the target audience (15 and above) as they are more likely to be able to identify and be able to relate with the issues covered with in the film If the film were to be released I would try and attract them through the usual ways such as trailers, interviews, pod casts, premieres and reviews in magazines and newspapers by covering all ranges of media this would also enhance the different audiences that this may attract.
what have you learnt about technologies from the process of constructing this product?
I learnt how to use the programme Imovie when i had never used apple software before , after practice and trying out different things i became rather efficient when using it and found i was able to finish things quickly but to a high standard, I also learnt how different camera shots and certain editing can change the entire sequence of the film and keep the audience interacted. Finally i also learnt how to look for certain music that would fit to what was going on , on screen and how different music can effect the mood that you are trying to create.
Looking back at your preliminary task , what do you feel you have learnt in the progression from it to the full product?
Since my preliminary task, I have learnt various things not only in the production and development but learning of new skills and the use of equipment that i maybe not used to , i also realised the importance of team work and co-operation and how effects the pace and standard in which you get things completed and i feel that we as a group tackled this rather well after little adjustment. In the editing of our preliminary task some of our shots were left and held for too long. This was not the case in our thriller but i feel that there maybe could of been a bit more dialog because on the first watch some may be confused of the plot of the thriller. In order, to keep the audience interested we had to ensured that shots were not held in one spot for longer than 3 seconds so it did not drag on. In the are of editing I learnt how to add various effects and how it can change the mood of what is going on . Also, I thought that it was important to include a range of different shots that would help enhance what was going on. I feel that by planning it thoroughly we were able to complete it rather quickly and therefore had more time to edit and go back and change things if need be due to the time we had left this seemed to work very well.
Research into thriller genres
We decided to research into the thriller genre with more detail, looking for a type of thriller that we could draw inspiration from, and we found that there were many different types of sub-genre, which can also combine together to create a very diverse film.
This is the research we found;
Action thriller: In which the work often features a race against the clock, contains lots of violence, and an obvious antagonist. These films usually contain large amounts of guns, explosions, and large elaborate set pieces for the action to take place. These films often have elements of mystery films and crime films but these elements take a backseat to action. Notable examples are the James Bond Films, The Transporter, and the Jason Bourne novels and films.
Conspiracy Thriller: In which the hero/heroine confronts a large, powerful group of enemies whose true extent only he/she recognizes. The Chancellor Manuscript and The Aquitane Progression by Robert Ludlom fall into this category, as do films such as Three Days of the Condor, Capricorn One, and JFK.
Crime thriller: This particular genre is a hybrid type of both crime films and thrillers that offers a suspenseful account of a successful or failed crime or crimes. These films often focus on the criminal(s) rather than a policeman. Crime thrillers usually emphasize action over psychological aspects. Central topics of these films include murders, robberies, chases, shootouts, and double-crosses are central ingredients. Some examples include The Killing, Seven and The Godfather.
Disaster thriller: In which the main conflict is due to some sort of natural or artificial disaster, such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanoes, etc., or nuclear disasters as an artificial disaster. Examples include Stormy Weather by Carl Hiassen, Tremor by Winston Graham, and the 1974 film Earthquake.
Drama thriller: In which the story consists of the elements of a thriller and drama film. These films are usually slower paced and involves a great deal of character development along with plot twists. Examples include The Illusionist, The Interpreter and The Prestige.
Erotic Thriller: In which the protagonist must avert or rectify an environmental or biological calamity_often in addition to dealing with the usual types of enemies or obstacles present in other thriller genres. This environmental component often forms a central message or theme of the story. Examples include Nicholas Evans's The Loop, C. George Muller's Echoes in the Blue, and Wilbur Smith's Elephant Song, all of which highlight real-life environmental issues.
In which it consists of erotica and thriller. It has become popular since the 1980s and the rise of VCR market penetration. The genre includes such films as Basic Instinct, Dressed to Kill, Colour of Night, Eyes Wide Shut, Fatal Attraction, Looking for Mr.Goodbar and In the Cut.
Horror thriller: In which conflict between the main characters are mental, emotional, and physical. Two recent examples of this include the Saw Series of films and the Danny Boyle's 28 Days Later. What sets the horror thriller apart is the main element of fear throughout the story. The main character(s) is not only up against a superior force, but they are or will soon become the victims themselves and directly feel the fear that comes by attracting the monster's attention. Other well-known examples are Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho and Thomas Harris's The Silence of the Lambs.
Legal thriller: In which the lawyer-heroes/heroines confront enemies outside, as well as inside, the courtroom and are in danger of losing not only their cases but their lives. The Innocent Man by John Grisham is a well known example of the type.
Medical thriller: In which the hero/heroine are medical doctors/personnel working to solve an expanding medical problem. Robin Cook, Tess Gerritsen, Michael Crichton, and Gary Braver are well-known authors of this subgenre. Nonfiction medical thrillers are also a subcategory, comprising works like The Hot Zone by Richard Preston. Films such as Awake are other examples of medical thrillers.
Political thriller: In which the hero/heroine must ensure the stability of the government that employs him. The success of Seven Days in May (1962) by Fletcher Knebel, The Day of the Jackal (1971) by Frederick Forsyth, and The Manchurian Candidate (1959) by Richard Condon established this subgenre. A more recent example is the 1980 film Agency.
Psychological thriller: In which (until the often violent resolution) the conflict between the main characters is mental and emotional, rather than physical. The Alfred Hitchcock films Suspicion, Shadow of a Doubt, and Strangers on a Train and David Lynch's bizarre and influential Blue Velvet are notable examples of the type, as is The Sixth Sense by M. Night Shyamalan and The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith (who also wrote Strangers).
Spy thriller (also a subgenre of spy fiction): In which the hero is generally a government agent who must take violent action against agents of a rival government or (in recent years) terrorists. Examples include From Russia with Love by Ian Fleming, The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum, and television series such as Mission: Impossible and 24 (the latter demonstrating a break from the norm by Robert Ludlum, as it is as much a psychological thriller as a spy thriller).
Supernatural thriller: In which the conflict is between main characters, usually one of which has supernatural powers. Carrie by Stephen King, Unbreakable by M. Night Shyamalan, and Torchwood are notable examples of this genre. This type of thriller combines tension of the regular thriller with such basic horror oriented ingredients as ghosts, the occult, and psychic phenomenon; the supernatural thriller combines these with a frightening but often restrained film. They also generally eschew the more graphic elements of the horror film in favor of sustaining a mood of menace and unpredictability; supernatural thrillers often find the protagonists either battling a malevolent paranormal force or trapped in a situation seemingly influenced or controlled by an other-worldly entity beyond their comprehension.
Techno-thriller: A work that usually focuses upon military action, in which technology (usually military technology) is described in detail and made essential to the reader's/viewer's understanding of the plot. Tom Clancy defined and popularized the genre with his The Hunt for Red October, and is considered to be the "Father of the Technothriller".
Most thrillers are formed in some combination of the above, with horror, conspiracy, and psychological tricks used most commonly to heighten tension.
This is the research we found;
Action thriller: In which the work often features a race against the clock, contains lots of violence, and an obvious antagonist. These films usually contain large amounts of guns, explosions, and large elaborate set pieces for the action to take place. These films often have elements of mystery films and crime films but these elements take a backseat to action. Notable examples are the James Bond Films, The Transporter, and the Jason Bourne novels and films.
Conspiracy Thriller: In which the hero/heroine confronts a large, powerful group of enemies whose true extent only he/she recognizes. The Chancellor Manuscript and The Aquitane Progression by Robert Ludlom fall into this category, as do films such as Three Days of the Condor, Capricorn One, and JFK.
Crime thriller: This particular genre is a hybrid type of both crime films and thrillers that offers a suspenseful account of a successful or failed crime or crimes. These films often focus on the criminal(s) rather than a policeman. Crime thrillers usually emphasize action over psychological aspects. Central topics of these films include murders, robberies, chases, shootouts, and double-crosses are central ingredients. Some examples include The Killing, Seven and The Godfather.
Disaster thriller: In which the main conflict is due to some sort of natural or artificial disaster, such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanoes, etc., or nuclear disasters as an artificial disaster. Examples include Stormy Weather by Carl Hiassen, Tremor by Winston Graham, and the 1974 film Earthquake.
Drama thriller: In which the story consists of the elements of a thriller and drama film. These films are usually slower paced and involves a great deal of character development along with plot twists. Examples include The Illusionist, The Interpreter and The Prestige.
Erotic Thriller: In which the protagonist must avert or rectify an environmental or biological calamity_often in addition to dealing with the usual types of enemies or obstacles present in other thriller genres. This environmental component often forms a central message or theme of the story. Examples include Nicholas Evans's The Loop, C. George Muller's Echoes in the Blue, and Wilbur Smith's Elephant Song, all of which highlight real-life environmental issues.
In which it consists of erotica and thriller. It has become popular since the 1980s and the rise of VCR market penetration. The genre includes such films as Basic Instinct, Dressed to Kill, Colour of Night, Eyes Wide Shut, Fatal Attraction, Looking for Mr.Goodbar and In the Cut.
Horror thriller: In which conflict between the main characters are mental, emotional, and physical. Two recent examples of this include the Saw Series of films and the Danny Boyle's 28 Days Later. What sets the horror thriller apart is the main element of fear throughout the story. The main character(s) is not only up against a superior force, but they are or will soon become the victims themselves and directly feel the fear that comes by attracting the monster's attention. Other well-known examples are Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho and Thomas Harris's The Silence of the Lambs.
Legal thriller: In which the lawyer-heroes/heroines confront enemies outside, as well as inside, the courtroom and are in danger of losing not only their cases but their lives. The Innocent Man by John Grisham is a well known example of the type.
Medical thriller: In which the hero/heroine are medical doctors/personnel working to solve an expanding medical problem. Robin Cook, Tess Gerritsen, Michael Crichton, and Gary Braver are well-known authors of this subgenre. Nonfiction medical thrillers are also a subcategory, comprising works like The Hot Zone by Richard Preston. Films such as Awake are other examples of medical thrillers.
Political thriller: In which the hero/heroine must ensure the stability of the government that employs him. The success of Seven Days in May (1962) by Fletcher Knebel, The Day of the Jackal (1971) by Frederick Forsyth, and The Manchurian Candidate (1959) by Richard Condon established this subgenre. A more recent example is the 1980 film Agency.
Psychological thriller: In which (until the often violent resolution) the conflict between the main characters is mental and emotional, rather than physical. The Alfred Hitchcock films Suspicion, Shadow of a Doubt, and Strangers on a Train and David Lynch's bizarre and influential Blue Velvet are notable examples of the type, as is The Sixth Sense by M. Night Shyamalan and The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith (who also wrote Strangers).
Spy thriller (also a subgenre of spy fiction): In which the hero is generally a government agent who must take violent action against agents of a rival government or (in recent years) terrorists. Examples include From Russia with Love by Ian Fleming, The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum, and television series such as Mission: Impossible and 24 (the latter demonstrating a break from the norm by Robert Ludlum, as it is as much a psychological thriller as a spy thriller).
Supernatural thriller: In which the conflict is between main characters, usually one of which has supernatural powers. Carrie by Stephen King, Unbreakable by M. Night Shyamalan, and Torchwood are notable examples of this genre. This type of thriller combines tension of the regular thriller with such basic horror oriented ingredients as ghosts, the occult, and psychic phenomenon; the supernatural thriller combines these with a frightening but often restrained film. They also generally eschew the more graphic elements of the horror film in favor of sustaining a mood of menace and unpredictability; supernatural thrillers often find the protagonists either battling a malevolent paranormal force or trapped in a situation seemingly influenced or controlled by an other-worldly entity beyond their comprehension.
Techno-thriller: A work that usually focuses upon military action, in which technology (usually military technology) is described in detail and made essential to the reader's/viewer's understanding of the plot. Tom Clancy defined and popularized the genre with his The Hunt for Red October, and is considered to be the "Father of the Technothriller".
Most thrillers are formed in some combination of the above, with horror, conspiracy, and psychological tricks used most commonly to heighten tension.
Synopsis for ''Addicted''
The aim for the opening of this thriller is to disorientate the viewer and to introduce the main characters. In this the audience are introduced to a blonde girl in a rural setting played by Beth Walton, who is obviously involved in drugs (which is one of the main themes within the film), Robin, who is her friend is murdered, and Beth’s alter ego, Hannah Fyfe (this however remains unknown in the rest of the film). In the credits it shows the audience clips of drugs, alcohol and smoking; 3 things that are associated with today’s youth. The drugs and the alcohol are the main focus of the film.
In the rest of the film you see how the lead character has been introduced into the way of life and the psychological effects it has on her. At the end it turns out she has developed schizophrenia and has an alter ego, which kills Robin.
In the rest of the film you see how the lead character has been introduced into the way of life and the psychological effects it has on her. At the end it turns out she has developed schizophrenia and has an alter ego, which kills Robin.
Thursday 29 April 2010
Wednesday 28 April 2010
Plan for filming
Day 1: Milford
Location: Milford Common
Props Needed: Bike, Over The Shoulder Bag, Headphones, Mobile Phone, Small Bag of Icing Sugar and a Bottle of Vodka.
Equipment Needed: Car (for tracking shot), Tripod, Dolly, Ply sheets (for Vertigo Shot) and Camera
Actors required: Beth Walton and Robin Mountford
Day 2: Dream Sequence and Death
Location: Hills of Dundee, Canal and the Woods
Props Needed: Knife, Phone and Red Food Dye
Equipment Needed: Camera, Dolly, Tripod, Ply Sheets for smooth Tracking shots
Actors Required: Beth Walton, Robin Mountford and Hannah Fyfe
Day 3: Credits
Location: Hannah’s House and Outside
Props Needed: Pint Glasses, Shot Glasses, A collection of alcohol, Icing Sugar, Credit Card, Make Up, House Keys, Cup Of Soup and a Cigarette
Equipment Needed: Camera and Tripod
Actors Required: Hannah Fyfe and Matt Marlow
Location: Milford Common
Props Needed: Bike, Over The Shoulder Bag, Headphones, Mobile Phone, Small Bag of Icing Sugar and a Bottle of Vodka.
Equipment Needed: Car (for tracking shot), Tripod, Dolly, Ply sheets (for Vertigo Shot) and Camera
Actors required: Beth Walton and Robin Mountford
Day 2: Dream Sequence and Death
Location: Hills of Dundee, Canal and the Woods
Props Needed: Knife, Phone and Red Food Dye
Equipment Needed: Camera, Dolly, Tripod, Ply Sheets for smooth Tracking shots
Actors Required: Beth Walton, Robin Mountford and Hannah Fyfe
Day 3: Credits
Location: Hannah’s House and Outside
Props Needed: Pint Glasses, Shot Glasses, A collection of alcohol, Icing Sugar, Credit Card, Make Up, House Keys, Cup Of Soup and a Cigarette
Equipment Needed: Camera and Tripod
Actors Required: Hannah Fyfe and Matt Marlow
Saturday 24 April 2010
Costume and make up
Main Costume
To create a scence of normality i chose costumes that are casual wear and would not draw any unnecessary attention towards the chareters.
For the main charecter of the boy i chose a hooded zipper , plain white tshirt , checked shirt and skinny jeans .His clothes make his character stand out even from a distance. His hair especially makes him stand out as an "out there" character. His clothes and hair, would lead the audience to believe that he is into drugs and alcohol, which many teenagers are associated with.
For the main charecter of the girl i chose a black leather bomber jacket , floral smock dress and plain black tights .the idea of chosing this particular outfir was to convey an innocent character, who would not be a usual suspect for murder.
These are very casual, non-descript clothes that are quite implacable and don't suggset too much about the character or setting. This allows the audience to completely focus on the murder, and also implies that it could be any ordinary person that could be the victim, creating tension and suspense in the scene and amongst the audience.
Make Up
Also with the make up we tried to show a scence of normality with in the female charecter and for it to appear that she was your average teenager therefore to match the out fit we chose feminie neutral colours to convay a scence of innocents, the idea was that on first glance of the charecter her appearnce would not let on that she was a stereotypical drug addict.
Hannah And Credits
On the first appearance of hannahs character, she is also dressed in clothes similar to Beth. This is because her character is meant to be Beth's alter ego, the similar clothes would give a hint to the audience that our characters are connected in some way.
In Hannahs second appearance in the credits she is showing a representation of a teenage girl going on a night out. she is dressed in a black short skirt, black tights, a black boobtube and black high heels. Also, the darkness of my outfit shows the darkness of my character. Hannahs make up is being done on screen, to show the amount of care and effort that teenagers put into their appearance.
In Hannahs final appearance, she is seen in a state, showing the contrast between what she looked like earlier. Also, it shows the out of control side of Beth's character and the addictions she is involved in.
Tuesday 20 April 2010
Music Ideas
Music in thrillers is usually used to create suspense and tension, also it more often than not to give a indication of when something is going to happen. However, in my thriller I initially wanted to give indication to the characters life style and personality. Also, something that would tie into what was actually occurring on screen. Through this it leads the character into a false sense of security as the will not be expecting anything to happen. In addition to this, we would like it to seem to the audience that the main character is listening to the music as well.
We listened to a number of soundtracks and shot listed some to listen to again.We listened to the short list whilst watching some of our filmed footage, and some pieces of music had a too fast pace over all and others didn't have the right sense of tension.
Possible ideas are : Nine in the Afternoon: Panic!At the Disco
After Every Party I Die: IAMX
Time To Pretend: MGMT
In the second section, I'd like to use a change of music to indicate to the change in her state of mind. With this music this is when i want to try and build up tension, and start to indicate to my audience that something not right is going on. Also, this music will have to continue to the credits and also have an rave feel.
Possible ideas are: Born Slippy: Underworld
Insomnia: Faithless
Through the Loop: Pendulum
We listened to a number of soundtracks and shot listed some to listen to again.We listened to the short list whilst watching some of our filmed footage, and some pieces of music had a too fast pace over all and others didn't have the right sense of tension.
Possible ideas are : Nine in the Afternoon: Panic!At the Disco
After Every Party I Die: IAMX
Time To Pretend: MGMT
In the second section, I'd like to use a change of music to indicate to the change in her state of mind. With this music this is when i want to try and build up tension, and start to indicate to my audience that something not right is going on. Also, this music will have to continue to the credits and also have an rave feel.
Possible ideas are: Born Slippy: Underworld
Insomnia: Faithless
Through the Loop: Pendulum
Saturday 17 April 2010
British Board of Film Classification
The BBFC rates theatrically-released films, and rated videos and video games that forfeited exemption from the Video Recordings Act 1984, which was discovered in August 2009 to be unenforceable until the act was re-enacted as the Video Recordings Act 2010. Legally, local authorities have the power to decide under what circumstances films are shown in cinemas, but they nearly always choose to follow the advice of the BBFC.
Generally most thrillers are classed as 15 or 18's so this would be in line with the type of audience we would be targeting and make it suitable for their viewing.'15' – Suitable only for 15 years and overNo-one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema.No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video or DVD.ThemeNo theme is prohibited, provided the treatment is appropriate to 15 year olds.LanguageThere may be frequent use of strong language (eg 'fuck'). But the strongest terms (eg 'cunt') will be acceptable only where justified by the context. Continued aggressive use of the strongest language is unlikely to be acceptable.NudityNudity may be allowed in a sexual context but without strong detail. There are no constraints on nudity in a non-sexual or educational context.SexSexual activity may be portrayed but without strong detail. There may be strong verbal references to sexual behaviour.ViolenceViolence may be strong but may not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury. Scenes of sexual violence must be discreet and brief.Imitable techniquesDangerous techniques (eg combat, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on imitable detail. Easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised.HorrorStrong threat and menace are permitted. The strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable.DrugsDrug taking may be shown but the film as a whole must not promote or encourage drug misuse.'18' – Suitable only for adultsNo-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema.No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video.In line with the consistent findings of the BBFC's public consultations, at '18' the BBFC's guideline concerns will not normally override the wish that adults should be free to chose their own entertainment, within the law. Exceptions are most likely in the following areas:Where material or treatment appears to the Board to risk harm to individuals or, through their behaviour, to society – e.g. any detailed portrayal of violent or dangerous acts, or of illegal drug use, which is likely to promote the activity. The Board may also intervene with portrayals of sexual violence which might, e.g. eroticise or endorse sexual assault.The more explicit images of sexual activity – unless they can be exceptionally justified by context and the work is not a 'sex work' as defined below.In the case of videos and DVDs, which may be more accessible to younger viewers, intervention may be more frequent. For the same reason, and because of the different way in which they are experienced, the Board may take a more precautionary approach in the case of those digital games which are covered by the Video Recordings Act.
Continuity piece
In our continuity piece we tried to explore a variety of shots, most of which included straight angle shots but we did manage to incorporate some low angle shots as well. Although it is relatively short, it does incorporate all the necessary components required for the exam board. An improvement which could be made is to edit out the overlap of voices. However, if we did this, there would be a sudden jump, thus meaning it would lack continuity. Despite this and the smile at the end, which did not reflect the mood we were trying to establish I feel for a first attempt it was a success.
If the video doesn't work above here is the link : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtGu7UuPNvQ
List of props used
- Bike
- Knife
- Headphones
- Vodka bottle
- Small plastic resealable bag
- Various glass types
- Bag
- Other alcohol types (Credits)
Conventions of a Thriller
A thriller is a film or book genre which follows specific devices in order to build up tension withing an audience.
In many thriller genre films the story is usually focused around a crime , many thriller films also revolve around a serial killer on the loose or some kind of murders taking place. The idea of thriller films try to convey alot of action in order to keep the audience interacted these will often involve unexpected things to occur in what seem an ordinary situation.
Throughout every genre of film music is used to establish the tonality of films, thrillers are no different. Thrillers’ music often focuses around a singular melodic idea, which is either repeated for an indicator of suspense or developed into a full piece of music. They are often very simplistic melodies with clashing dischordal harmonies. These melodies are often what directors rely on to create the suspense rather that what’s going on in the film. A famous example of this is Psycho - throughout the entire film, the music is based around the sharp violins that go in time with the stabbing motion.
In thrillers the plots always consist of some kind of deception, be it through a Mcguffin, or deception of character. Psycho shows both of these conventions through the use of the money to motivate the plot and the character of Norman Bates turning out to be a schizophrenic. Due to the plot always having twists it keeps the audience focused and on edge. Also, it keeps the audience questioning what’s going on, often disorientating the viewer through the misleading hints throughout the film.
Saturday 3 April 2010
Sunday 28 March 2010
In what ways does "Taking lives" conform to or subvert what you consider to be the forms and conventions of the thriller genre?
The first factor that is typically found in thriller films is the idea ofcreating suspense and tension in most scenes. This can be portrayed in many ways, for example by the use of music and sound effects can enphasise something happening in a scene. for example if it shows Someone creeping behind some else usually there will be some kind of eary tense music being played to create suspence amoung the audiance."Taking Lives" uses the concept of using music and sound effects to createsuspense a lot which grips the audience and keeps the film interesting. it isimportant to try and create suspence within a thriller because it is one of the key factors in a thriller film . It is also important to create a twisted plot that will keep the audiance on the edge of thir seats and aslo guessing where the plot will go , alot of thrillers create storys where the endings are least expected.alot of thrillers make the audiance question about certain charecters and their role in the story the audiance may often be confussed of certain charecters motives which also create tension becuase they are unsure what is going to happen . ceratin camera shots can also create Suspense and tension in certain scenes for example a fast tracking shot of someone one running can create suspense because it would be clear that they are clearly in danger and runnging from something. Also a long shot showing the charecter from behind could make it seem as if some one may be watching them . In "Taking Lives" the suspension is created with constant mystery of mulitple killings during the film where there are several people who you suspect to be the killer. within the film there are many scences of gory unpleasnat murders that all link together which keeps the audiance guessing and trying to work out why they are doing this .
The protagonists are the key element to telling the story and creating all these emotions we feel when watching the film. Usually in typical thrillers they are very intelligent but they also have weaknesses. We feel less inferior to them because it shows that even those classed as ‘heroes’ and the physically superior have faults and weaknesses and sometimes a feeling of vulnerability in certain situtaions this enables us to relate to them and feel empathy towards them. The characters need to be believable for any film to work, we need to be able to connect and relate to them in order to believe them.
One of the ways in which 'taking lives' subverts to the thriller genre is through using a female lead , in taking lives the main charecter (Jolie) is an attractive , indipendant , hard working woman who through the story of twists and turns ends up being the 'hero'. in some scenes Jolie's charecter faces some difficult and disturbing situations which show strong emotions , and plays these parts very well beucase we are able to connect with her emotions. This allows us to feel the emotions she is, and feel the tension, anxiety, and sympathy for example. She shows to sides of character; a strong-willed, independent and intelligent woman, and then we are given glimpses of her softer and more feminine side. The way this is portrayed is very effective and allows us to connect with her more. All good thrillers have protagonists that are able to do this, however Taking Lives seems to take it to a higher level than the normal typical thriller due to the female lead.
Taking lives is based a lot on psychology and playing with the audience’s minds. A lot of thrillers use red herrings, cliff hangers and twists. Taking Lives also plenty of these, with extra unexpected twists at the end. You are taken into the minds of each character which really leaves the audiance thinking what is going to happen next , you get a feel and insight into Angelina’s character and her confusion and feelings that she faces when dealing with this case especially when she becomes attatched to the main suspect which is also an unepected turn that 'taking lives' also takes. but also get a feel of the character Martin. Martin has a usual but interesting way of thinking and we are able to explore this. Human nature plays a big role within the portrayal of the film. With Martin being a psychopath and sociopath, his thoughts are obviously completely different to others around him and the audiance are able to pick up on his changing behaviour that is quite obvious . This is a huge contrast to Angelina’s character; which is very strong minded, independent, and intelligent and we again see her more feminine side in context to human nature.
Even though in the final scene where she is only acting to be pregnant, she shows signs of maternal instincts, and this is a great mix and contrast to her character that makes her so believable and relatable ,when the charecter of martin shows up you are left feeling exstremely empathetic towards jolie because the audiance are left wondering what will happen to the 'pregnant' charecter which really keeps the audiance on the edge of there seats.The contrast of characters is something you see in many thrillers and gives it a very important element to the film.
The most important element to any thriller is the climax; where the ‘hero’ defeats the villain, . Thrillers tend to be more about the climax than the actual solving of the crime that has taken place, thrillers go into alot of detail that actually surround the crime such as a storyline that may go along with the killings which usually result in the reasons why. Taking lives certainly seem to do this a it goes on. Taking Lives is a thriller that affects you more mentally and therefore does not contain alot of action scences this is sometimes the case in thrillers that they are more foccused on creating suspence and leaving the audiance to make assumptions rather than using action to create impact. Although that there are not very many action scences within taking lives Caruso creates impact very well in his story line and unexpected events that occur throughout .
In conclusion it is clear that Taking Lives conforms to the thriller genre very well, but also has elements in which it subverts to the usual thriller genre , these subverting elements give Taking Lives its own take on the thriller genre but is still recognisable by the audience in the way in which certain events are completly unexpected . The mixture that Caruso has created in both Taking Lives work very well and are very effective.
Inspriation
After this research we were very drawn to the;Psychological thriller: In which (until the often violent resolution) the conflict between the main characters is mental and emotional, rather than physical. The Alfred Hitchcock films Suspicion, Shadow of a Doubt, and Strangers on a Train and David Lynch's bizarre and influential Blue Velvet are notable examples of the type, as is The Sixth Sense by M. Night Shyamalan and The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith (who also wrote Strangers).We did not wish to use violence in our piece, we simply wanted to use psychological effects to play with the audience.We wish to settle the audience before introducing an unsettling feeling. We wanted the atmosphere to be calm but also to be creating tension as it progressed. twist at the end of our opening, hopefully will leave the audience wanting to continue to watch the film.
Tuesday 16 March 2010
Analysis of 'Se7en' Opening Credits
The opening sequence for the film 'Se7en' is highly effective. Thisopening sequence is itself very enigmatic. The shots used are all close ups of different objects, as a person does something. We are not shown details of this persons face, and it is difficult to piece together exactly what is going on. The use of consistent close up shots build up a feeling of obsession. This enables the film to develop and give the audience a sense of what is going to be happening at the start of the film. The font used, is very non conformist, it is scribbly, and not faded in and out slowly, but rather the text flashes, mirrors and mvoes around. This technique also strengthens the connotations of the genre. Because of the large number of close ups, the audience are left gripped , wondering what this person is doing. Thus i think this is an extremely effective opening sequence. The music also matches the title effects, and disorientates the audience even more.
Tuesday 23 February 2010
Still Shots
close up Straight angle 
High close up angle
close up 
Extreme close up 
Over the shoulder , medium high 
Long shot , straight angle
Low angle , medium shot 
High angle , medium shot Sunday 21 February 2010
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