Evaluation

I began this project by writing an essay on my strengths and weaknesses, I highlighted all of the aspects of filmmaking that I’m good at. My editing skills, my attention to detail when researching topics to discuss and have exponential directing abilities. I then talked about my various weaknesses, such as Scriptwriting, Camera work and sound design and how I could possibly turn these weaknesses into strengths to help me push myself and my work. This helped me put into perspective just how many skills I’ve developed throughout this course. And also what I could work on for future projects.

I began researching film practitioners who worked in the fields I struggled in to see how they perfect their craft and see If I could use their techniques in my own work. One of my biggest weaknesses was narratively driven script writing, So I decided to research the writing style of Jordan Peele who wrote 2017’s ‘Get Out’. I liked how he found a balance between creating suspense, drama, and comedy. Some thriller films become watered down when comedy is added into the mix. I wanted to emulate Peele’s writing style however still maintaining my own style embedded within.

I then researched for some editors and cameramen as both of those roles in filmmaking can be quite challenging. I then recalled the filming and editing style of ‘Birdman’ and how much I admired the techniques used. I began finding out more about the editors Douglas Crise and Stephen Mirrione so I could have a better understanding of their editing style. I studied breakdowns of their editing practices and how they used their surroundings to help create the illusion of a single shot.

When I began filming I knew I wanted to incorporate the techniques I learnt while researching the editing style used in Birdman. I took some test shots before I started filming properly so I could have a rough idea on how I’d shoot and edit my final video. It was really helpful to practice what I was going to shoot as this technique is quite challenging. The final shoot went by swiftly as I had already experimented with different shots. When it came to editing the raw footage I did have to research how to create a dream-like effect, It was fairly simple as I followed a tutorial and was able to finish the rough edit in one day. I then recorded my voice over after I had finished filming so the audio could fit the visuals better. I recorded my V.O on my phone in an airtight space so I could get a clear recording as I attempted recording with the microphone, however, there was a lot of background noise and I couldn’t get complete silence in the room the Mic was in. I added in the voiceover, making sure it synced up well with the video and finally added in some royalty free music to pull everything together.

This project has enabled me to delve into fields I wouldn’t usually go into and improve in areas I’ve struggled in. I believe this will be helpful for future projects as I’ve turned my weaknesses into something positive.

 

Feedback:

” I enjoyed the beginning half as I appreciated the suspense that was created”. – Hannah