Dallas buyers club was a movie centered around people who had contracted the HIV virus and in some cases had turned to AIDS. It was set at a time when it was commonly thought that the virus was only contracted between two gay men. Although there was not as much open hatred for the gays, it was still commonplace for people to hid their sexual orientation. When the main character, a straight male, is told he only has a month to live due to AIDS, he receives a lot of criticism and stereotyping from those who know him.
He is outcasted and has to find his own means to survive. He makes new friends due to his condition, one of whom is a transgender named Rayon. Rayon is played by Jared Leto, who does an absolutely amazing job. In this film, he manages to be a prettier girl than myself. He really seems to be living the part, as if he was truly born as this person. He may be what makes the film so special. His relationship with the main character, Ron, played by Mathew McConaughey, also adds to the emotional attachment viewers have with the movie. It is truly moving how their friendship starts and ends.
Dallas Buyers Club brought awareness to something that to this day, people are discriminated against. It shows the battle that people encounter as they live with this virus. It also gives a bit of history in it, showing how people thought that is was a disease only for gay men. It also shows the history of the medication being used to treat it. The movie makes the viewer feel compassion for a group of people who are cast out by others, because of a disease they are inflicted with. It makes one realize that there is little that could be done when such a small amount of awareness is enlightened onto the public.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Dexter
I've been watching dexter on Netflix, not having seen any of the series as it aired. There are eight season. I am only on the third. Dexter, so far, is a show I think might become one of my favorites. It is very technical and insightful where the law and determining murder cases is concerned. However, because it is so technical, when it is not, I notice.
The first thing that I would like to point out is that Dexter is always on top of not getting caught. he uses latex gloves at ever crime scene, to make sure not to leave evidence. One thing bothers me about this. He is so cautious, even though he leaves his footprints EVERYWHERE. Having seen various real life murder cases in which a criminal or suspect was brought down because of their footprints, this really irks me. How can someone who is so careful be so lazy? I thought maybe it is just something that was too technical to bring up, even for a technical show and stopped bugging myself over it. Until one episode. One episode in which they brought down a criminal due to footprints...
The other thing that really bothers me that takes place in the show is during Dexters 'rituals', when he kills people. He puts up pictures of the victims that they have killed so that they can see why he is killing them. Only sometimes, the pictures are completely out of view to Dexters victim. It may not be that big of a deal, but if he is trying to make a point, doesn't them actually seeing the pictures have importance?
Other than those two things, the show is great and I love it. I can't wait to finish the series and see if they fix these flaws as well!
The first thing that I would like to point out is that Dexter is always on top of not getting caught. he uses latex gloves at ever crime scene, to make sure not to leave evidence. One thing bothers me about this. He is so cautious, even though he leaves his footprints EVERYWHERE. Having seen various real life murder cases in which a criminal or suspect was brought down because of their footprints, this really irks me. How can someone who is so careful be so lazy? I thought maybe it is just something that was too technical to bring up, even for a technical show and stopped bugging myself over it. Until one episode. One episode in which they brought down a criminal due to footprints...
The other thing that really bothers me that takes place in the show is during Dexters 'rituals', when he kills people. He puts up pictures of the victims that they have killed so that they can see why he is killing them. Only sometimes, the pictures are completely out of view to Dexters victim. It may not be that big of a deal, but if he is trying to make a point, doesn't them actually seeing the pictures have importance?
Other than those two things, the show is great and I love it. I can't wait to finish the series and see if they fix these flaws as well!
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Water for Elephants
I'm sick of watching the typical love story movies. The one's about a guy and a girl, both in their twenties, living in the city, who become friends or date, then have a huge fight, and then end up back together in the end. They're predicable. So I decided to watch Water for Elephants. It's a 2011 film directed by Francis Lawrence, about a circus vet. It stars Robert Pattinson,
Reese Witherspoon and Christoph Waltz.
I think the reason I liked it was because the whole film was a flashback. I feel like a lot of films don't take advantage of flashbacks. It's interesting to see a characters back story. It's also cool how it's set in the early 30's at a circus. Just by choosing a circus, you already know that there will be a lot of color, light, and music.
I think the director did a good decision with the music soundtrack. Throughout a majority of the movie there is music but it's all different types. He made good decisions when it came to when to play certain melodies. At about the 38:30 mark, when Jacob is about to be thrown off the train, the strings playing in the background added to the suspense of the situation.
Another thing I enjoyed that was different about this film, was after the flashback, the character ended up where he started. He started in a circus when he was growing up, and the movie ends with him getting back into another one. Also the amount of animals used in this film was cool. It had all different circus acts; lions, hyenas, horses, elephants, etc. Many times films only take advantage of one type of animal or even just dogs and cats, or when they have a lot of animals, they're animated, but this movie, they're real and interact with the people.
I think the reason I liked it was because the whole film was a flashback. I feel like a lot of films don't take advantage of flashbacks. It's interesting to see a characters back story. It's also cool how it's set in the early 30's at a circus. Just by choosing a circus, you already know that there will be a lot of color, light, and music.
I think the director did a good decision with the music soundtrack. Throughout a majority of the movie there is music but it's all different types. He made good decisions when it came to when to play certain melodies. At about the 38:30 mark, when Jacob is about to be thrown off the train, the strings playing in the background added to the suspense of the situation.
Another thing I enjoyed that was different about this film, was after the flashback, the character ended up where he started. He started in a circus when he was growing up, and the movie ends with him getting back into another one. Also the amount of animals used in this film was cool. It had all different circus acts; lions, hyenas, horses, elephants, etc. Many times films only take advantage of one type of animal or even just dogs and cats, or when they have a lot of animals, they're animated, but this movie, they're real and interact with the people.
Monday, May 12, 2014
Sunday, May 11, 2014
Friday, May 9, 2014
Project 1 Final
My Final Project for Project 1. I didn't have time to reshoot this one, so i worked with what I had. But i played with the exposure and some coloring. I liked how it came out.
(Recreated)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7C2oOOdaIGA&feature=youtu.be
Original Scene (Start at 0:08)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wb6aP0Q2tc
project 1 final
This is the original:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgcRsQOITsw
This is the recreation:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvY-8Qgikf0&feature=youtu.be
Have a good summer everyone!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgcRsQOITsw
This is the recreation:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvY-8Qgikf0&feature=youtu.be
Have a good summer everyone!
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Final Projects 1 + 2
Here are my two final projects. Have a good summer everyone! :)
Project 1:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cm43p0FcrKE
Project 2:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yan5SW1DCHk
Project 1:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cm43p0FcrKE
Project 2:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yan5SW1DCHk
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
The REAL Final of "The Send-off"
Unfortunately the copy I posted perviously had quite a bit of errors from when I rendered it.
This is the REAL final of my project 2, please enjoy, sorry for the confusion!
THANK YOU!
This is the REAL final of my project 2, please enjoy, sorry for the confusion!
THANK YOU!
Wolf Of Wall Street
I had the DVD for the Wolf of WallStreet for ever but hadn't watched it till recently, and after all the hype over this movie i figured i should check it out. There was a lot about this movie i loved. First being the cinematography, this whole movie from the hairstyles, to the language and slang of the time was so on point. I really felt like they brought you back to the time period they were trying to remake. The performances were another thing i loved, Loe is an amazing actor and always has been, he really took this character over but still was able to bring out a little bit of his own style. Although i do like the way this was edited i felt like the storyline seemed to drag on. I also felt like some scenes were a little repetitive like they could have taken out one drug or sex scene. I know they were trying to get a point across that he became a huge partier and drug addict but it started to bore me at points. I would recommend this movie because it is based on true events and throughout the movie i had to remind myself that all those events happened, making the film much more interesting.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
The Sendoff
Final Cut, Project 2.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNCdbll6JRw&feature=youtu.be
Enjoy. This was a pleasure to create, thank you to everyone who helped make this happen.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNCdbll6JRw&feature=youtu.be
Enjoy. This was a pleasure to create, thank you to everyone who helped make this happen.
Lion King vs. Frozen
As I was scrolling through my news feed on Facebook, I came across an article on E! Online and it talked how The Lion King (1994) and Frozen (2013) are the same story. With The Lion King being my favorite Disney movie, I was interested to see what the article had to say.
Most of Disney's animated movies are similar: there is usually a princess, a funny sidekick, a villain, a conflict and then there's always a happy ending.
The first thing the article says is similar is the opening sequence. Both movies start with a cheery song that introduces the viewers to the movies vibe: a fictional kingdom of Arrendale and the African savannah. Both families are royals and both families are effected by a tragedy. In Frozen the parents are killed out at sea in a ship wreck, and in The Loin King the father is killed by his own brother. After the parents are gone, both main characters, Elsa and Simba run from their problems and sing songs about being free from their problems. Once they're gone, there's a villain trying to take over. Also the villains try to guilt Elsa and Simba using the same line with different subjects. "You killed your sister!" "You killed your father!" Then the heroes eventually make it home to make things better and everyone lives happily ever after.
After reading the article in full, I realized that the movies have similarities, but are definitely two different stories. However, it was interesting to see other people's perspectives on them.
Most of Disney's animated movies are similar: there is usually a princess, a funny sidekick, a villain, a conflict and then there's always a happy ending.
The first thing the article says is similar is the opening sequence. Both movies start with a cheery song that introduces the viewers to the movies vibe: a fictional kingdom of Arrendale and the African savannah. Both families are royals and both families are effected by a tragedy. In Frozen the parents are killed out at sea in a ship wreck, and in The Loin King the father is killed by his own brother. After the parents are gone, both main characters, Elsa and Simba run from their problems and sing songs about being free from their problems. Once they're gone, there's a villain trying to take over. Also the villains try to guilt Elsa and Simba using the same line with different subjects. "You killed your sister!" "You killed your father!" Then the heroes eventually make it home to make things better and everyone lives happily ever after.
After reading the article in full, I realized that the movies have similarities, but are definitely two different stories. However, it was interesting to see other people's perspectives on them.
Sweeney Todd
My roommate convinced me to watch a musical the other day called Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber on Fleet Street. It's directed by Tim Burton and starred Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter. It's a 2007 musical horror film based off the musical with the same name. The plot of the movie is an English barber and serial killer that kills his customers with the help of Mrs. Lovett. After he kills his victims, she uses them for her meat pies.
Like other Tim Burton films, this one was very dark and creepy. A majority of the film was either black, white or grey except for pops of color, either yellow, red or blue. The actors were all very pale and their eyes very dark. The skies were always dark and cloudy and the streets didn't have much color. The lighting was dull but effective. It added to the creepy feel that Burton was aiming for.
It was also interesting how he adds little bits of animation to his movies. For example, with this movie, a lot of the camera pans and zooms were animated. At about the 8:13 mark, the camera follows Depp's feet through a tunnel then it starts taking us through a journey through the town that lasts about twenty seconds. The audience passes a few people on the street but never long enough to tell whether they're real or not.
Over all I thought it was a cool movie, with a crazy concept. The only thing that I would change, is the loudness of the music while the characters are singing. Throughout the film, the sound is very sharp and precise, but then when they're singing, it was difficult for me to understand them. I'm not sure if it also was because they had accents, but I think that if the background was lowered just a little, it would be clearer.
Like other Tim Burton films, this one was very dark and creepy. A majority of the film was either black, white or grey except for pops of color, either yellow, red or blue. The actors were all very pale and their eyes very dark. The skies were always dark and cloudy and the streets didn't have much color. The lighting was dull but effective. It added to the creepy feel that Burton was aiming for.
It was also interesting how he adds little bits of animation to his movies. For example, with this movie, a lot of the camera pans and zooms were animated. At about the 8:13 mark, the camera follows Depp's feet through a tunnel then it starts taking us through a journey through the town that lasts about twenty seconds. The audience passes a few people on the street but never long enough to tell whether they're real or not.
Over all I thought it was a cool movie, with a crazy concept. The only thing that I would change, is the loudness of the music while the characters are singing. Throughout the film, the sound is very sharp and precise, but then when they're singing, it was difficult for me to understand them. I'm not sure if it also was because they had accents, but I think that if the background was lowered just a little, it would be clearer.
Monday, May 5, 2014
Final Submissions - Projects 1 & 2
And here they are. Hope you enjoy.
~ Project 1 ~
Original Scene - Office Space
Recreation - College Space
~ Project 2 ~
Finals
Project 1:
Original:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuKqQ6plZ_I
Recreation:
"Spider Man 2 Elevator Scene"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4CNUwZC49g&feature=youtu.be
I know they're facing the wrong way but the lighting wouldn't have worked the other way and I know the voices don't match but this was the best I could do.
Project 2:
"You're Still Beautiful"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNifQF8AOkA&feature=em-upload_owner
Original:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuKqQ6plZ_I
Recreation:
"Spider Man 2 Elevator Scene"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4CNUwZC49g&feature=youtu.be
I know they're facing the wrong way but the lighting wouldn't have worked the other way and I know the voices don't match but this was the best I could do.
Project 2:
"You're Still Beautiful"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNifQF8AOkA&feature=em-upload_owner
Behind Closed Doors Project 2 Final
I used the suggestions I was given when i posted my rough cut. I found a really nice steady piece of music to use throughout the entire thing. I was going to use another piece of music but I felt for what I was trying to show i only needed one.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4GJ4Ud9Ueo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4GJ4Ud9Ueo
The Conjuring Project 1 Final
Hi guys!
I added about three different eerie instrumental pieces to get the dramatic creepy feel.
Final Project:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=hTfo2panBUQ
Original Scene: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZfeDbToqLk
I added about three different eerie instrumental pieces to get the dramatic creepy feel.
Final Project:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=hTfo2panBUQ
Original Scene: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZfeDbToqLk
Sunday, May 4, 2014
FINAL PROJECTS - MOLLY MCKEE
PROJECT 1 FINAL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BGMi0zXKMA&feature=youtu.be
ORIGINAL SCENE FORM PRETTY LITTLE LIARS--- START AT 1:20
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5REQat2Tfs
PROJECT 2 FINAL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sssnbzeV5zg&feature=youtu.be
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BGMi0zXKMA&feature=youtu.be
ORIGINAL SCENE FORM PRETTY LITTLE LIARS--- START AT 1:20
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5REQat2Tfs
PROJECT 2 FINAL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sssnbzeV5zg&feature=youtu.be
Friday, May 2, 2014
project one final
Clerks Guidance Counselor re-creation scene
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5AVnsMYjQY
Rough Cut Project 2
I'm not particularly happy with how this came out. I could of done a bunch of different things but i didn't. I just have to fix a few clips and find a good piece of music and it'll be done.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u25Rct6cXbk&feature=youtu.be
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u25Rct6cXbk&feature=youtu.be
Franco Scarcello Final Project 2
Here is my final edit of Project 2 for DVP 1! Enjoy!
~Franco
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bneuXr3P3aU
~Franco
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bneuXr3P3aU
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Rough Cut Project 2
Hello everyone, this is my rough cut of Ambulans Mortuus. Let me know what you think. There are still a few glitches I need to fix, but I am pretty happy with this cut as of now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1acL84RYAQ
Frozen
So I was wondering what all the fuss was about when every kid and teenager was talking about frozen. So of course, I watched it (with the kids I babysit). At first, I thought it was just going to be another silly animated disney film about a princess who needed saving (which in reality, it was). But I ended up really liking it. So what made the film so special?
Well first of all, the music was corny at first. I hate musicals and know a lot of other people who do. But for this one film, I think I can make an exception. It really added to the overall feeling of the movie. It was cut and silly and made the story tie together lose ends. The real fun though was the ice queen/ princess. She was the villain and the victim at the same time, and that was a bit of a twist. You could not help but feel bad for her, yet she was making her sister's life, the protagonist, a living nightmare. She shunned her sister and then made her work to come help her.
It was a good movie for both children and adults. It had silly parts to it, like Olaf the lovable snowman. It also had serious parts, for the more mature audiences like the death of the two sisters parents. It held a dynamic that had everyone enticed almost right from the start (aside from the singing). The storyline was the the key point to the movie.
With great animations and likable characters, the main draw was the plot. Starting out with two girls who were best friends and quickly escalating to two sisters who were complete strangers. From there, a twist comes that brings the two girls together for a night, only to pull them further apart. But the determined younger sister keeps the viewer enticed to watch as she goes on a journey to save her.
I thought this movie was particularly good because it focused more on the relationship of the two sisters rather than the usual love story. It showed younger girls that they can take charge of dangerous situations. Even though she does need the help of a man, in the end it is the two sisters who save each other. It creates a feeling of family empowerment and motivates all to reach out to their brothers and sisters, even if they have become estranged. The visual adds were cool as well, with an ice castle and a whole sea under ice. It was not was I was expecting and I am surprised I liked it enough to write about it.
The only criticism I would make would be that the is ALWAYS a love story. The movie did not need that aspect and could have ended it without the happy ever after of two lovers. Not that I don't like love stories, it's just that in disney movies, they are so predictable.
Well first of all, the music was corny at first. I hate musicals and know a lot of other people who do. But for this one film, I think I can make an exception. It really added to the overall feeling of the movie. It was cut and silly and made the story tie together lose ends. The real fun though was the ice queen/ princess. She was the villain and the victim at the same time, and that was a bit of a twist. You could not help but feel bad for her, yet she was making her sister's life, the protagonist, a living nightmare. She shunned her sister and then made her work to come help her.
It was a good movie for both children and adults. It had silly parts to it, like Olaf the lovable snowman. It also had serious parts, for the more mature audiences like the death of the two sisters parents. It held a dynamic that had everyone enticed almost right from the start (aside from the singing). The storyline was the the key point to the movie.
With great animations and likable characters, the main draw was the plot. Starting out with two girls who were best friends and quickly escalating to two sisters who were complete strangers. From there, a twist comes that brings the two girls together for a night, only to pull them further apart. But the determined younger sister keeps the viewer enticed to watch as she goes on a journey to save her.
I thought this movie was particularly good because it focused more on the relationship of the two sisters rather than the usual love story. It showed younger girls that they can take charge of dangerous situations. Even though she does need the help of a man, in the end it is the two sisters who save each other. It creates a feeling of family empowerment and motivates all to reach out to their brothers and sisters, even if they have become estranged. The visual adds were cool as well, with an ice castle and a whole sea under ice. It was not was I was expecting and I am surprised I liked it enough to write about it.
The only criticism I would make would be that the is ALWAYS a love story. The movie did not need that aspect and could have ended it without the happy ever after of two lovers. Not that I don't like love stories, it's just that in disney movies, they are so predictable.
rough cut of Project 2
Hopefully this is my last rough cut of project 2. What do you guys think?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPaCSN3aga0&feature=youtu.be
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPaCSN3aga0&feature=youtu.be
Game of Thrones
For those of you who know me, of course I am writing about game of thrones. For any of you who watch and are not caught up, do not read this. The season has been fulfilling, as always but episode 2 of the season was the most fulfilling episode of the series so far. There was a specific scene that I thought was particularly well played out.
It was at the purple wedding, king Joffrey was celebrating his marriage with food, wine, and of course, tormenting is poor uncle, Tyrion. They are surrounded by their friends and family as King Joffrey manages to make an utter fool out of the most cunning and clever character on the show. Of course, be cunning and clever, Tyrion does not make a scene in front of the guest but plays along with Joff's little charades. Being beloved by the viewers, everyone is feeling bad for Tyrion. Being hated by the viewers, everyone is loathing Joff.
As the scene progresses, Tyrion is made to look weak and vulnerable as Joff is portrayed as cruel and uncaring. This is when the great visuals take place. Joff starts apparently choking and his face turning purple. He claws at his throat and the cameras zoom about to see the reactions of the onlookers. Some are horrified, plainly while others do not seem to know how to react -- stunned would be the word.
Joff continues on choking and falls into his mothers arms. As he lays there, vomiting all over himself and manages to lift a feeble finger to point at his uncle Tyrion, who is picking up the goblet he was drinking from, looking guilty. Then the camera brings us back to the boy-kings face as he is purple as a plum. He has vomit around his mouth and cannot catch a breath. As he takes is last agonizing attempt to breath, blood trickles from his nose and his eyes are beat red. The shot lingers, to give the views the full affect of the gory death that just occurred.
The lingering shot does not always work when such a strong scene is happening, but for this, the lingering shot only aided in the distraction of one of the most hated characters on television. It was not quite a close-up, but close enough to feel the presence of the dead king through the screen.
Having read the books, the show did more than justice for the gory death of the evil boy-king. It was just was stark-lovers needed to soothe their troubled hearts after the beheading of one and the infamous red wedding.
It was at the purple wedding, king Joffrey was celebrating his marriage with food, wine, and of course, tormenting is poor uncle, Tyrion. They are surrounded by their friends and family as King Joffrey manages to make an utter fool out of the most cunning and clever character on the show. Of course, be cunning and clever, Tyrion does not make a scene in front of the guest but plays along with Joff's little charades. Being beloved by the viewers, everyone is feeling bad for Tyrion. Being hated by the viewers, everyone is loathing Joff.
As the scene progresses, Tyrion is made to look weak and vulnerable as Joff is portrayed as cruel and uncaring. This is when the great visuals take place. Joff starts apparently choking and his face turning purple. He claws at his throat and the cameras zoom about to see the reactions of the onlookers. Some are horrified, plainly while others do not seem to know how to react -- stunned would be the word.
Joff continues on choking and falls into his mothers arms. As he lays there, vomiting all over himself and manages to lift a feeble finger to point at his uncle Tyrion, who is picking up the goblet he was drinking from, looking guilty. Then the camera brings us back to the boy-kings face as he is purple as a plum. He has vomit around his mouth and cannot catch a breath. As he takes is last agonizing attempt to breath, blood trickles from his nose and his eyes are beat red. The shot lingers, to give the views the full affect of the gory death that just occurred.
The lingering shot does not always work when such a strong scene is happening, but for this, the lingering shot only aided in the distraction of one of the most hated characters on television. It was not quite a close-up, but close enough to feel the presence of the dead king through the screen.
Having read the books, the show did more than justice for the gory death of the evil boy-king. It was just was stark-lovers needed to soothe their troubled hearts after the beheading of one and the infamous red wedding.
Project 2 Final Cut - Picking a Major
Here is my Final Cut for Project 2. My short film is called Picking a Major. It is about a girl named Isabelle and she is in the library trying to decide which college major to pursue.
Compared to my rough cut i think i definitely improved, but let me know what you guys think. I didn't play with the color effects but i didn't think i needed to.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_A2GnZEzNU
Compared to my rough cut i think i definitely improved, but let me know what you guys think. I didn't play with the color effects but i didn't think i needed to.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_A2GnZEzNU
Final Project 2 Sisterly Love Alex Cimieri
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-qDYwgkbOc&feature=youtu.be
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Blog 4
A movie I watched recently was "Drinking Buddies" on Netflix. It wasn't my favorite film, but I thought certain things about it was really interesting. I noticed it was mostly hand held, so once the movie was over I started googling things about the film. Firstly, Swansberg directed it. I read that it was unscripted and that instead of writing a screenplay, Swansberg discussed the characters and story with his cast and filled in the blanks during post. (editing process) I thought it was interesting that there wasn't any script. Thinking back to it now, some points were a little awkward and I can't tell if that's what he wanted or it's just how the actors were. I found an article where it says, "With Joe, there is no script," Richardson explains. "In our first conversations, we talked about how we enjoyed filmmaking as 'creation in the moment,' as much as about planning and preparation. For Drinking Buddies, we just had a two-page outline describing where the characters needed to go. It was very loose."
Another thing I found interesting, was the camera, as I mentioned. I found another article where it states,
Another thing I found interesting, was the camera, as I mentioned. I found another article where it states,
"Richardson says he used minimal equipment when it came to lighting, but that doesn't mean he wasn't fussy about illuminating his shots. "I'm very particular about the way I cut light," he says. "I'll spend as much time as tweaking and refining the lights as placing them. [In cinematography] you're always trying to bring a three-dimensional feel to a two-dimensional image." I thought this was interesting because how aren't you fussy when it comes to putting together a film?? Looking back at the film, it does look fine to me, but that just be my opinion. You guys should check it out and let me know your thoughts. I also found an article where someone says, "The freedom accorded the actors in performance sometimes argued for a handheld camera. In many situations, Richardson would light a set for 360 degrees to facilitate this approach." I thought that was really interesting and definitely was smart. Since it was unscripted, you never know what the actor is going to do or how they're going to portray something that the director wanted. So for handheld and set for lights 360 degrees, was a smart thing to do. Overall, the film was really interesting. I thought the ending was going to be different to be honest. I would spoil anything for you guys, so go check it out when you have time.
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
rough cut 2 of project 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-QmjKrnryQ&sns=fb
Still have to fix the voiceover and also the text titles. Let me know any other thoughts/comments!
Thanks.
Still have to fix the voiceover and also the text titles. Let me know any other thoughts/comments!
Thanks.
Project 2 Final
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFk393ALOaM&feature=youtu.be
A game of Kings. Please be free to comment
A game of Kings. Please be free to comment
Project 2 Final Submission- I LOVE YOU
http://youtu.be/TeyxUkYMlKk
This is my final submission for project 2.
I made several changes to it since the rough cut. For color correction I changed the lighting during the texting scene in the beginning. The original cut had a almost orange yellowish color and it made her fingers look dark. I used the three way color corrector to try to match to the other clips as much as possible. So for that scene I lightened the color a bit. Another thing I changed is some of the sounds used. For example I added a knocking sound from freesound.org for the scene where Ryan is knocking on the door. I also lowered the balance of audio and played around with the levels in the scene where she is crying on her bed to take away a bit of the echo noise in the background and to lower her crying down a bit. I also changed the color in the scene where she is eating popcorn and crying watching television. I dimmed the lighting and highered the saturation to make it seem as if it was in a dark room and she was really indeed watching a film.
here is the original:
http://youtu.be/ET4B7cOTdmE
This is my final submission for project 2.
I made several changes to it since the rough cut. For color correction I changed the lighting during the texting scene in the beginning. The original cut had a almost orange yellowish color and it made her fingers look dark. I used the three way color corrector to try to match to the other clips as much as possible. So for that scene I lightened the color a bit. Another thing I changed is some of the sounds used. For example I added a knocking sound from freesound.org for the scene where Ryan is knocking on the door. I also lowered the balance of audio and played around with the levels in the scene where she is crying on her bed to take away a bit of the echo noise in the background and to lower her crying down a bit. I also changed the color in the scene where she is eating popcorn and crying watching television. I dimmed the lighting and highered the saturation to make it seem as if it was in a dark room and she was really indeed watching a film.
here is the original:
http://youtu.be/ET4B7cOTdmE
Project 1 final submission
http://youtu.be/JcxoN93v2OE
This is my project 1 final submission. It was a bit hard to re shoot with a tight schedule and the equipment not being available right away but overall I am happy with the finished product. This is a scene from the movie "Two Hands" starring Heath Ledger.
Here is the original clip:
http://youtu.be/3RkDQN8Kvso
This is my project 1 final submission. It was a bit hard to re shoot with a tight schedule and the equipment not being available right away but overall I am happy with the finished product. This is a scene from the movie "Two Hands" starring Heath Ledger.
Here is the original clip:
http://youtu.be/3RkDQN8Kvso
The Diner - Rough Cut 2
The second rough cut of Project 2, shortened by 2 minutes. Some of the text has been edited as well.
Presented by Ryan O'Donnell, Jason Stecher, Laura Boctor, and Kristina Amerkanian. Special Thanks to Jason Timberger for his participation and support, and The Alexis Diner for their generosity.
All sounds are a product of iMovie, Freesound.org, and Incompetech.com. No copyrights have been infringed.
"You're still Beautiful" Project 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNifQF8AOkA&feature=em-upload_owner
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Thursday, April 24, 2014
rough cut of project 2
I have to add more clips throughout it and at the end but this is what i've put together so far. I also plan on color correcting the scenes of the guy writing the letter to Katie and fixing the audio
Project 2: A game of Kings.
My completed short film with sound track. It is a love story about two guys fighting over one girl, only it is told through a game of chess. Hang on to your seats because it has a surprise ending. I hope you guys enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzlhBaCreqc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzlhBaCreqc
The Diner - Rough Cut
A rough cut of Project 2.
Presented by Ryan O'Donnell, Jason Stecher, Laura Boctor, and Kristina Amerkanian. Special Thanks to Jason Timberger for his participation and support, and The Alexis Diner for their generosity.
All sounds are a product of iMovie, Freesound.org, and Incompetech.com. No copyrights have been infringed.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Nearly finished cut
Hello,
This is a nearly finished cut. Please give me any feedback you might have.
Mr. Wrong
Thanks
~Jackie
This is a nearly finished cut. Please give me any feedback you might have.
Mr. Wrong
Thanks
~Jackie
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Bedlam (Television Show) - Blog 4
Recently i got into this British Television show called Bedlam. It premiered on ITV on October 1, 2011. I only watched the first season starring Theo James, Charlotte Salt, Hugo Speer, Will Young, and Ashley Madekwe. This drama is based off supernatural chills centered around a haunted insane asylum turned apartment building. What i found interesting for this TV series compared to American TV series we are accustomed to is this season only have 6 episodes. Usually TV series have about 22 to 24 episodes per season.
In one clip i found starting from 43 seconds to 1:02, (http://youtu.be/uMNWWl0S7AQ?t=43s) interesting. This is from the first episode when Kate played by Charlotte Salt, was in the bathtub and we knew she was in danger. The soundtrack helped give us the idea of she was in trouble. The camera did a zoom in of the ring she was wearing. The ring was connected with a dark spirit that was drowned to death in the asylum. We see the special effects of the black goo oozing from the walls. It gave the scene more dramatic effect. It let the audience know that something big was happening. When Kate was taken under the water, the spirit took over and tried to drown her. We see a bird eyes view shot of the spirits hands, covering her mouth trying to stop her from breathing. Then we see Kate put her hand on the tub trying to get out but the camera zoomed in on the spirits hand preventing her. Jed (played by Theo James) comes to the rescue but the camera angle is different. I am thinking the camera was under the water trying to get the shot of Jed saving her. It was a good aspect because i thought it was an interesting shot.
For this scene there wasn't too much lighting going on. I didn't think there needed to be since it was a dramatic scene that could lead to Kate's death. The only light i see was the light from the lamp and the light from the outside window. But if it had too much light, i don't think the scary effect could have captured the audience.
In one clip i found starting from 43 seconds to 1:02, (http://youtu.be/uMNWWl0S7AQ?t=43s) interesting. This is from the first episode when Kate played by Charlotte Salt, was in the bathtub and we knew she was in danger. The soundtrack helped give us the idea of she was in trouble. The camera did a zoom in of the ring she was wearing. The ring was connected with a dark spirit that was drowned to death in the asylum. We see the special effects of the black goo oozing from the walls. It gave the scene more dramatic effect. It let the audience know that something big was happening. When Kate was taken under the water, the spirit took over and tried to drown her. We see a bird eyes view shot of the spirits hands, covering her mouth trying to stop her from breathing. Then we see Kate put her hand on the tub trying to get out but the camera zoomed in on the spirits hand preventing her. Jed (played by Theo James) comes to the rescue but the camera angle is different. I am thinking the camera was under the water trying to get the shot of Jed saving her. It was a good aspect because i thought it was an interesting shot.
For this scene there wasn't too much lighting going on. I didn't think there needed to be since it was a dramatic scene that could lead to Kate's death. The only light i see was the light from the lamp and the light from the outside window. But if it had too much light, i don't think the scary effect could have captured the audience.
The Importance of Good Sound
The title says it all. Recently I watched a movie on Netflix called "Paintball". Almost the whole film was shot in what felt like found footage but was more of a "we don't own a tripod" shaky cam. Although this was an issue the fact stands that the audio for this film was so low that at normal viewing volume it could not be heard and when we cranked up the volume it was still extremely hard to hear. The film was low budget and really crappy but over all plot was sound and the footage (although shaky at times) was good. I can even say the lighting was fair. The sound issue was what killed this movie for me. It told the story very well visual, I can only imagine how it would have been if both were pair perfectly.
The importance of sound quality is bigger then just being able to hear the film. Sound creates a completely different world. I have no problem listening to a T.V. show but if there is a lack of sound I must fix the issue or I will just not watch it. Sound also helps with moving a scene along. I could go on but it just seems like I would start restating myself. The point stands, low sound is better then no sound, bad sound is better then low sound, and good sound is better then bad sound.
The importance of sound quality is bigger then just being able to hear the film. Sound creates a completely different world. I have no problem listening to a T.V. show but if there is a lack of sound I must fix the issue or I will just not watch it. Sound also helps with moving a scene along. I could go on but it just seems like I would start restating myself. The point stands, low sound is better then no sound, bad sound is better then low sound, and good sound is better then bad sound.
Monday, April 21, 2014
Sunday, April 20, 2014
FSBlog 5: The Writing in Children's Movies
When you think of children's movies, what comes to mind?
- Bright Colors?
- Fun Songs?
- Playful Characters?
- Important Life Lessons?
Well, if you thought of any of these, you'd obviously be right...
HOWEVER, there is one thing you probably didn't think about: Smart Writing. And not smart writing in terms of intelligence; but smart writing in terms of movie studio goals.
Last week Mary and I went to go see Rio 2 with her family and while watching it I couldn't help but be pulled into the classic storyline about fish out of water (or, more appropriately, birds out of...water). This made me think, "How can movie writers hold the attention of both small children and the adults that take them to see these movies?" The answer, like I've said, is smart writing. I was pleasantly surprised with some of the more "adult jokes" that were carefully designed to fly over children's heads but land successfully with the older crowd.
You see, the goals of writing children's movies are to entertain kids and pull them into the world of the film without the parents/guardians of these kids wanting to shoot themselves out of boredom. Movie studios need to convince parents that taking their little ones to the movies will be beneficial for both parties. If they don't do enough to please the adults, they'll be less willing to take their kids to the movies at all which will hurt profits as a result.
Again, this is just something interesting I thought of after watching Rio 2 (it's a great film, by the way). I mean, it might be easier nowadays for movie studios to fill seats because younger parents feel like it's hip to act young (man-children, for instance). But regardless, it's still something to think about and appreciate, especially if you have kids or younger siblings...
Saturday, April 19, 2014
The concept and camera angles of the Truman show
The Truman show is a movie that follows the real life a man from pre-birth. He lives in a fictional town made by the head producer/director. Every person in the town is a payed actor and have some form of day to day activities that repeat themselves over and over throughout the day.
The Idea of a full television show with the star having no clue is interesting. there are multiple things to be concerned about. The star is unpredictable, the actors could go rogue, there could be malfunctions with equipment, the list goes on. The way they go about producing the show seems very real. in the production booth. They live cut to different angles based on which angle is more appealing to the audience. they also have access to older footage and during moments they feel it necessary they can do live flash backs. With all of this they have to have lots and lots of cameras 5,000 according to the movie. That many cameras brings a lot of different and interesting camera angles. for example in his car there isn't just one camera behind the radio but also cameras behind the air blowers and in his dash board. The thought that went into this movie is great. over all the movie gives and interesting look at how a live shot looks and feels.
The Idea of a full television show with the star having no clue is interesting. there are multiple things to be concerned about. The star is unpredictable, the actors could go rogue, there could be malfunctions with equipment, the list goes on. The way they go about producing the show seems very real. in the production booth. They live cut to different angles based on which angle is more appealing to the audience. they also have access to older footage and during moments they feel it necessary they can do live flash backs. With all of this they have to have lots and lots of cameras 5,000 according to the movie. That many cameras brings a lot of different and interesting camera angles. for example in his car there isn't just one camera behind the radio but also cameras behind the air blowers and in his dash board. The thought that went into this movie is great. over all the movie gives and interesting look at how a live shot looks and feels.
Friday, April 18, 2014
Fast Cuts and Setting the Mood in Captain America: The Winter Soldier
I recently went to see the new Captain America movie and noticed something immediately. There are always obnoxiously fast cuts during fight scenes. I realize the purpose of this is to mask punches not actually being landed and kicks missing their mark but it made me as an audience member extremely annoyed. We barely got to see anything the two characters were doing because the flashes of action lasted less than a second so really we were only able to get a general sense of what was going on when I would have appreciated seeing more.
The second thing I noticed is the newfound popularity of the Blair Witch Project-esque camera techniques. A two shot in a tense, anxiety riddled scene would be hand held and shaky, with the close ups being done in-take and bouncing from one face to another. I'm usually not a fan of this since it tends to make me ill but their choice of doing this only when the mood allowed for it was actually fairly genius.
The second thing I noticed is the newfound popularity of the Blair Witch Project-esque camera techniques. A two shot in a tense, anxiety riddled scene would be hand held and shaky, with the close ups being done in-take and bouncing from one face to another. I'm usually not a fan of this since it tends to make me ill but their choice of doing this only when the mood allowed for it was actually fairly genius.
FSBlog 4: Found Footage Thoughts
FOUND FOOTAGE BLOG
To summarize the article:
- Found Footage often gets a bad rap
- Peter Watkins' 1971 mock-doc Punishment Park is the origin of FF
- The Blair Witch Project is the main legacy -> (Cost 35k, made 250 Million)
((Chronicle is in a smiliar situation))
- Found Footage is extremely versatile
- It's easy to film because of the fact that everything happens "live"
- It CAN be done wrong
My thoughts: I quite like the found footage genre. It's produced fun movies like Chronicle and Cloverfield and quite frankly when it works, it works. However, there is something that needs to be pointed out. The idea of found footage, in the movie itself, needs to make sense. A movie shouldn't use this style of filming just because it wants a lowered budget and a way to mask crappy special effects or camera tricks. It also shouldn't be SO "found footagey" (admittedly, like some parts of Cloverfield) that you cannot focus on anything that's happening. Instead, it should be plausible that for whatever reason, a character in the movie would have the means, purpose, and camera type, to be recording at all. Those are just my thoughts: What do you guys think?
- It CAN be done wrong
My thoughts: I quite like the found footage genre. It's produced fun movies like Chronicle and Cloverfield and quite frankly when it works, it works. However, there is something that needs to be pointed out. The idea of found footage, in the movie itself, needs to make sense. A movie shouldn't use this style of filming just because it wants a lowered budget and a way to mask crappy special effects or camera tricks. It also shouldn't be SO "found footagey" (admittedly, like some parts of Cloverfield) that you cannot focus on anything that's happening. Instead, it should be plausible that for whatever reason, a character in the movie would have the means, purpose, and camera type, to be recording at all. Those are just my thoughts: What do you guys think?
Thursday, April 17, 2014
The Perks of Being A Wallflower Blog 4
This scene above in particular was my absolute favorite
scene of the entire film. It was cut in a way that was easy to understand for those
who read the book prior and for those who did not. In this scene the main character Charlie, has
a mental breakdown where it is revealed he was molested by his Aunt Helen. The
scene starts out with Charlie saying goodbye to his friend Sam who was leaving
for college. Then it cuts to the previous night where Sam and Charlie were
kissing and Charlie had this pained expression on his face. Then the film cuts
back to Charlie standing in the road watching Sam and his other good friend
Patrick drive away. He begins to walk home and then right away there is an
image to Sam touching Charlie’s thigh and then a tighter cut that was
comparison to someone else touching him and that was his aunt. As Charlie walks home there are shots of him
thinking about his childhood with his aunt and specific things she said to him.
He was her favorite and she spoiled him because of what she was doing to him.
He was very young at the time and didn’t have any idea what was going on but
she always talked about secrets and begged him not to wake his sister. When he
enters his home there are quick cuts to different pictures on the walls of him
and his siblings when they were younger. Then there are images of the past
year; the abuse he witnessed happen to his sister, the physical fight he got
into, the parties he went to, and the strange looks given by everyone in his
life. At about 1:53 the cuts stop being so fast paced as Charlie calls his
sister who calls the police to make sure Charlie was okay. On the phone with
her he says, “What if I wanted her to die, Candace?” The audience then knew
that Charlie remembered what he had been blocking out fully this entire time. Overall
the breakdown scene was cut and edited together really well. The instrumental
piece playing in the background which, was composed by Michael Brook, added
power to the impacting scene.
Blog Entry #4 - We Were Soldiers - “But in the end, they fought not for their country or their flag - they fought for each other.”
“But
in the end, they fought not for their country or their flag - they fought for
each other.”
We Were Soldiers - Blog #4
We Were Soldiers - Blog #4
(For the items I refer to in this entry, start at 0:41)
Genre: Action/Drama/History
Directed
By: Randall Wallace
Written
By: Harold G. Moore (book) Joseph L. Galloway (book) & Randall Wallace
(screenplay)
Starring:
Mel
Gibson as Lt. Col. Hal Moore
Madeleine
Stowe as Julie Moore
Greg
Kinnear as Maj. Bruce 'Snake' Crandall
Sam
Elliott as Sgt. Maj. Basil Plumley
Chris
Klein as 2nd Lt. Jack Geoghegan
Keri
Russell as Barbara Geoghegan
Barry
Pepper as Joe Galloway
Duong
Don as Lt. Col. Nguyen Huu An
Faith - is something we all innately
possess. Whether we choose to hold belief in a higher power, the universe, or
even just ourselves, faith is one of many guides and influences upon the junctures
of our lives. Upon viewing Randall Wallace’s We Were Soldiers after quite some time, it easily re-solidified its
stance as a personal favorite among the war film genre. By appealing to the
humanity within us all, and showing the viewers that those who wear a uniform
are much more than simply that - rather than just merely perpetuating and
recreating the violence of the battles of old, it serves as a fantastic display
of what kind of gripping storytelling can be achieved.
The film tells of Lieutenant Colonel Hal Moore, along with the men of 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, and their endeavors spent overseas on the soil of Vietnam - specifically, in the Ia Drang Valley, which came to be known as “The Valley of Death”, and as the first major battle of the Vietnamese War. The action is gruesome, but the true-to-life horror is matched by the heroism and morality of the men in combat. But, what makes this notion so intriguing in how most war films are blatantly in favor of the Americans, and hoist them onto the pedestal as heroes either right from the get go and hold us high, or inevitably place us upon that grand position in the end. Wallace decided to do things a little differently, and appeal to both sides of this conflict - and the barefaced fact that they are also men of faith.
The film tells of Lieutenant Colonel Hal Moore, along with the men of 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, and their endeavors spent overseas on the soil of Vietnam - specifically, in the Ia Drang Valley, which came to be known as “The Valley of Death”, and as the first major battle of the Vietnamese War. The action is gruesome, but the true-to-life horror is matched by the heroism and morality of the men in combat. But, what makes this notion so intriguing in how most war films are blatantly in favor of the Americans, and hoist them onto the pedestal as heroes either right from the get go and hold us high, or inevitably place us upon that grand position in the end. Wallace decided to do things a little differently, and appeal to both sides of this conflict - and the barefaced fact that they are also men of faith.
Many scenes within this work I found truly memorable- and the approach by which it was done was a carefully orchestrated symphony in itself. The film takes almost 45 minutes to establish the foundation - that these soldiers are family men, with wives and children. One of the best scenes to clarify this to the viewer is the party held prior to their departure, where an establishing shot from far away makes it seem like any other. But, as the camera comes closer, and we see the emotion on the faces of the soldiers and their wives, we see the dread, the fear, and the sorrow. The very simple fact that yes - the possibility exists that they may not come back from the job they’re obligated to undertake. Arguably the most compelling non-combat scene is where Gibson, as Lt. Col. Moore, is sitting on the bed beside his wife the very night they’re to leave in full gear. The lighting helps to establish the looming trepidation, and the tension is there. Then, in a resolute act, he steps out of his home into the night, dons the kevlar helmet, and marches alone to meet the rest of his men under the glow of the light in the dark. His men show up, and they stand unwavering in the night, beacons of the light - heroes. The symbolism here, paired with the aesthetics and musical score are incredibly powerful.
Additionally, the use of juxtaposition was masterful towards the end of the film in one instance in particular. Hal and his men are victorious in driving back the Vietnamese with a surprise attack before their own at dawn. Major “SnakeShit” Crandall flies in right before Vietnamese soldiers are able to regain their composure and use heavy weaponry to shift the tide of the American assault - and he lays waste to handful upon handful of enemy combatants. Upon the completion of this assault, Lt. Col. Nguyen surrenders and orders his men to withdraw. Afterwards, a battle-worn Joseph Galloway, who was crazy enough to place himself in the middle of the conflict as a non-combatant journalist (though the son of a family of soldiers) is seen next to the innocent gaggle of journalists flown in by helicopter who immediately bombard him, and Lt. Col. Moore with questions. After both of them dismiss the journalists, we see how this incident, in Moore’s eyes, solidifies Galloway as the man to tell the story to the world - because he earned his right to be there. To fight, and perhaps to die, beside him and the men of the 7th Cavalry.
In summary, the mechanics, paired with the profound symbolism within We Were Soldiers help to provide a storytelling experience beyond the norm. As time passes, these principles we learn and practice are becoming more and more evident to us in the movies we watch and re-watch, and on our own projects. These techniques go hand in hand with the product we produce, and every day I’m reminded of the fact that there is a direct correlation between the effort - and the results achieved. A great work doesn’t just “look good” - it also stirs the heart.
Project Two: In need of Feedback
Hi,
I am looking for feedback on the first cut of the second project. Specifically if the plot and resolution/ending works.
Much of the audio is not finished past the first two scenes.
The password is 'Right' I am also looking for ideas for changing the title.
Choosing Rights
~Jackie
I am looking for feedback on the first cut of the second project. Specifically if the plot and resolution/ending works.
Much of the audio is not finished past the first two scenes.
The password is 'Right' I am also looking for ideas for changing the title.
Choosing Rights
~Jackie
Fades
Anyone Looking for a Cross-Fade?
When I began editing fades seemed like a lovely transition
for one place to another. However, more
than one individual I have worked with has expressed distaste for fades.
After reading “In the Blink of an Eye” last year, I really
pay attention to what makes our eyes feel the need to blink, and hopefully some
of the consequences of that. If you can
think of a time when you blinked repeatedly (allergies, cold wind, confusion,
trying to keep up with fast movement), you might associate it with a slight
increase in emotion or adrenalin.
In editing, several cuts (or specific cuts) can influence
blinks, mainly by increasing them.
Faster cuts, faster blinks, increase in heart rate, it can help produce fear, but what if that is
not the desired effect. After paying
close attention to effects of cuts and blinking I am now wondering what is the
opposition, what, as an editor, can I do to produce calmness, or comfort?
As observed in psychology, having adrenalin running high at
a continual pace leads to anxiety, which is not a healthy or a happy
feeling. Anxiety is not the desired
effect for even a horror movie; an adrenal rush is desired affect. In order
to provide an audience with adrenalin rushes they must first be emotionally
connected with the characters or situations, then secondly must feel
scared. In order for this to happen the
audience must go through an emotional roller coaster; it must include peaks and
valleys. Without calm moments, the tension will become
flat; the intensity must rise and fall.
Movies must increase then hold back, then increase in
intensity again to truly involve an audience; this is why entering scenes and
resolving conflict works well with fade sequences.
I feel like there are several points in a movie when an
editor would want the audience to feel calm: at some point in the introduction,
after the climax, and when resolving the film.
When beginning to build up to something scary, the audience must return
to homeostasis then start to feel tension again.
~Jackie
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