Media evaluation
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Monday 2 May 2011
Thursday 7 April 2011
Evaluation
In what ways does your media product use, develop or challenge form and conventions of real media products?
Film Noir is argued to be a movement rather than a genre, developing conventions where gender is manipulated to be empowering females, where women would have been subservient in the 1940’s. We have kept to the old Film Noir conventions but developed them by modernizing the conventions like ‘Sin City’ as it uses animations and colour to attract a modern audience. We used standard conventions but with a modern twist, trying to develop Film Noir so that it would suit today’s audience. We challenged the conventions of a thriller by subverting the music; as generally non-diegetic music is used to build atmosphere and tension; Jazz music was used to contrast to the action, additionally this connotes the female’s power, as these actions would be repeated on a daily bases, camera angles help connote her power using P.O.V.’s. A voice-over was replaced with dialogue and non-diegetic sounds, to suit a modern audience. We kept it black and white for the opening challenging standard thriller conventions, as people prefer watching coloured films, because of this we can modernise the film by using colour for the remaining time. Also adding in more modern changes with modern police and reporters helping to widen our target audience. The sub genre is made apparent by the contrasting gender with most thrillers having males as the dominant role, also using expressive lighting to create a sinister atmosphere, also connoting the female’s significance, and black and white. Sin City was our main influence, however we broadened our understanding with, LA Confidential and BatMan. Although they are not black and white, they connote the darkness and power much like our piece. Ideas of corruption as shown throw both films; we wanted to portray this in our opening, as it is a common convention of Film Noir.
To sum up I think that I have got a good mix of developed and challenging conventions. The reason for this was to make the Film Noir be attractive for a younger audience, with use of low angles and close ups connoting the female’s significance. Also how I have used my research of other thrillers to help influence my work, this is the section where I needed to experiment with other thrillers, as it would allow me to challenge my pieces conventions, helping it suit a wider audience.
2. How does your media product represent particular social groups?
Film Noir is set in the 40’s when women were subservient to males. Film Noir represents the female gender to be dominant, unlike many thriller films which often represent males as the more authoritative gender. The use of low angles and close ups help connote her powerful status, PO.V.’s allow for the female to have much more screen time than the other males, this helps connote her significance in the opening, we found that this was essential to connote her powerful status. Whereas close ups and high angles connote Tom’s weakness as he left helpless, in comparison to Heather’s complete power, this was mainly in the last scene on Tom being tortured. Where people where gambling, close up’s were a great way to show facial expression as in many shots we wanted Tom’s fearfulness and nervousness to be connoted through series of close ups, The use of camera clearly represent’s the difference in dominance, as Tom’s character is presented as weak once faced with the female character, connoting her dominance.
I used camera angles and distances to help connote the female’s dominant status, as females are stereotypically subservient to males in thrillers. My piece due to its genre, challenges stereotypical assumptions, and uses camera and lighting to empathise the female’s power and males weakness.
3. What kind of media institution might distribute your media product and why?
Independents could invest in the film; this is because Film Noir has a niche market, ultimately making it pointless to release it in mainstream cinema. Therefore DVD and TV is where the film should be distributed. Our piece uses German Expressionism, as we used expressive lighting to create large shadows that connote the female’s dominance in comparison to the males. Additionally the film could be released as an Art House film, delivering to a niche audience. Film Noir was prominat in the 40’s therefore it would needed updating to compete in the 21st century market, with a modern twist on the conventions, in context of today’s society. Due to the film being in black and white, set in the 40’s, and my target audience research, I think the audience would be a middle aged adult. The Internet would be a good way to gain a new target market, as few people are familiar with the genre, therefore the Internet may attract a wider audience to our modernised genre.
Film Noir being a niche genre, distribution is limited therefore linking into other genres is a good way of reaching a wider audience. Art House and German expressionism are two separate genres with similar conventions that I can help use to reach that wider audience.
4. Who would be the audience for your media product?
Due to the violent nature that is shown through the Femme Fatale, the film would not appeal to anyone below the age of 15. Therefore we used our research on BBFC, to rate the film 15, as the content is more suggestive than scary. On a wider scale Film Noir generally has an older audience, on the other hand it fits in the Crime Thriller genre, which will help widen the audience suggesting that those who are younger may enjoy the overall film. Modernising our opening so that it is more similar to thrillers nowadays will attract a wider audience, as it will not be too specific to Film Noir. Our piece is not gender specific as the crime genre is mainly male orientated, however, the film empowers the female gender which contrasts with similar thrillers. Gender is very important in Film Noir and is one of the only genres where woman are the more powerful.
The audience could be any where from 15 to 80, but with a modern twist I hope to target a younger audience, which will make the Film Noir’s genres audience wider, this is related to Film Noir fitting into Crime Thrillers. Also because of the dominant female gender, the film is not gender specific as it has conventions that will attract both male and female. We did not do enough research on other similar Film Noir’s and whom they attract, this is something I could have done to work out a more detailed target audience.
5.How did you attract/address your audience?
We used questionnaires to begin with – and throughout the process to find out the audience views within the thriller genre, where the majority of people enjoyed Crime Thrillers. For target audience feedback we used Facebook and YouTube, the feedback was used to improve our piece making changes to editing and shot fluency. As its rated a 15, we used P.O.V.’s to include the audience within the section, furthermore creating a sense that the audience are witnessing something horrific. This justifies why the BBFC rate is 15, as young children would find the piece too scary. Film Noir uses P.O.V’s connote the females power but also empathise her violence. If I had the chance I would add to my research, getting a wider audience to fill in the questionnaire but also make the questions more specific. Also use the audience feedback more often as it will help improve the piece during the making processes instead of an evaluating stage at the end.
Using Facebook and YouTube as a good way for me to get feedback, however it was something I needed to do throughout getting constant feedback and improvements. Also I needed to use my research more specifically as I did not find out exactly the Film Noir audience or thriller audience, this then hindered my production. But how we addressed the audience I feel we had done well using P.O.V.’s and close ups. We are addressing our audience instantly by connoting corruption using bold camera angles and expressive lighting.
6. What have you learnt about technologies, from the process of constructing the product?
I found that the camera was very easy to learn to use, but the editing software was much more difficult and took several attempts to get right. A simple problem that we faced was the camera becoming blurred, this was not apparent until we loaded the footage onto premier causing us to reshoot and waste time. As well as this, the tripod easily became uneven making our shots appear wonky. I think the camera equipment is good; to make sure we didn’t make the same mistakes twice we did general checks on all equipment before filming for our 2-minute opening. During our editing we had several problems with the Mac’s as we were unable to get them to import the file, this was a major problem as it stopped the groups progression, we resolved this by uploading the clips separately then importing the files onto the desktop. My overall all use on Adobe Premier has improved dramatically as I now am able to use the majority of the tools for example import/ export files, crop clips and sounds and also enter new title, also it has taught me to look at certain things like shot lengths and transitions of shots which are vital in making the piece smooth and flow.
To evaluate modern technology has allowed me to produce a professional film sequence, mainly being able to use a digital video camera to upload the clips to a Mac easily and us to create an advanced and quickly, this made the filming process very quick. We had our set backs with technologies but was able to overcome them. My skills on the editing software have improved dramatically as I am now able to understand why particular shots are used to create mise – en – scene. But also to asses the strengths and weakness of the group, and where we could have done things different to allow progress to carry on.
7. Looking back to your preliminary task, what do you think you’ve learnt in the progression from it to the full product?
Since the Continuity task I have learnt the importance of research and planning, although we did a lot of planning, we found it was not thorough enough as we straightaway abandoned our shot list. Our lack of planning was made evident when we finished our shot list by only getting 1-minute 20 worth of footage out of our 2-minute deadline. However as the task progressed we were able to plan a lot better sticking to our schedule and making each filming session more beneficial. I believe we have successfully completed the task set out to us, as we have met the criteria. Furthermore I think we have got some good shots that are slightly different to the normal thrillers. The final piece was much harder than Prelim Task as we needed an extra 50 seconds of filming. In all aspects of the filming process we needed it to be much more thorough, planning our shot list was going to be a priority, this was something that we did not take into consideration for our Prelim but needed to do, and especially think of shot variations because of our Genre. Film Noir has aided our genre, this is because we where able to challenge standard Thriller conventions. One of the being how gender was represented, we where able to use the camera to connote the Femme Fatales significance where in many thriller, camera would not be used as strongly to connote power.
Mainly important the research and planning stages are as they will determine the rest of the project. But also how I have learnt new skills and become more confidant when using the camera as I am now able to understand shot meanings and why angles and distances are used. These are things that I did not know before the prelim task and now use for my final piece.
Film Noir is argued to be a movement rather than a genre, developing conventions where gender is manipulated to be empowering females, where women would have been subservient in the 1940’s. We have kept to the old Film Noir conventions but developed them by modernizing the conventions like ‘Sin City’ as it uses animations and colour to attract a modern audience. We used standard conventions but with a modern twist, trying to develop Film Noir so that it would suit today’s audience. We challenged the conventions of a thriller by subverting the music; as generally non-diegetic music is used to build atmosphere and tension; Jazz music was used to contrast to the action, additionally this connotes the female’s power, as these actions would be repeated on a daily bases, camera angles help connote her power using P.O.V.’s. A voice-over was replaced with dialogue and non-diegetic sounds, to suit a modern audience. We kept it black and white for the opening challenging standard thriller conventions, as people prefer watching coloured films, because of this we can modernise the film by using colour for the remaining time. Also adding in more modern changes with modern police and reporters helping to widen our target audience. The sub genre is made apparent by the contrasting gender with most thrillers having males as the dominant role, also using expressive lighting to create a sinister atmosphere, also connoting the female’s significance, and black and white. Sin City was our main influence, however we broadened our understanding with, LA Confidential and BatMan. Although they are not black and white, they connote the darkness and power much like our piece. Ideas of corruption as shown throw both films; we wanted to portray this in our opening, as it is a common convention of Film Noir.
To sum up I think that I have got a good mix of developed and challenging conventions. The reason for this was to make the Film Noir be attractive for a younger audience, with use of low angles and close ups connoting the female’s significance. Also how I have used my research of other thrillers to help influence my work, this is the section where I needed to experiment with other thrillers, as it would allow me to challenge my pieces conventions, helping it suit a wider audience.
2. How does your media product represent particular social groups?
Film Noir is set in the 40’s when women were subservient to males. Film Noir represents the female gender to be dominant, unlike many thriller films which often represent males as the more authoritative gender. The use of low angles and close ups help connote her powerful status, PO.V.’s allow for the female to have much more screen time than the other males, this helps connote her significance in the opening, we found that this was essential to connote her powerful status. Whereas close ups and high angles connote Tom’s weakness as he left helpless, in comparison to Heather’s complete power, this was mainly in the last scene on Tom being tortured. Where people where gambling, close up’s were a great way to show facial expression as in many shots we wanted Tom’s fearfulness and nervousness to be connoted through series of close ups, The use of camera clearly represent’s the difference in dominance, as Tom’s character is presented as weak once faced with the female character, connoting her dominance.
I used camera angles and distances to help connote the female’s dominant status, as females are stereotypically subservient to males in thrillers. My piece due to its genre, challenges stereotypical assumptions, and uses camera and lighting to empathise the female’s power and males weakness.
3. What kind of media institution might distribute your media product and why?
Independents could invest in the film; this is because Film Noir has a niche market, ultimately making it pointless to release it in mainstream cinema. Therefore DVD and TV is where the film should be distributed. Our piece uses German Expressionism, as we used expressive lighting to create large shadows that connote the female’s dominance in comparison to the males. Additionally the film could be released as an Art House film, delivering to a niche audience. Film Noir was prominat in the 40’s therefore it would needed updating to compete in the 21st century market, with a modern twist on the conventions, in context of today’s society. Due to the film being in black and white, set in the 40’s, and my target audience research, I think the audience would be a middle aged adult. The Internet would be a good way to gain a new target market, as few people are familiar with the genre, therefore the Internet may attract a wider audience to our modernised genre.
Film Noir being a niche genre, distribution is limited therefore linking into other genres is a good way of reaching a wider audience. Art House and German expressionism are two separate genres with similar conventions that I can help use to reach that wider audience.
4. Who would be the audience for your media product?
Due to the violent nature that is shown through the Femme Fatale, the film would not appeal to anyone below the age of 15. Therefore we used our research on BBFC, to rate the film 15, as the content is more suggestive than scary. On a wider scale Film Noir generally has an older audience, on the other hand it fits in the Crime Thriller genre, which will help widen the audience suggesting that those who are younger may enjoy the overall film. Modernising our opening so that it is more similar to thrillers nowadays will attract a wider audience, as it will not be too specific to Film Noir. Our piece is not gender specific as the crime genre is mainly male orientated, however, the film empowers the female gender which contrasts with similar thrillers. Gender is very important in Film Noir and is one of the only genres where woman are the more powerful.
The audience could be any where from 15 to 80, but with a modern twist I hope to target a younger audience, which will make the Film Noir’s genres audience wider, this is related to Film Noir fitting into Crime Thrillers. Also because of the dominant female gender, the film is not gender specific as it has conventions that will attract both male and female. We did not do enough research on other similar Film Noir’s and whom they attract, this is something I could have done to work out a more detailed target audience.
5.How did you attract/address your audience?
We used questionnaires to begin with – and throughout the process to find out the audience views within the thriller genre, where the majority of people enjoyed Crime Thrillers. For target audience feedback we used Facebook and YouTube, the feedback was used to improve our piece making changes to editing and shot fluency. As its rated a 15, we used P.O.V.’s to include the audience within the section, furthermore creating a sense that the audience are witnessing something horrific. This justifies why the BBFC rate is 15, as young children would find the piece too scary. Film Noir uses P.O.V’s connote the females power but also empathise her violence. If I had the chance I would add to my research, getting a wider audience to fill in the questionnaire but also make the questions more specific. Also use the audience feedback more often as it will help improve the piece during the making processes instead of an evaluating stage at the end.
Using Facebook and YouTube as a good way for me to get feedback, however it was something I needed to do throughout getting constant feedback and improvements. Also I needed to use my research more specifically as I did not find out exactly the Film Noir audience or thriller audience, this then hindered my production. But how we addressed the audience I feel we had done well using P.O.V.’s and close ups. We are addressing our audience instantly by connoting corruption using bold camera angles and expressive lighting.
6. What have you learnt about technologies, from the process of constructing the product?
I found that the camera was very easy to learn to use, but the editing software was much more difficult and took several attempts to get right. A simple problem that we faced was the camera becoming blurred, this was not apparent until we loaded the footage onto premier causing us to reshoot and waste time. As well as this, the tripod easily became uneven making our shots appear wonky. I think the camera equipment is good; to make sure we didn’t make the same mistakes twice we did general checks on all equipment before filming for our 2-minute opening. During our editing we had several problems with the Mac’s as we were unable to get them to import the file, this was a major problem as it stopped the groups progression, we resolved this by uploading the clips separately then importing the files onto the desktop. My overall all use on Adobe Premier has improved dramatically as I now am able to use the majority of the tools for example import/ export files, crop clips and sounds and also enter new title, also it has taught me to look at certain things like shot lengths and transitions of shots which are vital in making the piece smooth and flow.
To evaluate modern technology has allowed me to produce a professional film sequence, mainly being able to use a digital video camera to upload the clips to a Mac easily and us to create an advanced and quickly, this made the filming process very quick. We had our set backs with technologies but was able to overcome them. My skills on the editing software have improved dramatically as I am now able to understand why particular shots are used to create mise – en – scene. But also to asses the strengths and weakness of the group, and where we could have done things different to allow progress to carry on.
7. Looking back to your preliminary task, what do you think you’ve learnt in the progression from it to the full product?
Since the Continuity task I have learnt the importance of research and planning, although we did a lot of planning, we found it was not thorough enough as we straightaway abandoned our shot list. Our lack of planning was made evident when we finished our shot list by only getting 1-minute 20 worth of footage out of our 2-minute deadline. However as the task progressed we were able to plan a lot better sticking to our schedule and making each filming session more beneficial. I believe we have successfully completed the task set out to us, as we have met the criteria. Furthermore I think we have got some good shots that are slightly different to the normal thrillers. The final piece was much harder than Prelim Task as we needed an extra 50 seconds of filming. In all aspects of the filming process we needed it to be much more thorough, planning our shot list was going to be a priority, this was something that we did not take into consideration for our Prelim but needed to do, and especially think of shot variations because of our Genre. Film Noir has aided our genre, this is because we where able to challenge standard Thriller conventions. One of the being how gender was represented, we where able to use the camera to connote the Femme Fatales significance where in many thriller, camera would not be used as strongly to connote power.
Mainly important the research and planning stages are as they will determine the rest of the project. But also how I have learnt new skills and become more confidant when using the camera as I am now able to understand shot meanings and why angles and distances are used. These are things that I did not know before the prelim task and now use for my final piece.
Target Audience Evaluation
"I think the content of it is great how you lot have added effects such as black and white instead of colour gives it that classy look, but the transitions of when tom is getting beaten up could do with a minor tweak when heather hits him round with a bat make it more believable to make it more believable but other than that, I like how with every blinking eye that video blacks out"
The beginning shots are varied which show the thought that went into shooting and storyboarding, it also makes it look more professional. In some places around 0.36 the audio from the actors are slightly quiet and drowned out by the music but the idea of it is there and the shots are good. The transitions could be smoother but the sharp effect makes it more interesting. The varied shots after 1.08 are good as they add an effect to the film and makes it more appealing to watch. I also think after 1.28, how the shots go black as he is blinking is a very effective way of showing it, makes it different and more powerful and engaging to watch. The only thing i'd say that needs improving is the sound control at 0.36, but apart from that the film is well made and shot.
The dialogue at start too quite
Target Evaluation –
After getting back to our audience we found that the majority of people enjoyed watching the opening, however there where parts that can be improved, also people thought that we could redo the dialogue due to it being too quite. People began to think that the black and white effects was done to make the opening seem “classy” however this was not our goal, we wanted to produce a Film Noir that went back to the originals, therefore we used black and white. There for perhaps we needed to re think our target audience due to the current target audience not understanding the concept of the film, however this could become more apparent for the rest of the film.
Everyone said that the first 30 seconds or so, was great and looked very professional, but began to slip towards the end. Therefore this was mainly down to the editing at the end, as it seemed inconsistent with the rest of the opening. Because of this we need to go back and look at our editing making sure that the shots where more fluent, as people felt it is not as good as it could be. One shot in specific that we need to edit is the shot where tom gets hit, the reason for this is the audience felt that it was not believe able and was obvious that he wasn’t hit, furthermore if he was hit, he would be injured significantly and unable to be pleading afterwards. This was very useful information as it allowed us to rethink certain shots and get an idea on what the audience want to see, therefore I think that we need to go back and change some of editing pace, so that the scene becomes more believe able for the audience. Additionally people felt that the dialogue was not to standard with gambling dialogue not being loud enough due to the music, we needed to change this as the dialogue denotes toms weakness being vital to our Film Noir genre.
After looking back out our target audience research, I found that it was not accurate this caused us to consequently produce a film for the incorrect target audience. We had not done enough research on what I target audience wanted from our opening, as not many people knew about the Film Noir genre. Because our target audience research was not as thorough as we thought miss leading us through our planning and actual making of the opening to our final stage where we found that we could have done more research. To sum up, our research on target audience was not good enough, it meant that our final product did not have the correct audience, this meant that we needed to improve our target audience research so that we knew exactly what people wanted from a thriller, also a gap that could be filled in the thriller market, hot a film that works but no audience enjoys watching it.
The beginning shots are varied which show the thought that went into shooting and storyboarding, it also makes it look more professional. In some places around 0.36 the audio from the actors are slightly quiet and drowned out by the music but the idea of it is there and the shots are good. The transitions could be smoother but the sharp effect makes it more interesting. The varied shots after 1.08 are good as they add an effect to the film and makes it more appealing to watch. I also think after 1.28, how the shots go black as he is blinking is a very effective way of showing it, makes it different and more powerful and engaging to watch. The only thing i'd say that needs improving is the sound control at 0.36, but apart from that the film is well made and shot.
The dialogue at start too quite
Target Evaluation –
After getting back to our audience we found that the majority of people enjoyed watching the opening, however there where parts that can be improved, also people thought that we could redo the dialogue due to it being too quite. People began to think that the black and white effects was done to make the opening seem “classy” however this was not our goal, we wanted to produce a Film Noir that went back to the originals, therefore we used black and white. There for perhaps we needed to re think our target audience due to the current target audience not understanding the concept of the film, however this could become more apparent for the rest of the film.
Everyone said that the first 30 seconds or so, was great and looked very professional, but began to slip towards the end. Therefore this was mainly down to the editing at the end, as it seemed inconsistent with the rest of the opening. Because of this we need to go back and look at our editing making sure that the shots where more fluent, as people felt it is not as good as it could be. One shot in specific that we need to edit is the shot where tom gets hit, the reason for this is the audience felt that it was not believe able and was obvious that he wasn’t hit, furthermore if he was hit, he would be injured significantly and unable to be pleading afterwards. This was very useful information as it allowed us to rethink certain shots and get an idea on what the audience want to see, therefore I think that we need to go back and change some of editing pace, so that the scene becomes more believe able for the audience. Additionally people felt that the dialogue was not to standard with gambling dialogue not being loud enough due to the music, we needed to change this as the dialogue denotes toms weakness being vital to our Film Noir genre.
After looking back out our target audience research, I found that it was not accurate this caused us to consequently produce a film for the incorrect target audience. We had not done enough research on what I target audience wanted from our opening, as not many people knew about the Film Noir genre. Because our target audience research was not as thorough as we thought miss leading us through our planning and actual making of the opening to our final stage where we found that we could have done more research. To sum up, our research on target audience was not good enough, it meant that our final product did not have the correct audience, this meant that we needed to improve our target audience research so that we knew exactly what people wanted from a thriller, also a gap that could be filled in the thriller market, hot a film that works but no audience enjoys watching it.
Typography Changes
We have had to make many changes one of them was our Typography, as we found that it was too cartoony and did not go with our chosen genre. After doing some group research we found that Serif was the main font used in Film Noir titles. Therefore we chose to use this for our titles keeping to the codes and conventions of Film Noir. The reason that Film Noir use Serif is mainly because it is a very simplistic text, also help to create a mysterious atmosphere to the opening of the scene which is generally created with in Film Noir.
Teachers Feedback 2
After speaking to the teacher who gave us some feedback on our progress and how we can improve our opening. First of all we needed to decide how we where going to fill the last 40 seconds, we proposed some of our ideas, and then together we narrowed it down to one with the teachers input keeping in mind the convention of Film Noir. This then lead on to using the extra 40 seconds to make the female more of a violent and aggressive character, furthermore how we were going to film the actions. He advised us to use as many bold and daring shots as possible connoting the female’s dominance. The feedback given on our editing was, we needed to rearrange some of the shots, perhaps add some in to help it flow also we needed to keep in mind the length of each shot as there was no rhythm. Non Diegetic music was not thought of much, however we where told that a contrasting sound track would connote the violence seen on screen. I think that going and getting a teachers opinion on our work was a vital stage as it has allowed us to get the most from the shots that we had, also is a great learning curve to what problems we have faced and how we can improve.
Rough Cut Evaluation
Our Rough Cut was not long enough as we still had roughly 40 seconds to go. Therefore we where going to have to come up with some more footage that will fill in the gap and allow us to further connote the female’s dominance. The title sequence that we had put in for the opening was well positioned however we had picked a inappropriate font to be used with our specific sub genre, therefore we choice Serif Sans as it is a much more simplistic font, that will go with the conventions of a Film Noir better, this will also help the shots flow. We found that making our shots flow was harder than we expected, this was mainly down to our film not being properly edited but because of this there was no rhythm making our piece seem jumpy, this is mainly where tom was taken from the chair and put on the floor and finally put in a sac, these 3 shots needed to be edited smoother, as currently they did not make sense confusing the audience as they watched it. We tried to correct this briefly by making the shot length nearly the same where possible. This is something that we are definitely going to have to amend for our final cut. We also found that using transitions could be a possibility for our final piece, as this would hopefully make some shots flow easier. The diegetic sounds that where on the piece needed to be re done, as we are unable to hear the conversation-taking place out side. We also needed to change around the dialogue at the pool table as the accents used did not suit the aim of creating a Film Noir opening. Non – diegetic music was not added and this is something that we need to think about for our final piece, as it is essential to build tension in a scene. Lighting was also a problem in our first attempt, as all of our indoor shots where way to dark; we need to over come this by reshooting or changing the contrast on premier. Lastly I felt that there was not enough bold shots like Close Ups and P.O.V.’s used to capture the female’s dominance and help connote her significance over the males.
To sum up, my rough cut taught me that I needed to change some things with my piece. Also for things like editing where shot lengths and fluency is a very important part that I hadn’t thought of, this makes the piece seem very jumpy and unprofessional. Also about how important my research was, as we needed to go back and look at conventions of Film Noir that we can integrate back into the next 40 seconds of the opening, this would also help connote the Femi Fatal dominance being a very important convention of Film Noir.
To sum up, my rough cut taught me that I needed to change some things with my piece. In particular editing where shot lengths and fluency is a very important part that I hadn’t thought of, which makes the piece seem very jumpy and unprofessional. ( comment on a specific part of the opening so it is in context) is thereanythong else about the rough cut that you learned
I realised how important my research was, as we needed to go back and look at conventions of Film Noir so that we can integrate back into the next 40 seconds of the opening different elements, showing how the genre is not only familiar, but also different; this would also help the audience identify with the opening and connote the Femme Fatale dominance being a very important aspect of it
To sum up, my rough cut taught me that I needed to change some things with my piece. Also for things like editing where shot lengths and fluency is a very important part that I hadn’t thought of, this makes the piece seem very jumpy and unprofessional. Also about how important my research was, as we needed to go back and look at conventions of Film Noir that we can integrate back into the next 40 seconds of the opening, this would also help connote the Femi Fatal dominance being a very important convention of Film Noir.
To sum up, my rough cut taught me that I needed to change some things with my piece. In particular editing where shot lengths and fluency is a very important part that I hadn’t thought of, which makes the piece seem very jumpy and unprofessional. ( comment on a specific part of the opening so it is in context) is thereanythong else about the rough cut that you learned
I realised how important my research was, as we needed to go back and look at conventions of Film Noir so that we can integrate back into the next 40 seconds of the opening different elements, showing how the genre is not only familiar, but also different; this would also help the audience identify with the opening and connote the Femme Fatale dominance being a very important aspect of it
17/03
We had only a few shots that we needed to get done, these where final shots that where going to allow the audience to feel the full brutality of the female. We tried to capture this by using bold shots like a P.O.V. of the male being hit for example. The filming session was only short and just allowed us to get some final shots that will hopefully make the difference in the end.
14/03
Once we had got all of our footage we did some rough editing where we found that at most we were going to have 1 minute 20, so more filming was needed to make up the last 40 seconds. However this gave us a chance to use some of our new knowledge and try and create a more believable Film Noir using shot variations and dialogue. Gambling was the best idea we came up with, allowing us to get our 40 seconds, also connoting the females dominance via one of the males cheating. However we spoke to the teacher where he guided us to use the 40 seconds to show a more violent and aggressive side of the female. Then use bold shots to capture and connote her dominance, with more P.O.V.’s of both the cheater and the Femi Fatal.
Editing
As a group we faced many problems with Mac’s however we where able to overcome this and upload all off our footage onto premiere to start editing. It was at this point where we could look at each shot and see whether it was okay, we found that a few shots needed re shooting. Once it was partly edited we where also able to see whether or not it flowed with the each shot being roughly the same length, shots needed to be added to the first 30 seconds of the opening, as it did not flow. When editing we came across the problem of there being no clear storyline in the opening, for example multiple shots of the female both inside and out, but then no hint or shot that the female has gone inside. Consequently we needed look at the rough cut, and see where we can add new shots to make the variation better, but also where we can add shots or redo shots to make the opening flow and have meaning. Whilst experimenting with our shots, we decided to add in dissolves before the black screen, and during a POV of the female, we felt that using this transition will help connote the female’s dominance. The teacher was satisfied with the start of the opening, however was not sure on what was happening, he gave us some instructions on how we could improve it, bearing in mind shot lengths and angles.
28/02
We thought we would try and experiment using some bold shots; we did this by having a P.O.V. of Sam as he was forced to look at heather. This was from a low angle slowly looking at the female standing up beside him; this was a good shot in theory as it connoted the female’s dominance. We also did a high angle shot of Sam being dragged in, as the first attempt wasn’t good enough, whilst doing this we decided to get a shot of Sam being dropped from the females P.O.V. However after doing all of these shots we found that nothing fitted properly and we needed to rethink our shots and how we where going to capture the sequence, perhaps a different choice of shots would be needed.
Teachers Feedback
The teacher gave us some feedback early on, focusing on our shooting schedule and how we could use our time effectively. Firstly he advised us to rethink our shooting schedule, making it a lot more specific, also adding in dates. This made it clear to us, as to what shots we where going to film each time furthermore allowing us to progress a lot quicker. The teacher focused on how we have dramatically veered away from our animatic, this is a risky move as we have nothing to refer to but on the other hand could be an improvement to what we already had. After seeing our teacher we where able to work out a detailed shooting plan allowing is to get on the filming and not losing valuable time. But trying to keep to out animatic where possible, as we could easy lose sight of our end result, creating a 2 minute opening to a film with no relevance to a Film Noir, or thriller.
23/02
We spent some time thinking and discussing more shots that will help us to maximise the female’s screen time, making her look dominant and significant. We decided that we could use the balcony as it allowed us to use several different low angles and close ups, however we thought it was a bit too cliché but after quickly looking through our Film Noir notes we decided most films used the same conventions. Whilst doing more research we found that Film Noir specifically use bold shots, we decided to incorporate some in our film and tried to think of possible opportunities to shot some. When we did the filming we focused on a two shot of the bodyguard and the female, however there was a clear height difference we tried to make the female seem the more dominate figure by centralizing her in the shot also making her have noticeable more screen time. After this session we decided to show our teacher what we had done so far, getting feedback on what good and not also where places where we can improve.
20/02
With all the male actors able to come, we decided to get as much done with them as possible focusing on a major part where Sam gets dragged in. We chose Sam because he is smaller than Tom and myself this would help connote our dominance in the sequence. After our first attempt of getting the shot we tried a different location that was easier to film, as it allowed us to use a high angle instead of middle shot, which does not create much meaning. Whilst changing location we found that we where able to create a lot larger shadows which are a key convention in Film Noir. We wanted to capture Sam being dragged in from as many different angles and shots as possible however this created a problem as they would seem more dominant than the female, therefore we had to rethink our shot selection for the next filming session.
16/02
We faced a problem with our first actress becoming ill. This meant that the footage we had previously shot was useless and needed to be re done, we decided to fill her in with someone form the group. Although this created a opportunity to use a variety of shots that we hadn’t thought of in previous filming sessions. Story line was tweaked allowing us to get more shots connoting the Femi Fatal dominance. Due to the males not being able to attend we decided not to waste the session but to film as many of the females shots as we could, focusing on shot angles and distance that are vital in Film Noir. We where going to use a cigarette to help maximise the females screening time, but we found that it gave the wrong impression so we changed it for a glass of wine being a more elegant option.
Changes
New Character Profile:
Heather Casey
Age: 16
Unfortunately, as our previous actress was ill, we felt that it was best to change the actress as we needed to be able to film fairly quickly, and also have time to do reshoots as well. It made sense to change the actress to someone who is part of the group, as it would be much easier to plan and organise any extra reshoots that were necessary.
Female Protagonist
Elegant clothing - black dress, heels
Main character in opening, dominance connoted through low angles, close ups, and POV shots.
Heather Casey
Age: 16
Unfortunately, as our previous actress was ill, we felt that it was best to change the actress as we needed to be able to film fairly quickly, and also have time to do reshoots as well. It made sense to change the actress to someone who is part of the group, as it would be much easier to plan and organise any extra reshoots that were necessary.
Female Protagonist
Elegant clothing - black dress, heels
Main character in opening, dominance connoted through low angles, close ups, and POV shots.
02/02
We where able to make our second filming session a lot more productive than our first session, as everyone knew what shots we needed to get allowing us to get on with filming not having to discus each shot. For the session we mainly thought about conventions on Film Noir, this is where we realised that we need to vary our shot’s using low angles to connote the female’s dominance however this was made hard due to the female not moving in the opening sequence. A change was needed, we needed to use the shot variation to connote the Females power, and therefore we needed to tweak our story line making it easier to film. Due to this we decided to we where going to use long shots and close although they will not be of the same significance. Additionally we needed to come up with some dialogue or research common non-digetic music found in Film Noir. The male actors playing pool was a possibility of non-digetic sounds but they weren’t available, so we looked at the free music websites that where provided for alternative music or ideas.
31/01
This was our first filming session, we tried to get most of the shots that where in our animatic, this was going to be the most time effective way of filming allowing us to then see where we could improve or add extra shots. However we found that their was very little variety of shots mainly using mid shots / two shots. A larger variety of shots was needed to creating meaning within the piece, we decided upon using more close up’s, high angle, low angle shots to try and create meaning also show weakness and dominance with certain characters.
Additionally this was made harder due to the animatic being at school, as we had nothing to refer to, therefore next time I think we should talk about what we are going to do in the session before hand allowing us to maximise our filming time.
Additionally this was made harder due to the animatic being at school, as we had nothing to refer to, therefore next time I think we should talk about what we are going to do in the session before hand allowing us to maximise our filming time.
Animatic Evaluation
Our animatic was simply a series of images that we had created from our storyboard; the reason for this is we did not want a clear story line but something that the audience will be able to relate to, however we found that this was easier to do with a clear storyline. We did this by trying to use a variety of shots that will hopefully connote the female’s dominance and the males being the weak gender. Furthermore we added non dietetic music to try and create a scenes of tension being built in the opening, however I feel that this was not successful and a different choice of music will be needed.
Sin City Research
We found that further research was needed on the conventions of a Film Noir. Sin City is the most recent and well known Film Noir to us, we decided to take a close look at how the camera is used to connote the female’s dominance in the opening. We found that the use of low angles was mainly used to make her look more dominant than him, to the use of dialogue is a powerful tool that we need to take into consideration as our opening has very little dialogue so far. Additionally we where going to use a balcony which is similar to Sin City, we had to be careful that we where not being to Cliché, but most thrillers especially Film Noir use similar conventions to sell for a mass audience.
Shot List
Pan from pool table to female antagonist
LA middle shot of female in chair
POV from her looking at people playing pool
LS of pool table Shot of ball towards camera
CU of eye
Graphic match – ball to eye
Sound bridge over eye shot – footsteps/door slam
MS – 2 bodyguards, victim with head down. Female voiceover “You’re late”
POV of victim looking at floor
Tilt to look at female stood up
LS of Tom being dropped Shot reverse shot of conversation – his speech cut off by her
Eye line shot of her looking at him
LS of wine
LA middle shot of female in chair
POV from her looking at people playing pool
LS of pool table Shot of ball towards camera
CU of eye
Graphic match – ball to eye
Sound bridge over eye shot – footsteps/door slam
MS – 2 bodyguards, victim with head down. Female voiceover “You’re late”
POV of victim looking at floor
Tilt to look at female stood up
LS of Tom being dropped Shot reverse shot of conversation – his speech cut off by her
Eye line shot of her looking at him
LS of wine
Character Profiles
Falcon Garman
Age: 16
We chose Falcon for this part as she has experience in acting due to her A-level choices, she has a lot of free time and is able to provide her own costume.
Female Protagonist
Elegant clothing - dress, fur coat, fake nails etc.
Main character in opening, dominance shown through various shots of her in a swingy chair, smoking.
Tom Reilly
Age: 16
We chose Tom as our victim as he fits the criteria for the part, and is available for filming when needed.
Victim
Smart clothing - suit
Brief shots of this character - walking down the corridor and entering the room
Sam Patrick
Age: 16
Extra/bodyguard
We chose Sam as an actor in the opening as he's already working in our group, meaning contact and availability will be easier to work out.
Shots of him playing snooker and bringing Tom into the room.
Brogan Wiggins
Age: 16
Extra/bodyguard
Brogan, as he is a member of the group contact will be easy. Shots of him playing snooker and dropping a pool cue.
Age: 16
We chose Falcon for this part as she has experience in acting due to her A-level choices, she has a lot of free time and is able to provide her own costume.
Female Protagonist
Elegant clothing - dress, fur coat, fake nails etc.
Main character in opening, dominance shown through various shots of her in a swingy chair, smoking.
Tom Reilly
Age: 16
We chose Tom as our victim as he fits the criteria for the part, and is available for filming when needed.
Victim
Smart clothing - suit
Brief shots of this character - walking down the corridor and entering the room
Sam Patrick
Age: 16
Extra/bodyguard
We chose Sam as an actor in the opening as he's already working in our group, meaning contact and availability will be easier to work out.
Shots of him playing snooker and bringing Tom into the room.
Brogan Wiggins
Age: 16
Extra/bodyguard
Brogan, as he is a member of the group contact will be easy. Shots of him playing snooker and dropping a pool cue.
Brainstorming
Idea one
- Slow panning shot of an alleyway -voiceover of male saying to dominant female 'I waited at the alleyway like she said to'
- Flashback to venetian blinds with male and female in the room
- Male being accused of committing a crime, extremely nervous
- Females accomplish interrogating him
- Shot to film title
Idea two
- Funeral setting
- Flashback to how the death happened (murder)
- Dominant female seen hiding body
- Voiceover of female explaining why she did it
- Dialogue fades into the film title
Idea three
- Swingy chair - CU of chains squeeking in title sequence
- Setting in rich house denoting wealth
- Dominant female character swinging in swingy chair, reminiscing about the murder she commited
- High key lighting emphasising her dominance and significance
- Flashback to why she killed the man
- Black screen
Idea four
- Swingy chair - CU of chains creating a sense of mystery and tension
- Cigarette in females hand, bought up to her face
- Smoke blown directly into the camera - smokey fade
- People playing pool in the background
- Shot of female - footsteps as someone comes close to her
- 'You're late' - shot of cigarette being put out
- Black screen - gunshots
- Shot of chair swingy - empty room
- Slow panning shot of an alleyway -voiceover of male saying to dominant female 'I waited at the alleyway like she said to'
- Flashback to venetian blinds with male and female in the room
- Male being accused of committing a crime, extremely nervous
- Females accomplish interrogating him
- Shot to film title
Idea two
- Funeral setting
- Flashback to how the death happened (murder)
- Dominant female seen hiding body
- Voiceover of female explaining why she did it
- Dialogue fades into the film title
Idea three
- Swingy chair - CU of chains squeeking in title sequence
- Setting in rich house denoting wealth
- Dominant female character swinging in swingy chair, reminiscing about the murder she commited
- High key lighting emphasising her dominance and significance
- Flashback to why she killed the man
- Black screen
Idea four
- Swingy chair - CU of chains creating a sense of mystery and tension
- Cigarette in females hand, bought up to her face
- Smoke blown directly into the camera - smokey fade
- People playing pool in the background
- Shot of female - footsteps as someone comes close to her
- 'You're late' - shot of cigarette being put out
- Black screen - gunshots
- Shot of chair swingy - empty room
Continuity Task Evaluation
The Continuity Task was a good insight into how much experience people have had with a camera, we found that we where all new and not very experienced. I trying to use the experienced techniques too early was our down full because our end result looked very fake making a very simple task look amateurish.
We began by trying to get a shot of Sam entering the room, we wanted to use the tripod getting a P.O.V. of me looking up at him as he entered however we found that this was a lot trickier than it looked, as we where unable to make the tilt look natural. We then moved the position of where I was sitting down, to try and change the unnatural angle, I believe that we had done it to a certain extent, as it looks a lot better than before, but perhaps could have experimented with a hand held shot.
Positioning was a very difficult factor that we faced, as we where unable to successfully position the tripod to get clear over shoulder shots of me sitting in the chair. We then had to re position our self once again, causing a continuity error that was clear when we watched it back. This was mainly due to our location of the piece as it was a very confined office making it hard to position the tripod and people inside.
When we had to edit the footage where we found that some of the shots did not look natural still, like the tilt of Sam entering the room, we either could re film it from a different angle or shot however found due to our deadline it was best to keep it. We also wanted to create a sense of tension in the task, we thought we could do this by adding some Non – Diegetic music to build the tension gradually but this made very little difference.
We began by trying to get a shot of Sam entering the room, we wanted to use the tripod getting a P.O.V. of me looking up at him as he entered however we found that this was a lot trickier than it looked, as we where unable to make the tilt look natural. We then moved the position of where I was sitting down, to try and change the unnatural angle, I believe that we had done it to a certain extent, as it looks a lot better than before, but perhaps could have experimented with a hand held shot.
Positioning was a very difficult factor that we faced, as we where unable to successfully position the tripod to get clear over shoulder shots of me sitting in the chair. We then had to re position our self once again, causing a continuity error that was clear when we watched it back. This was mainly due to our location of the piece as it was a very confined office making it hard to position the tripod and people inside.
When we had to edit the footage where we found that some of the shots did not look natural still, like the tilt of Sam entering the room, we either could re film it from a different angle or shot however found due to our deadline it was best to keep it. We also wanted to create a sense of tension in the task, we thought we could do this by adding some Non – Diegetic music to build the tension gradually but this made very little difference.
Class Mates Continuity Task Evaluations
Luke –
We gave Luke’s group a level 2 because there was some good shots used. However the dialogue was not great with it being very rushed and people laughing, further more the piece was not finished as it suddenly just ended as they stood up. Overall was an okay attempt with some good shots however needed dialogue needed to be changed and then the piece needed finishing.
Stephanie –
We gave the group a level 3 as they have clearly shown more than a basic level of ability. The majority of shots where held steadily, and people in the frame, hitting the basic criteria of a level 3. However their only downfall was a limited amount of dialogue, and then not using non-diegetic music to composite for it. Overall the best continuity task, but there is defiantly room for improvement with the music / dialogue and perhaps shot distances.
Ellies –
We gave the group a level 3, this was because of good shots throughout and extremely good music that linked with the dialogue. The non-diegetic and diegetic music worked extremely well creating a sense of atmosphere to the piece. However, there was very visible continuity error where Callum had his arms in the air and then next shot they where on the table, this made the task seem amateurish and editing needed to improved.
We gave Luke’s group a level 2 because there was some good shots used. However the dialogue was not great with it being very rushed and people laughing, further more the piece was not finished as it suddenly just ended as they stood up. Overall was an okay attempt with some good shots however needed dialogue needed to be changed and then the piece needed finishing.
Stephanie –
We gave the group a level 3 as they have clearly shown more than a basic level of ability. The majority of shots where held steadily, and people in the frame, hitting the basic criteria of a level 3. However their only downfall was a limited amount of dialogue, and then not using non-diegetic music to composite for it. Overall the best continuity task, but there is defiantly room for improvement with the music / dialogue and perhaps shot distances.
Ellies –
We gave the group a level 3, this was because of good shots throughout and extremely good music that linked with the dialogue. The non-diegetic and diegetic music worked extremely well creating a sense of atmosphere to the piece. However, there was very visible continuity error where Callum had his arms in the air and then next shot they where on the table, this made the task seem amateurish and editing needed to improved.
Planning Shot List
Person A walks to the door with a cup of tea. Pan shot used to show the character walking from one room to the office.
Door opened. Over shoulder shot of the handle being pulled down, with cup of tea visible in the shot.
POV of person B, showing person A walking though the door. A tilt has been used to show person A walking through the door, then bringing the cup of tea to person B and placing it on his desk. With a tilt/pan of person A sitting down in the chair.
- Person A walks in with the tea, “ here’s your tea boss”
- Person B replies “ cheers, take a seat”
Over shoulder shot, we use shot reverse shots, for our dialogue, this allows you to see the person speaking. The camera switches from each person shoulder shot, when the opposite person is speaking.
Over shoulder shot, of person A
- Person B, “ you do make a good cup of tea but”
Over shoulder reverse shot of person B,
- Person A,“ but”
Over shoulder shot of person A,
- Person B, “ I’m sorry but I’m going to have to let you go”
Over shoulder shot, showing reaction,
- Person A, “ what, why?”
Over shoulder shot of person A,
- Person B, “ you see my business is made my money and you don’t make me any”
Over shoulder reaction shot of person B,
- Person A, “ but I work”
Over should shot of person A,
- Person B, “ I’m sorry, can you please pack up your things and leave by the end of the day”
Over shoulder shot of person B,
- Person A, “ whatever, I never likes this job anyways”
Over shoulder shot of person B carries on as person A gets up from the chair.
Shot from the side, showing person B standing up, walking over to meet person A.
Person B reacts to Person A’s comment,
- “ wait, ill let you out, not touching my door.”
Person A replies whilst walking out the door,
- “ whatever”
The dialogue is captured by a two shot.
Then a pan of person A walking out of the door.
Door opened. Over shoulder shot of the handle being pulled down, with cup of tea visible in the shot.
POV of person B, showing person A walking though the door. A tilt has been used to show person A walking through the door, then bringing the cup of tea to person B and placing it on his desk. With a tilt/pan of person A sitting down in the chair.
- Person A walks in with the tea, “ here’s your tea boss”
- Person B replies “ cheers, take a seat”
Over shoulder shot, we use shot reverse shots, for our dialogue, this allows you to see the person speaking. The camera switches from each person shoulder shot, when the opposite person is speaking.
Over shoulder shot, of person A
- Person B, “ you do make a good cup of tea but”
Over shoulder reverse shot of person B,
- Person A,“ but”
Over shoulder shot of person A,
- Person B, “ I’m sorry but I’m going to have to let you go”
Over shoulder shot, showing reaction,
- Person A, “ what, why?”
Over shoulder shot of person A,
- Person B, “ you see my business is made my money and you don’t make me any”
Over shoulder reaction shot of person B,
- Person A, “ but I work”
Over should shot of person A,
- Person B, “ I’m sorry, can you please pack up your things and leave by the end of the day”
Over shoulder shot of person B,
- Person A, “ whatever, I never likes this job anyways”
Over shoulder shot of person B carries on as person A gets up from the chair.
Shot from the side, showing person B standing up, walking over to meet person A.
Person B reacts to Person A’s comment,
- “ wait, ill let you out, not touching my door.”
Person A replies whilst walking out the door,
- “ whatever”
The dialogue is captured by a two shot.
Then a pan of person A walking out of the door.
Criteria
Not braking the 180 degree rule.
Having a Two shot of Person A and Person B.
Shot reverse shot, showing the dialogue.
All shots need to be steady.
Shot distances varied, for appropriate reason.
A pan must be used, held steady with the person centered in the shot.
Good variety of shots.
Using varied transitions.
Sound where appropriate.
Selective mise – en - scene.
Titles used appropriately.
Having a Two shot of Person A and Person B.
Shot reverse shot, showing the dialogue.
All shots need to be steady.
Shot distances varied, for appropriate reason.
A pan must be used, held steady with the person centered in the shot.
Good variety of shots.
Using varied transitions.
Sound where appropriate.
Selective mise – en - scene.
Titles used appropriately.
Research Evaluation
By carrying out this research I have learnt about thrillers as a whole, and what makes it a thriller, how they have changed over years taking in new and different types of thrillers. I have concentrated on what makes a thriller using their specific codes and conventions. Thrillers use a variety of camera shots, with close ups long shots mid shots and even high shots. The director will use a wide range of shots to establish different interest points to the audience a glimpse of how the film will continue, and if they will enjoy the film. Different paces if editing and different types, for example jump cuts to fade this allows the shots to flow together under changing circumstances with in the opening.
Varied use of sound, we find there is a lot more non – diegeitic sounds used in an opening, this sets the tone of the film and helps the audience relate to the character. Generally we find the protagonist in the film.
Shown dialogue is limited as the aim for the audience to establish a connection and understanding of the characters and surroundings.
Mise - en – scene can be very heavily used, as it is what makes up the scene ranging from clothing to how the character acts. We generally find this is used to help the audience get to know the character and how they act, also with in there surroundings.
I also looked at how different types of thriller have been used. How there is a variation of both sub genres and hybrids, also how they are used in modern day thrillers. I also chose some that we would be will to use in our opening for example Film Noir, I looked at the conventions that make it, and how it is different to a conventional thriller.
I also looked at the target audience and whom a thriller aims the films at, I used a questionnaire to narrow my search down and allow me to know who mainly watches a thriller. Also whether the thriller targets men or women, this is important as it will allow us to make a film for a more broad audience or on the other hand a specific audience.
What it has taught me is how to make a good all round opening, using the conventions of a thriller. We must make sure though that we are not producing a cliché, as this would not be original and making it boring for the audience. The research has given me an idea of what type of audience would watch a thriller; this will give me an idea of how to target my audience. Looking at past students work has really allowed me to know what makes a good opening, and what things make a bad opening. Also what is standard we have to meet, also what the evaluators will be looking for when examining our work. Overall the research has taught me what makes up a good all round thriller opening, what is used to make a thriller opening, also why a thriller audience like a thriller also what it is about a thriller that they enjoy watching.
The research will change my planning, as we have been able to narrow our possibilities down to one, Film Noir. We have chosen to do Film Noir as it is something a bit different but still holds all the conventions of a thriller. We are also going to have to change the audience to make sure we stick to a 15 rated film, this is because we have come to realize that a 15 rated film would be the best all round film, especially for what we would be able to produce at school. The 5 thriller evaluations have allowed me to know what is found generally in thriller openings this will affect my planning as we will need to take into consideration what they generally use and recreate one without making a cliché.
Varied use of sound, we find there is a lot more non – diegeitic sounds used in an opening, this sets the tone of the film and helps the audience relate to the character. Generally we find the protagonist in the film.
Shown dialogue is limited as the aim for the audience to establish a connection and understanding of the characters and surroundings.
Mise - en – scene can be very heavily used, as it is what makes up the scene ranging from clothing to how the character acts. We generally find this is used to help the audience get to know the character and how they act, also with in there surroundings.
I also looked at how different types of thriller have been used. How there is a variation of both sub genres and hybrids, also how they are used in modern day thrillers. I also chose some that we would be will to use in our opening for example Film Noir, I looked at the conventions that make it, and how it is different to a conventional thriller.
I also looked at the target audience and whom a thriller aims the films at, I used a questionnaire to narrow my search down and allow me to know who mainly watches a thriller. Also whether the thriller targets men or women, this is important as it will allow us to make a film for a more broad audience or on the other hand a specific audience.
What it has taught me is how to make a good all round opening, using the conventions of a thriller. We must make sure though that we are not producing a cliché, as this would not be original and making it boring for the audience. The research has given me an idea of what type of audience would watch a thriller; this will give me an idea of how to target my audience. Looking at past students work has really allowed me to know what makes a good opening, and what things make a bad opening. Also what is standard we have to meet, also what the evaluators will be looking for when examining our work. Overall the research has taught me what makes up a good all round thriller opening, what is used to make a thriller opening, also why a thriller audience like a thriller also what it is about a thriller that they enjoy watching.
The research will change my planning, as we have been able to narrow our possibilities down to one, Film Noir. We have chosen to do Film Noir as it is something a bit different but still holds all the conventions of a thriller. We are also going to have to change the audience to make sure we stick to a 15 rated film, this is because we have come to realize that a 15 rated film would be the best all round film, especially for what we would be able to produce at school. The 5 thriller evaluations have allowed me to know what is found generally in thriller openings this will affect my planning as we will need to take into consideration what they generally use and recreate one without making a cliché.
Past Students
Evaluation of the past students work has allowed me to understand what is expected of me, and the final product. Watching the opening scenes several times has made the mistakes noticeable. We were analysing, genre, editing, sound, mise – en – scene etc.. Using these characteristics to work out whether the group had used them correctly to make a worthwhile opening, doing this made the smallest of mistakes that would not be normally noticed seem apparent and could ruin the opening.
Root Cause – This was one of the better thriller openings that was evaluated. I gave the opening a level 4, this is one of the top grades. I chose this because it uses all the main characteristics with some success. They were able to follow the theme of Film Noir making the audience interested and build the tension up in the opening. Camera was used to establish the characters and the setting of the opening. This is was done well getting a good variety of shots allowing us to see the characters from up close to also seeing there clothing that fits Film Noir. There was a good start of the opening for 40seconds allowing the audience to get established with the settings. This is a good period of time as it gives the audience enough time to get to know the setting, characters etc. Good transaction between the shots allowing the opening to flow. There was good diegetic and non diegetic sounds creating the atmosphere of the opening. Mise – en - scene is crucial the group has used it very well, making the audience think they are watching something from the 50’s, where there was only black and white camera’s. Overall the group did very well in producing a good all round opening, also having only one or two mistakes like a continuity error.
Room To Breathe – Then we evaluated an opening that scored a level 3 this means that the group used the characteristics okay but not to there full extent or making some mistakes. Camera was used with not much variety, having the same shots, angles and frames. This made the opening seem very dull making It hard for the audience to become interested, also the panning was jerky showing poor camera skills. The editing has a duel narrative which was good, but the rest where all of the same scene lengths also making the opening seem dull and perhaps boring. Sound was used well with a sound bridge linking the scenes and shots together, this is good as it makes the opening flow however this was not used in the camera or editing. Mise – en – scene is used very well to set the scene. The opening overall is an okay one this is because it tries very hard to do more professional filming they were unable to pull it of producing mistakes which were made very apparent when evaluating.
Unrequited Love – On first view this opening looked very good, but once we began to evaluate it we realised that there were many mistakes made resulting in the opening getting around a level 2/3. This is because they did not keep to the genre of a thriller, making the opening have no purpose. There was a cliché used in the opening. Camera shots where repetitive, making the opening seem dull. Editing the transaction between shots were also repetitive so where the shot lengths this also added to the boring feel of the opening. The editing was very quick also with the typography where the audience was unable to read what was on screen. There was no real variety of sound or mise – en – scene used in the opening. Altogether this made the opening very dull and boring, also with a large amounts of mistakes producing a poor quality production.
From evaluating the past students work I realise that I am going to have to make sure I use all the characteristics well, but crucially make sure that camera, editing, sound and mise – en – scene is perfect throughout the opening. Furthermore I need to keep to the genre of a thriller but not use a cliché. The evaluation process has been very important to me because I now know what the standard is for my group, also what I should look out for when producing my final product.
Root Cause – This was one of the better thriller openings that was evaluated. I gave the opening a level 4, this is one of the top grades. I chose this because it uses all the main characteristics with some success. They were able to follow the theme of Film Noir making the audience interested and build the tension up in the opening. Camera was used to establish the characters and the setting of the opening. This is was done well getting a good variety of shots allowing us to see the characters from up close to also seeing there clothing that fits Film Noir. There was a good start of the opening for 40seconds allowing the audience to get established with the settings. This is a good period of time as it gives the audience enough time to get to know the setting, characters etc. Good transaction between the shots allowing the opening to flow. There was good diegetic and non diegetic sounds creating the atmosphere of the opening. Mise – en - scene is crucial the group has used it very well, making the audience think they are watching something from the 50’s, where there was only black and white camera’s. Overall the group did very well in producing a good all round opening, also having only one or two mistakes like a continuity error.
Room To Breathe – Then we evaluated an opening that scored a level 3 this means that the group used the characteristics okay but not to there full extent or making some mistakes. Camera was used with not much variety, having the same shots, angles and frames. This made the opening seem very dull making It hard for the audience to become interested, also the panning was jerky showing poor camera skills. The editing has a duel narrative which was good, but the rest where all of the same scene lengths also making the opening seem dull and perhaps boring. Sound was used well with a sound bridge linking the scenes and shots together, this is good as it makes the opening flow however this was not used in the camera or editing. Mise – en – scene is used very well to set the scene. The opening overall is an okay one this is because it tries very hard to do more professional filming they were unable to pull it of producing mistakes which were made very apparent when evaluating.
Unrequited Love – On first view this opening looked very good, but once we began to evaluate it we realised that there were many mistakes made resulting in the opening getting around a level 2/3. This is because they did not keep to the genre of a thriller, making the opening have no purpose. There was a cliché used in the opening. Camera shots where repetitive, making the opening seem dull. Editing the transaction between shots were also repetitive so where the shot lengths this also added to the boring feel of the opening. The editing was very quick also with the typography where the audience was unable to read what was on screen. There was no real variety of sound or mise – en – scene used in the opening. Altogether this made the opening very dull and boring, also with a large amounts of mistakes producing a poor quality production.
From evaluating the past students work I realise that I am going to have to make sure I use all the characteristics well, but crucially make sure that camera, editing, sound and mise – en – scene is perfect throughout the opening. Furthermore I need to keep to the genre of a thriller but not use a cliché. The evaluation process has been very important to me because I now know what the standard is for my group, also what I should look out for when producing my final product.
The Third Man
There is a long intro giving important information about the film, like director, cast and editing etc. In the background we see a guitar like shape with strings going through screen, this is parallel with the music being played to the titles. Furthermore this type of music was popular in the 40’s and is used through out the film. The titles are white making them stand out to the dull black and while background.
Camera – distance, angle, movement – The actually film starts of with an ElS, establishing the film is set in the city. Then the name of the city where the film is set comes to the centre of the screen, Vienna. A series of long shots are used to denote different parts of the city to the audience. Then a series of close ups showing what life is like for the narrator. We then see close up’s of 4 certain flags, showing us how the city is split up with the 4 major zones. Long shot to show one of the commander’s being transported around, then a close up showing added important, perhaps he is a commander from one of the 4 zones. It is important LS show us what Vienna is like after the war, and how the war has damaged the city. A mid shot is used for one normal person, this denotes that he is important to the film, we see that he is a common citizen and coming to Vienna for a job. The camera is used a great deal in the opening of The Third Man as it establish many different parts of Vienna, also different peoples lives within the city. Using a series of close ups and long shots to create purpose and meaning to the different features shown in the Vienna.
Editing – speed, style – A fade is used when displaying Vienna, this draws the attention of the audience to the city name. Then jump cuts are used for the rest of the opening, this is done to allow the audience to see what Vienna is like after the war, also how it has effect different people. The jump cuts, are a quick way to get from one shot to another, in this case a new bit of information about Vienna. How ever the shots were all roughly the same length when showing different aspects of Vienna, but then the show lengthens as a new character is introduced, this empathies how the character maybe important. This is helpful to me as I allow me to see that editing is used in different ways to portray different meanings.
Sound – effects, musical score – Narration is the only sound that is used in the opening of the film. This is done very well as he is explaining what has happened after the war to the town and people of Vienna. We begin to think that the narrator is the either an important character in the film due to how he explains certain circumstances using words like “ we “. Or he has a extended purpose in the film as tells the story of what has happen and how different people come into the film. This is very important if I am trying to recreate a film noir, narration is a important factor, portraying what happens in the film as the film may jump making it hard to understand.
Mise-en-scene – props, costume, setting, lighting, colour – It has been used to set the scene, portraying the nice and perhaps iconic areas of Vienna, making it seem to be an inviting city. It then jumps straight to a different side showing the lower class people having to sell what they can on the black market. Shots of troops and military vehicles surrounded my war torn property show that this will be a common sight, and a heavy influence on the film. A well-dressed man arrives on a train, he stands out as he looks different, so far the cast is either dressed in uniform or working clothing. His attire is a statement the he’s higher class.
Camera – distance, angle, movement – The actually film starts of with an ElS, establishing the film is set in the city. Then the name of the city where the film is set comes to the centre of the screen, Vienna. A series of long shots are used to denote different parts of the city to the audience. Then a series of close ups showing what life is like for the narrator. We then see close up’s of 4 certain flags, showing us how the city is split up with the 4 major zones. Long shot to show one of the commander’s being transported around, then a close up showing added important, perhaps he is a commander from one of the 4 zones. It is important LS show us what Vienna is like after the war, and how the war has damaged the city. A mid shot is used for one normal person, this denotes that he is important to the film, we see that he is a common citizen and coming to Vienna for a job. The camera is used a great deal in the opening of The Third Man as it establish many different parts of Vienna, also different peoples lives within the city. Using a series of close ups and long shots to create purpose and meaning to the different features shown in the Vienna.
Editing – speed, style – A fade is used when displaying Vienna, this draws the attention of the audience to the city name. Then jump cuts are used for the rest of the opening, this is done to allow the audience to see what Vienna is like after the war, also how it has effect different people. The jump cuts, are a quick way to get from one shot to another, in this case a new bit of information about Vienna. How ever the shots were all roughly the same length when showing different aspects of Vienna, but then the show lengthens as a new character is introduced, this empathies how the character maybe important. This is helpful to me as I allow me to see that editing is used in different ways to portray different meanings.
Sound – effects, musical score – Narration is the only sound that is used in the opening of the film. This is done very well as he is explaining what has happened after the war to the town and people of Vienna. We begin to think that the narrator is the either an important character in the film due to how he explains certain circumstances using words like “ we “. Or he has a extended purpose in the film as tells the story of what has happen and how different people come into the film. This is very important if I am trying to recreate a film noir, narration is a important factor, portraying what happens in the film as the film may jump making it hard to understand.
Mise-en-scene – props, costume, setting, lighting, colour – It has been used to set the scene, portraying the nice and perhaps iconic areas of Vienna, making it seem to be an inviting city. It then jumps straight to a different side showing the lower class people having to sell what they can on the black market. Shots of troops and military vehicles surrounded my war torn property show that this will be a common sight, and a heavy influence on the film. A well-dressed man arrives on a train, he stands out as he looks different, so far the cast is either dressed in uniform or working clothing. His attire is a statement the he’s higher class.
The Bourne Ultimatum
Camera – distance, angle, movement – The scene starts of with a low angle of the characters feet the camera is also shaky. We see a long shot of what the character is looking at, this allows the audience to see that he is seeing allowing us to get used to his surroundings. The a POV is shown to show that the character is in pain and also need medical help, this is further emphasized by him looking at the pharmacy sign, the fact the character is in pain it allows the audience to connect with the character. A mid shot is used to show the full extent of the characters injuries, connoting he has been through an ordeal. Then we see a close up of his face, but then a straight cut is made to a vivid image or memory. The mid shot of him holding a gun to a police officer creates a different side to his character and personality, but the zoom in shows his hand shaking and then him walking away, this shows his refusal to kill the innocent.
The camera is used well giving many different views of the man and his surroundings, giving the audience a sense of what the character could be going through.
Editing – speed, style – The pace of the shots quicken as the character sees the police. Fast past, straight cuts from the police to the character. The pace of the editing quickens again as the character is trying to find something. The fast pace of the shots carries on as he attacks the officer. The a breaks up the shots as we see a black screen, showing the character decides not to kill the police officer. The pace of the editing contrast with the pace of the character as he is slow and in pain. However it becomes parallel with what’s happening on scene as he sees the police and the shot of him attacking the police. This emphasises his injury and highlights that he has done something bad. However, when the police see him, his pace quickens, showing his desperation to get away. The pace is also fast with the straight cuts to the memory and the attack on the police officer. This is a good example of a quick opening using a lot of different shots to show suspense in a character and situation.
Sound – effects, musical score – The theme tune is very up beat. We hear the diegetic sounds of him stepping on the snow, also his heavy breathing being the primary sound. We then hear the diegetic sound of the police sirens, then the we hear the police talking they have a different accent meaning the character is in a different set of circumstances. The quick pace music links with the panic happening on scene this keeps the audience tense and engaged with the character and what is happening on shot. Sound is used very precisely in the opening. This grabs the audience’s attention keeping them engaged with what’s happening on shot.
Mise-en-scene – props, costume, setting, lighting, colour – audience sees snow and a dark setting. We see a character walking in with a limp wearing dark clothing, the pace of the walk and his expression connotes that he has either escaped or in the process. Then the police come into shot, we then see a sudden change in the characters facial expression as he beings to panic. We realize he is still in a lot of pain through his heavy breathing, and panicked expression. But there is a brief second where the character gives us hope as if he has got something up his sleeve or remembered something. When approaching the character see that the police are anxious and maybe scared. We suddenly see the police officer beg for his life, as the character has to contemplate what to do next. The lighting is quite dark in comparison to what’s taking place in the scene. However the character keeps the same facial expression throughout the scene, his body languages throughout also connotes his need to escape.
Editing – speed, style – The pace of the shots quicken as the character sees the police. Fast past, straight cuts from the police to the character. The pace of the editing quickens again as the character is trying to find something. The fast pace of the shots carries on as he attacks the officer. The a breaks up the shots as we see a black screen, showing the character decides not to kill the police officer. The pace of the editing contrast with the pace of the character as he is slow and in pain. However it becomes parallel with what’s happening on scene as he sees the police and the shot of him attacking the police. This emphasises his injury and highlights that he has done something bad. However, when the police see him, his pace quickens, showing his desperation to get away. The pace is also fast with the straight cuts to the memory and the attack on the police officer. This is a good example of a quick opening using a lot of different shots to show suspense in a character and situation.
Sound – effects, musical score – The theme tune is very up beat. We hear the diegetic sounds of him stepping on the snow, also his heavy breathing being the primary sound. We then hear the diegetic sound of the police sirens, then the we hear the police talking they have a different accent meaning the character is in a different set of circumstances. The quick pace music links with the panic happening on scene this keeps the audience tense and engaged with the character and what is happening on shot. Sound is used very precisely in the opening. This grabs the audience’s attention keeping them engaged with what’s happening on shot.
Mise-en-scene – props, costume, setting, lighting, colour – audience sees snow and a dark setting. We see a character walking in with a limp wearing dark clothing, the pace of the walk and his expression connotes that he has either escaped or in the process. Then the police come into shot, we then see a sudden change in the characters facial expression as he beings to panic. We realize he is still in a lot of pain through his heavy breathing, and panicked expression. But there is a brief second where the character gives us hope as if he has got something up his sleeve or remembered something. When approaching the character see that the police are anxious and maybe scared. We suddenly see the police officer beg for his life, as the character has to contemplate what to do next. The lighting is quite dark in comparison to what’s taking place in the scene. However the character keeps the same facial expression throughout the scene, his body languages throughout also connotes his need to escape.
Donnie Darko
Camera – distance, angle, movement –Panning was used to show a remote view of the mountains. The we see a pan of a road, this is an object on the floor the director then zooms in to show it is a human. The director uses a mid shot of the human, as he gets up of the floor, the camera then still tracks around the camera allowing the audiences too see the character. This makes the audience think that he is important to the film, perhaps a main character but it also confuses the audience as to why he is in such a remote destination and how has the situation come about. It is then cut to a POV of the character riding the bike. Furthermore, the variety of shots, also show the characters facial expression, which connects him with the audience, and reinforces the audiences confusion. The camera work is good as it makes the audience guess keeping and pay attention when they watch the first few minutes of the film.
Editing – speed, style – Slow pace editing links in with the music. Cuts from characters expression to view, to emphasis confusion. After title is introduced, screen fades out through light. Pace quickens as character rides bike, this is also reinforced through the non-diegetic music. The slow pace keeps the audience guessing and also allows the audience to take in the view, and what the character could be seeing furthermore this puts the audience in the character shoes. Overall the editing has been done to show that the man could be confused, as the editing is slow and so it the non diegetic music, this allows the audience to connect with the character. Furthermore the title of the film is brought to the centre of the screen directly after a close of the character this connotes that the character is Donnie Darko. There is a change in expression as the man begins to ride the bikes, showing he’s trying to escape the situation. The editing builds up tension as we are not sure what has happened to the character and why he has found himself in the situation.
Sound – effects, musical score – Diegetic sounds start of the film, then when the camera pans, we find that the music switches to Non diegetic, this connotes a change in atmosphere, as he starts to realise what has happened to him. The pace of the music quickens again when he is riding the bike. But there is change in the speed and pace of the sounds, but there is not tension of yet. In fact it could be thought of a soothing lace hearing the noises of the atmosphere as the titles are shown. There is no dialogue, but the character does express humour as he looks around, which connects him with the audience and shows a side of his personality- suggesting it is something he is familiar with. When on the bike, the music changes which links in with the pace again, and also connotes a change in atmosphere.
Mise-en-scene – props, costume, setting, lighting, colour – The lighting is dark to show early morning. The character seems to be sleepy or confused at the director slowly zooms in drawing our attention to the character, we see that he is dressed in pyjamas. The bike is also visible in the background of the shot. We then see a smile, as he realsies where he is and that thing are okay. Then new characteristics are seen like cars, houses etc, implying he is back in reality. When the character fist awakes he seems to be sleepy unsure of his surroundings, but slowly as he comes down the mountain it seems he slowly becoming more and more aware. Finally when he is back ro normal surrounding’s, you could say that he is back to reality. This is done very well as it makes the audience think that something bad and strange is happening to the character, making the audience want to carry on watching and find out.
Editing – speed, style – Slow pace editing links in with the music. Cuts from characters expression to view, to emphasis confusion. After title is introduced, screen fades out through light. Pace quickens as character rides bike, this is also reinforced through the non-diegetic music. The slow pace keeps the audience guessing and also allows the audience to take in the view, and what the character could be seeing furthermore this puts the audience in the character shoes. Overall the editing has been done to show that the man could be confused, as the editing is slow and so it the non diegetic music, this allows the audience to connect with the character. Furthermore the title of the film is brought to the centre of the screen directly after a close of the character this connotes that the character is Donnie Darko. There is a change in expression as the man begins to ride the bikes, showing he’s trying to escape the situation. The editing builds up tension as we are not sure what has happened to the character and why he has found himself in the situation.
Sound – effects, musical score – Diegetic sounds start of the film, then when the camera pans, we find that the music switches to Non diegetic, this connotes a change in atmosphere, as he starts to realise what has happened to him. The pace of the music quickens again when he is riding the bike. But there is change in the speed and pace of the sounds, but there is not tension of yet. In fact it could be thought of a soothing lace hearing the noises of the atmosphere as the titles are shown. There is no dialogue, but the character does express humour as he looks around, which connects him with the audience and shows a side of his personality- suggesting it is something he is familiar with. When on the bike, the music changes which links in with the pace again, and also connotes a change in atmosphere.
Mise-en-scene – props, costume, setting, lighting, colour – The lighting is dark to show early morning. The character seems to be sleepy or confused at the director slowly zooms in drawing our attention to the character, we see that he is dressed in pyjamas. The bike is also visible in the background of the shot. We then see a smile, as he realsies where he is and that thing are okay. Then new characteristics are seen like cars, houses etc, implying he is back in reality. When the character fist awakes he seems to be sleepy unsure of his surroundings, but slowly as he comes down the mountain it seems he slowly becoming more and more aware. Finally when he is back ro normal surrounding’s, you could say that he is back to reality. This is done very well as it makes the audience think that something bad and strange is happening to the character, making the audience want to carry on watching and find out.
Taxi 2
Camera – distance, angle, movement – Long shot used to establish the surrounding of opening scene, then swaps to a mid shot where we see the rally driver and co driver. Then swapping to another long shot there we see more of the surrounding’s, this is done because it allows is to see the pace of the opening and what the film could potentially be like. We also get close ups of the taxi and taxi driver, there are more close ups used when the taxi is in the scene, this allows the audience to see the main character and his taxi and due to the amount of close ups it tells the audience it is an important part of the film.
Editing – speed, style – The director makes the opening scene very quick and exciting this is further shown by the shots being very quick. Jumping from long shot to close up, adding pace and a race like feel to the opening. However there was a large amount of quick shots and close ups between the rally driver and the taxi driver, this was done to show the surprised emotion of the rally driver and the urgency of the taxi driver to get past. It gives the impression of dialogue going on between them during the race.
Sound – effects, musical score – We have diegetic sounds on the racing car, this is made to enhance the excitement of the opening scene, as it is all we hear drawing our attention into the speed and pace of the vehicle. Diegetic sound is also found with the dialogue between the racing driver and co – driver, we hear the tension in the voice as the race is important. Then we find that taxi comes into the race, where more diegetic dialogue is used as we hear that the taxi driver needs go get past, we can tell in his voice the frustration and anger building up as he is unable to get past. Non diegetic sounds is also used to enhance the sound of the vehicles, quickening the pace of the opening scene. We also hear the spectators shouting and screaming, but are not on the screen; the director has done this to make the race seem more real, this adds to the excitement that the spectators would feel when watching the race, also brings the audience closer to the film. Music is also added to build up the tension as the taxi driver is unable to get past, then we hear a drop in all sounds, then the pace quickens up to see the overtaking manoeuver. Sound has been very important in the opening as it builds up tension in the race, also brings the audience in with the film, allowing the audience to get involved with what’s happening onscreen.
Mise-en-scene – props, costume, setting, lighting, colour – Visually we are given a specked up, fully working race car with vinyl’s and an interior that is believable, this gives the audience a real feel for the film, and enhances the belief that there is a race is ongoing we switch to the the taxi, which has the appearance of being as standard as possible, but it is challenging the race car along a rally stage. .. Finally we see that the rally end with all the racing equipment as if it was an actually rally stage. Mise – en – scene is very important as it makes the opening scene more believable for the audience, however there is not much used in the opening of Taxi 2.
Editing – speed, style – The director makes the opening scene very quick and exciting this is further shown by the shots being very quick. Jumping from long shot to close up, adding pace and a race like feel to the opening. However there was a large amount of quick shots and close ups between the rally driver and the taxi driver, this was done to show the surprised emotion of the rally driver and the urgency of the taxi driver to get past. It gives the impression of dialogue going on between them during the race.
Sound – effects, musical score – We have diegetic sounds on the racing car, this is made to enhance the excitement of the opening scene, as it is all we hear drawing our attention into the speed and pace of the vehicle. Diegetic sound is also found with the dialogue between the racing driver and co – driver, we hear the tension in the voice as the race is important. Then we find that taxi comes into the race, where more diegetic dialogue is used as we hear that the taxi driver needs go get past, we can tell in his voice the frustration and anger building up as he is unable to get past. Non diegetic sounds is also used to enhance the sound of the vehicles, quickening the pace of the opening scene. We also hear the spectators shouting and screaming, but are not on the screen; the director has done this to make the race seem more real, this adds to the excitement that the spectators would feel when watching the race, also brings the audience closer to the film. Music is also added to build up the tension as the taxi driver is unable to get past, then we hear a drop in all sounds, then the pace quickens up to see the overtaking manoeuver. Sound has been very important in the opening as it builds up tension in the race, also brings the audience in with the film, allowing the audience to get involved with what’s happening onscreen.
Mise-en-scene – props, costume, setting, lighting, colour – Visually we are given a specked up, fully working race car with vinyl’s and an interior that is believable, this gives the audience a real feel for the film, and enhances the belief that there is a race is ongoing we switch to the the taxi, which has the appearance of being as standard as possible, but it is challenging the race car along a rally stage. .. Finally we see that the rally end with all the racing equipment as if it was an actually rally stage. Mise – en – scene is very important as it makes the opening scene more believable for the audience, however there is not much used in the opening of Taxi 2.
Sin City Research
We found that further research was needed on the conventions of a Film Noir. Sin City is the most recent and well known Film Noir to us, we decided to take a close look at how the camera is used to connote the female’s dominance in the opening. We found that the use of low angles was mainly used to make her look more dominant than him, to the use of dialogue is a powerful tool that we need to take into consideration as our opening has very little dialogue so far. Additionally we where going to use a balcony which is similar to Sin City, we had to be careful that we where not being to Cliché, but most thrillers especially Film Noir use similar conventions to sell for a mass audience.
Questionnaire Evaluation
In my questionnaire I ask both mean and women this is to give me points of view. I also asked people of different ages, this would give me the most all-round response from the biggest target audience, my ages ranged from 15+ to 46+ hopefully giving me the most varied responses.
I also asked what people found most exciting in a thriller; there were two that mainly stood out. One was to build up in the film consequently this means that the audience finds the buildup in tension and the greater suspense thrilling and exciting. Secondly the actual action of the film the climax of the film, this is generally where you find the majority of the action-taking place. Making it a good reason to be most exciting. This means that the thriller must be able to build up the suspense yet still be entertaining, and then have a good climax making all the film make sense in one sequence.
I asked whether the audience thinks a thriller should be a 15 or 18. The most common response was 15. This is because it is more about the build up and action, making it a prime film for teenagers. This is good as it targets the largest audience but still exciting and thrilling. I will make a 15 rated film, as it is easy to make in our circumstances also I am not 18 yet.
I also asked the question about how much gore they would expect to find in a thriller. I got a response of not much, meaning that they would expect some fighting or attacking but no real gory shots. This could be because the film would be targeted at a 15 rated audience not 18 where you would commonly find gore.
We wanted to find out what is the favorite type of character in a thriller, the one the audience most enjoys seeing. I found that an assassin was very popular this could be that it is slightly different, but also uses the conventions of a thriller very well, building up the suspense to a good climax, or ending sequence. Criminals or innocent victims on the run seemed to be popular because of the unknowing factor that is involved with either of the characters. I found out from this that there are a defiantly favorite in character but most importantly the characters need to fit the thriller genre, and use the conventions to their advantage.
Knowing what plot the audience would like to watch is important allowing me to target the thriller audience more directly. Political conspiracy was the most popular meaning that there is a sudden twist with the government rulings; this could range from police forces, to the prime-minister, Showing that there is man different variations in the plot. Then a pursuit of some sort was the second highest these can me related closely together as they leave the audience not know what going to happen next. This is important to me as I now what the audience would like to watch using a plot, but I am going to have to be careful making sure I don’t copy a previous film opening.
Hybrids are becoming more and more popular within the thriller genre; because of this I asked what the favorite hybrid was. Crime caper thrillers was very popular choice this would coincide with the favorite characters chosen as thriller audience likes to watch something that involve a criminal or the police etc. But action and adventure thriller were also a common choice because they allow a real story to build up with tension and suspense building up with it. Producing a good all round thriller, with some different conventions combing tow thrillers together.
I also listed Film Noir in the hybrid selection, it was not very popular, and this could because it is not very known as a hybrid. Or people do not like watching films in white and black. This is useful to me as it is not very popular as a thriller meaning I should not chose it however if done correctly it does make a very good thriller. If the group goes ahead and uses the Film Noir genre we must make sure that we are targeting a much wider audience involve maybe some new conventions from other hybrids not stick to the conventional ones of a Film Noir, making film appeal to a larger audience.
I also asked what people found most exciting in a thriller; there were two that mainly stood out. One was to build up in the film consequently this means that the audience finds the buildup in tension and the greater suspense thrilling and exciting. Secondly the actual action of the film the climax of the film, this is generally where you find the majority of the action-taking place. Making it a good reason to be most exciting. This means that the thriller must be able to build up the suspense yet still be entertaining, and then have a good climax making all the film make sense in one sequence.
I asked whether the audience thinks a thriller should be a 15 or 18. The most common response was 15. This is because it is more about the build up and action, making it a prime film for teenagers. This is good as it targets the largest audience but still exciting and thrilling. I will make a 15 rated film, as it is easy to make in our circumstances also I am not 18 yet.
I also asked the question about how much gore they would expect to find in a thriller. I got a response of not much, meaning that they would expect some fighting or attacking but no real gory shots. This could be because the film would be targeted at a 15 rated audience not 18 where you would commonly find gore.
We wanted to find out what is the favorite type of character in a thriller, the one the audience most enjoys seeing. I found that an assassin was very popular this could be that it is slightly different, but also uses the conventions of a thriller very well, building up the suspense to a good climax, or ending sequence. Criminals or innocent victims on the run seemed to be popular because of the unknowing factor that is involved with either of the characters. I found out from this that there are a defiantly favorite in character but most importantly the characters need to fit the thriller genre, and use the conventions to their advantage.
Knowing what plot the audience would like to watch is important allowing me to target the thriller audience more directly. Political conspiracy was the most popular meaning that there is a sudden twist with the government rulings; this could range from police forces, to the prime-minister, Showing that there is man different variations in the plot. Then a pursuit of some sort was the second highest these can me related closely together as they leave the audience not know what going to happen next. This is important to me as I now what the audience would like to watch using a plot, but I am going to have to be careful making sure I don’t copy a previous film opening.
Hybrids are becoming more and more popular within the thriller genre; because of this I asked what the favorite hybrid was. Crime caper thrillers was very popular choice this would coincide with the favorite characters chosen as thriller audience likes to watch something that involve a criminal or the police etc. But action and adventure thriller were also a common choice because they allow a real story to build up with tension and suspense building up with it. Producing a good all round thriller, with some different conventions combing tow thrillers together.
I also listed Film Noir in the hybrid selection, it was not very popular, and this could because it is not very known as a hybrid. Or people do not like watching films in white and black. This is useful to me as it is not very popular as a thriller meaning I should not chose it however if done correctly it does make a very good thriller. If the group goes ahead and uses the Film Noir genre we must make sure that we are targeting a much wider audience involve maybe some new conventions from other hybrids not stick to the conventional ones of a Film Noir, making film appeal to a larger audience.
Questionnaire Analysis
Are you male or female?
We have asked whether they are male or female because this could help us defied whether the more of one sex enjoys watching thrillers, if so what it is about a thriller that they like.
What age category do you fit into? (please circle)
15-17, 18-22, 25-30, 10-35, 36-40, 41- 45, 46+,
To see whether your age will effect if you would be likely to watch a thriller, and whether the thrillers attract a different age group and why.
What part of a thriller film do you find most exciting?
To see what part of the film we feel is the most and why it is that we think this.
How much gore do you expect to see in a thriller?
This is to find out what we would expect to find in the thriller; in this case it is how much gore we would expect.
What are your favourite types of characters in thrillers? (Tick as many as apply)
Criminals
Stalkers
Assassins
Innocent victims (often on the run)
Menaced women
Characters with dark pasts
Psychotic individuals
Terrorists
Cops and escaped cons
Private eyes
People involved in twisted relationships
World-weary men and women
Psycho-fiends
This is to see in general what do we cant to find in our thriller, and why these types of characters are out favorite.
What are your favourite plots of a thriller? (Tick as many as apply)
Terrorism
Political conspiracy
Pursuit,
Romantic triangles leading to murder
We do this so it gives us an idea on why people like to see certain types of thrillers, also this should be compared with the types of characters, also we want to know what it is about the theme that we like.
What is your favourite hybrid selection of thrillers? (Tick as many as apply)
Action- or adventure thrillers
Sci-fi thrillers
Crime-caper thrillers
Western thrillers
Film-noir thrillers
We also have genres this is so we know what in general is the most liked sub genre, and if it would be worth it for us do produce a sub genre thriller.
This questionnaire is good as we find out what people look for in a thriller film, with good general questions covering all aspects of a thriller film. However there need to be more questions about why, so that we can find out what it is about the specific’s of the thriller they enjoy.
We have asked whether they are male or female because this could help us defied whether the more of one sex enjoys watching thrillers, if so what it is about a thriller that they like.
What age category do you fit into? (please circle)
15-17, 18-22, 25-30, 10-35, 36-40, 41- 45, 46+,
To see whether your age will effect if you would be likely to watch a thriller, and whether the thrillers attract a different age group and why.
What part of a thriller film do you find most exciting?
To see what part of the film we feel is the most and why it is that we think this.
How much gore do you expect to see in a thriller?
This is to find out what we would expect to find in the thriller; in this case it is how much gore we would expect.
What are your favourite types of characters in thrillers? (Tick as many as apply)
Criminals
Stalkers
Assassins
Innocent victims (often on the run)
Menaced women
Characters with dark pasts
Psychotic individuals
Terrorists
Cops and escaped cons
Private eyes
People involved in twisted relationships
World-weary men and women
Psycho-fiends
This is to see in general what do we cant to find in our thriller, and why these types of characters are out favorite.
What are your favourite plots of a thriller? (Tick as many as apply)
Terrorism
Political conspiracy
Pursuit,
Romantic triangles leading to murder
We do this so it gives us an idea on why people like to see certain types of thrillers, also this should be compared with the types of characters, also we want to know what it is about the theme that we like.
What is your favourite hybrid selection of thrillers? (Tick as many as apply)
Action- or adventure thrillers
Sci-fi thrillers
Crime-caper thrillers
Western thrillers
Film-noir thrillers
We also have genres this is so we know what in general is the most liked sub genre, and if it would be worth it for us do produce a sub genre thriller.
This questionnaire is good as we find out what people look for in a thriller film, with good general questions covering all aspects of a thriller film. However there need to be more questions about why, so that we can find out what it is about the specific’s of the thriller they enjoy.
Questionaire
Target Audience Survey
Are you male or female?
What age category do you fit into? (please circle)
15-17, 18-22, 25-30, 10-35, 36-40, 41- 45, 46+,
What part of a thriller film do you find most exciting?
How much gore do you expect to see in a thriller?
What are your favourite types of characters in thrillers? (Tick as many as apply)
Criminals
Stalkers
Assassins
Innocent victims (often on the run)
Menaced women
Characters with dark pasts
Psychotic individuals
Terrorists
Cops and escaped cons
Private eyes
People involved in twisted relationships
World-weary men and women
Psycho-fiends
What are your favourite plots of a thriller? (Tick as many as apply)
Terrorism
Political conspiracy
Pursuit,
Romantic triangles leading to murder
What is your favourite hybrid selection of thrillers? (Tick as many as apply)
Action- or adventure thrillers
Sci-fi thrillers
Crime-caper thrillers
Western thrillers
Film-noir thrillers
Are you male or female?
What age category do you fit into? (please circle)
15-17, 18-22, 25-30, 10-35, 36-40, 41- 45, 46+,
What part of a thriller film do you find most exciting?
How much gore do you expect to see in a thriller?
What are your favourite types of characters in thrillers? (Tick as many as apply)
Criminals
Stalkers
Assassins
Innocent victims (often on the run)
Menaced women
Characters with dark pasts
Psychotic individuals
Terrorists
Cops and escaped cons
Private eyes
People involved in twisted relationships
World-weary men and women
Psycho-fiends
What are your favourite plots of a thriller? (Tick as many as apply)
Terrorism
Political conspiracy
Pursuit,
Romantic triangles leading to murder
What is your favourite hybrid selection of thrillers? (Tick as many as apply)
Action- or adventure thrillers
Sci-fi thrillers
Crime-caper thrillers
Western thrillers
Film-noir thrillers
Film Noir
Film Noir was used to show the corruption and betrayal in the 1950’s after the war. Generally including a physiological thriller, mystery and private eye are the three main types of Film Noir that you will most commonly watch.
Lighting is very important in Film Noir, as there is more lighting used when portraying the women showing that they are good. Then uses either dark lighting on the male to show that they are bad/evil. Also large shadows are cast to denote something evil.
The Film will try to leave the audience unsettled and on edge. This is why the film classifies as a thriller because the elements that make the film are very similar also the fact that the point of the film is building up tension like a thriller.
Characteristics –
– Gangster
– Police
– Gothic
– Social Problems
– Urban Setting
– Open Roads
– Dramatic Light Expression
– Flash Backs
– Narrator
– Animation
Sin City is a good example of a recent Film Noir, is uses all the main codes and conventions of a Film Noir and one of a thriller. This is relevant to me as we will try to recreate a modern day Film Noir like Sin City.
I can use Film Noir as my thriller opening; I found this information out as it gives be a brief out line of Film Noir allowing me to consider it as a possibility. I think If I use the characteristic’s correctly I will be able to produce a good opening keeping the audience entertained but not giving the film away. Also we are able to get all the props needed to make a good all round Film Noir, furthermore we can use the school or surrounding roads as our urban environment. I personally like Film Noir as it is different and uses a variety of codes that are similar to the ones of a thriller.
Lighting is very important in Film Noir, as there is more lighting used when portraying the women showing that they are good. Then uses either dark lighting on the male to show that they are bad/evil. Also large shadows are cast to denote something evil.
The Film will try to leave the audience unsettled and on edge. This is why the film classifies as a thriller because the elements that make the film are very similar also the fact that the point of the film is building up tension like a thriller.
Characteristics –
– Gangster
– Police
– Gothic
– Social Problems
– Urban Setting
– Open Roads
– Dramatic Light Expression
– Flash Backs
– Narrator
– Animation
Sin City is a good example of a recent Film Noir, is uses all the main codes and conventions of a Film Noir and one of a thriller. This is relevant to me as we will try to recreate a modern day Film Noir like Sin City.
I can use Film Noir as my thriller opening; I found this information out as it gives be a brief out line of Film Noir allowing me to consider it as a possibility. I think If I use the characteristic’s correctly I will be able to produce a good opening keeping the audience entertained but not giving the film away. Also we are able to get all the props needed to make a good all round Film Noir, furthermore we can use the school or surrounding roads as our urban environment. I personally like Film Noir as it is different and uses a variety of codes that are similar to the ones of a thriller.
Film Classification
15 –
Discrimination - Must not endorse discriminatory language or behaviour.
Drugs - Drug taking may be shown but the film as a whole must not promote or encourage drug misuse. The misuse of easily accessible and highly dangerous substances (for example, aerosols or solvents) is unlikely to be acceptable.
Horror - Strong threat and menace are permitted unless sadistic or sexualised.
Imitable behaviour - Dangerous behaviour (for example, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on detail, which could be copied. Easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised.
Language - There may be frequent use of strong language (for example, ‘fuck’). The strongest terms (for example, ‘cunt’) may be acceptable if justified by the context. Aggressive or repeated use of the strongest language is unlikely to be acceptable.
Nudity - Nudity may be allowed in a sexual context but without strong detail. There are no constraints on nudity in a non-sexual or educational context.
Sex - Sexual activity may be portrayed without strong detail. There may be strong verbal references to sexual behaviour, but the strongest references are unlikely to be acceptable unless justified by context. Works whose primary purpose is sexual arousal or stimulation are unlikely to be acceptable.
Theme - No theme is prohibited, provided the treatment is appropriate for 15 year olds.
Violence - Violence may be strong but should not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury. The strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable. Strong sadistic or sexualised violence is also unlikely to be acceptable. There may be detailed verbal references to sexual violence but any portrayal of sexual violence must be discreet and have a strong contextual justification.
18 –
No-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 and The Human Rights Act 1998, at ‘18’ the BBFC’s guideline concerns will not normally override the principle that adults should be free to choose their own entertainment. Exceptions are most likely in the following areas:
– where the material is in breach of the criminal law, or has been created through the commission of a criminal offence
– where material or treatment appears to the BBFC to risk harm to individuals or, through their behaviour, to society – for example, any detailed portrayal of violent or dangerous acts, or of illegal drug use, which may cause harm to public health or morals. This may include portrayals of sexual or sexualised violence which might, for example, eroticise or endorse sexual assault.
Sex education at ‘18’ Where sex material genuinely seeks to inform and educate in matters such as human sexuality, safer sex and health, explicit images of sexual activity may be permitted.
The difference in a 15 to 18 is quite large, with 18 allowing a lot more detailed language. Furthermore it also allows more detailed violence, with this we can see more drugs used in different ways. Sex in heavily used in 18 rated films as it is more acceptable whereas its not allowed to be show unless for educational reason in a 15. Also 18 uses all these things to make the film have an effect, but in a 15 they would not able to be used to the same extent also would have to be for a specific reason eg: for education.
Taking this into account I will be producing a 15 rated film this is because one we are not 18 yet so making an 18 rated film would not be viable. Also we can use more features from a 15 rated film in the school compounds, giving a easier production, making the end result a lot more realistic and better all rounder.
Discrimination - Must not endorse discriminatory language or behaviour.
Drugs - Drug taking may be shown but the film as a whole must not promote or encourage drug misuse. The misuse of easily accessible and highly dangerous substances (for example, aerosols or solvents) is unlikely to be acceptable.
Horror - Strong threat and menace are permitted unless sadistic or sexualised.
Imitable behaviour - Dangerous behaviour (for example, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on detail, which could be copied. Easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised.
Language - There may be frequent use of strong language (for example, ‘fuck’). The strongest terms (for example, ‘cunt’) may be acceptable if justified by the context. Aggressive or repeated use of the strongest language is unlikely to be acceptable.
Nudity - Nudity may be allowed in a sexual context but without strong detail. There are no constraints on nudity in a non-sexual or educational context.
Sex - Sexual activity may be portrayed without strong detail. There may be strong verbal references to sexual behaviour, but the strongest references are unlikely to be acceptable unless justified by context. Works whose primary purpose is sexual arousal or stimulation are unlikely to be acceptable.
Theme - No theme is prohibited, provided the treatment is appropriate for 15 year olds.
Violence - Violence may be strong but should not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury. The strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable. Strong sadistic or sexualised violence is also unlikely to be acceptable. There may be detailed verbal references to sexual violence but any portrayal of sexual violence must be discreet and have a strong contextual justification.
18 –
No-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 and The Human Rights Act 1998, at ‘18’ the BBFC’s guideline concerns will not normally override the principle that adults should be free to choose their own entertainment. Exceptions are most likely in the following areas:
– where the material is in breach of the criminal law, or has been created through the commission of a criminal offence
– where material or treatment appears to the BBFC to risk harm to individuals or, through their behaviour, to society – for example, any detailed portrayal of violent or dangerous acts, or of illegal drug use, which may cause harm to public health or morals. This may include portrayals of sexual or sexualised violence which might, for example, eroticise or endorse sexual assault.
Sex education at ‘18’ Where sex material genuinely seeks to inform and educate in matters such as human sexuality, safer sex and health, explicit images of sexual activity may be permitted.
The difference in a 15 to 18 is quite large, with 18 allowing a lot more detailed language. Furthermore it also allows more detailed violence, with this we can see more drugs used in different ways. Sex in heavily used in 18 rated films as it is more acceptable whereas its not allowed to be show unless for educational reason in a 15. Also 18 uses all these things to make the film have an effect, but in a 15 they would not able to be used to the same extent also would have to be for a specific reason eg: for education.
Taking this into account I will be producing a 15 rated film this is because one we are not 18 yet so making an 18 rated film would not be viable. Also we can use more features from a 15 rated film in the school compounds, giving a easier production, making the end result a lot more realistic and better all rounder.
Hybrid / Sub Genre Research
Thriller subgenres –
Action thriller
Adventure thriller
Sci-fi thriller
Crime thriller
Film Noir
These are the 5 move popular thriller sub genres. I can uses anyone of them for a more specific type of thriller, I have looked at them all in detail, but I like the effects of Film Noir uses different conventions that are not commonly used in standard thriller making Film Noir stand out as something a bit different and will keep the audiences attention and keep them excited.
Hybridization –
Action adventure thriller
Crime Horror thriller
Crime Mystery thriller
These are the three main hybrids that are used in thrillers. I have looked at the separately and now concluded that crime mystery thriller would be the best all rounder. This is because they are very similar, but also can be related to a thriller in how the make the audience feels in building up the suspense in a film. Hybrids allow the audience to get different characteristics from there own separate genre, but they come together to make a different thriller that targets a wider audience. This is why hybrids are so popular.
Thriller is a genre that I will be focusing on. However I must take into account sub genres and hybridization. In this case my group is thinking of using Film noir in the thriller. The reasons we have come to this decisions is that in Film Noir we would use all the conventions of a thriller but still have the ability of making it individual.
Action thriller
Adventure thriller
Sci-fi thriller
Crime thriller
Film Noir
These are the 5 move popular thriller sub genres. I can uses anyone of them for a more specific type of thriller, I have looked at them all in detail, but I like the effects of Film Noir uses different conventions that are not commonly used in standard thriller making Film Noir stand out as something a bit different and will keep the audiences attention and keep them excited.
Hybridization –
Action adventure thriller
Crime Horror thriller
Crime Mystery thriller
These are the three main hybrids that are used in thrillers. I have looked at the separately and now concluded that crime mystery thriller would be the best all rounder. This is because they are very similar, but also can be related to a thriller in how the make the audience feels in building up the suspense in a film. Hybrids allow the audience to get different characteristics from there own separate genre, but they come together to make a different thriller that targets a wider audience. This is why hybrids are so popular.
Thriller is a genre that I will be focusing on. However I must take into account sub genres and hybridization. In this case my group is thinking of using Film noir in the thriller. The reasons we have come to this decisions is that in Film Noir we would use all the conventions of a thriller but still have the ability of making it individual.
Conventions of a Thriller
Music –
Thrillers generally use slow and quite quiet music to set the scene; this is used as it builds up tension right from the start, and gives us an insight of what the characters are like. This can be more dramatic in an opening that what you actually see because this builds up the tension, also we generally find something gloomy or bad happening with the main character in the opening scenes.
Music within film is very important. Not only it helps to create the ambience of the film and its plot, it also helps to evoke the emotions of the characters, so that the audience gets to feel the same thing. Without music, the film won't have as much of an impact as it does with music. Music can be the most important part of a film to support feelings like sadness, joy, pain, tension, triumph, suspense, intrigue, patriotism, danger, fright, folly or fury.
Setting –
The setting of a thriller generally includes, time, location all the main locations of the film/story and often will set the mood for the film. There are elements used in a thriller’s also you will find a plot, character theme and style which all are used to set the scene within a thriller.
Thrillers mostly take place in ordinary suburbs/cities. Though sometimes they maybe set in exotic settings such as deserts, polar regions, or the high seas. The heroes in most thrillers are frequently ordinary citizens unaccustomed to danger. However, more common in crime thrillers, they may also be "hard men" used to danger, like, police officers and detectives. While such heroes have traditionally been men, women lead characters have become increasingly common.
Characters –
Generally, thrillers focus on plot over character, and thus emphasize intense. Characters in thrillers include criminals, stalkers, assassins , innocent victims, menaced women, characters with dark pasts, individuals, terrorist, cops and escaped cons. The themes of thrillers frequently include terrorism or romantic triangles leading to murder.
Mise – En – Scene –
When applied to the cinema, mise-en-scène refers to everything that appears before the camera and its arrangement—comparison, sets, props, actors, costumes, and lighting. Mise-en-scène also includes the positioning and movement of actors on the set.
Decor –
An important element of "putting in the scene" is décor, the objects contained in and the setting of a scene. Décor can be used to amplify character emotion or the dominant mood of a film.
Lighting –
The intensity, direction, and quality of lighting have a profound effect on the way an image is perceived. Light affects the way colors are rendered, both in terms of hue and depth, and can focus attention on particular elements of the composition.
Space –
The representation of space affects the reading of a film. Depth, proximity, size and proportions of the places and objects in a film can be manipulated through camera placement and lenses, lighting, decor, effectively determining mood or relationships between elements in the story world.
Costume –
Costume simply refers to the clothes that thecharacters wear. Using certain colors or designs, costumes in narrative cinema is used to signify characters or to make clear distinctions between the characters.
Acting –
There is enormous historical and cultural variation in performance styles in the cinema. Early melodramatic styles, clearly indebted to the 19th century theater, gave way in Western cinema to a relatively naturalistic style.
Narrative –
A narrator is, within any movie, the person who tells the story to the audience. When the narrator is also a character within the story. A narrator may tell the story from his own point of view or from the point of view of one of the characters in the story. The act or process of telling the particulars of a story is referred to as narration, along with exposition, argumentation, and description, narration.
Camera work –
Cutting between shots is as old as filmmaking, and for good reason. The stories that the first directors wished to record might run near half an hour, but their cameras could hold only a few minutes worth of film.
To solve the problem, they shot scenes in short sections, spliced the separate film strips together, and so invented the cut from one shot to the next.
Shot which shows all or most of a fairly large subject (for example, a person) and usually much of the surroundings. Extreme Long Shot (ELS) see establishing shot: In this type of shot the camera is at its furthest distance from the subject, emphasising the background. Medium Long Shot (MLS): In the case of a standing actor, the lower frame line cuts off his feet and ankles. Some documentaries with social themes favor keeping people in the longer shots, keeping social circumstances rather than the individual as the focus of attention.
Editing –
It involves the selection and combining of shots into sequences , and ultimately creating a finished motion picture. Film editing is the only art that is unique to cinema, separating film making from other art forms that preceded it. Film editing is often referred to as the "invisible art because when it is well-practiced, the viewer can become so engaged that he or she is not even aware of the editor's work.
On its most fundamental level, film editing is the art, technique, and practice of assembling shots into a coherent whole. A film editor is a person who practices film editing by assembling the footage. However, the job of an editor isn’t simply to mechanically put pieces of a film together, dialogue scenes. A film editor must creatively work with the layers of images, story, dialogue, music, pacing, as well as the actors' performances to effectively "re-imagine" and even rewrite the film to craft a cohesive whole. Editors usually play a dynamic role in the making of a film.
Thrillers generally use slow and quite quiet music to set the scene; this is used as it builds up tension right from the start, and gives us an insight of what the characters are like. This can be more dramatic in an opening that what you actually see because this builds up the tension, also we generally find something gloomy or bad happening with the main character in the opening scenes.
Music within film is very important. Not only it helps to create the ambience of the film and its plot, it also helps to evoke the emotions of the characters, so that the audience gets to feel the same thing. Without music, the film won't have as much of an impact as it does with music. Music can be the most important part of a film to support feelings like sadness, joy, pain, tension, triumph, suspense, intrigue, patriotism, danger, fright, folly or fury.
Setting –
The setting of a thriller generally includes, time, location all the main locations of the film/story and often will set the mood for the film. There are elements used in a thriller’s also you will find a plot, character theme and style which all are used to set the scene within a thriller.
Thrillers mostly take place in ordinary suburbs/cities. Though sometimes they maybe set in exotic settings such as deserts, polar regions, or the high seas. The heroes in most thrillers are frequently ordinary citizens unaccustomed to danger. However, more common in crime thrillers, they may also be "hard men" used to danger, like, police officers and detectives. While such heroes have traditionally been men, women lead characters have become increasingly common.
Characters –
Generally, thrillers focus on plot over character, and thus emphasize intense. Characters in thrillers include criminals, stalkers, assassins , innocent victims, menaced women, characters with dark pasts, individuals, terrorist, cops and escaped cons. The themes of thrillers frequently include terrorism or romantic triangles leading to murder.
Mise – En – Scene –
When applied to the cinema, mise-en-scène refers to everything that appears before the camera and its arrangement—comparison, sets, props, actors, costumes, and lighting. Mise-en-scène also includes the positioning and movement of actors on the set.
Decor –
An important element of "putting in the scene" is décor, the objects contained in and the setting of a scene. Décor can be used to amplify character emotion or the dominant mood of a film.
Lighting –
The intensity, direction, and quality of lighting have a profound effect on the way an image is perceived. Light affects the way colors are rendered, both in terms of hue and depth, and can focus attention on particular elements of the composition.
Space –
The representation of space affects the reading of a film. Depth, proximity, size and proportions of the places and objects in a film can be manipulated through camera placement and lenses, lighting, decor, effectively determining mood or relationships between elements in the story world.
Costume –
Costume simply refers to the clothes that thecharacters wear. Using certain colors or designs, costumes in narrative cinema is used to signify characters or to make clear distinctions between the characters.
Acting –
There is enormous historical and cultural variation in performance styles in the cinema. Early melodramatic styles, clearly indebted to the 19th century theater, gave way in Western cinema to a relatively naturalistic style.
Narrative –
A narrator is, within any movie, the person who tells the story to the audience. When the narrator is also a character within the story. A narrator may tell the story from his own point of view or from the point of view of one of the characters in the story. The act or process of telling the particulars of a story is referred to as narration, along with exposition, argumentation, and description, narration.
Camera work –
Cutting between shots is as old as filmmaking, and for good reason. The stories that the first directors wished to record might run near half an hour, but their cameras could hold only a few minutes worth of film.
To solve the problem, they shot scenes in short sections, spliced the separate film strips together, and so invented the cut from one shot to the next.
Shot which shows all or most of a fairly large subject (for example, a person) and usually much of the surroundings. Extreme Long Shot (ELS) see establishing shot: In this type of shot the camera is at its furthest distance from the subject, emphasising the background. Medium Long Shot (MLS): In the case of a standing actor, the lower frame line cuts off his feet and ankles. Some documentaries with social themes favor keeping people in the longer shots, keeping social circumstances rather than the individual as the focus of attention.
Editing –
It involves the selection and combining of shots into sequences , and ultimately creating a finished motion picture. Film editing is the only art that is unique to cinema, separating film making from other art forms that preceded it. Film editing is often referred to as the "invisible art because when it is well-practiced, the viewer can become so engaged that he or she is not even aware of the editor's work.
On its most fundamental level, film editing is the art, technique, and practice of assembling shots into a coherent whole. A film editor is a person who practices film editing by assembling the footage. However, the job of an editor isn’t simply to mechanically put pieces of a film together, dialogue scenes. A film editor must creatively work with the layers of images, story, dialogue, music, pacing, as well as the actors' performances to effectively "re-imagine" and even rewrite the film to craft a cohesive whole. Editors usually play a dynamic role in the making of a film.
Code of a Thriller
Camera –
CU - This shot focuses on someone’s face or something, showing very little background.
ECU - Very specific showing a specific detail like an eye. There is no background in these shots, which makes the shot more dramatic.
MS - Most commonly featured in a dialogue scene where half of a characters body is visible.
LS - This shot captures all of a characters body . Quite a lot of background is seen, generally used to set the scene.
Pov – This is used as if we are seeing that the actor would be seeing, making the scene or action a lot more dramatic and grabs the audiences attention.
CU and MS are the most used camera types in thrillers because they offer more detail making it seem more dramatic to the audience.
Camera Angles –
Low Angle - Camera positioned low down, which increases the size of the character/object as it takes up the screen, conoting power.
High Angle - Camera positioned high up, so it is lookin down on a character/object making it seem smaller and less significant.
We generally fine that protagonist's are show by a low angle, making them seem strong and powerful.
Camera Movement –
Panning - When the camera follows a moving object. This is generally done slowly to create a mysterious atmosphere.
Surveying Pan - Shows the audience the setting/scene.
Tilt - Vertically moving the camera up or down.
Zoom - Magnifying the camera to focus on something, generally to create empathies.
We find all of these generally in a thriller this is because we generally need to see the setting, zooming also helps to add empathies on a certain character or object.
Editing –
Cut - Sudden change of shot from one viewpoint.
Jump Cut - Sharply switches from one scene to another.
Matched Cut - Change in shot where the large shot was similar to the next making it seem smooth.
Cutting rate - When cuts are made frequently to interrupt action.
Cross Cut -Switches from one action scene to another.
Cutaway - intercutting shot between same scene or subject to shorten time.
Fade and dissolve - a gradual transition between a shot. In a fade, picture appears (comes in) or disapears (goes out).
Jump cuts and fast pace cut are generally used in Thriller this is because it add th tension of the film. However we find fades and dissolves as this creates suspense and builds up the tension.
Sound –
Diegetic sound - Dialogue between characters (on screen), also it noises that happen on screen.
Non diegetic sound - Music in the background (off screen) which are used to add empathies.
Studio sound - Recorded sound the improve its quality.
Sound Bridge - Adding a continuity, by running sound from one shot to another doing the same as a matched cut.
Music - Helps the establish the films rhythm and pace.
We find a combination diegetic and Non diegetic sounds in a thriller the variety makes the film flow. Sound bridges are also widely used, so action seems fluent.
Mise-en-scene –
This is all the props/objects.
Props in thriller include: guns, knives, cars, boats etc
Mise-en-scene is the most important aspect of a thriller. It shows meaning, also makes the film seem more real and more believable.
Lighting –
Soft/ Harsh Lighting – This can be artificial or real lighting. It is used to make a setting seem more real. It is used in a thriller to make the scene more realistic and adds empathies.
Text – This is generally used at the start and end of the film giving you a brief amount on information about the film. There is text used in the film as well for added emphasis.
Lighting is very important as it allows the audience to see key points of the scene, this is important as the director will use lighting to accent certain character’s or object’s.
I have found the codes that are used to create a film, and then I have chosen the key codes, which are used to create a thriller film. Further more I have written how they are used in a thriller also what makes them important. I have added this because I will use this information I have gathered in my thriller opening, I will try to add as many of the codes as possible to create a exciting thriller that does not give away the plot or ability to follow of the film.
CU - This shot focuses on someone’s face or something, showing very little background.
ECU - Very specific showing a specific detail like an eye. There is no background in these shots, which makes the shot more dramatic.
MS - Most commonly featured in a dialogue scene where half of a characters body is visible.
LS - This shot captures all of a characters body . Quite a lot of background is seen, generally used to set the scene.
Pov – This is used as if we are seeing that the actor would be seeing, making the scene or action a lot more dramatic and grabs the audiences attention.
CU and MS are the most used camera types in thrillers because they offer more detail making it seem more dramatic to the audience.
Camera Angles –
Low Angle - Camera positioned low down, which increases the size of the character/object as it takes up the screen, conoting power.
High Angle - Camera positioned high up, so it is lookin down on a character/object making it seem smaller and less significant.
We generally fine that protagonist's are show by a low angle, making them seem strong and powerful.
Camera Movement –
Panning - When the camera follows a moving object. This is generally done slowly to create a mysterious atmosphere.
Surveying Pan - Shows the audience the setting/scene.
Tilt - Vertically moving the camera up or down.
Zoom - Magnifying the camera to focus on something, generally to create empathies.
We find all of these generally in a thriller this is because we generally need to see the setting, zooming also helps to add empathies on a certain character or object.
Editing –
Cut - Sudden change of shot from one viewpoint.
Jump Cut - Sharply switches from one scene to another.
Matched Cut - Change in shot where the large shot was similar to the next making it seem smooth.
Cutting rate - When cuts are made frequently to interrupt action.
Cross Cut -Switches from one action scene to another.
Cutaway - intercutting shot between same scene or subject to shorten time.
Fade and dissolve - a gradual transition between a shot. In a fade, picture appears (comes in) or disapears (goes out).
Jump cuts and fast pace cut are generally used in Thriller this is because it add th tension of the film. However we find fades and dissolves as this creates suspense and builds up the tension.
Sound –
Diegetic sound - Dialogue between characters (on screen), also it noises that happen on screen.
Non diegetic sound - Music in the background (off screen) which are used to add empathies.
Studio sound - Recorded sound the improve its quality.
Sound Bridge - Adding a continuity, by running sound from one shot to another doing the same as a matched cut.
Music - Helps the establish the films rhythm and pace.
We find a combination diegetic and Non diegetic sounds in a thriller the variety makes the film flow. Sound bridges are also widely used, so action seems fluent.
Mise-en-scene –
This is all the props/objects.
Props in thriller include: guns, knives, cars, boats etc
Mise-en-scene is the most important aspect of a thriller. It shows meaning, also makes the film seem more real and more believable.
Lighting –
Soft/ Harsh Lighting – This can be artificial or real lighting. It is used to make a setting seem more real. It is used in a thriller to make the scene more realistic and adds empathies.
Text – This is generally used at the start and end of the film giving you a brief amount on information about the film. There is text used in the film as well for added emphasis.
Lighting is very important as it allows the audience to see key points of the scene, this is important as the director will use lighting to accent certain character’s or object’s.
I have found the codes that are used to create a film, and then I have chosen the key codes, which are used to create a thriller film. Further more I have written how they are used in a thriller also what makes them important. I have added this because I will use this information I have gathered in my thriller opening, I will try to add as many of the codes as possible to create a exciting thriller that does not give away the plot or ability to follow of the film.
Group Research
Music –
Thrillers generally use slow and quite quiet music to set the scene. This is used as a means to builds tension and gives us an insight into the characters. This can be more dramatic in an opening as it has built tension and anticipation before you have seen anything visual.
Music within film is very important. Not only it helps to create the ambience of the film and its plot, it also helps to evoke the emotions of the characters, so that the audience gets to feel the same thing. Without music, the film won't have as much of an impact as it does with music. Music can be the most important part of a film to support feelings like sadness, joy, pain, tension, triumph, suspense, intrigue, patriotism, danger, fright, folly or fury.
Most films have between 40 and 120 minutes of music. However, some films have very little or no music; others may feature a score that plays almost continuously throughout. This is called source music because it comes from an on screen source that can actually be seen on screen this is called diegetic music.
This is use full to me because I now know that I can use slow music that helps build up tension with in the opening scene. However we need either a slower pace of music or an up beat quick pace to show the characters and allow the audience to see what they are like. Furthermore I have found music helps to explain the feelings, which is difficult to put across visually. Understanding this will help me choose appropriate music for my opening.
Soundtrack –
The term soundtrack is commonly referred to music used in movies; also we generally find there is an album sold coinciding with the film using the music featured in the film. The sound track of the opening to the film is to show tension, or mystery and even crime depending on the type of thriller the film is. At the end of the movie the credits are shown a song is used to give further interest this may be licensed beyond use in the film more importantly if it gets radio play it becomes a marketing tool. Songs associated with a film could be played on radio stations during the launch and release phases of the film to help spread a buzz to fans of the music and just people tune in.
However we also find that there are many different types of sound tracks not only the music-based type. There is a dialogue track, where the character speaking gets put into a soundtrack, sound effects track also where all the sound effects used get sectioned of into another sound track. And then finally a music track which is most commonly known with all the music used in the film in one soundtrack.
The sound track is not used as much in the opening of a thriller, however it is used in the duration of a film. It is helpful to know that all the types of sounds tracks get put into different categories. I can do the same with the opening of the thriller and use different types of sound tracks, then bringing them together to make the final product.
Style of Title –
Title sequence designs for films have evolved immensely over the years. Title sequences can range from bland black backgrounds with superimposed text over it to simply identify the film name or they could be wildly creative and fun. The truth of the matter is that a title sequence also speaks volumes about the movie itself before it begins. Title sequences can make or break movies, they are the first impressions of their own shows, not just a bland identification report.
This is use full as the title is the first thing generally that you will look at. We find many different types of titles, ranging from cartoon style titles, to brightly coloured ones to even black and white ones. This means that there are many different titles and it is also depends on it if it’s the style of film that you are producing. Eg for a thriller film I think I would need something a bit more simplistic but still gets the point of the film across and states the name of the film for the audience to see.
Likes –
I like a thriller because they use many different elements to draw the audience in. In a thriller we will find suspense leaving the audience on the edge of their seats not knowing what going to happen next. Also tension is used in the same way. Thrillers are always very exciting they use different features like music and a variety of sound effects to keep the audiences attention also making the films seem more real than other types of genres for example a comedy.
Dislike –
However if the main elements in a thriller are not used correctly the film can become very dull and obvious. This is the same for a thriller openings, where we are either able to see too much of the what the film is going to be like allowing us to work out the film and the elements it uses, if the music is not used correctly for example then the film will have no impact on the audience making the film seem boring and irrelevant.
Thrillers generally use slow and quite quiet music to set the scene. This is used as a means to builds tension and gives us an insight into the characters. This can be more dramatic in an opening as it has built tension and anticipation before you have seen anything visual.
Music within film is very important. Not only it helps to create the ambience of the film and its plot, it also helps to evoke the emotions of the characters, so that the audience gets to feel the same thing. Without music, the film won't have as much of an impact as it does with music. Music can be the most important part of a film to support feelings like sadness, joy, pain, tension, triumph, suspense, intrigue, patriotism, danger, fright, folly or fury.
Most films have between 40 and 120 minutes of music. However, some films have very little or no music; others may feature a score that plays almost continuously throughout. This is called source music because it comes from an on screen source that can actually be seen on screen this is called diegetic music.
This is use full to me because I now know that I can use slow music that helps build up tension with in the opening scene. However we need either a slower pace of music or an up beat quick pace to show the characters and allow the audience to see what they are like. Furthermore I have found music helps to explain the feelings, which is difficult to put across visually. Understanding this will help me choose appropriate music for my opening.
Soundtrack –
The term soundtrack is commonly referred to music used in movies; also we generally find there is an album sold coinciding with the film using the music featured in the film. The sound track of the opening to the film is to show tension, or mystery and even crime depending on the type of thriller the film is. At the end of the movie the credits are shown a song is used to give further interest this may be licensed beyond use in the film more importantly if it gets radio play it becomes a marketing tool. Songs associated with a film could be played on radio stations during the launch and release phases of the film to help spread a buzz to fans of the music and just people tune in.
However we also find that there are many different types of sound tracks not only the music-based type. There is a dialogue track, where the character speaking gets put into a soundtrack, sound effects track also where all the sound effects used get sectioned of into another sound track. And then finally a music track which is most commonly known with all the music used in the film in one soundtrack.
The sound track is not used as much in the opening of a thriller, however it is used in the duration of a film. It is helpful to know that all the types of sounds tracks get put into different categories. I can do the same with the opening of the thriller and use different types of sound tracks, then bringing them together to make the final product.
Style of Title –
Title sequence designs for films have evolved immensely over the years. Title sequences can range from bland black backgrounds with superimposed text over it to simply identify the film name or they could be wildly creative and fun. The truth of the matter is that a title sequence also speaks volumes about the movie itself before it begins. Title sequences can make or break movies, they are the first impressions of their own shows, not just a bland identification report.
This is use full as the title is the first thing generally that you will look at. We find many different types of titles, ranging from cartoon style titles, to brightly coloured ones to even black and white ones. This means that there are many different titles and it is also depends on it if it’s the style of film that you are producing. Eg for a thriller film I think I would need something a bit more simplistic but still gets the point of the film across and states the name of the film for the audience to see.
Likes –
I like a thriller because they use many different elements to draw the audience in. In a thriller we will find suspense leaving the audience on the edge of their seats not knowing what going to happen next. Also tension is used in the same way. Thrillers are always very exciting they use different features like music and a variety of sound effects to keep the audiences attention also making the films seem more real than other types of genres for example a comedy.
Dislike –
However if the main elements in a thriller are not used correctly the film can become very dull and obvious. This is the same for a thriller openings, where we are either able to see too much of the what the film is going to be like allowing us to work out the film and the elements it uses, if the music is not used correctly for example then the film will have no impact on the audience making the film seem boring and irrelevant.
Thriller
A thriller is a book or film, which is designed to keep the reader or viewer on edge with suspenseful using sensational action. Thrillers are also in radio, theater, and television. This genre related to Thrillers is incredibly large, generally overlapping with different genres, of example mysteries. Many people find thrillers very enjoyable; this is because they have a very complex plot that generally uses the entire film until you know what it is.
Several characteristics help to define a thriller. Thrillers typically involve sudden plot twists. This suspense can get almost unbearable, especially in a long piece or a television series. Thrillers also have a lot of action, which typically feature resourceful heroes and exotic settings.
Thriller can be scientific or medical in nature, forcing the protagonists to contend mysterious happenings. Some are simply straight mysteries with clever, horrific, or intriguing antagonists, while others be focused on the inner workings of the legal system, environmental threats, technology, or natural disasters. One long-established thriller genre is the spy thriller, featuring an often heroic and dashing spy who must confront whichever enemy happens to be popular at the moment.
These are types of films known to promote intense excitement, suspense, a high level of anticipation, ultra-heightened expectation, uncertainty, anxiety, and nerve-wracking tension. Thriller and suspense films are virtually synonymous and interchangeable categorizations, with similar characteristics and features.
If the genre is to be defined strictly, a genuine thriller is a film that rentlessly thrills and keeps the audience at the edge of their seats as the plot builds towards a climax. The tension usually arises when the main character is placed in a menacing situation, or an escape or dangerous mission from which escape seems impossible. Life itself is threatened, usually because the principal character is unsuspecting or unknowingly involved in a dangerous or potentially deadly situation. Plots of thrillers involve characters, which come into conflict with each other, or with outside forces - the menace is sometimes abstract or shadowy.
This means that there is a wide vary of features and codes that make up a thriller. This makes it easy to re crate a thriller using all the main features, but we need to make sure we keep the suspense in the opening of the film. Not giving away the rest of the film but also keeping the audience entertained enough to watch the film.
Several characteristics help to define a thriller. Thrillers typically involve sudden plot twists. This suspense can get almost unbearable, especially in a long piece or a television series. Thrillers also have a lot of action, which typically feature resourceful heroes and exotic settings.
Thriller can be scientific or medical in nature, forcing the protagonists to contend mysterious happenings. Some are simply straight mysteries with clever, horrific, or intriguing antagonists, while others be focused on the inner workings of the legal system, environmental threats, technology, or natural disasters. One long-established thriller genre is the spy thriller, featuring an often heroic and dashing spy who must confront whichever enemy happens to be popular at the moment.
These are types of films known to promote intense excitement, suspense, a high level of anticipation, ultra-heightened expectation, uncertainty, anxiety, and nerve-wracking tension. Thriller and suspense films are virtually synonymous and interchangeable categorizations, with similar characteristics and features.
If the genre is to be defined strictly, a genuine thriller is a film that rentlessly thrills and keeps the audience at the edge of their seats as the plot builds towards a climax. The tension usually arises when the main character is placed in a menacing situation, or an escape or dangerous mission from which escape seems impossible. Life itself is threatened, usually because the principal character is unsuspecting or unknowingly involved in a dangerous or potentially deadly situation. Plots of thrillers involve characters, which come into conflict with each other, or with outside forces - the menace is sometimes abstract or shadowy.
This means that there is a wide vary of features and codes that make up a thriller. This makes it easy to re crate a thriller using all the main features, but we need to make sure we keep the suspense in the opening of the film. Not giving away the rest of the film but also keeping the audience entertained enough to watch the film.
Genre
Genre is used for classification of media texts.
They are classified into similar group, this is done my similar characteristics.
Characteristics – Visual elements, Editing style, Actors, Props, Costumes, Lights, Music etc.
However there is a debate what genre actually is and how we actually use it.
The genre helps the audience establish what they are going to watch. Different genre’s appeal to different people, this is dues to there being no set elements as everyone has there own take of what a genre is. This is why it is debatable what is a genre.
– Action,
– Adventure,
– Comedy,
– Crime,
– Fantasy,
– Drama,
– Family,
– Horror,
– Mystery,
– Romance,
– Thriller
– Science Fiction,
These are just some of the genre’s that are used everyday in films.
This will help me as there is a wide range of genres available, I will be specifying on a Thriller Genre. But what I have found out that there is a lot more variety to the guidelines to a genre. This means that I can produce a thriller film opening, but it can be different and creative but still be recognized as a thriller.
But there are some problems, as Andre Bazin a French cinema critic believes that western films do not count as a genre. You will find many different looks and point of views on genres, sub genres and hybrids. There is nothing set, people will vary in how they interrupt them.
Hybridisation –
A hybrid of two or more genres. Put them together to make a new hybrid genre.
For example - Action and Comedy – Action Comedy, this is just an example of one of the new hybrid’s that you can watch today.
Hybridisation is very use full to me as I can use one of the hybrids of a thriller making a new type of thriller genre. This will make the opening on my thriller different and exciting hopefully keeping the audience entertained.
There is theory in hyridisation, Robert Altman believed that there was a relation between evolution and hybridization. He thought genre began with semantics and then slowly evolves into genre. But there are variables that affect this like shifting social thoughts. This means he thinks that a genre will always begin somewhere slowly evolving into other genres, In this case hybridization is just a form of genre branching out.
Sub Genre –
Sub genre for a film is a larger category from the main film genres, with their own distinctive subject matters, style, formula and iconography. We find that sub genre generally includes the less common film types, or the less liked film types. These are some of the sub genres –
– biopics,
– chick flicks,
– detective films,
– distater films,
– film noir,
– guy films,
– road films.
Sub genres are also very important, as it is a more specific type of genre, this means that I can have a sub genre of a thriller. for example Film Noir, it has all the codes that make up a thriller however some of its own these will come together to make different sub genres. Making sub genres different and exciting, but not to everyone’s taste this is why there is a large amount being very specific to certain audiences.
They are classified into similar group, this is done my similar characteristics.
Characteristics – Visual elements, Editing style, Actors, Props, Costumes, Lights, Music etc.
However there is a debate what genre actually is and how we actually use it.
The genre helps the audience establish what they are going to watch. Different genre’s appeal to different people, this is dues to there being no set elements as everyone has there own take of what a genre is. This is why it is debatable what is a genre.
– Action,
– Adventure,
– Comedy,
– Crime,
– Fantasy,
– Drama,
– Family,
– Horror,
– Mystery,
– Romance,
– Thriller
– Science Fiction,
These are just some of the genre’s that are used everyday in films.
This will help me as there is a wide range of genres available, I will be specifying on a Thriller Genre. But what I have found out that there is a lot more variety to the guidelines to a genre. This means that I can produce a thriller film opening, but it can be different and creative but still be recognized as a thriller.
But there are some problems, as Andre Bazin a French cinema critic believes that western films do not count as a genre. You will find many different looks and point of views on genres, sub genres and hybrids. There is nothing set, people will vary in how they interrupt them.
Hybridisation –
A hybrid of two or more genres. Put them together to make a new hybrid genre.
For example - Action and Comedy – Action Comedy, this is just an example of one of the new hybrid’s that you can watch today.
Hybridisation is very use full to me as I can use one of the hybrids of a thriller making a new type of thriller genre. This will make the opening on my thriller different and exciting hopefully keeping the audience entertained.
There is theory in hyridisation, Robert Altman believed that there was a relation between evolution and hybridization. He thought genre began with semantics and then slowly evolves into genre. But there are variables that affect this like shifting social thoughts. This means he thinks that a genre will always begin somewhere slowly evolving into other genres, In this case hybridization is just a form of genre branching out.
Sub Genre –
Sub genre for a film is a larger category from the main film genres, with their own distinctive subject matters, style, formula and iconography. We find that sub genre generally includes the less common film types, or the less liked film types. These are some of the sub genres –
– biopics,
– chick flicks,
– detective films,
– distater films,
– film noir,
– guy films,
– road films.
Sub genres are also very important, as it is a more specific type of genre, this means that I can have a sub genre of a thriller. for example Film Noir, it has all the codes that make up a thriller however some of its own these will come together to make different sub genres. Making sub genres different and exciting, but not to everyone’s taste this is why there is a large amount being very specific to certain audiences.
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