Preliminary Task 2 - Evaluation
- 1. Mina Margo Spasic AS Level Media Studies Video Continuity Task Evaluation
- 2. Introduction - In this evaluation of the preliminary task I will critically decompose a video sequence produced by my partner and I. We got more familiar with technical elements of filming such as continuity techniques, camera movements and image framing. - I’ve conducted research on the 180-degree rule, shot/reverse shot and math on action. I have done this in order to get a clear understanding of the basis of filming and to be able to carry out an accurate plan for our sequence. - My partner and I have developed a relatively simple storyline after having brainstormed possible ideas and have split up the tasks of the film production equally among us. These tasks include pre-production, post-production and filming itself. - Our secondary research has been carried out in order for us to get a proper understanding of the technique elements that we would need to incorporate in our story. We have found simple definitions and examples of already existing footage of other students, along with certain film sequences that contain and demonstrate the three previously mentioned technique elements. These film sequences were; ➢ “The Shawshank Redemption” - (1994) ➢ “Good Will Hunting” - (1997) ➢ “Leon: The Professional” (1994)
- 3. Pre-production Stage - After coming up with initial ideas, my teammate and I have discussed the positives and negatives of each idea. We decided to to choose the “Reunited” storyline to be the one we would further develop as it had the highest amount of advantages and the least amount of disadvantages. It was the most original idea we had that was possible to carry out as the location and the actors necessary were accessible to us. There was no need to ask for any type of specific permission to film and it was relatively easy to film. - Once that we selected our final idea, both of us had begun the pre-production stage. During this stage of video continuity production we each had our own individual tasks., although we were always involved with each other’s tasks. - I was in charge of constructing the storyboard according to the script that my partner was in charge of, however I had input in it as well. - Once I had completed the initial storyboard, after discussion I realised that there were some elements that I have not fully incorporated so I had to make some final changes to it.
- 4. - Once we were both satisfied with the overall script and the storyboard, we moved on to the second stage of pre-production in which we carried out location research, assembled the cast and the crew, prepared the filming equipment and lastly created the shooting schedule. - We had some difficulties in finding the cast. Due to this we have decided that one of us would act as the lead character as she was the owner of the dog which made filming with it easier as the dog would naturally have a friendlier response to her rather than an unknown person. - As we were short on time, I took charge of the location search meanwhile my partner dealt with the actors and preparing her dog for the filming.
- 5. Production Stage - In the production stage we also had several issues with continuity. As the filming process was longer than planned, weather changes can be seen in the video sequence. - Additional problems were that people were passing by and were curious as to what we were doing and made continuous interruptions. - The extras in the film sequence also didn’t take the task very seriously and therefore we were forced to do many retakes. - In addition, we also faced problems with adjusting the camera, as well as an issue with the lens focus.
- 6. - First shot: we decided to use tracking, hand-held shot in order to create a sense of movement which makes the audience feel more involved, like they are following the character. - Second shot: Here we used a long shot, We used it to establish the environment of the action. Props that were included in the shot were a cart and a supermarket store logo (MAXI) that both helped establish the place.
- 7. - In the following scenes, we included match on action to create a sense of continuity. As well as shot/reverse shot and the 180-degree rule in order to better portray the interaction between characters.
- 8. - We also used different image framing techniques, some of them being: Medium Long Shot (MLS) Two Shot (2S) Over The Shoulder Shot (OTS) Close Up (CU)
- 9. - Then we experimented with different camera angles in an attempt to develop the emotions of the characters on the screen. Angles included are the low angle and the eye-level angle. Low angle Eye-level angle
- 10. Conclusion If I were do do this project once again, there is a number of things I would do differently. These things being: - Making sure that all the scenes have good focus. - Reduce all the continuity faults (some mistakes we made included the position of the leash changing, change of time (some scenes were in the daylight, others were taken after sunset), movement of previously parked cars. Overall, this exercise enabled me to learn more about continuity techniques such as the 180-degree rule, math on action and shot/reverse shot, as well as establishing an eye-line match. I gained useful experience thanks to this exercise. I am now able to recognise and apply these techniques to my work.