Entry #16

March 25

Today we officially discussed our film noir films.  Below are my impressions of each film, including a self-evaluation, that are focused on the screenplays and writing since I was the writer of my group's film. This also includes Jeff's film, which was actually viewed in the class after this one, but I included it in this entry just for coherence. 

Natalia

My overall impression of the film is that it could have been much better. It started out well with a good monologue. It was very scant and blunt and was delivered well by Elliot. It set the mood very well. 

But it was the best part of the film. The rest was in a plateau lower than the opening 30 seconds. The setting for one seemed like someone's house, and the lighting did not have much contrast, it was just dim. 

The dialogue between the protagonist and the femme fatale wasn't really witty although the attempt and idea was there. The dialogue was dedicated to giving a background of the plot, but how could you solidify and establish the plot only through dialogue? It's a very difficult thing to do. I don't blame them for trying though. A film noir usually has a complex story line, and it's hard to squeeze it in a 5 minute production. But it felt cramped in and unsuccessfully established and developed, especially when trying to introduce his father's murder. We never find out who the femme fatale is, and will never know. The sense of moral ambiguity is unclear since the dialogue was too focused on the plot, and the banter fell flat.

Stratagem

It was hard to believe this was a film noir. There was an attempt to have quick, witty conversation but as soon as the lines

"I was under the impression you wanted me at 7:30. It's 7:20"

was heard, it just gave me a very bad impression on the dialogue. It seems like something comedic than something serious. The dialogue didn't get any better, neither did it get any worse.

The plot was so simple, too simple. I guess it could have worked, but the delivery was unsuccessful (staking out in a car, a plastic bag as the murder weapon, etc.). And the development of each character was non-existent. Each character was the same, even with the same intentions. 

There was also no effort in making high contrasting lights, and the music only added to the unintentional comedic effect the film exuded.

Pulse

Screenplay wise it was good. It was a romantic-centered piece with the protagonist having to choose between his girlfriend and a girl he was having an affair with. 

I think what this film did was that it relied on tricks and gimmicks. For example, when the femme fatale took off her underwear there was two separate shots that showed that. Sure it was edgy, especially for the classroom, but I felt it blatantly abused it, kind of like "we're the cool kids on the block" sort of thing. Though it did express the 'sinful' and 'temptation' aspects of the affair. But it could've been done perhaps more gracefully; with more style, and perhaps limit it to only one cut.

The first time I watched Pulse I didn't understand what happened in the end when the protagonist says to his girlfriend "don't wait up on me". I didn't understand it the second time, but it was just me. Apparently the protagonist was going to go with his secret lover. I thought it was just fine as an ending; it wasn't anything special, and it didn't really change my view on the film. Basically, I was affected the same amount when I didn't know the ending compared to after I found out what happened in the end. 

The dialogue was quite good though nothing special or memorable.

The tape recorder bit was, again, just fine. It was used in Michael Clayton, though I'm not sure if that was the inspiration. I didn't really like it in Michael Clayton, but I thought it was better used there. 

I think what made the script not as good as it should be was the presentation of it. I thought that the shot with Ella, or the protagonist's girlfriend, was so bright, colorful, and cheerful, that it disrupted the film's mood. I thought that either that shot should be cut out, or done in a darker tone, though the idea was there (contrast with his secret life). But why introduce a character for a 10 second shot? 

Also the lighting was too grainy and dark. There were some shadows but that was all. It was just dark most of the time.

Plunge

The screenplay, I felt, was more of a novel than a screenplay. Only people would pay attention and listen attentively to the dialogue can appreciate it and understand it fully. The thing is, there's a lot of long paragraphs and speeches from each character. The content was good but slowed the pace down dramatically. Also, there wasn't much action or anything a novel can't describe as well. 

The main criticism was that the film could have been a lot tighter; that it felt as if it was part of something larger. Apparently it was; it as an adaptation of a feature length film screenplay Jeff was working as a side project. The idea was great, then just wasn't adapted elegantly. But overall it was a good screenplay. 

The Broken Beautiful (self-evaluation)

I didn't receive much criticism for the screenplay. I was glad that some people gathered that it was inspired by Sin City and Moulin Rouge, which were the actual inspirations I used while writing the script; falling in love with a prostitute, and how futile it was. 

It was good because the story of this dark romance was intriguing. The pace was fast (or at least in check), and the dialogue was tight and interesting. Of course it could have been better, perhaps better dialogue, better lines, etc. Overall though I was pleased with it. 

I have to give a lot of credit to my group members, Bernice, Medora and Andy for putting a lot of effort in to understanding my screenplay and figuring out the best way to display it on screen, which they did very successfully. 

I was an IB learner: 

Communicator: Communicated my opinions and shared it with the rest of the class

Open-minded: Open to the comments toward my film as well as other interpretations of the other films. 

Entry #15

March 23

Today we discussed the script and Joyce's vision, as well as plan filming days. I read the script more thoroughly than last time. It's a bit confusing but after Joyce's explanation it became clearer. 

I can't really do much with the sound right now except predict or guess what the sounds or music will be. I'm sticking with the Chaplin theme but it may change as anything can happen. Today's session was more focused on the visuals and the staging of the film. 

There were a few modifications to the script. For one, instead of the Student going through the Teacher's legs to reach the door, the Student will push the teacher through the door so that both of them will go through the portal and teleport. 

That was essentially the only modification we came up today.

As for filming dates, we'll probably going to film this weekend (for all of the outer school locations) and probably Monday and Wednesday next week for all of the inner school scenes. Next class we will rehearse all of the inner school scenes.  

Entry #14

March 18

Bugs Bunny

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WM5Gwzk3Vfc

Charlie Chaplin

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxCuXGCR8TE

The two videos above are the best examples when music is most effective. They coincide with the actions of the actors and produce a very comedic, funny effect. It is one of Bugs Bunny's trademarks as well as Charlie Chaplin's; utilizing music to for the best comedic effect.

How am I going to incorporate it into a chase scene, I have no idea. How am I going to compose something like that, I have no idea. I have some experience in music, and with garageband. I spent two semesters in Computer Music in Year 9, where I learned how to use Garageband as well as Logic Pro. But that was a long time ago.

Today I re-familiarized myself with Garageband. I read the script Joyce wrote and it seems good, at least for a Chase Scene. She's very organized with the script, naming all the characters as well as the places. We need to go scouting soon. 

While Elliot, Joyce and Justin were discussing the script, I was playing around with Garageband and see what I can do. For the first few minutes I was just playing around. I developed one quite catchy melody but I'm afraid that it would become more annoying that memorable. I then made another melody in case for an intimidating scene, perhaps when the Teacher spots the student. I made two of them; one for that exact moment, and one for the ensuing chase.

Not really confident in the pieces I made, I played around with the native loops of Garageband. I combined two loops and made a rock instrumental. I showed it to the rest of my group and they said I should continue working on the catchy melodies rather than turning the music into a rock theme.

I then created a melody that's very happy and light-hearted. It's incredibly happy. It'll be great for the scene with Daniel yelling at the student in Cantonese (contrast). 

The reality is though I can't really create the most appropriate music for the film until after filming and I can get a sense, and know when and what music to provide. What I did today in class was familiarize myself with music software, and create potential pieces for the film. I will continue watching Chaplin and Bugs. Even after this project of course.

I was an IB Learner:

Communicator: Talked with group mates about music pieces.

Thinkers: Thought on how to maximize the use of music and sounds into a Chase scene.

RIsk-Taker: Not the most experienced, best person in composing songs, but still am trying to compose original music.

Reflective: Concerned about the potential annoyance some melodies might cause. 

Film Noir Evaluation

March 18 

1) How your idea came about and your contribution to this, in terms of Screenwriting.

 

            The idea for this film noir project was influenced by many stories and movies. First here is a summary of the story. The protagonist, Man, is walking on the streets until he meets a Woman. They converse and he learns that she is a prostitute. They talk about the morality, and whether a drunkard is higher than a prostitute, or visa versa. The Man then expresses love for the prostitute, but she dismisses it as something conjured up by alcohol. The Man then tells the prostitute that he had a previous experience with one. He says that the woman he slept with was named Daisies. The Woman pulls a gun and aims it towards him. Apparently Daises’ name was Jennifer, and she was her sister, which the Man murdered. The Man, knowing that he is going to die, simply tells the Woman that he did love her and because of his own flaw of getting drunk, killed her sister. The Woman ignores any sympathy. She kills him. The final shot, the Man is lying, dying. But his final sight is his love, Daisies, lying next to him, as dead as he is.

            Within the script I also used flashbacks to give the storyline more depth without disrupting the flow and coherence of the film. It also makes the film extend to something other than what is currently happening; another dimension if you will.

            The title of the film was based on a line written in the middle of the script. For a while it was untitled. It was only after I finished writing it did I come up with the title.

            The two main inspirations were Moulin Rouge and Sin City. Moulin Rouge gave me the idea of falling in love with a prostitute, and how dark, yet romantic it could be. Sin City gave me the idea for the ending. The story, “the Hard Goodbye” with Marv and Goldie ends with both of them lying dead together in the same bed, in this case, it was the Man and Daisies. Goldie is, coincidentally, a prostitute, and Marv does fall in love with her. Those two films gave me the idea for the story.

            There were other influences that helped me write lines. Songs by Radiohead helped me. “Paranoid Android”, with the lines “Rain down/Rain down/ Come on rain down on me/From a great height/From a great height” gave me the lines “I felt rain coming down on my face but everything was clear” in the script. It is used as an omen for what is coming next; his death. The song “Reckoner” also by Radiohead helped me. The song is about destiny and how unfortunate but inevitable it can be. The lines “Reckoner/Dare not speak its name/Dedicated to all human beings” helped me develop the fate of these three characters, as if death and murder is inevitable. Also, its haunting melody helped me create the atmosphere of the script.  

            I wanted to use Nancy Sinatra’s song “Bang, Bang” but because of copyright, could not use it. I tried incorporating music into the script by using the line  “I hear a guitar weeping”, but we could not use the song and so I changed it to “I hear her (Daisies) weeping”.

            I also took advice from Quentin Tarintino. In an interview, he says that in watching a movie, if he does not understand what is going on, he immediately stops watching, because what is the point of watching something you do not understand, and, it would be impossible to appreciate it. It told me to keep the story clear, elegant, and coherent, especially for a short film.

My group members also did not like the line “Tease”. The Woman says it. It’s a response to the Man’s line “Ten thousand dollars for one night, you’re right, I can’t afford it.” So I removed it.

            Aside from that the script was convenient in the sense that it allowed our cameraperson envision each scene clearly. The atmosphere of the script allows the cameraperson to create the frame perfect for each line. Also, the plot is very organized, which facilitate the Editor’s job.

            Again with the atmosphere, it facilitates the Sound Director’s job to find songs that fit the mood, as well as allow creativity; using sound as dramatic devices such as reverberating footsteps as the Woman leaves the scene.

            This was how my idea was conceived and how it contributed to the project.

 

2) How did you plan as a group and your contribution to pre-production?

           

            We planned what to film first and what to film last. We decided to film the meeting between the Man and the Woman first, the Flashbacks next, then the Walking Scenes last. The conversation was the main bulk of the script. The Flashbacks were shorter, but still important. It had an interior setting, which was the main reason why we chose to film it on a separate day. The walking scenes were filmed on a separately day because we also though it would be ideal to film any reshoot since we were out filming. We were confident that we would not make a mistake because walking scenes were simple to do.

            During classes I worked with Andy and Medora – the actors – to develop their character. I felt that even though acting was not the priority, bad acting could distract the audience from the point of the movie as well as the cinematic elements to it. I did everything I could for Andy and Medora understand their character, and develop their own nuances and subtleties so that it would seem natural on screen.

            The advice I gave them were sometimes specific, at other times ambiguous. The intent is to have them create the character on their own perception; my job was just to nurture that perception. At times, when they were rehearsing their lines, I would say “darker”, “sadder”, etc., ambiguous lines like that because I did not want them to think to much and confuse them. I also did not want to say the lines because I did not want them to do an imitation of me. Other times, I would give them a whole background of the character, but again, not going into the habit and tell them how I would do it. This again led to naturalistic performances.

            I followed the advice of

3) What was your contribution during the actual production stage?

 

            During filming, I was basically the consultant and co-director with the Cameraperson. If the actor had trouble knowing a line, I would tell them since I know the script inside out. Also sometimes the Cameraperson would not understand the point of the scene, so I would explain what the mood should be and what the frame should express, which is usually the character’s mentality. And because while writing it I had a vision of what each scene looked like, I also would be the safety net. The Cameraperson would tell me a potential idea and I would explain why it would or would not work. And if the Cameraperson were having trouble developing the shot, I would be of assistance. In short, I would be the safety net and the problem solver of the group.

 

4) How did you work as a group I the post-production? What was your contribution to this?

 

            During post-production, I was mainly helping the Editor. I would tell him the shots that need to be used to coincide with the script, and the shots that are unnecessary. Similar to the production stage, I was the safety net, but instead of the Cameraperson, it was for the Editor. If the Editor missed something or cut something out by accident, I would usually be the first person to notice. I was there to ensure that the plot was expressed. Also, the Editor dealt with the color of the film. I had to make sure that he did not mitigate any atmosphere or did not express the character’s emotions effectively.

            Similar with the Sound Director, I was there to make sure that the songs and sound effects were appropriate. There were two sounds we had trouble with; a gunshot and the Flashback effect. The gunshots we found seemed too fake, and eventually had to edit it ourselves by decreasing the reverberation and making it higher pitched as well as a shorter length. For the Flashback sound, it was a ‘whoosh’, and each sound we found seemed too fake as well. Eventually we found an appropriate one, but decreased the volume so that it was not too obvious.

            In short, I was the safety net, making sure that the ideas by each group member would benefit the film without ruining its substance and meaning the script provides.

5) Evaluation of the final product. How successful were you in achieving your goal? How did you perform your designated role? How did you work together as group? What feedback did you receive as a group and as an individual? How can you improve, both as a group and as an individual?

 

            The final product was successful. It was coherent, effective in expressing the character’s emotions, and expressed the themes of the moral dilemma of loving a prostitute effectively. The film received praise from our peers and teacher so we knew that it turned out well, with the quote from Ms Wong “it set the bar high”.

            In terms of my role, I thought I performed well. The class immediately after the class we began, I already wrote a draft, which, aside from a few cut lines, was the one we used. My group all thought that the script was great and very film noir-esque. The script allowed imagination flow through my group mates, which made their jobs easier. It also provided tasks for each role, so that no one would be left out and everyone would have something to do.

            Some people outside my group read my script and had no complaints. They understood the plot and agreed it exemplified the film noir style.

            I did not receive any criticisms with the script and I have asked people. Although the script may not need any improvements, I may need to improve as a screenwriter. Perhaps I can write an even better one with a different, better, more developed story without having to rely on flashbacks, as well as wittier dialogue with more memorable lines. 

            As a group, we could have been more efficient during the production stages. For each filming session we took literally hours. We ended up tired and exhausted, but still determined to finish what we planned to finish, even though it went into overtime. We should have been more realistic in planning out our time and schedule. But our commitment to the project is what made our final product what it is; the Broken Beautiful.

Entry #13

March 16

Today we just went straight to our next unit. We will discuss the film noir project next class.

Our next project is creating a short film inspired by Twilight Zone. It is a chase scene. 

My group members are Justin, Joyce and Elliot.

Justin: Editor

Joyce: Writer

Elliot: Cameraperson

Me: Sound Director.

We ended up using my idea of a teacher chasing a student who has a device that allows him to transport wherever he wants to, but in the midst of chasing, the device malfunctions and either takes him places he doesn't want to be or only places a few meters away from his original destination. It will be difficult but effective if done properly.

I want it to be something like a Charlie Chaplin film, though more high-tec. I want the atmosphere of it. Also, I want to use the old school text, though it may not work. It depends what script Joyce produced.

We came up with a lot of potential scenes, like the student ending up in a bedroom where two lovers are making out. And the student ending up in family dinner with the father yelling at him. And a Scooby Doo-like scenario, where one person enters a room but exits another. There will probably be a fugitive-like scene where the student is on the ledge of a cliff with the teacher cornering him. And then he jumps but teleports in mid air. 

As sound director I will probably think of a theme song to compose. I'll probably do something light hearted and catchy, like a Super Mario game. I'll probably use Garageband since I'm most familiar with that software. 

I was an IB learner:

Caring: Showed empathy, compassion, and respect towards the needs and feelings of others.

Open-minded: Listened to my peer's ideas.

Communicator: Expressed own ideas.

Entry #12

March 11

Today is screening day.

We didn't do much editing, just included the credits. 

Andy adjusted the saturation but left a tinge of color to create the film noir effect but without abusing it. Adding some color is, we find, more effective, especially with the audience we are dealing with. But that was how he achieved the effect shown in our film.

He also managed to imitate Sin City's style, which uses red as the sole color. It involves isolating the color from the rest, and therefore desaturating other colors while leaving the red there.

He managed to finish all of the editing.

For music we used Kevin Mcleod pieces. Our beginning theme is called 'Turn for the Worse". In the middle we used another song by him; a delicate piano. It worked for our film uncannily well. 

For the ending went ahead and used Christie's vocals. Medora also included a guitar introduction so that Andy's death is more dramatic. 

Our film was screen first and these were my thoughts on it:

-it wasn't like how it was on Quicktime with our computer. I thought that the one that was screened was missing some bits, and made the ending too rushed, and missed out on the final line which has Andy saying "Daisies". I was a bit disappointed with that. 

-it was 7 minutes, but felt like 2 minutes. That's a good sign.

-Music helped us greatly

-captivating visuals coincided with the dialogue greatly

-fast paced but without skipping any background information. Simple, allowed the audience to understand it.

Our film had a good reception, Ms Wong saying that ours set the bar high. I was greatly relieved that people enjoyed our film, and was well received. 

Here are my thoughts on the other films in terms of the screenplay (since it relates to my roll):

Elliot's group:

-Clever, succinct dialogue. The first person voice over was effective. The sexuality element was, I felt, abused, especially when Elliot ran his hand across Ashley's bare leg. Also, I didn't buy that the gestures Ashley did was sensual. I also thought that the story of the death of Elliot's dad was very underdeveloped. And we never know how Ashley knows about it so well. It's a scene of something much larger instead of a short film. Story line should have been tighter.

Adrian's group:

Liked the introduction, using the First Person narration effectively. Liked the simplicity of the story: Femme fatale vs Protagonist and Girlfriend. The dialogue was great; clever, witty, and effective. The phone bit was the best, where the sounds of the ringing was intimidating (his girlfriend calling). But what happened in the end? No conclusion, or at least one the audience can understand. I asked Andy what happened, but he also does not know. 

I also felt that the screenplay used so many ideas but did not consider the difficulty in putting so many ideas on screen. It should have been tighter, more focused and would have been elegantly portrayed. It could have been a much better film.

Joyce's group:

Dialogue is cumbersome, i.e. "I was under the impression you wanted me to be here at 7:30. It's 7:20." Is that supposed to be witty? It sure was memorable. 

The story line is overly simple; guy and femme fatale teaming up against girlfriend. Nothing really happens in the plot. The guy and femme fatale meets up and kills the girlfriend, though before, the girlfriend was supposed to team up with the femme fatale and kill the guy. One or two events occurred.

No character uniqueness at all. Each character was the same; same expression, same intent, same dialogue, same everything. 

The waiting scene was unnecessary and definitely not film noir, more of a comedy.

Using a plastic bag to kill someone? A plastic bag from a supermarket? Really?

The plot and dialogue should have been more sophisticated. The intent was there but was not successful.

Jeff's Group:

Very vivid in expressing the theme of moral ambiguity. Story line is simple and well executed. It was much more dialogue driven than plot. No femme fatale, but wasn't the point. There was the 'home' girlfriend, but is overshadowed by the frustration of the protagonist. Even though it sets up as something apocalyptic (I think it was something unnecessary, because it does seem like part of something much larger instead of a short film), it seems more like a love story even though it doesn't include the girl at all. 

The immense and philosophical dialogue was great and did capture attention though at some points it did drag on. When Julien shot Chris (their characters), that was the best part, and was evident that it was the climax. I thought maybe it was too Quentin Tarintino with the dialogue. It seemed repetitive at points, but was still interesting nevertheless. 

It would have worked without the post-apocalyptic setting, though it did set the mood very well. 

I was an IB leaner:

Reflective: Gave thoughtful consideration to my own learning and experience. Reflected on each group's film as well as my own. 

Communicator: Expressed my opinions and queries to peers.

Entry #11

March 9

On Friday the reshots and filming were much smoother since we already knew what to do with the scene, and the walking scenes were very straightforward since it was only Andy walking. We use lights from cars that passed by since it created a cool, film noirish effect. 

We also played around with some scenes, like the church scene. It is a scene where Andy walks by a Church, looks at it, and it seems the Church is condemning him or judging him, but he doesn't care and continues walking. We probably won't end up using it because it disrupts the script and it's unnecessary.

We also used a bottle, where the car lights would go through it and create a somewhat kaleidoscopic effect. It's really cool, needless to say.

The final thing we shot was Medora stalking Andy. But what I was thinking, to make it more elegant, was that instead of showing Medora walking behind Andy, it is just different angles of Medora that portrays her looking, monitoring Andy as he walks. It is simple and effective if done properly, that may also express her inner pain. 

The final product is due Wednesday. 

*Side note

After school day, Andy continued to edit. After 90 minutes of solid editing, he tells me that he is nearly done. He not only has it all organized, but has most of it in the correct saturation. He is confident that he can meet the deadline, and just needs about 2 more hours of solid editing. I will be there tomorrow for the final major edits.

I was an IB learner: 

Inquirer: Developing natural curiosity. I explored and experimented with different film ideas and techniques to produce effective story telling.

Communicator: Expressed ideas.

Risk-takers: Experimentation of shots and angles. 

Entry #10

March 4

Andy continued editing. He's been editing nonstop, which I appreciate.

He pointed out some problems such as the boom shadow in one scene. That was basically the only scene we had to reshoot. 

Andy is still organizing the clips. I would occasionally help him when he needs consultation, like deciding which clip to choose from, or if we should move the frame a little up or down. 

We are going to film the rest of the shots on Thursday unless the weather is unfriendly, which in this case, we will film on Friday, no matter what.

I was an IB learner today:

Communicator: Expressed ideas.

Entry #9

March 2

We finished filming, aside from potential reshoots and other filming. We shot in the alleyway by Ventris Road and Broadwood Road in Happy Valley on Friday, and shot in Bernice/Medora's house. 

Medora, Bernice, and Andy were all great. They wore the make up, costumes, and sacrificed their own comfort to contribute to the film. I felt very tyrannical at some points so I had to keep a low profile and speak when needed.

We planned the whole schedule beforehand of course. I would bring all of the equipment to my house, which included the dolly, HD camera, Boom/Boom handle, and stand. We didn't really use the stand or the dolly since they were more of a hindrance than a practical tool. The camera wasn't too shaky, and if it was, we simply reshot. 

All of us would eventually meet at my house and revise the plan. Then we'd bring all of the equipment to the location; a 2 minute walk. 

We had some problems with the costumes. I thought Andy dressed very nicely at first, so I made him change his belt. We experiment with a few shirts but ended up going with the original one. We also ditched the tie because it looked too forced upon when Andy wore it. We also ditched the black jacket, but he still would hold it otherwise there would be too much white. 

For Medora I told her to bring a light colored scarf. She told us that she was going to wear a black dress, which is nice but seemed too funeral like. She is after all playing a prostitute. She ended up bringing a green scarf, which looks fantastic. 

We filmed and encountered few, minor problems such as the boom getting in the way, or not getting the camera movement timed properly. 

We decided to film the alley scene first and the walking scenes some other day next week. 

When we were in Bernice/Medora's house, it was Bernice acting. She wore something different, still black, but with a black cardigan and more eyeliner. Her hair was also curly/curlier. On Saturday we filmed all of the flashback scenes, which involved Bernice. We had to make it surreal so we played around a lot with lighting and even used a fan to get the heavenly effect with her hair. 

While filming, Andy said that there was a hole in the script; why does he kill Bernice? I improvised with ideas and came up that Bernice stole his wallet, and during a struggle, Bernice pulls out her gun but Andy grabs it from her and shoots her. It's plausible and makes sense. 

Obviously there were some problems while shooting the flashbacks. We could not film Andy and Medora physically touching lips, so we used their shadow. The important part isn't the physicalness, but the intimacy; how could we express their intimacy, and prove that he was in love with her to the audience? 

I think that we portrayed that but it comes down to editing.

I already uploaded all of the clips into my computer and downloaded into my hard drive so we saved time. We had troubles with Final Cut Pro because the setting between my and the school's computer were different. But eventually we sorted it out, so we didn't have to render.

Today we couldn't get much done since Andy needs to delete all of the flawed bits, which would take a while. He would also need to organize the timeline to have the film in the order it was in the script. 

Next time on filming day I would try to keep track of the time more strictly. On both days we filmed an hour later than we wanted. We should be more efficient in filming. But our commitment and desire to produce a quality film was what helped us get through.

While the files were being transferred to the computer (it was 3 GB, so it took 20 minutes), we finished the Voice Overs. It went very smoothly. We used a practice room. Medora captured the voice and it was clear. She compiled it with garageband. 

I was an IB learner because: 

Inquirer: While filming we improvised with shots. I found myself giving suggestions such as 'closer angles' or 'lower angles' to Bernice; shots that made the frame more interesting. And because for most of us this was a new experience, we learned a lot in how to capture a cool shot and how to make each frame effective.

Knowledgeable: Explored concepts, ideas. Acquired in-depth knowledge and understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.

Thinkers: Exercised initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively. I applied techniques I learned from film class as well as from shots from movies I have seen. I also was a follower of the Rule of Thirds. I found that very effective. 

Communicators: Said my ideas even though in some cases, was not my responsibility (I am not the cameraperson).

Open-Minded: Did not control the whole set. Let Bernice be the cameraperson she is. 

Risk-Takers: Experimented with costumes. 

Entry #8

Feb 25

Today we looked over the possible locations we will use for the film. Andy and I scouted for locations. We looked for alleyways in Happy Valley. We chose Happy Valley for practicality reasons; there were many alleyways, and since I live there, we can put all of the equipment at my home to ensure that we don't lose anything, and at least have a convenient rendezvous. 

There were many possible locations, but the general flaws with most of them was that there were too many passerby, or lighting was insufficient, or we did not have enough room to move the camera and get the shots we want in certain angles.

But there was one that, as a general consensus, deemed best. It is by Ventris Road and Broadwood Road. It is an alleyway behind a school. It is long with two lights on both ends. Since low key lighting is used for Film Noir, and a single light source, we thought we were very lucky in finding this location. And since it is behind a school, it would be empty. And there was enough room too. 

Today was mainly acting out the scene with Andy and Medora while Bernice continued working on the storyboard. It was the same dynamic; Andy and Medora would act it out, occasionally I would stop them if something was off. The main thing I should help them with is understanding the character, and eventually they will get it right. We are filming this Friday, so it gives them a few days to prepare. 

Most of the time I'm repeating one word phrases. For Andy, I'd say "darker" or "slower" or "more frustrated", etc. For Medora, it would usually be (vulgarly said) "sexier" or "deeper" or, again, "darker". Unless I have to be I avoid being specific. It's because I don't want to make them think too much, after all, the acting part of the film is not the greatest importance. But like I said before, the acting may distract the audience from the cinematic experience, which is why I'm very picky. 

I also want them to actually think like actors. I don't want to be too specific so that they can use their own imagination and ideas in the character. It also would result in a more natural performance, which is the best thing that could happen.

But there are some cases where I have to be very clear on their expressions and tone. Subtleties and nuances can make the difference. For example, for Andy, I tell him to experiment with sighing as that is an effective dramatic effect, as well as some pauses in his first person narrative. I also give both actors the possible history and background of their characters. For example, Andy's character, I tell him, is sad and frustrated at the world and he's trying not to care, but he is constantly reminded by what he has done years ago. For Medora, she is trying to not lose her cool and kill Andy immediately, but at the same time, part of her falls for him a little, and she is conflicted with fighting this temptation; a murderer or a lover?

I feel that Andy and Medora do understand their characters at the end of today's session. All they need to do is memorize their lines for Friday. 

*Side Note

For the main theme of the film we went ahead and used Greensleeves with vocals provided by Christie Chan. Greensleeves was written in the 15th century before copyright laws applied, therefore we were allowed to use its melody. Christie's voice has the timbre and crispness that benefits the film very well. Credits to our sound director, Medora.

Today I was an IB learner because: 

Thinker: Exercised initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize complex problems, and make reasoned decisions. I demonstrated that through giving Andy and Medora acting notes. 

Caring: Showed empathy and compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. I was not overly critical in coaching Andy and Medora.

Communicator: Understood and expressed ideas and information confidently and creatively. I worked willingly and in collaboration with others while helping Andy and Medora. I expressed my ideas clearly when needed while leaving room for their own ideas and imagination.

Entry #7

Feb 23

To help storyboarding, we took photos of possible shots. They can are shown in the photos section of this blog.

Bernice has the right idea in the sense that she's experimenting with angles and is more interested in the aesthetics of the frame rather than the realism of the movie. I don't believe Film Noir is a realistic genre, it is a caricature of the dark side of human nature. 

I also rehearsed with Medora and Andy with their lines. From experience and seeing previous student work, the acting can make the difference, because audiences (our classmates and friends) don't really pay attention to the camerawork or the theatrical elements because they are distracted by the acting on how poorly it is. I am not expecting great, professional acting, just acting that blends in with the frame, and acting that does not distract the intent of the movie.

For Andy I know that he can't get the same 1930s voice, but his voice is low enough. He just needs to get the personality and aura correct.

I forgot to mention this in my previous entry that I wrote the parts specifically for Medora and Andy so that they can blend into the character easier. Andy is generally an introverted person, so I wrote quite a lot of voice overs and short lines for him. For footnotes, I told him what the history of the character would be if he existed; always depressed then he accidentally murdered a prostitute he fell in love with, and he has been hiding, trying to avoid reality all the while. 

For Medora, I simply told her to have a lot of sex appeal. In the film she plays a prostitute, and later we find out that she is the sister of the Andy's victim. I tried to make her enigmatic, but at the same time, Andy manages to penetrate into her heart. I wanted her to watch the first scene in Sin City and try to imitate the actress. 

For Andy I told him to watch Robert De Niro clips in Taxi Driver. It's because in that film, Robert De Niro's character is expressive, but only to himself. It's exactly how Andy's character should feel. 

I took what Ms Wong said to me about how I should be uncompromising in having the actors get into their character. Although it does seem very totalitarian and undemocratic, it's probably necessary to get some decent acting.

IB Learner Profile:

Communicator: Discussed actors with their character's emotions and state of mind.

Open minded: Let actors improvise and add their own creative touch to the characters

Caring: I know that I'm not dealing with professional actors or even drama students, so I considered that their acting would not be superb. 

Thinkers: Exercised initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems and make reasoned, ethical decisions. 

Balanced: Understood the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve person well-being for myself and others.

Entry #6

Feb 18

I wrote the first draft of the script. Each of my group members read it and liked it. 

While I was writing the script I kept in mind the characteristics of film noir and its plot. I also kept in mind that I am writing for the cameraperson, sound director and editor. I ensured that each scene had a clear intent, but also left room for each person to add his/her own ideas and vision. However, I paid close attention to the dialogue since that is the most evident showing of my contribution through the film. It was difficult merging witty, memorable lines in a dark movie, but I managed. I was influenced by Sin City, LA Confidential, Waiter (Ober), and Fight Club as they all seemed to have dark comedy elements. 

I also wanted to avoid cliche and corny lines. I try to surprise the audience with it rather than making the memorable lines predictable. 

Bernice is working on the storyboard while Medora is looking for possible music to be used. 

Bernice was also playing around with the HD Camera, reading the manual to make sure that during filming she is familiar in how to use the camera, and that we can minimize any technical problems we may encounter.

IB Learner Profile:

Communicator: Talked to group mates on my script and how they wanted to approach project.

Open-mindedness: Accepted any criticism or praise.

Reflective: Considered my script and wondered if there can be any improvements.

Balanced: In writing the script, I thought of the physical, skill level, and emotional balance to achieve not only a personal well being of others, but also their motivation to be involved in the project.

Entry #5

Feb 16

Today we learned about Film Noir.

-French for 'black film'

-peaked between 1944-55

-originated from detective / femme fatale novels by Dashiell Hammett, Raymond CHandler, James Cain

-Themes: lost of moral certainty, cynical characters, reaction to current events

-Protagonist: unconventional hero; average, barely adequate, akin to a detective, loner, introverted, troubled, hard-boiled, pessimistic,

-Antagonist: femme fatale, seduces hero, deceiving 

-The Good Woman: contrasts femme-fatale; associated with home, nurturing

-Characteristics: hero is on quest, things are not what they seem, people change identities, frequent plot twists, first person voice over

-Noir World

-External: Dark, mean streets of the big city, interior settings: night clubs, cafes, police stations, underworld

-Internal: psychology of character's mind

Cinematography: hard look, like a tabloid newspaper, claustrophobic interior restricted by camera frame, night scenes, low key lighting, Chiaroscuro effect, experimental dutch angle and deep focus shots, bleak tones, grotesque, caricatured objects

-Iconography: telephones, voice recorders, newspapers, dark sidewalks, rain-drenched streetse, neon lights, carnivals, city as villain, casino/border of town, water/alcohol motif

-Plot

-Set Up: protagonist moral views, disagrees with status quo, manages to maintain integrity

-Conflict: drawn to situation by ambiguous motives, acts according to experience but without knowing everything, his flaws emerges through moral self-discovery in situations

-Resolution: Recognize defeat, defeat occurs due to character flaw

-Neo-noir: DIrty Harry, Blade Runner, Fatal Attraction, LA Confidential

With this in mind we split up into groups of 4 and briefly planned our Film Noir Assessment.

In this project each person will be assigned a role: Writer, Cameraperson, Sound Director, Editor. 

Cameraperson: Bernice

Sound Director: Medora

Editor: Andy

Writer: Myself

The first step was the writing portion, so I will have to write up a draft by next class. 

IB learner Profile:

Inquirer: Wondered what Film NOir is all about.

Knowledgeable: Explore concepts, ideas, and issues that have local and global significance; understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.

Risk-Taker: Volunteered to be writer.

Caring: Considered what others wanted to do.

Entry #4

Feb 11

With the same groups as before, Raphael, Chris and Andy, we did another task. First we looked at the film Memento and analyzed it. We focused on how many cuts there were to a five minute scene, as well as the types of cuts there were. We did this to learn about editing techniques, more specifically, continuity editing, which will be integral to our next project.

Why Continuity?

-create coherence and helps spectator orientation.

-Way shots are edited must permit the viewer to piece them together like a puzzle

-Techniques of continuity editing enable the viewer to create a continuous picture from the shots presented on screen

Continuity Editing: Key Techniques

-observing 180 degree rule

-the Eye line match

-POV cutting

-Match on Action Cut

-Directional Continuity 

-Establishing shot

-Cross-Cutting

-Transitions

-Rhythm

I think the most basic techniques are the 180 degree rule, Eye line match, and establishing shots. The most difficult to do are Match on Action shot, Cross Cutting, Transitions, and Rhythm, but can be effective if done properly.

Why Edit?

-Gives director complete control over events and actors

-GIves viewer optimal access to unfolding events

-Helps prolong suspense

-Allows more involvement in action rather than the character's psychology or performance

-Eliminates unnecessary time and space

Our task was to film a very short script using the editing techniques.

We first decided to film a conversation. But because the location we chose was limited, and the conversation did not have much meaning or context, we decided to film a basketball one on one game. A sports film can also exemplify if the editing is good or not since a lot of action and movement is involved in it.

IB learner profile:

Inquirer: Curious of new knowledge

Thinker: How apply new knowledge

Communicators: Talked with group members about flaws in our choices, discussed issues.

Caring: Considered opinions of my group mates

Risk-Taker: Experimented with different scenarios.