Monday 20 December 2010
Wednesday 15 December 2010
Tuesday 14 December 2010
Treatment
Lauren a 20 year old woman has been addicted to drugs ever since the age of 15, to a bad upbringing at childhood.She became pregnant at the age of 18 after being forced to have a sexual encounter with an older man who was blackmailing her because of her vulnerablilty.
At age of 20 she suffered the loss of her 2 year old daughter ho acidently drowned in the local park river, lauren at this time was still on drugs and blamed herself for not paying attention to her 2 year old who run out of sight without the assistance of her mother resulting her to falling into the river.
After ther death of her child she fell into deep depression and became more obsessive with taking drugs, she began to self harm herself and began to suffer from epileptic fits frequently.To help her condition she turned to rehab for help but after a number of attempts she gave up trying and went back to her old habit.
'This brings us to our opening sequence'
We see the silloouhette of lauren who has collapsed due to an overdose on drugs, she is clutching her arm which has been tied with a belt where she has been injecting herself.
On the table next to her lies all her late daughters toys that she has been reminisicng on, however in contrast to this next to the toys lies the lines of cocaine that she has been sniffing.
On the wall next to her hangs the pictures of her child made into a collage of rememberance.
At age of 20 she suffered the loss of her 2 year old daughter ho acidently drowned in the local park river, lauren at this time was still on drugs and blamed herself for not paying attention to her 2 year old who run out of sight without the assistance of her mother resulting her to falling into the river.
After ther death of her child she fell into deep depression and became more obsessive with taking drugs, she began to self harm herself and began to suffer from epileptic fits frequently.To help her condition she turned to rehab for help but after a number of attempts she gave up trying and went back to her old habit.
'This brings us to our opening sequence'
We see the silloouhette of lauren who has collapsed due to an overdose on drugs, she is clutching her arm which has been tied with a belt where she has been injecting herself.
On the table next to her lies all her late daughters toys that she has been reminisicng on, however in contrast to this next to the toys lies the lines of cocaine that she has been sniffing.
On the wall next to her hangs the pictures of her child made into a collage of rememberance.
The Script
Script (Forsaken)
Slug –Internal – Dingy Wharehouse – Late afternoon
Setting of scene: in a dark abandoned warehouse with broken bottle everywhere the place is in a total state, there is know one in the room, but someone has been living here because there’s photos, needles, cigarettes etc on a table.
Sound: We hear sinister music in the background, simmering gently raising in volume.
Camera Movement: There is a high angled pan from the top of the stairs; we see the back of a girl.
Camera Movement: The pan ends here. We get to a mid shot of her in front of a black door.
Sound: The music is slowly rising.
Camera Movement: There is then an over the shoulder shot of the back of girl and the door.
Camera Movement: There is a close up of the door handle and the girls hand is on it.
Camera movement: A mid shot of her opening, we then have an extra close up tilt and pan from previous shot. The shot will only reveal a small segment of her face.
Camera Movement: There is then a long shot the girl walking towards the table. Then the shot moves in to a mid shot.
Camera Movement: There is now a long shot of the table, moving into a mid shot, then we see the next shot of a close up from the girls point of view. (The tile will appear here.)
Camera movement: The actor takes something from the table and we see an over the shoulder shoot of her looking at her next destination the chair. We see a long shot of her and the shot. There is a mid shot her sitting on the chair.
Camera Movement: There is then a close up shot of a bracelet and syringe in her hand. The there is a close up with her bracelet on. Then we see an extreme close up a photo.
Sound: We hear voice over of a mother and daughter when we the picture.
Camera Movement: We see along shot of someone’s are and syringe, then a mid shot of another photo.
Sound: We hear voice over of a mother and daughter when we the picture.
Camera Movement: We see a close up an arm and syringe being inserted. We see another picture burning a close up shot.
Sound: We hear voice over of a mother and daughter when we the picture.
Camera Movement: We see a pan of all the objects on the table, and then we see a pan of the arm and the bracelet, pan ends. Then fade out.
Location Recce
Location Details | Possible Problems | Risk Assessments |
Our second location is also in a underground basement the place is slightly bigger than the first, and the good thing is that there are no chemicals within the premises. The place is very dirty. There is still no banister on the stair case. In the room there are lot of pipes on the ceiling and walls. The downfalls are that there are a lot of things on the tables on the floor and cabinets things such as chairs, monitors, and poles. | The possible problems were that there were a lot of chemicals which were open and not in practical areas such as the floor. Also in our film we need to light up a match and most of the chemicals were flammable which means there could be an explosion if we use the place. The stairs was red taped which means there is no banister to walk down to offer support. Also the room has to be accessible to members of the caretaker team. | Since there is no banister we will just have to be more careful when going down the stairs. As for the chemicals we will have to ask some of them to move the chemicals out the way for the day. Also we will have to ask the caretakers if they can pardon us for the day. This afternoon we were told we can not film in there due to health and safety. |
Our second location is also in a underground basement the place is slightly bigger than the first, and the good thing is that there are no chemicals within the premises. The place is very dirty. There is still no banister on the stair case. In the room there are lot of pipes on the ceiling and walls. The downfalls are that there are a lot of things on the tables on the floor and cabinets things such as chairs, monitors, and poles. | The possible problems are that there is not going to be enough space to film our film, also there is no banister on the satires which is health and safety, also there is a dance studio above the room so we could get distracted with music and the movement of the dancers. | To combat the sound of the dancers we are not going to use barely in sound only a few sound effects. We will just have to be careful going down the stairs and hope knows one has an accident. For space we will move things out the way and stack them properly to create valuable space. This afternoon we gathered news that we will be able to use the basement but we have to keep it quiet. |
Monday 13 December 2010
Textual Analysis
THE BASKETBALL DIARIES
Characters
In the main shots of this sequence, we establish that there is only one character that is of importance in this scene. This scene focuses mainly and purely on the effects of drugs that the character suffers and that he cannot overcome this temptation the drugs cause him. We also establish that the character is part of a basketball team, as other shots refer to the past of the character and his team mates. We see that although he is addicted to drugs, he has other commitments such as basketball, and studying as he is in his bedroom studying.
Costume
The character is dressed in an average t-shirt and jeans which shows that he is very casual and he doesn't stand out or become highlighted. However, he is the centre of attention as he is the only character in the scene and he is the only movement the audience is able to see. In the opening sequence I will be creating with my group, we will be able to use this idea of a casual, original look for a person.In the flashbacks, which are in Black and White, he is in his basketball uniform, which allows the audience to gain an understanding that he is in a basketball team and he has commitments, that the use of drugs can interfere with.
Setting
The scene is set in the characters bedroom. This allows the audience to see the character in the place where they are most comfortable and being themself, and also allows the audience to see the character at their most comfortable setting and place. When making my opening sequence, a good idea would be to set the opening sequence in a location that can be made rto look like somewhere where the character can simply be themself and their behaviour will be appropriate to that location, without hiding any particular emotion as the character will feel comfortable.
Props
We have learnt that the character is a student. Therefore, we see the character studying. We can gather this as we can see books, paper and study resources. We can also gather that this is his bedroom, as when he opens his cupboards, he throws out his clothes.
Messages
This scene sends out a message to young people showing them the effects that drugs have on people, and the craving, temptation and frustration the drugs cause. I aim to try to put across this message in my opening sequence, but hopefully in a stronger way, where the audience will be left feeling very effected.
Narrative
From this scene, we learn easily without any difficulty, that the narrative of this film is that the young boy is deeply affected by drugs and is very addicted to drugs, but he has other commitments such as fitness and basketball that he has to focus on. However, drugs will come inbetween this.
PERMANENT MIDNIGHT
Characters
In this scene, there are two characters, from what I can see, they are friends. They both have an interest in drugs and they are smoking weed. They are both effected by drugs negatively after smoking it, as they become very hyperactive and aggresive. This reaction of using drugs could be a good technique I can use in my opening sequence.
Costume
Similarly to 'Basketball Diaries', both characters are dressed casual, so the drug use seems very casual as well. This casual clothing will be used in my opening sequence as it will show that the character does not feel like taking drugs is a big thing, so that taking drugs will look very casual and part of the characters personality.
Setting
The scene is set in a building in America, but the room seems to be very domestic as there are no furniture appliances, only packaging etc. This is a good idea to use in my opening sequence as it seems that the characters have no other place to do drugs without others interfering. Also, at the end of the scene, the camera moves away from the building, making the characters look inferior, which could symbolise what drugs do to people as an effect.
Props
There are not many props used in this scene, there is a lighter used to light up the drugs, and the drug itself. This however highlights the significance of the drugs in the scene, showing the audience that the drugs is the only thing of importance in the scene. This shows the props in my opening sequence can send out a very important message, and so I will have to use extremely relevent props.
Messages
This scene shows the serious effects of drugs, the aggresiveness and how drugs are capable of making the characters feel superior and more powerful than anything else.
Narratives
The narrative of this scene is easily established as we learn that this film will be strictly about the way drugs are handled by others in the film.
REQUIM FOR A DREAM - PRESCRIPTION ABUSE
Characters
There is only one character in this scene and this is the old lady who doesn't realise that she is abusing her prescription. This character is constantly retaking her medication one after one, thinking that it isnt effected her, when really, its making her much more ill. The character portrays this by acting anxious, and her facial expressions constantly change, from happy/excited to anxious and confused. When making my opening sequence, character expressions and body language will be very important to be able to portray the effect of drugs effectively.
Costume
Once again, like the rest of the scenes I have analysed, the costume is very casual relating to the way the drugs are taken very casually.
Setting
The setting in this scene is in the old ladies living room, showing and emphasising the fact that she hasnt realised that she is overdosing on her presciption. The room is very dark and the only light that is seen is the light from her TV emphasising that she is alone. This dark setting will be used for my opening sequence as it highlights the loneliness of the character taking drugs.
Props
There is general household furniture in the living room, but the sofa chair that the old lady is sitting on is based right in the centre of the living room emphasising her loneliness. Also the telephone is highlighted as it is a main prop. The drug is a very important prop in this scene as it is made to be very important by the different camera shots used to highlight its important (the close up shot of the pill in the old ladies hand). The quick camera shots emphasis the tension and importance of the drug.
Messages
The message being put across is that drugs can be very dangerous and their effects can be hazardous. This message will definitely have to be one of the main messages in my opening sequence as it is an important message that needs to be sent to young people of todays society.
Narrative
This scene shows that the rest of the film will be relating to drug use and the effects and consequences of using drugs. The narrative will also be the same for my opening sequence.
Characters
In the main shots of this sequence, we establish that there is only one character that is of importance in this scene. This scene focuses mainly and purely on the effects of drugs that the character suffers and that he cannot overcome this temptation the drugs cause him. We also establish that the character is part of a basketball team, as other shots refer to the past of the character and his team mates. We see that although he is addicted to drugs, he has other commitments such as basketball, and studying as he is in his bedroom studying.
Costume
The character is dressed in an average t-shirt and jeans which shows that he is very casual and he doesn't stand out or become highlighted. However, he is the centre of attention as he is the only character in the scene and he is the only movement the audience is able to see. In the opening sequence I will be creating with my group, we will be able to use this idea of a casual, original look for a person.In the flashbacks, which are in Black and White, he is in his basketball uniform, which allows the audience to gain an understanding that he is in a basketball team and he has commitments, that the use of drugs can interfere with.
Setting
The scene is set in the characters bedroom. This allows the audience to see the character in the place where they are most comfortable and being themself, and also allows the audience to see the character at their most comfortable setting and place. When making my opening sequence, a good idea would be to set the opening sequence in a location that can be made rto look like somewhere where the character can simply be themself and their behaviour will be appropriate to that location, without hiding any particular emotion as the character will feel comfortable.
Props
We have learnt that the character is a student. Therefore, we see the character studying. We can gather this as we can see books, paper and study resources. We can also gather that this is his bedroom, as when he opens his cupboards, he throws out his clothes.
Messages
This scene sends out a message to young people showing them the effects that drugs have on people, and the craving, temptation and frustration the drugs cause. I aim to try to put across this message in my opening sequence, but hopefully in a stronger way, where the audience will be left feeling very effected.
Narrative
From this scene, we learn easily without any difficulty, that the narrative of this film is that the young boy is deeply affected by drugs and is very addicted to drugs, but he has other commitments such as fitness and basketball that he has to focus on. However, drugs will come inbetween this.
PERMANENT MIDNIGHT
Characters
In this scene, there are two characters, from what I can see, they are friends. They both have an interest in drugs and they are smoking weed. They are both effected by drugs negatively after smoking it, as they become very hyperactive and aggresive. This reaction of using drugs could be a good technique I can use in my opening sequence.
Costume
Similarly to 'Basketball Diaries', both characters are dressed casual, so the drug use seems very casual as well. This casual clothing will be used in my opening sequence as it will show that the character does not feel like taking drugs is a big thing, so that taking drugs will look very casual and part of the characters personality.
Setting
The scene is set in a building in America, but the room seems to be very domestic as there are no furniture appliances, only packaging etc. This is a good idea to use in my opening sequence as it seems that the characters have no other place to do drugs without others interfering. Also, at the end of the scene, the camera moves away from the building, making the characters look inferior, which could symbolise what drugs do to people as an effect.
Props
There are not many props used in this scene, there is a lighter used to light up the drugs, and the drug itself. This however highlights the significance of the drugs in the scene, showing the audience that the drugs is the only thing of importance in the scene. This shows the props in my opening sequence can send out a very important message, and so I will have to use extremely relevent props.
Messages
This scene shows the serious effects of drugs, the aggresiveness and how drugs are capable of making the characters feel superior and more powerful than anything else.
Narratives
The narrative of this scene is easily established as we learn that this film will be strictly about the way drugs are handled by others in the film.
REQUIM FOR A DREAM - PRESCRIPTION ABUSE
Characters
There is only one character in this scene and this is the old lady who doesn't realise that she is abusing her prescription. This character is constantly retaking her medication one after one, thinking that it isnt effected her, when really, its making her much more ill. The character portrays this by acting anxious, and her facial expressions constantly change, from happy/excited to anxious and confused. When making my opening sequence, character expressions and body language will be very important to be able to portray the effect of drugs effectively.
Costume
Once again, like the rest of the scenes I have analysed, the costume is very casual relating to the way the drugs are taken very casually.
Setting
The setting in this scene is in the old ladies living room, showing and emphasising the fact that she hasnt realised that she is overdosing on her presciption. The room is very dark and the only light that is seen is the light from her TV emphasising that she is alone. This dark setting will be used for my opening sequence as it highlights the loneliness of the character taking drugs.
Props
There is general household furniture in the living room, but the sofa chair that the old lady is sitting on is based right in the centre of the living room emphasising her loneliness. Also the telephone is highlighted as it is a main prop. The drug is a very important prop in this scene as it is made to be very important by the different camera shots used to highlight its important (the close up shot of the pill in the old ladies hand). The quick camera shots emphasis the tension and importance of the drug.
Messages
The message being put across is that drugs can be very dangerous and their effects can be hazardous. This message will definitely have to be one of the main messages in my opening sequence as it is an important message that needs to be sent to young people of todays society.
Narrative
This scene shows that the rest of the film will be relating to drug use and the effects and consequences of using drugs. The narrative will also be the same for my opening sequence.
Music
REQUIEM FOR A DREAM - SOUNDTRACK
This soundtrack for the drug related film 'Requiem For A Dream' has a very slow tempo, however it gradually builds up with the use of strings. This build up is successful in portraying the drug use in the film, as the build up can symbolise the effect of drugs slowly effecting the characters. When choosing music for my opening sequence, this I think strings can give the opening sequence a good touch, as it is strong. Also, I think this slow tempo makes the suspense last longer.
The Basketball Diaries - SOUNDTRACK
The Rock genre of music has always stereotypically been associated with drugs, sex and alcohol. This music doesn't fail in showing this, which is why it is such a perfect soundtrack to use for a drug related film. When making my opening sequence, I will take into consideration of maybe using some rock related sounds as it links with the depression that drugs bring.
PULP FICTION - SOUNDTRACK
The soundtrack used in 'Pulp Fiction' is a very jazzy tune. This music symbolises the effect of the drug when it makes the receiving person feel powerful and on top of the world. When making my opening sequence, I will take this into account as it could work well. However, for a depressing drug scene, this music will not be successful.
SCARFACE - SOUNDTRACK
The 'Scarface' soundtrack is very famous and it easily noticed anywhere and everywhere. Partially due to the very unique slow beat that it has, which can resemble the slow graduated feeling that the drugs bring. When using music in my opening sequence, slow music seems to be the better option, with the use of strings, like this soundtrack shows.
This soundtrack for the drug related film 'Requiem For A Dream' has a very slow tempo, however it gradually builds up with the use of strings. This build up is successful in portraying the drug use in the film, as the build up can symbolise the effect of drugs slowly effecting the characters. When choosing music for my opening sequence, this I think strings can give the opening sequence a good touch, as it is strong. Also, I think this slow tempo makes the suspense last longer.
The Basketball Diaries - SOUNDTRACK
The Rock genre of music has always stereotypically been associated with drugs, sex and alcohol. This music doesn't fail in showing this, which is why it is such a perfect soundtrack to use for a drug related film. When making my opening sequence, I will take into consideration of maybe using some rock related sounds as it links with the depression that drugs bring.
PULP FICTION - SOUNDTRACK
The soundtrack used in 'Pulp Fiction' is a very jazzy tune. This music symbolises the effect of the drug when it makes the receiving person feel powerful and on top of the world. When making my opening sequence, I will take this into account as it could work well. However, for a depressing drug scene, this music will not be successful.
SCARFACE - SOUNDTRACK
The 'Scarface' soundtrack is very famous and it easily noticed anywhere and everywhere. Partially due to the very unique slow beat that it has, which can resemble the slow graduated feeling that the drugs bring. When using music in my opening sequence, slow music seems to be the better option, with the use of strings, like this soundtrack shows.
Titles
REQUIEM FOR A DREAM - TITLE SEQUENCE
The titles are kept on the screen for about 3-5 seconds so that the audience are able to read them without any problems. The images used are relevent to the film, for example, the characters shown in the opening sequence will be relevent to the film later on. The eye, which is significant to drugs as the eye can determining whether someone has taken drugs and is affected by drugs. This is a successful opening sequence as if is very sharp and instant and it puts the point across that the film will be about drugs. The colours used are also relevent as they are dark, and the red symbolises pain and torture, that the drugs can bring upon the characters.
DRUG STORE COWBOY
This is a very successful opening sequence. It presents the titles clearly in very clear font and colour. All the main titles are presented in the first 52seconds of the title sequence, showing the important of the rest of the sequence. The titles are clear and noticable and do not interfer with the rest of the title sequence. This title sequence shows some of the story that has happened and the voice over explains some of the characters relationship with other characters, making the audience clearer about what has happened and what is about to happen. This could be a good idea when making my opening sequence, I could introduce some of the story into the opening sequence rather than just titles with not much story shown.
THE WACKNESS
This opening sequence has a voice over of a character that talks about himself in the past. A clip is also shown of him in the past, where he's smoking a cigarette and travelling somewhere. The voice over tells the audience that he is a drug dealer, so this is verbally clear, however it isnt visibly clear. The titles are in small capitals and they are in white, positioned in different places of the frame where they are clear and easy to read. I will need to consider whether or not titles will be easy to read when I position them when making my opening sequence.
THE CLOCKWORK ORANGE
This opening sequence is certainly extremely unique. The production company, the director and the films name are all shown at the very beginning of the title sequence very clearly. The rest of the sequence is based on symbolism. The people in the room all positioned as furniture and decorations gives a sense of mystery. However, it isnt clear that this film will be about drugs. But the creative use of writing on the walls if a very good idea for a way to present titles in my opening sequence/title sequence. The voice over is effective as it gives the audience an insight of what the film could be about.
The titles are kept on the screen for about 3-5 seconds so that the audience are able to read them without any problems. The images used are relevent to the film, for example, the characters shown in the opening sequence will be relevent to the film later on. The eye, which is significant to drugs as the eye can determining whether someone has taken drugs and is affected by drugs. This is a successful opening sequence as if is very sharp and instant and it puts the point across that the film will be about drugs. The colours used are also relevent as they are dark, and the red symbolises pain and torture, that the drugs can bring upon the characters.
DRUG STORE COWBOY
This is a very successful opening sequence. It presents the titles clearly in very clear font and colour. All the main titles are presented in the first 52seconds of the title sequence, showing the important of the rest of the sequence. The titles are clear and noticable and do not interfer with the rest of the title sequence. This title sequence shows some of the story that has happened and the voice over explains some of the characters relationship with other characters, making the audience clearer about what has happened and what is about to happen. This could be a good idea when making my opening sequence, I could introduce some of the story into the opening sequence rather than just titles with not much story shown.
THE WACKNESS
This opening sequence has a voice over of a character that talks about himself in the past. A clip is also shown of him in the past, where he's smoking a cigarette and travelling somewhere. The voice over tells the audience that he is a drug dealer, so this is verbally clear, however it isnt visibly clear. The titles are in small capitals and they are in white, positioned in different places of the frame where they are clear and easy to read. I will need to consider whether or not titles will be easy to read when I position them when making my opening sequence.
THE CLOCKWORK ORANGE
This opening sequence is certainly extremely unique. The production company, the director and the films name are all shown at the very beginning of the title sequence very clearly. The rest of the sequence is based on symbolism. The people in the room all positioned as furniture and decorations gives a sense of mystery. However, it isnt clear that this film will be about drugs. But the creative use of writing on the walls if a very good idea for a way to present titles in my opening sequence/title sequence. The voice over is effective as it gives the audience an insight of what the film could be about.
Friday 12 November 2010
How Heroin Is Used In Other Films
Trainspotting - Heroin Scene - relevant from 0.50 - 2.20
This scene shows the use of heroin. From this scene I have learnt that heroin addicts use a thick chunky belt to tight around their upper arm and clench this with their teeth for extra strength to tighten it as much as possible for their vein to become more visible to inject.
The character injects the syringe into the vein in the middle of his arm, as soon as he injects himself, his reaction becomes very still and he looks fint and numb although the drug has effected him greatly. The symbolism of the way he feels by the floor closing up on him can be useful to use in my opening sequence as I could also portray this in very different ways.
Pulp Fiction
This scene has given me an insight on what is needed to make the use of heroin in my opening sequence very realistic and beleivable. From this opening sequence, I have learnt how heroin users use a spoon to burn the substance with a lighter and insert it in the syringe.
This scene also shows the assembly of the syringe which is very technical and this can be used in my opening sequence too.
This scene shows the use of heroin. From this scene I have learnt that heroin addicts use a thick chunky belt to tight around their upper arm and clench this with their teeth for extra strength to tighten it as much as possible for their vein to become more visible to inject.
The character injects the syringe into the vein in the middle of his arm, as soon as he injects himself, his reaction becomes very still and he looks fint and numb although the drug has effected him greatly. The symbolism of the way he feels by the floor closing up on him can be useful to use in my opening sequence as I could also portray this in very different ways.
Pulp Fiction
This scene has given me an insight on what is needed to make the use of heroin in my opening sequence very realistic and beleivable. From this opening sequence, I have learnt how heroin users use a spoon to burn the substance with a lighter and insert it in the syringe.
This scene also shows the assembly of the syringe which is very technical and this can be used in my opening sequence too.
Thursday 11 November 2010
Monday 8 November 2010
Thursday 4 November 2010
Learning from Other Films
The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air - Carlton Takes Speed
In this scene, Carlton has mistakingly taken speed whilst thinking that what he has taking was paracetamol.
The camera was used very cleverly in this scene. Whilst Carlton was taking the drugs without knowing, the camera shot was a midshot showing some of his body language, as well as his facial expressions and for the audience to see what he was doing with the drugs. This meant that audience could create their own meaning by what they have seen. When Will goes to see why Carltons name is being chanted, the camera follows him as if its another person at the event. This is a successful technique as the audience are able to see everything in this situation as if in a point of view from someone else at the event.
When Carlton was taking the drugs, he was in the hallway near the lockers. This shows the audience how the drugs being taken could be due to an influence of being young and stressed, although the character didn't know he was taking drugs, Will had them in his locker and there must be an influence upon him.
As soon as Carlton takes the drugs, the sound of the music becomes louder, perhaps being an effect upon the audience that the drugs make you more aware of things and more awake/alert. This is an effect that can make the audience feel as though they are in Carltons position or are experiencing drugs alongside Carlton. Carltons name was also being chanted by all his peers, which could be emphasising the fact that when you are taking drugs, your confidence increases, just like Carltons whilst he was dancing, and everyone praising him on this.
From this scene, the music is fast to emphasise Carltons behaviour after taking the drugs. This is a good technique as the audience are able to feel Carltons hyperactivity and mood and I think this is a good technique to use in my own opening sequence.
Scarface
In this scene, Tony Montana is inhaling cocaine.
The camera pans and while its panning we see the cocaine and alcohol in view before we see the characters face. This allows the audience to be able to see whats in view which means that the audience are able to work out what will be happening in the scene and that the character and the drugs and alcohol have a connection.
Everything in the frame is dull coloured, the chairs are black and brown, the walls are dark and the characters clothing is dark. However, the cocaine bags are white which makes it stand out more and the audiences attention is diverted straight to the drugs. This enables the audience to see and understand what the main issue of the scene is.
When the character is inhaling the cocaine, we hear the sound of him sniffing the cocaine which is very effective as we are able to hear it loudly and clearly and are able to feel how it has effected him as the sound distorts from when he pulls away from the drugs. This enables the audience to realise and understand the characters feelings towards the drugs. Throughout the sequence there is music played in the background and after the character has taken the drugs, the music speeds up and becomes louder to create tension and suspense.
Eastenders - Phil on Drugs
In this scene, Phil is high on drugs and is surrounded by drugs and Alcohol.
The camera shots used are most of the time panned to show the surrounding drugs and alcohol and to show the link between Phil and these drugs. Also, high angle shots are used on Phil so that he looks weak and vulnerable and the audience feel more dominant and powerful. However, when the camera is on Peggy, low angle shots are used, so that Peggy seems like the more dominant and powerful character compared to Phil. Many mid shots are used so that the audience are able to see the surroundings and atmosphere of the flat Phil is staying in.
This sequence is set down in a very dirty, run down flat that looks like it has been abandoned and Phil had found it to stay in desperately trying to find shelter while he was on drugs. This dirty, run down flat symbolises a person who takes drugs and shows how the person is feeling. This is an effective technique as the audience wont have to hear any dialogue in order to see and feel how drugs are effecting the character.
The colours and lighting are very dull which represent the way the drugs make the person feel. This is a good technique to use for drugs as it can show emotion and feeling caused by drugs without any dialogue needed.
When Peggy opens the door, there is a creaking sound, this shows the awkwardness between the two characters due to the drugs.
In this scene, the alcohol bottles are covered in foil and have some sort of paper coming out of it, perhaps to reserve the alcohol etc. Therefore I will take this into consideration when making my opening sequence.
In this scene, Carlton has mistakingly taken speed whilst thinking that what he has taking was paracetamol.
The camera was used very cleverly in this scene. Whilst Carlton was taking the drugs without knowing, the camera shot was a midshot showing some of his body language, as well as his facial expressions and for the audience to see what he was doing with the drugs. This meant that audience could create their own meaning by what they have seen. When Will goes to see why Carltons name is being chanted, the camera follows him as if its another person at the event. This is a successful technique as the audience are able to see everything in this situation as if in a point of view from someone else at the event.
When Carlton was taking the drugs, he was in the hallway near the lockers. This shows the audience how the drugs being taken could be due to an influence of being young and stressed, although the character didn't know he was taking drugs, Will had them in his locker and there must be an influence upon him.
As soon as Carlton takes the drugs, the sound of the music becomes louder, perhaps being an effect upon the audience that the drugs make you more aware of things and more awake/alert. This is an effect that can make the audience feel as though they are in Carltons position or are experiencing drugs alongside Carlton. Carltons name was also being chanted by all his peers, which could be emphasising the fact that when you are taking drugs, your confidence increases, just like Carltons whilst he was dancing, and everyone praising him on this.
From this scene, the music is fast to emphasise Carltons behaviour after taking the drugs. This is a good technique as the audience are able to feel Carltons hyperactivity and mood and I think this is a good technique to use in my own opening sequence.
Scarface
In this scene, Tony Montana is inhaling cocaine.
The camera pans and while its panning we see the cocaine and alcohol in view before we see the characters face. This allows the audience to be able to see whats in view which means that the audience are able to work out what will be happening in the scene and that the character and the drugs and alcohol have a connection.
Everything in the frame is dull coloured, the chairs are black and brown, the walls are dark and the characters clothing is dark. However, the cocaine bags are white which makes it stand out more and the audiences attention is diverted straight to the drugs. This enables the audience to see and understand what the main issue of the scene is.
When the character is inhaling the cocaine, we hear the sound of him sniffing the cocaine which is very effective as we are able to hear it loudly and clearly and are able to feel how it has effected him as the sound distorts from when he pulls away from the drugs. This enables the audience to realise and understand the characters feelings towards the drugs. Throughout the sequence there is music played in the background and after the character has taken the drugs, the music speeds up and becomes louder to create tension and suspense.
Eastenders - Phil on Drugs
In this scene, Phil is high on drugs and is surrounded by drugs and Alcohol.
The camera shots used are most of the time panned to show the surrounding drugs and alcohol and to show the link between Phil and these drugs. Also, high angle shots are used on Phil so that he looks weak and vulnerable and the audience feel more dominant and powerful. However, when the camera is on Peggy, low angle shots are used, so that Peggy seems like the more dominant and powerful character compared to Phil. Many mid shots are used so that the audience are able to see the surroundings and atmosphere of the flat Phil is staying in.
This sequence is set down in a very dirty, run down flat that looks like it has been abandoned and Phil had found it to stay in desperately trying to find shelter while he was on drugs. This dirty, run down flat symbolises a person who takes drugs and shows how the person is feeling. This is an effective technique as the audience wont have to hear any dialogue in order to see and feel how drugs are effecting the character.
The colours and lighting are very dull which represent the way the drugs make the person feel. This is a good technique to use for drugs as it can show emotion and feeling caused by drugs without any dialogue needed.
When Peggy opens the door, there is a creaking sound, this shows the awkwardness between the two characters due to the drugs.
In this scene, the alcohol bottles are covered in foil and have some sort of paper coming out of it, perhaps to reserve the alcohol etc. Therefore I will take this into consideration when making my opening sequence.
Tuesday 2 November 2010
Analysis of Opening Sequences
Clips for Analysis
THE AGE OF INNOCENCE
In this opening sequence, the director is aiming to engage the audience and give them a very subtle hint of what the film's narrative is about. The director does this by using music and sound. The music is very slow and the orchestra used is very heavy, with the sound of string based instruments, showing that this narrative will be quite strong and wont be suitable for children, which highlights how this opening sequence makes sure that the target audience is kept to. Also, there is an image of a flower blossoming into something beautiful, which could represent one of the main concepts of the narrative. On top of the flowering image, there is a faint script over it with information that the audience are not really able to read. This leaves the audience feeling confused and gives them a sense of mystery. This also leaves the audience asking themselves, what this information consists of, and what the blossoming plant is representing.
My favourite part of this clip is the music as it is really subtle and enjoyable and this technique really grasped my attention and has made me want to watch the rest of the movie. I also enjoyed the blossoming flower as it is very creative and can symbolise many meanings.
THE NAKED GUN
The directors aims of this sequence is to familiarise the audience with what will be happening in the film. I know this because we are suddenly brought in to the sequence with being in the point of view of the person in the film and the sudden rush and sounds of the police siren causes a very frustrated tone of the film where everything is going wrong. Being in the point of view of one of the characters, gives the audience the complete feeling of being part of the narrative and so they are left feeling very welcomed into the narrative and this also engages the audience into the opening sequence as they have now had their full attention focused into the sequence. This also leaves the audience wondering what has happened and whats going to happen, along with many questions such as why there was a police siren and what sort of trouble has happened. The directors aim is also to introduce the main characters and the title of the film. This is done with a bright white font centred in the middle of the frame which is fully noticable by the audience.
My favourite part of this clip is being in the point of view of one as the characters. This is because I felt as though I was part of the narrative and this is a positive effect on the audiences attention the audience being engaged in the narrative. Also, the siren created a very busy and tone and so the audience were all fully alert and are left wondering whats going to happen next.
PULP FICTION
The directors aims of this opening sequence is to introduce the main characters in this film and the title of this film. He does this strictly. This is because the background is plain black, and the title of the film 'Pulp Fiction' is in the middle of the frame throughout the opening sequence. The actors names are presented clearly over the title of the film in white so it stands out. The audience are left wondering and thinking as the opening sequence does not introduce any narrative, only the titles vital for the film. This creates an unknown feeling for the audience leaving them waiting for the next thing to happen because they are left anxious.
The audience are engaged as the actors names that are presented are all of well known fantastic actors and therefore the audience will want to see a film with them in it. Also, the layout of the frame is very clear and easy and the audience do not need to use any extra effort or work out anything to understand what will be happening next as their mind is relaxed.
My favourite part of this clip is how the 'Pulp Fiction' title appears on screen very slowly, as though it is slowly being introduced to the audience. This creates tension as the audience are kept waiting to see something exciting which build up their excitement.
THE AGE OF INNOCENCE
In this opening sequence, the director is aiming to engage the audience and give them a very subtle hint of what the film's narrative is about. The director does this by using music and sound. The music is very slow and the orchestra used is very heavy, with the sound of string based instruments, showing that this narrative will be quite strong and wont be suitable for children, which highlights how this opening sequence makes sure that the target audience is kept to. Also, there is an image of a flower blossoming into something beautiful, which could represent one of the main concepts of the narrative. On top of the flowering image, there is a faint script over it with information that the audience are not really able to read. This leaves the audience feeling confused and gives them a sense of mystery. This also leaves the audience asking themselves, what this information consists of, and what the blossoming plant is representing.
My favourite part of this clip is the music as it is really subtle and enjoyable and this technique really grasped my attention and has made me want to watch the rest of the movie. I also enjoyed the blossoming flower as it is very creative and can symbolise many meanings.
THE NAKED GUN
The directors aims of this sequence is to familiarise the audience with what will be happening in the film. I know this because we are suddenly brought in to the sequence with being in the point of view of the person in the film and the sudden rush and sounds of the police siren causes a very frustrated tone of the film where everything is going wrong. Being in the point of view of one of the characters, gives the audience the complete feeling of being part of the narrative and so they are left feeling very welcomed into the narrative and this also engages the audience into the opening sequence as they have now had their full attention focused into the sequence. This also leaves the audience wondering what has happened and whats going to happen, along with many questions such as why there was a police siren and what sort of trouble has happened. The directors aim is also to introduce the main characters and the title of the film. This is done with a bright white font centred in the middle of the frame which is fully noticable by the audience.
My favourite part of this clip is being in the point of view of one as the characters. This is because I felt as though I was part of the narrative and this is a positive effect on the audiences attention the audience being engaged in the narrative. Also, the siren created a very busy and tone and so the audience were all fully alert and are left wondering whats going to happen next.
PULP FICTION
The directors aims of this opening sequence is to introduce the main characters in this film and the title of this film. He does this strictly. This is because the background is plain black, and the title of the film 'Pulp Fiction' is in the middle of the frame throughout the opening sequence. The actors names are presented clearly over the title of the film in white so it stands out. The audience are left wondering and thinking as the opening sequence does not introduce any narrative, only the titles vital for the film. This creates an unknown feeling for the audience leaving them waiting for the next thing to happen because they are left anxious.
The audience are engaged as the actors names that are presented are all of well known fantastic actors and therefore the audience will want to see a film with them in it. Also, the layout of the frame is very clear and easy and the audience do not need to use any extra effort or work out anything to understand what will be happening next as their mind is relaxed.
My favourite part of this clip is how the 'Pulp Fiction' title appears on screen very slowly, as though it is slowly being introduced to the audience. This creates tension as the audience are kept waiting to see something exciting which build up their excitement.
Thursday 28 October 2010
Story Ideas
EXAMINATION STRESS
The opening sequence can be an opening of a film that focuses on the stress of students doing alevel examinations.
Characters:- one character would have to be used to show the stress thats caused by exams. the characters will have no dialogue, the judgement of stress will be purely judged by the body language of the character.
Props:- props that will need to be used in this opening sequence will be a pen, a made up examination paper so that we can have close up shots of the date of the exam etc. an examination table
Setting:- can be filmed in the main hall when there are no assemblies being held or no plans of any events being held in the main hall when we are due to film.
story:- a student who is sitting her alevel exams is stressed because she needs to get an overall AAA to get into university to do a degree in medicene. The university she wishes to go to does not accept students who retake exams and therefore she needs to get the grades first time round. The stress of her exams lead her to do things that are abnormal to her usual behaviour and get her into a bit of trouble in her education and at home with her family.
BULLYING
The opening sequence can be of a character running out of the hall and into the bathroom.
Music: sad, slow music that can symbolise the characters emotions without any dialogue being said by the character.
Story:- a student in school has come from a different country and speaks very little english. She has started this school and has suffered some verbal abuse and people making fun of her accent and how she dresses. This causes a lot of emotional stress which effects her lifestyle and the way she is at home as well as at school. She then starts to cut class and school and doesn't attend any lessons, and makes a friend over the internet and decides to meet up with them, which wasn't a sesnible decision.
PEER PRESSURE
The opening sequence can start of with a close up shot of a cigarette or a alcohol bottle of some sort.
Props:- a cigarette or a alcohol bottle
Character:- one character will be used but will not be shown properly in the opening sequence.
Setting:- in school, the opening sequence can be shot at the back of the field.
Story:- a student who has never had many 'cool' friends starts talking to the in crowd in school who think its a good look to smoke, drink and do drugs together. The student starts trying to impress the others by smoking and drinking which does seem to impress them. However it has a bad effect on that student as they start to suffer the horrid consequences.
The opening sequence can be an opening of a film that focuses on the stress of students doing alevel examinations.
Characters:- one character would have to be used to show the stress thats caused by exams. the characters will have no dialogue, the judgement of stress will be purely judged by the body language of the character.
Props:- props that will need to be used in this opening sequence will be a pen, a made up examination paper so that we can have close up shots of the date of the exam etc. an examination table
Setting:- can be filmed in the main hall when there are no assemblies being held or no plans of any events being held in the main hall when we are due to film.
story:- a student who is sitting her alevel exams is stressed because she needs to get an overall AAA to get into university to do a degree in medicene. The university she wishes to go to does not accept students who retake exams and therefore she needs to get the grades first time round. The stress of her exams lead her to do things that are abnormal to her usual behaviour and get her into a bit of trouble in her education and at home with her family.
BULLYING
The opening sequence can be of a character running out of the hall and into the bathroom.
Music: sad, slow music that can symbolise the characters emotions without any dialogue being said by the character.
Story:- a student in school has come from a different country and speaks very little english. She has started this school and has suffered some verbal abuse and people making fun of her accent and how she dresses. This causes a lot of emotional stress which effects her lifestyle and the way she is at home as well as at school. She then starts to cut class and school and doesn't attend any lessons, and makes a friend over the internet and decides to meet up with them, which wasn't a sesnible decision.
PEER PRESSURE
The opening sequence can start of with a close up shot of a cigarette or a alcohol bottle of some sort.
Props:- a cigarette or a alcohol bottle
Character:- one character will be used but will not be shown properly in the opening sequence.
Setting:- in school, the opening sequence can be shot at the back of the field.
Story:- a student who has never had many 'cool' friends starts talking to the in crowd in school who think its a good look to smoke, drink and do drugs together. The student starts trying to impress the others by smoking and drinking which does seem to impress them. However it has a bad effect on that student as they start to suffer the horrid consequences.
Wednesday 20 October 2010
Story Ideas Research 1
Chile's trapped miners are told rescue could take months
The countries health ministers have announced that the 33 minors trapped underground may not be rescues for several months. Therefore, a special programme has been set up to keep the men fit and healthy and the workers are being supplied with glucouse and rehydration tablets.
Wayne Rooney to leave Manchester United FC?
A few years ago, Tony Blaire gave a few tips to Sir Alex Ferguson on what to do if a fellow player steps out of line. Tony Blaire had said, if a good player starts 'causing problems' you should 'get rid of him'. Wayne Rooney will problem go to Manchester City or the manager can persuade him to stay.
Miners Story:
the point of view as minister who has advised everyone of the fact that the rescue will take several months and off all the stress and hassle he will have to deal with due to everyones complaints and issues.
Euromillions Story:
starting with a shot of the couple going to exchange their ticket to the head office of the lottery company. no dialogue, just the anxious music and sound playiny.
Wayne Rooney:
Sir Alex Fergusons point of view, suffering from the stress of maybe losing one of his best players. Thinking of new ways to persuade Rooney to stay at Manchester United FC without having to sacrifice to much.
 |
| rehydration and glucose tablets. |
The countries health ministers have announced that the 33 minors trapped underground may not be rescues for several months. Therefore, a special programme has been set up to keep the men fit and healthy and the workers are being supplied with glucouse and rehydration tablets.
Euromillions £113m ticket claimed
The winner has beat odds of more than 76 million to one
The winning numbers were 9, 30, 35, 39, 46, with lucky stars 6 and 8.Wayne Rooney to leave Manchester United FC?
Miners Story:
the point of view as minister who has advised everyone of the fact that the rescue will take several months and off all the stress and hassle he will have to deal with due to everyones complaints and issues.
Euromillions Story:
starting with a shot of the couple going to exchange their ticket to the head office of the lottery company. no dialogue, just the anxious music and sound playiny.
Wayne Rooney:
Sir Alex Fergusons point of view, suffering from the stress of maybe losing one of his best players. Thinking of new ways to persuade Rooney to stay at Manchester United FC without having to sacrifice to much.
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