Many comedy trailers use a less serious soundtrack as the true plot is revealed, conveying the characters or plot line more appropriately. Some might use “dumb” music, while others just use mainstream chart music, if the film is aimed at a large audience, due to its mainstream genre.
However, although I consider my trailer as a main stream comedy, I did not choose to use comparable music. Instead, like I stated before, chose to use music that would be more suited in an action film.
Comedy trailers also use a large amount of speech, which helps to convey the characters personality and situation. It also helps the directors include a larger amount of characters, who might be played by recognised actors. Therefore used as a marketing tool selling the film in a different way to it just being entertaining.
However, not much speech is used in my trailer. I thought that showing the audience physical aspects of the main character is funnier than having many different people speak. The structure of the trailer makes it clear that the main character is being bullied and is training to confront them. Therefore not much speech is needed.
Thursday, 7 January 2010
Trailer Conventions I Followed
In many comedy trailers, the opening starts like a more dramatic film would. This seriousness and epic feel gives a humorous anticlimax when a very unimpressive character is revealed. This part of the trailer usually has dramatic music, use of black fades and a deep voice over speaking about a very dramatic but unclear happening (for example “This summer, something will happen”).
My trailer follows this convention very closely. The voice over of “When a boy gets pushed too far, he becomes a man” gives, like many trailer voiceovers, a very vague or misleading description of the plot. The dramatic music I used also follows the convention, as does my slow fade into the actual start of the shots. As well as this, the garage door that slowly opens up dramatically reveals the character and we see that a not so heroic nerd has been revealed. The zoom into his face gives a greater sense of anticlimax by showing how humorous his facial appearance is.
After the anticlimax many trailers would create an even further juxtaposition by having a cut to something very physical that is happening to the main character.
My trailer also follows this, as a montage of shots showing the two bullies kicking the geeks in the groin and their reaction shots. The montage itself is also a regular convention in comedy trailers, as they are used to emphasise repetition.
As a trailer ends, the still image of the film name shows the film certification and other information. In many trailers, not just comedy, a brief shot is shown afterwards. It is effective as the film trailer ends on a more exciting tone, which is much harder to achieve with just an image.
My trailer ends with the close up of Chris saying “Give it your best shot” in a very threatening and challenging way. This closes the film with a very humorous ending but also leaves the outcome over the confrontation open, making the viewer more interested in seeing it. I also think that it challenges the viewer, making it seem the threat is also directed at them, as well as the bullies.
As well as comedy trailer conventions, I looked at some action film trailers. Their conventions were things like a montage of action packed shots, with the characters speaking briefly to each other. Also, they use energetic music and the beat is sometimes timed with the actual actions in the filmSimilarly, my trailer does the same. The shots of Chris working out and punching the bag are timed with the beat of my song, “Club Foot”. This gives the trailer the effect of that its trying to be serious however the main character just isn’t, and creates a sort of oxymoron or contrast.
Finally, in many trailers I have seen, there is a shot of the character speaking. The voice then goes over the other clips whilst the actual shot stops. Usually the following shots are of the same context as the speech.
My trailer follows this when Chris is speaking in the mirror to himself, saying, “I’ve been picked on for too long, revenge is a dish best served cold”. The voice overlaps the clips of him working out. Here is the video below.
My trailer follows this convention very closely. The voice over of “When a boy gets pushed too far, he becomes a man” gives, like many trailer voiceovers, a very vague or misleading description of the plot. The dramatic music I used also follows the convention, as does my slow fade into the actual start of the shots. As well as this, the garage door that slowly opens up dramatically reveals the character and we see that a not so heroic nerd has been revealed. The zoom into his face gives a greater sense of anticlimax by showing how humorous his facial appearance is.
After the anticlimax many trailers would create an even further juxtaposition by having a cut to something very physical that is happening to the main character.
My trailer also follows this, as a montage of shots showing the two bullies kicking the geeks in the groin and their reaction shots. The montage itself is also a regular convention in comedy trailers, as they are used to emphasise repetition.
As a trailer ends, the still image of the film name shows the film certification and other information. In many trailers, not just comedy, a brief shot is shown afterwards. It is effective as the film trailer ends on a more exciting tone, which is much harder to achieve with just an image.
My trailer ends with the close up of Chris saying “Give it your best shot” in a very threatening and challenging way. This closes the film with a very humorous ending but also leaves the outcome over the confrontation open, making the viewer more interested in seeing it. I also think that it challenges the viewer, making it seem the threat is also directed at them, as well as the bullies.
As well as comedy trailer conventions, I looked at some action film trailers. Their conventions were things like a montage of action packed shots, with the characters speaking briefly to each other. Also, they use energetic music and the beat is sometimes timed with the actual actions in the filmSimilarly, my trailer does the same. The shots of Chris working out and punching the bag are timed with the beat of my song, “Club Foot”. This gives the trailer the effect of that its trying to be serious however the main character just isn’t, and creates a sort of oxymoron or contrast.
Finally, in many trailers I have seen, there is a shot of the character speaking. The voice then goes over the other clips whilst the actual shot stops. Usually the following shots are of the same context as the speech.
My trailer follows this when Chris is speaking in the mirror to himself, saying, “I’ve been picked on for too long, revenge is a dish best served cold”. The voice overlaps the clips of him working out. Here is the video below.
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
Summary of how my trailer relates to the three comedy subgenres
Despite the fact I have divided some of the shots into the different subgenres, it is clear that a lot of the time all three different subgenres can be applied to a shot. For example, the shot of Chris above on the punchbag. This has physical comedy, as well as character comedy – because its part of his ridiculous personality, and cringe comedy – because some viewers may feel embarrassed for him.
How Does My Trailer Relate To Physical Comedy
My trailer follows many aspects of physical comedy. Especially most of the first shots of the nerds being beaten up, as they involve them getting kicked in the groin which is always funny. As well as this, shots such as Chris on the Wii or working out can be classed as physical comedy. Mainly because the actual movements are humorous, as well as the cringe and character aspects. 
This shot is a typical piece of physical comedy. Mainly because it is Chris getting kicked in the groin.
This shot where he is struggling to curl the dumbbell and eventually goes to drop it. The sound effect used shows he has caused some sort of damage as he’s dropped it.
This is physical comedy because apart from his facial expression, which comes under both character and cringe comedy, the slow motion action to the song beat is very humorous
How Does My Trailer Relate To Cringe Comedy
My trailer does not support aspects of Cringe Comedy very heavily. However, the main aim of a cringe comedy is that it makes the viewer embarrassed for the character, due to the ignorance of his or her stupidity or ridiculousness, or physical happenings to them. A good example of this is where Glen’s character says “So what you gonna do about those boys”. The way he delivers the line in such a camp tone of voice is quite cringe worthy to watch. However, although I feel that I haven't used lots of cringe comedy, some people could argue that the whole film should be classed as cringe comedy. Solely because the main character embarrasses himself so much throughout the film subconsciously, by being such an absurd nerd who thinks that they can retaliate to bullies by working out and practicing boxing on the Wii.
Watching him confront the bullies shouting “Halt! Leave my friend alone” is also slightly cringe worthy as the viewer feels embarrassed for him.
This shot is a good example of cringe comedy. Although I used a similar shot for character comedy I feel that the actual character is sometimes slightly cringe worthy to watch, especially watching him pose his muscles with a satisfied grin on his face.
Watching him confront the bullies shouting “Halt! Leave my friend alone” is also slightly cringe worthy as the viewer feels embarrassed for him.
Like the other two shots, the viewer feels embarrassed for the actual character, and what he is doing.
How Does My Trailer Relate To Character Comedy
The main character in my trailer, played by Chris Craske, is arguably the funniest feature and the most important in terms of making the audience laugh. Therefore I would have to say that Character Comedy is the most important sub-genre I have used in my trailer. As well as Chris, Glen Russling’s character is pretty comically appealing to the audience. However, this is probably due to his appearance, as the trailer does not characterize him as much as Chris. A good example of character comedy in my trailer is at the end where Chris says “Give it your best shot”. Despite the aggressive way he delivers it the viewer sees that the line is no where near as intimidating as he intends it to be. This shows how naive the character is and the audience just can’t help but to laugh at him.
This is another good example of a shot based on character comedy. The main comedic factor of this shot is the way he replies to Glen with his expressions as well as the way the character delivers the line “I’m gonna get those boys”.
The main aspect of character comedy in this shot is the way he marches up to the shocked bullies, confronting them with the challenging threat of “would one like a piece of me”.
This shot of the character flexing his “muscles” in the mirror with a proud expression is an example of character comedy. Mainly because the shot says so much about him that he portrays himself very humorously.
This is another good example of a shot based on character comedy. The main comedic factor of this shot is the way he replies to Glen with his expressions as well as the way the character delivers the line “I’m gonna get those boys”.
The main aspect of character comedy in this shot is the way he marches up to the shocked bullies, confronting them with the challenging threat of “would one like a piece of me”.
Monday, 4 January 2010
Using Pinnacle
To edit the actual trailer, I chose to use Pinnacle because it was the most available software to me that is of a professional standard. The programme helped me cut the footage, put it in order, add effects such as slow motion, add fades, sounds and so much more.
What I learnt from using this software
1. I learnt how to change the noise level of sound into the most appropriate level, this was very useful throughout the film, especially when Glen speaks, as it needed to be louder over the music.
2. I learnt how to shorten clips with ease to help make the trailer stay with 1 minute, which was especially helpful during the working out scenes.
3. I learnt how to actually upload my recorded clips onto the computer so they can be edited
4. I learnt how to add music and time it so the beat plays at exactly the same time as the clips, such as when Chris punching the boxing bag
5. I learnt how to separate the actual sound of a clip from the video, this helped me drag Chris’ voice over the shots of him working out
6. I learnt how to reduce the noise of wind
from a shot by using the “Wind Reduction”
tool, which made the trailer sound much.
What I learnt from using this software
1. I learnt how to change the noise level of sound into the most appropriate level, this was very useful throughout the film, especially when Glen speaks, as it needed to be louder over the music.
2. I learnt how to shorten clips with ease to help make the trailer stay with 1 minute, which was especially helpful during the working out scenes.
3. I learnt how to actually upload my recorded clips onto the computer so they can be edited
4. I learnt how to add music and time it so the beat plays at exactly the same time as the clips, such as when Chris punching the boxing bag
5. I learnt how to separate the actual sound of a clip from the video, this helped me drag Chris’ voice over the shots of him working out
6. I learnt how to reduce the noise of wind
from a shot by using the “Wind Reduction”
tool, which made the trailer sound much.
Using Photoshop
To produce my ancillary tasks, I used the image editing software of Adobe Photoshop as this was the best one available to me, and I have used it before on many different projects. This programme helped me cut the objects I wanted out of taken photos (the ones of Chris) and place them onto the image created solely from Photoshop. The text and effects were also made in Photoshop. The images such as the smoke and brick wall were taken form Google images.
What I learnt from my experience using photoshop
Using the programme this time for a project made me realise a few things about it, for example:
1.I learnt how to edit out pixalated images by using a paint brush tool with a blur effect to blend in with the background
2.I learnt how to change the colour tone of an image. For example I made the brick wall darker by changing the darkness of the image
3. I learnt how to quickly and easily change the canvas size without causing any changes to the pixilation of the image
What I learnt from my experience using photoshop
Using the programme this time for a project made me realise a few things about it, for example:
1.I learnt how to edit out pixalated images by using a paint brush tool with a blur effect to blend in with the background
2.I learnt how to change the colour tone of an image. For example I made the brick wall darker by changing the darkness of the image
3. I learnt how to quickly and easily change the canvas size without causing any changes to the pixilation of the image
Sunday, 3 January 2010
The Combination Of The Ancillary Tasks And Trailer
The Poster
The poster works very well with the trailer in terms of conveying the main character and his frame of mind. The poster shows the character with a challenging facial expression which has the connotations of him in a “winning” mind state. The smoke behind has many different connotations. One being that his “revenge” and “temper” is rising like a fire, or is scorching, just like the metaphorical fire inside him. The tag line “Revenge is a dish best served cold” also shows his thoughts and possible aims he has, of which the film is about.
These ideas work well with the trailer as they all relate to aspects of its story line. It also shows the character as having a humorous appearance, like many shots in the trailer.
The Magazine
The front cover also works well with the trailer in a similar way to the poster. It shows the character posing in front of a boxing bag with the word “Cleverlast” on. In this picture he has the same challenging and smiling facial expression as he does on the magazine, and in various shots throughout the film. The punch bag in the background along with the brick wall makes the setting seem like a garage location, which the shot is based in. The brick wall also has very tough and hard connotations, which create a comical contrast with the main character.
In Conclusion
I think that when the finished products are combined, they sell the film to the audience by focusing on the character. Each ancillary task sells the film the most by having a large image of the main character. The trailer is more of a character lead film than plot, therefore influencing the target audience to view the film because of the fact they want to see more of him.
The poster works very well with the trailer in terms of conveying the main character and his frame of mind. The poster shows the character with a challenging facial expression which has the connotations of him in a “winning” mind state. The smoke behind has many different connotations. One being that his “revenge” and “temper” is rising like a fire, or is scorching, just like the metaphorical fire inside him. The tag line “Revenge is a dish best served cold” also shows his thoughts and possible aims he has, of which the film is about.
These ideas work well with the trailer as they all relate to aspects of its story line. It also shows the character as having a humorous appearance, like many shots in the trailer.
The Magazine
The front cover also works well with the trailer in a similar way to the poster. It shows the character posing in front of a boxing bag with the word “Cleverlast” on. In this picture he has the same challenging and smiling facial expression as he does on the magazine, and in various shots throughout the film. The punch bag in the background along with the brick wall makes the setting seem like a garage location, which the shot is based in. The brick wall also has very tough and hard connotations, which create a comical contrast with the main character.
In Conclusion
I think that when the finished products are combined, they sell the film to the audience by focusing on the character. Each ancillary task sells the film the most by having a large image of the main character. The trailer is more of a character lead film than plot, therefore influencing the target audience to view the film because of the fact they want to see more of him.
My Casting vs. Actual Actors
Chris’ character: In a real film, I would cast Simon Bird (Will McKenie - “Inbetweeners”) due to his nerdish ,middle class portrayal of his character in the “Inbetweeners”. He is well known for playing a character with these characteristics and therefore be suited for the role of the main character.
Glen’s character: I would cast Rupert Grint (Ronald Weasley – “Harry Potter”) as the main characters “side kick” because of his similar and unintimidating appearance to Glen.
Nick’s character: To play Nick’s character I chose Jamie Simon Borthwick (Jay Brown “Eastenders”) solely because of the character he is mostly known for playing (Jay Brown). Jay is a young boy but has an aggressive and feisty personality. The age and characteristics would match Nick’s bully character well.
Harry’s character: Jamie Waylett (Vincent Crabbe “Harry Potter”). I chose him because he portrays a bully in Harry Potter and has a loutish and slightly obese appearance.
Glen’s character: I would cast Rupert Grint (Ronald Weasley – “Harry Potter”) as the main characters “side kick” because of his similar and unintimidating appearance to Glen.
Nick’s character: To play Nick’s character I chose Jamie Simon Borthwick (Jay Brown “Eastenders”) solely because of the character he is mostly known for playing (Jay Brown). Jay is a young boy but has an aggressive and feisty personality. The age and characteristics would match Nick’s bully character well.
Harry’s character: Jamie Waylett (Vincent Crabbe “Harry Potter”). I chose him because he portrays a bully in Harry Potter and has a loutish and slightly obese appearance.
Friday, 25 December 2009
Audience feedback
Once my trailer was created, I made my target audience view it and answer my survey. To make results fair, I used the same people as I did for my research survey. Due to the fact I have set open answered qualitative questions, it is impossible for me to make charts conveying the results.
Question 1: Most people said that they were satisfied how well the trailer conveyed the character. These people said they saw him enough, in different situations and in different moods.
About three of the people said that they saw too much of him, and would of preferred the trailer to give away less about the character.
In contrast to this, one person said that they wanted to see more of him, as they were not completely clear what the film was about.
Judging by the results, most people felt I conveyed the character to them the right amount, by showing them the right amount of shots of him.
Question 2: This question links very well with the previous. The trend of answers was predictably the same as before. Most people said they saw enough of him, and someone said “The amount of shots showing the main character was, in my opinion, a perfect amount”.
The same three people said they saw too much of him and all of them said they wanted to see more of the other characters.
The same person answered with “I thought that the main character wasn't shown enough, and I didn't know exactly what was going on with him”.
Just like before, I will go with the majorities opinion and believe that I have included the right number of shots showing the main character.
3. Everyone surveyed (apart from two) felt that the magazine and poster portrays the film in a very positive way, and one person said “just looking at the poster made me want to see the film”. The two other people who answered the survey said that “the magazine and poster just wasn’t as good as the trailer, and they didn’t make me want to see the film”. The other said very something similar.
However, the majority felt the it does “sell” the film well, and that they “work well with the film”.
4. Everybody surveyed did say they wanted to watch the film. However, many different reasons were given. Some of them were: “the trailer just looks really funny”, “I can relate to certain aspects of the characters situation” and “the main character is the best protagonist I’ve seen, ever”.
I was very pleased with these results, however as the survey is face to face, they might have felt rude to answer more negatively.
5. I left the last question very vague so that I could obtain a broad range of answers. Fifteen of the people said that nothing was to be improved, one even went as far as saying it was “perfect”. However, I had five different answers come back from seven people (I had practically the same answer of that they saw him too much from 3 different people, and somebody left more than one comment) who felt I could have done something differently. These answers were:
I would have liked to of seen more shots of the main character
I would have liked to of seen less of the main character
I wasn’t entirely sure what the story line was about
Not enough was shown about the other characters
The voice over was slightly amateur
Overall I am pretty happy with the way my target audience answered my questions positively. However, as I used primary research, asking face to face questions, some of the people might have felt under pressure to give a satisfying answer, instead of actually telling the truth. Therefore it is arguable that my results are not accurate.
Question 1: Most people said that they were satisfied how well the trailer conveyed the character. These people said they saw him enough, in different situations and in different moods.
About three of the people said that they saw too much of him, and would of preferred the trailer to give away less about the character.
In contrast to this, one person said that they wanted to see more of him, as they were not completely clear what the film was about.
Judging by the results, most people felt I conveyed the character to them the right amount, by showing them the right amount of shots of him.
Question 2: This question links very well with the previous. The trend of answers was predictably the same as before. Most people said they saw enough of him, and someone said “The amount of shots showing the main character was, in my opinion, a perfect amount”.
The same three people said they saw too much of him and all of them said they wanted to see more of the other characters.
The same person answered with “I thought that the main character wasn't shown enough, and I didn't know exactly what was going on with him”.
Just like before, I will go with the majorities opinion and believe that I have included the right number of shots showing the main character.
3. Everyone surveyed (apart from two) felt that the magazine and poster portrays the film in a very positive way, and one person said “just looking at the poster made me want to see the film”. The two other people who answered the survey said that “the magazine and poster just wasn’t as good as the trailer, and they didn’t make me want to see the film”. The other said very something similar.
However, the majority felt the it does “sell” the film well, and that they “work well with the film”.
4. Everybody surveyed did say they wanted to watch the film. However, many different reasons were given. Some of them were: “the trailer just looks really funny”, “I can relate to certain aspects of the characters situation” and “the main character is the best protagonist I’ve seen, ever”.
I was very pleased with these results, however as the survey is face to face, they might have felt rude to answer more negatively.
5. I left the last question very vague so that I could obtain a broad range of answers. Fifteen of the people said that nothing was to be improved, one even went as far as saying it was “perfect”. However, I had five different answers come back from seven people (I had practically the same answer of that they saw him too much from 3 different people, and somebody left more than one comment) who felt I could have done something differently. These answers were:
I would have liked to of seen more shots of the main character
I would have liked to of seen less of the main character
I wasn’t entirely sure what the story line was about
Not enough was shown about the other characters
The voice over was slightly amateur
Overall I am pretty happy with the way my target audience answered my questions positively. However, as I used primary research, asking face to face questions, some of the people might have felt under pressure to give a satisfying answer, instead of actually telling the truth. Therefore it is arguable that my results are not accurate.
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
Saturday, 5 December 2009
Problems I faced when filming and uploading
This was a typical problem I faced when filming, the actors being put off by each others script and appearance. On one instance it took the cast and me half an hour to film one part, due to the amount of times someone started laghing.T here was no real way to get round this except filming the shot a number of times until we got it perfect.
Another problem I faced when uploading was frames being dropped. The software we used, which was "Pinnacle", cut frames out the shot everytime they were uploaded. The only way to get round this was, again, to film a shot multiple times. As you can see here, only one of the times where Chris says "Give it your best shot" doesn't cut.
Thursday, 3 December 2009
Still Image in Trailer
This is the still image I have made on Photoshop. It has the "Rockwell" font I have used for the poster for the film name and the"In Cinemas..." part. Everything else is written in white standard sans serif font. I inserted the "V-man film studios", the certification and what the film contains as this makes the image look much more official. The black background id there because the yellow font stands out well and the black fade fades into it well. As well as this I included the 12A logo.
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
An experimental shot
Near the end of the trailer where Chris confronts the bullies I decided to capture something a little different to the shotlist and story board.
Instead of him saying "Would one like a piece of me" and then afterwards "give it your best shot" I had a go at seeing what it would be like with him saying "Give it your best shot" first. I didn't feel this is was as funny as the original plan so I stuck to it. (Please ignore the second shot on the video)
Tuesday, 1 December 2009
Garage door shot
At first when I filmed the garage door scene the quality was not good enough.
As you can see from this clip the shadows of the peoples hands that lift the door up are noticeable, the camera is slightly wonky and the brightness of the sun makes Chris' face hard to see.
I did the shot again and I have uploaded some screen shots of it to show the difference. I would have uploaded the video however the file is not properly working at the moment and not uploading onto this blog.
As you can see there is no shaddows of hands, no lighting defects and no wonky camera position.
Sunday, 29 November 2009
How closely am I following my story board and shot list (part 2)
Although I have stuck to most of my storyboard and shot list very closely and followed it in order, I decided to add more shots into the trailer.
I already have the shot of Chris on the punchbag, however, for his hardest punch at the end I thought it would be appropriate to edit this in slowmotion as this looks very funny.
I have already got a shot of Chris posing in the mirror, however, I felt another would fit in well, as that way it seperates all the same things like talking and prevents them all be done in order.
This shot is just another mid shot of Chris getting kicked in the groin by Harry. It was filmed in a street near the alleyway. The location for this shot wasn't really that important. I thought that if I film another shot of this happening to Chris then the trailer would have a montage effect.
The same goes for this shot, it is similar to shots I've already used, however, when added into the trailer it will, again, create a montage. This repetition of similar shots shows how often the bullies attack Chris' character.
This close up of Chris' face after he has just been kicked in thr groin. I chose to shoot this as I thought this was a good shot to end the montage with, instead of the close up of Glen.
This is a mid shot I thought I'd shoot mainly because the classes reaction to the other shots of him weightlifting was very positive, as they found this funny. Therefore I chose to shot more. The setting is the same as the others, in the living room and the mise en scene involves the soft toys on the sofa.
I already have the shot of Chris on the punchbag, however, for his hardest punch at the end I thought it would be appropriate to edit this in slowmotion as this looks very funny.
I have already got a shot of Chris posing in the mirror, however, I felt another would fit in well, as that way it seperates all the same things like talking and prevents them all be done in order.
For the section of where Chris is working out, I have decided to move around certain clips to vary whats happening on screen al through it. For example, the shot where Glen asks "SO what are you gonna do about those boys?" is followed by a few shots of Chris exercising and then it goes back to him replying.
Saturday, 28 November 2009
How closely am I following my story board and shot list
For most of my shots, I have completely stuck to my shot list and story board. There are a few slight difference and a few more shots I've added in.
Shot list description: A long shot from the side showing the two main geek characters (Chris and Glen) getting kicked in the groin at the same time, by the two bullies (Nick and Harry’s characters). Both groups are standing in a line like formation which should give a very humorous point of view for the audience
As you can see, the actual shot is very similar to how I planned it to be.
Another example:
A close up of the back of Chris’ legs with a foot come up and hit his groin. I want to use this shot as it is filmed in a very different position and looked very amusing when I practiced it with the cast.
As you can see, the actual shot is very similar to the story board image and shot list description.
Friday, 13 November 2009
Blocking
Blocking
The first place I have chosen to film is the living room in Chris’ house. The main reasons that influenced my choice were that the lighting can be easily changed, because the windows have thick curtains that block most of the sunlight and there are a range of lights where the brightness can be changed to suit the scene. As well as this, it’s quite an open space so many different angles and camera positions can be chosen. It also has a large mirror which is essential for the shots capturing Chris talking and posing in the mirror. Also suitable mise en scene can be placed around the room due to the fact that it is quite open and has lots of shelves and other storage places. This room will be used to film the shots of Chris exercising and talking to Glen as well as the mirror shots.
The second place I will film is an alleyway in South Woodham Ferrers. This is because it has many different turnings which could potentially be used to film in. As well as this, it will be easier to film in than other alleyways due to the fact that it is not very busy and few people walk through it.
The third place is in Chris’ garage. This is because he has a garage door which is easy to lift and open as well as the fact that he has a punch bag which can be used for the shots involving it.
The first place I have chosen to film is the living room in Chris’ house. The main reasons that influenced my choice were that the lighting can be easily changed, because the windows have thick curtains that block most of the sunlight and there are a range of lights where the brightness can be changed to suit the scene. As well as this, it’s quite an open space so many different angles and camera positions can be chosen. It also has a large mirror which is essential for the shots capturing Chris talking and posing in the mirror. Also suitable mise en scene can be placed around the room due to the fact that it is quite open and has lots of shelves and other storage places. This room will be used to film the shots of Chris exercising and talking to Glen as well as the mirror shots.
The second place I will film is an alleyway in South Woodham Ferrers. This is because it has many different turnings which could potentially be used to film in. As well as this, it will be easier to film in than other alleyways due to the fact that it is not very busy and few people walk through it.
The third place is in Chris’ garage. This is because he has a garage door which is easy to lift and open as well as the fact that he has a punch bag which can be used for the shots involving it.
Thursday, 12 November 2009
Shot List and Script
Shot List
The introduction to the character (first scene/few seconds)
1. Starts off from a fade to a mid shot showing the garage door opening up revealing Chris standing there. There will be a slightly low angled shot to make him seem grander and maybe a little bit heroic when the voiceover and music is added to it.
2. A speeded up zoom into his face, a convention used in trailers (however its usually a very fast track, but I am unable to do this as I do not have the equipment to do this successfully).
3. A big close up showing the characters face more. This quick approach to seeing the Chris’ amusing facial expression will give a comical affect as well as quickly introduces the viewer to the character. It also gives them a chance to make their first impression of the character
The scenes of the characters being bullied (this is outside in various alleyways)
4. A fade to a long shot of Chris getting attacked by the bullies from a side angle. This angle and distance gives the viewer a clear view of what’s happening to the character. The sudden change from a brave and heroic appearance to getting hit by bullies creates a humorous juxtaposition.
5. A close up of the back of Chris’ legs with a foot come up and hit his groin. I want to use this shot as it is filmed in a very different position and looked very amusing when I practiced it with the cast
6. A long shot from the side showing the two main geek characters (Chris and Glen) getting kicked in the groin at the same time, by the two bullies (Nick and Harry’s characters). Both groups are standing in a line like formation which should give a very humorous point of view for the audience
7. Then a reaction shot of Chris’ face in a medium close up
8. A point of view shot from a bully showing Glen’s reaction. From a slightly high angled position to make him look smaller and less superior
Scenes of character in dark living room mirror scene
9. A medium close up of Chris talking to himself in the mirror. I plan to have dark lighting in the scene to set a more dramatic mood. I will also have to use a diagonal angle as the mirror will reflect me and the camera if not done so
The scenes of Chris working out and talking to Glen (all in characters living room)
10. A close up of Chris doing push ups. This captures his funny but struggling face showing that as well as his character cant stand up for himself, he is also physically unfit and not strong. The camera has to tilt upwards to follow his movements
11. A mid shot of Chris doing shoulder presses with small dumbbells. I plan to use a slightly diagonal position for the camera so I don’t capture him straight on. I don’t wish to do this as it does not always look right if the subject is not doing something interesting
12. An over the shoulder shot, from a medium close up position showing Chris play a boxing game on the “Wii”. This point of view allows us to see him moving his arms with the games console and at the same time show the television screen, making it clear what it is that he’s doing
13. A medium close up of Chris still playing the “Wii” from a more frontward position, however from a slight angle. I will be extra careful not to cross the “line of action” as the scene is the same as the previous shot
14. A mid shot of Chris posing with his “muscles” in the mirror. I plan to do this from an angle to make sure the camera is not reflected
15. Another mid shot of Chris punching a boxing bag. The distance of a mid shot allows me to capture both Chris’ movements and facial expressions, as well as the punch bag itself. I will use a slight angle by filming with the punch bag slightly closer to the camera as it fits everything into the shot easier
16. An over the shoulder shot viewing Glen talking to Chris. I will use a slightly high angle shot to capture both of them in the shot, as they are laying down playing chess.
17. Straight after this I will film another over the shoulder shot of Chris talking to Glen, in the same conversation. I will again use a slight high angle to capture everything in the scene
18. After this a mid shot of Chris bicep curling a dumbbell. It is from an angle to capture the mise on scene of the living room. However, I have yet to plan what or where I can put background objects in this scene, so the angle will have to be chosen on the day of filming. The section closes with Chris dropping the dumbbell as its too heavy for him
The scenes of Chris confronting the bullies (all set in an alleyway)
19. From a fade I will then go into a long shot showing Glen being beaten up by the bullies. The long shot captures the bullies from head to toe which is important as they will be kicking Glen whilst he’s on the floor
20. After this I will use a long shot of Chris running round the corner of the alleyway shouting at the bullies to stop. I will use a slightly low angle to suggest he is bigger and braver than before. I hope to film this shot on a sunny day because it will make Chris look darker and less easy to see, which is a typical convention in film when a superhero turns up. The darkness from the alleyway and the brightness behind Chris will help me pull this shot off
21. The camera will go back to the two Bullies reactions of Chris appearing to save his friend, using the same camera position as I did when they were beating Glen’s character up
22. I will then go back to Chris who will say his lines and then start to approach the bullies, still from a low angle
23. Then an over the shoulder shot of Chris walking up to the bullies with them in the background – over his shoulder
24. After this it will fade out to a still image of the films name and viewing details, pause for a few seconds, then cut to a close up of Chris saying his line to the bullies. The camera will be directly on Chris, giving a slight point of view shot from the bully’s perspective, but also as there was no fade from the image, comically makes his face appear on screen in an intimidating way. This last quick shot is a regular convention of trailers and if I get all aspects of this shot right, the trailer can end on a very funny shot
Script and Songs/non diagetic sounds
Shot 1: I will have a voice over of “When a boy gets pushed to far, he becomes a man”. For this I want a serious deep voice speaking, with an American accent. This is used in probably over half the trailers seen from mainstream films. It gives a sense of seriousness and an epic setting. The American accent makes the film sound much more of a bigger project, which again, gives the impression that it will be epic. However, once the viewer has seen Chris’ face as he is revealed, they realise the film is not grand and epic. All the tension built up, all the drama is just a comedic anticlimax. As well as the voice, I will use some dramatic but slow music to help the scene look even more dramatic. This will last all the way into shot 3.
Shot 9: I will have Chris’ character say “I’ve been picked on for too long. Revenge is a dish best served cold”. This very dramatic and dark line sums up his attitude towards the bullies. The dramatic and dark tone is reflected by the dim lighting of the room. The dialogue will be put over the following shots and the actual shot itself of Chris will be cut shorter. The voice going over other shots is a convention that regularly appears in comedy trailers. Similarly to shot 1, the contrast between the seriousness of the music and script, and Chris’ ridiculous character, creates a very humorous effect. As well as the dialogue, I will have the song “Club Foot” by “Kasabian” starting and playing all the way through until the still image just after shot 23. I have picked this song because it has quite an energetic and tough feel to it, plus it has been used in trailers for such action fighting films like “Green Street”. The tune is a well known one and is often associated with someone going through hardship or fighting, for example trailers for wrestling matches have used it or professional boxers for their entrance song. It is a more than appropriate song; however I would not consider it a fighting film cliché when used for a comedy trailer.
Undecided shot/s: I will have the deep voiceover saying “Starring Chris Craske” “And Glen Russling” somewhere during the scenes of Chris working out and talking to Glen. This voiceover obviously tells the audience who is starring in the film. However, the deep voice is used in many action trailers when a famous star such as “Vin Diesel” or “Jason Statham” is well known for their “tough guy” serious characters. Therefore using another action film trailer convention enforces the contrast between seriousness and humour.
Shot 16: Glen’s character will ask Chris “So what are you gonna do those boys?”
Shot 17: Chris’ character will reply coldly “I’m gonna get those boys”
Shot 22: Chris will say “Halt! Leave my friend alone!” The halt is the sort of language someone as geeky and pathetic as the character would say when trying to be intimidating. It is also a word that nobody really uses in modern day speech, which shows his inexperience of being in a confronting position.
Shot 23: As he is walking towards the bullies I will have him shout “Would one like a piece of me?” Again, using the word “one” to refer to someone you’re speaking to is something that is very rare in modern day speech. This again shows his inexperience. As well this, the actual line “would one like a piece of me” is a well-worn clichéd phrase, and shows the character does not, again, know how to be confrontational.
Shot 24: He will aggressively say “Give it your best shot”. This is challenging but at the same time no where near as threatening as the character would intend it to be.
The introduction to the character (first scene/few seconds)
1. Starts off from a fade to a mid shot showing the garage door opening up revealing Chris standing there. There will be a slightly low angled shot to make him seem grander and maybe a little bit heroic when the voiceover and music is added to it.
2. A speeded up zoom into his face, a convention used in trailers (however its usually a very fast track, but I am unable to do this as I do not have the equipment to do this successfully).
3. A big close up showing the characters face more. This quick approach to seeing the Chris’ amusing facial expression will give a comical affect as well as quickly introduces the viewer to the character. It also gives them a chance to make their first impression of the character
The scenes of the characters being bullied (this is outside in various alleyways)
4. A fade to a long shot of Chris getting attacked by the bullies from a side angle. This angle and distance gives the viewer a clear view of what’s happening to the character. The sudden change from a brave and heroic appearance to getting hit by bullies creates a humorous juxtaposition.
5. A close up of the back of Chris’ legs with a foot come up and hit his groin. I want to use this shot as it is filmed in a very different position and looked very amusing when I practiced it with the cast
6. A long shot from the side showing the two main geek characters (Chris and Glen) getting kicked in the groin at the same time, by the two bullies (Nick and Harry’s characters). Both groups are standing in a line like formation which should give a very humorous point of view for the audience
7. Then a reaction shot of Chris’ face in a medium close up
8. A point of view shot from a bully showing Glen’s reaction. From a slightly high angled position to make him look smaller and less superior
Scenes of character in dark living room mirror scene
9. A medium close up of Chris talking to himself in the mirror. I plan to have dark lighting in the scene to set a more dramatic mood. I will also have to use a diagonal angle as the mirror will reflect me and the camera if not done so
The scenes of Chris working out and talking to Glen (all in characters living room)
10. A close up of Chris doing push ups. This captures his funny but struggling face showing that as well as his character cant stand up for himself, he is also physically unfit and not strong. The camera has to tilt upwards to follow his movements
11. A mid shot of Chris doing shoulder presses with small dumbbells. I plan to use a slightly diagonal position for the camera so I don’t capture him straight on. I don’t wish to do this as it does not always look right if the subject is not doing something interesting
12. An over the shoulder shot, from a medium close up position showing Chris play a boxing game on the “Wii”. This point of view allows us to see him moving his arms with the games console and at the same time show the television screen, making it clear what it is that he’s doing
13. A medium close up of Chris still playing the “Wii” from a more frontward position, however from a slight angle. I will be extra careful not to cross the “line of action” as the scene is the same as the previous shot
14. A mid shot of Chris posing with his “muscles” in the mirror. I plan to do this from an angle to make sure the camera is not reflected
15. Another mid shot of Chris punching a boxing bag. The distance of a mid shot allows me to capture both Chris’ movements and facial expressions, as well as the punch bag itself. I will use a slight angle by filming with the punch bag slightly closer to the camera as it fits everything into the shot easier
16. An over the shoulder shot viewing Glen talking to Chris. I will use a slightly high angle shot to capture both of them in the shot, as they are laying down playing chess.
17. Straight after this I will film another over the shoulder shot of Chris talking to Glen, in the same conversation. I will again use a slight high angle to capture everything in the scene
18. After this a mid shot of Chris bicep curling a dumbbell. It is from an angle to capture the mise on scene of the living room. However, I have yet to plan what or where I can put background objects in this scene, so the angle will have to be chosen on the day of filming. The section closes with Chris dropping the dumbbell as its too heavy for him
The scenes of Chris confronting the bullies (all set in an alleyway)
19. From a fade I will then go into a long shot showing Glen being beaten up by the bullies. The long shot captures the bullies from head to toe which is important as they will be kicking Glen whilst he’s on the floor
20. After this I will use a long shot of Chris running round the corner of the alleyway shouting at the bullies to stop. I will use a slightly low angle to suggest he is bigger and braver than before. I hope to film this shot on a sunny day because it will make Chris look darker and less easy to see, which is a typical convention in film when a superhero turns up. The darkness from the alleyway and the brightness behind Chris will help me pull this shot off
21. The camera will go back to the two Bullies reactions of Chris appearing to save his friend, using the same camera position as I did when they were beating Glen’s character up
22. I will then go back to Chris who will say his lines and then start to approach the bullies, still from a low angle
23. Then an over the shoulder shot of Chris walking up to the bullies with them in the background – over his shoulder
24. After this it will fade out to a still image of the films name and viewing details, pause for a few seconds, then cut to a close up of Chris saying his line to the bullies. The camera will be directly on Chris, giving a slight point of view shot from the bully’s perspective, but also as there was no fade from the image, comically makes his face appear on screen in an intimidating way. This last quick shot is a regular convention of trailers and if I get all aspects of this shot right, the trailer can end on a very funny shot
Script and Songs/non diagetic sounds
Shot 1: I will have a voice over of “When a boy gets pushed to far, he becomes a man”. For this I want a serious deep voice speaking, with an American accent. This is used in probably over half the trailers seen from mainstream films. It gives a sense of seriousness and an epic setting. The American accent makes the film sound much more of a bigger project, which again, gives the impression that it will be epic. However, once the viewer has seen Chris’ face as he is revealed, they realise the film is not grand and epic. All the tension built up, all the drama is just a comedic anticlimax. As well as the voice, I will use some dramatic but slow music to help the scene look even more dramatic. This will last all the way into shot 3.
Shot 9: I will have Chris’ character say “I’ve been picked on for too long. Revenge is a dish best served cold”. This very dramatic and dark line sums up his attitude towards the bullies. The dramatic and dark tone is reflected by the dim lighting of the room. The dialogue will be put over the following shots and the actual shot itself of Chris will be cut shorter. The voice going over other shots is a convention that regularly appears in comedy trailers. Similarly to shot 1, the contrast between the seriousness of the music and script, and Chris’ ridiculous character, creates a very humorous effect. As well as the dialogue, I will have the song “Club Foot” by “Kasabian” starting and playing all the way through until the still image just after shot 23. I have picked this song because it has quite an energetic and tough feel to it, plus it has been used in trailers for such action fighting films like “Green Street”. The tune is a well known one and is often associated with someone going through hardship or fighting, for example trailers for wrestling matches have used it or professional boxers for their entrance song. It is a more than appropriate song; however I would not consider it a fighting film cliché when used for a comedy trailer.
Undecided shot/s: I will have the deep voiceover saying “Starring Chris Craske” “And Glen Russling” somewhere during the scenes of Chris working out and talking to Glen. This voiceover obviously tells the audience who is starring in the film. However, the deep voice is used in many action trailers when a famous star such as “Vin Diesel” or “Jason Statham” is well known for their “tough guy” serious characters. Therefore using another action film trailer convention enforces the contrast between seriousness and humour.
Shot 16: Glen’s character will ask Chris “So what are you gonna do those boys?”
Shot 17: Chris’ character will reply coldly “I’m gonna get those boys”
Shot 22: Chris will say “Halt! Leave my friend alone!” The halt is the sort of language someone as geeky and pathetic as the character would say when trying to be intimidating. It is also a word that nobody really uses in modern day speech, which shows his inexperience of being in a confronting position.
Shot 23: As he is walking towards the bullies I will have him shout “Would one like a piece of me?” Again, using the word “one” to refer to someone you’re speaking to is something that is very rare in modern day speech. This again shows his inexperience. As well this, the actual line “would one like a piece of me” is a well-worn clichéd phrase, and shows the character does not, again, know how to be confrontational.
Shot 24: He will aggressively say “Give it your best shot”. This is challenging but at the same time no where near as threatening as the character would intend it to be.
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