Preliminary Task

In preparation for the filming of our Thriller Openings we were instructed to create a short movie that consists of a character entering a room and then conversing with another character whom is sitting opposite this character. We did this in order to grasp a better understanding of the type of shots often used in TV Dramas such as the eyeline match, match on action, shot reverse shot and the 180 degree rule. The 180 degree rule is a shot you need to be precise with as it is not effective unless it stays on one side of the characters whilst filming so that the characters both have designated positions that do not change, otherwise the rule is broken and the scene could become unclear. 

In order to prepare for the filming of our preliminary task we had to create a script and storyboard so that we did not have to improvise whilst we were being filmed. The storyboard took a while as we had to try and find a way of incorporating every single shot technique into the film. The script did not take long as it was a very short film and some of the dialogue was improvised whilst we filmed as we thought it made the film flow more.

We filmed our preliminary task in one of the ICT rooms opposite where we have our Media Studies lessons. This was good place to film as the light was fine and did not change whilst we filmed. The room was also completely empty therefore we did not have to worry about people coming in and out interrupting us. 

The filming and editing of our preliminary task was also relatively simple and did not take up a lot of time. We used Canon SLR as well as a tripod in order to keep the camera from shaking whilst we were filming. However for the shot were the male character enters the room we could not find an appropriate angle where the tripod could be used, therefore the camera shakes a bit whilst we are filming. The editing of the film was also very simple as we did not need to change the audio or speed of any of the footage. Therefore it was simply a matter of ordering the different footage and cutting some of it down.

This task was beneficial for me as it gave me a clearer idea of what we needed to work on preparation wise for our Thriller Opening. It showed us how important it is to storyboard what your going to film as it makes the filming process significantly more efficient and faster. It also made me more comfortable with the different equipment we would have to use when we filmed.