Looking back at your preliminary task, what do you feel you have learnt from it to the full product?
The preliminary task was used to practise using the camera equipment. We had to film a conversation between two people in order to gain an understanding of how to use the camera and the tripod efficiently. It allowed us to try out the various forms of cinematography, in particular shots such as a reaction shot, a long shot and an over the shoulder shot. It also allowed us to understand the ways in which final cut pro was used, as we had to cut and edit the clip.
There was a very large learning curve in the process of the preliminary task. This was seen as we learnt from our various mistakes throughout the process.
One problem we had was the camera being unsecure on the tripod, this lead to the footage being bumpy and jagged. We soon discovered how to screw the camera on properly and this was avoided throughout the progression filming the opening sequence. Evidence of this is shown through our steady filming towards the end of the process. This is shown with the zooming in, over the shoulder shot showing the picture of the victim; the filming was very steady.
Another problem consisted of the positioning of the camera. We found it hard to find the correct positions for the camera in order to complete specific shots, resulting in characters being out of focus or facial expressions hard to see. Through trial and error we discovered how to do this and were able to successfully complete all the required cinematography. Examples of this improved cinematography is shown through the scene showing the antagonist obsessing over his victims in his bedroom. This included various shots consisting of mid shots, panning and a close up all used to present the deranged and unstable mentality of the antagonist.
Finally, we struggled with the zooming on the camera. Firstly not knowing where the button was and secondly struggling to do a gradual zoom instead of it being jittery or too quick. Although we mastered how to use the zoom button, getting focused shots and creating the reaction shot, showing the characters facial features; we still struggled when creating a gradual zoom. This was evident from the first few shots in the filming of the opening sequence as the zooms were slightly too fast and jittery. This was improved as the filming went on, we got a far better understanding of how to slowly zoom in, creating a much better effect for the audience. Again evidence of this is shown mid way through the sequence through the over the shoulder shot showing the picture of the victim held by the antagonist. Within this shot is a successful gradual zoom.
In addition to this, although we only had to cut and drag the footage to create our preliminary sequence, we still gained a rough idea of how the final cut pro software worked. We gained experience in using the cutting tool and uploading footage which proved very helpful in adding to the efficiency of editing our opening sequence. This cutting tool proved very useful as scenes were cut and shuffled to emphasise the clarity of the narrative.
When contrasting this camera work to the filming of our preliminary task, it shows the progression of our filming as we had conquered all the problems seen within the task and developed them into having a lasting effect on the audience.
Sunday 22 February 2015
evaluation, question 5
Q5 - How did you attract/address your audience?
The target audience was addressed through various forms of
research consisting of a questionnaire, research into the thriller genre and
age restriction, plus an analysis of various successful thriller films.
The main form of secondary research consisted of an analysis
of various micro elements within the thriller genre; this was very beneficial
and had a large influence on the production of the sequence. One example might
be the hidden identity seen in ‘scary movie’. This was demonstrated in ‘scary
movie’ through the use of a mask on the antagonist; similarly my sequence used
hooded clothing to hide the identity of the antagonist. This is used to great
effect in the shot at the end of our sequence when the girl is killed; as the killers face is hidden it
creates an enigma for the audience, building a sense of suspense as the audience build curiosity over his identity. Also there was an effective use of high/low camera angles in the opening sequence of ‘Halloween’. After seeing this used to great effect it was added to our opening sequence, used specifically to present the antagonist and the victim. The antagonist was filmed with a low angle to show his dominance and the victim was filmed with a high angle to show her innocence. This was shown specifically in the last shot as the dead victim is filmed with a low angle, showing her innocence and vulnerability. It had a great effect in creating sympathy for the innocent victim.
In addition to this the main antagonist within the film 'seven' is seen to be deranged and unstable. This is seen within many thriller films and has a lasting effect on the audience. We took inspiration from this and created our antagonist with a deranged mind as it helps build upon the thriller conventions within the sequence. Ways in which we portrayed his deranged mind was through a hidden identity and the iconography of the scarf stolen from the female victim. Through showing him as being unstable the audience become fearful of what he is capable of and his intentions. This builds upon the typical conventions of fear and tension as we see the danger that the likeable victim is in.
These inspirations, taken from the successful thriller films
analysed helped us create a successful production as they had a large influence
in the ways in which the thriller conventions are portrayed throughout the
sequence.
The main primary research we used was a questionnaire. This was targeted at teenagers of both genders. It helped reinforce the views on various micro elements with the sequence, the suggested plot and the ways in which we could potentially attract the teenage target audience. This resulted in it being a important component in the production of the openings sequence.
The vox pops provided evidence of the answers to various questions in relation to the sequence. One question was directed at the different types of setting preferred in a thriller film. An isolated setting was seen as most popular. Reasons for this could be because an isolated setting shows the victim as being more vulnerable, increasing the fear factor and the suspense as we want to see them survive. From this an isolated setting was decided upon to present the suicide victim as looking more vulnerable and innocent to the audience. This is shown midway through the sequence as the two girls are being followed by the antagonist. By doing this it increased the suspense and tension as the viewers see her in danger.
Another question asked if the teenagers preferred the use of a hidden identity within the thriller genre. The majority of people said that they appreciated the effects. This had a great influence on the use of it in the sequence. The audience did not see the identity of the antagonist throughout the sequence; being specifically evident as we do not see the hooded figure that killed Carol at the end of the sequence. This is one of the most effective ways of creating suspense and mystery, both key to a thriller, keeping the viewers engaged and entertained. It also builds up an enigma, this being a typical convention used in the thriller genre. Our sequence was based on this use of this enigma, meaning that hidden identity was a vital factor of the sequence.
In addition to this, more importantly, the questionnaire set out a clear pathway into the target audience for the sequence and the ways in which we would attract them. One question asked if the audience would enjoy a thriller film that they could relate to. The majority of people answered 'yes'. This means that we created the sequence based on the age group of the target audience. Meaning that our characters were created to be stereotypical teenagers, taking short cuts on a walk home from school, wearing stereotypical clothing and seen in outgoing, conceited 'selfies' seen taken my many girls of this age group. The effect this had is that it meant the audience could build a closer relationship with the characters, especially the victim, it therefore emphasises the effect of the typical conventions such as shock, surprise and suspense. The stereotypical teenage age group presented in the sequence also may help with the marketing of the film as it is evident from the questionnaire that the target audience would be likely to want to watch a thriller film they could relate to.
Finally one other form of research consisted of planning. This generally involved group discussions as we planned out the plot of the sequence and the various micro-elements.
Firstly we thought of the overall plot. We did this through a group discussion, making notes on any suitable ideas for the narrative, conventions and micro elements within the sequence. Together we came up with the basic themes of death, an enigma, a female/male antagonist and victim relationship; a plot based on modern society and for it to be highly conventional to the thriller genre. Also, within this group discussion we developed our target audience; this being teenagers aged 15-20.
In order to build upon our conventional thriller we had to discuss the micro elements within the sequence. We had separate meetings for each micro element.
With cinematography we decided upon high/ low camera angles to add to character representations, zooming-in shots to highlight the importance of certain moments and characters, plus a use of close ups to highlight the characters' facial expressions which is vital when building character/ audience relationships. These forms of cinematography were seen throughout the sequence. A close up used to show the boot in the scene set in a forest to highlight the antagonists presence, a zooming-in shot to show the danger that the victim may be in and high/ low angles used upon the antagonist and victim throughout the sequence.
With sound we decided to have no dialogue in order to accompany the use of an enigmatic plot. No dialogue adds to the hidden identity used upon the antagonist and means that the audience is left curious about the reasons behind the 'female obsession'. This engages the audience and builds upon the conventions suitable to the thriller genre.
Within the discussions for mise en scene we decided upon the representations of characters throughout the sequence and the use of setting. We decided upon making our thriller relatable to the audience through creating our characters to be stereotypical teenagers. This was done through iconography showing the female victims taking 'selfies', showing the victims as taking short cuts through isolated and potentially dangerous routes, plus using costume to show that they wear typical teenage clothing. In addition to this we also decided upon having an isolated setting, increasing the vulnerability for the victims and building upon the conventions of suspense and fear as we see them in danger.
Finally we decided upon potential editing techniques within the sequence. This consisted of slow editing. Examples of this were specifically seen at the end of the sequence as the antagonist walks away from the victim. It prolongs the scene, building up suspense for the audience which is conventional to the thriller genre.
Overall the planning proved very beneficial to the production of the sequence, having a very large influence on the outcome of the plot, the micro elements and the presentation of characters.
The main primary research we used was a questionnaire. This was targeted at teenagers of both genders. It helped reinforce the views on various micro elements with the sequence, the suggested plot and the ways in which we could potentially attract the teenage target audience. This resulted in it being a important component in the production of the openings sequence.
The vox pops provided evidence of the answers to various questions in relation to the sequence. One question was directed at the different types of setting preferred in a thriller film. An isolated setting was seen as most popular. Reasons for this could be because an isolated setting shows the victim as being more vulnerable, increasing the fear factor and the suspense as we want to see them survive. From this an isolated setting was decided upon to present the suicide victim as looking more vulnerable and innocent to the audience. This is shown midway through the sequence as the two girls are being followed by the antagonist. By doing this it increased the suspense and tension as the viewers see her in danger.
Another question asked if the teenagers preferred the use of a hidden identity within the thriller genre. The majority of people said that they appreciated the effects. This had a great influence on the use of it in the sequence. The audience did not see the identity of the antagonist throughout the sequence; being specifically evident as we do not see the hooded figure that killed Carol at the end of the sequence. This is one of the most effective ways of creating suspense and mystery, both key to a thriller, keeping the viewers engaged and entertained. It also builds up an enigma, this being a typical convention used in the thriller genre. Our sequence was based on this use of this enigma, meaning that hidden identity was a vital factor of the sequence.
In addition to this, more importantly, the questionnaire set out a clear pathway into the target audience for the sequence and the ways in which we would attract them. One question asked if the audience would enjoy a thriller film that they could relate to. The majority of people answered 'yes'. This means that we created the sequence based on the age group of the target audience. Meaning that our characters were created to be stereotypical teenagers, taking short cuts on a walk home from school, wearing stereotypical clothing and seen in outgoing, conceited 'selfies' seen taken my many girls of this age group. The effect this had is that it meant the audience could build a closer relationship with the characters, especially the victim, it therefore emphasises the effect of the typical conventions such as shock, surprise and suspense. The stereotypical teenage age group presented in the sequence also may help with the marketing of the film as it is evident from the questionnaire that the target audience would be likely to want to watch a thriller film they could relate to.
Finally one other form of research consisted of planning. This generally involved group discussions as we planned out the plot of the sequence and the various micro-elements.
Firstly we thought of the overall plot. We did this through a group discussion, making notes on any suitable ideas for the narrative, conventions and micro elements within the sequence. Together we came up with the basic themes of death, an enigma, a female/male antagonist and victim relationship; a plot based on modern society and for it to be highly conventional to the thriller genre. Also, within this group discussion we developed our target audience; this being teenagers aged 15-20.
In order to build upon our conventional thriller we had to discuss the micro elements within the sequence. We had separate meetings for each micro element.
With cinematography we decided upon high/ low camera angles to add to character representations, zooming-in shots to highlight the importance of certain moments and characters, plus a use of close ups to highlight the characters' facial expressions which is vital when building character/ audience relationships. These forms of cinematography were seen throughout the sequence. A close up used to show the boot in the scene set in a forest to highlight the antagonists presence, a zooming-in shot to show the danger that the victim may be in and high/ low angles used upon the antagonist and victim throughout the sequence.
With sound we decided to have no dialogue in order to accompany the use of an enigmatic plot. No dialogue adds to the hidden identity used upon the antagonist and means that the audience is left curious about the reasons behind the 'female obsession'. This engages the audience and builds upon the conventions suitable to the thriller genre.
Within the discussions for mise en scene we decided upon the representations of characters throughout the sequence and the use of setting. We decided upon making our thriller relatable to the audience through creating our characters to be stereotypical teenagers. This was done through iconography showing the female victims taking 'selfies', showing the victims as taking short cuts through isolated and potentially dangerous routes, plus using costume to show that they wear typical teenage clothing. In addition to this we also decided upon having an isolated setting, increasing the vulnerability for the victims and building upon the conventions of suspense and fear as we see them in danger.
Finally we decided upon potential editing techniques within the sequence. This consisted of slow editing. Examples of this were specifically seen at the end of the sequence as the antagonist walks away from the victim. It prolongs the scene, building up suspense for the audience which is conventional to the thriller genre.
Overall the planning proved very beneficial to the production of the sequence, having a very large influence on the outcome of the plot, the micro elements and the presentation of characters.
evaluation, question 4
Q4 - Who would be the audience for your media product?
A target audience is a vital component to the production of
a film. An audience must be targeted in order to get an idea of who the film
must be aimed towards and therefore what must be added to attract various
social groups. Generally the target audience has a large influence on the plot,
characters and overall presentation of key events within the film. This is due
to the film having to be altered so that it relates to targeted social groups. The
target audience is mainly developed to increase viewings.
The target audience that my sequence is aimed at is
teenagers; more specifically aged 15-20. This was decided upon as they are a
key age group that have a large influence in society, meaning that although the film
would be directed at them it could evolve to attract a widespread range of
thriller fans. Teenagers are also generally seen to be very interested in the
thriller genre as they enjoy getting a thrill out of the experience.
Considering my sequence is highly conventional to the thriller genre this age
group seemed the perfect choice as the target audience.The sequence itself has been altered in order to attract this target audience. Firstly, the sequence is focused around typical teenagers, going to school, watching television and having a busy social life. This stereotypical presentation of teenagers is shown through the characters of Brittany and Carol, the victims.
One way in which these characters are presented as stereotypical teenagers is through the plot and their tendency to take short cuts. The teenagers are seen taking various short cuts within the sequence through a council estate, a forest and an overgrown pathway, which are seen to be isolated and dangerous settings. This use of mise en scene and setting shows the girls to be stereotypical to their teenage age group as teenagers are typically seen being lazy and irresponsible when trying to get to places as quick as possible.
In addition to this, towards the start of the sequence, the two female victims are furthermore shown to be stereotypical teenagers. This was achieved through the iconography of the various pictures showing the girls that the antagonist is obsessing over. The pictures are 'selfies' a modern commodity where teenagers take photos of themselves for social network sites. It shows them as outgoing and conceited. These are stereotypical traits of a modern day teenager.
Another way in which the film targets the teenage age group
is through its typical thriller conventions. Teenagers are generally seen to be
fans of the thriller genre, so by making the sequence as conventional as
possible it might appeal to their interests.
One conventional scene within the sequence is when Brittany’s friend is murdered by the antagonist. The sequence is based around the death of the victims friend, it is used to show the danger that Brittany is in. A way in which the death is shown with such significance is through editing; in particular slow editing when slowing the shot of the victim dead on the gravel. By slowing this shot down it develops the shock as the audience see the innocent girl die, plus the audience think more into the reasons behind the murder and the potential identity of the killer. It builds up a sense of shock and suspense for the viewers which are both key conventions of the thriller genre.
Another convention within the sequence consists of the female/male antagonist and victim relationship. This is highly conventional to the thriller genre. We feel sympathetic towards the younger, innocent female victim and fearful of the more dominant male antagonist. This results in a key relationship being built between the audience and the characters. It adds to the suspense and fear within intense parts of the plot, making it very conventional to the genre.
These thriller conventions are developed upon throughout the sequence; this should help attract the teenage target audience as they enjoy the shocking and thrilling factor of the thriller genre.
One conventional scene within the sequence is when Brittany’s friend is murdered by the antagonist. The sequence is based around the death of the victims friend, it is used to show the danger that Brittany is in. A way in which the death is shown with such significance is through editing; in particular slow editing when slowing the shot of the victim dead on the gravel. By slowing this shot down it develops the shock as the audience see the innocent girl die, plus the audience think more into the reasons behind the murder and the potential identity of the killer. It builds up a sense of shock and suspense for the viewers which are both key conventions of the thriller genre.
Another convention within the sequence consists of the female/male antagonist and victim relationship. This is highly conventional to the thriller genre. We feel sympathetic towards the younger, innocent female victim and fearful of the more dominant male antagonist. This results in a key relationship being built between the audience and the characters. It adds to the suspense and fear within intense parts of the plot, making it very conventional to the genre.
These thriller conventions are developed upon throughout the sequence; this should help attract the teenage target audience as they enjoy the shocking and thrilling factor of the thriller genre.
Thursday 19 February 2015
Evaluation - question 2
Q2 - How does your media product represent particular social groups?
One other way in which the film attracts it's targeted social groups is through the use of stereotypical teenage characters, allowing the audience to relate to the plot. The victims are both emphasised to be stereotypical teenage girls of the same age and gender of the target audience. There are various ways in which the film achieves these stereotypical presentations. For example one way this is done is through the plot of the film. The teenagers are seen taking various short cuts within the sequence through a council estate, a forest and an overgrown pathway, which are seen to be isolated and dangerous settings. This use of mise en scene and setting shows the girls to be stereotypical to their teenage age group as teenagers are typically seen being lazy and irresponsible when trying to get to places as quick as possible.
Also, towards the start of the sequence, the two female victims are furthermore shown to be stereotypical teenagers. This was achieved through the iconography of the various pictures showing the girls that the antagonist is obsessing over. The pictures are 'selfies' a modern commodity where teenagers take photos of themselves for social network sites. It shows them as outgoing and conceited. These are stereotypical traits of a modern day teenager. Due to 'selfies' being a modern commodity within the teenage society, the target audience can easily relate to them.
With characters being the main link between the film and the audience there were various ways in which the sequence builds relationships between the characters and the viewers. After presenting the two victims as being stereotypical teenagers that the target audience are able to relate to, the sequence had to emphasise the innocence of the victim ( Brittany ) and the dangerous, psychotic behaviour of the antagonist ( Steve ), in order to elaborate on the tension that would build as the plot develops.
The main way in which a thriller film might target its social groups is through the use of characters. Although the film is aimed at a wide target audience, it is specifically created to appeal to teenagers, even more specifically teenage girls. This is done by focusing the film around the troubled life of a young teenage girl, it helps a relationship to be built between the audience and the victim.
One other way in which the film attracts it's targeted social groups is through the use of stereotypical teenage characters, allowing the audience to relate to the plot. The victims are both emphasised to be stereotypical teenage girls of the same age and gender of the target audience. There are various ways in which the film achieves these stereotypical presentations. For example one way this is done is through the plot of the film. The teenagers are seen taking various short cuts within the sequence through a council estate, a forest and an overgrown pathway, which are seen to be isolated and dangerous settings. This use of mise en scene and setting shows the girls to be stereotypical to their teenage age group as teenagers are typically seen being lazy and irresponsible when trying to get to places as quick as possible.
Also, towards the start of the sequence, the two female victims are furthermore shown to be stereotypical teenagers. This was achieved through the iconography of the various pictures showing the girls that the antagonist is obsessing over. The pictures are 'selfies' a modern commodity where teenagers take photos of themselves for social network sites. It shows them as outgoing and conceited. These are stereotypical traits of a modern day teenager. Due to 'selfies' being a modern commodity within the teenage society, the target audience can easily relate to them.
With characters being the main link between the film and the audience there were various ways in which the sequence builds relationships between the characters and the viewers. After presenting the two victims as being stereotypical teenagers that the target audience are able to relate to, the sequence had to emphasise the innocence of the victim ( Brittany ) and the dangerous, psychotic behaviour of the antagonist ( Steve ), in order to elaborate on the tension that would build as the plot develops.
One way that the girls are shown to be innocent is through editing and the use of the dream effect on the first scene of the sequence. This lightens the colours of the shots. By doing this the characters are furthermore shown to be innocent and vulnerable.
In addition to this, midway through the sequence, there is a low camera angle used to show the picture of the young female victim. This presents her as innocent and vulnerable, foreshadowing that she could be in danger.
This innocent presentation helps build a relationship between the audience and the characters. The audience sympathise with the victims and therefore become far more engaged when they are in danger, building upon the conventions of suspense and fear.
Steve also had to be presented as being psychotic and dangerous so that the audience would become furthermore fearful for the victim. The first way this is achieved is through the hidden identity. This is used whenever the antagonist is seen throughout the sequence. It is done through mes en scene, in particular costume. We never see the face of the antagonist due to his positioning and him wearing hooded clothing. This emphasises his psychotic behaviour as the viewers do not know his thoughts or identity, meaning there is no reasons behind him stalking the victim. Cinematography is also used on Steve to show his dominating stature. This is done through the use of a low angle, specifically seen when he is stalking Brittany from outside her window. This shows him as being dangerous and dominant, towering over the camera. It adds to the suspense of the sequence as we become fearful of what he is capable of.
In addition to this, midway through the sequence, there is a low camera angle used to show the picture of the young female victim. This presents her as innocent and vulnerable, foreshadowing that she could be in danger.
This innocent presentation helps build a relationship between the audience and the characters. The audience sympathise with the victims and therefore become far more engaged when they are in danger, building upon the conventions of suspense and fear.
Steve also had to be presented as being psychotic and dangerous so that the audience would become furthermore fearful for the victim. The first way this is achieved is through the hidden identity. This is used whenever the antagonist is seen throughout the sequence. It is done through mes en scene, in particular costume. We never see the face of the antagonist due to his positioning and him wearing hooded clothing. This emphasises his psychotic behaviour as the viewers do not know his thoughts or identity, meaning there is no reasons behind him stalking the victim. Cinematography is also used on Steve to show his dominating stature. This is done through the use of a low angle, specifically seen when he is stalking Brittany from outside her window. This shows him as being dangerous and dominant, towering over the camera. It adds to the suspense of the sequence as we become fearful of what he is capable of.
In addition to this, another way in which he is presented as being deranged is through the emphasis on his obsession over the female victims. This is seen particularly midway through the sequence with cinematography. An over the shoulder shot shows him obsessing over a picture of the victim. This elaborates on his deranged state of mind. It furthermore adds to the suspense and fear built as we see how dangerous he is
To conclude, the main social group that the film focuses upon is teenage girls, and their stereotypical vulnerability. This helps attract our target audience as the film is generally targeted towards teenagers who can relate to the characters and the plot. They will sympathise for the teenage victim, adding to the fear factor of the film as she is pursued by an older male antagonist.
To conclude, the main social group that the film focuses upon is teenage girls, and their stereotypical vulnerability. This helps attract our target audience as the film is generally targeted towards teenagers who can relate to the characters and the plot. They will sympathise for the teenage victim, adding to the fear factor of the film as she is pursued by an older male antagonist.
Monday 16 February 2015
Evaluation - Intro & Question 1
Introduction
Our task was to produce an opening sequence to a thriller film created by ourselves. It had to demonstrate a sufficient understanding of the conventions seen in the thriller genre and a wide range of micro elements used to a good effect. My group members consisted of Cara Jackson and Emma Allen We each had specific roles within the production of the sequence. Emma was the camera women having control of the camera and the making sure that the mes en scene met our requirements. Cara was the main actor in the sequence, she also contributed to the sound and had a very large influence on the mes en scene alongside Emma.I also had various roles within the sequence. After developing the majority of the ideas for the micro elements used in the sequence, plus the general plot of the sequence I put myself forward as the director. I also had the responsibility of the camera equipment; plus my main role was the editor of the sequence. I felt the biggest learning curve of the task was seen in my editing skills, they got far better as the task went on and I became a lot more experienced with the types of effects and transitions that could be used to effect within the sequence. The group worked well in the specific individual roles we had, however communication was a struggle and we took longer than expected to complete the filming.I felt that overall the sequence was a success as we used the various micro elements to meet the typical conventions seen in the thriller genre. The focal point of the sequence was focused upon the theme of death, this is highly conventional to the genre as it portrays a sense of shock key to the entertainment of the sequence. We also see the use of hidden identity on the antagonist within the clip, this adds an enigma to the sequence building up suspense and tension over who the killer is and his reasons behind the stalking of Brittany; an enigma is generally seen in most successful thriller films. In addition to this, another example of a thriller convention seen in my sequence is the relationship between the dominating male antagonist and the innocent female victim; this is very typical to the genre as it helps build a relationship between the characters and the audience, therefore engaging the viewers and adding to the entertainment of the sequence.
Q1 - In what ways does your media product use, develop or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?
There are various conventions that make up the thriller genre. They are used to have a lasting effect on the audience, creating a more entertaining film for the viewer. The three main conventions adding to the thrilling side of the thriller genre are suspense, shock and surprise.
Suspense is generally built by prolonging a big event or engaging the viewers through building an enigma. This can be done though various micro elements. Typical methods of creating suspense within a thriller film could consist of slow editing, hidden identity or dark and complex plots building up to key events within the film. One film that I analysed which clearly develops the convention of suspense was 'human centipede' in the scene where she attempts to escape from the doctor. Ways in which this clip builds suspense is though the timing and tempo of the shots; it varies from a fast tempo to a slow tempo, prolonging the clip and adding to the tension as we see if the girl escapes or not.
The sense of surprise is conveyed within the thriller genre to furthermore engage the audience so that they are unaware of the outcome of a plot and will generate fear over what may happen. This is usually applied through creating a plot twist. The typical ways in which these plot twists are developed might consist of editing such as jump cuts and shot reverse shot, added sound effects, plus a change in the plot that engages the audience. A clip that clearly shows a plot twist is the opening sequence to the film ' Halloween '. This is shown as the presumed killer is found out to be a child that would be seen as incapable of the murder seen in the clip. This is a prime example of a plot twist that would build upon the sense of surprise and engage the audience, proving to be very conventional to the thriller genre.
The final convention seen in the thriller genre is a shocking sense inflicted upon the audience. This is generally seen through a death or violence. Therefore mes en scene, particularly iconography such as knives or blood, has a large influence into its effect. This is seen in almost every thriller film and is generally seen in the focal point or large event within a piece. In addition to this other typical conventions may include; isolated setting, dark themes, a male antagonist and female victim, plus the frequent use of dark, gloomy sounds.
There were various ways in which my sequence conveyed these conventions. Firstly there was the use of a hidden identity on the antagonist. This was done by using a hooded jumper or coat to constantly hide the facial features of the antagonist, especially seen after the death of Carol, the protagonist. It adds to the suspense as we think about who he is and why he is pursuing the young girl. It also creates an enigma, keeping the audience engaged and adding to the mystery of the clip; mystery being a key convention to the thriller genre.
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The sequence also focuses upon the theme of death as the unidentified antagonist kills the innocent protagonist, a friend of the victim. This is emphasised through various forms of cinematography as the death is revealed. An example of this cinematography includes a high angle on the victim, this shows her to be innocent. It emphasises the fact that she did not deserve to die and builds fear over the dangerous antagonist, we become furthermore fearful for Brittany, the victim who is stalked by the antagonist. The focus on the dark theme of death adds to the sense of shock inflicted upon the audience which is highly orthodox to the genre.
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The death itself shows a plot twist within the sequence. As we see the victim and her friend together and happy we do not expect the friend to die. This plot twist is seen at the end of the sequence and sets up and enigma for the rest of the film. It mainly conveys the convention of surprise as the audience see a likable, innocent character die. It adds to the enigmatic theme of the film building up the sense of suspense and tension, forcing the viewers to want to watch on. This plot twist is extremely conventional to an opening sequence and, more importantly, conventional to the thriller genre.
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One other part of the plot seen to be conventional is the male and female antagonist and victim relationship. This is typically seen in many thriller films; the victim is made out to be an innocent girl shown to be vulnerable and the antagonist is shown to be a dominating male to add to the fear aspect of the film. Various micro elements have been used in order to develop these different character representations. For example a high angle is often used on the victim throughout the sequence to emphasise her innocence and vulnerability, opposed to a low angle used on the antagonist to portray the opposite. Also costume is used to show the teenage victim as being young and innocent, for example the light colours or the pyjamas seen in the first flashback scene. This is opposed to a darker hooded clothing worn by the antagonist showing his dark, sinister behaviour. This contrast in character representation is very conventional to the thriller genre as it helps build a relationship between the characters and the audience. They become fearful of the male antagonist and sympathise towards the female victim. This builds upon the conventions of shock, surprise and suspense as the antagonist pursues his victim.
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In addition to this, another scene that is highly conventional is the second scene. This consists of the antagonist obsessing over the female victims. This consists of various shots showing the antagonists lack of mental stability. For example he is seen smelling a scarf of the young female victim, plus he is seen aggressively highlighting and crossing out photos of his victims. The iconography of the scarf and the photos are all used to show his unstable mentality. Through doing this we inflict a sense of fear upon the audience as they fear for the young female victims. This builds upon the convention of suspense as the audience can sense something bad about to happen.
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Finally, another conventional scene is seen midway through the sequence. We included a shot showing the antagonist staring at a picture of one of the victims. This included an over the shoulder shot, zooming in on the victim. It furthermore shows the insanity of the antagonist, plus foreshadows the danger that the victim is in. It again portrays a sense of suspense and fear as the audience sympathise with the young female victim and sense the danger that she is in. It adds to the conventions within the sequence as this sense of fear and suspend is typically seen within the thriller genre.
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A successful thriller film of which my opening sequence could be compared to is the film 'Halloween'. By comparing the two opening sequence we can see various similarities between the plots and the micro elements used. They are both highly conventional to the thriller genre. One similarity between the two is the use of a hidden identity on the antagonist. This is done through a POV camera angles opposed to our use of costume however has the same effect. It adds to the enigma which is very conventional to the genre. There is also the use of a plot twist in both films; with the child being revealed as the antagonist in Halloween and the death of the protagonist in my opening sequence. This plot twist is typically in thriller films as it creates the essential conventions vital to the thriller genre. Through comparing my sequence to that of the successful and conventional 'Halloween' thriller film, I feel that I have been successful in demonstrating the conventions within the thriller genre in my opening sequence.
Our task was to produce an opening sequence to a thriller film created by ourselves. It had to demonstrate a sufficient understanding of the conventions seen in the thriller genre and a wide range of micro elements used to a good effect. My group members consisted of Cara Jackson and Emma Allen We each had specific roles within the production of the sequence. Emma was the camera women having control of the camera and the making sure that the mes en scene met our requirements. Cara was the main actor in the sequence, she also contributed to the sound and had a very large influence on the mes en scene alongside Emma.I also had various roles within the sequence. After developing the majority of the ideas for the micro elements used in the sequence, plus the general plot of the sequence I put myself forward as the director. I also had the responsibility of the camera equipment; plus my main role was the editor of the sequence. I felt the biggest learning curve of the task was seen in my editing skills, they got far better as the task went on and I became a lot more experienced with the types of effects and transitions that could be used to effect within the sequence. The group worked well in the specific individual roles we had, however communication was a struggle and we took longer than expected to complete the filming.I felt that overall the sequence was a success as we used the various micro elements to meet the typical conventions seen in the thriller genre. The focal point of the sequence was focused upon the theme of death, this is highly conventional to the genre as it portrays a sense of shock key to the entertainment of the sequence. We also see the use of hidden identity on the antagonist within the clip, this adds an enigma to the sequence building up suspense and tension over who the killer is and his reasons behind the stalking of Brittany; an enigma is generally seen in most successful thriller films. In addition to this, another example of a thriller convention seen in my sequence is the relationship between the dominating male antagonist and the innocent female victim; this is very typical to the genre as it helps build a relationship between the characters and the audience, therefore engaging the viewers and adding to the entertainment of the sequence.
Q1 - In what ways does your media product use, develop or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?
There are various conventions that make up the thriller genre. They are used to have a lasting effect on the audience, creating a more entertaining film for the viewer. The three main conventions adding to the thrilling side of the thriller genre are suspense, shock and surprise.
Suspense is generally built by prolonging a big event or engaging the viewers through building an enigma. This can be done though various micro elements. Typical methods of creating suspense within a thriller film could consist of slow editing, hidden identity or dark and complex plots building up to key events within the film. One film that I analysed which clearly develops the convention of suspense was 'human centipede' in the scene where she attempts to escape from the doctor. Ways in which this clip builds suspense is though the timing and tempo of the shots; it varies from a fast tempo to a slow tempo, prolonging the clip and adding to the tension as we see if the girl escapes or not.
The sense of surprise is conveyed within the thriller genre to furthermore engage the audience so that they are unaware of the outcome of a plot and will generate fear over what may happen. This is usually applied through creating a plot twist. The typical ways in which these plot twists are developed might consist of editing such as jump cuts and shot reverse shot, added sound effects, plus a change in the plot that engages the audience. A clip that clearly shows a plot twist is the opening sequence to the film ' Halloween '. This is shown as the presumed killer is found out to be a child that would be seen as incapable of the murder seen in the clip. This is a prime example of a plot twist that would build upon the sense of surprise and engage the audience, proving to be very conventional to the thriller genre.
The final convention seen in the thriller genre is a shocking sense inflicted upon the audience. This is generally seen through a death or violence. Therefore mes en scene, particularly iconography such as knives or blood, has a large influence into its effect. This is seen in almost every thriller film and is generally seen in the focal point or large event within a piece. In addition to this other typical conventions may include; isolated setting, dark themes, a male antagonist and female victim, plus the frequent use of dark, gloomy sounds.
There were various ways in which my sequence conveyed these conventions. Firstly there was the use of a hidden identity on the antagonist. This was done by using a hooded jumper or coat to constantly hide the facial features of the antagonist, especially seen after the death of Carol, the protagonist. It adds to the suspense as we think about who he is and why he is pursuing the young girl. It also creates an enigma, keeping the audience engaged and adding to the mystery of the clip; mystery being a key convention to the thriller genre.
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The sequence also focuses upon the theme of death as the unidentified antagonist kills the innocent protagonist, a friend of the victim. This is emphasised through various forms of cinematography as the death is revealed. An example of this cinematography includes a high angle on the victim, this shows her to be innocent. It emphasises the fact that she did not deserve to die and builds fear over the dangerous antagonist, we become furthermore fearful for Brittany, the victim who is stalked by the antagonist. The focus on the dark theme of death adds to the sense of shock inflicted upon the audience which is highly orthodox to the genre.
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The death itself shows a plot twist within the sequence. As we see the victim and her friend together and happy we do not expect the friend to die. This plot twist is seen at the end of the sequence and sets up and enigma for the rest of the film. It mainly conveys the convention of surprise as the audience see a likable, innocent character die. It adds to the enigmatic theme of the film building up the sense of suspense and tension, forcing the viewers to want to watch on. This plot twist is extremely conventional to an opening sequence and, more importantly, conventional to the thriller genre.
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One other part of the plot seen to be conventional is the male and female antagonist and victim relationship. This is typically seen in many thriller films; the victim is made out to be an innocent girl shown to be vulnerable and the antagonist is shown to be a dominating male to add to the fear aspect of the film. Various micro elements have been used in order to develop these different character representations. For example a high angle is often used on the victim throughout the sequence to emphasise her innocence and vulnerability, opposed to a low angle used on the antagonist to portray the opposite. Also costume is used to show the teenage victim as being young and innocent, for example the light colours or the pyjamas seen in the first flashback scene. This is opposed to a darker hooded clothing worn by the antagonist showing his dark, sinister behaviour. This contrast in character representation is very conventional to the thriller genre as it helps build a relationship between the characters and the audience. They become fearful of the male antagonist and sympathise towards the female victim. This builds upon the conventions of shock, surprise and suspense as the antagonist pursues his victim.
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In addition to this, another scene that is highly conventional is the second scene. This consists of the antagonist obsessing over the female victims. This consists of various shots showing the antagonists lack of mental stability. For example he is seen smelling a scarf of the young female victim, plus he is seen aggressively highlighting and crossing out photos of his victims. The iconography of the scarf and the photos are all used to show his unstable mentality. Through doing this we inflict a sense of fear upon the audience as they fear for the young female victims. This builds upon the convention of suspense as the audience can sense something bad about to happen.
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Finally, another conventional scene is seen midway through the sequence. We included a shot showing the antagonist staring at a picture of one of the victims. This included an over the shoulder shot, zooming in on the victim. It furthermore shows the insanity of the antagonist, plus foreshadows the danger that the victim is in. It again portrays a sense of suspense and fear as the audience sympathise with the young female victim and sense the danger that she is in. It adds to the conventions within the sequence as this sense of fear and suspend is typically seen within the thriller genre.
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A successful thriller film of which my opening sequence could be compared to is the film 'Halloween'. By comparing the two opening sequence we can see various similarities between the plots and the micro elements used. They are both highly conventional to the thriller genre. One similarity between the two is the use of a hidden identity on the antagonist. This is done through a POV camera angles opposed to our use of costume however has the same effect. It adds to the enigma which is very conventional to the genre. There is also the use of a plot twist in both films; with the child being revealed as the antagonist in Halloween and the death of the protagonist in my opening sequence. This plot twist is typically in thriller films as it creates the essential conventions vital to the thriller genre. Through comparing my sequence to that of the successful and conventional 'Halloween' thriller film, I feel that I have been successful in demonstrating the conventions within the thriller genre in my opening sequence.
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