During this task, I have learned that different directors use different styles to create an effective film. I have also learnt that there are different types of coming of age films, such as the more serious ones created by Jason Reitman, or the more light-hearted and comedic films created by John Hughes. When looking into the different types of films created by these directors, I discovered that within light-hearted films, lots of high key lighting and upbeat music is featured, which i will try to incorporate into my opening sequence.
Creative Task Three: Remake the opening of a Coming Of Age Film
For this task, we had to create the opening sequence of a film, so we chose The Perks Of Being A Wallflower.
Our Version
What went well?
During this creative task, I found that the lighting went well as it matched the real opening sequence. I also found that the voice over was very similar to the voice over done in the opening sequence, therefore it was more accurate.
Problems?
When creating this task, I found there to be a few problems with the shooting as there was an issue with trying to smoothly zoom on the camera without it seeming jumpy. However, When we shoot our final piece, we will find away around this problem, so that if we use a zoom, it will be smooth.
What have I learnt?
During this task, I learnt to recognize different shots. I also learnt that using an over the shoulder shot, and a track shot can be effective in telling the audience a story from the protagonist's view. When creating my opening sequence, I would like to use various angles and shots to create different effects, as well as using the lighting to create the right atmosphere.
For this task, we had to demonstrate match on action, shot/reverse shot and the 180 degree rule by filming and editing a character opening a door, crossing a room, sitting down opposite another character and exchanging a few lines of dialogue. This is the raw footage.
Edited Version
What have I learnt?
when creating this task, I learned that it is very important to plan out what we are doing by using a story board so that we can decide how many shots their needs to be. I also learned that when filming, it is important to follow the plan, as well as keep a steady hand and use the correct camera angles to create the right effect. When editing, I also learned that it is important to make the clips run smoothly together. This creates a more fluent scene.
During this research task, I have found lighting to be a key convention of Coming Of Age films as high key lighting can create a lighter happier atmosphere, Where as low key lighting can make an issue seem more serious. I have also found that the use of music in an opening scene can create different effects, therefore when making my opening sequence, I will make sure to chose the right music to create the right effect. The use of costume and setting is also important, as it can set the scene.
During this task, I have learnt who the major and minor film companies are. I have also learnt that paramount pictures is a big producer/distributor of Coming of age films as well a producing films that are family friendly, who's Age certificates ranged from U's to 18's. As well as this, Warner Brothers is also a large producer/distributor of Coming of Age films, who's age certificates are very similar to Paramount Pictures as they also produce family friendly films. I was also very surprised to see that most large film companies are based in America.
When editing our scene, we noticed that the audio went well as it fit perfectly over our scenes. As well as this, our videos ran fluidly into each other, creating a smooth transition from shot to shot. We also made sure that there was no diegetic music with the back ground that was not meant to be there, which was an improvement from our last creative task.
Problems?
When editing, we found it difficult to find out which shot fit where as we filmed each shot a few times to make sure they would run fluidly when putting them together and feature no mistakes.
What have I learnt?
During this task, I have developed my camera skills and learnt new camera angles and different techniques to make my shots run smoothly together, so that the audience doesn't know they have been shot at different times.
When creating our take two video, we retook some of the shots we originally created. This meant that we could correct any small mistakes we had such as missing out a prop. We also made sure that each video ran smoothly into each other.
Problems?
Although we corrected the mistakes that were made in the first video, there were still a few minor problems in take two. First of all we noticed someone standing in the back ground, as well as this, the sound and lighting were different in a few scenes. This is something we need to look out for when taking our final product as it can change a scene completely.
What have I learnt?
During this creative task, I learnt various camera angles. As well as this, I learnt how to spot mistakes and correct them so that my video has no flaws and runs smoothly.
For creative task one, we had to create a conversation using the 180 degree rule as well as a shot reverse shot. Our video features two students having a conversation about being late for media.
What went well?
Overall, the first shoot and edit went well with some minor changes to make. We have used various shots, including a shot reverse shot, a point of view shot, a zoom shot, as well as not breaking the 180 degree rule. We have also included a slow motion shot to add drama into the clip. Most of the clips also link smoothly together.
Problems:
When editing the film, we began to notices a few problems. The first problem we noticed was that within the first three shots, it was hard to notice which character had came down the stairs and looking at the watch. We then realised that the angle the book is dropped is different to when she was holding it, which looked unnatural. As well as this, around 30 seconds in, we noticed that we had added a cosmic sound affect which was not meant to be featured. At the end of clip, we also noticed that we had missed out on a prop. This is when he is running threw the hallway with no glasses on, but entering the hall with glasses on.
Solutions
To fix the problems, we plan to shoot a few more scenes and correct the mistakes we have made in order to make sure the clip runs smoothly and to make it clear to the audience who is where.
What have I learnt?
During this creative task, I have learnt different types of camera angles and what effect they can have. I have also learnt the importance of the 180 degree rule and that a shot reverse shot is an effective way of showing a conversation.
During the opening sequence, very little elements of the narrative are revealed. However, the use of costume within mise-en-scene can suggest that that the protagonist is an outsider which can also hint elements of the narrative. This is because the protagonist is shown wearing old and tattered clothes, suggesting that she is from a poor background. Using Todorov’s theory, the use of her clothing can sugge st that maybe the equilibrium is disrupted because she does not conform to the norm.
How is sound used?
Within the opening sequence, non-diagetic music is used. The lyrics also contain the words 'be my sweet honey bee' reveal that the film is likely to feature a young couple.
What text have you
seen?
The opening sequence of Juno includes lots of text such as
the main actors, directors, costume designers, producers and editors. However
some of the institutional information appears to be before the names of actors.
The font of the text is a bright and colorful hand written font to identify
the genre as Coming of Age. The use of the hand written font shows that the
genre is a Coming of Age film because it has connotations of school and teenage
years. As well as this, the use of
bright colors can create a feeling that the narrative will be happy, and also
very comical.
Who is the main audience?
By looking at the opening sequence, we get a feeling that
the main demographic of Juno is teenagers, particularly teenagers in between
15-19. This is because the main character Ellen Page appears to be in her mid-teens,
which can suggest that the narrative is based on issues within a teenager’s
life.
What institutional
information is used?
Within the opening sequence of Juno, we see various institutional information, starting with the production company 'fox searchlight pictures'. We then begin to see the production crew, such as the writer and the director etc.
Boyhood
Are there any elements of the narrative?
Within the opening sequence of the film Boyhood, a few
elements of the narrative are revealed. This is done in two ways, one being
font. The writing features a childlike handwriting font which reveals that the
narrative is about a child. As well as this, the first minute of the narrative
includes the main character, a school boy.
How is sound used?
Within the opening sequence a non-diagetic slow and calm
music is used. This could suggest that the narrative has touching and personal
moments. The first sequence also includes dialogue between the main character
and his mother. A teenager may watch this as they may identify with the conversation
that the protagonist has with his mother
What text have you seen?
As the scene begins, a child like handwriting font is featured. This is the main link to the narrative as it suggests the films main protagonist is a child. Apart from the film production company and title, the opening sequence does not feature any other text.
Who is the main audience?
By looking at the opening sequence, we learn that the main demographic of the film is teenagers, between 13 and 16, particularly boys. This is because the main character appears to be a young teenage schoolboy, which suggests that the narrative is based on school and the issues a teenage schoolboy may face. This is also reinforced by the title 'Boyhood' which suggests that the film is for boys.The theory of Uses and Gratifications suggest that people may watch a film because they can identify with the characters. In this case, young boys may watch this film because they can identify with the protagonist as they have experienced similar issues the narrative may explore.
What institutional information is used?
In the opening scene of boyhood, there is institutional that is mentioned, such as 'IFC Productions' and 'A Detour Film Production'. However apart from those, no other institutional information is shown.
Spider-Man
Are there any elements of the narrative?
Within the first two minutes of Spider-Man, there are very few hints of the narrative. However, an image is featured of a fist, which using Todorov's narrative theory, can hint that the equilibrium is disrupted by a possible fight. As well as this, Spiderwebs are used various times, which can suggest that a spider is a main feature of the narrative
How is sound used?
The opening sequence of Spider-Man includes non-diagetic music. The music featured builds suspense as the use of violins, cello's and other orchestral instruments creates a striking effect. This could suggest that there are elements of drama within the narrative. The music could also suggest a battle that is a disruption in the equilibrium.
What text have you seen?
Within the opening sequence, various text is featured. This includes institutional information, actors names, and the title of the film. The font used is a metallic bold font, which suggests that the film has elements of the future within it. This is because the use of metallic can suggest an advancement in technology.
Who is the main audience?
By looking at the opening sequence, it is not clear who the main demographic is. However we get the feeling that the film is for boys between 13 and 19. This is because there are elements of drama and suspense, as well as images that suggests a fight. The theory of Uses and gratifications can also suggest that people watch films as a form of escapism. In this case, viewers watch this film to escape from every day life.
what institutional information is used? The only piece of institutional information mentioned is 'Columbia Pictures' shown at the very beginning.
Super Bad
Are there any elements of the narrative?
Within the opening sequence very few elements of the narrative is revealed. The only element of the narrative that is revealed is the two main characters as two people are shown dancing within the first two minutes. The two main people also seem very friendly as they are dancing with each other, suggesting that the film is based around two friends. The plot of the film is centered around a party which can be established from the opening sequence as the boys are seen to be dancing which is generally associated with parties.
How is sound used?
The sound used within the first two minutes is a fast pasted non-diagetic music. The fast, lighthearted music suggests that there are humorous elements to the film. The sound track is a 'feel good' soundtrack and can also imply that the film is based on parties and being young.
What text have you seen?
The font of the text featured within the opening sequence is very simple. The simple font also creates a contrast with the bright colors. Lots of text is featured within the first minute including actors names, institutional information such as 'Columbia pictures' as well as the production company and other information such as editing, music and costume designers.
Who is the main audience?
After watching the opening sequence, we learn that the main demographic of the movie 'super bad' is teenagers, specifically males. This is because the film is based on two males who like to party. The theory of Uses and Gratifications suggests that people watch films as they can identify with the characters and situations. In this case, teenage boys watch this film because they identify themselves as these boys.
Clueless
Are there any elements of the narrative?
During the opening sequence of 'Clueless', many aspects of the narrative are revealed. First of all, we see clips of teenage girls shopping, which suggests that the film is based on stereotypical teenagers. This is then reinforced when we see a group of teenagers together enjoying the summer. This could suggest the film is based on typical youth and their social lives. In this opening scene we are also instantly introduced to the characters which tells us that the films narrative is based on teenagers girls.
How is sound used?
The opening scene features a non-diagetic upbeat song which describes the classic american youth of stereo typical in america. As well as this, the use of dialogue is introduced when a main character explains how she has a 'normal life for a teenager'. This is ironic as she does not appear to have a normal life.
What text have you seen?
The film has a very brief introduction with the 'Paramount' logo appearing simultaneously with the soundtrack, Which is followed by the films title in colorful letters and a pop up style font. The font and colors have been used to grab the audiences attention. However none of the actors names are mentioned within the opening scene.
Who is the main audience?
The opening sequence immediately determines that the main demographic is teenage girls. This is shown by the use of stereotypical teenage girls. The theory of Uses and Gratifications also implies that girls would watch this film as they can identify with the characters.
What institutional information is used?
The only institutional information shown is 'paramount pictures', as there is very little text in the first few minutes.
Dazed and Confused
Are there any elements of the narrative?
Within the opening sequence, a few elements of the narrative are revealed. First of all, we see the use of drugs, suggesting that the film explores the use of illegal substances that is common in youths due to the rise in peer pressure. As well as this, there are scenes of groups of teenagers suggesting that the narrative is based around teenagers.
How is sound used?
The non-diagetic music used is the genre modern rock. This genre reflects the nature of its film and the characters in it. This is because the modern rock genre is that of a rebellious nature and a carefree attitude.
What text have you seen?
The text color used is white, which has connotations of innocence and purity. However, because of the films narrative we know this color is used in an ironic way to imply that the teenagers have lost their innocence.
Who is the main audience?
Within the opening sequence, the main demographic becomes clear to us. This is because we see various groups of teenagers at high school, implying that the main demographic is male and female teenagers.
An Education
Are there any elements of the narrative?
Within the opening sequence, a few elements of the narrative are revealed. First of all, the first shot introduces the idea of children and young people by the use of an animated hop-scotch, which has connotations of school. A group of school girls are also shown balancing books on their head, dancing and cooking. This suggests that the school is not an average school, which could imply that the narrative is based on a private girls school. The main characters are also introduced briefly within the opening scene, suggesting that the narrative is based around the lives of the girls.
How is sound used?
The non-diagetic music featured in the opening scene is very fast pasted and comical which can suggest that there are humorous elements to the film.
What text have you seen?
The text shown on the opening scene appears to be simple but bold. The white writing is particularly effective as it stands out against the black background. The writing featured includes the production company, actors names as well as names of others included in making the film such as costume designers.
Who is the main audience?
The main demographic of this movie appears to be female teenagers. This is due to narrative being based on a school of girls. The theory of uses and gratifications can also suggest that woman may watch this movie as they can identify with the characters or situation.
What institutional information is used? There is various institutional information shown in the opening, such as 'BBC Films presents' and 'A Finola Dwyer Productions'.
Forest Gump
Are there any elements of the narrative?
Within the opening scene of the film, there are very few elements of the narrative. However, the main character is established. We can also establish that the main character has a passion for nature as he catches a feather and puts it in his bag. The main character also carries a children's book, suggesting that he has a childish nature. This can also be a hint to the narrative.
How is the sound used?
The only sound used within the opening sequence is a non-diagetic music. The music is slow, and free, just like the feather. The music can also suggest that something out of the ordinary will happen within the narrative.
What text have you seen?
The text used in the opening scene is very simple, as this effectively stands out. The first text featured is the production company, followed by the main actors name. This then leads onto the title of the film, followed by the actors names.
Who is the main audience?
By watching the opening sequence, we cannot establish who the main demographic is, However Gump's hinted childlike nature can imply that the film is aimed at teenagers.
GirlFight
Are there any elements of the narrative?
During the opening sequence, a main element of the narrative is revealed. The scene goes straight into action when the two girls fight. This suggests that the narrative is full of drama. As well as this, the main character is also introduced in the first scene, and is portrayed as strong.
How is sound used?
As the scene begins, a very fast paced non-diagetic music is used to create suspense. This automatically draws the reader as it leaves them wondering what is about to happen. The scene then cuts into a dialogue between two friends. Their tone of voice appears to be threatening, suggesting that the narrative consists of many fights and threatening moments.
What text have you seen?
During the opening sequence, there is no text featured. However, the title of the film is bold and stands out, which can be very appealing to the audience. The title also appears to be in white, which can connote innocence, although we can see from the scene ahead that the main character is not innocent.
Who is the main audience?
The main audience of the movie appears to be teenagers as the protagonist is a teenager in highschool. The theory of uses and gratifications also suggests that people watch films as they can identify with the character. In this case, girls may be able to identify with the character as she appears to be troubled and results in violence, which is common within troubled teenagers.
What instiutional information is used?
Within the opening sequence, no institutional information is used.
What have I learnt?
As I analysised each opening sequence, I have learnt that font and colour of text can be very important in portraying what type of movie it is. As well as this, Hinting a few elements of the narrative is also important as it draws the audience as they are intreaged to find out more. Music is also a very important aspect of an opening sequence as it can give the audience an insight into the personality of the main character.
