Studio Film

This is the finished product of the studio shoot.

Overall, I was somewhat unhappy with the final film for several reasons. I felt that although the plot for the film qas quite strong and had a lot of potential, I just don't think that it reached it at all. I think the film is a little bit flat and dull compared to what I intended it to be, and to be honest, what I should have achieved.

My biggest problem with the film, which is my own fault in a way, is the performance of the actors. It seemed that their best performances were during the rehearsals before the shoot itself. It had a low more flow and overall felt a lot more natural. The performances during the shoot, I feel, should have been stronger, and should have risen to another level. The girl especially should have had a lot more energy, considering her character was suppposed to be in incredible danger.

The pouring of the petrol should have been more over the top too. At the time, I was sceptical about having the studio floor covered in water, seeing as there were groups to film afterwards. But a lesson learnt from this is: Do anything to get the required shot.

The water could easily have been mopped up quickly, and I soon learnt that by just going for it, I would have got a much better shot.

However, there were some positives to take from the film. I was pleased with the shot composition, and the way they worked together. When the film was eventually edited (after our editor skipped town for a while), the producer and myself re-cut it, which I think improved it dramatically.

I think the mood and tone worked well. It could have been a bit stronger, and would have been with better performances. I was pleased with the sound. Rather (in)conveniently our sound designer went back to his home country the week the edit was due. Fortunately, my other specialism is sound, and so I was able to get my own way with the sound. I think that this happening was helpful in general, as I was able to get the exact sounds that I desired without having to rely on someone else.

As a result of this, I was able to create the low grumbles that I had wanted from the start, and I thought that the sound definitely brought the piece to life.

Things to consider for the next film:
Get better, bolder performances out of the actors.
Make sure that the continuity is improved - ensure there are enough cut aways to use in case any problems arise in post production.
Go all out to try and get the shots I want, instead of being cautious about simple matters.
Plan everything to a minute point. Ensure that everything is going to run smoothly, and have ideas ready if this is not the case.