Filming Schedule 2

Our group have spoken to each there through text messaging and we have decided to film on the 2nd January 2015. Also when we return to school we want to begin editing so we want all filming complete.

Date & Timing

02-01-2015:On Friday we will be filming the chase scene. We will begin filming at 11:00 AM and finish 4:00 PM this will give us 5 hours to film the whole chase scene. Also this time we will begin filming at exactly 11:00 AM as we will hopefully have no more camera battery problems because we will use Kayleigh's camera. Also we will need to re-shoot a few shots which we did on the 28-12-2014.

Problems

Again, because we are filming in the Winter season, problems caused by the weather may occur. Also because we want to re-shoot certain shots, the environment and the surroundings may change, for example cars maybe parked in the spaces we were filming in and this will ruin the continuity. 

Filming: Day 1

Introduction
We all decided to meet up at 11:00 AM to complete our first filming session, however we didn't actually begin filming until 12:00 AM, as there were issues.

Equipment, Costume & Make-Up

For costume and make-up Amy arrived at Amber's house before filming times to have her make-up done and also to change into her outfit for the opening scene. Also for equipment, Amber was offered a high quality camera, however by the time it was collected, it was 11:30 AM and so 30 minutes of the filming time had already gone. Also other equipment that we had available was Kayleighs camera, which we eventually had to use because of camera battery problems. And other equipment involved a adjustable tripod which we used to get a range of camera shots, keep the camera steady and get different camera heights.

Problems Encountered

Location Change

The Elevator and Stairs at the new Location.

When we arrived at the original location we encountered some problems. We saw that there were many security cameras which were high up on the buildings which we noticed and that the stairs had now become blocked off with barriers. The stairs was very necessary for the opening scene as they lead to a car park up above on top of the roof. Also this area was very icy and an obvious danger was that when the chase scene begins, one of the actors could seriously hurt themselves. The next step was to find a new location, which did not take as long as expected and we choose a underground garage situated on Denmark Street.

This is the entrance to the Car Park

This new location has both benefits and drawbacks. Benefits of this location include that there is both natural and artificial lighting this helps create two different atmospheres. Inside there is very limited artificial lighting which helps create a mysterious element and that outside there is a lot of natural light which makes the mood completely different from inside. Another benefit is that this location offers many places to film, for example underneath the building there is an elevator and stairs which lead to the ground floor. Also there are stairs which go up to the side of the building to a balcony which could be used to make the characters seem both vulnerable or powerful. Another benefit is that the building doesn't look out of place and fits in well with the genre of spy thriller as there is metal gates and fencing surrounding the building which help relates to the conventions of the genre. However this location does have large drawbacks as when we begun filming we realized that the area had frequently passing people in the car park which makes it difficult to film and very frustrating for the person currently filming. Also another large drawback is that because there are many people passing by that means the car parked in there spots are always changing and this ruins the continuity of the film which makes the film look very unprofessional.

  

Camera Battery

We took turns filming

When filming, we encountered an issue with the camera we were using, as it had very limited charge and we couldn't use the camera to film. Kayleigh had brought a second camera to take pictures for evidence so instead we used her camera to film and we used our mobile phones to take pictures for evidence. However even though we had a camera with charge we were unable to record on Kayleigh's camera as she hadn't ever used the filming feature and wasn't familiar with it. But we soon figured the film feature out and begun to start filming. Even though we originally wanted to start filming at 11:00, the problems set us back a whole hour and so we actually started filming at 12:00. Also Kayleigh's camera ran out of charge at 3:00 so we were forced to stop filming.

The Public

With the new location we chose, there was a lot of people passing by which made it difficult to film as we had to keep stopping as people were passing by and were in the way of us filming. This caused the filming speed to decrease and the amount of film we had complete was not as much as I would of hoped for. 

Moodboard

This mood board shows the themes in which my group are trying to create. The themes and elements help create a sense that this is a spy thriller film and parts of the mood board show different camera shots including close ups and low and high angle shots. Also the location is shown which is urban streets which we will be filming in, however the exact location isn't shown. Chase scene shots are shown including a two shot showing the protagonist and antagonist.

This Moodboard  shows elements and themes that we want to include in our sequence. Also it includes genre conventions of Spy Thriller films.

Filming Schedule 1

Our group have spoken to each other through text messaging and we have decided on which times and days to film on. We would like to complete all filming as soon as possible as we want to move onto editing the final sequence so we can make the sequence look sleek and professional. Also we intend to begin editing when we return back to school.

Date & Timing

28-12-2014: On Sunday 28th we will be filming the flash forward scene. We will begin filming at 11:00 AM and finish at 4:00 PM, this will give us 5 hours to film the whole flash forward scene. However if we don't manage to finish filming the scene we will continue the following day.

29-12-2014: On Monday 29th we will be filming the normality scene. We will again begin filming at 11:00 AM and finish at 4:00 PM, this will give us 5 hours to film the entire normality scene. 

Problems

We are filming in the Winter season, so many problems may interrupt our filming times. We may have to re-schedule filming as the weather may make it difficult for us. For example if we were filming the flash forward scene on a day where it is raining and then finished on the following day where the weather is not the same this will show a difference when we come to watch the sequence and there will be no continuity which I believe is important.

Camera Practice

Our group have decided to practice some of the camera shots which we wish to include into our final sequence. This has developed our camera skills and knowledge of how to use the cameras in the filming process. The shots which we had filmed were inspired by previous A-Level years and big blockbuster films, for example James Bond.

Practice Camera Shots
In order to complete the types of shots we wanted we had to film several types of shots with different people and we then edited them to create the effect we wanted. We edited the clips of film on Final Cut Pro on the Macs and then uploaded the video.

How this will help us?

This will help us because the types of shots we have practiced, we would like to involve in our final sequence. Also practicing these shots will help us consider which would look the best in our final sequence and how difficult they our to shoot. Furthermore some of these shots have been edited to create a dramatic field to them. 

Below is Camera Practice we may consider to include in our final sequence:

Chase Scene: Analysis

I have chosen the the film, Captain America: The Winter Soldier because even though this film is not a spy-thriller, it contains many spy elements which can be used in our sequence, Also this film has many chase scenes involved and each has a unique way of showing the situation to the audience. However I have chosen this chase scene as I believe this offers the most variety of content on chase scenes which we would be able to adapt to our sequence.

0:09: The audience are aware that the agent has been injured, and that the enemy has surrounded him which shows he is in serious danger. This makes the audience wonder if the agent will be able to escape. We may use this in our sequence for the end of the flash forward because this is dramatic and helps create a connection between the hero and the audience, because the audience wants to know what happens next and to see if the hero survives.

0:23: This shows the police are present at the scene but the audience knows that these police officers are corrupt. Also having the police in a film is a convention of a spy thriller, because there often work with secret agents. A mid body shot has been used here and this works well as the police officer is exiting his vehicles and then we can see what clothing he is wearing to see how much authority he has. 

0:26: This angle shows that the hero is surrounded and that there is no obvious way out of the situation. Also the props being used by the police officers show that weapons like machine guns are used, this is again a convention of a spy thriller. We may use a weapon in our sequence to help us create a effective chase scene and to meet spy thriller conventions.

0:44: The non-diagetic sound which was fast paced now becomes softer and quieter as this helps direct the full attention of the audience to what is now being revealed on screen. This shows a large device and the audience are now aware that the hero is in even more danger, This could be used for our sequence to show that a larger danger is present and we can use the sound to help enhance this.

1:54: The sound becomes very fast-paced and dramatic this helps create tension for the audience. This tells the audience that the chase scene has begun and that the hero is being pursued by the enemy. This could be used in our sequence, however in this clip cars are used whereas our chase scene will involve people running on foot. But the concept is still the same.

2:03: Close up shots are used throughout the chase scene and help show the characters state of injury and what emotions they are currently feeling. Also even though this is a close up part of the characters costume can still be seen and this shows that he is wearing mainly dark coloured clothing, which is another convention of spy thriller films and can easily be applied into our own sequence.

2:08: Shots which show the enemy and the hero are also used this helps show the situation that the hero is in and how close the danger is. This can be used for our sequence with the protagonist in the foreground and the antagonist in the background chasing the hero.

2:41: A low angle shot of the enemy has been used, this helps make them seem more powerful and intimidating to the audience. This could be used right at the end of the flash forward to make the audience think that the antagonist has won whereas the protagonist has lost. Also this is set in an urban street in the city which both potential locations for the chase scene are. 

This will be useful as we can use knowledge learnt about chase scenes and use it within our own chase scene. Also the more information on chase scenes the more effective and dramatic our chase scene will be if we can apply the knowledge well. 

Talent Release Forms

For our film, we have decided to have two actors within the opening scene. In order to have the actors present within the film they had to complete a Talent Release form which then gives us permission to have footage of them onto the internet. 

Below are the Talent Release forms for our actors:

Amy Doohan - Protagonist
Paul Taylor - Antagonist

Character Profile

Introduction

I decided to complete a character profile because it will help us identify more of the characters personality. Within our group we decided on who to play the antagonist's role, and we chose Paul who is a Year 13 student. He has a confident personality and has offered to take on any roles for our opening scene.

Antagonist
Name: Agent Logan
Age: 22
Gender: Male
Nationality: British
Ethnicity: White
ABC: A
Occupation: Agent for the Terrorist Organisation
Marital Status: Single
Religion: Atheist
Eyes: Green
Hair: Blonde

Actors Qualities
- Confident: The actor has be confident in order to play the role as a antagonist, as they have to be able to act in front of the camera.
- Focused: The actor has to be very focused as they need to know what dialogue and actions they need to do, for there role.
- Listening Skills: The actor has very good listening skills, as we will need to inform the actor what they need to do for each scene so they will need to listen closely, in order to create the best results.
- Works well in a Team: The actor needs to work well in a team as there will be three people filming and directing and also there will be other actors he will have to work well with.

Psychographics
Agent Logan is a deceitful person and is working for a terrorist organisation but still working for a corrupt British government. However he is very independent and prefers to work by himself as he has highly advanced skills and wishes to use them to encourage fear into people. He often wears black clothing which helps him camouflage into the darkness and sometimes wears masks to help keep his identity a secret. He is trained to use a variety of weapons from the simple pistol to an advanced machine gun. Also he has great determination and shows highly consistent results in his missions and tasks.

Opening Title Sequence Analysis: Quantum of Solace

0:05: In this extreme long shot, a white sun which quickly transforms to a average sun blazing with fire, however James Bond’s figure is presented and this could mean that he is part of the fire, which is associated with power, passion and action. These are characteristics that secret agents possess; this conforms to the genre convention of spy film. Also there is low key lighting, as when James Bond is standing in front of the light, there is back lighting which helps hide his identity this again helps support the theory that James Bond is part of the fire. Also the non-diegetic sound of a soundtrack, by Alicia Keys and Jack White, which is called Another way to Die. This sound is fast-paced and loud, this creates a dramatic entrance for the opening title sequence, and helps create excitement for the viewer.

0:15: In this close-up shot of James Bond’s face with low key lighting, it gives the impression that he is trying to hide in the shadows and keep his identity secret, which links to the genre convention of spy films. The white text is also used as it represents light and goodness which suggests who the protagonist is. Also the type of font of the text used has slight cuts in the lettering which don’t quite join up, this could symbolically mean that there is corruption in some places in the world, and that the world no longer fully functions.

0:30: In this extreme long shot, there is low key lighting as there are silhouettes; these shadows suggest to the audience that film contains elements of mystery and secrecy. However the time of day appears to be night. Plus the non-diegetic sound which is calm matches the settings of a desert. Also the desert is lifeless and very quiet, so the sound matches the environment which is empathetic sound. The extreme long shot of the desert could have been used by the director, Marc Forster so that the environment is recognisable for the viewer. Plus the meaning of this could suggest this is the main setting where a significant event happens in the movie. There is also white text which again represents light and goodness, and the colours in this extreme long shot are deep oranges which represent joy, enthusiasm and determination and this can be associated with the protagonist’s feelings.

1:05: In this long shot, a woman is presented to the viewer. However there is low key lighting and the woman creates a silhouette over the desert, which the director could intend to make the viewer think that she is a villain and could be a danger to James Bond. Furthermore the identity of the woman isn’t revealed which could suggest that she has characteristics similar to James Bond which means that she possesses dangerous skills and could use them against the protagonist. There is non-diegetic sound of a soundtrack playing in the background called Another way to Die by Alicia Keys and Jack White. The non-diegetic sound becomes slower and deeper, which supports the idea that the woman is a threat, as the music becomes more intimidating.

2:08: In this extreme long shot and wide shot, it shows all the action happening in this shot. Also there is low key lighting, as there are still parts in the frame which are clouded from shadows created by the lighting. Plus the non-diegetic sound of the soundtrack is fast-paced and loud, this creates tension and suspense for the viewer, making them feel alert and focused on what’s happening in the shot. The extreme long shot also makes James Bond look weak and vulnerable as he appears small. Plus the director could have intended for the woman to appear significantly bigger which makes her appear more powerful and seems that she has control over James Bond. Furthermore the same woman is repeated around in a circle around the protagonist, which can suggest that the woman, who appears desirable and attractive in the opening titles, could have lured James Bond with her looks to trap him in so she has power over him. Plus this challenges the genre convention as the woman has the power instead of the man. The colours in this extreme long shot show help the viewer determine which characters are the heroes and villains as the colours surrounding James Bond are white which represent goodness but the colours nearer to the woman turn darker which represents danger and death.

2:32: In this long shot and birds eye shot, is shows James Bond falling into a black hole, this could suggest that he falls into a trap later in the film and the director could have intended this to be foreshadowing later events in the film. A wide shot and long shot has been used because it shows how small he is and how big the trap is. This helps empathize the danger that James Bond could be in. Also the music is non-diegetic, but the sound is calm and this could mean the trap is simple and comes later in the film. Plus the low key lighting, which connotes as whole frame becomes shrouded in darkness, this could symbolize death which could be the danger for James Bond.

2:40: In this long shot, James Bond performs some action rolls, which suggests that the film contains action and violence. The low key lighting helps hide James Bonds identity, but the viewer knows he is the protagonist in the film. The director, Marc Forster makes links to the genre convention in this shot, as there is action roles performed from a spy which is a convention for spy thriller.

2:45: There is low key lighting in this shot, however it is clear to the viewer that James Bond is outside, but this could signify that the shot he has fired could symbolize a dark day for James Bond. However an alternate meaning could suggest this is what time of day the shot is fired in the film, which foreshadows the following events of the film. The close up of the prop and James Bond’s hand on the trigger makes the audience feel tense and excited. The director also makes links to the genres conventions in this shot, as the typical one gun shot and the type of weapon used is a convention for spy thrillers. Plus there is diegetic sound of the gun shot being fired, and non-diegetic sound in the background that gets faster as the bullet gets close to its target. This helps build up suspense for the viewer making them more excited and creating tension.

2:55: As the bullet is in mid-air and hurdling towards its target, the setting in this shot is of a desert. This maybe the director’s intention to foreshadow where the final showdown will happen between the protagonist and the antagonist. Also this shows a convention of thriller and spy thrillers, as there is a showdown between villain and hero, which is often an element in thrillers. This has a convention of spy thrillers as well, because the prop which James Bond is holding is a typical weapon, which is a pistol used in spy thrillers, also the outfit which he is wearing is a costume that most characters wear in spy thrillers films. After the bullet has been fired, James Bond becomes unrecognisable, this could mean that he is forgotten and there is no trace of him firing that one fatal bullet that seems to be recurring elements in this opening title. The colours in this shot help empathize the environment where James Bond is in, as the oranges in the background help show the hills and the sand.

3:06: The bullet that impacts the sand, suggests that one fatal bullet will have a dramatic effect in the world, however the viewer isn't sure whether that bullet will make a positive or negative effect to the world.

3:09: The darkness follows after bullet suggests darkness and death, however the director could mean this to be the antagonists death in the movie meaning that the protagonists succeeds and this can be seen as foreshadowing the upcoming events of the film. Plus the music following this shot is non-diegetic sound, however as the darkness takes over the entire frame, the music becomes calm and almost silent. This could mean all the chaos is over and peace has been restored in the world.  

Responding to Feedback

Updating Information

Feedback given by my Media Teachers are located in the comment sections of each post. I have updated my posts by including additional information, advised by my teachers. However below is the updated information, showing I have answered questions which refer to specific posts.

Introduction Feedback

What made you decide on this specific sub-genre of Thriller?

We decided to pick a specific sub-genre of Thriller which was Spy Thriller. We chose this because everyone in our group was familiar with existing spy thriller films. This was the best choice as we will have knowledge in what these films contain.

Representation Feedback

How has this research helped you in planning for your coursework?

This research has helped me as I am now familiar with the typical characters that are contained in spy thriller films. Also it has made me realise that Vladimir Propp's theory can be easily applied to a large range of movies and not just a limited amount. Even though there are typical characters like the hero and villain there are also some minor characters which help films look more realistic.

Preliminary Task: The Sequence Feedback

Jamie, are you pleased with your final version? Why? Is there anything that you would have done differently? Try to evaluate and be reflective when thinking about your Preliminary Task.

I am pleased with my final version of the preliminary task, even though we had to improvise as the equipment we had limited us in some shots.

Flashback's

Flashback scenes are connected to the main story line of the films and sometimes have a necessary part within the film. Also flashbacks often show the memory of main characters and give the audience some knowledge in the characters history.

Flashback scenes can range from different lengths in films, sometimes they can be just last 10 seconds which helps create an enigma for the audience. However they can last up to 10 minutes, showing in depth history of the past in the film.

When editing several things can be done to make a scene look more like a flashback. A black and white filter can be added which helps make the scene look old and from the past. However this is a obvious and over used way of making a scene looking like a flashback. But another way of making a scene look like a flashback is adding a blur which helps manipulate the scene to look different and not from the present day.

Below are some examples of flashbacks in movies. However even though all of the clips below are not taken out of films with the same genre as our film, this will still be very useful.

Tron Legacy

This clip has been taken from the film, Tron Legacy. A flashback is shown by having the characters appear different, for example them looking younger which is shown in this clip. However this may not be applied to our opening scene as it would require top skills in make up to make someone appear younger. Also a voice over has recorded and played over the flashback in this clip telling a story of the past. This could be done in our own sequence and would help define the flashback more to the audience.

Twilight: Eclipse

This clip has been taken from the film, Eclipse from the Twilight Saga. A flashback is shown by having the flashback surroundings from a different time and all the people are wearing clothes from a older time. This could be done in our sequence however we want to have a flash forward which will make it appear that the events are in the future. However the character could wear different clothes in the flash forward compared to the normality scene making them look of two different times. Also the time of day can be used to show its of different times making it clear to the audience that a flash forward or flashback has been used. We will try to adopt this idea into our sequence to make it more of a successful flashback.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone

This clip has been taken for Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. A flashback is shown by having a voice over added to the flashback, which is commonly done throughout flashbacks. Also the actually words being spoken are specific, hinting to the audience that it is a flashback. Also when the flashback is shown there is a slight slow motion action which has been included, this could help separate the present from the past. This can be used in our sequence when we come to create a flash forward.

Assigned Roles: Storyboard

Introduction
In our Media lessons we decided to complete a storyboard which will help us imagine and plan the opening scene. This will aid us when filming and will give us a clearer idea of how the opening scene will be filmed.
We all completed the storyboard and to do this we decided to split the opening scene into three sections, in which each group member could complete independently and then share after completion.

Jamie (Me): Searching Scene
I was focusing on the Searching scene. This scene was the beginning scene and shows Agent Boyer searching for files which contain a code. She is then approached by a man from behind called Agent Logan, who is the antagonist. After this a chase scene begins.

Amber: Chase Scene
Amber focused on the chase scene and her storyboard continued from mine in which more details are shown about the chase scene. However a different location is shown as the setting turns from a interior set to exterior.

Kayleigh: Present Day Scene
Kayleigh focused on the scene where Agent Boyer returns from the flash forward and back to the present day, this is then revealed to the audience that a flash forward had occurred and Agent Boyer is in a different location which will help make flash forward clearer.

This is my Storyboard I have completed.

Assigned Roles: Location

Interior Setting - The Search Scene

Location 1: Create a Location

I have chosen to potential make a location because for this scene, we need a room which there are many filing cabinets like an archive room, however I have found that this is very hard to find is my area. So instead, we could collect equipment and make ourselves a small set, perhaps inside one of our group members houses to film this scene.

Exterior Setting - The Chase Scene

Location 1: Station House Garage

I have chosen this as a potential location because the building looks intimating to the audience, as if it has authority. Also it would look appropriate if the main protagonist was indeed searching for codes inside the building, but we will have the code searching scene in another location and will edit scenes together to make it appear that the two locations are actually one. However the garage is located underneath the building and is not accessible to the public, so we would need permission from the owners or managers of the building to use the garage. But if we were allowed access this would be a ideal location as the garage is dark and has a feeling of isolation. Also there is a vast space underneath the building which would allow for a chase to occur. 

Location 2: Back of Altrincham Garage
I have chosen this as a potential location because this location has hardly any people who are present in this location. This will be easier when filming because when the chase scene is occurring, people wont interfere and block the camera's view of the characters. Also this location features some access stairs which can be used when the chase is in action. Also this location has elements which make it look like a spy thriller film's location. For example there is fencing around the location which makes it look more isolated and more intimidating to the audience. Also there is stairs which are attached to a modern looking building, and many spy thriller films use stairs in there chase scenes. Therefore this would be matching the genre conventions. This location includes a car park as well, which is located on top of the building. We could also take advantage of this for our chase scene to make the whole scene more dramatic and intense, as the car park is high up in the air and would give the audience the idea of being lost. However with this location, there is no cover from heavy rain, so we would have to ensure that we film on days when there is no rain.

Exterior Setting - The Street Scene

Location 1: Market Street & High Street in Altrincham

I have chosen this as a potential location because the previous scenes are flash forwards and this scene is the present day, so in order to separate this two types of scenes I have chosen a completely different type of location. The scene which we want to film, has to be as if someone is watching the protagonist and this location will help these types of shots work well, as there are cars which are parked and brick walls at the side of pathways. However this location does not look like an urban area, which spy thrillers are normally set in, so this wouldn't meet the genre conventions.

Location 2: Altrincham Train Station

I have chosen this as a potential location because this location still looks like it is in an urban area, so it meets the genre conventions. Also there are bridges which cross over the train tracks, and this would be ideal for the shots which we want to film for the present day scene, because we would like this scene to involve someone watching the protagonist and the bridges would help enhance these shots. However with this location there will be many people present, especially at peak times, so if we were to use this as a location, we would have to film at specific times on specific days.

Assigned Roles: Lighting

High Key Lighting

High Key Lighting is very powerful and bright lighting and helps reduce the amount contrast. Also High Key lighting helps create the illusion of happiness.

3 Point Lighting

Three Point Lighting includes the following:

- Key Light

Key Lighting is a part of 3 Point Lighting. This is the strongest lighting out of the three. Also this part of the lighting normally has the most impact and is positioned at one side of the camera facing the character or subject.

- Fill Light

Fill Lighting is a part of 3 Point Lighting. This is the second part out of the 3. Also this part of lighting is softer than and not as powerful as the key lighting and is positioned on the opposite side of the key lighting. So there will be key and fill lighting either side of the camera.

- Back Light

Back Lighting is a part of 3 Point Lighting. This is the third part out of the 3. Also this part of lighting provides direct light from behind the character or subject and helps separate the character from his or hers surroundings. This is positioned behind and projects light from the rear. 

Back Lighting

Back lighting helps illuminates the character from the rear. Also it creates a silhouette and separates the surroundings from the character or subject.

Chiaroscuro

Chiaroscuro helps create the separation between light and dark areas.

Natural Lighting

Natural Lighting cannot be reproduced with the use of technology and is given off by the sun.

Artificial Lighting

Artificial Lighting is the opposite from natural lighting and uses technology and not the sun to create light. Artificial Lighting can be created from as simple as a table lamp.

Tungsten Lighting

Tungsten Lighting is very expensive to use and is used often by photographers when taking high quality professional photos.

Assigned Roles: Camera Shots, Movements & Angles

Camera Movements

Pan

A Pan shot is a camera movements which shows a scene horizontally. The camera is often placed on a tripod and operates from a point and is turned left or right depending on what is wanted to be shown. A pan shot often follows a moving object, which is normally a character. 

Tilt

A Tilt shot is a camera movement which shows a scene vertically and is often placed on a tripod and operates from a point and is tilted upwards or downwards depending on what's being shown.

Dolly Shot

A Dolly shot is a camera movement which is often known as a tracking shot. The camera is placed on a vehicle or a moving object with wheels. A tracking shot often follows a character or a object, for example a car.

Handheld Shot

The handheld shot is a camera shot. This is used to show the characters point of view and is showing what the character is viewing. Different types of equipment can make different effects, for example a smooth shot can be done by a Steadicam.

Crane Shot

The Crane shot is a camera movement which is a alternate piece of terminology for tracking shot in the air. The Crane is a heavy and expensive piece of equipment to use. However it is a good way of getting a tracking shot from high up. The Crane shot can have different ways of movement for the shot, vertical, horizontal, upwards and downwards.

Zoom Lenses

A Zoom Lenses is a camera movement and is used to change the magnification of the image. On a camera that is stationary this allows a close up shot to be taken while there is still a large amount of distance between.

The Aerial Shot

A Aerial Shot is a camera movement and is taken by using a helicopter or a crane. This is often used at the beginning of films and helps show the location to the audience.

Camera Shots

Extreme Long Shot

An extreme long shot is a camera shot. Also this is known as a establishing shot and is used to show the audience the location.

Long Shot
A Long shot is a camera shot, this shows the whole character from bottom to top and helps let the audience view all the characters clothing and any actions that they are performing. Also it shows some of the location to the audience.

Medium Shot

A medium shot is a camera shot, this shows part of the character from the waist upwards. This also shows the audience part of the character’s facial and body expressions.

Close-up Shot

A close up shot is a camera shot, this shows the characters facial expressions and allows the audience to feel more connected with the characters emotions. However the audience will not be able to see the location.

Extreme Close-up Shot
A extreme close up is a camera shot, this shows a certain part of the characters face, for example an eye or the mouth. Also the facial expressions will be seen clearly for the audience.

Very Wide Shot 

A very wide shot is a camera shot which shows the location from a very long distance and sometimes has a point of empathises.

Wide Shot

A wide shot is a camera shot which shows the location and normally has a point of empathises. Also a lot of the background is shown from long distances.

Two Shot
A two shot is a camera shot, this shows two characters, often from the waist upwards. This shows part of the location and shows the facial expressions and part of there body language of the two characters.

Over the Shoulder Shot

The over the shoulder is a camera shot, this shows part of the characters shoulder and head and helps show the audience what the character is looking at in there point of view.

Point of View Shot

A point of view shot is a camera shot, this shows what the character see’s from their point of view.

Camera Angles

Low Angle Shot

A low angle shot is taken from below and the camera looks up at the character. This makes the character appear powerful and in control. Also it makes the character appear to have strength and can look somewhat intimidating to the audience.

High Angle Shot

A high Angle shot is taken from above and the camera looks down at the character. This makes the character appear weak and vulnerable. Also this shot can make the audience feel sympathy for the character as they appear smaller.

Dutch Tilt Shot

A dutch tilt shot can show a character or object from a unnatural point of view. This can help create confusion for the audience.

Eye Level Shot

A Eye Level shot is taken directly looking at the character, this makes the character appear that he or she has a balanced amount of power. Also it makes the audience feel more comfortable as it is more realistic, because it is what point of view they would likely see if they were having a conservation with the character.

Planning: Assigned Roles

Introduction

Before our film, we decided to assign roles for different elements of our film, for example lighting, sound, font and locations. This is because it will speed up the process of completing our film planning, so we are ready to start the official filming.

Jamie: Locations and Font.

I was chosen to research font as I have completed GCSE Graphics and have a creative personality which will help when selecting font types which are suitable for Spy Thriller films and can fit in with our film. Also I was chosen to do Locations, as I am familiar with the local and surrounding areas. Furthermore I know the narrative very well  and this will help, as I can then pick the correct location for different parts of the film which are suitable.

Amber: Sound, Costume / Make-up.

We believe that Amber would be suitable for researching information on Costume / Make-up as one of her other AS-Level subjects is Textiles and she completed this subject at GCSE and we believe that this would be the best person to appoint this particular topic of research to. We also chose Amber to research sound as she has done Media Studies at GCSE and has knowledge of sound terminology.

Kayleigh: Props, Filming Equipment.

We believe that Kayleigh would be suitable for researching information on Filming Equipment as she has experience with higher end cameras, as she owns one herself and will be familiar with the functions and features of the equipment. Also she wanted chosen to research props, as she has knowledge of what props certain characters use as Kayleigh has watched many Spy Thrillers, especially James Bond films.

Whole Group: Storyboard, Lighting, Camera Shots, Angles and Movements.

We decided to all complete the storyboard, lighting and camera shots, angles and movements. This is because we believe that these are key and essential elements that could potential make our film look professional, so we think that having plenty of group ideas on these topics will help make our film look like a spy thriller.

Planning: Film Idea Updated

After the Questionnaire and Focus Group we realised that our original opening scene and synopsis had some flaws which our Focus Group noticed. Below is an updated Film Synopsis and Opening Scene which we have improved.

The Updated Synopsis

The Protagonist in the film, Agent Boyer is set a mission by the British Government to obtain a weapon which is a threat to the world. Agent Boyer needs to obtain this world threatening weapon before it is activated and unleashes chaos into the world.

The Updated Opening Scene Idea

In the opening scene there will be a flash forward. Agent Boyer will be present in the opening scene and is searching for a weapon in a dark, sinister room. But Agent Boyer is unaware that a man is approaching her from behind. The man then says '' I wouldn't do that if I was you''. She then turns around and hits him. She then runs away from the room she was in and then a chase scene begins as the man is affected by the hit and chases her. The sequence then returns to normality and then Agent Boyer is walking in a street in a urban area, but the audience will be viewing her as if someone is stalking her.

Character: Secret Agent

Introduction

I have chosen to study secret agents. This is because secrets agents are going to be our protagonist in our film and we will need more extensive knowledge on this type of character. Also we want to make our protagonist look and act like a secret agent. I have chosen 6 types of secret agents which are all quite well known, all are original in there own way and each have differences and similarities, I want to explore how they different and similar and use this information.

Famous Secret Agents in Spy Films

• James Bond: Appears in the James Bond films

• Jack Ryan: Appears in Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

• Agent Kay: Appears in the Men in Black films

• Agent 99: Appears in Get Smart

• Nick Fury: Appears in various Marvel films

• Ethan Hunt: Appears in the Mission Impossible films

Gender
Most of the secret agents I have chosen to study, show that the majority of films use the stereotype that females are not powerful and are seen as vulnerable, for example in James Bond the woman is often vulnerable, weak and is unable to defend herself. However in Get Smart, though a comedy, it contains secret agent characters in which one is a female who is seen as desirable in the film and is capable of defending herself from danger, this helps defeat the stereotype of women in spy films and makes them appear more independent.

Costume

Most of the secret agents often wear dark clothing. This could be because that the identity of these people could try to be hidden to make them blend in the silhouettes. Also some films add there own uniqueness for there secret agent, for example in Marvel films, Nick Fury wears a black eye patch, this helps make the secret agent more memorable for the audience and adds mystery for the character. Also some secret agents from these films wear black glasses, this helps keep there identity secret and makes them appear more intimidating and powerful to the audience. In Mission: Impossible, Ethan Hunt who plays the secret agent often wears clothing which has pockets containing advanced technology and dangerous weaponry. Also belts containing grapples and ropes are often used. However not all secret agents wear military looking outfits, for example James Bond is well known for wearing a tuxedo, this helps him still look superior but helps him blend in with the rest of societies wealthy. Furthermore when the secret agents are not wearing military clothing and are in public areas, they will often still wear dark clothing to help keep hidden, but at the same time blend in with crowds to appear less conspicuous. 

Props
Most of the secret agents are commonly known for handling a pistol. However not all these secret agents have the exact same pistol or weapon for that matter, for example Agent Kay is handling a large silver metallic weapon which looks very futuristic and highly advanced, but this isn't a pistol and because it is a unknown weapon, the audience doesn't know what damage it can cause. But not all secret agents handle futuristic weapons, James Bond handles the most basic weapon secret agents are commonly associated with, which is a standard black, metallic pistol.

Personality
All the secret agents listed above all act confidently and don't show any shyness towards the people they work for or there co-workers. Also many of the secret agents often have hidden pasts and are very cautious when discussing there past to others. Also they are all very independent and sometimes dislike having to be working in a team with others.

What I have learnt
From these characters I have learnt useful information about genders that often are used for secret agents, however when we began thinking ideas for the narrative we knew as a group that secret agent roles were normally dominated by males. However I have learnt a lot about costumes. This is very important as we need our protagonist to look like a realistic secret agent to make our film look professional. Also this has helped because there are numerous costumes which can be associated with agents and not just a smart black suit. Furthermore the props has helped identity certain props that are often used. I focused on the weapon props as this will be the most easiest prop to access when we come to filming. Lastly the personalities of secret agents also helps us identity which of our friends or people willing to volunteer themselves into our film, has a personality similar to an agents.

Including a Female Protagonist
We have chosen to use a female protagonist because we want to defeat the stereotypes of women in spy films. This is because women are often seen as weak and vulnerable people and play the 'damsel in distress'. However not all films portray women this way, for example in Salt, Angelina Jolie is seen as a strong independent woman. Also in other films such as The Avengers Assemble and The Dark Knight, the woman is strong and possesses power.

Our Female Protagonist
Below is a quick sketch of what we imagine our female protagonist to look like:

The Male Gaze Theory

The character, Jinx is sexualised an is seen as a object of desire.

The Male Gaze Theory is based of the concept of gaze which is how men look at women, how women look at themselves and how women look at other women. 

The Male Gaze Theory is applied into films by when the camera lingers on the curves of the female body and events which occur on women. The theory helps sexualize the female body and portray her as an object rather than a person. Also the theory shows that the female characters exist in relation to the male. For example in James Bond, Die Another Day the character Jinx who is played by Hally Berry is sexualized as she comes out of the sea and she works along side the main protagonist within the film.

Hypodermic Syringe Theory

Hypodermic Syringe Theory

The Syringe Theory suggests that the media influences the audience with ideas.

The Hypodermic Syringe Theory shows that the media has a direct effect that is powerful on its audience.

Several factors that contribute to the theory:-

- The vast rise in radio and television use.

- The strong influence through advertising and propaganda

The theory suggests that the media could influence the audiences directly and ''injects'' them with messages which are specifically designed to trigger a response from the audience.

The model suggests a powerful and direct message that flows the information to the audience. This shows the media injects messages into a passive audience, which is instantly influenced by the message.People are seen as passive because they they end up thinking what there told through the media. Also they are oblivious that the media are having influences on them. 

Audience Profile

Demographics

Gender: Male

For our film, our target audience’s gender will be male. However within our films narrative we have used stereotypes which we have defeated. For example, one stereotype we have overcome in our films narrative is that women are often seen as vulnerable and weak characters. We have overcome this by changing our protagonist (hero) to a female, this then shows that the female protagonist can be powerful and controlling.

Age: 21

Religion: Catholic

Education: Secondary School Education, Higher Education

Qualifications: 9 GCSE's, 4 A-Levels

Occupation: Part time Waiter

Marital Status: Single

Income: £5.30 h/r

Nationality: British

Ethnicity: White

Psycho-graphics

He is a very enthusiastic and happy person. He enjoys meeting new people and spending his free time with his friends, however he does like to spend time of his PlayStation because he has an addiction to Grand Theft Auto. Also he loves going on holiday and exploring new places, as he is a risk taker and enjoys trying new things. He also enjoys the latest modern music and likes to listen to artists such as Ed Sheeran, the Wanted and the Script. He also works hard at his studies and wants to achieve the best. He wants a very good career and has his eyes set on high goals, as he is ambitious. He loves to watch movies on Netflix and likes to try new types of films that he wouldn't think he would be interested in and 

Likes

Playing Badminton and Tennis, loves going to parties, socializing on Facebook and Twitter, dogs, travelling the world and exploring new places, loves going out to restaurants, likes to swim, loves music.

Dislikes

Politicians, smoking, sprouts, drugs, anti-social behaviour, loud and rude people, rats.