Updated storyboard - task 36

In our updated storyboard, we have included more shots in order to have an interesting variety.  However the storyline itself hasn't changed. We wanted to add more close-ups to make sure the characters are established and the audience are aware of whose present in the scene. In the beginning it shows the stages of the scenery then we would introduce the main character and the close up and medium close up would make the audience understand he is the main character. There are a lot of over the shoulder shots too so that the audience can take on the perspective of the characters, not only their own viewpoint but with the characters therefore creating an empathetic response.

First day of filming - Wednesday 28th January - 42/43

Filming for Beginners

In todays lesson we have  decided to split into pairs with Ahsan and Mel filming, despite the weather, and myself and China updating our blog and time toast. This enabled things to go quicker and we would have more time to spend on the filming even though we would of wanted the whole group to go out filming it was worth it. Today Ahsan and Mel will be focusing on filming the estate which is the first setting that is introduced within the opening sequence. The location of this setting is 'silver street'. We have chosen this location because it represents a popular area where young people in the community share similar interests as to our storyline.

We decided to only film the scenery to get our film started. It was a hassle at first trying to get the right shots and right angles but the many shots we took the more choice we had to decide which one is the best one. We weren't really because of the weather but it started brightening up therefore we became motivated and got some work done. We took several establishing shots of tunnels and pathways and estates. We chose establishing shot so that the audience would be aware of the setting and location. We wanted to make sure it was clear and a good angle. Ahsan and myself took turns in the filming process in taking shots so both of them had a feel of what it was like to film we already call ourselves pro-filmers.
It was also nice to see people of the public wanting to be in our footage as much as we love them we couldn't put them all. Me and Ahsan really started to get the hang of it and explored the different angles that we knew. The filming lasted for about 2 hours and it was starting to get really cold so we called it a day and we were really proud of our shots when we reviewed them. I guess what we weren't happy about was when the sun shined brightly out of nowhere therefore making the brightness of the footage too bright as oppose to the quite dull, dark light we kind of wanted for our film. I'm sure we can fix this through the editing.

Blogging health check 1

10 posts at health check 1.  You are likely to be a bit disappointed with this initial grade Shanaz, but it's very easy for you to up your grade if you follow the guidance below.  Your blog at the moment is lacking in some detail and doesn't use visual methods of presentation very often - i.e. your blogs tend to be text-based when you could bring in screen shots from title sequences you are referring to or embedded videos of the films you are referring to.  To improve:  make sure that you are keeping up to date.  make sure that you are spending care and time over your blogs - they are appearing to be a little bit rushed (they are quite brief in places).  make sure that every blog post includes something 'visual' (see the 'ICT in blogging' handout for guidance on this).  Go back over each of the posts and think about how best to illustrate your understanding.   Ensure that each posts is titles either 'planning' or 'research' before the main title of the blog to help the moderator navigate through your work.  As we move into the planning stages of the production make sure that you are blogging around 2-3 times a week - using lunchtime workshop once a week is an easy way to make sure that you keep up to date.  You can easily improve this grade by following this guidance.

Blogging health check 1

Feedback from my teacher

"Hi China, you have a solid blog at the moment with some strong posts though I felt a few could do with more detail. Post 14 on the analysis of technical elements currently only includes one example and it'd be useful for you to list more when you analyse texts. Similarly your write up of "Ideas for our sequence" - listing the specific elements of MES would make this idea much more concrete. I like the idea by the way but the only problem I can foresee is finding actors who "look the part". 
I'd also add please don't be shy of using other methods of ICT - emzae, Slideshare, Prezi etc - when it comes to presenting information. It's essential, and it will give you extra marks when we grade and make your blog look more interesting and attractive". 

Brand your blog visually - 37

The design of the blog has been chosen in this way because it highlight the concept of our youth drama - The black filler suggesting the darkness and cruel life of gang culture. The mountains in the background depicting us the struggle of being a gang and also the struggle of chasing your dreams. If you want to reach the top you have to keep striving and that is what our Youth drama is about.

Revisions to pitch and final decisions in light of feedback - 40

The Pitch:Revision

Our pitch gained some feedback which consisted of both positive and negative. We are glad that the feedback was given so we could reevaluate what we need to improve and for us to make sure that everything is precise and clarified so that we are aware of what we are doing and there will be no need to keep double-checking or to keep changing. From the feedback we realised and consolidated that we need to revise our pitch and make amends.

What really went well?

Well what was commonly said about our pitch which really went well was the title credits. Our title credits were really a strong part of our pitch. The detail in the typeface and fonts we used was present and showing what we have already commenced on was really impressive. Our soundtrack was also liked as it was said that is suited our Youth drama and the whole concept of the film.

Our mise en scene - props and costumes etc. was really good also as it was clear what the characters were going to be wearing.

Would be better if?

There was few feedbacks on what we should improve. It was really good constructive criticism as it will enable us to go over where we are lacking or where we went wrong

Our storyline was good but had to more clarified because it gave a sense that there was no story when that is not the case. Also our storyboard to be updated as there are a few changes and what was said to be a good idea was to make an animatic of our storyboard so that we have a clear understanding of what comes next in sequence and how we are going to do each shot.

Because we were not really quite sure where the location was going to be therefore we need to add a location and be precise so that we are on board with the filming. We clear what the setting would look like which was really good but just need to be s=certain on the location.

There was a feedback where we need to understand the social groups being represented. We included that there was going to be working-class and gangs however we forgot to include what ethnicity the characters were.

Overall

Overall it was said that our pitch was really good and our little extract of our title sequence is top notch and it was a film to be looking forward to.

Practical Remake Activity - Evaluate your sequence - 17

How easy or difficult was it to create the title credits?

It was not difficult. Once we got to understand the basics and the usage off the software it became really easy to create the title credits such as the colour; font; size etc.

What decisions did you make when deciding on the font, typeface and size of titles?

Because it was a remake of 'The Breakfast Club' it was quite simple. All we had to do was just to try find which font and typeface matched the one in the actual film.... LONG!
We were in luck because the title credits in 'The Breakfast Club' was not complicated and so creative it was simple and did its purpose. So we found the font and edited on the size and colour.

How successful is your choice of font? Does it suit the tone of the film?

I believe our font was successful not only because it matched the actual video but also because it was suitable for the high school drama. It suited the tone of the film and was not animated in some sort of way because it would suit the tone of the film. I think we id a good job on doing the remake and the typeface and font really did well.

If you were to complete this task again, what would you do differently?

If we were to complete the task again we would make sure our tripod does not have a default because at some points in the film some of the still shots were shaky and that is not what we wanted to capture. I think we would try to use more of the high angle shot as it shows in the actual film but overall we are really proud of our remake and we really enjoyed doing so.

Blogging Health check 1 - 21

Blog Feedback from teacher:

"The blogs are properly done and you have manage to put relevant detail into each blog however you have only done a few therefore your grade will not be as good as it should be. You should be on at least 20 blogs by now,. Nevertheless it is all good just be consistent with your blogging and try not to be late blogging. Make sure all blogs are up to date and keep checking your blog checklist to see if you have anything missing so therefore catch up on what you are missing and get them up straight away s you will have a good grade for your blog. Because the exam is very hard and the blog is the easiest way to get one of the biggest marks so use it to an advantage. Hi Mel - some good initial blog posts on research, though a couple of blogs missing. You write at length and analyse well in most posts though the post on Audiences would also benefit from a summary.
Currently you are missing your Xmas HW, remake and analysis of remake - please post as soon as possible. Similarly your write up of "Ideas for our sequence" - listing the specific elements of MES would make this idea much more concrete. I like the idea btw but the only problem I can foresee is finding actors who "look the part""

Targets:

• Be Up-to-date!
• After each lesson try get a blog done
• Have at least 30 blogs before the next health check
• Consistency
• Get extra blogging not just from checklist

Costume activity pack - task 31

Costume Activity Pack

A brief idea of the costume I am wearing is displayed below. I am playing the main character in my sequence whose name is Tyrone; 17 years old black and from a working class background.
It is not certain that I would be wearing these costumes but they will be however similar or just an idea of how I wil be wearing.

 Black Jeans or even blue/dark blue

 Black trainers

Black Puffer Jacket or could be a parka jacket.

Our Pitch Feedback - 39

The Pitch - 38

The Breakfast Club Title Sequence Remake

PLANNING 

Above is part of our planning for our Breakfast Club title sequence remake. We wrote down in advance the names of every title credit that appeared and in the correct order and also the shots, camera angles and what was in the shot, also in the correct order. 

Three Media Texts that Influenced Our Youth Drama

KIDULTHOOD

Kidulthood is a popular youth drama that influenced us in many ways. The costumes and attitudes of the characters are almost exactly the same as what we plan to have in our opening sequence. The characters all talk slang and constantly have an angry facial expression and a negative attitude/ lack of respect towards those above them or authority figures. Their costumes are also stereotypical of a male youth, which is what our opening sequence is filled with. Below are some screen grabs of examples:

This is a shot clearly showing the costumes and facial expressions that are commonly used. 

 This is another shot showing the lack of respect and attitude towards others. 

SHANK

Shank has also influenced us for our opening title sequence through their use of  music. We feel we can create a similar soundtrack to the one used when presenting the characters. The tone and feel of the music is parallel to the atmosphere of the film therefore it would fit in well. 

THE GUVNORS

Finally,The Guvnors has also influenced us with their variety and use of shots and camera angles. The angles and shots used in The Guvnors does a good job of emphasising tension, emotion and body language of the characters therefore we feel using some of these ideas we could create the same atmosphere. Some shots also clearly show which characters are dominant and which are weaker. 

The Guvnors also has a good location/setting that we are able to find and film in ourselves. The setting is realistic considering the film in a youth drama. 

This is the setting used in The Guvnors from one of many angles, There are plenty of these locations in London that we can use.

This is also one of many shots used to show emotion/facial expressions and dominance.

      This is also one of the shots we decided to use in our title sequence. 

Our title 'Grind'

As a group we came up with a urban fitted title called 'GRIND', we used this title because it reflects on our genre which is Youth drama. This title potrays the typical gang culture as being difficult and infers how there is no easy way out, we also came up with the title because it is afiliated and common with youths within their local boroughs. In slang terms the word 'grind' conveys money and to keep working and 'staying on your grind'.

We have used this title to appeal to our target audience which is teenagers and especially aimed at young males. The aim of our title and opening sequence should automatically reflect a day in a young (male/females) teenagers lifestyle.

Ideal Locations

Institutions/ studios that will distribute and produce our film - Blogging task 23

Our film will be an independent production. an independent film is a film production resulting in a feature film that is produced mostly or completely outside of the major film studio system. Independent films are sometimes distinguishable by their content and style and the way in which the filmmakers' personal artistic vision is realised. Usually, but not always, independent films are made with considerably lower film budgets than major studio films. 

Generally, the marketing of independent films is characterised by limited release, but can also have major marketing campaigns and a wide release. Independent films are often screened at local, or international film festivals before distribution. 

We will have CANDI PRODUCTIONS and Revolver Entertainment producing/distributing our film.

Revolver Entertainment has been involved in other successful youth drama films such as kidulthood, adulthood and PIMP. 

19- Creating sounds on Garageband

Using Garageband

When using Garageband there are several options. When creating a normal sound and music you just have to click on Loops. Once clicked on loops, A page will be shown just as shown below but without the tracks. You can then go on to the library and look for sounds, fx or instruments you want to use to create your track. Instruments ranging from, guitar, kits, electronic, synthesizer. It is your track so you make it into anything you want it to be. Be Creative. You have the Garage now make you band!

Twitter feed: Group 32 Fi Dem!

24 - Font styles and typeface we'd use

From using motion we have found fonts and typeface which goes alongside our theme of urban grime youth drama. We have decided to go for a font called "rocky" this had a sleek dark overtone over the moving images through the way it was presented which went well alongside the theme and reinforced our youth drama.

An example of the font and typeface we used called "rocky"

18. - Creating titles in motion

 Using Motion

Motion is a software where we are able to create a title. There are several templates in motion that you can choose from. Once you have decided what titles you would like to use, it is then followed by editing whatever you want to be involved within your title.

After this, you would be able to edit the font, style, colour and all sorts. You can be as creative as you want.

34 - Production Schedule

              

33: Story board: First draft

26 - Rough draft of motion created titles and opening

We used final cut pro in order to present our garageband tracks along side the draft of the title sequences we used final cut pro in order to create the title sequences and we had a rough idea of how to present the title sequence, we have decided to put through the title over moving images.

22: Initial Ideas

The film we have chosen to do is based on youth drama,
We have chosen to start the film off with the introduction of the scene, through the local areas from shops to estate to reinforce our urban hood based youth drama, such as the graffti throught the local estates. From then on there is the introduction of the characters and to start off with is the main character who infact has a dream to make it successful through a professional football career but is dragged into the gang and violent culture of his town. The main character then involves with his friends whereby they all mess about and enjoy themselves when they see another group of youths who arent from his part of town as these youths slowly approach there seems to be a sense of tension amongt themselves and both gangs start approaching closer to each other. The main character is then by one of his friends is told to "leave it" and carry on with themselves. The main character pays no attention and nods to let them know to keep walking. Dialouge of both gangs increases and becomes more and more violent and agressive as they keep walking the camera starts to fade away..

We have chosen to go for a title sequence which is stylised, we have inteneded to keep the tite over the action as it will help support our theme, as for example having an animated title sequence would not be appropriate as it will be too bold and stand out as childish, by having a stylised title sequence which goes over the action would show a sense of coldness as the title will be black and in a simple font to match colours of the film, this will reinforce a sleek image on the viewers.

Kidulthood would be a great example of a title sequence which has influenced us to use the dark theme. As thier omnious black and white title sequence is quick and over the action to also show the dark and cloudy theme which has given the audience a quick idea that the theme of the film is going to be over a urban gang lifestyle. Green St Hooligans, Adulthood, The Guvnors would be typical films which have influenced us to go for an authentic youth drama as it preserves the urban lifetyle of youths throught differnt timescale and shows the typical life of an "estate boy" in the ends of London. We intend to conform the opening as we understand that from watching the films there would not be a reason why we should go against it as it shows the typical lifestyle of gang culture and hood, we also think that it will involve much more action and presents the name of youth drama as theyre most active and like to be in the action and in the centre of everything.

The Breakfast Club Title Sequence - Remake activity - Blogging task 16

Macro Analysis of Youth Drama

Key plot ideas introduced:

•  Conflict between relationships
• Main characters who either play a part in the conflict or are affected by it. Mel will play the main character who is has a successful career ahead of him but has chosen the gang life.

Characters introduced:

• A male character
• Gang members

Representation of social groups:

• Gangs
• Working class
• Guys being introduced to gang life
• No binary oppositions

28 - Find 3 real media texts

1.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qgdY12etrb8

This is a clip from the guvnors where by there is evidence of 2 cultures of gang, we have chosen to go for the youth side we may used similar scenary and display similar gang culture from the video such as the estates and the youth being in a group together and as one part of a group.

This picture stands out for me as it shows the backs of a certain group/gang being together and sticking up for eachothers backs.
This image can be used into our work in introducing the characters who are from another gang coming into another groups estate and trying to keep themselves on a low.





This picture stands out as it shows the hooded group looking sly and chilling around thier block. This can be used into our work to represent the scenry such as the estate and the main characters themselves.

27 -Sound Lesson - 10 things i hate about you re make

We added layers of sound to the film clip '10 things I hate about you' . We used the software Garageband to create our sounds. it consisted of 4 layers of edited, synchronous sound. The 4 layers of sound we used were: deep house bass, chordal synth pattern, step snapper beat and Euro honeycomb synth. These were synths, syn bass and kits.We chose these sounds because we thought it matches up with the high school drama.

Garageband was not at all difficult to use and we really got the hang of it. I really think our edited sound is really good and it is pretty effective.

Ideas for our Youth drama title sequence

In today's lesson we watched a collaboration of different opening sequences of popular youth drama movies. From watching 'the Guvnors' we analysed various types of mise en scene, for example; this movie gave us many ideas for the type of atmosphere we would open our scene with. The Guvnors portray young adults as being violent and troublesome and we see conflict between them and authority, including adults. This conforms to the stereotype and the representation of male youths.

The mise en scene (sound) used eventually speeds up as more action begins. It was dark at the beginning which sets the mood for the opening sequence and then speeds up to show that there will be action too.

Some of the shots used in the Guvnors, such as the close ups, showed their facial expressions clearly which helped us understand their attitudes throughout the film. Further more, high angle shots were also used to show dominance and weakness between characters. These helped us come up with ideas to use in our own title sequence.

Initial Ideas - Blogging task 22

We have chosen to do Youth drama as we believe that we will be able to develop more ideas and make most of the technical elements within our title sequence. We think that Youth dramas are more relatable to young people therefore we feel that we will attract a niche audience.

Our initial plot/storyline is to introduce clear conflict between two gangs/group of friends, however we thought having a fight wouldn't make sense as it's the beginning of the film, therefore we set a scene and created an atmosphere that foreshadows something negative happening later on in the film.

We've decided to start with simply introducing the characters though their attitudes, costume and the location they're in. The character type is a stereotypical male youth, dressed in tracksuit or hoodie and trainers.

We have chosen to do title over moving image as we can include information such as the introduction of the characters (which will be the two main characters and their friends) as well as include the scenery/location. These will allow the audience to understand the genre and atmosphere of the film.

Sub genre conventions - Macro; task 13

LA HAINE

Plot: Teens being in confrontation with Adults. "Teen vs Adults" - showing rebellion. The "adults" the teens are confronting are the police
Characters Introduced: Said and Vinz
It comes in chronological order.
The social groups that are being represented are the working class. Said and Vinz. One being Arab (Said) and the other a Jew (Vinz)
It is a complex representation due to the fact that teens are portrayed as positive according to the audience and the police "adults" as the enemy/negative. The teens are protesting and rioting because of what the police have cause.

SUPERBAD

Plot: highlighting the two friends dancing and having a good time emphasizing what the movie is going to be about
Characters introduced: Two best friends who are gone to be separated for a while
It is in chronological order
Complex Representation

Setting/Locations

For our title sequence we're planning to use settings and locations that are typical of a youth drama film. These consist of estates, quiet roads, vandalised areas (Graffiti), football cage, etc. Overall it's places youths hang out with their friends. This will, again,  help set the atmosphere.

Below are some more examples of areas we intend to film in.

32 - Wardrobe Activity

This is the clothing id be wearing on the day of filimg to represent my character as he is a 17 year old asian gang member who isnt too indimidating but helps the gang to move forward in getting the money through drugs and violence.
I have chosen to wear the props from the intial idea such as the
jacket, jeans, gloves, and black trainers.

31 - Costume Activity

Costume Activity Pack

A brief idea of the costume I am wearing is displayed below. I am playing the one of the main character in my sequence whose name is JV; 17 years old mixed asian and from a working class background. My role is small in the film itself, as I am the mate of the main character who is always in the block
To get an idea of what Id be wearing.
My character costume is both hood and a bit less indimidating.

 The trainers

Jacket

The essential glove

Costumes

For our title sequence, due to the storyline I won't be in front of the camera so don't need to plan my costume however the characters who will be in the sequence will be wearing the stereotypical clothes for a male teen. This consists of jeans or tracksuit bottoms, trainers, caps/hats, bomber jacket. These costumes help give a rough idea of the way we're representing our characters and their personalities.

Below are some of the outfits we intend to pull off in order to go well with our sub genre.