1. Savage

We will be watching and briefly discussing a short film called “Savage.” We will use it as an opportunity to demonstrate our critique process.

2. Shoot the Shots Project

Students should not be editing overdue projects. We are introducing a new project and will look at some past samples by former students. This is a partnered project, so you can find someone you’d like to work with or I will help you identify a collaborator. For the remainder of the day today and all day Tuesday and and Wednesday, groups should be coming up with concepts, preparing their storyboards, shot lists, acquiring props, scouting locations, and directing their actors. It is strongly advised that you take time to practice working with the equipment if you need time to review prior to your filming day. Notify Mr. Gilbar as soon as you are ready. The first five groups to finish will film first while the other students will be their actors. We will swap the next day, with the last five groups to finish filming afterwards.

Can you believe it, it is our first narrative film shoot! The “Shoot the Shots” exercise is out of just twenty marks. It will be a short, wordless narrative requiring 1-2 actors. Like all of our projects, please make sure to include your production logo at the beginning and a brief rolling credits at the end.

  1. Duration: The duration is between 45-90 seconds
  2. Camera shots: Includes EFFECTIVE use of all six shot types
  3. Camera moves: Includes EFFECTIVE use of two types of camera movement
  4. Continuity: Temporal continuity is created as one shot naturally leads into the next
  5. Versions: Two versions submitted, one with shots clearly labelled and one unlabelled

We will start planning this project tomorrow, but you should start thinking of ideas today!

3. Important Shots

Here is a great article on important shots. Don’t feel like reading? Here’s a video version!

  • Establishing shot (LS/XLS) 
  • Medium-long shot (MLS) 
  • Medium shot (MS) 
  • Close-up shot (CU/XCU) 
  • High angle shot  
  • Low angle shot 
  • Truck/dolly shot 
  • Pan/tilt shot

4. Production Planning

Spend the remainder of the class today and all class on Tuesday and Wednesday to prepare for your shoot on Thursday/Friday. To prioritize what you should be doing today…

  1. Form groups
  2. Brainstorm ideas
  3. Draft storyboard
  4. Finalize storyboard
  5. Scout locations
  6. Locate/create necessary props or wardrobe
  7. Print storyboard/scripts (if necessary)
  8. Walk through/rehearse with actors
  9. Review camera operation guides
  10. Practice with film equipment
  11. Complete diting “Light and Sound” exercise
  12. Finish “Viewpoints” project
  13. Go through the Film and Premiere Quizlet decks
  14. Watch Crash Course Film Production
Day 18-19, 9/27-10/2