Going Horrifically Crazy Over Planning

TODAY IS LEAP DAY!! HAPPY LEAP DAYY!!

FILMING IS SOON (like 1.5 weeks)!!!! I am panicking because I have NOTHING ready (location, equipment, and actors) and I’m stuck at home.. So, I need to wait until next week (when I’m healthy again) to go chase my friends and beg them to lend me their cool professional stuff (drone and lights) and their skills (acting).

First things first, LOCATION: 

I need to find out where I’m filming. I asked my parents if we could use my house and kitchen and they said yes (YIPPEE!). Most of my introduction takes place in a house with a nice kitchen and dining table, so using my house is perfect. For the second scene, however, I’m not sure if I want to film it in my backyard or a friend’s house. I will confirm this soon, I need to ask around for opinions.

My mother's approval!!!!!:

Second, EQUIPMENT:

I'm on a budget and I don't own (or can currently afford) expensive equipment, like extremely good quality cameras, lights, and drones. So, I'm going to ask my friends that own these dope equipments if I can borrow them. (I'm just going to ask for a drone.. I don't want to sound too needy.)

I want to use the drone for the first shots where I demonstrate the suburban setting and home where the story takes place. 

I'm going to use my iPhone 13's camera and I'll borrow a stabiliser (I think that's how it is named/spelled?) from my teacher to keep my camera still and make it look good. I'm also going to use my computer/iPad for lightning (flash, screen, etc). Good lightning will improve the quality and I'll be able to switch around the spot of focus to cause greater emotions.

Soooo, I need to ask ASAP for equipment. (I will be updating if I'm successful in getting the drone.. fingers crossed!)

Third and last, ACTORS:

I'm going actor hunting next week when I'm back in school. I'm still debating whether I should ask the theatre kids (good acting!) or my friends (bad acting..). 

I'm scared to ask the theatre kids because I barely know them and they lowkey intimidate me.. but my friends' acting sucks (as seen in previous projects). I will be updating soon on who I'm able to "hire" (I will be offering Publix cookies as a reward).

I need 2 women and 1 man. I will be focusing on mise-en-scene very soon.. I want to have my own brainstorming bubble for that.

This will be rough, it's a lotttt of work! I, additionally, need to find extra hands to help me film this project.. I need a cinematographer and someone to hold the microphones.. I have a lot of begging to do when I return to school.

More Horrific Movies

I got sick (again!), so I had some time to research more movie introductions and gain some inspiration and knowledge on the techniques and elements.

A few notable openings to horror and thriller films provide valuable insights into the making of good narrative. For example, director William Friedkin uses a prologue set in an Iraqi archaeological dig in "The Exorcist" (1973). The eerie tone is established right away when an old evil individual is introduced in this beginning. The major characters are introduced and the setting shifts to Georgetown produce a striking contrast that heightens the sense of impending doom. The creepy soundtrack and gradual building set the stage for the terrifying possession that unfolds later.

(This is a link for a trailer of The Exorcist- 

https://youtu.be/BU2eYAO31Cc)

The Exorcist Movie Cover-

Christopher Nolan's "Memento" (2000) offers a unique beginning to the psychological thriller genre. The non-linear narrative structure of the film is introduced with a backward-developing Polaroid. The spectator is left feeling disoriented, just like the protagonist is, due to the timeline's fragmentation and memory loss. Because of the depth of the storyline and the intriguing questions it raises, Nolan's use of non-linear storytelling keeps viewers interested and immersed in the mystery as it develops.

(This is a link for a trailer of Memento-

https://youtu.be/4CV41hoyS8A)

Memento Movie Cover-

James Wan's 2013 horror film "The Conjuring" provides a good starting point for a more conventional horror experience by fusing supernatural elements with real people. The Warrens, paranormal investigators, talk about the Annabelle doll case at the beginning of the movie. The ominous atmosphere and the Warrens' conviction are established in this introduction, lending the story legitimacy and a sense of unease. Tension increases when the scene shifts smoothly to the Perron family's farmhouse and paranormal activities take place. A terrifying atmosphere is created by Wan's use of realistic effects and tense pacing, which sets the stage for the horrors that follow.

(This is a link for a trailer of The Conjuring-

https://youtu.be/k10ETZ41q5o)

The Conjuring Movie Cover-

Analyzing these introductions reveals recurring themes that enhance their effect. It's important to use subtle music, thoughtful pacing, and strategic element introductions. It is remarkable how well the directors are able to set the mood, create suspense, and draw the viewer in right away. Gaining insight into these small details will let me experiment with original aspects that fit my creative vision and serve as inspiration for my own story. These examples can help me create an engaging and memorable opening for my own work, whether it is through atmospheric suspense, non-linear frameworks, or otherworldly twists.

These were incredible movies, and I was able to learn and gain inspiration on how to shoot certain shots and what type of editing I should do later on. I'm excited to start filming in like 2 weeks!! (I'm nervous)

Part 2 of Writing a Horrendous Story

 So, I decided on the end of the introduction! I will have the woman talking to her friend about her love life! I picked this because the dialogue and suspense just sounded better overall. 

Here’s the second part (with shots and stuff again)!:

-Mid shot- two women legs and feet walking (one new character and the one seen before)

-Mid shots- no faces revealed yet, they sit down and camera goes up

-Mid shot- one asks the other “so how was the date last night”

-Over the shoulder- responds “the dinner was excellent! But I'm not sure about the guy..”

-Over the shoulder- other responds “Again? Ugh I hope you find a husband soon.. It’s getting late and you’re so picky..!”

-Mid shot- “Oh I know, Patricia.. But I just haven't found the one (upset but after saying “the one” starts smiling widely and creepily again kinda in relief)

END. HURRAH! 

(cover of movie will be her smiling widely lowkey creepy w a little drop of blood on her face)

I’m SO excited to film this, but it will DEFINITELY be a challenge.. I’m up for a challenge;)!

Part 1 of Writing a Horrendous Story

 I’ve been working on this for like an hour (maybe more) and I'm still not done. I still need to pick more details, but I am advancing in the planning of my film. I also need to work out stuff, such as where I’ll get a drone from or how I’ll get stuff happening. 

I want to make it a discreet horror/thriller.. Kinda like a surprise or secret.. :)! 

Here is the start of my film and what shots I’m planning on using!:

(music starts and shots start to fade in from black)

-Settings shots (2-3)- suburban houses and city (drone, the drone moves and takes houses and stuff and then in one it goes down)

-Setting shot- house

-Close ups and mid shots- objects (the pretty setting of the table indicating it is a romantic lunch, such as flowers, and the pretty plates and stuff)

-Midshot- heels and lower leg walking (camera follows)

-Close up- turning on the stove

-Close ups and mid shots- woman cooking, not reveal face yet

(noises of her cutting veggies and cooking are overlapped w music, which is soft)

-Mid shot- putting it on a tray and making it pretty (all of this^^ in nice, sweet, innocent lightning.. maybe a lil shade of pink BUT very small and discreet)

-Mid shot- her walking w the tray

-Shoulder shot- her serving it, not revealing the “date”

-High angle Mid shot- right at her saying “ok honey, food’s ready, time to eat” and very creepy wide smile and spoon w food up

-Low angle Mid shot/close up- man strapped down bleeding and rejecting

-High Mid shot- right at her again, but smile fades and she puts the spoon into camera (like close, not into)

-Long mid shot- her trying to feed the man

-Mid shot/close up- man refuses

-Mid shot- right at her, smile completely faded, puts spoon down, mad angry furious

-Mid Close up- takes long knife out of back

-Long mid shot- stabbing him

(screen goes black and loud male loud scream, title “The One” appears very bubbly but turns bloody.. Then a clock ticking is heard but not seen)

-Mid shot- clock ticking

I’m still figuring out what should happen afterwards. I am not sure if I want the character to be working in an office and picking her next target, or talking to a friend about her love life. This is going to be a hard film, but I will try my best! I have a vision..

Silly Horrific Details I Should Include

 While exploring the horror genre and incorporating elements into my film, it's important to approach sensitive subjects, such as torture, with care to avoid exploitative content. It is better to emphasize psychological horror rather than graphic violence. Here are some characteristics I was recommended to incorporate:

1. Atmosphere of Dread: I need to use lighting, sound design, and cinematography to create a tense atmosphere. Shadows, dim lighting, and eerie music can contribute to a sense of impending horror.

2. Ambiguity and Mystery: I need to introduce elements that leave the audience questioning the motives and background of the characters involved. Uncertainty can enhance the psychological horror aspect.

3. Character Development: I need to explore the psychology of both the victim and the torturer. It’ll provide glimpses into their past or motivations, creating a more complex narrative that adds depth to the horror and the need to see more.

4. Subtle Scares: I need to employ psychological scares rather than explicit violence. I can do this by utilizing subtle visual cues or unsettling dialogue to evoke fear without resorting to extreme gore.

5. Sound Design: I need to use sound strategically to build tension. Creaking floors, distant whispers, or subtle noises can contribute to an unsettling atmosphere.

6. Unreliable Narration: I need to play with the audience's perception by introducing an unreliable narrator. This can add layers of psychological horror, making viewers question the authenticity of what they're witnessing.

It's essential to approach sensitive topics responsibly and to be mindful of the potential impact on the audience. I need to strive to create a narrative that respects the horror genre without crossing into extreme territory.

The Ideal Plan to Run Everything Smoothly and Not Stress!!

 So, today I worked on an ideal project schedule that I’m planning to follow. I have a limited time to work on this project, so I need to use my time wisely and dedicate all the time possible to this. It is a LOT! I’m lowkey stressed, but this helped calm down my nerves a bit.

*drumroll* 

Mariana’s Project Schedule for Creating a 2-Minute Movie Introduction;)------

Project Overview:

The objective is to plan and film a 2-minute introduction for a movie. I’ve been thinking of this project for the entire school year, so I have a clear idea of what path I want to take with my story. I want mine to start with a seemingly mundane scene of a woman in her suburban home cooking for a man, only to reveal a plot twist where she is actually a psychopath. I want to make it a discreet horror/thriller.. Kinda like a surprise or secret. The project includes pre-production preparation, story development, and actual filming.

These are the steps and tasks to success:

1. Inspiration: 

- Task 1: Brainstorming Session: Think of more possible ideas for the story twist, making sure it fits the genre and has the intended effect.

- Task 2: Storyboard Creation: Create a storyboard that outlines the introduction's main shots, transitions, and how everything will look overall. 

--Important - Revise the storyboard for best suspense and consider the possible effects of multiple plot twists. Also think of where to integrate the credits and title, and what should happen after the plot twist (end? one more scene? what should happen;))

2. Pre-Production: 

- Task 1: Scriptwriting: Condense and integrate the chosen plot twist into the script. 

- Task 2: Location Scouting: Find an appropriate suburban home and setting to shoot the film.

- Task 3: Casting: To guarantee a credible portrayal of characters and good film, choose people who are somewhat familiar to acting and not camera shy. Also look for people who are usually available (reliable) and willing to film for long periods of time (patient).

- Task 4: Budgeting: Select and distribute funds for costumes, equipment, and props. (Gotta talk with my parents about this one..) Also, contact connections and people whom I know have access to good equipment to borrow it!

--Important - Evaluate potential difficulties and modify the script appropriately. Also, make sure the creative vision and the budget are in line. I gotta keep it on budget and search for what I already have!!

3. Production Planning:

- Task 1: Creating a Shot List: Divide the screenplay into separate shots, paying close attention to camera angles and movements. 

- Task 2: Rehearsals: Work with the actors to ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day of filming.

- Task 3: Equipment Check: Confirm that every piece of filming equipment is operating as intended.

--Important - Assess the shot list's ability to create the appropriate tension. Adapt based on rehearsals as necessary. Direct everything kindly and work well with the actors, actresses, and people who offered an extra set of hands:)

4. Filming: 

- Task 1: Shooting: Carefully carry out the arranged shots, ensuring that the intended mood is captured. Use good lightning and make sure to shoot several times, until the perfect and ideal shot is captured.

- Task 2: Director Oversight: Verify that actors are giving the desired performances and that the tense atmosphere is being maintained.

- Task 3: Continued Evaluation: Watch the video repeatedly to see any possible problems and fix them right away.

--Important - Evaluate the film material for overall suspenseful effects, consistency, and script compliance. Make sure you like everything!

*After all of these steps, I can start my editing process! Editing is extremely important, so I have to dedicate plenty of time to it. 

Hopefully, this all works out for me! I’m super excited but a bit nervous.. WOO. With this schedule, I should be able to manage my time properly and dedicate it a good amount of time. This will ensure the final product effectively captivates the audience and delivers on the intended suspenseful atmosphere.

Researching Film Openings from the Best!

These past few days I've been stuck at home because I caught strep (TMI?). It's been awful.. so, I decided to do some deep research on film openings in the genre I'm interested in doing.  

Horror and thriller films have very important beginning scenes that establish the mood for the entire cinematic experience. Filmmakers usually utilize a range of techniques that immediately draw the audience's attention. It becomes clear that there are many more complex elements involved in horror and thriller film openings than just building suspense and anxiety.

The exact arrangement of both music and graphics is one element that is important. Classic horror films, such as Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho," use  terrifying opening sequences that foreshadows the approaching terror. These are presented by using a combination of Bernard Herrmann's music and disturbing shots by Saul Bass. A psychological uneasiness that dominates the entire film is captured by the piercing strings and sudden cuts. Modern thrillers like "Se7en," directed by David Fincher, have opening credits that blend into the gloomy setting of the movie, adding to the overall sense of dread.

<--------- This is a picture of the cover of Hitchcock's movie "Psycho"

This is a picture of the cover of 

Fincher's movie "Se7en" ------------------------------->

In horror and thriller films, the credits are more than just a list of names. They are essential to the narrative process. For example, in Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining'', images of the isolated Overlook Hotel are complemented by the creepy soundtrack throughout the opening titles. A sudden sense of solitude is created by the unsettling music and imagery. This lays a foundation for the horrors that lie ahead. The credits integrated  into the story smoothly, creating a memorable experience right away.

<-----This is a picture of the cover of Kubrick's movie "The Shining"

Furthermore, a big part of the overall impact is determined by the timing and pace of the opening scenes in horror and thriller films. In Jordan Peele's "Get Out," a long zoom into a suburban neighborhood sets for an incredibly calm opening scene. As the camera lingers on tiny details, a previously ordinary scene grows more and more disturbing. This slow, methodical pacing heightens the suspense, which increases the impact of the final turn towards horror.

This is a picture of the cover of Peele's movie "Get Out" ->

Overall, a balance between credit integration, sound design, and visual storytelling is shown by the study of horror and thriller movie openings. Filmmakers employ these tactics to capture viewers' interest while simultaneously immersing them in a suspenseful and terrifying atmosphere. As we explore deeper into the development of these genres, it becomes increasingly evident that the opening sequences function as a platform on which filmmakers may display their talents and establish the fascinating storylines that occur. 

I will definitely make sure to include these techniques in my intro when I present the main character and who she truly is. I will use music and visuals to complement each other, as I believe they're one of the most important factors in a horror and thriller film opening. I'm so excited to make a film opening about a psychotic crazy woman and include all these cool and insane techniques.

Spooky Genre Research!

 I decided I will be working by myself on this project. So, I first started brainstorming what type of genres and emotions I want my film to evoke.

I want to work with the genres of thriller and horror for the introduction of my movie because I’m drawn to the intense emotions and anticipation. In my narrative, exploring the theme of murder in the thriller genre allows me to delve deep into the psychology of characters, raising ethical questions that add complexity to the plot. It's about keeping the audience hooked, constantly questioning what might happen next.. especially in the introduction so they keep watching.

(^^Literally a picture of me watching horror and thriller movies)

Thriller and horror genres captivate audiences by instilling suspense, fear, and a sense of the unknown. I love the challenge of instilling fear and creating a chilling atmosphere. Tapping into primal fears and the unknown, I aim to make my audience feel uneasy and captivated. It's about embracing the element of surprise, crafting an eerie ambiance, and making sure the fear lingers, leaving a lasting impact. The best type of twists are the horrifying ones.

In the thriller genre, the narrative often revolves around intense anticipation and excitement, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Murder, a common theme in thrillers, adds layers of intrigue and complexity to the plot. It allows for the exploration of psychological depth in characters and raises questions of morality and justice.

In the horror genre, the focus shifts towards evoking fear and terror in the audience. The element of surprise, coupled with eerie atmospheres and supernatural elements, contributes to a visceral and chilling experience. Exploring the theme of horror often involves delving into the darkest corners of the human psyche, exploiting primal fears, and creating an unsettling atmosphere that lingers long after the story concludes.

I want to combine both genres to create horrific emotions ad intense anticipation. Combining both genres, it introduces a thrilling twist to the narrative. 

I think I will do the woman cooking and then tortured man introduction.. 

The revelation that the man the protagonist is cooking for is kidnapped and being tortured adds a layer of horror to the storyline. Balancing the elements of suspense, horror, and the psychological aftermath will be crucial to creating a gripping narrative that keeps the audience engaged. The challenge lies in crafting a storyline that navigates the delicate balance between terror and anticipation, delivering a compelling and memorable experience for the audience.

New Beginnings !

 

The time has come. It is time to start on my AICE final.

For my project I have a few ideas of what I want to do. I am definitely going to work with the genres of horror and thriller. I think this is good to build tension, especially in the first two minutes of a film. I am so excited for this project (and lowkey scared haha). 

First- One of my ideas is of a woman cooking (and then a plot twist will happen, and the other idea is of a couple moving into a new home (and then a plot twist happening). 

I’m going to brainstorm more ideas soon and write storyboards on how I’ll do them, so I decide what I’ll do. I’m still processing in my head how the characters will work.

Anyways- back to why I picked horror.. The horror and thriller genres provide me with an unique storytelling canvas that enables me to create significant reactions from my audience. They build suspense, anxiety, and terror. They create engaging and unforgettable experiences. It's a great method to demonstrate my ability to develop atmosphere, dramatic pacing, and character dynamics, which makes it a great option for a portfolio project.

Music Marketing Blog Post Pt. 2!! (Final)

 In AICE Media we are learning about marketing in the media. My teacher is teaching us this by assigning us a genre and song, which we will have to create a fake band for, market, promote, and make a music video for. In this project I am working with two of my classmates (D and B). We've been working on this project for around 2 weeks and we are finally done!

In my last post (progress post last week) I explained all of our first steps.. brainstorming, researching, organising, recording, and editing (part of it). For this last week we've been working on finishing the editing of our music video and working on our google slides information. Between D, B, and I we divided the information. I was in charge of explaining who our target audience is, who our band is, the outline of our campaign (step by step), and our distribution plan. I also helped D with ideas of our branded products and instagram posts!

In this blog post I will be explaining each one of my slides and information I've gathered and added into my slides this week!

My first slide explained our target audience. For our band's target age group we decided on 15 years old-mid 20s. Our lyrics can be relatable to these young audiences and so is our music video. It's about finding yourself and succeeding and that is a "hot topic" in this age group. For our band's target gender we decided to include all genders. This type of rock doesn't really have a "gender preference" as anyone can enjoy it and relate! For our band's target audience preferences we decided to target people who have a passion for music, have open-mindedness, are creative and unique, are live music enthusiasts, have history and nostalgia, have a counter-cultural spirit, have diverse tastes, have a collector mentality, and have emotional connections to things. We picked these because our band is this kind of style.. usually rock bands are this way.

My second slide explained who were were.. "Who Are We? WE ARE PARASOMNIA!!", is our band quote. Parasomnia consists of 5 band members, 1 lead singer, 2 guitars, 1 bass, and 1 drummer. We decided to make this a band because in the genre of rock bands are more popular (The Rolling Stones, Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, etc). But, we decided to make our lead singer the face of the band to make it easier to spread and promote (he's the star!). I also included the name of our song ("Here I Come!) and cover. 

My third slide explained our outline of the campaign (our steps!). 

These were our steps:

Step 1- Street/ Restaurant gigs (free) & promote socials + merch (also free) 

Step 2- Social media boost of song being launched on platforms soon

Step 3- Launch the song (Here I Go!) on platforms

Step 4- Pre-show acts at concerts of well-known artists

Step 5- Start selling merch and promoting it

Step 6- Launch the music video on youtube (+other platforms)

Step 7- Continue posting and promoting on socials (trends, fan edits, etc)

Step 8- FIRST CONCERT!!!!!!!!!!!!! (affordable)

Step 9- Free meets and greets + continue promoting merch

Step 10- FAMOUS! (continue interacting with fans and socials).

These are some examples of our visual steps:

These steps are crucial for our campaign because it explains (in deep detail) how Parasomnia will be able to become famous. We want to slowly build up our campaign up through live events and social media (our age group really enjoys tis kind of stuff and it's trendy). 

After I finished my work I helped D with ideas of the branded products (visuals) and this is how they turned out!:

I really enjoyed doing this project! Even though it was a bit stressful and extremely time consuming, I was able to learn how the media and campaigning works better.. it is a LONG process! It was really fun to create such a huge thing and spread it around. My favorite part of the project was filming the video. I really enjoyed practicing filming and exploring different angles. 

Something I would improve in the future would be using my time more wisely for the slides instead of wasting it and cramping it all last minute. 

Making a video recording and putting together a slide presentation is a great way for me to prepare for my exam. It helps me learn and practice effectively by reinforcing my understanding of the study material in an engaging manner.

Anyways, this is the links to our music video and our google slides:

Music Video- https://youtu.be/k3kbghLTrdE

Slides- https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1l1peH5wX5Ur0-OrjA-fkbBBTsB2fFP3F0eNULcENhQg/edit?usp=sharing 

THANK YOUUUU!