CCR Pt 3…

 I am almost done with my CCRS…

Like I mentioned on my last CCR blog.. I got a lot of bloopers  

These are a few pics of my frustrations and mistakes (part 2!)

These CCRs were fun to make.. but a bit frustrating. They felt somewhat repetitive to my blogs and just overall.. but they were alright. 

This is my editing of the CCRs! :o (still on VN!)

Also! For my other CCR (Question 1 and 2) I decided to do a Q&A “show” with one of my stuffed animals. It’s called “The Seal Show”, where we will do a Q&A (it’s a bit silly but cute)

You’ll see soon! Bye:) See you next week! (Big week bc I will be posting EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!)

Peer Reviews of My Horrific Film

So, I asked around for opinions on my movie introduction and I got plenty of good feedback!

1. Peer Review Opinion 1:

   "An exciting dinner scene sets this horror movie apart from the others. Through a steady build-up of tension, the audience is kept on the edge of their seats by a surprising climax. A range of shots is employed to enhance the narrative and provide depth, creating an eerie mood that draws viewers in. I would change the font of the credits, though!"

2. Peer Review Opinion 2:

   "I found it impressive how this movie deftly played with expectations. It uses psychological manipulation and character development to induce fear rather than depending on jump scares or clichés. The dinner sequence is well composed, with every shot selected to maximize tension and highlight the protagonists' feelings. It's a welcome diversion from the usual horror fare. The ending is a little obvious."

3. Peer Review Opinion 3:

   "The cinematography in this film is good. The use of a variety of shots, from wide angles to close-ups, adds visual interest and captures the intensity of the dinner scene. The lighting and camera angles effectively convey the eerie atmosphere, while the pacing keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. Overall, it's a well-executed piece of filmmaking. I would recommend making the lightning a bit darker."

4. Peer Review Opinion 4:

   "What sets this horror film apart is its strong storytelling combined with dynamic cinematography. The dinner scene is a standout moment, expertly shot to heighten the sense of uncertainty. The use of different angles and perspectives adds depth to the characters and their interactions, drawing viewers deeper into the narrative. The ending is a bit sudden, though… so, I would recommend fixing the cut a bit."

I am very happy with these! And I will be working on fixing the font, lighting, and ending a bit:)!

Some Deep Thinking! (Hmm..)

 So, today I’m analyzing deeper on how my product uses/challenges conventions and how it represents a social group and issue. (I’m doing this to help me organize and narrow down an answer for my CCR question 1)

In my film, a man gets killed by a woman who is portrayed as crazy and delusional. This seems hard to analyze, but it can challenge conventions and represent a social group in several ways:

 1. Subversion of Gender Stereotypes: Horror films have often depicted women as victims or damsels in distress, while men are portrayed as the aggressors or heroes. In this scenario, flipping the gender roles challenges these conventions by portraying a woman as the aggressor and the man as the victim. This challenges stereotypes about gender and violence, highlighting that anyone can be capable of violence regardless of gender. 

2. Depiction of Mental Illness: By portraying the female character as "crazy and delusional," the film could potentially challenge stereotypes and stigmas surrounding mental illness. However, it's essential that the portrayal is sensitive, avoiding the reinforcement of harmful stereotypes about mental health issues. The film could explore themes of how societal attitudes and lack of support exacerbate mental health conditions, contributing to the character's descent into violence.

3. Critique of Patriarchal Structures: The film could use the scenario to critique patriarchal structures and power dynamics within society. For example, the female character's descent into violence could be portrayed as a reaction to experiences of oppression or abuse at the hands of men. This could spark discussions about systemic misogyny and the ways in which it impacts women's mental health and behavior.

4. Questioning Perceptions of Reality: The portrayal of the female character as delusional could serve as a commentary on the subjective nature of reality and the ways in which societal norms and expectations shape our perceptions. The film could challenge viewers to question their own assumptions about sanity and madness, inviting them to consider how social constructs influence our understanding of mental health and behavior. 

Soooo, overall, a horror film featuring a man being killed by a woman who is depicted as crazy and delusional has the potential to challenge conventions, spark important conversations about gender, mental health, and power dynamics, and provide representation for marginalized social groups. However, it's crucial that such themes are handled with care and sensitivity to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes or reinforcing oppressive narratives. :)

Intro Pt 2 Into the CCRs

So, it’s spring break.. which makes it harder for me to do my CCRS because I’m not in my usual environment.. I’m currently on a trip to my home country, El Salvador. 

I decided to make my first CCR on a “Come with me to my trip to El Salvador while I answer some FAQ”, where I’ll answer questions #3 and #4. 

I’m currently working on them, so I won’t be able to provide too much information today on this blog until I have everything more organized.

An obstacle is that it is so difficult to memorize.. it has taken me a million takes to get one good video. I will be posting a bloopers video when I’m done;)

^Pic of me stressing

These are my first 2 answers to question 3!:

3

- How’d you start and end?

I started this project with basic knowledge on how to film. i wasn't a professional, but i had done a few projects before. i also started with not very good editing skills, as i had only edited one project before. i was excited to work on this project, but really nervous. i had a dream on the story of my project and i started working from there.

i ended my project with a lot more knowledge on filming, especially editing, which i wasn't very good at before. i tried new things out and learned plenty of new techniques on sound, shots, and editing. i am overall happy with the result, i believe it's pretty good for my first solo project!

3

- Evolve

My skills and product evolved throughout the film a lot. This was my first solo project, so I had to learn how to take charge of every position.. not only one.

Also, my knowledge on shots, techniques, editing, etc evolved a lot because I tried new things out.

1, also, upgraded the equipment I used. I used a better editing app and better settings on my phone to make the camera quality look better.

Here are some clips of how the quality of my projects has evolved.

Anyways, I’m still not sure what I’ll do for the other CCR.. will be updating soon! See you very soon.

Editing The Creepy Film

 This is my first time editing a project completely by myself.. and I am SCAREDD.

I used an app my friend D recommended me.. she told me it had amazing features and it was really easy to use. The name of it is VN. And to be honest, she was right! It was a really easy app to use and manage (especially as someone who doesn’t have a lot of experience editing).

^This is a screenshot of the app logo

I had to edit so much of the sound because of all of my family's background noises.. but, thankfully I was able to edit all of it off. It took hourssss, but I was able to do it after a gazillion tries. 

I also filmed a few of my own foley sounds because the ones on the actual video didn’t work out due to the background noise or other reasons. (I forgot to take pics.. I’m sorry!)

And, I used one sound from YouTube.. it was the clock ticking. This is the link: https://youtu.be/cmYckOnnDow?si=2Gb31PZLXwwoQHcU

^This is a picture of some the sounds we recorded

I had to explore around the app, but I didn’t really have any obstacles.. it was just a really long time consuming process. 

Overall, I really enjoyed editing! I definitely improved my skills by a lot! And I love how the project turned out! I started editing around 9pm and finished at 1:30am. I will be releasing soon;))

^This is a picture of me when I started editing (9pm)

^This is a picture of me when I finished editing (1:30am)

(I switched locations from my studio to my bed haha)

BTW, I will be asking classmates and family members for peer reviews this week. So, this isn’t like the FINAL project, yet. I still got some bits of editing and fixing to do of things I probably missed the first time. 

Yippe! I’m so happy:)) See you soon!! Next time I’ll be talking about my CCRs and what I finally decided to do!

Filming The Horrendous Film

After all of this planning and research.. 

I finally filmed everything and got all the shots I needed!

I filmed from 3:45PM-8:30PM!! And it was a success:)

I had a few friends help me.. so HUGE thanks for all of their help and support throughout this project.

I had R help with lights, C with microphones and makeup, M as an actress, C as an actor, V is an actress and helper of setting up the props and decoration.

First, right after school we headed over to the nearest supermarket (Publix!) and bought all the goodies (veggies, sauce, etc) to make the pasta and salad in the film.

^This is a picture of me picking the veggies:)

Then, we set up a beautiful dinner table;) ( I forgot to take a pic:'( )

I tried a variety of new shots and techniques! I was able to handle it pretty well. 

Some of the shots changed, as they looked better in my head than when we actually filmed.

I filmed soo much and I got some incredible shots (hehe.. you have to wait to see them)

^These are some pics of me filming/directing!

I had a few obstacles, though..

My brother was in the same room and he wouldn't stop being annoying. He didn't stop interrupting the shots with little fart noises he made with his mouth or shoes. It pissed me off so much and made me explode. He wouldn't take anything serious and kept distracting everyone. I literally got a PERFECT shot and he ruined it with his stupid noises.. I couldn't get a better shot, so I'll have to figure something out and fix it with editing. Also, R was also distracted and didn't stop fooling around.. but I was able to manage him a bit better. It only took 6 screams, 2 arguments, and 1 banning to get everything under control.. (I banned my brother from being in the same room). 

Also, towards the end, my mom had to cook dinner (irl.. because it was already 8pm..), so the audio of the main character feeding the man is terrible.. there's loud background noise of my mom cooking. My dad also kept going in and out, so there are noises of doors opening and closing:/ . My parents kept rushing me, which made me so stressed.

^This is a pic of me extremely annoyed;0

Otherwise, everything went good! I just need to figure things out with editing.

Overall, the shots looked amazing and I can't wait to edit and see the final product.

^This is a screenshot of some of the shots I took!

Getting Ready to Film a Terrible Film!

HAPPY ST. PATTY's DAY!!!!

 So, I'm starting the film tomorrow. I had few issues and had to change my plan..

One of my actors and one of my helpers cancelled, which meant I needed to find a last minute actor and another set of hands. Luckily, I was able to do this as I desperately asked some friends to help me. 

I also wasn't able to get hands on a drone:(

But! I have other ideas to set a setting shot (like driving around the suburbs or walking)

I'm going grocery shopping tomorrow and I'll buy some pasta for the main character to cook. 

I'll also steal some stuff from my kitchen and fridge.. 

All my characters are bringing their own stuff and outfits tomorrow, so I'll be able to provide more info and details on everything then!

So, today's blog is short.. but this week's will have a LOT more to talk about:) AND PICS!

Researching the Creepy Target Audience!

 I need to know my target audience.. and even though I know a bit about it, I decided to do a deeper research, so I can include it in my CCR. 

The target audience for horror films is diverse and encompasses individuals from various demographics, but there are certain characteristics and traits that tend to be more prevalent among this audience:

1. Age Group: While horror films can appeal to audiences of all ages, there is a significant concentration among teenagers and young adults. This demographic is often drawn to the thrill-seeking nature of horror, as well as the rebellious appeal of consuming content that may be considered edgy.

2. Psychological Profile: The target audience for horror films often includes individuals who have a penchant for experiencing intense emotions. They may be more inclined towards seeking out adrenaline-inducing experiences and enjoy the rush of fear and suspense that horror movies provide.

3. Personality Traits: Research suggests that individuals with certain personality traits, such as openness to experience and sensation-seeking tendencies, are more likely to be drawn to horror films. These individuals may enjoy exploring the darker aspects of human nature and the unknown.

4. Cultural Background: While horror films have a universal appeal, cultural background can influence the specific preferences and interpretations of the audience. For example, different cultures may have varying attitudes towards superstition, folklore, and supernatural elements, which can shape their engagement with horror content.

5. Social Dynamics: The target audience for horror films may also be influenced by social factors, such as peer groups, family traditions, and community norms. Watching horror films can be a communal experience, with friends or family members coming together to share the thrill and excitement of being scared.

6. Psychological Needs: Individuals within the target audience may have specific psychological needs that are fulfilled by watching horror films. This can include the desire for catharsis, the need for arousal and excitement, or the exploration of existential themes related to mortality and the unknown.

Overall, the target audience for horror films is characterized by a diverse range of individuals who share a fascination with fear, suspense, and the macabre. While there may be common traits and motivations among this audience, it's essential to recognize that preferences and interpretations can vary widely based on individual differences and cultural context.

Lesson on CCR!

Recently in class we learned about the second part of our film project... the Creative Critical Reflection (CCR). The purpose of it is to reflect on our production, respond to questions, and express our personality!

We have to film 2 products and answer 2 questions in each in less than 10 minutes. I need to take a creative approach.. I can't just sit there and explain/answer. I need to move around, edit, make it silly, etc!

There's different approaches I can take, such as podcast, voiceover, etc. 

I, as well, need to reflect and demonstrate that I've learned. This is all a learning process, I need tp show how I've improved and all the different techniques I've been taught throughout the year. 

The questions I need to answer are: 

1) How does your product use or challenge conventions and how does it represent social groups or issues?

2) How does your product engage with audience and how would it be distributed as a real media text?

3) How did your production skills develop throughout the project?

4) How did you integrate technology, software, hardware, and online in the project?

I have a general idea of how I need to answer each one of these... (down below are my summaries of tips on how I should be answering these properly!)

1: I need to answer throughout genre, props, audio, visuals, etc. I need to incorporate pictures, videos, and creativity to answer and make it enjoyable. 

2: I need to answer who the target audience is... I need to conduct research on this! I need to show demographics, preferences, research, etc.

3: I need to explain how my project started and ended. Did it evolve? My research? My Plan? My Approach? How has everything changed (or not)? Include pics of myself throughout all of it!

4: I need to explain what I used. iPhone? Tripod? Canva? Blogger? etc... even the smallest things! How did these help me overcome my obstacles, help, how, and what?

I need to cite everything and include pics;)

I'm extremely excited to film these.. I have a few ideas!

Since next week spring break starts, I will be filming my CCRs in my trip to El Salvador. 

My 2 ideas are: "A Day with Me!" and "Interview!"

These are the explanations:

1- A Day with Me!: I will be touring my home country, El Salvador, and showing the beautiful area meanwhile explaining and answering the first two questions

2- Interview!: Someone will be interviewing me while taking a walk! 

I might change these ideas.. but I think they're pretty solid!  

Meh. Updates!

 I'm behind schedule because I've been sick for 3 weeks and I just recently returned to school.

I have soooo much makeup work and stuff to do!

I will be filming next week (hopefully it works out!) or the week after.

I am trying my best to make this work. 

Some small updates:

1- I asked my friend already if she can help me find a drone and she's working on it. 

She doesn't own one... but her friend does! And that friend kind of knows me, so we are like 99% sure he'll allow us to borrow it.

2- I have 2 potential leads (a good one and a bad one) that are willing to help me

I asked one of the sweetest theatre girls if she could help me (AND SHE SAID YASS). She'll be the lead woman of the film. SHE IS PERFECT FOR IT!!!!! 

Then, I begged my friend J (who's been in 1 of my past projects) to be the tortured man. He rolled his eyes and agreed... YASS A WIN IS A WIN! 

I have 2 actors. YIP YIP YIPPEEE!

^^THIS IS A TEXT OF ME BEING BOLD AND STRONG.

3- I have an extra set of hands. After hours of begging.. they agreed!

One of my best friends is going to hold the mics for the small bits of audio. And my other friend will be holding lights and stuff.

Also something extra.........

The film will also be focusing on the color red, I want to incorporate it as much as possible. I will try to make her heels red and her lipstick, as well.

BUT YASS. That's it. I don't have a lot to say today.. I'm just trying to get my stuff together. I will be posting a lot more (and better stuff) this upcoming week.

Thanks:,)

A Few Tips I've Been Gathering from the Pros

 I have a lot of friends who are EXTREMELY TALENTED in filming. 

So, I asked them for tips on what I should do for my film (which is coming up fairly soon..)

I asked for stuff that I should keep in mind and this is what I got!:

(They gave me a few tips and then I wrote some side notes and stuff, also)

1. Plan your shots:

   - Outline a script or shot list before you start filming. This helps you stay organized and ensures you capture all the necessary footage. Consider the framing, composition, and angles for each shot to convey the desired emotion.

2. Use a tripod:

   - A stable camera is essential for professional-looking footage. Invest in a good tripod to avoid shaky shots, especially if you're shooting without assistance.

3. Pay attention to lighting:

   - Natural light is often the most flattering, but be mindful of shadows and harsh sunlight. If shooting indoors, experiment with different light sources and angles to achieve the desired effect. Lamps, lights, and screens help.

4. Mind your audio:

   - Clear audio is crucial for a quality video. Use an external microphone whenever possible, and be mindful of background noise. Consider recording room tone for smoother audio editing.

5. Check your settings:

   - Familiarize yourself with your camera's settings, including resolution, frame rate, and white balance. Adjust these settings based on the look you want to achieve and the requirements of your project.

6. Focus on composition:

   - Follow the rule of thirds for balanced composition. Experiment with different framing techniques, such as leading lines and framing within the frame, to add visual interest.

7. Camera movement:

   - Use intentional camera movements to enhance your storytelling. Experiment with pans, tilts, and zooms, but avoid excessive or unnecessary movement that can distract the viewer.

8. Be mindful of continuity:

   - Pay attention to details like props, costumes, and the placement of objects to maintain continuity between shots. This helps create a seamless viewing experience. Make sure to film several shots over and over again at different angles.

9. Edit thoughtfully:

    - Be selective with your footage during the editing process. Trim unnecessary clips, use transitions wisely, and maintain a flow to keep your audience engaged.

10. Learn from others:

    - Watch films, documentaries, and videos to analyze different filming techniques. Identify what works well and try to incorporate those elements into your own work. (She then showed me some of her work and work in progress she has)

11. Practice and experiment:

    - The more you practice, the more confident you'll become in your filming skills. Don't be afraid to experiment with new techniques and styles.

They all told me to not be discouraged by initial challenges and enjoy the process.

These tips were extremely helpful and encouraged me! I am so lucky to have such amazing friends!

Creepy Storyboard

 This is my storyboard of how I'm imagining what each shot will look like!

Here are the pics of my drawings and the shots describing what's going on! 

I've already posted the descriptions sooo now these are just the visuals of it.

(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

-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! 

Horrendous Outfits, Props, and More

Happy March!

Creating a mise-en-scene for the opening of a horror/thriller film involves careful consideration of visual elements to establish an eerie atmosphere. 

Here are some ideas of things and elements I want to possibly (most likely) include in my film introduction:

1. Setting:

   - Dimly lit, normal looking house, so when the tortured man is shown it is a plot twist (Scary movie in disguise! It is a contrast).

   -Minimalistic, worn-out furniture and decor, emphasizing neglect and decay to create a visually unsettling environment.

2. Lighting:

   - Utilize low-key lighting to enhance shadows and create a sense of mystery and danger.

   - Incorporate flickering candlelight or a single harsh light source over the cooking area, casting disturbing shadows.

3. Color Palette:

   - Employ a desaturated color palette with cold tones to evoke a sense of dread and detachment.

   - Accentuate red hues in specific elements like the blood or the ingredients being used, creating a disturbing contrast.

4. Props:

   - Integrate a kitchen with unsettling items such as a butcher's knife or an antique cooking pot.

   - Include disturbing elements like a collection of sinister-looking spices or a cookbook with ominous titles.

5. Costumes:

   - Dress the serial killer woman in a seemingly ordinary outfit, such as a vintage apron or a floral dress, creating a stark contrast with her gruesome actions.

   - The tortured man can be disheveled, wearing torn clothing, highlighting his vulnerability.

6. Sound Design:

   - Use music with no words, just beats. Music controls the audience's emotions.

   - Enhance the tension through silence during critical moments, allowing the audience to focus on the disturbing actions taking place.

7. Cinematography:

   - Employ unsettling camera angles and movements, such as low angles looking up at the killer, or handheld shots to create an uneasy experience.

   - Experiment with tight close-ups on the killer's face, capturing subtle expressions, such as her wide creepy smile, that hint at her sinister nature.

8. Symbolism:

   - Integrate symbolic elements like a twisted recipe book, with disturbing illustrations or handwritten notes hinting at her macabre culinary preferences.

   - Use religious or occult symbols subtly placed in the background to add depth to the character's dark motives.

9. Weather/Time of Day:

   - Consider a stormy or foggy night to add an extra layer of intensity.

   - Experiment with the use of moonlight or artificial light streaming through cracks in windows to create dramatic shadows.

10. Details:

    - Incorporate subtle details that hint at the killer's backstory, such as photographs, newspaper clippings, or personal belongings that reveal her twisted motivations.

The goal is to evoke a reaction from the audience and set the tone for the film. Balancing subtlety with explicit imagery can enhance the psychological horror of the opening scene.