Austen Nuttall's media AS Blog

Opening to a New Thriller Film - My group's Edits

2012-03-10T09:32:00.000-08:00

Opening to a New Thriller Film - My group's Edits

The videos below are mine and group member James Kent's edit to our "Opening to a New Thriller Film". We have both explored different techniques to editing clips. Our outcomes have been very different and also very unique. This leaves us with a better choice to decide on our final video to present to the exam board.

James' Edit:

Austen's Edit:

Question 1: In what ways does your media production use, develop, or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?

2012-03-06T07:10:00.016-08:00

Question 1:

In what ways does your media production use, develop, or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?

Images and Video to be added in finalised edit. Final represented in a prezi or maybe video.

At the beginning of the course, myself and James Kent (group member) discussed thoroughly how we could either challenge, use, and even develop specific conventions which are found in the thriller genre. We did this because we could then plan and develop our process professionally and effectively by discussing soundtrack, costume, location and finally how we could relate all of these to the thriller genre in some way. This would then ensure that our "Opening to a New Thriller Film" would be unique.

My group’s thriller “Death Watch” is set in a modern Briton. The cinematography which is used in "Death Watch" was primarily inspired by Carol Reed’s “The Third Man” (1958) and the use of chiaroscuro lighting. Our location was primarily inspired by the ending scene in "The Third Man" (1958), and the use of gritty marsh land in “Essex Boys” (2000).

One of the most iconic shots in our opening is the long tilted shot of a vanishing point with trees either side which both our characters walk down. This shot immediately establishes a connection between the ending scenes of “The Third Man” (1958) when Anna walks down the pathway towards the camera and away from the vanishing point. We've developed this shot and reversed it - the character(s) are walking towards the vanishing point instead which creates a scene of mystery - they are walking into the unknown.

My group decided to create two edits each, one in colour, and the other in black and white. This then increased our choices of a final outcome. I preferred to use black and white instead of colour, the reason behind this is because of the use of good natural ambient lighting which was captured on film. The ambient lighting created a unique chiaroscuro effect throughout the entire footage. By using black and white, the contrast in the two colours create a very bold eye catching depth of field within the mise-en-scene.

The gloomy dark depth of field can be seen as if its reinforcing the generic conventions of the thriller genre - developing the scrapyard/marshland and area into a representation of a 'Noir-film' period where shadows dominate within the mise-en-scene. This is to give an ominous and mysterious atmosphere, thus possibly increasing tension.

The opening scene of our thriller starts in a snowy location. The opening shots of the snow represent just how cold and chilling my group’s thriller will be. The snow will represent our thriller’s mood and atmosphere, much like the snowy location in the film “The Grey” (2012) – The snowy location in “The Grey” represents the wolves within the film. The wolves are represented to be cold-hearted, blood boiling, savage animals. The wolves establish the surrounding location to be dangerous, cold and frightening as the snow is their 'hunting ground'. The snow scenes are used to give an effect of time passing, this adds a sense of realism and a 'stalker'-type atmosphere. The predator is on the hunt, waiting for the right time to strike. Our first 'actual' shot is of the vanishing point, which establishes the location of the upcoming scenes and events.

The character's names within our thriller where very difficult to create. My group member and I then decided to use our own names. There where many reasons behind this, to start off with, by using our own names "Austen, and "James", our characters would be believable to the viewer. This is because 'over-ambitious' names would be unnecessary, preposterous and especially hard to believe.

Another reason behind this is that the name "James" is of a christian origin. The biblical name, "James" comes from "James the Just" who is mentioned to be the brother of Jesus. This felt suitable because our film is about two families. The two families could possibly relate to the loving relationship of brotherhood between James and Jesus. However, our film challenges this bond because the two families are in competition with each other, which will eventually leave Austen between the two opposing families and a possible threat. James sees an opportunity to 'stike' against his opposing family and their son Austen. This is then developing and challenging the idea and format of love between one another which can also represent the setting and characters of our film to have a 'survival of the fittest'-like characteristic. Thus resembles much likeness of the plot of "Animal Kingdom" (2010) and also the hierarchy status between each family member within the film.

The main character in our thriller is called “Austen”. Austen’s costume is very plain. He doesn’t wear many brightly coloured clothes, but is aware of the latest fashion and styles - the patterns on Austen's uncolorful top represent this. The costume choice took inspiration from “Joshua Cody’s” costume from "Animal Kingdom" (2010) because he wears similar styles of clothing.

Our second main character is called James. The introduction shot of James uses a low tilted angle shot looking upwards which suggests he has a very powerful presence which dominates over other characters. The cinematography of this particular shot was highly influenced by the worm’s eye view of ‘Noodles’ in “Once Upon a Time in America” (1984) and the tilted medium shot of 'Harry Lime' in the doorway in "The Third Man" (1958).

My group’s choice of location challenges the generic conventions of unglamourous claustrophobic settings which are found in the thriller genre. Examples of these generic conventions include the lavatories in “Witness”, the interior of motor vehicles in “Essex Boys” (2000) and lastly the tightly damp venerable space of the shower in “Psycho” (1960). Instead of using such generic locations, our group has challenged them by using wide open spaces which are not tight or claustrophobic, such as the long shot of the pathway in our production. Our characters do not fill the mise-en-scene in these 'clips'/scenes unlike the close ups of Marion Crane in “Psycho” (1960) and The Bride in the 2004 “Kill Bill Vol.2” (graveyard scene).

The use of wide open spaces in my group’s thriller is used to portray vulnerability yet still having a chance of escape. This resemble much likeliness of the use of wide open spaces which are found in “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” – the entire film is set in a wide open space, as well as the wide open barren-like locations used in “Animal Kingdom” (2010) and “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly”.

After challenging the generic conventions, my group used a generic location for the ending sequence. This was the use of a scrap-yard marshy area. We’ve taken inspiration from the marshland in “Essex Boys” (2000) and used it to represent a shift in mood. The mood shifts from an area which our character could escape from to a closer more tightly environment where our characters start to fill the entire mise-en-scene in close ups and extreme close ups, thus representing a sense of danger which increases tension much like the shower sequence in "Psycho" (1960).

Extreme and close ups featured in our film greatly, especially towards the ending of our opening. Close ups and extreme close ups are also a generic convention which are used in the thriller genre to restrict the audience's view, creating a more in depth profile of a certain character's view or even to show important props such as the close ups and extreme close ups of the brief case in "Pulp Fiction" (1994) and "Once Upon a Time in America" (1984).

Pulp Fiction - Brief case

Another iconic shot within our production was the use of the dolly zoom. The 'type' of dolly zoom which was chosen was of a character's emotions, highly inspired from a clip from "Jaws" (1975) *video*. This particular type of dolly zoom expressed the fear and terror of the character. Myself and James Kent attempted to feature this unique and visually unusual shot at the ending of our thriller opening because the dolly zoom strengthens the expressions and scare of the character at a specific moment. Our "Opening to a Thriller Film" would then cut to black suddenly, which leaves a 'jaw' dropping (no pun intended) ending which would leave the viewer in suspense to wherever or not our character Austen is alive - a key feature of a thriller film.

The font of our titles where highly inspired by the title sequence of “Essex Boys” (2000). The font used in my group’s thriller is represented in a way which would suggest that a teenager has sprayed graphite on a wall. This is to show the chaos and the stereotypical views of teenagers in modern Briton within our thriller opening.

“Essex boys” titles – Sean Bean.

My groups choice of soundtrack came from a website called http://incompetech.com/m/c/royalty-free/. The soundtrack is called "Interloper" and is by Kevin MacLeod.

* Link to play soundtrack*

The soundtrack which my group has used is very drum-based. The drums represent the heart beats of our characters within the mise-en-scene, but more focusing on our victim’s. The drum beats also strengthens the tension for the audience as some people, such as myself, do not like the sound of a heart beating. They find the sound very chilling and unnerving to listen to. The idea to use a drum-based soundtrack came from the two notes that play in the soundtrack for “Jaws” (1975). These also represent a similar feeling and sound of a heart-beating which the paste gaudily gets louder and quicker as danger approaches.

In conclusion, my group’s opening to a new thriller film uses a wide range of different techniques and intertextual references to media products, in particular the thriller genre which my group and I have studied. We have challenged the genre’s conventions in such a way that it almost reinforces the importance to have the audience in suspense. To use a wide open space as a location which some may see as a kind of “safety area” which our character could possible escape from, yet still using the feeling and mood of venerability is very bold move against the thriller conventions. I believe that my group and I have been successful establishing the meaning of the location, the slight intertextual references and lastly the iconic shots which gives our thriller a unique personality.

How is the Femme Fatatle represented in "Inglourious Basterds"

2012-03-04T07:18:00.000-08:00

How is the Femme Fatatle represented in
"Inglourious Basterds" (2009)
(Independent research into the Thriller Genre)

Shosanna Dreyfus

"Inglourious Basterds" (2009) is directed by Quentin Tarantino. Tarantino has established one of the characters, Shosanna Dreyfus from his anti-Nazi feature film "Inglourious Basterds" (2009) as a 'Femme-Fatale'. The definition of a 'Femme-Fatale' is:

1. A woman of great seductive charm who leads men into compromising or dangerous situations.

2. An alluring, mysterious woman.

Source: http://www.thefreedictionary.com/femme+fatale

'Femme-Fatatles' often meet a dramatic end within cinema, which was often found in classic Film-Noir titles. The possible reason for this explanation is that the directors and produces of these films wanted to send a message to women of that era. If women acted as the women characters found in their films - seductive, glamorous, and other such characteristics, then they would also meet the same dramatic and an un-glamorous end.

Please ignore the soundtrack used in these video(s) below.

I could not find the correct clip, however, they have the correct elements/scenes from the film which I will be explaining in this post. I will be labeling these sections.

Please watch the video(s).

The character shown in the extract wears a bright red dress for costume. The colour red could possibly represent 'the Devil inside' of her.

This could represent how she leads men into dangerous situations. An example of this dangerous situation is how her attractiveness leads a young German soldier to his death.

An example of a sedctive, dangerous woman wearing a red dress who meets a dramatic end is from "Sin City" (2005).

Shosanna Dreyfus starts to put on makeup and red lipstick in a range of medium and extreme close ups (0:54). The makeup and lipstick are an aspect of the character's costume. The red lipstick and makeup could represent the character has a seductive charm about her.

The character's hair colour is blond. Hair colour is also part of a character's costume. The possible reason behind using blond hair is that it is often used to represent a glamorous Femme-Fatatle within the genre. Blond hair suggests that the character is looking for a 'good time'.

to be continued

Font Type for Titles

2012-03-01T04:31:00.008-08:00

Font Types for Titles

Below are two images which portray the type of font which I will be using in my edit for the "Opening for a New Thriller Film". I have typed out the alphatbet in both capitals and lower case to show the differences between the two. This is very important because then I can choose either to have the titles in capitals which would be very bold and eye catching or 'normally', by using a capital and then lower case. For example, I will use the name "working title" to visually show the difference.

"WORKING TITLE"
"Working Title"

The font is called "321impact". The font is very bold. This is useful as then it'll hopefully capture the audience's adtention.
The font choice was inspired by the font and style of the mise-en-scene used in the title sequence of "Essex Boys" (2000). The style of font which I have chosen is very 'gritty'. The look of the font can be represented as if a teenager has used a spary can to display the words onto a wall as graffiti art. Much like the vertical lines used in the title sequence of "Essex Boys" (2000).

Soundtrack

2012-02-29T06:01:00.005-08:00

Soundtrack

I've found great soundtracks from http://incompetech.com/m/c/royalty-free/. I have found a piece of music which is called "Interloper". All soundtracks/music scores are produced by Kevin MacLeod, unless otherwise stated. The below images are evidence of investigating soundtracks and a few common Q&As (questions and awnsers) which Kevin has created which may possibly affect my group's opening to a new thriller film production. Please click on each image to enlarge them so they are then readable.

Second Edit to "Opening to a New Thriller Film"

2012-02-25T12:34:00.001-08:00

Second Edit to "Opening to a New Thriller Film"

The video below is my version of editing of my group's "Opening to a New Thriller Film". This is our second edit so far. This edit includes our most recent shots that include the snow.

I plan to add more titles and effects, such as video transitions to finalise this version of my edit. There are a number of cuts which are to be made as the 'snow' scene felt as if it has just been put into the opening to make it longer. Prehaps I could add titles between each shot to make it look more dramatic and professional.

Intertextuality - Kill Bill Vol.2 and The Good, Bad, Ugly

2012-02-25T10:01:00.022-08:00

Tarantino's use of Intertextuality in "Kill Bill Vol.2" with

"The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly"

Intertextuality:

Intertextuality in films is used to enhance a meaning and purpose within a clip and to communicate with the audience about possible upcoming events. The intertextual reference can reference almost anything from a media production such as film, T.V show, drama production, musicals, books and even comic books!

An intertextual reference could be the film itself aswell. For example, "Donnie Darko (2001)" was filmed within 28 days. The amount of time is important as it is an intertextual reference to what Frank - The Bunny Rabbit tells Donnie within the film. Frank tell's Donnie that he only has 28 days until a doomsday event.

An example of a 'comic book' reference can be names of character's. In comic books, the names of characters often use the same initials for their first and second names, a technique used by writers to make sure you remember a character. For example: "Donnie Darko", "Joanie James", and "Sean Smith". Resemble much likeness of the names "Peter Parker", "Black Blot" and "Madame Masque". By using the same initials the character(s) are being represented as superhero-like individuals.

Intertextual references can often include:

Similar scenes

Representation of a character

Sound

Same soundtrack

Iconic camera angles - such as Quinton Tarantino's "low angle car boot shots"

Plot

Dialogue

Costume

Location

Quentin Tarantino:

Quentin Tarantino for example uses many intertextual references in his films. He frequently references to cult movies and television, such as the Spaghetti Western and part of the "The Dollar's Trilogy" - "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly (1966)" which is directed by Sergio Leone. Tarantino also refers to films which he has directed himself. He often includes a low angle shot which feature main characters looking down directly at the camera. These characters tend to be looking into a car boot or suitcase. This is Tarantino's iconic shot which he tries to use in all films he directs - the shot then communicates with the audience to tell them that the film is decided by Tarantino. This type of shot is his 'trademark'.

Examples of Tarantino's low angle shot:

Death Proof (2007)

Reservoir Dogs (1992)

Jackie Brown (1997)

Pulp Fiction (1994)

Kill Bill Vol.1 (2003)

Quentin Tarantino also tries to include a "Mexican Standoff" in each of this films. Thus referring to the ending of "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly (1966)" when it was introduced into films. The "Mexican Standoff" is when three or more individuals engage in a confrontation where each participant holds power over an opponent, yet is at mercy with another opponent. Below are examples of Tarantino's reference:

Reservoir Dogs (1992)

True Romance (1993)

Pulp Fiction (1994)

Graveyard Scene in Kill Bill Vol.2:

Tarantino's most recognizable intertextual reference to Sergio Leone's films is the use of the soundtracks from "The Dollar's Trilogy". The first soundtrack is used in the opening sequence of the "Graveyard" scene in Kill Bill Vol.2 when The Bride confronts Bud. The soundtrack is called "A Fistful of Dollars" which is from the first film in the trilogy. It's very powerful and heroic. It represents The Bride's entrance being associated with the heroic-ness of "The Good" (Blondie), but then being kicked back down to a low hierarchy statues by Bud because he is seen towering above her while she is laying on the ground.

Tarantino uses a graveyard to establish the surrounding area as being lifeless, barren-like and desolate just like a desert. By doing this, the character The Bride is represented as if she has no chance of being rescued. She is at the mercy of a character called Bud (Bill's brother) whose archetype is represented as being "The Ugly". Just like how Tuco captures Blondie, and then forces him to walk across the desert - which is lifeless, barren and desloated, just like the graveyard.

The title of "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly" explains the three main character-archetype of Sergio Leone's western:

"The Good" - Blondie. Blondie is the main hero of the film. In Kill Bill Vol.2, The Bride is the hero and thus being represented as "The Good". This archetype is the 'good guy'.

"The Bad" - Sentenza (aka "Angle Eyes"). Sentenza is the main villain of the film and emery to Blondie. In Kill Bill Vol.2, Bill is represented as being "The Bad". He is emery to The Bride. This archetype is the 'bad guy'.

"The Ugly" - Tuco. "The Ugly" is full of greed and is found between "The Good" and "The Bad". This is Bill's brother Bud.

The location of the graveyard in Kill Bill Vol.2 can be seen as an intertextual reference because the scene then cuts to a graveyard in the 'middle of nowhere' - a barren-like area. This could also be seen as an intertextual referecne to "Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" (2007). 'Jesse James' is mainly set in fields and barren-like locations. This could be an intertextual reference to "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly" because of the use of a desent-like area as a location. The costume in 'Jesse James' is also very similar to the type of westen costume used in "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly", perhaps it inspired the costume for 'Jesse James' and many other westerns.

The costume which The Bride wears during the graveyard sceen can also be seen as a slight intertextual reference to Blondies' costume in "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly". The close up shot of the 'cowboy' boots that The Bride wears this is intertextual reference.

To be continued.

Investigating Soundtrack - Investigating Copyright

2012-02-21T12:18:00.014-08:00

Investigating Soundtrack - Investigating Copyright

Myself and James where originally going to use soundtracks from www.freeplaymusic.com. We both carefully looked at their licence agreements on their website to figure out if we can, or can not use tracks from the site. We found this process rather difficult, so we then decided to e-mail Mr.Seal (one of the media studies teachers) to help us investigate this important issue.

Below I have embedded the content from the emails. Please click on the Show/Hide (spoiler bar) buttons to display these images. The please click the image to enlarge the selection. This then means that the content is readable.

Alliteratively, open one image up. Then use Blogspot's viewing option by clicking on the arrows on either side.

Please notice that the screen shots have been edited to hide any personal information that should not be shared publicly - such as email addresses, specific names, places, personal information such as date of birth and postcode addresses unless given authorized permission was/is granted. (If any more information that needs to be covered e.g. "g.seal". Please message me via an email and I will proceed to do so).

Images are at bottom of post. (Please view images at this stage. Thank you).

The result is rather disappointing, and rather costly if we chose to pay the fee! However, Myself and James have other possible choices for soundtrack's which use a Creative Commons licence.

Myself and James' progress is very stable. Because our clips are around 95% completed in editing them together, we can start to focus on fonts of titles and finding/using more possible soundtracks.

Editing Progress

2012-02-20T02:56:00.006-08:00

Editing Progress

Myself and James continued to edit on the school's computers today (20th Feb 2012) and it was very successful. We applied a black and white filter to our clips. We applied a b/w filter because we believe the contrast in these two colours (black and white) create a stronger mood in the mise-en-scene and also establishes a 'gritty' and 'dark' theme throughout.

We also managed to include scenes which we recently filmed in this edit. These are the scenes which featured the characters Austen and James in a snowy location. This then extended our opening to a total duration of 1minute 50secs (about), whereas without these clips it was 1minute 20sec.

A vast improvement indeed!

New Footage/New Scenes

2012-02-13T13:33:00.001-08:00

New Footage/New Scenes

Myself and James have recently filmed new footage to extend our "Opening To A New Thriller Film" as we needed to have a longer viewing time. These new shots include both the victim - Austen, and his 'follower' - James.

These new shots where filmed in a snowy outdoor location. Because the location is completely different and also the weather and costume, our opening film has a sense of movement in time.

By doing this, we can tell our audience that James has been following Austen for a long time whereas originality we had no explanation about the pair's relationship and past. This will then build up a deeper feeling of tension and suspense to the film's climax as James gets closer and closer to Austen.

Playlist can be found on YouTube using this link:
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAA5C38EEC83C01FA&feature=mh_lolz

(Please note: Do not stop the video.
It'll automatically show/play the next video after the first has finished and so on)
(Total duration: 1:56)

If The Soundtrack Choice Isn't 'Right'?

2012-02-04T15:29:00.004-08:00

What Happens If The Soundtrack

Choice Isn't 'Right'?
(Independent research)

This post relates back to my eailer post named:

"The Importance of an 'Excellent' Soundtrack Within a Film"
This post can be viewed HERE.

It also includes information about the opening of Jackie Brown (1997).
You can view my case study HERE.

If the soundtrack used with a selected clip doesn't fit well, or even isn't even 'right' for the scene, then the whole atmosphere, mood, setting, and mise-en-scene is completely lost.

For example, the opening of "Jackie Brown" (1997) uses an upbeat, powerful, and jazz-like non-diegectic soundtrack called "Across 110th Street" by Bobby Womack (birth name: Bobby Dwayne Womack). It immediately establishes the character of Jackie Brown as being glamorous, upbeat and lively.

However, thanks to the director Quentin Tarantino, he has offered an alternative opening sequence in the DVD extras.

He uses the opening to represent the film very differently. He shows us that if a different soundtrack was used, the whole opening loses the correct atmosphere and setting for the rest of the film. The opening of a film is very important as it hooks the audiences' attention.

Instead, he shows the film's genre as being more a comedy because of Jackie Brown's comical movements and by using "Miserlou" by "Dick Dale" as the soundtrack. Whereas the original is very serious because Jackie Brown is standing still without movement because she is working
(has a job) and moving along a treadmill.

Even through the alternative soundtrack is also very upbeat and powerful due to the use of an electric guitar and the paste of the music, it may capture her upbeat personality, however it still doesn't exactly 'capture' Jackie Brown's characteristics. Whereas in the original, the audience finds it very hard to read Jackie Brown as her facial expression and pose is very neutral.

This is why it is important to pick the correct type of soundtrack to use in mine and James' thriller opening. To keep the audience in suspense and wanting to watch the rest of the film to find out more information about the characters, story, and even how the genre of the film is represented.

The Third Man (1949)

2012-02-04T09:34:00.005-08:00

The Third Man (1949)

"Pulp novelist Holly Martins travels to shadowy, postwar Vienna, only to find himself investigating the mysterious death of an old friend, black-market opportunist Harry Lime." - IMDb

"The Third Man" is a British production which was released in 1949. Directed and produced by Carol Reed. It's a classic example of a black and white noir-film thriller because of the use of chiaroscuro lighting, unique silhouette arrangements and lastly by the use of very bold tilt shots throughout the film. The target audience of this film is likely to be middle aged males rather then females. The film's appeal to males is that of the mystery in the story as well as the main characters being males having anti-hero characteristics.

The opening to "The Third Man" consists of titles with an extreme close up of a musical interment. This musical instrument is called a Zither. The camera shows the Zither playing the official soundtrack/theme tune of the film. This scene lasts for around 2 minutes. These 2 minutes is for the audience to settle down and to get engaged with the film. The titles also show the actresses' and actor's roles. Nowadays, these titles/credits are usually shown at the end of the film. By having this very repetitive soundtrack, it builds up suspense for the audience.

The use of the Zither can be seen as a cultural signifier. It also represents the characteristic archetype of "Harry Lime" - one of the main characters. The use of the strings represents how Harry 'plays' with people, especially his friends. The soundtrack also creates an evoking feeling of dangerous intention and mystery, another characteristic of Harry Lime. - If you have seen the film before, then this should make sense, if not, It'll be explained later on in this post

Close up of a pair of hands smuggling watches. The watches can represent the film's location as being corrupted and dangerous. This is because the shot shows the illegal acts of a black market within the mice-en-scene. This is then backed up by an appearance of a mysterious body floating in a river bank in the next scene. The body also represents corruption and the genre of the film. The ship is tilted which can suggest distress because the ship is not levelled properly in the water - it is sinking, much like the moral of the people. Lastly, the glass can represent Vienna as being fractured into broken sections - this is explained later in more detail about the film's historical setting.

The body is in complete darkness with no way of identifying who he or she is. This adds mystery and suspense to the scene. The body and ship are 'abandoned' and have been 'dumped' into the river. This tells the audience that the area is a dangerous place to be around and sets the atmosphere of the film's genre.

The whole river bank looks very marshland-like because of the use of natural ambient lighting. I see this as an intertextual reference to "Essex Boys" (2000) when a male character beats up a man and leaves him beside the marshland to possibly die and 'float' away. The bodies are also both solid black silhouettes within the mise-en-scene.

The camera cuts to a handful of establishing shots of the film's historical setting and location - Vienna. These shots each differentiate between close ups and medium shots. One in particular is very important to establish the film's historical period and setting. This is the scene which the camera shows the flags and soldiers from the British, Russian, America (U.S) and French armies. This then tells the audience that there is tension within the city because of the battle between ownership, and that the film is historically set just before the beginning of The Cold War (approx. 1945-1991).

The film introduces a character called Holly Martins, who is looking for his friend Harry Lime, only to find out that Harry Lime has been killed. Holly's costume is like a detective-like suit/outfit, for example, the children's T.V. show Inspector Gadget. The long dark tweed coat and trilby hat has influenced many films, for example "Once Upon A Time In America" (1984). Because of this type of costume, it is seen as a generic convention within the thriller genre.
.

Holly walks under a ladder that is located outside Harry's apartment. Walking under a ladder is an old superstition of getting bad luck. The director Carol Reed uses this superstition of bad luck to tell the audience about possible events and possible future events. Another example of this representation of an object is the reflection of lights on a car window in "Essex Boys" that look like jail bars. This is to portray a future event which the characters could be going to jail.

Holly arrives at Harry's apartment only to find an old German man who speaks very little English. Carol Reed uses this technique of language to make the audience feel uncomfortable. This is done by using no sub-titles when the pair exchange dialogue to make the audience be in the same 'boat' as Holly. The camera angles between the character's dialogue are mostly tilted close ups which create a feel of disorientation and confusion - much like the pair's conversation. The high angle shots of looking down at Holly shows his vulnerability. Because of this, it then adds suspense and tension to wherever or not if Holly understands the old German man for the audience.

During the film, Holly becomes friends a character called Anna. Anna is represented as being very intriguing and subtle, much like the Mona Lisa portrait. Anna is also shown as being mysterious, puzzling and having clam body language towards the audience, again, much like the Mona Lisa portrait.

Holly has been searching for his friend Harry Lime, suspecting that Harry wasn't killed at all. Holly's expectations then become very clear to him - Harry was playing a trick on everyone, just as if hes 'playing' with them. Much like the murder mystery "Cludo" board game. The appearance of Harry Lime is very cinematically famous. The tilted shot of the archway is very haunting, mysterious and very Gothic due to the use of chiaroscuro lighting and the diegectic sound of a cat's "meow" - Cats are often associated with witches, hence the Gothic appeal.

Holly taunts the doorway, suspecting someone is there. The tone and words used in the dialogue:

"Cat got your tongue?...C'mon out..........Come out, come out, whoever you are!"

Reminds me very much of:

"Come out, come out, wherever you are!" (1:04)

From the film "Cape Fear" (1991). This can be see as an intertextual reference between the two films as both characters use similar dialogue in a similar situation - a man looking for another man.

Another intertextual reference was used in the BBC 1 production "Sherlock" (2010+) (series 2 ending). This is by the use of a vehicle. The car in The Third Man stops Holly Martins reaching Harry Lime. By the time Holly reaches the position where Harry was standing, Harry has mysteriously disappeared into the dark noir doorway as if by magic. The intertextual reference is by the use of a vehicle (or a 'mode of transport') that obscures a character's view and reaching their goal to aid and help the other character.

Something Local - Epic Studios (Norwich)

2012-02-02T10:22:00.003-08:00

Something Local - Epic Studios

In recent 'local' news, "Epic Studios" in Norwich, Norfolk, has been bought by the company "Extreme Video" owned by Jonathan Thursby.

EDP24: http://www.edp24.co.uk/business/norwich_based_tv_company_steps_in_to_buy_epic_studios_from_norfolk_county_council_1_1195572

I'm creating this post because I briefly mentioned that I did work experience at Epic Studios in one of My previous posts called "Media Questionnaire". This was for the G321 Preliminary Task. This post can be reviewed HERE.

I'm labeling this post into "G332B Film Industry" as it is about two media companies and changing ownership, whereas G321 Thriller Research or other labels would feel inappropriate.

Here is the only possible evidence I can find at the moment of my placement:

Note (click for a larger view):

Here is my response (on left).

Even through the image of the email on the left says that the "dates" that I "requested" where "unavailable". Helen kindly offered if any alternative dates where available. I then asked for April 12th -16th (2010). Epic Studios kindly accepted my placement afterwards.

The following bullet points explain more detailed background information about the great times I had while working at Epic Studios during April 2010 (12th -16th), which is not previously mentioned or just briefly mentioned in the questionnaire:

I had the pleasure of meeting David Hazel, his wife Helen Hazel and the rest of 'the gang'. David is the Manager, however, I'm not sure if his role has or will continue from my times at Epic Studio.
Throughout the week I used many different skills such as listening, suggesting ideas and razing opinions about a new TV program in production. This was very useful to them as the show was targeted at my age range. David personally said that my thoughts where very useful because they're from a teenager’s point of view.
Interesting fact:
While on a tour of the studios, David told me that if all of the stage lights, in only one of their studios where turned on at full power, that the energy used would burn a whole rainforest. (No information about the actual size, but I remember this purely from memory).
I helped by 'sweeping' one of the studio's floor for a set to be put up the following day. I also helped by setting up the set. The 'builders' and I created a time lapse video with one of their cameras to prove that they're doing their job. This was a very interesting incite into the production work of sets. We had a great time while setting up the set. We pretended to be 'robots' for a little while because then the time lapse video will capture these comical movements. I learnt that media production is not just serious, but also a fun and exciting area to work.

The set which we put up was for the upcoming "Frank Skinner’s Opinionated" to air on BBC 2 from 25th March 2011.
On Wednesday, Myself and David moved a piece of technical equipment to the BBC Studios in the Forum.
On Thursday we filmed a "Mark Wells" at County Hall.
On my last day, we filmed auditions. These where for being presenter's for an Internet fashion competition called "Event Dog". David and I moved and set up a camera for the auditions. David then showed me how to use and set up an 'Alto-Q' and the phase "Hello World".

Eventdog bringing a blend of live internet TV, direct from Epic Studios in Norwich. Using and supporting new local talent within music and fashion. - Eventdog, Twitter.

#Information/sources from word docs and various emails.

Filming (30th/01/2012) - New Scenes

2012-01-30T14:03:00.001-08:00

Filming (30th/01/2012) - New Scenes

Today, myself and James went to re-shoot one of our exciting shots as the original was slightly shaky. We also managed to film a few new scenes to make our "Opening to a New Thriller Film" longer.

These scenes included:

An extreme close up of eyes.
An extreme close up of breathing - with water vapor.
A tilted pan shot of a figure putting on gloves.
A van driving into, and out of our thriller location.
A scene where the victim is 'dragged' along the floor.

Below are the new scenes which myself and James filmed:

You can view the whole list of videos we filmed on the 30th/01/2012 on YouTube using the link below:
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL96D835AF46D75B68

1: Extreme close up of eyes

(Austen filmed)

Practice:

Final Version:

2: Extreme close up of breathing - with water vapor

(Austen filmed)

Version 1

The following two shots below might contain a slight movement. This is not an error. I did this on purpose. The reason why I did this was because as the scene is a close up of someone's mouth breathing, the movement with the camera represents the movement of the mouth as it breathes in, and outwards with them. This creates a sense of realism.

Version 2:

3: tilted pan shot of a figure putting on gloves

(Austen Filmed)

One take

Filming Evidence:

4: van driving into, and out of our thriller location

(Austen filmed)

(Number plate/s are NOT visible)

5: victim is 'dragged' along the floor
(James filmed)

We've chosen to include this shot as it'll build up suspense and create a cliff hanger at the end of our opening. We hope to cut to this shot after the 'dramatic' appearance of the titles - Thus creating a frightening cliff hanger to hook the viewer.

Oh the horror, the horror I tell you! The sacrifices I have to make for the

'magical' wonders of film making!

Mum should be pleased!

It's worth it through!

Filming (30th/01/2012) - Practice makes perfect

2012-01-30T12:56:00.001-08:00

Filming (30th/01/2012)

Comparing Visually - Old Shots With Re-Shoots

Today, myself and James went to re-shoot one of our exciting shots as the original was slightly shaky. We also managed to film a few new scenes to make our "Opening to a New Thriller Film" longer.

These scenes included:

An extreme close up of breathing - with water vapor.
An extreme close up of eyes.
A tilted pan shot of a figure putting on gloves.
A van driving into, and out of our thriller location.
A scene where the victim is 'dragged' along the floor.

Another post about these shots/scenes will be uploaded sometime soon. This is because this post is about comparing how my skills in filming have improved with a scene where our character called James (who is following the victim), has to walk along a pathway.

Here is the playlist link on YouTube for quick and easy access:
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL96D835AF46D75B68&feature=view_all

My ability to film has greatly improved. These where very tricky shots to pull off. This is because I almost had to lay down on the ground completely. However, in the end, the final shot which I filmed turned out to be the best so far out of the lot.

To prove how difficult it was, please divert your attention to the following image on your right.

Original Scene:

All Re-shoots Of The Above Scene:

(Please note: Do not stop the video.
It'll automatically show the next video after the first has finished and so on)

Final Try - Best Shot

This was the best re-shoot scene I filmed. I manged to manually focus it on time and also the camera isn't as shaky as in the previous shots - practice makes perfect. Myself and James wanted the scene to have a slight tilt of a tree stump in focus, then I'd focus onto the pair of feet/legs that enter the scene. This would draw the audience's attention onto the pair of feet to show their significance within the thriller opening. I managed to pulled this off with very careful timing and a lot of practice.

Well, isn''t this a coincidence? - Intertextuality

2012-01-27T13:26:00.005-08:00

"Animal Kingdom" Meets "Funny Games":
Intertextuality in the Film's Trailers
(Independent research)

Earlier on My blog, I created a post about the film "Animal Kingdom (2010)" as part of our visit to Cinema City and also G321 Thriller Research which I commented about the use of generic characteristics, locations, memorable scenes, certain characters which stood out for me and lastly my favorite camera angles/shots. This post can be viewed HERE.

Now, I wish to add to this post by exploring the intertexulity of how the trailer has been edited as a whole as well for good practise for identifying intextuality within a film or trailer.

The trailer for Animal Kingdom starts off with titles which present the main advertisement of the film's appeal - Winner of Sundance. Also, another major advertisement which sells the film is by using a non-diegetic dialogue from the highly popular Guy Peace (who actually plays a minor role in the film). This then ensures any fans of Guy Peace will possibly go and watch the film because he is in it.

The slow editing at the beginning of the trailer for Animal Kingdom reminds me of a trailer for a film called "Funny Games" (2007). Both trailers seem to use slow editing which leads up to a dramatic climax at the end.

On top of this, both trailers use a fast editing paste when displaying key words between clips to give the trailer more depth and tension. The font used in both trailers is very bold which will catch the audience's eye. A very important colour is seen within the trailer for "Funny Games" and that is the colour red.

Red is used in film advertising to give a certain area of the poster or trailer significance. For example, the posters for "Tinker, Trailer, Soldier Spy" (2011) use the colour red to indicate certain 'code' words such as "Spy" and "Tinker" to look out for. These words relate to the film itself. Red isn't just used in "Tinker, Trailer, Soldier Spy", it is also used in many other films, along with the colours black and white to give a strong impact on the audience/viewer of the poster:

Also, if you haven't noticed already, both trailers use a well recognized soundtrack which adds to the film's appeal towards the audience. The soundtrack used in "Animal Kingdom" is called "I'm All Out Of Love" by "Air Supply". The trailer uses the highly memorable chorus:

"I'm all out of love, I'm so lost without you.
I know you were right believing for so long.
I'm all out of love, what am I without you?
I can't be too late, to say that I was so wrong."

The trailer for "Funny Games" uses a similar technique. However, this is by the soundtrack alone. The soundtrack of course is "In the Hall of the Mountain King" by "Edvard Grieg". It is a piece of music which is highly likely to appear in comedy films. For example, the same soundtrack is present in "Jack and Jill" (2011) trailer due to its paste and comical sound. However, "Funny Games" is not a comedy.

The soundtrack also represents how the trailer is edited and speeds up at the same time. This is used to create growing tension and suspense until the end. Just like how "Animal Kingdom" uses dramatic sounds when titles appear.

"In the Hall of the Mountain King" by "Edvard Grieg":

Rough Edit - Opening to a New Thriller Film

2012-01-25T14:19:00.010-08:00

Rough Edit - "Opening to a New Thriller Film"

After myself and James filmed the majority of our "Opening to a New Thriller Film", James had a go at editing a rough draft.

We still have 2 or 3 more scenes to film so that the opening has a longer viewing time, as it is quite short at the moment at only around 1:25 minutes long. Also we need to take more care when trying to do tracking/pan shots as these contained very shaky camera movements. On the bright side, at least we have a few more ideas which we can film and hopefully expand the viewing time to around a target of 1:40 minutes.

We've created both a colored and black and white version. Myself and James have both agreed that the black and white version creates a stronger mood within the mise-en-scene and adds depth to our shots. We have chosen to use black and white from now on.

The black and white creates a dark mysterious atmosphere and setting then it did in colour. Because of this, we can relate our opening as a very strong intertextual reference to "The Third Man" because of the use of good chiaroscuro lighting and the use of a vanishing point along a pathway with trees either side.

This is only a brief rough edit to see what our film actually looks like. We've done this so that Myself and James can see what needs improvement and to visualize how we'd like our final outcome to look.

We hope to finalize our edit sometime in the near future, with the addition of a sound effect that consists an "answering machine sound/voice" for when the victim trys to call home or a friend yet gets no response, or even having someone call the 'victim'. We hope this will add more tension and suspense to the opening.

We may also cut and edit clips to be either included or not, plus any re-shoots which we need to do and with the additions of any new scenes. These will be included in a second edit which will be uploaded sometime in the future.

Notice:

Final edit will have a higher picture quality.
Our finalized edit will also include a soundtrack.

Colour version:

Black and White Version:

An Inspirational Idea

2012-01-25T11:11:00.001-08:00

Dolly Zoom?

While filming, myself and James attempted to recreate the dramatic camera technique - The Dolly Zoom.

I came up with an inspiring idea while filming which could/would replace a close up of the "murderer's" face. Instead, we'll have a Dolly Zoom onto the "victim's" face to show his response because he looked at the "murderer" who is about to hit and make the victim unconscious.

Because of this change, it'll create an enigma similar to the Shark used in "Jaws (1975)" - to use the imagination of the audience to create their own interpretation of how the "murderer's" face looks like, instead of showing it which we where originally going to do. By using the audience's imagination, the whole opening and scene becomes far more threatening and personal to the viewer as they could possibly imagine a figure from one of their nightmares.

The Dolly Zoom attempts to undermine normal visual perception. It is achieved when the camera moves towards an object, while zooming out at the same rate and time, and also vise-versa.

This technique was firstly seen in "Alfred Hitchcock's" psychological thriller film "Vertigo". However, the first appearance of a Dolly Zoom onto a character's face to portray emotion such as shock was purely unique to "Jaws".

We've chosen to try and include this shot as it's very effective to show a character's facial expressions and emotions, whereas other shots are not dramatically effective.

The most recognized example of this wonderful shot is from "Jaws (1975)". It's used to show the lifeguard's (actor: Roy Scheider's) emotion and fright when he sees the shark attack. The shot adds dramatic tension for the audience and scene.

Many thanks to group member James Kent who filmed the following shots. I tried myself, but overall, he had the best results.

Patrice Shot:

Actual Shot:

Importance of an 'Excellent' Soundtrack + Soundtrack Ideas

2012-01-25T09:30:00.002-08:00

The Importance of an 'Excellent' Soundtrack
Within a Film

Soundtracks in films is one way in-which the director can communicate with the audience to tell them exactly how to think and feel while viewing a particular scene or scenes.

A classic example of how important the soundtrack within a film which can create a frightening atmosphere, tension, suspense, horror, and most important of all, the heart-pounding thrilling feeling has to be from.......

Jaws (1975).

From the use of shark infested waters that create wide open spaces of no escape which challenge thriller conventions, the appearance of the Dolly Zoom, and of course, the most recognized convention of all, the use of an enigma - the shark itself by using the imagination of the audience.

Jaws was directed by one of the most famous film makers of our time, Steven Spielberg.

He employed the Oscar winning composer, John Williams (Johnny Williams) whose produced and created some of the most iconic soundtracks of film history. Famous tracks include the themes for: "Harry Potter", "Star Wars" and "E.T". His first ever soundtrack was for "Lost in Space" (1960's).

The soundtrack used in the opening scene of Jaws sets an atmosphere of ever closing danger. The tension is so unbearable that you're literally gasping for air, while frantically gripping onto your seat - that's if, you're still in it of course!

This is the type of effect myself and James wish to achieve for our "Opening to a New Thriller Film".

Here is the full theme tune/soundtrack of "Jaws (1975)":

Here is part of the opening scene which visually shows the impact of using a dramatic soundtrack that creates suspense and tension:

Soundtrack Ideas

1) "House of Evil.mp3" - From "http://www.audionautix.com/".

This soundtrack starts off with a great feel - The feeling which would be expressed in music as if you're all alone and vulnerable. This shall establish the atmosphere and setting.

Even if this soundtrack is only 00:55 seconds long, and is most likely too short for our production. It is a good available option encase myself and James would like to use it. We could always edit it so that the middle section is longer.

2) "Spooky-abience-with-heartbeat.mp3" by "Blacklizard77" from "http://www.freesound.org/".

This soundtrack is again, rather short. However, the drum beats at 0:08 for example will be great for the dramatic entrance of the "stalker's" feet. The heart-beats throughout the soundtrack, even if they are quiet, add suspense and tension for the audience - much like the two musical notes used in the soundtrack for "Jaws (1975)".

Filming Evidence (pictures) (23rd/01/2012)

2012-01-23T14:46:00.000-08:00

Filming Evidence

(pictures) (23rd/01/2012)

Filming:

Date:

23/01/2012

Location:

Outside of "The Hewett School" - Ipswich Road.

Actors:

Myself (Austen Nuttall) and group member James Kent.
Help:
Abi Skinner (Hewett), Sam Barker (Hewett).

Time:

During Media Studies lesson (period 1 and 2) (9am - 11am).
Weather:

Clear early in the morning, low sunrise, rainy afternoon.

A very special thanks to "Abi Skinner" and "Sam Barker".

Sam helped us film the scene with an over the shoulder shot where James is "following" me towards the container - we couldn't of done it without him. We carefully instructed Sam how to use the camera and how to position it to get the effect we needed as if it was our own.

Also, Abi, for taking the following images to be used as evidence of our group's filming.

Props

2012-01-22T09:58:00.000-08:00

Props

Mobile Phone:

As our "Opening to a New Thriller Film" is set during a modern day Britain. We've decided to include a mobile phone as it will also establish the historical setting.

Our victim will use a mobile phone in our "Opening to a New Thriller Film". We'd like the phone to be simple and not "too high-tech", this is because our character and the phone can be represented as being linked to one another - they're both modern and simple to 'work' with.

This technique is also used in "Once Upon A Time In America" in-which a table lamp and a character called "Eve" are seen as being one object within the scene. When "Eve" enters the room, she turns on a lamp - the lamp represents her presence. Later on, "Eve" tragically dies and the murderers turn off the lamp on their way out of the room. This identifies "Eves" death has been acknowledged.

The phone will also represent our character's tragic "death" scene - keeping in mind, the audience will only think this because our film suggests this happens to our character. But instead, he's only knocked out. We've came up with an alternate ending after the titles which the phone is seen laying on the ground ringing or even a scene where the phone is dropped on the ground in slow-mo. This could establish that our victim has been taken away, or even "left for dead".

Costume Ideas

2012-01-22T09:06:00.001-08:00

Costume Ideas

Opening To A New Thriller Film

Please click the "View Full screen" button if possible.
This will then ensure that you can actually read the text within the power-point presentation(s).
To exit full screen, tap the "Esc" key on your keyboard.

Character 2: - ideas coming. Bare with!

Name: James

Gender: Male

Age: 19

Occupation: Unemployed

Opening to a New Thriller Film - Practice (Filming)

2012-01-16T12:24:00.000-08:00

Opening to a New Thriller Film - Practice (Filming)

Shot 1:

Low angle tilt of vanishing point. Victim walks towards vanishing point after entering the scene. Then suddenly, another pair of feet enter the scene. This will occur when the victim is walking down the pathway.

Shot 2:

Tracking shot of victim. Victim walks down pathway with trees either side. Tracking shot is similar to the opening scene of "Jackie Brown (1997)", or even the opening to "Kill Bill Vol.1" when Bill's feet enter the scene.

Myself and James have filmed both: "The Victim's" feet and "The Follower/Stalker's" feet. We then have the option available to use quick editing much like in Quentin Tarantino's "Kill Bill Vol 1" - "Eye Scene" so we need 2 different clips. This would suggest and imply that the "Follower/Stalker" is getting closer and closer, it'll also build up tension and suspense which is vital for a thriller film's success.

Victim:

Follower/Stalker:

Kill Bill "Eye Scene"

Shot 5:

Close up of victim taking a phone out of their pocket.

Shot 5/6:

Close up of Victim dialing numbers to call someone.

Shot 5/6/7:

Close up of Victim dialing numbers to call someone.

Shooting Schedule

2012-01-15T07:46:00.000-08:00

Shooting Schedule

Practice shots:

Date:

16/01/2012

Location:

Outside of "The Hewett School" - Ipswich Road.

Actors:

Myself (Austen Nuttall) and group member James Kent.

Camera:
Cannon 600D

Time:

During Media Studies lesson (period 5 and 6) (2pm - 4pm).
Weather:
Clear and sunny.

Filming:

Date:

23/01/2012

Location:

Outside of "The Hewett School" - Ipswich Road.

Actors:

Myself (Austen Nuttall) and group member James Kent.
Camera:
Cannon 600D
Help:
Abi Skinner (Hewett), Sam Barker (Hewett).

Time:

During Media Studies lesson (period 1 and 2) (9am - 11am).
Weather:

Clear early in the morning, low sunrise, rainy afternoon.

Finished Story Boards + Birds Eye View of Scene

2012-01-11T14:38:00.000-08:00

Finished Story Boards and
Birds Eye View of Scene

These are my storyboards for the "Opening to a New Thriller Film". Myself and James will try to stick by these storyboards as if there guidelines. When we actually come to filming, we might swap, change, edit, or even film brand new scenes.

We've chosen to do this because if a great idea may "pop-up" while filming, it would be a welcomed addition to our opening, only if it has a purpose. Such as extending the total viewing time, or even a scene which would create a darker atmosphere.

Birds Eye View of Scene

Revisiting Shot List - Focus On Camera Shots + Movement

2012-01-03T11:35:00.000-08:00

Revisiting Our Shot List:
"Get To The Point" - Camera Angles and Movement

In this post, I will be revisiting Mine and James's idea by specifically looking at camera shots and movement. We have edited a few and also added in some extra camera angles to make the opening far more interesting.

The "Opening to our Thriller Film (Idea 3): Final Concept + Shot list" can be viewed HERE.

Shot 1:
Low angle tilt of vanishing point. Victim walks towards vanishing point after entering the scene. Then suddenly, another pair of feet enter the scene. This will occur when the victim is walking down the pathway.
Shot 2:
Tracking shot of victim. Victim walks down pathway with trees either side. Tracking shot is similar to the opening scene of "Jackie Brown (1997)", or even the opening to "Kill Bill Vol.1" when Bill's feet enter the scene.
Shot 3:
Close up of victim finishing walking from vanishing point - Much like the ending scene of "The Third Man" (1949).
Shot 4:
Pan shot of victim going towards an old, rusty, abandoned container.
Shot 5:
Close up of victim taking a phone out of their pocket.
Shot 5/6:
Close up of Victim dialing numbers to call someone.
Shot 7:
Over the shoulder shot of mysterious figure watching victim talking on phone.
Shot 8:
Close up of victim's face. Hand enters the scene, smashes victims head against the container. (As mentioned in "Opening to our Thriller Film idea 3......" careful editing and acting will be used to avoid any damage to the container or hurt any actors.)
Shot 9: (Optional ending)
Worms eye view/Low Angle shot from the point of view of the victim laying on the ground. Camera shows the mysterious figure as an "almost" silhouette figure who is looking down at victim.
Shot 10:
Film cuts dramatically and titles appear. Just like how they appear in the Animal Kingdom trailer.

Synopsis of New Thriller Film Opening

2012-01-02T08:45:00.000-08:00

Synopsis of New Thriller Film Opening

"Austen" goes out for a walk - cold early morning around 9am. Austen believes his life is trouble-free - but this is soon to change. Austen will try to phone a friend - but gets no reply. Meanwhile, a mysterious older teenager (which Austen has never met before, yet known to his family) called "James" is on the pursuit. Austen - unaware of the upcoming danger, James will come up behind Austen - being very careful and silent. He'll knock Austen against an old, rusty container. Austen will be taken away by James, who has intentions to black-mail the boy's family - for reasons unknown to him and the audience.

Thriller Opening Pitch

2012-01-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

G321: Pitch For Opening to
New Thriller Film With Sound and Titles

Working Title: Undecided.
Potential titles: "The Cold Caller" and "Walking in the Dark"

Type of Thriller: Suspense/Crime/Dark

Historical Setting: Modern day.

Primary Locations: Outside, confined space which cleaners pile up leaves/scrap yard-ish. England, Norfolk.

Narrative Structure: Linear

Characters:

Character 1)
Name: Undecided
Gender: Male, Teenage Boy,
Age: 16
Occupation: Unemployed

Character 2)
Name: Undecided
Gender: Male, older teenager
Age: 19
Occupation: Unemployed

Sound Track Ideas: Undecided, but we're working on creating our own. (It's very hard work).

Cliff Hanger at the end of the sequence:
What will the older male do to the younger male after he has been knocked out and falls to the ground. Also, why did he do it? Why was the younger male dialing on his phone and about to call someone? It might be a family issue......

Representation of Place: Dangerous, cold and dark atmosphere, trust no-one.

Ideology: Good Vs Evil.

Sources of Ideas for storyboards and plot:

Jackie Brown - tracking shots
Kill Bill Vol 1 - tracking shots
The Third Man - long shot/vanishing point
Once Upon A Time In America - close ups, over the shoulder, point of view shots.

Editing Style: Slow at beginning, but increases in speed towards the ending to represent danger approaching.

How The Sequence Establishes the Thriller Genre:

Dark and grim-like atmosphere
Old "scrap yard" area
Use of close ups, tilts and vanishing point
Vulnerable character

Controlled Assessment - December 2011

2011-12-15T13:14:00.001-08:00

Controlled Assessment - December 2011

I chosen to do "Donnie Darko - The Director's Cut" (2004) (original 2001) as my chosen mock controlled assessment. I picked this film as critics highly enjoyed this instant cult-classic thriller sub-genre psychological film. I also enjoyed the film, and found it very interesting.

The thriller genre has many sub-genres. One of these is the psychological thriller. The psychological sub-genre can include normal conflicts between main characters which could lead to violence. This conflict is mental and emotional, rather than physical. As the conflict is mental and also emotional, it can possibly be something that wouldn't be scientifically possible in real life.

The film had many conventions, such as clocks, wide open spaces, lavatories, characters with dark pasts, triangles leading to murder, the interior of vehicles and many more, hence the reason why it's a strong thriller sub-genre film - even through the film has elements from other genres too, such as sci-fi and horror. I also chosen this film because of the response which I was given on my "Thrillers I've Watched" post. You can view this HERE.

However, as Miss pointed out below, the film is more a psychological dioma (drama? dilemma? - hard to read writing) and/or horror.

I understand the response which Miss has given me.

Below I have enabled a "Show/Hide" button so that your browser you are using will not crash while loading due to the file size of the images and CPU usage. Please click on these to show the images. You can click again to hide the images afterwards. I recommend 'showing' one image at a time.

Jackie Brown (Quentin Tarantino - 1997)

2011-12-10T08:09:00.001-08:00

Jackie Brown (1997) - Quentin Tarantino

Info:
Director: Quentin Tarantino
Release: 1997

A female flight attendant becomes a key figure in a plot between the police and an arms dealer. - IMDb

The Introduction of Jackie Brown

At the beginning of the scene, Quentin Tarantino introduces a character called "Jackie Brown" (actress Pam Grier). Non-diegetic sound has been edited into the film at the beginning. The non-diegetic sound is a soundtrack which is called "Across 110th Street" by Bobby Womack.

(Here is the non-diegectic soundtrack for your listening pleasures.)

The soundtrack is very upbeat and powerful. The lyrics begin when Jackie Brown enters the scene in a medium close up. This immediately establishes the character of Jackie as being upbeat, glamorous, powerful and confidant - the lyrics support this. Because of the soundtrack, Jackie Brown is represented as being a "Femme-Fatal". This is a thriller convention that establishes the genre.

For the first opening minute, the camera constantly tracks Jackie Brown as she moves throughout the scene. The costume which she is wearing is a Flight Attendant's uniform. The costume is bright blue and white. This colour choice can support the fact that Tarantino is trying to represent Jackie as a Femme-Fatal as the colour is bright, eye-catching and glamorous.

Throughout the opening scene, the camera cuts between medium, extreme and close ups of Jackie Brown each differentiating between low angles and "shoulder" height angles. This signifies that the audience should constantly keep an eye on Jackie Brown. Especially as Tarantino has established her as being a Femme-Fatal - a deviant and dangerous woman who looks innocent. On top of this, within the mise-en-scene of the extreme close ups, Jackie Brown is the only figure who is in the camera's focus. This also suggests that the audience needs to keep a close eye on her, or even that everything around Jackie is insignificant. She is above everyone else, more important and can do anything she wishes - another common characteristic of a Femme-Fatal.

This is also backed up by the fact that Jackie Brown walks past a crowd of people queueing to scan luggage. Scanning luggage is a protocol in Airports encase of an attack on an aircraft - they search for dangerous weapons or bombs. Because of the fact that Jackie Brown walks past this important protocol, it can suggest that she is going to do exactly the same, but this time, to the police. No one will suspect her committing a crime, or helping anyone who does.

The Shooting of Beaumont

During "The Shooting of Beaumont", Quentin Tarantino uses the representation of the character's clothing to establish power within the scene. The mise-en-scene shows that one character is dressed and the other 'bare' or even shown as being 'naked'. By doing this, Quentin Tarantino establishes that the character wearing clothes is far more superior then the character without.

As this is a Quentin Tarantino film, he's used his iconic low angle shot. The low angle shot shows the two characters looking into a car boot. Again, the low angle show can represent having superior power as the characters are towering above the camera.

Quentin Tarantino uses this low angle shot in many other films. This can be seen as an intertextual reference. The reference is that characters, who have more 'power' in the scene tower above the camera. These films include:

Kill Bill Vol.1:

Reservoir Dogs:

Pulp Fiction:

Thelma and Louise (1991) Screen Shot Analysis

2011-12-05T10:31:00.000-08:00

Thelma and Louise (1991)

Screen Shot Analysis

Director: Ridley Scott
Release date: 1991

Location:

The location of the scene is in a car park. This is a classic generic convention which establishes the thriller genre. The car park is used as a confined space that makes the characters feel alone and scared.

Characters:

Within the mise-en-scene, both characters show different emotions.

- The female character looks shocked. We can tells this by the over expressing of the eyes. Eyes are important features within thriller films as they show fear and tension within the scene for the character. The reason why the eyes are over expressed in this scene is because the female character - The "Femme-Fatale" is stepping out of place from a male dominated world, she is worried about what will happen to herself.

- The male looks worried and stressed about the actions of the female. He is worried about what she would do in a male dominated world. Especially as she is holding a gun. The gun is often used to symbolise male power. The female character shoots the man in the heart. This can represent that the males in the film have no respect for female welfare.

Lighting:

The lighting within the image is ambient which is very dark and is almost shown as a Noir-like thriller. This could of been used to represent the female presence within the male world, by doing this the female character is dressed in colourful clothes whereas the male is dressed plainly.

Camera Angle:

The camera angle used is a medium close up. The medium close up is used to capture both the male and the female's emotions at the same time. This is important as the emotions shown represent the characters personality in the scene.

Props:

The only prop used in this scene is the use of a gun. The gun is often used in thriller films as it is a generic item found within the thriller genre. The use of a gun symbolises male dominance, however, as a female is holding the gun the director is challenging the generic convention.

Other Notes That I Find Important:

Inter-textuality:

During the ending scene of the film, Thelma and Louise are on the run from the police. They decide it is in their best interests to drive off the edge of the Grand Canyon than being court by the police. I haven't seen this film before but I remember a scene from an episode of "The Simpsons" which follows the same plot of the film.

This episode is called "Marge On The Lam". This is when a character called "Marge Simpson" becomes friends with "Ruth Powers" who has moved next-door. Ruth Powers drives a blue convertible. The blue convertible is an intertextual reference as it is the same colour and type of car which is used in "Thelma and Louise (1991)". The blue convertible can also represent that both characters are Femme-Fatatles. They are stylish, glamorous, attractive and eye catching.

Near the end of this episode, the two girls are being hunted down by the police in a wild car chase and they decide to drive off the edge of the Grand Canyon. This is also an inter-textual reference as the film and episode have similar endings and story plot.

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier Spy (2011) - Intertextual Reference

2011-11-30T12:04:00.000-08:00

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier Spy (2011)
Intertextual Reference

Today (30 Nov 2011) I went shopping for some secondhand films to buy. I came across a film which I've only seen once. This film is called "7 Pounds" and stars Will Smith as the leading role. The film was released in 2008 and was directed by Gabriele Muccino. I thought this film was very art-like and very enjoyable.

An aerospace engineer with a fateful secret embarks on an extraordinary journey of redemption by forever changing the lives of seven strangers. - IMDb

After I bought this stunning film, I found an intertextual reference by looking at the front cover of the DVD. It reminded me of the posters which advertised "Tinker, Tailor, Soldier Spy (2011)".

Below is a comparison of a poster for Tinker, Tailor, Soldier Spy (2011) and 7 Pounds (2008).

Reasons Why I Believe It's An Intertextual Reference

Both posters have the leading actor from the film in the center looking directly at the viewer.
Both posters use "secret code words" hidden within the poster:
- 7 Pounds (2008) have edited the names of key characters into the poster which appear in a bold colour.
- Tinker, Tailor, Soldier Spy (2011) has also edited in key names and code words such as "Soldier" and "Tinker" which appear within the poster.
Both posters use the colour red to signify important words.
Both posters have wording/lettering behind the actors.

Heavenly Creatures (1994) Ending Scene

2011-11-29T13:58:00.000-08:00

Heavenly Creatures (1994) Ending Scene

Info:
Tilt of film: Heavenly Creatures

Released: 1994 (UK)
Director: Peter Jackson

Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller

"Two girls have an intense fantasy life; their parents, concerned the fantasy is too intense, separate them, and the girls take revenge." - INDb

Generic Characters:

Innocent Victims
Twisted relationships/friendships leading to murder

Generic Locations and objects:

Confided spaces
Clocks
Wide open spaces
Interior of motor vehicles
Narrow pathways

Ending Scene

Heavenly Creatures starts with a circular narrative which is based on a true story - The circular narrative starts with events which take place after the ending scene at the beginning of the film. A circular narrative is used in many other thriller films to establish the genre. Some key examples of thriller films which use this are: Donnie Darko (2001) and also Once Upon A Time In America (1984).

At the beginning of the ending scene, the two girls - Pauline Parker (actress Melanie Lynskey) and Juliet Hulme (actress Kate Winslet) exchange convocation about the upcoming events. In this scene, there are many medium close up shots and zooms. I noticed that during this scene where the two girls are in the bedroom that the camera seems to get closer and closer to the girls. This movement can represent the suspense and tension which they are going through.

At the end of this scene, there is a extreme close up of a bag. This bag contains the murder weapon which the girls are going to use. The extreme close up tells the audience that this bag is very important. The director - Peter Jackson who is recognised for the directing the Lord Of The Rings trilogy wants the audience to keep an eye on this bag, as it'll become very important. Inside the bag is a brick, the brick could represent the girls during this scene. They are hard, rough, emotionless and cold.

During the ending scene, there is two zooming in extreme close ups of clocks. Clocks are a generic thriller prop/convention which is used to show that time is an issue. In a court case they would ask you when and what time did the events take place. The extreme close ups of the clocks can represent this as the girls may be going to a court case in the near future.

First appearance of the clock in
Heavenly Creatures

Second appearance of the clock
in Heavenly Creatures

The first appearance of the clock is very different to the second. The second appearance of the clock is more zoomed in, it's far closer to the clock then the first appearance. This can also support the fact that time is an issue. The clocks make the whole scene feel more natural and realistic.

Donnie Darko - Close up of clock

Heavenly Creatures isn't the only thriller film which uses clocks to establish the genre. Donnie Darko (2001) for example has an extreme close up of a clock during the opening scene just before the airplane's jet engine falls through Donnie's house. This extreme close up can be seen as an intertextual reference as both films show clocks just before some kind of threatening danger occurs.

During the ending scene (at about 3:20, video at the top) Peter Jackson has edited in a non-diegetic soundtrack. The soundtrack is from an opera called "Madam Butterfly" by Giacomo Puccini. The soundtrack, which is called "Humming Chorus" is rather dramatic yet very beautiful. This non-diegetic sound builds up suspense for the audience. Not only does the soundtrack set the mood of the scene, it also creates a sense if being in a dreamworld reality. This dreamworld reality is the world in-which the girls are living in during the final scene.

Below is the soundtrack "Humming Chorus" for your listening pleasures.

Peter Jackson challenges classic thriller generic conventions during the end scene. One of the main conventions he challenges is the use of wide open spaces with narrow pathways. This is when the girls and the Mother are walking down the narrow pathway in a wide open space. The lighting is ambient which creates a sense of the events being more realistic and far more threatening. The narrow pathway is very claustrophobic, this makes the Mother feel isolated. Narrow pathways is another generic thriller convention which is often used to make the characters feel that there is no escape.

There are many different close ups and tracking shots of the girl's and the Mother's feet walking down the pathway in the ending scene. These are used to show that the Mother is walking to her death. These close ups and tracking shots are filmed in slow-mo. The slow-mo is used to represent that the girls are in an almost dream-like reality as the girls want to be together without the Mother. The slow-mo is also used when the camera cuts to close ups of the character's faces, the camera can then capture every single thought which is running through their minds just before the crime is committed. The soundtrack is also used to show this, as mentioned above.

Opening to our Thriller Film (Idea 3): Final Concept + Shot list

2011-11-29T12:58:00.000-08:00

Opening to our Thriller Film:
Final Concept + Shot list For Our Third and Final Idea

Due to the fact that we can't use the shipping container for our previous idea, as they are now currently locked. Myself and James have came up with another idea. This idea of ours will be our final idea as we believe it is possible to create and is not over complicated. We will still use our same location and characters.

Final Idea:

A young innocent, trouble-free, "down to Earth" teenage boy around the age of 16 will be taking his daily walk in a park. The teenage boy will then become thirsty and will need a drink, he'll put his bag down next to the shipping container and will then take a bottle of water out from his bag and drink it. Then, suddenly we watch a mysterious walk through the entrance to the park. The mysterious figure will then grab hold of the boy and will force him to the ground by hitting his head on the metal container (we will edit and carefully film this scene so no one gets hurt in the process). The mysterious figure will then pull the teenage boy along the ground behind the shipping container. The audience will not see what is behind the area, this can be used to signify an enigma - what is going to happen now? whats behind the container? Why has this happened? This will be our thrilling cliffhanger.

However, when we start to film our opening, if the shipping container is open, unlocked and empty, myself and James will film both ideas. By doing this we can then compare this idea and our previous idea to see which is better. Also, we will make two final outcomes, one in black&white and the other in colour. Then we can compare them both to see which creates more suspense to our Opening To A Thriller Film.

Shot List:

Shot 1) Camera pans down from the sky to a tilted long shot which shows a vanishing point. The vanishing point will be the end of a pathway with tress either side of it. The young teenage boy walks down the pathway and past the camera. Myself and James thought this would be an excellent shot for the opening. The shot was inspired by the ending scene from the film "The Third Man" (1949).
Shot 2) Pan shot of the boy walking past trees.
Shot 3) Boy walks towards the shipping container.
Shot 4) Boy puts bag down, close ups will be used here. Takes an item such as a bottle of water out from his bag and drinks it.
Shot 5) Mysterious figure walks up behind the boy, close up of feet walking will be used.
Shot 6) The mysterious figure will "smash" the boy's head against the metal container (editing and cleaver acting with good camera work will be used to stop anyone from being hurt during filming). Extreme close ups and close ups will be used here to show suspense.
Shot 7) Close ups of the mysterious figure dragging the stone cold body round the corner of the shipping container. I use "stone cold" because the audience will not know if the boy is either dead or knocked unconscious. Our film will cut to a black screen where the titles of the film will fade in or suddenly appear - much like the titles in the trailer for Animal Kingdom (Animal Kingdom trailer - click here).

Once Upon A Time In America: Opening Scene

2011-11-28T14:41:00.000-08:00

Once Upon A Time In America (1984): Opening Scene

Info:

Title of Film: Once Upon A Time In America

Released: 1st June 1984 (USA)

Director: Sergio Leone

Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller

"A former Prohibition-era Jewish gangster returns to Brooklyn over 30 years later, where he once again must confront the ghosts and regrets of his old life." - IMDb

The opening to Once Upon A Time In America has many generic locations and characters which can be found in the thriller genre. These include:

Generic Characters:

Criminals
Innocent Victims
Characters with dark pasts
Twisted relationships/friendships
Characters on the run
Cops
Gangster/s

Generic Locations:

Confided spaces

The opening scene to "Once Upon A Time In America" starts with a circular narrative - often used in thriller films to give the audience a glimpse into the dark past of the character or characters within the film. In the first scene, we see "Eve" (actress Darlanne Fluegel) walk into a darkly lilt room. This opening scene is almost Noir-like due to the non-ambient lighting, this could also suggest that Eve is hiding something as her face is the only thing we see in the mise-en-scene whereas the rest of her body is in the darkness. This can represent that her beauty shines through.

Because of this beauty, Eve can be seen as a Femme-Fatale. A Femme-Fatale is a woman who is seen as being mysterious and seductive. This is also represented as Eve is wearing pearls. White pearls have a historic symbolical meaning of purity. This can show us that she is innocent and without sin. However, as we can not see the rest of her body in the mice-en-scene this suggests that she is trying to hide something through her purity, or even that her looks can be deceiving.

(Improvement paragraph)

"Eve's" entreance can seen as an intertexual reference with Harry Lime's entrance from "The Third Man". Harry Lime appears from a narrow doorway, with only half of his face exposed to the Noir lighting and the rest in silhouette darkness. This can be seen as an intertexual reference as both Harry and Eve's faces appear from doorways/archways with only half of their face exposed to the camera and the rest in darkness.

(End)

The sound within the opening scene is non-diegetic as it has been edited into the scene. The sound during the scene could also be seen as being diegetic, this is because when Eve goes into the room, there could be a radio which is playing a song called "God Bless America". This song has been edited into the opening scene to represent the mood and irony of the upcoming moments.

Audio/MP3 - "God Bless America"

During this scene, after Eve has walked into the room, she turns on a table lamp. The table lamp being turned on is representing Eve. The light from the pale cream glass reflect on Eve's face, which happens to be almost the same tone. This shows us that the lamp and Eve are the same, they are one within this scene.

Eve then spots an outline of a body made out of bullet holes on a bed. The camera angle is a high angle shot, this could be seen as a warning of danger, intimidation, and how little power Eve has over others. However the angle could even suggest a point of view shot of someone watching her. The outline of the body on the bed can also suggest a link to the police and authorities in America and how they can be corrupted and take matters into their on hands.

We learn this latter on during the scene when three men in tweed coats walk into the room - they are cops. Their outfits represent that they are all together as a gang. The middle man carries a gun around with him, this gun is a symbol of male authority within this thriller film. The gun is pointed at a photo of a man, because the gun is pointing at the man in the photo, it could represent the man in the photo is being hunted by them and is on the run.

During the final shot of the opening scene, one of the cops shoots Eve. This can represent the cops as taking the law into their own hands, just like as if they are criminals on the run who will do anything to gain information which blocks their path - a common event in many thriller films. Also, the power statues of the three men outweigh Eve. Three v.s. one can be seen as another male authority over woman, this is used in many thriller films, an example of this is "Thelma & louise (1991)" where the women in the film are living in a dominated male world.

After Eve dies, one of the cops turns off the table lamp off which symbolises Eve. This is done to show that Eve's life has came to an end. The room then returns to darkness as the ambient lighting is no longer present and returns to an almost Noir-like thriller.

Essex Boys (2000): Opening Scene

2011-11-23T15:09:00.000-08:00

Essex Boys (2000): Opening Scene

Info:

Title of Film: Essex Boys

Released: 14th July 2000 (UK)

Director: Terry Winsor

Genre: Crime, Thriller

Essex Boys was a low budget production. Low budget productions are often thriller films as they show realism unlike many mainstream films. The film was only shown in small independent cinemas (54 screens) throughout the UK. Small screening are common with low budget productions.

The opening to Essex Boys has many generic locations and characters which can be found in the thriller genre. These include:

Generic Characters:

Criminals
Innocent Victims
Characters with dark pasts
Twisted relationships/friendships
Characters on the run

Generic Locations:

Interior of cars/vans
Urban streets
Wide open spaces
Streets

Opening Scene:

"The film is based loosely around events in December 1995 that culminated in the murders of three drug dealers in Rettendon, Essex, UK. On 6th December Patrick Tate, Craig Rolfe and Tony Tucker, three drug dealers well known to the police, were lured to Workhouse Lane, Rettendon. There they were blasted to death with a shot gun while sitting in their Range Rover. They had been lured to their deaths on the pretext of a lucrative drugs deal. The three bodies were found the following morning, 7 December 1995." - INDb

When the film begins, we see these titles (on left) in the center of the screen/mice-en-scene. These titles give the audience an insight about the film. The key feature of the titles which establishes Essex Boys as being a thriller film is that the plot/story is inspired by a single true event, because of this the whole film becomes far more darker and more serious.

The title shots show the names of the film's cast. Sean Bean is one of the main actors in Essex Boys. The actor, Sean Bean is well-known for casting Boromir from The Lord Of The Rings trilogy. In Essex Boys he casts the role of Jason Locke.

These titles also establishes the film. The white drops which are scatted across the screen could represent blood dripping, or even blood splatted against a wall. This tells the audience that the film will include harsh graphical violence. The soundtrack starts to begin when the titles are shown.

The soundtrack is non-diegetic sound which adds suspense. The soundtrack has been edited to fit with the dropping "white blood" - a sharp, scratchy sound is in sync with the dropping white lines. This strange sound is very creepy and makes the audience feel insecure and fearful.

After the title sequence, the camera shows a medium establishing shot of the first scene within a garage. In this shot, we can see that the director has used an intertextual reference to the classic Noir-thrillers. This is shown by using chiaroscuro lighting. Chiaroscuro lighting is the arrangement of light and dark elements. This intertextual reference to the classic Noir-thrillers can represent the dim, dark and mysterious journey throughout the film for the characters.

The hanging light which creates this gives off a triangle beam. The "leading lines" on the either side of the beam makes the audience focus on the light itself inside the garage. The triangle beam of light is almost like a vanishing point in the distance of the scene - it almost leads our eyes into a different dimension. This can represent illusion and mystery throughout the film.

The second shot in this scene is when the main character, "Billy Reynolds" (actor Charlie Creed-Miles) is sitting inside of a batted, worn out car. The confined space inside of the car is an aspect of the generic thriller conversions. The confined space represents that the character is trapped in an insecure, claustrophobic space and will feel this for the rest of the film.

During this scene, the character Billy Reynolds starts to talk to the audience by a voice-over, which is a non-diegetic sound. The voice-over is used to make the audience relate to the character. The dialog is from Billy's point of view - he's talking to you, which will make you emphasize with the character.

The camera then cuts to a marvelous point of view shot from the film. This shot is from the point of view of Billy Reynolds who is looking towards Jason Locke through the car's front window screen. This shot is introducing the character Jason Locke. Not only is the shot introducing the character Jason, but it is also describing his personalty and lifestyle. The way in-which the shot is describing his personalty and lifestyle is by using the car's muddy windscreen as a kind of metaphor. It tells us that Jason Locke is very rough, gritty, and plays dirty if you mess with him. The window wipers represent the fact that if you know this guy, it's best to wipe him off your shoulders before it's too late.

The camera then cuts to a close up of Jason's face. His eyes are the main focus of the shot. He is looking towards the camera - towards Billy Reynolds with a squinting/evil look. This can represent the relationship between the two characters and the evil events to come later on in the film.

After the events taken place in the garage, the camera cuts to the second scene. In this scene the camera is tracking the car in fount but from a point of view from the car behind which Jason Locke and Billy Reynolds are in. The tunnel which the car is entering is very important. The tunnel can be seen as a barrel of a gun which the duo are entering as the car represents the bullet. The tunnel is also a symbol of generic locations in thriller films such as confined spaces with no escape - once you've entered, you either come out alive or not. The car then vanishes into the vanishing point - which is the tunnel.

The next shot shows Jason Locke sitting back and relaxing. This tells the audience nearly everything there is to know about Jason. He is sitting back and relaxing because he knows, whatever he tells Billy Reynolds to do, he'll do it. It is as if Jason is "King" around Essex. However, this scene could also represent the fact that Jason Locke could of had a dark past with cops/police. When police arrest you, they would normally say: "put your hands behind your back" or even "put your hands behind your head". The hands being behind Jason's face could symbolize this.

Afterwards, the camera cuts to an outside close up of Billy Reynolds who is driving the car. We can see Jason relaxing in the backseat. This also implies that Jason is "king" as Billy Reynolds is being his personal private driver. On top of this, the lighting supports that Jason might of had dark pasts with cops. The lighting which is coming from the top of the tunnel is ambient that adds realism to the film. The lights which are reflecting onto the windscreen symbolize jail bars with Jason Locke and Billy Reynolds behind them. This could represent future events as the two might be put into jail, or be hunted by police.

Opening to Our Thriller film: Practice Shots and Location

2011-11-21T13:11:00.000-08:00