We have researched other documentary's with the same genre and plot/narrative. We had a look at the documentary supersize me. We had a look to find some inspiration and techniques to use in our own documentary. We had a look at this clip - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmOj54D2GJI
As you can see Morgan Spur lock is the host/presenter of the documentary, and uses techniques such as hard hitting facts with shock factor. He also interviews passers-by and asks them questions relating to the narrative. This inspired us to use this in our own documentary by interviewing random people passing by and gain their opinion. This way we would have a large range of different types of people to gather opinion from. He also had clips of the type of people using fast food restaraunts alot
Monday, 16 December 2013
Thursday, 28 November 2013
Documentary Assignment 3 - individual script
My individual task for the presentation
- Who is the target audience for your documentary and how are you going to target that audience?
age,gender,interests
The target audience for the documentary we are creating is mostly people our age, especially college students as the narrative will outline the effects and impact the unhealthy food options have on students. So particularly teenagers between 16-18. Our aim with this audience is to persuade these people to cut down or completely re-arrange their lifestyle and eating habits. Another aim is to inform the audience about the negative short and long term affects these foods. Our documentary may also appeal to people involved with organisations protesting against certain fast food corporations and people involved with healthy eating campaigns. There is a range of people this may appeal to, including parents of children who eat a large number of fast food or just parents in general who have a concern or interest in the facts and figures so they can make a change themselves. Anybody with an interest in the narrative may be interested in watching our documentary, although we are aiming to attract college students. Our documentary will be aimed at both male and female students as we aim to persuade them to make a difference. We are going to target students by using hard hitting bold facts to add a shock factor into the documentary and we may also place a comical twist onto the plot but also keep it serious to create a larger impact on the audience.
Wednesday, 27 November 2013
Wednesday, 20 November 2013
unit 2 Assignment 2 - Research diary,treatment
My documentary topic - unhealthy eating/lifestyles in Tameside and the effects.
Research Diary
Website 1 - Cardiovascular Disease (published December 2011)
- www.tameside.gov.uk/scrutiny/personal/cvd/summary.pdf
Quote -
'Partner organisations have acknowledged that CVD levels are too high in Tameside and measures are being taken to bring the level down, particularly among under-75's. There is a clear strategic vision and action plan to tackle risk factors associated with CVD, such as tobacco misuse,alcohol misuse, low levels of physical activity and obesity
The quote explains how the levels of cardiovascular disease related issues are too high within Tameside among people under 75. As a result there is a plan to address the risk factors related with the disease and poor health in general. Therefore attempting to tackle the main factors and make an impacting change.
Bullet point's of key information
I found this information relevant and easy to understand. The opening information explained the existence of high mortality rates in Tameside due to cardiovascular disease. The website also had a number of useful conclusions which helped my research. I also think the information is not bias, as it is provided by a validated source and provides factual information. Not an opinion.
Website 2 - Greater Manchester News (published February 2012)
- http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/threat-to-ban-takeaways-near-tameside-681110
Quote -
'The principal wrote to the council saying students were buying too much food from a burger van parked outside the college gates. She said "in a world where there is a growing concern about adolescent obesity and related health problems we believe we have a duty to try to both serve healthy food within college and to teach young people about the benefits of eating healthily'' '
The quote is a complaint from our college principal to the council explaining how students are more frequently choosing to eat from an unhealthy burger van close to the college gates instead of eating healthy food from the college. Becoming a factor to why there is a growing obesity epidemic in the Tameside area and one of the main options for college students is unhealthy take-aways in the area.
Bullet point's of key information
Newspaper 1 - Daily Mail article (published October 2010)
- http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1315302/UK-restaurants-asked-print-calories-menus-combat-unhealthy-eating.html
Quote -
'As a nation we are too unhealthy. We cost the NHS billions of pounds a year through bad diets,lack of exercise and poor lifestyle choices. We can and must improve this. Today, the agency will release details of 33 companies which decreased their portion sizes and changed the ingredients in some of their products'
This quote explains how the NHS spends billions of pounds a year in operations and treatment for people with bad health or unhealthy eating related issues. In result, the government have forced so far 33 food companies to reduce the size of their portions and change their ingredients to atleast attempt to become 'more healthy'. The companies have also been forced to provide calorie information for all of their food products.
Bullet point's of key information
Newspaper 2 - Daily Mail article (published by Daniel Bates June 2011)
- http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2009128/Junk-food-adverts-really-make-children-hungry-unhealthy-meals-say-scientists.html
Quote -
'After exposure to junk food adverts there was a significant increase in the number of children who chose branded and non branded foods that are bad for them. The effect was especially true for children who usually watched more than 21 hours of television a week'
This quote explains how children who are exposed to junk food and unhealthy foods in general on television are far more likely to choose/ask for the same types of food when shopping with parents are asked what they want to eat. The quote also says how this is more frequent in children who watch large amounts of television. Becoming another factor towards the obesity epidemic and unhealthy lifestyles within Britain.
Bullet point's of key information
Quote -
'Before 1994, only about 5 percent of children with diabetes had the type 2 kind. But today, because there are far more overweight kids, 30 to 50 percent of children have type 2 diabetes according to the National Diabetes Education Program'
The quote highlights the significant increase in the number of children with type 2 diabetes (caused by obesity and overweight issues) since 1994, due to the increase in fast food chains and children's exposure to unhealthy foods. Also children watch alot more television and are exposed to fast food advertisements and products. This can make children influenced to buy what they see on television. Leading to more of a weight problem in the future.
Book 2 -
How another documentary hooked their audience (treatment)
I had a look at the documentary Supersize me, which had a similar narrative. Linking to the effects of unhealthy eating and the impact it is having. The documentary uses a number of techniques to apply interest and hook an audience in to watch more. For example, the opening scene to the documentary shows a bunch of school children singing fast food chain related songs. This will show the audience how passionate and interested young children are within fast food as they are the most influenced by. They may not know any health warnings at all and just strive for the good tasting food, this opening clip may show the audience how much of an impact fast food chains have made on children and almost become a shock factor and hook the audience to see more. The audience will see how children are exposed and an easy target for fast food. Leaving the viewer shocked and interested to find out more/finish the documentary. After this opening scene, melodic flute music begins to play. Starting out soft and then becoming more hard hitting and upbeat, creating tension for the audience to find out what happens. This music fits alongside the narrative and becomes more intense or dramatic when the effects of unhealthy eating are shown, or when something dramatic happens within the documentary. Morgan Spurlock also uses hard hitting facts and opinions to illustrate the effect of fast food around America and reveal to viewers how themselves may be wasting money for their own pleasure by ruining their body with fast food. This is a great technique to attract and hook an audience especially if people in the audience can relate to what is being said. If somebody see's a bit of themselves in something they instantly want to see more.
Research Diary
Website 1 - Cardiovascular Disease (published December 2011)
- www.tameside.gov.uk/scrutiny/personal/cvd/summary.pdf
Quote -
'Partner organisations have acknowledged that CVD levels are too high in Tameside and measures are being taken to bring the level down, particularly among under-75's. There is a clear strategic vision and action plan to tackle risk factors associated with CVD, such as tobacco misuse,alcohol misuse, low levels of physical activity and obesity
The quote explains how the levels of cardiovascular disease related issues are too high within Tameside among people under 75. As a result there is a plan to address the risk factors related with the disease and poor health in general. Therefore attempting to tackle the main factors and make an impacting change.
Bullet point's of key information
- Tameside has a high rate of mortality from cardiovascular related causes
- High blood pressure, smoking and alcohol consumption are more noticeable in Tameside than the country as a whole
- Tameside and Glossop aims to reduce the mortality rate for under-75's from cardiovascular disease by 28%
- The main factors contributing to cardiovascular disease are tobacco use, alcohol use, low levels of physical activity and obesity.
I found this information relevant and easy to understand. The opening information explained the existence of high mortality rates in Tameside due to cardiovascular disease. The website also had a number of useful conclusions which helped my research. I also think the information is not bias, as it is provided by a validated source and provides factual information. Not an opinion.
Website 2 - Greater Manchester News (published February 2012)
- http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/threat-to-ban-takeaways-near-tameside-681110
Quote -
'The principal wrote to the council saying students were buying too much food from a burger van parked outside the college gates. She said "in a world where there is a growing concern about adolescent obesity and related health problems we believe we have a duty to try to both serve healthy food within college and to teach young people about the benefits of eating healthily'' '
The quote is a complaint from our college principal to the council explaining how students are more frequently choosing to eat from an unhealthy burger van close to the college gates instead of eating healthy food from the college. Becoming a factor to why there is a growing obesity epidemic in the Tameside area and one of the main options for college students is unhealthy take-aways in the area.
Bullet point's of key information
- The council believes there has to be a further barrier to more takeaways coming into Tameside
- Kieran Quinn says promoting healthy eating has failed to halt the obesity epidemic
- Teachers are complaining students are eating far too much junk food
- Students have to resist to eat junk food, and eat the healthy food served at college
Newspaper 1 - Daily Mail article (published October 2010)
- http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1315302/UK-restaurants-asked-print-calories-menus-combat-unhealthy-eating.html
Quote -
'As a nation we are too unhealthy. We cost the NHS billions of pounds a year through bad diets,lack of exercise and poor lifestyle choices. We can and must improve this. Today, the agency will release details of 33 companies which decreased their portion sizes and changed the ingredients in some of their products'
This quote explains how the NHS spends billions of pounds a year in operations and treatment for people with bad health or unhealthy eating related issues. In result, the government have forced so far 33 food companies to reduce the size of their portions and change their ingredients to atleast attempt to become 'more healthy'. The companies have also been forced to provide calorie information for all of their food products.
Bullet point's of key information
- Burger king and Pizza Hut have introduced calorie labelling
- The government have introduced plans
- Companies have had to reduce the salt in their foods by 5% to meet FSA guidelines
- Restaurants need to print calorie information on menu's to inform customers
Newspaper 2 - Daily Mail article (published by Daniel Bates June 2011)
- http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2009128/Junk-food-adverts-really-make-children-hungry-unhealthy-meals-say-scientists.html
Quote -
'After exposure to junk food adverts there was a significant increase in the number of children who chose branded and non branded foods that are bad for them. The effect was especially true for children who usually watched more than 21 hours of television a week'
This quote explains how children who are exposed to junk food and unhealthy foods in general on television are far more likely to choose/ask for the same types of food when shopping with parents are asked what they want to eat. The quote also says how this is more frequent in children who watch large amounts of television. Becoming another factor towards the obesity epidemic and unhealthy lifestyles within Britain.
Bullet point's of key information
- Britain is said to be on the brink of an obesity epidemic
- In 2011, 15% of 15 year olds in England were obese
- Fast food advertisements have a big influence on children's minds
- Dr Boyland claims such adverts should be shown at night when children are in bed
This information was relevant and easy to understand, providing me with some facts and figures and valuable information to help build my documentary. It gave an insight to the influence these big brands have on children and how it has become a factor to unhealthy lifestyles within the UK. Although the information may be slightly biased as it does not take into consideration the companies who own these brands that may just be trying to make money. These companies intentions may not be to influence children and children may not be their target audience.
Book 1 - 'Fast Food' published by Stephanie Watson (published 2008)
- http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=pCgSvoj4SBwC&pg=PA7&dq=fast+food+and+young+people&hl=en&sa=X&ei=yUCPUtL6MOmy7AbpkYC4DA&ved=0CFMQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q&f=false
- http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=pCgSvoj4SBwC&pg=PA7&dq=fast+food+and+young+people&hl=en&sa=X&ei=yUCPUtL6MOmy7AbpkYC4DA&ved=0CFMQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q&f=false
Quote -
'Before 1994, only about 5 percent of children with diabetes had the type 2 kind. But today, because there are far more overweight kids, 30 to 50 percent of children have type 2 diabetes according to the National Diabetes Education Program'
The quote highlights the significant increase in the number of children with type 2 diabetes (caused by obesity and overweight issues) since 1994, due to the increase in fast food chains and children's exposure to unhealthy foods. Also children watch alot more television and are exposed to fast food advertisements and products. This can make children influenced to buy what they see on television. Leading to more of a weight problem in the future.
Book 2 -
This information was taken from Google Books; Multicultural Citizenship: Chapter 5: freedom and culture. Written by Will Kymlicka:
How another documentary hooked their audience (treatment)
I had a look at the documentary Supersize me, which had a similar narrative. Linking to the effects of unhealthy eating and the impact it is having. The documentary uses a number of techniques to apply interest and hook an audience in to watch more. For example, the opening scene to the documentary shows a bunch of school children singing fast food chain related songs. This will show the audience how passionate and interested young children are within fast food as they are the most influenced by. They may not know any health warnings at all and just strive for the good tasting food, this opening clip may show the audience how much of an impact fast food chains have made on children and almost become a shock factor and hook the audience to see more. The audience will see how children are exposed and an easy target for fast food. Leaving the viewer shocked and interested to find out more/finish the documentary. After this opening scene, melodic flute music begins to play. Starting out soft and then becoming more hard hitting and upbeat, creating tension for the audience to find out what happens. This music fits alongside the narrative and becomes more intense or dramatic when the effects of unhealthy eating are shown, or when something dramatic happens within the documentary. Morgan Spurlock also uses hard hitting facts and opinions to illustrate the effect of fast food around America and reveal to viewers how themselves may be wasting money for their own pleasure by ruining their body with fast food. This is a great technique to attract and hook an audience especially if people in the audience can relate to what is being said. If somebody see's a bit of themselves in something they instantly want to see more.
Pitch
Everyday our society is getting more and more diverse as people from different cultures and ethnicities move into our community. However, due to their differences these people tend to live secluded lives, and so therefore I would like to find out what we can do and what we do to support these different cultures. The holiday period is approaching and all I ever see are Christian decorations and celebrations, but what about people who follow different religions, they should also be supported and be able to celebrate on a bigger scale. Christmas is a time for peace and understanding, so why doesn't the council put up a verity of decorations for all beliefs. Everyone should be treated as equals, it doesn't matter what the majority support, we need to start considering the minority. I went to the local markets in Ashton and noticed that all the stalls are very mainstream, selling goods focusing more on a general appeal. However, there is one food stall set up by a man of Jamaican heritage who cooks some of the delicacies from his country. I was planning on asking him whether or not he feels that we do enough for other cultures and if the community should be more active in welcoming people of different nationalities. I was also going to go to a local area nearby that houses people who follow Islam, hoping that I could ask them the same questions and also find out what they do to celebrate the holiday season. As well as finding out the view points of the minorities, I am also going to question the majority, to see their points of view on the subject matter. Through this I will find out how many of the general public do enough for different cultures.
As Manchester is a large city we will benefit from becoming a multi cultural community. In a number of ways we can be more diverse.
Homework for tonight
analyse another documentary for the things they use to hook an audience (similar audience)
start primary research
start primary research
Research diary - 2 books, 2 websites, 2 magazines/newspapers/journals (secondary&qualitative data)
on your topic/target audience/how to make a documentary
How to set out your diary -
subheadings
- books (get a quote from a book, write page no. and author name underneath) summarise what the quote means in your own words. How useful was this research? Was it relevant? biased? easy to understand? will it help inform your documentary? Find a section from a book that is useful to you and summarise it into 3 or 4 bullet points.
- websites (must be academic/relevant information, find a section from a website that is useful to you and summarise into 3 or 4 bullet points. How useful? relevant,biased,easy to understand? will it inform your documentary. Find a quote from a website, link is needed with title of page and the author of the site. Summarise what this quote means into your own words)
- magazines/newspapers/journals (find a quote, link to the name of the author/title of mag/paper/journal and date it was published. Summarise what this quote means into your own words. How useful was this research? relevant? biased? easy to understand? help documentary? Read a section of the article and summarise into 3/4 bullet points pulling out key information)
analyse other documentaries for the things they use to hook that audience. (music,images,statistics,people,language,techniques etc)
undertake primary research with target audience - ask age,do you watch documentaries, what do they watch, what genre/public topics are they interested in, ask about your topic.
Treatment - what is in it and how to set it out.
1 - who is the target audience for your documentary? age,gender,interests
2 - how you are going to target your audience?
3 - how you will be better than other documentaries?
4 - plot/outline (what will your audience learn? make links to some research from your diary)
on your topic/target audience/how to make a documentary
How to set out your diary -
subheadings
- books (get a quote from a book, write page no. and author name underneath) summarise what the quote means in your own words. How useful was this research? Was it relevant? biased? easy to understand? will it help inform your documentary? Find a section from a book that is useful to you and summarise it into 3 or 4 bullet points.
- websites (must be academic/relevant information, find a section from a website that is useful to you and summarise into 3 or 4 bullet points. How useful? relevant,biased,easy to understand? will it inform your documentary. Find a quote from a website, link is needed with title of page and the author of the site. Summarise what this quote means into your own words)
- magazines/newspapers/journals (find a quote, link to the name of the author/title of mag/paper/journal and date it was published. Summarise what this quote means into your own words. How useful was this research? relevant? biased? easy to understand? help documentary? Read a section of the article and summarise into 3/4 bullet points pulling out key information)
analyse other documentaries for the things they use to hook that audience. (music,images,statistics,people,language,techniques etc)
undertake primary research with target audience - ask age,do you watch documentaries, what do they watch, what genre/public topics are they interested in, ask about your topic.
Treatment - what is in it and how to set it out.
1 - who is the target audience for your documentary? age,gender,interests
2 - how you are going to target your audience?
3 - how you will be better than other documentaries?
4 - plot/outline (what will your audience learn? make links to some research from your diary)
Thursday, 14 November 2013
Unit 1 Assignment 1 - Finished
Time
What is a shooting schedule?
A shooting schedule is a plan of each days shooting for a film project. It is usually monitored by the assistant director. A timeline is also used which states when and where production resources are used.
Why is it important to have a shooting schedule?
Because it provides detailed information about the actors,locations,technicians,special vehicles, special effects etc and is given to the producers and everyone involved in the film.
How long does it take to get clearance for music/clips?
Depending on the piece of music/specific clip, on average it takes between 6-8 weeks. It varies depending on how many writers and producers are involved, how many publishers you need to speak to, where they are in the world, time barriers and language differences.
How long does it take to get clearance for music/clips?
Depending on the piece of music/specific clip, on average it takes between 6-8 weeks. It varies depending on how many writers and producers are involved, how many publishers you need to speak to, where they are in the world, time barriers and language differences.
Personnel
Crew for supersize me -
Martin Czembor (sound engineer)
- He has worked in the sound department on 108 different projects so he is reliable and experienced, he was worked on films such as Lake City and Colony. He has a large catalogue of work.
Jonah Tobias (digital artist)
- Has his own website and gallery. Professional and well known artist. Will have good understanding and experience towards the project.
Svilen Dimitrov (animator)
- Has directed two shorts of his own. Very reliable and has a good understanding.
Tracy Boulian (camera operator)
- award winning photojournalist therefore she has a large amount of experience and knowledge when working on projects.
Why is it important to have the right crew? Working with the right people will push each other to do better work, if the people around you are professional and care about the project you are working on then the team will connect and there will be a positive energy and good ideas and work ethic bouncing off each other. You will work to impress other crew members who have a passion for the project and you may become more successful because they need you to be. You will also respect these people in your crew may have the same creative talent as each other.
Finance
Where do you get the money to make a documentary?
Donations -
Some people are just into movies and documentaries and like to help out where they can and donate. Fans of independent movies and current fan bases may donate towards a project depending on the genre or subject matter. If they are interested or are fans of the certain genre they may donate a small fund. The more donations made the better and this will help towards the budget.
Documentary Fund - Certain companies and websites provide this service, for example sundance.org provides a documentary fund granting money towards independent documentary films.
There are 3 types of grants this website provides;
Development fund (up to $20,000) no reel is required with the submission but trailers,teasers,posters and clips are highly encouraged. A previous work sample is also required.
Production/post production (up to $50,000) this grant provides funds to projects offering approximately 20 - 75 minutes of edited material for the project being proposed. The reel should convey the narrative and aesthetic approach for the final film. A previous work sample should also be included.
Audience engagement (up to $20,000) these grants provide funding for strategic audience and community engagement campaigns.
How did the documentary you have watched get funded?
I think the director of Super Size Me funded his own film as he owns his own company, he may of took out a loan to fund his documentary and may have took donations from business partners or people involved in the subject campaign. He may have used the production companies involved (Kathbur pictures, The Con and Studio On Hudson) and then paid back with the money the film made.
How much does it cost to clear music or clips from other TV/film companies?
Before you can get clearance for a piece or music or clips, you have to show your project, so that the company that owns the song or clip can see how you plan to use it. Not only do they want to see if they are okay with the specific music or clip, they also want to see how much you are using it. This helps them determine the price they will charge you. In terms of pricing, the owners and publishers have pretty free reign to charge you what they want. The owner will usually want an advance plus royalty on all sales. You could be asked to give up more than 50% to the publisher, depending on how you use the piece of media.
Locations
Where was the documentary you have chosen filmed?
In total there was 23 filming locations, containing hospitals and offices within different cities around the USA. The main locations the documentary took place were
- Wisconsin
- West Virginia
- New York City
- Chicago, Illinois
- Houston, Texas
- Los Angeles, California
- Worcester, Massachusetts
- Seattle, Washington
What did they do to gain permission to film there? Including certain locations (McDonalds,doctors etc)
It was hard to find any information on how they gained permission, but i imagine the production companies Morgan Spurlock is involved in had to ask for permission to include and film within certain locations such as McDonalds by contacting the franchise or speaking to managers in store. This goes the same for the medical clinics and high schools included, contacting the property owners. They would of had to contact to grant permission to film there. Because if you wish to film inside a store or restaurant, by law, you need written permission to use the location and to also show the companies trademark name.
Although they wouldn't of needed permission for all locations, for example it is legal to film in public locations and to film passers by. You also do not need permission to document a companies trademark name if you are outside of the building. So for some of the scenes within Super Size Me, they had no reason to grant permission, only for when they were inside company buildings.
Facilities
From the same documentary, find out what kit they may have used, did they have any specialist kit?
In the documentary Super Size me, a Sony DSR-PD150 camera was used as a handheld to create realism. Therefore no specialist kit was necessary, they used this camera in different ways, for example they used it during interviews at a mid/close up level to make it more formal. There are also some small techniques used to make it more interesting.
As no specialist kit was used in this documentary, i had a look at the documentary 'This Film Is Not Rated Yet' and they had used small spy camera equipment placed under the characters scarf and was used in small restaurants and public places. They used this technique to make sure people did not realise they were being recorded. I had a look online and found some websites selling a range of these small cameras and a common one was
- DIGIFLEX spy camera ($25)
What camera/sound/editing/equipment will you need to make your documentary?
I would personally follow guidelines of basic documentary equipment used within the industry. Theres a lot of capable gear available to choose from, but we will make sure to assemble a kit that will allow us to record good sound and video. We would have to choose a microphone to use, for interviews or talking in public we could either use a boom pole with a shotgun microphone or a lavier mic. We would connect these to the field recorder to change levels etc. We would use a camera available from helen, preferably one efficient for film. We would also use a tripod for different locations maybe to film a certain location for example a street or building or passers by. We would pretty much be set to go once we have sound and video recording equipment. As extremely large priced equipment isn't necessary.
For editing, Final Cut Pro will be required. Along with external hard drives for media storage and backup. We will also use a good pair of headphones to listen to our sound mix.
Luckily at college we can borrow the equipment for no charge, but if we was working in the industry it would be different. For example, here are some prices of basic equipment needed.
Canon M500 Camcorder ($350) This records in full HD 720p-1080p, therefore this camera gets the job done and is brilliant for a starter camcorder. But wouldn't be used by big name production companies as it may miss out economically for the industry.
Audio Technica lavier microphone ($30)
Roland sound recorder ($200)
Tripod (roughly $30-$75) A tripod is a definite yes piece of equipment required when collecting kit.
These are just the prices for basic and starter equipment. Big companies within the industry would have a larger catalogue of equipment with higher prices. There are a number of websites online advertising their products for sale and there is an incredibly huge range to choose from. Depending on your budget.
Why is the right kit important?
Materials/copyrights
From a documentary, what archive or clips from other TV/documentaries have they used? Who would they need to get the clearance from to use this footage?
The documentary 'The impostor' used TV news clips from when the narrative occurred. For example they used an interview between the imposter and a news crew. In order to do this, the producers would of had to obtain permission from the company that presently owns the clips. The material may of changed ownership since its original release. There is often a charge for such use.You also need permission from the copyright holder, and a release from the person(s) in the clip.
have they used popular music, who would they have to get the clearance from?
They used a song throughout the documentary named 'queen bitch' by David Bowie. He is a popular singer and well known therefore the production company would have to get in touch with David Bowie's record label and obtain permission to use this song. As mentioned earlier in the presentation, the record label owners and head's would have to see how the song was used and how frequently it ran through the documentary.
What is a clearance/copyright, and who do you pay to get one?
The definition of clearance is the official authorization for something to take place. For example people who want to use certain music within their project would have to obtain clearance from the owner of the music. Without their permission it is disallowed.
A copyright protects the creator of certain material from being copied by third parties. For example, a songwriter may own a copyright on their song to ensure nobody may steal lyrics or the instrumental.
The copyright owner has the exclusive legal rights to enforce nobody reproduces the work, creates copies, performs the work publicly and distribute copies.
You can obtain a copyright in a few simple steps -
Ensure you add the C icon to the bottom of your page, its that simple.
As a legal source explains - http://www.legalzoom.com/copyrights-faq/how-to-obtain-copyright.html
''The way in which copyright protection is secured is frequently misunderstood. Copyright is secured automatically when a work is created. A work is "created" when it is fixed in a tangible form for the first time. For example, a song (the "work") can be fixed in sheet music, phonograph disks or both. No publication, registration or other action in the Copyright Office is required to secure copyright. There are, however, definite advantages to registration, including the ability to sue for infringement. ''
Crew for supersize me -
Martin Czembor (sound engineer)
- He has worked in the sound department on 108 different projects so he is reliable and experienced, he was worked on films such as Lake City and Colony. He has a large catalogue of work.
Jonah Tobias (digital artist)
- Has his own website and gallery. Professional and well known artist. Will have good understanding and experience towards the project.
Svilen Dimitrov (animator)
- Has directed two shorts of his own. Very reliable and has a good understanding.
Tracy Boulian (camera operator)
- award winning photojournalist therefore she has a large amount of experience and knowledge when working on projects.
Why is it important to have the right crew? Working with the right people will push each other to do better work, if the people around you are professional and care about the project you are working on then the team will connect and there will be a positive energy and good ideas and work ethic bouncing off each other. You will work to impress other crew members who have a passion for the project and you may become more successful because they need you to be. You will also respect these people in your crew may have the same creative talent as each other.
Finance
Where do you get the money to make a documentary?
Donations -
Some people are just into movies and documentaries and like to help out where they can and donate. Fans of independent movies and current fan bases may donate towards a project depending on the genre or subject matter. If they are interested or are fans of the certain genre they may donate a small fund. The more donations made the better and this will help towards the budget.
Documentary Fund - Certain companies and websites provide this service, for example sundance.org provides a documentary fund granting money towards independent documentary films.
There are 3 types of grants this website provides;
Development fund (up to $20,000) no reel is required with the submission but trailers,teasers,posters and clips are highly encouraged. A previous work sample is also required.
Production/post production (up to $50,000) this grant provides funds to projects offering approximately 20 - 75 minutes of edited material for the project being proposed. The reel should convey the narrative and aesthetic approach for the final film. A previous work sample should also be included.
Audience engagement (up to $20,000) these grants provide funding for strategic audience and community engagement campaigns.
How did the documentary you have watched get funded?
I think the director of Super Size Me funded his own film as he owns his own company, he may of took out a loan to fund his documentary and may have took donations from business partners or people involved in the subject campaign. He may have used the production companies involved (Kathbur pictures, The Con and Studio On Hudson) and then paid back with the money the film made.
How much does it cost to clear music or clips from other TV/film companies?
Before you can get clearance for a piece or music or clips, you have to show your project, so that the company that owns the song or clip can see how you plan to use it. Not only do they want to see if they are okay with the specific music or clip, they also want to see how much you are using it. This helps them determine the price they will charge you. In terms of pricing, the owners and publishers have pretty free reign to charge you what they want. The owner will usually want an advance plus royalty on all sales. You could be asked to give up more than 50% to the publisher, depending on how you use the piece of media.
Locations
Where was the documentary you have chosen filmed?
In total there was 23 filming locations, containing hospitals and offices within different cities around the USA. The main locations the documentary took place were
- Wisconsin
- West Virginia
- New York City
- Chicago, Illinois
- Houston, Texas
- Los Angeles, California
- Worcester, Massachusetts
- Seattle, Washington
What did they do to gain permission to film there? Including certain locations (McDonalds,doctors etc)
It was hard to find any information on how they gained permission, but i imagine the production companies Morgan Spurlock is involved in had to ask for permission to include and film within certain locations such as McDonalds by contacting the franchise or speaking to managers in store. This goes the same for the medical clinics and high schools included, contacting the property owners. They would of had to contact to grant permission to film there. Because if you wish to film inside a store or restaurant, by law, you need written permission to use the location and to also show the companies trademark name.
Although they wouldn't of needed permission for all locations, for example it is legal to film in public locations and to film passers by. You also do not need permission to document a companies trademark name if you are outside of the building. So for some of the scenes within Super Size Me, they had no reason to grant permission, only for when they were inside company buildings.
Facilities
From the same documentary, find out what kit they may have used, did they have any specialist kit?
In the documentary Super Size me, a Sony DSR-PD150 camera was used as a handheld to create realism. Therefore no specialist kit was necessary, they used this camera in different ways, for example they used it during interviews at a mid/close up level to make it more formal. There are also some small techniques used to make it more interesting.
As no specialist kit was used in this documentary, i had a look at the documentary 'This Film Is Not Rated Yet' and they had used small spy camera equipment placed under the characters scarf and was used in small restaurants and public places. They used this technique to make sure people did not realise they were being recorded. I had a look online and found some websites selling a range of these small cameras and a common one was
- DIGIFLEX spy camera ($25)
What camera/sound/editing/equipment will you need to make your documentary?
I would personally follow guidelines of basic documentary equipment used within the industry. Theres a lot of capable gear available to choose from, but we will make sure to assemble a kit that will allow us to record good sound and video. We would have to choose a microphone to use, for interviews or talking in public we could either use a boom pole with a shotgun microphone or a lavier mic. We would connect these to the field recorder to change levels etc. We would use a camera available from helen, preferably one efficient for film. We would also use a tripod for different locations maybe to film a certain location for example a street or building or passers by. We would pretty much be set to go once we have sound and video recording equipment. As extremely large priced equipment isn't necessary.
For editing, Final Cut Pro will be required. Along with external hard drives for media storage and backup. We will also use a good pair of headphones to listen to our sound mix.
Luckily at college we can borrow the equipment for no charge, but if we was working in the industry it would be different. For example, here are some prices of basic equipment needed.
Canon M500 Camcorder ($350) This records in full HD 720p-1080p, therefore this camera gets the job done and is brilliant for a starter camcorder. But wouldn't be used by big name production companies as it may miss out economically for the industry.
Audio Technica lavier microphone ($30)
Roland sound recorder ($200)
Tripod (roughly $30-$75) A tripod is a definite yes piece of equipment required when collecting kit.
These are just the prices for basic and starter equipment. Big companies within the industry would have a larger catalogue of equipment with higher prices. There are a number of websites online advertising their products for sale and there is an incredibly huge range to choose from. Depending on your budget.
Why is the right kit important?
Materials/copyrights
From a documentary, what archive or clips from other TV/documentaries have they used? Who would they need to get the clearance from to use this footage?
The documentary 'The impostor' used TV news clips from when the narrative occurred. For example they used an interview between the imposter and a news crew. In order to do this, the producers would of had to obtain permission from the company that presently owns the clips. The material may of changed ownership since its original release. There is often a charge for such use.You also need permission from the copyright holder, and a release from the person(s) in the clip.
have they used popular music, who would they have to get the clearance from?
They used a song throughout the documentary named 'queen bitch' by David Bowie. He is a popular singer and well known therefore the production company would have to get in touch with David Bowie's record label and obtain permission to use this song. As mentioned earlier in the presentation, the record label owners and head's would have to see how the song was used and how frequently it ran through the documentary.
What is a clearance/copyright, and who do you pay to get one?
The definition of clearance is the official authorization for something to take place. For example people who want to use certain music within their project would have to obtain clearance from the owner of the music. Without their permission it is disallowed.
A copyright protects the creator of certain material from being copied by third parties. For example, a songwriter may own a copyright on their song to ensure nobody may steal lyrics or the instrumental.
The copyright owner has the exclusive legal rights to enforce nobody reproduces the work, creates copies, performs the work publicly and distribute copies.
You can obtain a copyright in a few simple steps -
Ensure you add the C icon to the bottom of your page, its that simple.
As a legal source explains - http://www.legalzoom.com/copyrights-faq/how-to-obtain-copyright.html
''The way in which copyright protection is secured is frequently misunderstood. Copyright is secured automatically when a work is created. A work is "created" when it is fixed in a tangible form for the first time. For example, a song (the "work") can be fixed in sheet music, phonograph disks or both. No publication, registration or other action in the Copyright Office is required to secure copyright. There are, however, definite advantages to registration, including the ability to sue for infringement. ''
LINK TO CHART
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1seWHJVbvAiL2V-VXwzf_R3TvOzjwUViGYbtSzfDC7tE/edit?usp=sharing
Clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1S42ce9K8Y(3;15)
1) when i watched this i felt slightly on edge but at the same time i knew what was going to happen, its a horror film, you expect gorey stuff
2) my reaction was i laughed, something about a mans head being shut in a helmet full of spikes thats just slightly humorous
My Reaction Was the oppositional reading, i didnt find it gorey i just found it funny, doesnt mean i didnt enjoy it, just means i didnt find it bad.
Effects Model
What the Effects model?
Moral Panic
Uses and gratification
Unit 6 Assignment 3
Violence is sometimes Gratuitous
Desensitisation: where things don't shock you anymore, finding violence joyable.
Clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1S42ce9K8Y(3;15)
1) when i watched this i felt slightly on edge but at the same time i knew what was going to happen, its a horror film, you expect gorey stuff
2) my reaction was i laughed, something about a mans head being shut in a helmet full of spikes thats just slightly humorous
My Reaction Was the oppositional reading, i didnt find it gorey i just found it funny, doesnt mean i didnt enjoy it, just means i didnt find it bad.
Effects Model
What the Effects model?
- The Effects Model is a theory, a theory is somebody's idea, this means a theory can be wrong. The effects model is all to do with how the media affects your behaviour.
- Its also named The hypodermic needle/syringe. The metaphorical needle injecting you with bad ideas, if you see behaviour in the TV or a video game, you will copy it. I disagree with it slightly, if you have common sense then you wont do something stupid, but obviously some people who are emotionally challenged or children may be influenced by stuff they see. Moral Panic.
- I personally disagree with this theory because surely not EVERYONE that sees something on TV is going to go out and repeat what they have seen because most people have a certain level of common sense. On the other hand things that have been seen on TV and repeated in real life, they're usually dark and murderous things though. Possibly Kids could see certain things and pick up on them and could become indoctrinated to act like what they have seen. But personally on the whole i disagree with this Theory.
Moral Panic
- Moral Panic means creating a panic about something that is seen to be damaging our society.
- Its a loop that essentially blames the media for any issues it possibly can and people are persuaded into thinking that the issue is a global thing therfor making everyone panic but not solving the apparent issue.
- its usally films and games with violence in are mostly blamed for moral panic.
The issue within Moral panic is that it just makes everything become an easy target to be blamed. For example if a 14 year old child gets hold of a 18 rated game, kills someone in the game then repeats that murder in real life the Game maker would be to blame. But is it their fault? or is it infact the parents fault? Theres no define proof for this theory its all just rumour and word of mouth.
Uses and gratification
What is uses and gratification?
- Its yet another theory that focuses on why people use media products.
- It trys to say that audiences are active and give reasons why people use the products
- Reasons such as entertainment or to let people know whats going on in the world etc.
Friday, 8 November 2013
Documentary project notes
Unit 3 - Research techniques (research your doc)
Unit 2 - Communication skills (communicate the ideas for your doc)
Unit 1 - Pre production (plan your doc) (15th nov)
Assignment brief for unit 1 is on the asfcmediaproduction blogger site.
Unit 1 assignment 1
- write a blog post using headings
Outcome 1 - finding out how a documentary is made (research and notes)
(Create a blog post titled unit 1 assignment 1 using the following subheadings)
- Use the powerpoint and answer the questions under each heading
Subheadings -
Time (what is a shooting schedule? Why is it important to have a shooting schedule? How long does it take to get clearances for music/clips)
Personnel (from a documentary of your choice, look at the credits, research the crew members (camera,sound,researchers etc) what have they worked on before, what qualifications/experience do they have? Why is it important to get the right crew?)
Finance (Where do you get money from to make a documentary? How did the documentary you have watched get funded? How much is it to clear music or clips from other tv/film companies?)
Locations (Where was the documentary you have chosen filmed? What did they have to do to get permission to film there? Make sure you have commented about why you get permissions,talk about all locations e.g mcdonalds,gym,doctors)
Facilities (From the same documentary, find out what equipment they might have used, any specialist kit that they needed. What camera,sound,editing equipment will you need to make your documentary, what are the technical specs of these? What are the costs of hiring things like this? Why is having the right kit important?)
Materials/Copyrights (From a documentary you have seen what archive or materials from other films/programmes have they used? who would they need to get the clearance from to use this footage? have they used popular music, who would they have to get the clearance from? What is a clearance/copyright/, and who do you pay for/get one?)
Materials/contributors (from a documentary of your choice, find out who the contributors were, who have they interviewed? were their any specialist advisors they needed to make the documentary?)
Unit 2 - Communication skills (communicate the ideas for your doc)
Unit 1 - Pre production (plan your doc) (15th nov)
Assignment brief for unit 1 is on the asfcmediaproduction blogger site.
Unit 1 assignment 1
- write a blog post using headings
Outcome 1 - finding out how a documentary is made (research and notes)
(Create a blog post titled unit 1 assignment 1 using the following subheadings)
- Use the powerpoint and answer the questions under each heading
Subheadings -
Time (what is a shooting schedule? Why is it important to have a shooting schedule? How long does it take to get clearances for music/clips)
Personnel (from a documentary of your choice, look at the credits, research the crew members (camera,sound,researchers etc) what have they worked on before, what qualifications/experience do they have? Why is it important to get the right crew?)
Finance (Where do you get money from to make a documentary? How did the documentary you have watched get funded? How much is it to clear music or clips from other tv/film companies?)
Locations (Where was the documentary you have chosen filmed? What did they have to do to get permission to film there? Make sure you have commented about why you get permissions,talk about all locations e.g mcdonalds,gym,doctors)
Facilities (From the same documentary, find out what equipment they might have used, any specialist kit that they needed. What camera,sound,editing equipment will you need to make your documentary, what are the technical specs of these? What are the costs of hiring things like this? Why is having the right kit important?)
Materials/Copyrights (From a documentary you have seen what archive or materials from other films/programmes have they used? who would they need to get the clearance from to use this footage? have they used popular music, who would they have to get the clearance from? What is a clearance/copyright/, and who do you pay for/get one?)
Materials/contributors (from a documentary of your choice, find out who the contributors were, who have they interviewed? were their any specialist advisors they needed to make the documentary?)
Thursday, 7 November 2013
Unit 3 - research notes
Different types of research
- Qualitative (opinions from people. For example - a film review,discussion,reaction to television programme)
- Quantitative (numbers and data. For example - audience viewing figures,DVD sales,box office sales,audience breakdowns by group, how many men/women)
Lets compare...
Advantages of qualitative
- Results can guide a project to success (feedback)
- Can inform future research
- Is a rich source of information (detailed information)
Disadvantages of qualitative
- Can be tricky to get exact results (may differ)
- Findings are a result of lots of variables (who,where,when)
- Has the impression of being less valid.
Advantages of quantitative
- Easy to analyse (clear results from graphs,charts etc)
- Facts can be used in your favour (percentages,statistics)
Disadvantages of quantitative
- Results are without detail (usually binary,yes or no)
- Doesn't inform you for future research
Research methods -
Primary research - research undertaken by yourself or your group (first hand) (interview,survey,questionnaire,focus groups,participating in internet forums)
Secondary research - previous research undertaken by others that you can use to inform your own research (internet,books,magazines,archive footage,online articles)
Data gathering agencies - certain agencies are set up to gather and publicise information (BARB,TV ratings)
Purposes of research
- Content (the story, what its going to be about, what sources of information you may need? interviewees? Qualitative data will be best for this)
- Equipment
- Crew
- Cast
Audience research which includes -
Audience profiles - audiences can be broken up into the different groups (can market and advertise to specific audience)
Age/Location/gender/sexuality/race/ethnicity/mainstream/alternative/niche
Market research which includes..
- competition (whats already out there, successful documentaries already out, documentaries with similar content)
- competitor analysis (why were competitor documentaries successful? content,style,filmmaker/presenter)
- advertising placement (how should the documentary be marketed? videos,trailers,billboards etc)
Using examples -
- why is it a good example (it may not be the first one you find)
- is it easy to analyse?
- why did you choose that example over others?
- how does the example change/confirm your understanding?
Structure -
Opening - research plan (what your going to do)
production - quality,quantitive, primary,secondary
audience
market
conclude
- Qualitative (opinions from people. For example - a film review,discussion,reaction to television programme)
- Quantitative (numbers and data. For example - audience viewing figures,DVD sales,box office sales,audience breakdowns by group, how many men/women)
Lets compare...
Advantages of qualitative
- Results can guide a project to success (feedback)
- Can inform future research
- Is a rich source of information (detailed information)
Disadvantages of qualitative
- Can be tricky to get exact results (may differ)
- Findings are a result of lots of variables (who,where,when)
- Has the impression of being less valid.
Advantages of quantitative
- Easy to analyse (clear results from graphs,charts etc)
- Facts can be used in your favour (percentages,statistics)
Disadvantages of quantitative
- Results are without detail (usually binary,yes or no)
- Doesn't inform you for future research
Research methods -
Primary research - research undertaken by yourself or your group (first hand) (interview,survey,questionnaire,focus groups,participating in internet forums)
Secondary research - previous research undertaken by others that you can use to inform your own research (internet,books,magazines,archive footage,online articles)
Data gathering agencies - certain agencies are set up to gather and publicise information (BARB,TV ratings)
Purposes of research
- Content (the story, what its going to be about, what sources of information you may need? interviewees? Qualitative data will be best for this)
- Equipment
- Crew
- Cast
Audience research which includes -
Audience profiles - audiences can be broken up into the different groups (can market and advertise to specific audience)
Age/Location/gender/sexuality/race/ethnicity/mainstream/alternative/niche
Market research which includes..
- competition (whats already out there, successful documentaries already out, documentaries with similar content)
- competitor analysis (why were competitor documentaries successful? content,style,filmmaker/presenter)
- advertising placement (how should the documentary be marketed? videos,trailers,billboards etc)
Using examples -
- why is it a good example (it may not be the first one you find)
- is it easy to analyse?
- why did you choose that example over others?
- how does the example change/confirm your understanding?
Structure -
Opening - research plan (what your going to do)
production - quality,quantitive, primary,secondary
audience
market
conclude
Friday, 25 October 2013
Unit 26 assignment 3 FINAL (Updated)
The film i have chosen for my assignment is...
Here is another good example to talk about the use of marketing, as you can see the background is orange/red. The colour red is an eye catching colour which may indicate danger/trouble, this may be an indication to certain events within the narrative. This technique of using specific colours and use of facial expressions may give the audience a deeper meaning and make them intrigued and more determined to see the film. The use of the space orientated background and fictional characters such as yoda are iconographic features that catches the eye of any sci/fi or current star wars fan. Another great way to market their film by the use of small details that may entail another meaning. For example the character at the top, his face has been enlarged larger than the other character which could be an insight towards his role in the narrative, his facial expression says this too. Maybe he will play an important and dramatic role within the film and this opens questions within fans/viewers minds to what may be revealed.
.jpg)
Without such a positive response to each or the majority of the films, there wouldnt of been so many sequels and spin offs etc. So there is definitely an impact.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oX2_MmqOU-c - Here is a link to a Star wars tribute to Luke Skywalker, the anticipating music along with the clips shows the fans passion for the films. There is thousands online which identifys how powerful a connection between a series of movies and fans.
STAR WARS
Trailer for latest release -
http://starwars.com/watch/ep3_trailer.html
Target Audience -
Star Wars has a cult fan base which is still running now even after the end of the films and books. Large groups of fans have been known to camp outside movie theaters this just shows their dedication to these films not treating them as 'just' a film but as a huge part of their lives. These fan bases are like cults where a member will have a large portion of there lives devoted to the Star Wars Saga. Star Wars targeted audience was directed at the male teenage market, being sci-fi dubbed as a 'epic space opera', it created another fantasy world for viewers to go into and this appeals to a wide audience this is because it has significant help with them forget about problems in their own lives, and lets them go into this dream world. Star Wars is known all over the world, Lucasfilm and AtomFillms holds a annual contest called 'The official Star Wars fan film awards' which showcase the growing genre of 'fan films' which are made for and by the fans about the fans of the Star Wars Saga.
Marketing and success -
Click to see image
Look at the link above, the image displayed is a poster from one of the star wars movies. As you can see the iconic lightsabers are evident, these are one of the most common/iconic props within star wars, this is a good way to market the film because people see the lightsabers and instantly know its star wars. This is a good technique to target the mainstream fans. There is spaceships in the bottom left corner which identify's the film is of sci fi genre. This could attract sci fi fans who may have not seen a star wars movie before. The space orientated background would do the same. The dark atmosphere with darth vader in the back could foreshadow the narrative and attract the explorers within psychographics. This is an effective poster as it attracts two groups of psychographics and it is an interesting eye catching poster. It targets the stereotypical sci fi fans. The whole dark nature of the poster is set within most advertising products for the sega and it has become an iconic layout and fans recognize the theme immediately.
Here is a snapshot from the star wars website. As you can see there is plenty of options for fans to attend. For instance there is links to games and activities,soundboards and even e cards. This is an effective way to market once a film(s) has already been released. fans could then come to the website to see what else star wars they could gain. This is effective as fandom is created for whoever would use these tools and there's a guarantee they will see the next film or product released intertwined with star wars. The Star Wars Novels were not so popular. Of course, they were well known, but not popular. Then, when the movies came by, the graphics on them were top class for that time, and the storyline was beautifully grafted. So people just went for the best there was, and, it was Star Wars. Now, it is popular in games,brands,clothing and even a religion. This gives the star wars sega an amazing amount of power. So, it is becoming popular as an escape route for those who find reality uninteresting. I think the owners and producers of the franchise use these marketing techniques to expand the target audience. Providing mini games online may attract the younger audience where as soundtracks and e cards may attract the older/teenage audience and provide them with something more than just the film. This is a great versatile marketing technique to create a larger target audience and still hold a fandom community around itself.
Fans strive for more than of one of the highest grossing film franchises of all time. Once they have watched the films they want more. This is a great opportunity for the franchise to market towards these fans with the products they release. A 'real' fan would want to purchase books,posters,toys and any other star wars related product they can get their hand on. Look at the picture below, you can see that some toys released by star wars are collectible, and don't go for the cheapest price. Fans strive for these items so much to feel like they are a part of the buzz surrounding the films and almost make it realism.
Since the first release in 1977 until its latest release in 2008, in total worldwide box offices sales Star Wars has generated an average of $4,485,672,683.So in my opinion, the franchise is extremely successful and in most places around the world is a household name. Especially after considering the amount of merchandise the franchise has produced and even smaller independent businesses, it is clear how much of an impact Star Wars has had around the world. Anything from darth vader costumes to fridge magnets to star wars inspired baby clothes. You can find it. While the Star Wars films have been met with much acclaim and form the core of the franchise, it also enjoys a highly successful expanded universe, which features television series, toys, video games, books and even spin-off films. There’s approximately 70 million Star Wars books in print and its range of toys have accrued around $12 billion over the years, eclipsing the revenue generated by the films themselves.
Target Audience -
Star Wars has a cult fan base which is still running now even after the end of the films and books. Large groups of fans have been known to camp outside movie theaters this just shows their dedication to these films not treating them as 'just' a film but as a huge part of their lives. These fan bases are like cults where a member will have a large portion of there lives devoted to the Star Wars Saga. Star Wars targeted audience was directed at the male teenage market, being sci-fi dubbed as a 'epic space opera', it created another fantasy world for viewers to go into and this appeals to a wide audience this is because it has significant help with them forget about problems in their own lives, and lets them go into this dream world. Star Wars is known all over the world, Lucasfilm and AtomFillms holds a annual contest called 'The official Star Wars fan film awards' which showcase the growing genre of 'fan films' which are made for and by the fans about the fans of the Star Wars Saga.
Marketing and success -
Click to see image
Look at the link above, the image displayed is a poster from one of the star wars movies. As you can see the iconic lightsabers are evident, these are one of the most common/iconic props within star wars, this is a good way to market the film because people see the lightsabers and instantly know its star wars. This is a good technique to target the mainstream fans. There is spaceships in the bottom left corner which identify's the film is of sci fi genre. This could attract sci fi fans who may have not seen a star wars movie before. The space orientated background would do the same. The dark atmosphere with darth vader in the back could foreshadow the narrative and attract the explorers within psychographics. This is an effective poster as it attracts two groups of psychographics and it is an interesting eye catching poster. It targets the stereotypical sci fi fans. The whole dark nature of the poster is set within most advertising products for the sega and it has become an iconic layout and fans recognize the theme immediately.
Here is a snapshot from the star wars website. As you can see there is plenty of options for fans to attend. For instance there is links to games and activities,soundboards and even e cards. This is an effective way to market once a film(s) has already been released. fans could then come to the website to see what else star wars they could gain. This is effective as fandom is created for whoever would use these tools and there's a guarantee they will see the next film or product released intertwined with star wars. The Star Wars Novels were not so popular. Of course, they were well known, but not popular. Then, when the movies came by, the graphics on them were top class for that time, and the storyline was beautifully grafted. So people just went for the best there was, and, it was Star Wars. Now, it is popular in games,brands,clothing and even a religion. This gives the star wars sega an amazing amount of power. So, it is becoming popular as an escape route for those who find reality uninteresting. I think the owners and producers of the franchise use these marketing techniques to expand the target audience. Providing mini games online may attract the younger audience where as soundtracks and e cards may attract the older/teenage audience and provide them with something more than just the film. This is a great versatile marketing technique to create a larger target audience and still hold a fandom community around itself.
Fans strive for more than of one of the highest grossing film franchises of all time. Once they have watched the films they want more. This is a great opportunity for the franchise to market towards these fans with the products they release. A 'real' fan would want to purchase books,posters,toys and any other star wars related product they can get their hand on. Look at the picture below, you can see that some toys released by star wars are collectible, and don't go for the cheapest price. Fans strive for these items so much to feel like they are a part of the buzz surrounding the films and almost make it realism.
Since the first release in 1977 until its latest release in 2008, in total worldwide box offices sales Star Wars has generated an average of $4,485,672,683.So in my opinion, the franchise is extremely successful and in most places around the world is a household name. Especially after considering the amount of merchandise the franchise has produced and even smaller independent businesses, it is clear how much of an impact Star Wars has had around the world. Anything from darth vader costumes to fridge magnets to star wars inspired baby clothes. You can find it. While the Star Wars films have been met with much acclaim and form the core of the franchise, it also enjoys a highly successful expanded universe, which features television series, toys, video games, books and even spin-off films. There’s approximately 70 million Star Wars books in print and its range of toys have accrued around $12 billion over the years, eclipsing the revenue generated by the films themselves.
Comparison -
For my comparison I have chosen to talk about the Twilight series.
The whole twilight sega has a similar dark and eerie theme to its marketing products. For example the posters have a similar layout. Using colours to provide an insight towards the narrative. For example look at this poster,
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dMIJ4iX4eAifUi8cfTw7BGe3XyhWDw2UYjGzDgu_B7kwYsl_nljGh55g7RVtU1p4iSQiY9DzW-JmJ-Kaix7AsLAVtGX9mUGhL8DMaBAXahsKL45lcLS5ZTxg-ManIO_Ikc51qpfPZuyG/s1600/twilight+poster_1.jpg
As you can see its similar to the star wars poster, with a dark and eerie setting containing certain colours to entail what may happen within the plot. Also bringing main characters to the forefront to highlight their importance and role within the narrative. This seems to be a common marketing technique within posters. Twilight also has a huge fan base, just searching the word 'twilight' comes up with the relationship between the actors,fan sites,merchandise and news.
Although there isn't as many films as star wars, and hasn't been around as long. Twilight has still made a huge impact racking up a total of $3,352,322,180 since its first release to the latest one in 2012.
Fans have also been known to go to extreme limits within the twilight fandom community. Giving their opinions on the actors personal life affairs or situations to even giving abuse over social networks such as twitter.
A great marketing technique twilight used was releasing 3 different posters for one of their latest movies. This is aimed at the aspirers who desire to be or look like a certain character within the film. Providing the market with 3 posters instead of one was a great way to make fans triple the franchises profits. Why would fans purchase one poster when they could purchase 3? On top of all the merchandise. Unlike star wars, the stereotypical fans of twilight are aspirers. They aspire to look like a certain character, or even aspire to have a relationship with a certain character. So to market this group of people, alot of posters and advertisements featuring main characters have been modified to make them look better. Giving aspirers more of an urge to pursue the look they want. A marketing product Twilight has used to attract these aspirers is a perfume they have released: look here, this is a great product to market as all twilight stereotypical fans would buy the product to feel they are obtaining the image they desire.
The whole twilight sega has a similar dark and eerie theme to its marketing products. For example the posters have a similar layout. Using colours to provide an insight towards the narrative. For example look at this poster,
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dMIJ4iX4eAifUi8cfTw7BGe3XyhWDw2UYjGzDgu_B7kwYsl_nljGh55g7RVtU1p4iSQiY9DzW-JmJ-Kaix7AsLAVtGX9mUGhL8DMaBAXahsKL45lcLS5ZTxg-ManIO_Ikc51qpfPZuyG/s1600/twilight+poster_1.jpg
As you can see its similar to the star wars poster, with a dark and eerie setting containing certain colours to entail what may happen within the plot. Also bringing main characters to the forefront to highlight their importance and role within the narrative. This seems to be a common marketing technique within posters. Twilight also has a huge fan base, just searching the word 'twilight' comes up with the relationship between the actors,fan sites,merchandise and news.
Although there isn't as many films as star wars, and hasn't been around as long. Twilight has still made a huge impact racking up a total of $3,352,322,180 since its first release to the latest one in 2012.
Fans have also been known to go to extreme limits within the twilight fandom community. Giving their opinions on the actors personal life affairs or situations to even giving abuse over social networks such as twitter.
A great marketing technique twilight used was releasing 3 different posters for one of their latest movies. This is aimed at the aspirers who desire to be or look like a certain character within the film. Providing the market with 3 posters instead of one was a great way to make fans triple the franchises profits. Why would fans purchase one poster when they could purchase 3? On top of all the merchandise. Unlike star wars, the stereotypical fans of twilight are aspirers. They aspire to look like a certain character, or even aspire to have a relationship with a certain character. So to market this group of people, alot of posters and advertisements featuring main characters have been modified to make them look better. Giving aspirers more of an urge to pursue the look they want. A marketing product Twilight has used to attract these aspirers is a perfume they have released: look here, this is a great product to market as all twilight stereotypical fans would buy the product to feel they are obtaining the image they desire.
.jpg)
Audience Reactions -
Each star wars film to date has received a rating higher than 5/10 on imdb, for example the 2005's Revenge of the sith movie under the star wars sega received a 7.7 out of ten and was rated by thousands of individuals.
Without such a positive response to each or the majority of the films, there wouldnt of been so many sequels and spin offs etc. So there is definitely an impact.
These results were the same for each star wars film, all reviewed and rated highly from thousands of people. Here is a few small critic reviews both positive and negative about the same film.
Audience theory -
Fans all around the world have connected with the Star Wars films, even to the extent of creating a real life religion dedicated to the Jedi.
Fans go to extreme lengths to feel like they are apart of the whole sensation surrounding or within the film. In fact, 2% of Brighton,UK are of the Jedi faith, which has surprisingly an official and serious religion.
Full length remakes and personal re-creations of the movies are spread all across YouTube. Fans become so connected with a film they need more than just the visuals, they have to have collectors items and every piece of merchandise going. To both their personal enjoyment and to support the franchise. If a movie had no fans, non atall. The company would go out of business, its that simple! The whole idea of 'tell a friend' is what makes fans so powerful, when friends converse the main topic is usually their interests or current events, any big time fan will share their love for the film. Almost like a disease, this will spread between friends which is a great marketing technique created by fans probably unintentionally. If it wasn't for fans Hollywood would probably never of made a sequel for any films. Fans give their feedback and support and contribute towards buying merchandise and anything branded with the Star Wars logo. Without fans, star wars wouldn't of been as huge as it is. Fact.
The official star wars websites features over 10 fan websites, all with their own logos and names relating to a certain event/group within each film. The impact and connection the films have had with individuals is so enormous that these fan sites have made it to the official website.
For an example of fandom, here is a link to a fan made high definition star wars full length film
You can see the detail and effort put into this, how highly fans must think of star wars to create their own 40 minute films. Just this one fan made film out of hundreds,even thousands has racked up over 450,000 views and 5,000 positive ratings! This is just a small percentage of the impact Star Wars have made, fans have gone as far as tattoos and other incredible ideas to show their passion for the franchise.
At the end of the day, without its fans, Star Wars wouldn't be the 6th highest grossing movie of all time.
Thursday, 24 October 2013
Friday, 18 October 2013
Unit 26 assignment 3 notes
Audiences are much more powerful than the directors.
Directors can get tunnel vision, they may think their finished film is outstanding.
Knowing a films marketing was successful, you must look at the box office figures.
Pick a film with a fan following
Get as much information on fan made videos,merchandise,interviews with stars,official websites,reviews,fan made websites,sales figures,posters,billboards,trailers,competitions,tie in's with other products (soundtracks with artists,cars etc)
Types of films
- lord of the rings
- star wars
- the hunger games
- twilight
- star treck
- batman
- iron man
- spiderman
Psychographics are the labels we give to members of an audience, a target audience for a film can have more than one of the psychographics headings. My job is to prove how the marketing attracts these headings.
Psychographics are a way of labelling people. We can tell who the target audience of a film is by referring to the age rating.
The genre of the film helps us distinguish the target audience.
Judging by the narrative, you can hazard a guess at the target audience gender. For example, a film relating to cars would be aimed at the male gender, whereas twilight or romantic films may be aimed at women.
Can we label people as a psychographic?
- mainstreamer (likes security, recognisable brands. Afraid of change)
- aspirers (seek status, materialistic, typical younger people)
- succeeders (seek control, strong opinions and ideas, stability)
- explorers (seek discovery,explores new ideas,values difference and adventure. Typically younger, enjoy something with a twist, unique)
- reformers (seeks enlightenment. likes to be challenged, can form own opinion, very aware of social issues)
must be able to say a certain video is aimed at a certain audience and give reasons,proof, explain why it appeals to certain audience. Talk about marketing materials.
For each example of marketing
- what about it targets the audience (age/gender/genre/psychographics)
- Sound,content,stars,text,reviews,m-e-s, cin
I have chosen star wars for my film with a fan following, as there are thousands of fan made videos, trailers, tributes and even full length remakes of the film and fan's own creations.
Directors can get tunnel vision, they may think their finished film is outstanding.
Knowing a films marketing was successful, you must look at the box office figures.
Pick a film with a fan following
Get as much information on fan made videos,merchandise,interviews with stars,official websites,reviews,fan made websites,sales figures,posters,billboards,trailers,competitions,tie in's with other products (soundtracks with artists,cars etc)
Types of films
- lord of the rings
- star wars
- the hunger games
- twilight
- star treck
- batman
- iron man
- spiderman
Psychographics are the labels we give to members of an audience, a target audience for a film can have more than one of the psychographics headings. My job is to prove how the marketing attracts these headings.
Psychographics are a way of labelling people. We can tell who the target audience of a film is by referring to the age rating.
The genre of the film helps us distinguish the target audience.
Judging by the narrative, you can hazard a guess at the target audience gender. For example, a film relating to cars would be aimed at the male gender, whereas twilight or romantic films may be aimed at women.
Can we label people as a psychographic?
- mainstreamer (likes security, recognisable brands. Afraid of change)
- aspirers (seek status, materialistic, typical younger people)
- succeeders (seek control, strong opinions and ideas, stability)
- explorers (seek discovery,explores new ideas,values difference and adventure. Typically younger, enjoy something with a twist, unique)
- reformers (seeks enlightenment. likes to be challenged, can form own opinion, very aware of social issues)
must be able to say a certain video is aimed at a certain audience and give reasons,proof, explain why it appeals to certain audience. Talk about marketing materials.
For each example of marketing
- what about it targets the audience (age/gender/genre/psychographics)
- Sound,content,stars,text,reviews,m-e-s, cin
I have chosen star wars for my film with a fan following, as there are thousands of fan made videos, trailers, tributes and even full length remakes of the film and fan's own creations.
Thursday, 10 October 2013
Autuer presentation adaption.
Here is my additional post for my auteur presentation after hearing the feedback.
Here is another scene relating to Burtons use of sound, watch from 0:45 seconds.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXtAy1-xTwA
As you can see, the music slowly starts to build up, the pace starts to increase the further Batman travels into a dark mysterious setting. A perfect mood is set at 1:03 when she asks 'where are we going?' the intense music dies down into a smaller tune, creating confusion leaving the audience so intrigued in this characters personality. This soundtrack mixes brilliantly with the setting, which is another aspect of burtons uniqueness. Although there is a build up, its much different to the normal/typical soundtrack. The way it is used within this scene intensifies batman's character and the eerie narrative. This is evident as no intense action is taking place within the scene, there is no violent or aggressive scene taking place and you would not expect such a buildup to watch batman drive through a forest. But burton's use of sound makes this far more interesting and puts questions into the audiences mind.
Here is another scene relating to Burtons use of sound, watch from 0:45 seconds.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXtAy1-xTwA
As you can see, the music slowly starts to build up, the pace starts to increase the further Batman travels into a dark mysterious setting. A perfect mood is set at 1:03 when she asks 'where are we going?' the intense music dies down into a smaller tune, creating confusion leaving the audience so intrigued in this characters personality. This soundtrack mixes brilliantly with the setting, which is another aspect of burtons uniqueness. Although there is a build up, its much different to the normal/typical soundtrack. The way it is used within this scene intensifies batman's character and the eerie narrative. This is evident as no intense action is taking place within the scene, there is no violent or aggressive scene taking place and you would not expect such a buildup to watch batman drive through a forest. But burton's use of sound makes this far more interesting and puts questions into the audiences mind.
Tutorial Notes
My part of the script.
Sound.
There are a number of different mircophones that may be used while recording, make sure you choose the correct one for your enviroment! Have a look at these different types of microphone and find the suitable one for you. (Show microphones on screen during each one)
Lavier mic - This microphone is small and clips onto your clothing (collar,shirt etc) This personal microphone allows hands free speech and is commonly used in television,theatre and public speaking. Make sure to place the microphone in a position where the possibility of the mic scratching against clothing is eliminated. As this would be amplified aswell.
Shotgun mic - Shotgun microphones are mostly high directional. They have small areas of sensitivity to the left,right and rear but are far less sensitive to the left and right as other microphones are. Due to the narrowness of sensitivity, these microphones are commonly used on television and film sets, in stadiums, and for field recording of wildlife.
Cardiod mic - This is the most common unidirectional microphone (unidirectional meaning the microphone is sensitive to sounds from one direction)
Sync.
Sync - This is when the sound is in time with the video/action taking place. This must be in time with the video so it makes sense
Non sync - This is sound that doesn't fit the image but still makes sense.
Out of sync - The sound does not fit the image and does not make sense (out of timing)
Sync - This is when the sound is in time with the video/action taking place. This must be in time with the video so it makes sense
Non sync - This is sound that doesn't fit the image but still makes sense.
Out of sync - The sound does not fit the image and does not make sense (out of timing)
Unit 26 assignment 2 notes (negatives of the MPAA)
Negatives of the MPAA.
- The board classes sex scenes/female pleasure as offensive.
- Big names have had to cut scenes short to avoid a rating they don't want.
- Walmart/Blockbuster will not advertise NC17 films, this could mean a loss of millions of dollars
- Its the only system that will not disclose who the members are.
- Studios will not release films if the rating is too high.
- Kimberley Pierce (Boys don't cry) received an NC17, the studio would not release it.
- Matt Stone received no notes or guidance from his film 'Orgasmo' as it was independent, but when he made the South Park movie (under a major studio), he was told what scenes to cut and remove. He received a completely different treatment
- Independent movie's are not treated the same as a big studio film.
- If you don't accept the rating, you struggle to advertise and market the film as it is classed as 'unrated'
- Kevin Smith claims ''if you choose to not accept the rating you cannot market it''
- No feedback is given unless you are part of a big studio.
- The system is set up to serve the studios.
- The big corporations own more than 90 percent of media around the world.
- Jay Landers is an ex rater for the MPAA, he had to sign an agreement to not talk about the company.
- The MPAA censors films, although they are not supposed to.
- They take away the ability for filmmakers to make choices.
- The MPAA have an ideology, they dislike things that make them uncomfortable and don't want others to see it.
- Very biased ratings board
- The MPAA are far more strict on sexual content than violence.
- Jamie Babbit made her film to educate young people, but thinks the MPAA may be homophobic.
- The MPAA can limit the intentions of the director.
- David Ansen claims the raters have more of a problem with homosexual scenes and they usually get rated higher.
- The raters have children over 20 and up to 30, although the board claims all children are aged 5-17
- The board has a scale which has different variations within each rating.
- Jay Landers claims no openly homosexual people were on the rating board.
- European ratings are more strict on violence than sexual scenes, unlike the MPAA.
- In fact, nearly four times as many films were rated NC17 for sex scenes than violence.
- The MPAA go out of their way to defend violence within their films.
- The pentagon censors anything negative within military films.
- The board rates documentaries,although reality should not be rated as it is real life.
- The board claims raters serve for 3-7 years, although one rater has been found to serve 9 years.
- One rater was found to have no children, although the board claims they are all parents.
- The appeals board members are both associated with the church.
- The board does not want to give total freedom to directors.
- The appeals board is full of major cinema owners.
- All the people on the appeal board were men.
- The board classes sex scenes/female pleasure as offensive.
- Big names have had to cut scenes short to avoid a rating they don't want.
- Walmart/Blockbuster will not advertise NC17 films, this could mean a loss of millions of dollars
- Its the only system that will not disclose who the members are.
- Studios will not release films if the rating is too high.
- Kimberley Pierce (Boys don't cry) received an NC17, the studio would not release it.
- Matt Stone received no notes or guidance from his film 'Orgasmo' as it was independent, but when he made the South Park movie (under a major studio), he was told what scenes to cut and remove. He received a completely different treatment
- Independent movie's are not treated the same as a big studio film.
- If you don't accept the rating, you struggle to advertise and market the film as it is classed as 'unrated'
- Kevin Smith claims ''if you choose to not accept the rating you cannot market it''
- No feedback is given unless you are part of a big studio.
- The system is set up to serve the studios.
- The big corporations own more than 90 percent of media around the world.
- Jay Landers is an ex rater for the MPAA, he had to sign an agreement to not talk about the company.
- The MPAA censors films, although they are not supposed to.
- They take away the ability for filmmakers to make choices.
- The MPAA have an ideology, they dislike things that make them uncomfortable and don't want others to see it.
- Very biased ratings board
- The MPAA are far more strict on sexual content than violence.
- Jamie Babbit made her film to educate young people, but thinks the MPAA may be homophobic.
- The MPAA can limit the intentions of the director.
- David Ansen claims the raters have more of a problem with homosexual scenes and they usually get rated higher.
- The raters have children over 20 and up to 30, although the board claims all children are aged 5-17
- The board has a scale which has different variations within each rating.
- Jay Landers claims no openly homosexual people were on the rating board.
- European ratings are more strict on violence than sexual scenes, unlike the MPAA.
- In fact, nearly four times as many films were rated NC17 for sex scenes than violence.
- The MPAA go out of their way to defend violence within their films.
- The pentagon censors anything negative within military films.
- The board rates documentaries,although reality should not be rated as it is real life.
- The board claims raters serve for 3-7 years, although one rater has been found to serve 9 years.
- One rater was found to have no children, although the board claims they are all parents.
- The appeals board members are both associated with the church.
- The board does not want to give total freedom to directors.
- The appeals board is full of major cinema owners.
- All the people on the appeal board were men.
Wednesday, 9 October 2013
Unit 26 Assignment Work
What is the MPAA?
The Motion Picture Association of America is an american trade association that represents the six big hollywood studios. It was founded in 1922 as the motion picture producers and distributers of america (MPPDA) to advance the business interest of members.
The six major studios under the MPAA are -
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures; Paramount Pictures Corporation; Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc; Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation; Universal City Studios LLC; and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
What are the American Film Ratings?
The MPAA administers a motion picture rating system used in the United States to rate the suitability of films themes and content for certain audiences. The system was first introduced in November 1968, and has gone through several changes since. The rating system is completely voluntary, and ratings have no legal standing.
Friday, 4 October 2013
Thursday, 3 October 2013
Presentation script
An auteur study - Tim Burton
I have chosen to explore the use of mise en scene and sound within Tim burtons films.
Mis en scene -
To nominate Tim Burton as an auteur, there are many characteristics to take into consideration. The most common characteristics of his style consist of his gothic and dark look. This is usually portrayed within the makeup and costume of characters used in his films. This is one of the strongest arguments to say Burton is an auteur. The 1989 Batman film backs up this point. In the film, Batman discards the history of batman; the camp 1960's tv series. The in comic jokes and this time creates an intricate dark and aggressive tone within batman. In addition, Tim Burton then set the path for the following batman characters. The dark knight etc. Tim burtons gothic style is highlighted in this clip
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfvKvTlQHuw
Look at batman within the first half of the clip. His dark character is outlined. Pause at 0:29, you can see batmans face is hidden in dark shadows and almost engulfed by the setting. This is a typical burton scene, the dark background and eerie setting creates a perfect habitat for his version of batman.
The genre of the film Batman is an action fantasy, Batman is a social outcast. Living in a cave and being a very lonesome,dark character. This theme is used a lot within burtons films, another film directed by tim burton which includes a dark social outcast is Edward Scissor Hands. The same gothic design is used with the costume and makeup. This sort of character is a stamp of Burtons uniqueness.
I have chosen to explore the use of mise en scene and sound within Tim burtons films.
Mis en scene -
To nominate Tim Burton as an auteur, there are many characteristics to take into consideration. The most common characteristics of his style consist of his gothic and dark look. This is usually portrayed within the makeup and costume of characters used in his films. This is one of the strongest arguments to say Burton is an auteur. The 1989 Batman film backs up this point. In the film, Batman discards the history of batman; the camp 1960's tv series. The in comic jokes and this time creates an intricate dark and aggressive tone within batman. In addition, Tim Burton then set the path for the following batman characters. The dark knight etc. Tim burtons gothic style is highlighted in this clip
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfvKvTlQHuw
Look at batman within the first half of the clip. His dark character is outlined. Pause at 0:29, you can see batmans face is hidden in dark shadows and almost engulfed by the setting. This is a typical burton scene, the dark background and eerie setting creates a perfect habitat for his version of batman.
The genre of the film Batman is an action fantasy, Batman is a social outcast. Living in a cave and being a very lonesome,dark character. This theme is used a lot within burtons films, another film directed by tim burton which includes a dark social outcast is Edward Scissor Hands. The same gothic design is used with the costume and makeup. This sort of character is a stamp of Burtons uniqueness.
For example,here is a scene to show how Tim Burton creates a similar setting within his films. watch this clip from Edward Scissorhands
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Q2G5pIXEb8
As you can see, edward scissorhands is walking through a dark shadowed area confronting a character, just like batman was in the clip above. Just like the batman scene, the setting contains shallow areas of lowkey lighting. Burton uses this in a unique way to create an eerie scene that swallows the character inside of the setting. Adding tension and curiosity for the audience. Another example of tim burton using a social outcast.
My comparison to another film from a different director.
I have chosen to compare 'Batman' the 1966 movie to Tim Burtons edition.
Watch this trailer from the 1966 batman film
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3uhsEaw_-M
Even in the first 20 seconds of the clip. You can see how the costume and setting has differed from Tim Burtons version. Before Tim Burton directed the 1989 version, batman was looked at as a comical character. This is evident within the trailer. His costume is far less interesting and eye catching, his body language alongside the setting makes batman seem even more comical. In my opinion this is proof Tim Burton is an autuer. He has turned a comical spoof like character into a character which creates fear and a high level of interest. Tim Burton had changed Batman in an artistic way, for example the first half of the clip which shows dialogue between batman and robin. The scene has no lowkey lighting, it has high key lighting and no dark,eerie enviroment. This is far less interesting then being intrigued by a Tim Burton's adaptation.
Sound -
Back to the 1989 batman film, Tim Burton without a doubt has a distinct and unique way of using sound. For example, look at this clip (Play from 1:22)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63iuB-cSY7Q
As the joker shoots his boss, carnival/circus music starts to play. This is a contrapuntal soundtrack which identifys Burton's uniqueness. You would think scary/dramatic music would be playing but Tim Burton ignores this. This shows the audience the joker is amused and enjoying murdering his boss. This creates fear and suspense in a unique way. This clip shows Burtons twist on the film. Using contrapuntal sound in this scene creates a sense of shock for the audience as the joker finds it amusing.
If you watch this scene from the Dark Knight (not directed by tim burton)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-rkpgchJOA
You can see that this time, a contrapuntal soundtrack is not evident. Although there is a soundtrack, but it fits the image, there is dramatic music creating a build up. Unlike Burton, this soundtrack is expected and typical for the scene. Where as Tim Burton creates an unexpected atmosphere within the scene in an artistic way. Instead of using what would be expected, this makes the audience more intrigued and interested in the character (s)
I would say Tim Burton without a doubt could be classed as an auteur, as he uses intricate and unexpected ideas to create fear and tension within the audience.
My comparison to another film from a different director.
I have chosen to compare 'Batman' the 1966 movie to Tim Burtons edition.
Watch this trailer from the 1966 batman film
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3uhsEaw_-M
Even in the first 20 seconds of the clip. You can see how the costume and setting has differed from Tim Burtons version. Before Tim Burton directed the 1989 version, batman was looked at as a comical character. This is evident within the trailer. His costume is far less interesting and eye catching, his body language alongside the setting makes batman seem even more comical. In my opinion this is proof Tim Burton is an autuer. He has turned a comical spoof like character into a character which creates fear and a high level of interest. Tim Burton had changed Batman in an artistic way, for example the first half of the clip which shows dialogue between batman and robin. The scene has no lowkey lighting, it has high key lighting and no dark,eerie enviroment. This is far less interesting then being intrigued by a Tim Burton's adaptation.
Sound -
Back to the 1989 batman film, Tim Burton without a doubt has a distinct and unique way of using sound. For example, look at this clip (Play from 1:22)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63iuB-cSY7Q
As the joker shoots his boss, carnival/circus music starts to play. This is a contrapuntal soundtrack which identifys Burton's uniqueness. You would think scary/dramatic music would be playing but Tim Burton ignores this. This shows the audience the joker is amused and enjoying murdering his boss. This creates fear and suspense in a unique way. This clip shows Burtons twist on the film. Using contrapuntal sound in this scene creates a sense of shock for the audience as the joker finds it amusing.
If you watch this scene from the Dark Knight (not directed by tim burton)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-rkpgchJOA
You can see that this time, a contrapuntal soundtrack is not evident. Although there is a soundtrack, but it fits the image, there is dramatic music creating a build up. Unlike Burton, this soundtrack is expected and typical for the scene. Where as Tim Burton creates an unexpected atmosphere within the scene in an artistic way. Instead of using what would be expected, this makes the audience more intrigued and interested in the character (s)
I would say Tim Burton without a doubt could be classed as an auteur, as he uses intricate and unexpected ideas to create fear and tension within the audience.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)