How and why did I choose the location in my opening sequence?

My opening sequence is set in a remote, forestry area/grasslands .

Above is a google maps image from birds eye view of my setting.

This location is a quiet area of land, which is hidden with many trees and bushes. The shadow created by these construct a natural shade and dark light. 

An example of the shadows created by the trees and bushes.

This shows a true juxtaposition between the vibrant hectic city and where the character is now, a dark and lonely place.

I chose this landscape due to the fact that it creates a dark ambiance and portrays a feeling that the main character is lonely and more importantly very vulnerable, which is also reveled on the characters facial expressions.

This is an example of the characters uncertainty in the opening sequence.

Opening Sequence Equipment List

I will use a Nikon D5100 for the most part of the filming and a Flip camera for the shots from underwater using a waterproof case.

 This is the Flip Camera and case I will use for the under waters clips.

The Nikon D5100 Camera I will used in filming.

I was originally going to use a tripod for my filming, however as I wanted to create a professional looking piece I a going use a Kessler Crane because it will give very smooth, professional looking image throughout the filming. The majority of my opening sequence involves the character walking away or towards the camera so the Kessler Crane will suit this type of filming as it can follow the character smoothly.

This is the crane I will be using in the filming.

I will not be using any lighting for my opening sequence as the shadows created by the trees will give a spine chilling atmosphere perfectly suited to a film of a thriller genre. I have already taken photos from the filming location and believe using extra lighting would harm the dark feel created by the combination of the natural light and the dark shadows created.

This is a shot showing the filming location taken from my iPhone.

To edit my clips after filming I will use the editing software 'Final Cut Pro'. When used correctly the software can help create an incredibly professional and compelling piece of film.

American Psycho Opening Analysis.

There is a tracking shot sets up the scene, as there is slow non-diegetic music playing and the pace of the music is the same pace as the camera, which adds a sense of continuity. There is a voice over as the main character, Patrick Bateman, is talking throughout the scene; this allows viewers to understand his character and personality.

There is a long shot to establish the environment where the scene is placed; this allows the audience to see his home which helps establish him as a character and shows his wealth, there is a close up of his bed which shows the bed is only slept on one side which clearly indicates he is not in a relationship and lives alone. The room is only white and is absent of dark colour.

There is a long shot that introduces Patrick Bateman into the scene, he is dressed only in his boxers to reveal his muscular and toned body this shows his healthy lifestyle and matches the voice over as he is narrating his morning routine.

There is an over the shoulder shot whilst he is urinating, which shows him looking at his reflection in a frame 'Les Miserables' posters showing how he takes pride in himself, and is slightly vain. Also shows he is cultured in musical theatre.

After there is a montage presenting his daily routine, this emphasises his care in himself, the fact that is repeated means that it is an important part of his day and life.

The final shot shows Patrick Bateman peeling off his “herb mint facial masque”; this is presented to us in a close up, allowing viewers only to see his face, and his perfect skin. The facemask could represent the mask he wears for his different personalities.

Adult males would like to watch this as it delivers the as it is full of thrill and suspense, which fits the generic ideologies of horror/ thriller, which men often like. Children and Women would not necessarily enjoy this film, as it is contains scenes of an adult nature and violence.

Preliminary Task - The Incident.

This is my preliminary task. This is the first media product I have produced this academic year.

Enjoy.

Place Beyond The Pines Opening Sequence:

“Place Beyond the Pines”, a crime drama, which was created in 2012, it tells the story of a talented motorcycle rider who resolves to bank robbing to provide for his newborn child. The opening sequence of this particular film is very interesting and actually tells the audience a lot about the main protagonist, Luke. This is done by using; different filming techniques, sound, costume, location and prop use. 

The scene starts with the diagetic sound of fair ground music; this sound is then accompanied by the sound of deep breathing and a flick knife. We see ‘Luke’ pacing around shirtless in his trailer, flicking his knife, which suggests that the character is frustrated or that he is trying to concentrate on the task ahead he has a number of tattoos. The lighting in the trailer is fairly dim. This choice of lighting not only suggests that the character is a dark character, but also establishes the films genre as maybe a thriller or a dark drama. 

Then there is a knocking at the door, alerting Luke that it is his time to perform. He than stabs the knife into the wall, and grabs his red leather jacket, the colour red suggests danger, and the fact that his clothes are torn shows he is edgy and has been in situations that have ripped his clothes. 

A tracking shot is then used to follow Luke from his trailer, through the Fair ground, to his stage. The Fair ground is full of neon lights and people. The opening sequence concludes with ‘Handsome Luke’ performing a death-defying trick on a motorbike.

 The opening scene is able to grab the audience attention, because they would want to find out more about the character of Luke, for example his background or where he learnt to be such a talented motorcycle rider. There is very little dialogue in this sequence apart from the man who knocks on his trailer door. The titles, presenting the names of the characters featured in the film, during the opening sequence. The first name is in narrow font and the second name is in bold, this gives an 'indie' feel to the film.

Preliminary Task 'The Incident' Story Board

This is the story board I used when filming my preliminary task. I found that the use of a story board helps the overall filming run smoothly and gives basic structure to how the filming takes place. I liked using a story board as I knew what I was doing before I even picked up a camera to film.

As this was my first media production I wasn't entirely sure on how to construct a story board and what to include in it, but after a few attempts I believe that I created one which really gave assistance on the day of filming.