Clare Martin AS Media Coursework

Media Evaluation

2009-05-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

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Comparison to Donnie Brasc

2009-04-21T07:27:00.000-07:00

+ The cartoon tiger at the opening of the text introducing the production company. The tiger becomes real and jumps through the ring in the centre of the screen, upon roaring.
+ The use of white font on a black background is also used in Donnie Brasco in order to establish the genre for the rest of the narrative.
+ Donnie Brasco also used location shots in order to reinforce the setting of the text. Thus, helping to engage and guide the audience through the narrative.
Whereas Donnie Brasco used more shots of CU’s, MS’s and ECU’s. This was apparent in the shot after the title sequence where an ECU is used to show the characters eye. Thus, helping to lead into the upcoming scene, whilst establishing that he will become a crucial character within the text.
Whereas, Donnie Brasco used slow pace editing through the majority of the opening sequence in order to dominate the shots to obtain more ‘thrillerness’ rather than action.

Teacher evaluation

2009-04-21T05:03:00.000-07:00

GRADE A

+ Demonstrates excellence across most technical aspects
+ The titles are highly effective developing generic/ narrative features through semiotics and colour use.
+ The overall feel of the piece (editing/sound in particular) is engaging fitting the chosen sub-genre.

- the transition between the titles and opening scene is inflective
- titles could have continued to include "producer"/ "director"/ a cross dissolve into an establishing shot would have
better fit the generic codes and conventions.
- some of the animation could have been smoothed out to add a greater degree of polish to the finished artifact.

From the teacher comments in which I received, I feel completely satisfied with the response in which we got. The target for our project was to create an action thriller witholding the generic codes and conventions of that particular sub-genre. From the teacher and group feedback I feel that we have achieved a text that meets the codes and conventions of an action-thriller. In order to further develop our project I feel that the main objective would be to extend the length of our title sequence. Apart from this I feeel l that no major changes would need to be made to extend the quality of our project.

Group evaluation

2009-04-21T04:48:00.000-07:00

In order for our text to be completely analysed, we used a variation of evaulation technqiues. One method in which we used was a group evaluation. This involved watching the text and four groups making brief comments about the positive and negatives of our extract. This feedback contributed to more decisions being made, for example potential improvements.

The feedback included:
- positive= music over titles was really effective and engaging made audience automatically know the henre of the extract.
- positive= animation was relative to genre.
- Improvement= sound over footage could have been more engaging.
- Opening with animatic seemed very professional.
- gun sound very effective
- shot at end could have been more steady.
- shot with cigarette could have been more centralised- came off screen.
- CGI could of had better colours to represent the genre (red, gold, etc)
- shots were unsteady in some
- Overall title sequence was very good, especially "Money" title.
- Very professional
- Costume and casting very good - professional, again
- Title sequence could have lasted longer e.g. director.

From the group feedback in which I recieved, I feel that the overall response was fairly good. This was due to the fact that the positive points outwayed the negatives. Thus, meaning that we successfully gave our audience members the relevant text in which we originally set out to deliver. Many people commented that the overall look of the extract was very "professional". This was reinforced through the CGI sequence in which we implemented at the beginning of the text. By doing this, it gave us an advantage because it kept the audience members engaged and wanting more. Thus, meaning that if we were going to do this project again then we would lengthen the title sequence to satisfy the needs of our target audience.

Finished product

2009-04-21T03:09:00.001-07:00

Evaluation questions- first thoughts

2009-04-07T14:00:00.000-07:00

1. In what ways does your media product use, develop or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?
Our media product has changed dramatically since the first filming and editing stages. This has been due to the realisation that the codes and coventions of the sub-genre for our text are vitally important for creating the best extract possible. Our CGI footage has become more unique and thus meaning that it could challenge actual media products with similar forms of CGI. The ability to use a variation of shots has improved and we now have learnt to tell a story through the use of mise en scene, sound, camera and editing instead of relying soley on the ability of our actors and the actions in which they present. Overall, the media product has evolved to meet with a high expectation in which we originally challenged upon brainstorming what we were going to do.

2. How does your media product represent particular social groups?

Throughout our thriller text we tried to implement certain social groups to make the narrative of the extract relatable. Originally, we used the difference of class between both characters. However we found that the difference between a James Bond style detective and an English teenager was too abstract for the ideology in which we were trying to create. Therefore we decided to use a James Bond style detective and a formal business man. In order to show the formality of both characters, smart dressed was required.

3.What kind of media institution might distribute your media product and why?

If this extract were to be extended then it could be made into a Hollywood film, this is because the narrative of the sequence is unfinished. Thus meaning that opportunities are available to alter the narrative and make it longer. This extract could be produced by a major Hollywood studio this is due to the similarities in which it shares with other successful action-thrillers, for example Casino Royale and Mission Impossible. Thus, meaning that audience members will accept the extract to see if it differs or is an improvement from other action-thrillers.

4. Who would be the audience for your media product?

As our thriller in-keeps with the codes and conventions of an action thriller it means that the target audience for our product is more widely spread. This is good for generating a high profit and gaining an established film name. Therefore, the target audience for our thriller would be 12+.

5. How did you attract/address your audience?

An engaging opening was delivered to audience members. The title sequence was designed using the Apple MAC. Thus, meaning that as well as footage we also gained at least a one minute sequence that kept the audience intuned with the tone and setting of the text. The non-digetic music was altered many times until it fit most appropriate with the extract. The pace was realistic and yet effective for the action we were trying to portray. The environmnent/ location was suitable for reinforcing the idea of trying to 'find a criminal' (travelling= protagonist travelling with the audience).

6. What have you learnt about technologies from the process of constructing the product?
From the process of creating and filming this two minute extract I have learnt a variation of skills that have contributed to my development in media.
- I know how to use the camera efficiently, using all of the equipment for example tripod.
- I can conduct a variation of shots to the best of my ability, for example still shot, CU, MS, LS, ELS, shot reverse shot
- I am more aware of the programs on the Apple MAC. However I would like to improve my knowledge on programs like Premier Pro so I can do it very effectively.

7. Looking back to your preliminary task, what do you feel that you have learnt in the progression from it to the full product?

From the preliminary task in which I originally conducted I feel that I have progressed to a new level of understanding. Not only do I feel more confident using certain technologies, for example the camera but I have also learnt a variation of other things. I have a clearer understanding about how the four key concepts make up the filming and not just the narrative. I have also learnt that it is not the actors that make up the text it is the filming.

Comparing thriller genres

2009-03-31T03:58:00.000-07:00

In class, we watched three different thriller openings so that we could examine the codes and conventions of each text. This enabled us to compare it to our text to distinguish if we were including the right things. Furthermore, it gave our group an inspiration to try and improve and enhance the potential success of our opening.

1. Sixth sense
- Music leads sequence= makes it very slow
- effective sound = getting louder as titles progress
- slow pace= build up= story telling through the use of music
- black and white throughout- reinforcing thriller genre darkness)
- title of film= change in sound
- opening production labels= no sound= introduction to genre is ambiguous
- light= connotations= dark verses light= good verses bad= binary opposite
- slow pace shoot
- cut to show tone changing in the text
- woman getting wine, going into the dark cellar= subvert male

2. The Village
- Production= light= tea bag look= musky
- eery non-diagetic music
- trees= village= environment= surroundings= realistic
- credits= black and white- using nature to set tone
- dominated by black = darkness (thriller)
- sounds like large footsteps= build up
- nice mise en scene= environment= green= subvert
- POV (links to title= union= village) shot from village perspective of man grieving
- cut of falling angel= appears as if a statue is speaking
- shaky camera= emotions= feelings

3. Lady in the water
- black and white
- story feeling= juvenile= cartoons
- break down= complicated story
- editing= moving cartoon clips
- message of narrative told in cartoon
- CU of male= important character
- sound= realism= people taking at once
- characters in background= insignificant

+ music always lasts longer in thriller
= use diagetic sound
+ make own sound effects = layer things up
+ hold shots
+ holding our shots= matts face= train = newspaper

Self evaluation

2009-03-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

From the teacher feedback in which I recieved I was very pleased with the results we got from our rough cut. The positive areas of our text outwayed the things in which we needed to improve on. This was good because it meant that as a group we could focus all our attention to the certain areas of improvement.

Personally, I felt that the improvements and suggestions we were given meant that we knew exactly the things that needed changing. In order to improve the quality of our product, I have decided to research more sound effects to determine what will best fit within our text. Through doing this I believe it will strengthen the text and help best meet with the generic codes and conventions of an action/thriller genre.

In order to make the extract consistent and consise we have decided to cut our actor Will from the text. I am hoping that it will increase the 'thriller'ness of the text because Matt is never in contact with the suspect/criminal. Therefore making the audience more engaged and kept waiting for something to occur.

The editing of the action/thriller text will need to be closely looked at. We decided that the shot from Matt dropping the cigarette after Will's scenes (and soon to be title sequence once certain shots are removed) was too quick. This was due to the use of cross dissolve as part of the transition that separated the two shots. Consequently, meaning that the audience missed the majority of the shot because of the rapidness of it. Therefore we will either use a different transition/re-arrange the shots/ re-order the sequence.

As part of my self progression I am pleased with the time and effort in which I have contributed. I have thought of ideas consistently to enable the editing, narrative and entire sequence to progress. I can also understand the improvements in which have been given and will therefore make a consious effort to re-evaluate the text to ensure it can perform its best to meet the generic codes and conventions of a thriller genre.

Rough cut, Teacher practical feedback

2009-03-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

Mark= 42 Grade= C

FEEDBACK:
- Camera work is controlled and steady throughout
- Framing of shots is mostly well concieved with elements included/ excluded as appropriate
- Some variety of shot distances is evident- the number is limited due to sturtcure/ content of the extract
- Most of the material is appropriate to the task set however there is too much leaving the extract significantly over the 2 minute time limit
- Mise- en- scene has been clearly thought out with effective use of iconic/ symbolic signifiers, choice of location, dress and props
- Editing is competent- there is considerable socpe for improvement here which will also improve pace and continuity
- Shot transitions are mostly ok but they need work- again this is directly connected to the sequencing and continuity of the piece
- Non-digetic sound has been used generally well but the opening needs some re-thinking. Also non-digetic sound could be far better utilised. This is one key aspect that limits the project
- The title sequence is highly effective but comes to a somewhat clumsy and abrupt end. Again see editing.

Targets for improvements

- You must revisit your use of sound- the non-digetic sound needs to be higher in the mix during the latter stages and more needs to be made of sound effects to add to the mood of the sequence as a whole.
- You also need to reconsider the opening- the noise/ chatter does not achieve the intended effect and gets the title sequence off to a rocky start.
- Editing needs considerable work - the transition from title sequence to live action needs to be slower and smoother.
- Also, you need to consider losing a whole section. What's more you need to pace your clips with a little more finesse and deliberateness.
- Finally, you need to hold some key shots for longer. This will add to the 'thriller'ness of your piece.

Filming session 10/02/09

2009-03-12T04:40:00.000-07:00

During our last filming session we used only one actor "Matt" as we had previously shot our other actors scenes. Whilst filming Matt's shots we knew exactly what needed to be filmed. Instead of trying to do as much as possible in the time we had, we decided to re-film the shots that we needed to ensure that they looked as accurate as possible. We filmed on and off the train, due to the fact that we filmed at a later time during the day it meant that we gained more extras for a piece. This was good for making the extract appear more realistic as in the opening of this type of text it would be unusual to see only just one actor. The overall running of the filming session went smoothly and we occured no probelms throughout.

Progression

2009-03-08T08:58:00.000-07:00

Since our last filming session we have edited our title sequence and are planning one last filming session. In the next filming session we will only take shots of one of one of our actors -Matt- this is due to the blurriness of our last shots. Thus, meaning that all of the previous shots taken are satisfactory despite the picture quality. This is good for us as it means that we know exactly how each shot should look.

We have also been looking at songs in which we could use that would best fit with our particular genre (action-thriller). This is because the last song in which we chose did not fit well with our narrative. Since then we have been conducting wider research.

Filming session 26/02

2009-02-26T11:32:00.000-08:00

This afternoon, we filmed will -one of our actors- inside our location choice. Instead of shooting as many different scenes as we could, we decided to specialise in certain areas of the shot.
For example: shooting will from a POV shot instead of just a MS or LS

We used our creativity and initiative to try and evolve our narrative so that it made more sense.

After brainstorming I have thought of new ideas that I will present to the group tommorw:
- Will sending an email to a fellow baddie
= to make the connection that Will has bad intentions in the narrative of the text (not good)
- Using a security machine to show that Will is stealing the money (connection to Matt's newspaper)
- Using the idea of a "blackout" to show that Will is in "hiding" for doing something he shouldn't.

Individual progression

2009-02-24T04:09:00.000-08:00

I believe that i have made significant progression since the start of my AS media coursework. From a basic idea summarizing what genre, sub-genre and narrative we wanted to a thorough understanding of the text and the filming process. I have developed my skills by using the camera during filming. Thus, meaning I can take a variety of shots to develop the narrative of the text.

I am also building the confidence to use the complex Apple software in order to edit our filming. This is important for me to develop this skill as I feel it is necessary in order to depict how I want certain shots to look.

Changes from second feedback

2009-02-13T06:32:00.001-08:00

As a group we felt that some of the shots in which we filmed were slighly blurry, this was due to the fact that one of the cameras was not focused enough. Nevertheless the shots that were taken looked really good, so this means that in the next filming session we know exactly what we need to achieve.

Other changes include:

TRAIN:
1. Shot of Matt getting on the train
2. Shot of Matt sitting down
3. Ipod shot- CU, MS
4. Newspaper shot- MS, CU
5. Matt getting off the train- MS, LS

Will's shots
1st shot= Balcony shot - Slow tilt LS
2nd shot= show suitcases
3rd shot= Open suitcases= reveal money- LS, CU, MS
4th shot= Reading paper on balcony- MS, CU = Reinforces narrative.

Instead of showing all of Matt's shots then all of Will's shots we decided to show a dual representation. This means that the audience will be able to engage with both characters throughout, instead of one at a time.
E.G.
1. Doors closed by the balcony - MS, LS
2. Hand on train - CU
3. CU of Will looking out of balcony
4. POV shot from Will looking onto skyline
5. Matt steps out of train station.

Additional changes:
+ Re film shot 3 = footsteps and walking
+ Music= use music that runs pararrell against the CGI effect
+ Establishing shots= characters enter into the shot
+ Less walking scenes
+ More of Matt on the train
+ Use cross dissolve between shots

Name of text

2009-02-05T06:04:00.000-08:00

We have decided to call our thriller extract "Money" this is due to the fact that the subject matter is so common that audience members can relate to it.
This enables audience members to raise issues and questions whilst watching the text. For example:
- the importance of money in society
- how desperate people get over having lots of money
- the fight and or disruption it can cause between individuals.

We are hoping that audience members react to our text in a positive way. Thus, reinforcing the decision to make the text as realistic as possible.

Introduction of new props

2009-02-05T04:49:00.000-08:00

IPOD-
The ipod was used in a scene on the train and also throughout the shots after. This was to keep the continuity the same during each shot. During the brainstorming process ideas were built and it was decided that the ipod would be used as a "gadget" for the main protagonist "Matt". The screen would then be edited to show something other than songs, instead it would show where the "villain" is positioned within the area.

Newspaper-
The newspaper was a key part within the shot as it helped show the flow of the scene. The newspaper implemented the headline and story of the "villain" which consequently formed the gadget to be used. The newspaper was specially designed on the computer so that it looked realistic and acccurate.

Second Filming

2009-02-05T04:38:00.001-08:00

Using the feedback that we recieved from our first filming session we were able to make various improvements and adjustments. As a group we created a new storyboard and shot list. This was good for introducing new ideas and showing where they would be implemented during each shot.

Instead of doing most of our predominant filming around one particular area -train station- we decided to expand our location choices. We filmed the main protagonist-Matt- getting on and off the train. Instead of just using one train station we travelled to another station to make the scenes flow and increase the realism of the story.

Another big change that we made was what our actor, Matt would do during each shot. We decided that:

- Matt would get on the train
- look at the newspaper {see the headline and story of -Will- villian}
- Get the ipod out of his jacket and search for the villian to detect where he is 'hiding out'.
- After this Matt gets off the train and searches for Will

Will's shots also got changed, instead of doing the filming outside we decided to film him inside as part of him "hiding out". Due to the apartment we were filming in, it meant we had the full benefit of using the balacony located outside the bedroom. This was used to show Will standing outside on the balacony and getting shot by Matt.

Evaluation of filming process: first shooting

2009-01-21T04:49:00.001-08:00

After shooting for the first time we gathered many shots even if we were not going to use them we decided it was better to have more than not enough. We used equipment such as camera, tripod and storyboard. This assisted us during the entire process of shooting. We began filming by the train station and took predominately long shots of one of the main characters. Me and Lewis also took a variation of photographs to use in the opening credits that would be covered and edited by the use of CGI. As the director it was important that i informed each actor where they needed to be looking and what they needed to be doing. We did not use any dialouge as we wanted to create an emphasis on the shots, angles, and non-digetic music.

After presenting our various shots to our teacher, it became apparent that the majority of the shots we had would not be usable. This was due to the shots that were taken, for example:
- the actors looking at the camera throughout shots
- the location choice quite poor in some aspects
- the direction
- the lack in variation of camera angles

Other feedback:
- too many shots
- doesn't have to be an ending to the two minute extract
- improve continuity

When we next film all of our shots we will make a purpose to change the angles to keep the audience engaged. We will also set a time during the day that will be suitable, for example light weather no rain/ darkness.
We will make directions or storyboard notes so that we can go and film straightaway and guide are actors so they know exactly what they have to achieve in each scene.

Evaluation of animatic

2009-01-08T07:11:00.000-08:00

Feedback from the teacher

Whilst trying to sort and prepare for our presentation it became apparent that we had difficulties trying to intergrate the music into the animatic. After many attempts of inserting music and sounds into our animatic, we decided that we would play music from itunes whilst the animatic was playing.

We used a combination of drawings, photographs and CGI in order to show the narrative of our animatic. Sound and special effects have been used so that we get a better idea of how our final extract will appear. It also enabled us to distinguish problems in the extract, this helped us make various improvements.

During the presentation we used a combination of moving and still images to help show our audience members- teenagers- what they should expect to see in our actual thriller extract.

As part of conducting our presentation we had to form 100 questionnaires and get feedback and opinions from this.
Our feedback included:

-An action thriller
-Suspense
-A male lead
-The plot to be revealed
-A plot twist
-Fast paced music
-Special effects
-Fit men

For our opening two minutes of a thriller film we have collectively decided to create a CGI style credits sequence involving patterns and colours with titles appearing in a similar style to the sort of opening credits seen in films such as James Bond and Seven.

Brainstorm of Ideas

2008-11-30T09:44:00.000-08:00

Thrillers
- Action
- Horror
- Spy
- Supernatural
- Sci-fi

Our group has decided to use Action - thriller.
Camera
- LS, CU, ELS, ECU
- Tracking in chases
- Panning around action
- Over the shoulder
- Fly on the wall
- POV

Editing
- Jump cuts
- Fast pace

Sound
- Fast pace music
- non-digetic sound = rock music

Mise en scene
- high technology
- cheesy cliche
- gadgets
- car chases
- guns

Audience Research

2008-11-25T11:50:00.000-08:00

'15' – Suitable only for 15 years and over

No-one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video or DVD.

Theme
No theme is prohibited, provided the treatment is appropriate to 15 year olds.

Language
There may be frequent use of strong language But the strongest terms will be acceptable only where justified by the context. Continued aggressive use of the strongest language is unlikely to be acceptable.

Nudity
Nudity may be allowed in a sexual context but without strong detail. There are no constraints on nudity in a non-sexual or educational context.

Sex
Sexual activity may be portrayed but without strong detail. There may be strong verbal references to sexual behaviour.

Violence
Violence may be strong but may not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury. Scenes of sexual violence must be discreet and brief.

Imitable techniques
Dangerous techniques (eg combat, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on imitable detail. Easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised.

Horror
Strong threat and menace are permitted. The strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable.

Drugs
Drug taking may be shown but the film as a whole must not promote or encourage drug misuse.

'18' – Suitable only for adults

No-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video.

In line with the consistent findings of the BBFC's public consultations, at '18' the BBFC's guideline concerns will not normally override the wish that adults should be free to chose their own entertainment, within the law. Exceptions are most likely in the following areas:

where material or treatment appears to the Board to risk harm to individuals or, through their behaviour, to society – e.g. any detailed portrayal of violent or dangerous acts, or of illegal drug use, which is likely to promote the activity. The Board may also intervene with portrayals of sexual violence which might, e.g. eroticise or endorse sexual assault.
the more explicit images of sexual activity – unless they can be exceptionally justified by context and the work is not a 'sex work' as defined below.

I found this information from the website: www.bbfc.co.uk

After considering all the different certificates through my audience research I believe that our horror extract would appeal to people over the age of 15 years old. However the target audience for our piece will range from 15 to 35 year olds.

Actual Continuity Task

2008-11-25T11:24:00.000-08:00

We were given brief guidelines to follow in order to complete the task, the main objective was to film a person entering a room having a conversation with person B and exiting, I believe that we successfully achieved this. We completed a storyboard in order to show how each shot would flow to the next, Lewis drew the shots, I wrote the notes and Lawrence scripted. When we began shooting we decided not to use the original script as it did not fit in with the guidelines that were set so we introduced a new script in order to keep the narrative consistent throughout. We learnt from our practise continuity task that our extract would look professional if we used actors. Therefore we decided to use an actress called Maizie in the task to make the whole thing seem more realistic however we decided to also use Lewis, who was a member of the group. This allowed me to use the camera- which is something that I hadn’t professionally undertaken before- I felt it was useful because it helped me understand how to differenciate the angles and distances used in each shot. Although the camera was not as effective as it could have been I feel that I gained a lot of technical knowledge. I learnt not to break the 180 degree rule, which was something that we repeatedly broke in our practise task. If I were to do this again, I would use a more suitable location in order to avoid the background noise. I would also make the camera closer to the actors by either moving it forward or zooming in. This is because some of the dialogue was not as clear as it could have been. Despite this I believe that the text created was successful and followed the guidelines originally set.

Animatic practise

2008-11-25T10:56:00.000-08:00

We were placed into groups (Me, Lewis and Lawrence) and had to come up with an ‘Animatic’ for a thriller extract. We began working in rough as to how each shot would look and what would happen in each scene. We did this so that the audience could see which direction we were heading with the narrative of the story. After this we did a storyboard to show the flow of events in the text, Lewis drew the various shots that were needed for the animatic and I wrote down notes for the length of each shot, how each shot would be made using sound and editing and what effects could be added to it. After creating the storyboard we were given a digital camera so that we could place the images directly on the computer for editing and sound purposes. Each shot was carefully designed to meet the specifications that we had previously listed in the storyboard. Lewis and I then placed the shots together and tested different sounds to increase the effectiveness of it. I believe that our animatic was not particularly great, but we learnt a lot of things in preparation for our actual filming. We learnt that it vital to design each shot specifically to the storyboard so it is clear what the narrative is supposed to suggest to the audience. This task also enabled us to establish our strongest and weakest abilities when working in a group to deliver the most effective piece.

Practise Continuity Task

2008-11-21T08:06:00.000-08:00

Just before October half term, me, Lewis and Jamie created our first continuity piece. Overall the whole thing went well, our work was satisfactory and it gave us an idea of what we should expect when filming our real piece.
We felt that in the real thing it would be a better representation of the narrative if we used actors and actresses instead of ourselves. I believe it would allow us to concentrate on other areas of the task instead of just the acting.
The task was predominately about discovering how to do 'shot reverse shot' without breaking the 180 degree rule. Unfortunately we did break the rule but when we discovered were we went wrong the mistake was clear to see. The editing was fairly consistent mainly demoninated by straight cuts and shot reverse shots. No sound was included in the sequence as we didn't feel it was necessary for the narrative and we run out of time. The task was filmed down a technology corridor and a classroom within my school. It was good using such an open space although we didn't include many props within it.

All Thriller research

2008-11-05T03:59:00.000-08:00

A thriller is a particular genre that is used excessively in the filming industry it is often apart of a sub-genre, for example an action-thriller film like ‘Casino Royale’.

Some examples of a sub-genre:
• Action thriller - In which the work often features a race against the clock, contains lots of violence, and an obvious antagonist. These films usually contain large amounts of guns, explosions, and large elaborate set pieces for the action to take place. These films often have elements of mystery films and crime films but these elements take a backseat to action. Notable examples are the James Bond films, The Transporter, and the Jason Bourne novels and films.
• Conspiracy thriller - In which the hero/heroine confronts a large, powerful group of enemies whose true extent only he/she recognizes. The Chancellor Manuscript and The Aquitane Progression by Robert Ludlum fall into this category, as do films such as Three Days of the Condor and JFK.
• Crime thriller - This particular genre is a hybrid type of both crime films and thrillers that offers a suspenseful account of a successful or failed crime or crimes. These films often focus on the criminal(s) rather than a policeman. Crime thrillers usually emphasize action over psychological aspects. Central topics of these films include murders, robberies, chases, shootouts, and double-crosses are central ingredients. Some examples include The Killing, Seven, The Godfather, Reservoir Dogs, Inside Man, and The Asphalt Jungle.
• Disaster thriller - In which the main conflict is due to some sort of natural or artificial disaster, such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanoes, etc., or nuclear disasters as an artificial disaster. Examples include Stormy Weather by Carl Hiaasen, Tremor by Winston Graham, and the 1974 film Earthquake.
• Drama thriller - In which the story consists of the elements of a thriller and drama film. These films are usually slower paced and involves a great deal of character development along with plot twists. Examples include The Illusionist, The Interpreter and The Prestige. (www.wikipedia.org)
“Thrillers are characterized by fast pacing, frequent action, and resourceful heroes who must thwart the plans of more-powerful and better-equipped villains. Literary devices such as suspense, red herrings and cliffhangers are used extensively”. (I found this information from www.wikipedia.org)
Thriller films promote intense excitement, suspense, a high level of anticipation, ultra-heightened expectation, uncertainty, anxiety, and nerve-wracking tension. Thriller and suspense films are virtually synonymous and interchangeable categorizations, with similar characteristics and features. (http://www.filmsite.org/thrillerfilms.html)
Thriller films are often set out in a stereotypical fashion, to allow audience members to relate to the event that is occurring within each scene. A thriller film will always end in a climax, often in the form of a cliff-hanger.
Sir Alfred Joseph Hitchcock, KBE (13 August 1899 – 29 April 1980)[1] was an iconic and influential British filmmaker and producer, who pioneered many techniques in the suspense and psychological thriller genres.

Conclusion: What should you expect in a thriller film?

2008-11-05T01:47:00.000-08:00

From the research and analysis that I have conducted I feel I am able to clearly distinguish how a thriller film is created. The directors will always intentionally create a thriller film that contains aspects to allow the audience members to relate to it. Nevertheless a thriller film is often part of a generic hybrid where sub-genres are used to construct the narrative and plot of a film. In a typical horror- thriller film I would expect to see gloomy and dismal music that runs parrarell to the events happening on screen. Depending on the type of thriller it will change the diversity of the film, for example in Casino Royale a soundtrack was added to help promote the film. However because it was an action-thriller the music worked well with the Bond narrative that followed after. Secondly I would expect the editing to be either quick and jumpy or slow and lengthy to either build the tension or create suspense as to what will happen next. Thirdly I would expect three main colours to dominate the thriller genre, these consisting of black, white, and red that would connote danger and venture. Lastly I would expect particular scenes to use close ups so that the audience are kept waiting for the action. It also helps make the thrilling movements more intense than they really are as the audience members cannot see everything in shot.

Thriller 5: Mission Impossible 2

2008-11-04T11:43:00.000-08:00

Camera

An establishing mid shot is used to begin the extract with the main protagonist throwing a pair of glasses in the direction of the camera. This is used to show how the narrative will have action/thriller parts embedded within it. Close ups are used when red images are collided together to create the title “Mission Impossible 2”. This helps the audience recognise the mystery behind the narrative and shows that the red has been used to connote meaning of blood, danger, and a thrilling text. The close ups also help build the tension by not showing the audience everything that is happening in the scene until towards the end.

Editing

Jump cuts have been used excessively to show the fast paced narrative and the representation of the sub-genre – thriller/action- this is reinforced by the red flame that is used after the title sequence in order to introduce the next scene. The flame connotes meanings of violence and action.

Sound

The non-digetic rock music begins once the male protagonist has thrown the pair of glasses towards the camera. This creates a very tense atmosphere which is reinforced by the close-ups that are used instead of showing the audience everything that happens within the scene.
The Rock music that is used contains multiple instruments throughout the text this can also mean that the film will obtain multiple thriller sequences too.

Mise-en-scene

The location appears very hot, this is reinforced by the way the male protagonist is dressed- t-shirt and shorts. The location looks very calm and peaceful which is a juxtaposition to the sub-genre of the text. The director has intentionally created this opposition to allow audience members to expect something different from the film.

Thriller 4: Walk on the wild side

2008-11-04T11:25:00.000-08:00

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Camera

At the beginning the camera shakes, this makes the audience think that they are waiting for something to appear into the scene. The camera uses various shots like tracking and panning in order to follow the cat. Close ups and mid-shots are used so that the audience are kept waiting for something to happen next, thus increasing the tension. Close-ups are especially used in the cat fight, so that the audience is limited to what they can see. This makes the fight seem more dramatic and violent than it really is.

Editing

The pace of the sequence is slow, in order to allow the tension to be built and the audience to be kept captivated by the narrative of the extract. Once the black cat meets the white cat the pace is much quicker and jump cuts are used to represent this in a juxtaposition to the rest of the scene.

Sound

The non-digetic sound is very dramatic and it has been used to reinforce each step that the cat makes. More instruments are introduced throughout and the music begins to heighten. Thus making the audience realise the action/ thriller sequence is about to take place.

Mise-en-scene

The cats that are used are black and white this has been stereotypically created to allow the audience members to relate it as being good verse bad like in any other thriller films. If this obvious contrast was not created it would make the audience less interested and more confused with the way the narrative of the film is represented.

Thriller 3: The Illussionist

2008-11-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

--VIDEO FOUND ON VLE--

Camera

The camera is constantly shaking throughout the whole of the extract which appears parrarel to the mysterious non-digetic music that plays in the background. Therefore allowing the audience to relate to the time in which the film was set in. The camera shaking is also used to reinforce the movements made by the people that appeal in long shots during parts of the extract.

Editing

The editing is a very slow pace to correlate with the classic music playing. The director has used a slow pace to also build upon the narrative and draw the audience to the conclusion that something thrilling will happen soon.

Sound

Classical non-digetic music is used throughout to allow the audience to connect with the narrative of the film. It has been used by the director so that a tradional era is being transmitted to audience members throughout the sequence.

Mise-en-scene

An old transition has been created on screen to reflect the characters that appear in some of the long shots of the sequence, these people are dressed in a way that make them look traditional. The last part of the sequence ends with a man sitting on a chair on stage whilst a still audience is watching. This is some what simple yet affective as the sound has stopped and the tension builds towards the next scene.

Thriller 2: Casino Royale

2008-11-04T09:19:00.000-08:00

Camera

The iconic gun barrael sequence uses a long shot to allow the audience to relate to what is happening as they have seen it in previous Bond films. The generic hybrid of thriller and action is established when the main protagonist points the gun at the camera and shoots. This is again reinforced throughout the extract by the shooting hearts on the screen. The director has used CGI throughout, to reinforce that the film is a contemporary classic. Playing cards, guns, and fighting is used in the sequence to show the audience what they will expect from the narrative.

Editing

The gun barrarel sequence begins in black and white but when the protagonist shoots the screen bursts into colour- red- this has been done to allow the audience to become introduced to the action that will appear throughout. The director has used this to show that Bond is not just simply black and white as a character, he is feisty and this has been reinforced by the splash of red on the screen which also connotes meanings of danger, violence and blood.

Sound

There is one song called “You Know My Name” that is used in the extract. The music is quite loud and boisterous this has been created intentionally to show that the action/thriller film will appeal to a particular group of people. This is reinforced by the guns and gambling that appears in the text.

Mise en Scene

Bond wears the iconic black and white suit throughout the extract the black connotes meanings that he will be in a very dark situation throughout the narrative which is reinforced and clearly emphasised by all the gun shots that occur in the sequence.

Thriller 1: Sin City

2008-11-04T08:51:00.000-08:00

Camera
The extract opens with an establishing shot of the woman (in red and white). A long shot is used to allow the audience to connect with what the character is doing and make assumptions based on first appearance. The camera then begins to use a mixture of mid-shots and close-ups, this connotes meanings of a ‘close’ relationship that the two characters in the film are apart of. The director has used these particular shots intentionally in order to allow the audience to recognize the characters facial expressions which thus helps establish what the character is like in the opening extract of the film.

Editing
The director cleverly uses a combination of red, white and black throughout the opening extract. The setting is mainly black and white, therefore allowing the red to be used in poignant parts of the scene in order to establish importance. The pace of the scene is slow and the movements appear calm and relaxed, which is a juxtaposition to the event that takes place in the scene -where the woman is shot by her supposed lover- this is used to build tension and also to keep the audience interested in the upcoming scene. Throughout the opening scenes black and white cartoon images have been used and some use pausing images in order to draw the audience to a particular part of the sequence. The director has used this to make the audience closely identify with the reaction of the two characters and how the narrative will develop. A bright light is used behind the two main characters, the director has used this to highlight where the action is taking place. It has also been used to allow the audience to relate to the lights that are around the location/buildings.

Sound
At the beginning of the extract, the director uses a non-digetic saxophone this is used for multiple reasons. Firstly it creates a slow, romantic atmosphere through the jazzy tones which is reinforced by the two people that meet together. It is also used to establish the American location, which is again reinforced by the spoken dialogue of the American accents that both characters use.
Non digetic sound is used in the form of spoken dialouge by the male protagonist, the director has used this intentionally so that we can see the narrative from his perspective.

Mise-en-scene
The main character is wearing a red dress and red lipstick, whilst the rest of the scene is in black and white. The red connotes meanings of danger, love, and blood, which is symbolic towards the end of the extract. The director has done this to make it obvious to the audience that something will happen to the woman and not the man, which is reinforced by the fact he is in black and white and not red. CGI and animation is used throughout the extract in order to build tension and also develop the narrative of the story. The director has used this to freeze certain images to make them poignant to the audience. The two characters wear very sophisticated clothes and it seems that they are the only people that are moving in the scene and the surroundings/background. Therefore the director has used this to focus the attention of the scene rather than the location of the film, which becomes more apparent towards the end when a long shot, panning and tracking is used to establish the setting.

Thriller Research: WIKIPEDIA ONLY

2008-11-03T06:01:00.001-08:00

Thrillers often take place wholly or partly in exotic settings such as foreign cities, deserts, polar regions, or high seas. The heroes in most thrillers are frequently "hard men" accustomed to danger: law enforcement officers, spies, soldiers, seamen or aviators. However, they may also be ordinary citizens drawn into danger by accident. While such heroes have traditionally been men, women lead characters have become increasingly common; for an early example see Sigourney Weaver's character Ripley, in the movie Alien, 1979.
Thrillers often overlap with mystery stories, but are distinguished by the structure of their plots. In a thriller, the hero must thwart the plans of an enemy, rather than uncover a crime that has already happened. Thrillers also occur on a much grander scale: the crimes that must be prevented are serial or mass murder, terrorism, assassination, or the overthrow of governments. Jeopardy and violent confrontations are standard plot elements. While a mystery climaxes when the mystery is solved, a thriller climaxes when the hero finally defeats the villain, saving his own life and often the lives of others. In thrillers influenced by film noir and tragedy, the compromised hero is often killed in the process.
In recent years, when thrillers have been increasingly influenced by horror or psychological-horror exposure in pop culture, an ominous or monstrous element has become common to heighten tension. The monster could be anything, even an inferior physical force made superior only by their intellect, a supernatural entity, aliens, serial killers, or even microbes or chemical agents. Some authors have made their mark by incorporating all of these elements (Richard Laymon, F. Paul Wilson) throughout their bibliographies.
Similar distinctions separate the thriller from other overlapping genres: adventure, spy, legal, war, maritime fiction, and so on. Thrillers are defined not by their subject matter but by their approach to it. Many thrillers involve spies and espionage, but not all spy stories are thrillers. The spy novels of John le Carré, for example, explicitly and intentionally reject the conventions of the thriller. Conversely, many thrillers cross over to genres that traditionally have had few or no thriller elements. Alistair MacLean, Hammond Innes, and Brian Callison are best known for their thrillers, but are also accomplished writers of man-against-nature sea stories.
Thrillers may be defined by the primary mood that they elicit: fearful excitement. In short, if it 'thrills', it is a thriller.
(This information was gathered from http://www.wikipedia.org/)