Filming Locations

I've been researching filming locations and a great spot to film is Markham Park. My partner Richard has discussed filming at this location and its one of the top locations to scout for a possible film shoot. The scenery there is very diverse and can give the appearance of many different locations. The ability for us to change locations quick is important in spy films as they involve a lot of chases scaling many different terrains. Being able to quickly adapt will be a large benefit. This is also close by the school and this will allow us to go back multiple times if we wish. 

Meeting with Reflection Group

     After discussing my plan to create a spy film, my group said that they like the idea but also would enjoy a crime and gangster film. The fact that it's unique and not seen very often grabs attention. Other genres such as horror and drama are far too common and a new genre would be a welcomed change. Currently I'm also deciding whether or not to use a speedboat in the film. Although the scene would be enhanced with the inclusion of a speed boat, it may not be safe. I think I'll err on the side of caution and not use the speedboat. 

Deciding on a Genre

Our group has finally decided what genre we will use in our film opening. At first a gangster movie was what I was thinking but after discussion with my groupmate, we have decided on a Spy film. With so many spy films having been created, there is a lot of genre conventions to work with and challenge. There is usually a smooth male character, a assistant, a love interest and an archenemy. Also, there may also be a external organization assisting or hiring the main character. These movies often time contain multiple action scenes.

Character Types

     Characters must be shaped throughout the film and I believe that this is one of the most important elements of film. The way that the audience engages with certain characters changes their overall feeling of the film. Just like novels, characters can't all be dynamic or all be static. An balance of the two is crucial when developing a interesting cast. The dynamic between the two actors must also be good. A great example of this is shown with Will Ferrell and John C. Riley. Their collaboration in Step Brothers and Talladega Nights has made their characters better together. Many fans love each actor but together more people enjoy them. This relationship intrigues the fans of their comedy and receives amazing ratings. I plan on creating a intriguing character dynamic with my film opening.

New Technologies Used in Film Openings

     I have been researching new technological advancements in the field of film. The most used advancement recently has been drones. The ability to film from and above and keep the camera steady is great for the relatively cheap cost of drones. Now, anyone has the ability to take beautiful long shots.

     Another new innovation used in film is a way to create high budget looking films on a low budget. Smartphone Gear is a great alternative for anyone that is operating on a budget. Stabilizers and Rigs are being adapted to smartphones and allow for people to easily take a quality shot. 

Exploring Representation

I would like to represent the issue of diversity. In recent years, I have noticed that social groups have not been inclusive unless your a certain type of person. Racial and ethnic social circles have always been around, but now, it is also based on your activities. For Example, I have friends that only hangout with kids that are involved in the same sports as them or have the same classes. The cultural diversity is becoming more sectioned off and people aren’t exploring different groups.

Recently Michael B. Jordan, star of Creed, spoke about wanting to increase the influence of minorities in Hollywood. In a Interview with npr about Creed he stated, “So I've always had the notion of create the roles, you know, not the stereotypical roles. You know, I told my agency at a younger age earlier in my career, like, I only wanted to go out for roles that were written for Caucasian males because I knew the roles had no bias on it.” His goal is to challenge social norms and conceptions of what should be accepted. That is a big issue I would like to tackle in my project.

Another film that tried to increase understanding between racial groups was Straight Outta Compton. The film depicted the harsh reality of racism that still existed well into the 1980s. The Group highlighted in the film, NWA, challenged this prejudice and it help lead to better race relations. The most important part of accepting diversity is realising where the other side is coming from. This movie showed the hardships of racism in the 80s.

Recent stories have been talking about the integration of minority groups in films, but it isn’t often celebrated. In most of the movies that minorities play a role, it isn’t a lead. I would use the idea of prejudice against minority groups and show how it can be corrected. The idea that it is changing would be challenged in my piece.  

Finding a New Genre

The genre I will be discussing is Action. Typical conventions in action movies include a plot that is based on a extreme story and fight scenes which are common. Most conflict in the story is physical and involves chases. Productions techniques often include fast camera cuts that make actions fights seem much more intense. The music used in these films are meant to get the audience’s heart pumping and adrenaline heightened. The fight scenes also usually travels through a series of sets.

A great action film that showcases these techniques is The Dark Knight. This film is based on the superhero Batman and his encounters with the Joker. The majority of this film showcases the relationship between the two arch enemies. The use of a metropolis like Gotham City and cars flying shows surrealism, but the people and interactions are very much aspects of realism. Action movies often enjoy pushing this boundary and challenging norms. Also, throughout the film, Batman and The Joker travel through a number of different settings. These long, drawn-out fights are quite typical in action films.

Another action film that is uses conventions and techniques is Skyfall. This is one of the most recent Bond films. It involves Bond trying to save the rest of MI6 while taking down his enemy. The plot is quite consistent with Bond films and action films. It involves a long story that travels to many locations. The soundtrack used powerful songs which were meant to excite the audience. As James Bond travels from train to car to a boat, the action scenes become quite long.

Good Action Film examples include:
John Wick

Logan












Mission Impossible - Rogue Nation












Taken










The Bourne Ultimatum