Location (reflection) 34

        With this entire process coming to a close, a vital aspect I need to reflect on is how we implemented our two locations and what advice I would like to take into the future. To review, we filmed in two vital locations; the Coral Springs High School auditorium and my personal bedroom. 

Scene 1: CSHS auditorium

As seen throughout my previous location planning + implementation posts, filming in the auditorium was sort of a rollercoaster. I won't bore you with the same details about finding a plan B and getting in contact with the theater teacher, but I will discuss a problem that arose on filming day. As you can see from the image below, there is a large screen hanging behind Lily.. this was not intentional. When we got to the auditorium, everything was going as plan, that was until the theater teacher informed us that the projector screen was stuck down and could not be moved. At first I brushed this off, however as filming progressed, this became more of an issue. Me and my crew described the screen background as sort of an interview style, it just wasn't.. right. Overall, obtaining and getting to this location worked out in the end, but the little things (like not checking to see if the screen was broken!!) can wreck the project.

Snap shot of Lily acting in front of broken screen

Scene 2: My bedroom

Before we even started to develop the plot, I knew my room would be a good filming location due to my availability. Thus, when the collaboration process came, we agreed that my own room would represent Annie's personal thoughts and mind. And as I discussed in my directing reflection post, I made the decision to film here first, so my cinematographer and I could find our momentum while not being under a time crunch. However, there was still a major issue. Just because I knew the size of my room, that didn't mean my group did. When Miley (cinematographer) arrived at my house, she told me her concerns with the shot list/storyboard due to her misperception of how much of room we would have to film. As a result, we had to make last minute changes to the shots to fit the size of my room. Overall, not even some wide angle example pictures could of given the same detail as an in-person visit could have.

In summary, there are a few things I learned throughout the entire location process that I will take with me in the future, the main one being to check first!! Though it may seem relatively simple, as a group we failed to have a test run with the locations. As director and as the group leader, I picked which locations to use and initially thought that they were fine and ready to use! In retrospect I was completely wrong. No matter how sure you might be, directors should always take initiative and test the locations to ensure they are fit to film.

Dream Opening (reflection) 33

        One of my main worries in the entire pre-production/production process, was our film coming off as cliche. Its already common for independent production plots to come off as overused, but with our use of a dream sequence, this possibility is more likely. Thus, as a final conclusion to my dream opening posts, I would like to ask unbiased outsiders, if our film comes off as cliche. To be specific, these outsiders will include someone from Gen Z, and Gen X. By making this decision, I hope to understand how different age groups perceive teen-dream-dramas differently, and if our intended audience (gen z) finds our film unoriginal.

    To start this process, I have to formulate questions to ask these neutral subjects that properly answer my question without just saying "Is this cliche???"

1. The first question I will ask is, "Does this film opening remind you of another? And why do you think that?" This query poses my question but keeps it more welcoming. Both of my subjects have ample movie knowledge, allowing them to be well-rounded and familiar with many different genres. Thus, this question is broad enough where they can give a simple comparison from their personal catalog.
2. The second question I will ask is, "Did you know scene 1 was a dream? And at what point did you know that?" This question is crucial to ask because a large element in preventing cliches in dream sequences is to keep the audience engaged and aware, you never want to fool them!! And to review, our addition of the foreign sounds, ironic dialogue, and more, was meant to signify this state to the viewers.
3. The last question I will ask is, "Do you think the setting in scene one furthered the plot?" Referring back to my initial dream research post, a dream sequences' setting sets the tone for the characters "psychological landscape". Thus, we picked the empty auditorium to one, showcase her aspirations and fantastical goals, but also to demonstrate her fears and underlying fixed mindset. So, I want to see if this particular setting is accurately displayed to the audience.

    Now that the results have come in, lets review what these findings mean towards our films originality/clicheness. To begin, I was most in shock by the responses from question 1. As I discussed above, both candidates are well rounded with movies, so, for neither of them to say our film reminded them of another was a great first step. Question 2 also slightly suprised me when the candidates didn't immedidatley know it was a dream. To review, my initial dream research stated that to make a dreamstate not cliche, you must not fool the audience. Thus, we added signifers (ex. foreign noises, ironic statements) to attempt to keep the viewers in the loop with Annie's dream state. However, as shown in the chart above, person 2 (gen z) didn't initially know it was a dream, just that something was "off". This means that our elements worked.. to an extent. In the future, if I want to truley give that "dream state" look, I could have used a soft focus lens/technique. Lastly, it turned out that the use of location 1 was a big hit. Both candidates belived that the angles and shots of the auditorium made them feel uneasy and was extremly benficial to their understanding of Annie's anxiety.

Writing Screenplay (reflection) 32

        While I'm currently in the reflecting process, one of the most important aspects I need to reflect on, is writing screenplay. To review, my first project as a director did not require me write a screenplay, that being because it was a swede. Thus, I needed to go back into the film basics and learn how to properly write screenplay. I started off by writing our films logline; a films sort of "thesis" or why a producer would want to read your script. After further research with examples, my group and I landed on the logline... "Each time she hears a certain song, she's transported into a fantasy where she wins it all... However this dream actually lies as a thumbtacked poster on her wall, revealing her burning ambition to succeed." After reviewing our final cut, its clear that this logline was false in one aspect... the addition of "fantasy".

    Below I have included a short clip of Annie's acceptance speech from her dream. Look, does that look like a fantasy to you? No. After going through production/post-production, Annie ambitions and thoughts have become more evident and I've realized that her dream isn't pure fantasy, its her deepest fear. Yes, she may desire to succeed, but her inner thoughts and fixed mindset cloud this wish, making her dream state, a nightmare. So, if I were to alter the false logline segment, I would write "Each time she hears a certain song, she's transported into an illusion where she wins it all..." This minor change is more relatable to our film and in turn, makes our logline more accurate. In the future, I have to remember that minor details such as loglines are meant to be altered and ultimately show improvement.

Snip it of Annie's speech

    The second part of writing screenplay I had to research/implement was the script. I initially found out that each director should start off by making a 'beat sheet' but, since we were only making a film opening this wasn't exactly possible So, I went straight the writing process after watching some YouTube videos about WriterDuet (the script writing platform I used). After referring back to the rough draft we made in class, I slowly pieced together the final script we would be using in production. As production progressed, Dylan (editor) and I realized that a specific line in the script was sticking out, the joke. The joke I'm referring to is attached below, and as you can see, its painfully corny... Regardless, this cringe joke is a key part in Annie addressing her dream state and was vital to the film. My point in reflecting this aspect is my realization that not all script aspects are amusing, but they are still vital to advancing a films plot.

Snip it of Annie's joke

Song choice (reflection) 31

        For those who remember, my group and I were really torn with picking which song to use in our filming. After conducting music research and finding Indie as the most accurate genre, we went back and forth throwing ideas around and landed on three viable options; 'Dream' by Al Green, 'Dream A little Dream Of Me' by The Mamas & The Papas, and 'Dream On' by Aerosmith. After interviewing both a Gen X subject and a Gen Z subject, we saw common trends in 'Dream A little Dream Of Me' that aligned with our tones and moods, especially in the Gen Z subject. Thus, we moved forward with post-production, implementing this tune. As a final song post, I would like to review this implementation and the afterthoughts of the original candidates.

    My goal here is to see if the song implemented in the film changed the candidates original feelings about the tune. Thus, I will be asking the same (or very similar) questions, these being:

1. What emotions does this song in the film make you feel, and why?
2.  Do you think this song accurately matches with the actions of the film?
3. What theme do you think this song in the film represents?

    Overall, I can see the trends set in the original research questions were maintained through the entire post-production process. After reviewing both responses, I believe that these emotions and thoughts were very similar due to our use of elements that evoked similar feelings that the candidates originally felt. For instance, person 2 (gen z) thought that the tune had an "earie vibe" to it. Thus, we insured to have elements like an empty audience and foreign noises that evoked the same feelings. I think my decision to conduct music research and planning ultimately helped to ensure that the tune we picked stayed consistent to our films aesthetics.

CCR 2: How does your product engage with audiences and how would it be distributed as a real media text? (planning) 30

        The final CCR question I need to prepare for is question 2, "How does your product engage with audiences and how would it be distributed as a real media text?" 

                   Response from Marie's Secret          Response from The Monocle

    Method: Before even starting my research, I understand that my answering method must include outside opinions and an actual audience rather than my own commentary. Thus, I have found a few different options that will properly answer the question "How does your product engage with audiences and how would it be distributed as a real media text?" The first option is a film viewing, a method where I ask both crew members and unbiased people to come all at once and view the film opening. This approach can be beneficial because everyone can collaborate and discuss what they think in one setting. As shown above, by asking for different opinions, I can further my own reflection and understand how my product engages with audiences. Another common method I've noticed is the use of a trailer. Yes, we only made a two minute film, but we still need to show how this short would be distributed as a feature length film. As you can see above, by using a trailer I can include realistic elements like the production company (ex. A24), release dates, and streaming platforms; all real characteristics a film need to be distributed as a real media text.

    Answer: This questions concerns two main aspects of, connecting with audiences, and being distributed in the media industry.

• Engaging with audiences: The first part of the question discusses audience appeal or, what makes our film interesting and exciting to viewers. This relates to our own production because we use relatable elements like teenagers/young adults to tell our story. As I've discussed in my original drama planning posts, we really wanted to connect with viewers with not only similar dreams, but similar ages. Thus, by expressing younger ages through the five elements of film, we are engaging with the audience.
• Distributed as a real media text: The other part of CCR question 2 concerns how our film, if it was a feature length film, would reach audiences in the real world. This relates to our own film opening, because its an independently owned company. When companies such as ours, release films, especially their first ones, their tend to focus on platforms that gain attraction quickly (ex. YouTube). Additionally, other media texts, even extremely well-known ones, submit to film festivals. If we were to do the same, I suggest we submit our film to the Sundance and Tribeca film festival's due to their global recognition.

Dream Opening (implementation) 29

        With production coming to an end and post-production coming near, a large aspect I need to reflect on is how we implemented our dream research/planning into actual production. Thus, in todays blog post, lets review my creative process and how we implemented it while filming:

• Research: In my initial research post, I learned that a dream sequence requires one, a fake out (a narrative device where shocking dramatic scenes that explore a characters fears/anxieties) and two, audio techniques (including non-diegetic tunes to build strong importance). Also, I learned that it is VERY easy for a dream sequence to come off as cliche, however, this can be resolved by insuring that your viewers know that your sequence is in fact a dream. This allows for the audience to be more engaged and so they wont feel "fooled". Another key dream detail I picked up was incorporating audio/music to advance the plot.
• Planning: In my planning post, I then compared my plot ideas with popular dream sequences like The Great Gatsby (2013) and The King of Comedy (1982). After reviewing both my preliminary research and prior examples, I collaborated with my crew and we built the foundation of our dream sequence based off these factors.

Extract from acceptance speech

    An example of our implementation of dream sequence elements is the inclusion of Annie's speech. In my dream opening planning post, I had already discussed that we wanted Annie to express her internal feelings within her acceptance speech. But what this speech also did, was give emphasis to the dream state by stating ironic comments. (Above, you can find a clip of this speech)

    Another dream sequence element we implemented was audio. As I've stated above, including sound effects or music, builds an emotional anchor with the audience that dialogue isn't always able to achieve. We implemented these elements through the addition of foreign noises that Annie hears while giving her speech (this aspect is currently being edited in post-production). As the dream progresses, so does the audio chaos. The dream anchor is then reinforced when the foreign cat noises from the speech are no longer foreign, and is sitting right next to her. 

Snapshot of empty auditorium

    The last dream opening aspect I would like to touch on is the setting. In my research/planning I stated that a specific location sets the tone for what's to come inside and outside the dream state. And as I've discussed in multiple location posts, it was vital our setting represented what was going on in Annie's head. Thus, as you can see from the image above, by panning to empty seats, we are giving insight to Annie's strive for greatness and knowing how unrealistic her goals are. Overall, this detail untimely reinforces the dream state to the audience.

CCR 1: How does your product use or challenge conventions and how does it represent social groups or issues? (planning) 28

        Another question I need to prepare for is question 1, "How does your product use or challenge conventions and how does it represent social groups or issues?". Going into the planning process, I was nervous due to the complexity of this question. However, by viewing previous examples, I can further my knowledge regarding this question. 

    Similar to my other CCR planning blog posts, I will review past attempts and see how I can personally advance them, however, this question differs due to the wide range of answering methods used. For instance, those who has previously answered questions 3 and 4, tended to follow similar approaches while it seemed that everyone felt that they needed a different method when answering question 1. But these findings aren't totally out of the ordinary. While the other questions are more general (ex. technology), this query is directly specific to each persons perspective of their own film.

Example Video Essay from Leah Cayres

Method: To move forward with the preparation portion of this blog, I would like to mention which answering method I find the most appropriate. Many of my peers have recommended the method of a video essay to me, but I tended to refrain from researching it due to the vast amount of editing needed. Nevertheless, I believe that with enough preparation this method could be my strongest response. As you can see from the example above, a video essay is simply an analytical short that explores a topic by including engaging elements like photos, videos, and GIFs. After some further research and conversations with others, it seems that Cap Cut or DaVinci Resolve are decent places to start. In order to further my editing skills in such a short amount of time, I plan to edit this response last. Though it may seem odd, I believe that editing the simpler questions first, will prepare me for this convoluted answering method.

Answer: Now the hard part.. How does my product use or challenge conventions AND how does it represent social groups or issues?

• To begin, lets review the first part of the question, "How does your product use/challenge conventions?" To recap, our film is pure drama, and discussing a products genre, is a key detail in answering this question. Our drama conventions are reflected when the film does what the audience expects. For instance, our use of soft lighting and music emphasizes the emotion that the viewers may not receive from the dialogue. Additionally, we use close-up shots and P.O.V angles to show Annie's feelings through cinematography. Our drama challenges conventions by doing the unexpected. This is shown through specific editing and visual elements such as dreamy imagery rather than realistic scenes, fantasy visual, and surreal/chaotic editing.

• The other part of the question is "how does your product represent social groups or issues?" This aspect is asking how our film portrays certain people or ideas, which greatly concerns are film opening. To review, our film follows the "unrealistic" aspirations of Annie, and her internal thoughts towards it. Thus, this is ultimately representing other young ambition and the innocence of it. By innocence, I'm referring to how every young teen dreams about something, and though they know it may not come true, but, they always keep it in the back of their mind.

Title Card (implementation) 27

        While being the midst of post-production, I vital element we need to implement in our film, is the title card. For those who remember, I conducted extensive title card research before production, so I could give my editor (Dylan) my vision. After doing this preliminary research, I made a rough draft using design elements that directly related to the purpose for our film. This rough draft is shown below.

Title card rough draft

Before I show the finished version, let me explain what was wrong with the draft. 

1. The font: After collaborating with Dylan, we decided that the font was to complex. In my planning post, I stated how we wanted a thinner font to display Annie's fragile and innocent feelings. Thus, we needed something more simple to represent this. Another key title card aspect is font size. This detail directly relates our font style because it also needs to reflect our message. Thus, we made it smaller and wider.
2. The title: As you can see above, the original draft didn't have a title or credits. As time was running out, we needed to finalize a title that not only reflected Annie, but also our message. Dylan originally suggest "The strive of dream" as an option but was eventually vetoed due how straightforward it was. We eventually collaborated and decided that "Forevermore" properly reflected our message. For those who are unfamiliar, forevermore is an adverb that describes something continuing without end, it lasts... forevermore. We compared this definition with our own film, and made the connection that not matter how unrealistic Annie's dreams are, they will last in her mind and bedroom forevermore.
3. The clouds: One of the main reasons why I added clouds was to signify the beyond, and mysteriousness of Annie goals which ultimately reinforces the dream tone/atmosphere. My group agreed that this was a good addition, however, there were two changes we made. The first thing we altered was the transparency. Yes, the clouds, are important, but they aren't the main focus here, the title is. The other detail we changed was the movement. As I discovered in my research, a though it may be a "card", its not just a still frame. Thus, we decided to have to clouds move in opposite directions. This action along with their placement on the screen, gives the illusion that they are revealing the words, "Forevermore."

Finished title card

        Overall, after not only doing my own research/planning but also collaborating as a team, we were all able to give our opinions and build a collaborative title card.

Location 1: Scene 1 (Implementation) 26

        Production has officially wrapped and one of the final aspects I would like to discuss is our implementation of location 1, or better known as the auditorium. 

    To review, we planned for scene 1 to express Annie's internal goals while scene 2 (her room) expresses her realistic view of them. As I've discussed in my location planning post, we looked into many options that properly displayed our idea but we eventually ended up with our own, Coral Springs High School auditorium. Before filming day 2 came, my cinematographer (Dylan) and I were extremely worried that this location would fall through and not be available. Thus, we went back into the research process and tried to find alternative options. After some recommendations from our peers, we decided that Pine Trails Park, in Parkland would be a good plan B because it offered a public stage.  

Pine Trails Park stage

    After some failed attempts, Lily Villalobos, our actor, got us in touch with Ms. Krantz, the CSHS theater teacher. This allowed us to directly speak with her and confirm days we could film in the auditorium and also allowed us to but plan B (filming at the park) on the back burner. To move forward with how this implementation went, lets review what we imagined vs. the reality.

Establishing shot

    Above, you can find an image of an establishing shot of the auditorium we will be using in the film. Though it may not be perfect, I believe that the location accurately showcased the award show scene Annie was dreaming of. For more context, this will be the very first shot shown in the film, slowly fading into frame from a black screen.

Image of Annie admiring "crowd"

    Another key detail we knew we needed from the auditorium to bring our film to life, was an empty room. Not a single seat filled.. just Annie.. Above you can find a snapshot of this aspect. It helps that we couldn't fill these even if we wanted to, but that's besides the point... The shot of pure isolation in this large and empty location, conveys a tone that a parks' stage could never do.

Annie holding award

    The last detail I would like to review regarding how we implemented it, was the award. As you can see above, Annie is holding a small trophy that represents what she's striving for. You might recognize this award from the poster Miley made for location 2 because we had her use the actually prop as a direct inspiration. Though it was not technically part of the location, the combination of the award with this particular setting allowed us to convey our entire message, of striving for greatness. 

✳Another crucial part of filming in the CSHS auditorium I would like to note, is the lighting. As I discussed in my Location planning, we not only needed permission to film in this location, but we needed someone to do the lighting & tech for the entire room. Lucky enough, Lily got us in contact with a student who was willing to do this job, making filming an even smoother process.

Drama genre (Implementation) 25

         Looking into the genre drama, has been one of my most detailed aspects. I've done this by not only reviewing examples, but I've also discussed how we were planning to implement these aspects into our plot and film. But now, let review how I implemented these factors with examples.

Scene 1: Shot 12: Take 1

1. Charcter-centered story: To recap, a main aspect in any drama, is to prioritze the main charcter unlike genres like comdey's, where the setting/dialouge is the main focus. We implemented this detail by showing the contrast of Annie's thoughts/goals through factors such as dialouge, audio, and shot length. An example of this implementation is shown above when Annie is receiving an award and says key statements like "I cannot believe this is real". Not only is the setting reinforcing this charcter-centered story, but also is the dialogue.

Image I took on set

2. Emotional conflict: Another detail crucial in dramas, is to include tones that represent internal feelings/conflicts like doubt, identity, fear, and desire. We implemented these internal conflicts by adding elements the viewers could see AND hear. As you can see above, the auditorium is empty. This detail reinforces Annie's anxiety and emotional battle she has with achieving this goal. Additionally, once post-production starts and Dylan (our editor) works on the film, he will had a crucial detail that can make or break this genre, audio. To review, Annie has such high anxiety and internal feelings toward this goal, that she not only sees er fate (empty seats), but she hears it through cat sounds, microphone feedback, and ears ringing.

3. Realistic actions: The final aspect that a dram film should have is realistic consequence/actions that the main charcter receives. This key detail makes the film believable and more relatable to outside audiences. We have implemented these additions by showing the realistic strive for greatness that many young people have. In the extract above, you can see Annie taking on this mindset and admiring the poster thats out of her reach.

Location 2: Scene 2 (Implementation) 24

        Another key aspect we implemented on filming day 1, was the location. As I've discussed in my 'Location planning' post, we needed a space that accurately displayed the contrast of Annie's dreams v. her reality. Thus, we decided that a bedroom would exhibit this "reality" aspect. And we know by now, my own bedroom seemed like the perfect fit due to my availability and decor.

Snapshot of filming in location 2 (my bedroom)

As I've stated above, a key reason why we landed on my room as the location, was my vast amount of decor, or more specifically, posters. So, since we wanted the opening to accurately represent Annie's strive, we needed to have a sign showcasing the award she dreams about having. Thus, our cinematographer, Miley, made this exact prop to hang in my room.

 

Finished poster

Poster in location

 

    Above, you can find the poster she made vs. it actually displayed on my wall. Overall, not only does the poster display the aspirations of Annie, but it also reinforced my decision to use my bedroom due to the other decor.

 

Example of my cat being in our film

 

    Another aspect of location 2 that we implemented on filming day 1, was my cat. To recap, we needed a detail in the film that tied Annie's dream, back to reality. Thus, we landed on my cat, Olive, to portray this role of Annie's reality anchor. When actually filming, she was extremely difficult to use, you can see this in the clip above. Nevertheless, she still took on her role and played her part.

Directing on set (reflection) 23

        Through the entire research process, I've picked up a few tips and tricks to take into account when directing. Thus, as production wraps, lets review how I implemented these aspects and what I would do differently in the future. 

    One of the main reminders I took into account going into production, was knowing we needed to have a cohesive environment. Many infamous directors are know more for their on-set techniques, rather than their films themselves. For example, I had previously research Martin Scorsese for his film openings, but later learned that he's widely appreciated for running a united and smooth filming environment. Going into production, I ensured I also incorporated these techniques on my own set, in my own way. For instance, I initiated that my crew filmed out of order in hopes to have a similar cohesive environment, let me explain. Ask we know, scene 2 takes place once Annie wakes up from her dream in her bedroom. So, as I've discussed in my location planning post, I believed my room was a good fit for this setting. With this being said, I knew we would be able to get our flow down if we had ample time filming in a location with no time limits. This example of me taking initiative and doing what's best for my group, represents the type of director I'm striving to be. In the future, I hope to take this a step further and provide an even smoother setting.

Candid photo of directing

    Another aspect I took into account while directing was communicating with my crew in order to achieve a balanced democracy. An example of this was having constant communication with both my cinematographer & editor on and outside of the set. While shooting, it was very much a collaborative effort between Miley (the cinematographer) and I because we were both very addiment about open communication. Thus, we constantly had conversations regarding the shot list and her filming approach to ensure we were on the same page. Another example was between Dylan (our editor) and myself. Before filming on day 1 even came, he expressed that he needed a clear way to organize the shots while editing due to constant misorganization in the past. Thus, I ensured to take his request and implement it in the way I deemed the most logical approach possible. This being, using a whiteboard to show what scene, shot, and take we were one rather than attempting to using confusing hand signals (shown in image above).

    Overall, I believe the progress I've made in the last few months has directly impacted how I direct on set. Not only have I learned critical communication skills, but I also have adjusted my own techniques to those who have mastered the art of directing. In the future, I hope to further my knowledge and always take requests from my crew.

Casting (reflection) 22

        As filming comes to a close, a major factor from the start was the cast. Who would play our only role? Who would represent our theme? And who would be the best fit? These were all vital questions we had to ask ourselves. However, as you may know, we collectively decided on Lily Villalobos due to her personality, talent, and availability. Overall I can confidently say this was the best decision possible, let me explain.

Example take of shot 2

• Her talent: Above, you can find a short clip from the first filming day. An element that sticks out here is Lily's authentic talent. A big factor in casting was talent because our other option, Sam, had an ample amount of acting experience. So, there was a risk in picking the less experience option. Nevertheless, this decision only showcased her talent even more. One aspect of her talent that stuck out was her somber side. As I've discussed prior, one of the reasons I picked her, was her bubbly personality and charm. However our film (specifically scene 2) required Lily come out of her comfort zone and act the part of dispirited teen who as unrealistic dreams. Despite the odds, Lily delivered and meet these expectations.

Snapshot of Lily acting

• Representing our theme: Though the extract may not show Lily's full capabilities, I personally felt that Lily represented our films goal extremely well. To recap, our plot revolves around a girl striving for a dream she deems as unrealistic, which is clear when she admires it as a poster on her wall. I believe Lily fit this role because of her own acting background and strive for greatness. In previous blog's I've touched on Lily's up and coming goals which made her a good candidate. However, these aspirations were even more evident after seeing her skills and her newfound interest in our film. For example, Lily was asking questions like "when are we filming scene 1?" and "are you making any other films this year?". Overall, these qualities truly represented our goal, of striving for greatness.

Overall, there are no current critiques I would give myself at the moment. I'm extremely delighted I went with my initial gut feeling and landed on Lily. In the future, I believe I should continue to see my options all the way through and decide on an actor with gender and experience aside.

CCR 3: How did your production skills develop throughout this project? (planning) 21

        Since my group and I are almost done with pre-production, I would like to further my preparation for the inevitable CCR questions that I'll have to answer. Thus, in todays blog I will take a dive into question 3: How did your production skills develop throughout this project. I will compare my past attempt with others and see what I can improve.

Former response to CCR 3

Above, you can find my past approach to answering CCR question 3. Though it was technically a "practice", I still answered the question to my fullest capabilities at the time, however, there were sill some major flaws.

• My approach: When going into the creative process, I believed that the best way to answer this complex question was to have an interview. An interview where a host (my sister) would ask me questions about my production skills. She did this by asking direct, but relevant, questions relating to aspects I had researched beforehand. This approach may have not been the most affective due to its short length and question style.
• My answer: Before my interview went into production, I took it upon myself to look at a previous examples of answering CCR questions 3 (finding are in CCR research #2 blog post). After conducting this research, I found that since I was creating an interview, I would need to answer questions about my skills throughout the entire process but solely from my my own recollection, no concrete examples. Thus, when it came down to answering this question, I took a similar route as the primary example and had my host ask questions that I knew demonstrated growth. However, my main issue with my answer, was the length. I didn't nearly explain my questions thorough enough and didn't use enough examples. Without these additions, I simply answered the questions and didn't take the time to clarify my own growth.

'The Monocle" CCR 3 example

• His approach: On the other hand, 'The Monocle' used a common method of a directors commentary to answer the question. Throughout this commentary, the director not only did a voiceover the film, but also the script. Additionally, the video included many pictures/videos overlayed on the commentary. These elements allowed him to accurately convey what how his skills developed while in my own attempt, I simply just described it.
• His answer: After reviewing 'The Monocles' approach to answering CCR question 3, a few aspects of his answering methods stuck out to me. First of all, he discusses his progression with his script which shows his initial skills versus what he learned throughout. Additionally, he reviewed what he did differently from his crew. These details stuck out to me because he not only explained his own skills, but he states how his fellow crews' techniques impacted his own development. This relates to my own reflection because I previously struggled with answering the questions to my full capability, however, by relating my development to my own crews success can strengthen my CCR.

After discussing both my flaws and strengths, I have realized that using an interview to answer this question may not be the most effective method. Referring back to my CCR 4 planning post, an interview is a perfect way to answer a question that doesn't require a lot of visual examples. Thus, it makes me hesitate to use it for this specific question. Additionally, with details being my most lacking criteria, moving forward with a directors commentary would allow me to criticize/compliment my development as much as possible.