Saturday, September 28, 2024

Schedules

 Hi blog!

I decided that I will begin my filming every other day starting next week to make sure I can perfect each scene and still hit all of the criteria in each section.

I have begun to plan out where I will put all my media credits and I would want them to blend in with each scene/clip so it goes along with the suspense theme in my horror film opening.

I intend to begin this on Monday, which will give me time to perfect those mistakes.

I will keep you all updated! 

Friday, September 27, 2024

Storyboard

 For the project, I’m getting really into the research on filming techniques that amp up the atmosphere and tension. One thing I’m learning is how camera angles and shots can really mess with viewers' emotions. 

For instance, wide shots can make a character feel super isolated, which heightens the sense of dread. According to No Film School, these shots not only showcase vulnerability but also set the stage for something scary lurking nearby.

I’m also digging into how lighting plays a big role in creating a creepy vibe. Low-key lighting, with its deep shadows, is perfect for building unease.

 An article from American Cinematographer points out that this kind of lighting can make things feel mysterious, which is exactly what you want in horror. Plus, I’m looking at how handheld camera work can bring an urgent, chaotic feel, pulling viewers right into the action.

All this research is helping me as I work on my storyboard, making sure every shot adds to the horror experience.

 I’m excited to blend these techniques into my film and create something that sticks with people long after they watch it!


Tuesday, September 24, 2024

Meaning

I’m back with some thrilling updates on my horror film project! This time, I will be explaining more about the atmosphere of the film. A random girl cooking in her kitchen when she receives an unexpected phone call.

The Ordinary Becomes UnnervingThe film opens with our protagonist, an everyday girl, preparing a meal in her cozy kitchen. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, but there’s a sense of something lurking just beneath the surface, everything seems perfectly normal—until her phone rings.

The Call That Changes Everything. When she answers, the voice on the other end is distorted and unsettling. The caller seems to know too much about her, referencing personal details that send chills down her spine. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that this call is not just a prank; it’s something far more sinister.

Building Tension... The tension ramps up as she tries to maintain her composure while the caller taunts her, intertwining the mundane act of cooking with a rising sense of dread. The kitchen, once a place of comfort, becomes a trap filled with uncertainty and fear.

These will all build up and I am currently in the process of making this storyboard by allowing a set imaginary sequence to follow when in the making.

Shooting wise, it will all begin to get put together after the correct order and layout is matched so it will perfectly make sense.

Saturday, September 21, 2024

Lighting

 Diving into lighting

Lighting is crucial in creating fear, especially in my kitchen setting. Here’s how I plan to use it effectively

Low-key lighting will cast deep shadows, creating a feeling of unease. Dark corners will hide threats, allowing the audience’s imagination to fill in the gaps. Strategic lighting can highlight important objects; for example, a light shining on a knife. 

I’ll also use color temperature to evoke emotion. Cooler tones, like blues, suggest chilliness, while warmer tones can initially imply comfort before turning ominous. Shifting from warm to cool can visually signal a character’s descent into dread.

Layering different light sources will add depth and dimension. Combining practical lights, such as those from appliances, with atmospheric lighting enhances realism and unease. Additionally, changing lighting dynamics from dim to bright can build tension, coinciding with plot twists or emotional shifts for greater impact.

Finally, lighting can serve symbolic purposes. A character bathed in light may represent hope, while one in shadows indicates danger. These visual cues will guide audience emotions and expectations.

By employing these techniques, I aim to transform the kitchen from a familiar space into a realm of suspense and fear. Stay tuned for more updates!


Friday, September 20, 2024

Genre/ Technical Elements

 Hey everyone!

I’m back with some exciting updates on my horror film project! As I dive deeper into the creative process, I can’t wait to share some intriguing plot ideas and technical strategies, especially since I’m focusing on the familiar setting of my kitchen.

One thrilling idea I’m exploring is the concept of “the ordinary turning sinister.” I envision starting with a cozy family dinner, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere before slowly unraveling a sense of dread. Imagine a loved one receiving mysterious texts that hint at a dark secret tied to the kitchen’s past. It’s that juxtaposition of safety transforming into horror that really excites me.

To elevate the tension, I’m considering incorporating a “time loop” element. Picture this: our protagonist tries to escape an ominous presence, only to find themselves back at the kitchen table, trapped in their own home. Each time they loop, the stakes get higher and the sense of desperation deepens. I think this twist will keep the audience guessing and on the edge of their seats!

On the technical side, I plan to use various camera angles and movements to create unease. Tight close-ups on the protagonist’s face during key moments will enhance emotional intensity, while a handheld camera during frantic scenes can evoke chaos and immediacy.

Lighting will be crucial in setting the mood. I’m thinking about using low-key lighting to cast deep shadows and flickering lights to mimic the unpredictable nature of fear—similar to techniques seen in classic horror films. Sound design will also play a key role. Subtle background noises—like distant whispers or creaking floorboards—can make the audience feel uneasy, even in the quietest moments. A sparse but chilling score will accentuate the build-up to critical plot twists.

To enhance the overall atmosphere, I’m diving into the mise en scène. I’ve created a mood board with unsettling kitchen props: a knife block with one missing knife, old cookbooks with eerie stains. These details will add layers to the storytelling, making the kitchen feel alive with history and menace.

As I continue to refine these plot and technical elements, I’m thrilled about how they’ll come together to create a gripping narrative. The kitchen, a place we typically associate with nourishment and comfort, will transform into a haunting space where terror lurks around every corner.

Stay tuned for more updates as I bring these ideas to life!

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Mise en scene

 Hi guys!

 I am back and better with more information about my project!

 As I dive deeper into my horror film project, I’m excited to set my story in my kitchen, drawing inspiration from the iconic dark scenes in Scream. 


    I envision using unsettling props like a flickering light and a creepy old phone to create an atmosphere of suspense, just like the infamous calls that heighten the tension in the film.

    The kitchen, a space that usually feels safe, will become a haunting backdrop where a casual day will take a turn. I can’t wait to see how these elements come together to craft this scene that keeps the audience on edge!!

I have also researched a little on how light elements also affect the way the facial expressions can show and mean on someone's face while in the film.

Getting more into the mise en scene, I used this WEB to figure out more about what I should use..

I will keep up with the new and improved elements I intend on using for the film!

Saturday, September 14, 2024

Process

 Hi! Today, creating a gripping horror film opening is all about using camera shots and angles to build tension and set the mood. For my recent project, I focused on several key techniques to enhance the eerie atmosphere.

Wide shots established the desolate setting, making the environment feel isolated and foreboding. Slow push-ins gradually increased suspense, drawing viewers’ attention to potential threats. High angles highlighted the protagonist’s vulnerability, while low angles made lurking figures appear more menacing.

 Dutch angles created a sense of disorientation, and close-ups captured the raw fear of the characters, making their terror feel personal. Finally, shadows and silhouettes added mystery and suggested unseen dangers.

By combining these techniques, I was able to create a chilling and immersive opening that keeps the audience on edge and builds anticipation for the horror to come.

I will update you all with new upcoming info!

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

More and more planning!

 Hi blog!

    I've been on a thrilling journey into the world of horror and thrillers, and it's been an eye opening experience. My latest obsession? The movie Scream. Directed by Wes Craven, Scream isn't just a classic and super entertaining film. It's a brilliant twist on the genre itself, all the suspense and effects really close the deal on this film.

     As I dive into its suspenseful storytelling and clever deconstruction of horror clichés, I'm learning how to build tension and create unexpected plot twists. 

    It's fascinating to see how the use of self-awareness and red herrings keeps the audience on their toes, and I’m excited to incorporate these techniques into my own project.


    I have researched through many videos and short trailers to get more of a hint on this and I intend to keep watching more and set the tone for my own personal film.

   I am in the process of finding out how to add my unique spin to this idea. I’m experimenting with pacing, surprise elements, and a bit of sound effects to give my film a fresh and original feel. 

    I will continue to set up different scenes and see which works best!


Stay tuned to see how it all unfolds!

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Transition

Hello Blog,

It has been a long time since my last post, but I am back ready and stronger! Continuing from now on, I have chosen to go a different path and start a horror/thriller film opening. I have high hopes for this film and I am looking forward to completing it!
This will be a resubmission and focusing on a whole new different theme for this opening.
I intend to base it around suspense and reach the goal of a creepy sort of feeling that something bad is going to happen as the audience is viewing.

I will continue further planning and keep you guys updated as I go on about the project. Searching through how I can use elements like shots, angles, sound, etc. to make my film stand out and show meaning through all of these elements. 

You will be hearing from me soon! 

Stay tuned.

Final Day!

Today is my last and final day of the blog and it has been such a long journey. I wanted to thank you all for being there with me exploring ...