Final Major Project
Jacob Gorman
Project Proposal
Rationale:
I believe that over the duration of this course, I have learnt a lot about the art of film-making and the practical process of creating films. The area I believe I have improved upon the most is my skill as a camera operator, as I have not only learnt how to correctly and professionally operate a video camera, but my knowledge of framing techniques and the importance of different shots and angles greatly improved. Prior to my enrollment on this course, I was never interested or knowledgeable about the practical techniques necessary to creating films and other pieces of visual media, but I have since developed my understanding and comprehension of these devices, and I am now dedicated to practicing and utilizing them. I focused my attention on camera operation due to my affinity for visual storytelling and my admiration for intelligent shot composition.
Project Concept:
My concept for my final major project is a short film inspired by films like ‘Eraserhead’ and ‘Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas’. The basic premise is about a man who begins to write a script in an isolated room, only to slowly lose his grasp on reality. The overall purpose of my short film is to explore themes of isolation, anxiety and feelings of inadequacy, as well as to create an atmospheric and entertaining experience. The themes explored in the short film are very important to me, and I hope these concepts can be effectively conveyed on-screen. I hope to draw from the dreamlike qualities of David Lynch's filmography, as well as a more personal story in the same vein as Spike Jonze.
I plan on researching different filming techniques to enhance the feelings of disorientation and isolation, as well as different lighting techniques in order to enhance the atmosphere of the enclosed room. I also want to analyze several of the films that inspired me, in order to grasp a better understanding of what makes these concepts and techniques work correctly. In terms of resources, I will need a camera, a tripod, 2 light rigs and potentially a boom mic. Lighting is an incredibly fundamental part of my short film, and I plan on using a wide variety of lighting setups and camera angles too add to the atmosphere and delusional nature of the short.
Evaluation:
I plan on creating a very in depth evaluation of our short film. I believe that the most efficient way to evaluate our finished product is to break down each stage of our production, and carefully dissect what we did correctly and what can be improved. Along with this more structured way of evaluation, a meticulous look into the overall production would be warranted, as we can further develop what we can improve in the future.
Proposed Research Sources and Bibliography (Harvard Format)
My primary research will mostly contain surveys filled out by my fellow students, as well as contacting industry professionals and experienced filmmakers, in order to gain advice about how to create the best possible project, along with a technical advice and practical feedback.My secondary research will be analyzing specific films and music that inspired me, as well as researching how to achieve the shots I want, and the effects they can have on the audience. In terms of my bibliography, I plan on utilize articles and essays detailing how to use techniques correctly, and how to pace and structure a scene. Along with this, I will also credit my sources for the different Tools and resources I use, such as Celtx or Bubbl.