Prelimary Task: Micro Film

Here is the finished product of our prelimary task where we were asked to produce a micro film of no longer than 30 seconds. The film has a simple narrative, conforming to the instructions we were given to include three simple lines of dialogue. We have also incorporated the required cinematography technique  of a shot/reverse shot displaying a conversation between two speakers throughout the sequence in which our protagonist is pressurised into smoking. We have also paid particular attention to mise-en-scene and have used the appropriate costume of casual clothing according to the characters types of teenagers as well as the setting and location of a college.

Through carrying out this practice task I have gained a vital insight into the use of cinematography for effect such as the shot-reverse-shot which helps to add drama by showing different perspectives of the same shot and also helps to build relationships between characters by showing the way in which they interact. I have also learnt of the importance of mise-en-scene such as costume, props and setting to enhance the narrative and make the film more credible. I plan to carry this new-found knowledge forward and apply it to the making of my full short film.

First Task

For my first task for this year I have been asked to produce a micro film of no longer than 30 seconds using the simple piece of dialogue provided. I am required to pay particular attention to mise-en-scene and cinematography and have been provided with a short list of core requirements concerning camerawork which must be included within my short film such as a 'short-reverse-shot' and a 'cross-cut' though I am not permitted to move the camera whilst filming. My short film must also have clear establishment of genre which I intend to address through the use of setting and costume.

First post: Introduction to A2

My name is Neil Readman and I am an A2 media student currently beginning studies into short films. Over the course of this year, I plan to research and study short films to gain a solid understanding of the typical conventions with the end task of producing my own short film.