Production Day 1

 The first day of filming is always unpredictable, but thankfully, things went better than expected. The cafe setting was perfect, I ended up picking option 3: Rose's Coffee Bar better than I even hoped for. It had just the right amount of life, with a steady flow of customers and natural background noise that made the scenes feel real. The management was also incredibly open to letting me film, which made everything a lot easier. Since time was limited, I focused on capturing all the shots with my lead actor, Joseph. We didn’t get through everything I originally planned, but the key moments were covered, which was my main priority. The space worked well for framing the shots, and the lighting was ideal for the tone I wanted to create.

This was everything I filmed for today:

After I called it a day, something completely unexpected happened, a real life emergency unfolded on my way home. An ambulance sped past, and moments later, a car was on fire in the highway. Of course, my first thought was hoping everyone involved was okay, sending prayers with my family, but from a filmmaking perspective, it was an incredible moment to capture. That kind of raw, unplanned intensity is something I never could have staged, and it adds a sense of urgency to my film that I needed when showcasing Joseph's car accident, 

Car on fire

Overall, Day 1 was productive, but there were still challenges. Communication issues, some stiff acting, and time constraints made the process more difficult than I had hoped for. There’s still a lot to refine, but now I know what to do for the next steps. Now, it’s about fixing what didn’t work and making sure the next filming session runs even smoother. Stay tuned for next blog on how to do that! 

Camera Equipment

 Hi everyone!! In today's blog, I want to discuss all the camera equipment I am going to be using in order to bring my film together. 

1. My iPhone 14 

Some people have fancy cameras. I have an iPhone 14. And honestly It’s all I need. The camera quality is sharp, it adjusts to lighting and surroundings settings so well, and with the right angles, it’s going to make this film look cinematic. I’ll be using it for everything, wide shots, close-ups, and any other shot I need. I know with the right settings my final product is going to look very professional. 

 2. The Tripod

Ever tried holding a phone steady for more than 10 seconds? Yeah, not happening. I think this is a universal problem we all have had. That’s where my tripod comes in. It's going to help me keep shots stable while I direct, act, and not drop my phone. The length itself was perfect, It was able to stand on its own and shrink down to me being able to hold it. Plus, it’ll help me get those perfectly framed shots instead of the accidental shaky scenes. 

3. The Mics 

Nothing ruins a scene faster than bad audio. And there's no way I'm going to let that happen to me. My teacher was kind enough to lend me some mics, and I’m going to use them wisely, placing them close to my actors to hear the dialogue perfectly. It's going to turn my scenes from sounding like inside a fish tank to nice crisp sounds. 

Script

 Hello once again!  I was fully prepared to struggle with this whole script thing, but turns out it was actually super easy. I used Studiobinder.com customizable script template, and when I say it did all the hard work for me, I mean it. The formatting? Already set. Scene headings? Just type and it auto formats. No stressing over margins or figuring out how to space dialogue, it’s all built in. Their tutorial on how to use it was also a lifesaver. I watched it once, and boom, I was scripting like a pro (or at least feeling like one). I thought I’d spend hours trying to make everything look right, but no. The script was coming together so fast that I actually had fun with it.

And honestly? I’m really proud of how it turned out. The story flows exactly how I pictured it in my head, and seeing it laid out in a legit script format just makes it feel real. Now that the writing part is done, I can focus on filming, which is where things are really going to get interesting. This is the template that helped me figure it out all, and in the bottom my Final Script.

The Great Music Struggle: Why Is This So Hard?!

Honestly, I was not looking forward to this part of the project. I’m super picky when it comes to music, so choosing the right one was a struggle. I started my search by watching the openings of different movies on Netflix to see what kind of music they used. A lot of them had this warm instrumental jazz, like the first episode of Monsters. The music there is soft but lively, with a cozy, almost nostalgic feel. It makes everything seem calm but still interesting, which I really liked. 

After that, I tried looking for tracks on Pixabay, YouTube Audio Library, and a few other websites. I didn’t find much at first, but there were a few on Pixabay that stood out. They had a nice vibe, but I’m still not sure if I’ll use them. I definitely want to keep looking to make sure I find the perfect one. (I’ll include a picture of the ones I liked!)

Even though picking the music was tough, I know that foley sounds are going to be the most important part of my audio. They’re what really bring the film to life. I found a super helpful YouTube video and it gave me a lot of ideas on how to make my sounds more realistic and natural. I’ll be focusing a lot on those little details, like footsteps, coffee cups clinking, and background noises to make everything feel more real. The video also told me where to find pre recorded foley sounds which I found very convenient in case I needed any! So yeah, this part took some effort, but I’m excited to see how it all comes together!

Sources:

1. Pixabay.com

2. Studio.youtube.com

Mise-en-scène elements pt.2

 Hi everyone!! the blog we have been waiting for, even me, prop design and costuming!! I think this is one of the coolest parts of the process, being able to bring my project to life. 

Designing the Magazine Cover-

To make Joseph’s death feel as real as possible, I needed a convincing magazine cover, one that looked came straight from a grocery store checkout line. In order to do that I started researching well known magazine publishers, such as Time, New York Magazine, People and so on. I specifically focused on covers featuring celebrity deaths. (I'm not going to lie this was very creepy) After getting a feel for the dramatic headlines and layouts, I hopped on Canva and started designing. I played around with fonts, colors, and images until I had something that looked very similar to my inspiration pictures. This prop is the biggest part of the opening where Joseph confirms something is terribly wrong.

Here is my final product, I am very proud of how it looks, the man in the cover is my uncle who decided to help me play out the role of Joseph so shoutout to him!

The Mirror Scene: A Final Twist-

Originally, the film ended with Joseph backing away from the magazine in shock, but I wanted something stronger. So, I added a mirror. After grabbing the magazine, Joseph starts trembling, with all the thoughts running through his head. But when he looks up at a nearby mirror his reflection is gone. Just an empty space where he should be. I'm already looking into editing softwares I can use to achieve this. This moment confirms Joseph is not here anymore, no matter how real everything feels to him. I'm planning to incorporate this mirror by using one already in the coffee shop.

Costume Design: Dressing Joseph Like a Star

To make Joseph feel like a believable 35-40 year old actor, I needed to dress him like one. I researched famous actors in that age range: Ryan Gosling, Jake Gyllenhaal, Henry Cavill, and Oscar Isaac, to see how they dressed in everyday life. I analyzed paparazzi photos, red carpet looks, and casual streetwear styles to get a sense of how a celebrity really dresses when they’re not on camera. From there, I built Joseph’s wardrobe. His day to day looks are put together but effortless, think neutral tones, well-fitted jackets, casual button-ups, and nice pair of sneakers. The idea was to make him look just famous enough to be believable as a Hollywood star, but not so flashy that it felt unrealistic.

Set design!

 Picking a location:

Things have finally started to get real, I start filming next week!! But before the cameras roll,  I need to stay organized, plan ahead, and finalize the mise-en-scène for my movie opening. One of the most important elements is set design, which means choosing the perfect location. My only location is basically going to be a cafe, I wanted to do some research beforehand to find one that really matched the vibe I was trying to go for. Here are some places I think would be a great fit:

1.  Press & Grind Cafe

Since I want to show Joseph’s luxurious city life, I had to step out of my hometown, more of a suburban style. Press and Grind Cafe was one of the first spots I checked out. The interior was nice, but it wasn’t giving what I needed. Too much open space, not enough character. It just didn’t have the right feel, something about it felt off. So, onto the next! On a side note I want to come here for the food, everything looks delicious on the menu.

  2. Living Green Cafe

The next spot I found was through TikTok (because where else do you find the best hidden gems?). And let me just say, it’s absolutely beautiful. The kind of place I’d love to go just for the vibes, even outside of filming. This one is still on my list of possibilities because it’s that good. The only thing is, for my outdoor shots, I really want those city views to emphasize Joseph’s lifestyle. But honestly, that’s an easy fix, I can just take separate shots in the city and edit them together to make it look like my character actually stepped outside. A little movie magic never hurt anyone.

3. Rose's Coffee Bar 

And then... I found it. Like it was waiting for me. This spot is perfect. From the inside to the outside, 

everything just clicks. The atmosphere, the layout, the way it just feels right, it’s exactly what I was looking for. It captures Joseph’s lifestyle effortlessly, that blend of luxury and city charm that I’ve been trying to find. The details even the way the lighting hits, it all just works. This might actually be THE ONE. Finally, after searching, scrolling, and second-guessing, I think I’ve found the perfect place to bring this scene to life. 

Like wow lets take a moment to admire this!

Finding the perfect location for my cafe was honestly the easy part. Now, I’m diving into the real fun, incorporating my other mise-en-scène elements, like costume and props, to bring everything to life. How will the characters' outfits reflect their personalities? What small details in the cafe will hint to the big event in the story? I’ve got some exciting ideas in the works, so stay tuned for the next blog where I’ll spill all those little details! 

Sources:

1. https://www.yelp.com/Aesthetic+Cafe

2. Rose's Coffee Bar

3. Living Green Tiktok

Introducing Joseph Whitmore

 When creating a character, it’s easy to come up with the obvious, what they look like, what they do, where they’re from. But what really makes them stand out is everything underneath. Their fears, regrets, and their emotions. That’s what I wanted to share about Joseph. He isn’t just the main character of my film opening, he is the story. He is the piece that has brought this story together and in todays blog I want to deep dive into his character and who he is.

Bringing him to life-

To help visualize him, I made a mood board (which was honestly so fun) with canva.com. I used pictures from my camera roll, Pinterest, and google. The goal was to capture the essence of Joseph, the life he had before and the mystery of what’s happening to him now. I started with images that represented his fame: bright stage lights, crowds of people, and bright smiles. Then, I added the contrast: the eerie details that hint at something being wrong. For instance, a newspaper headline that reads Gone Too Soon, a picture symbolizing the state of being in between the living and the dead; Interlude. You saw what I did there, I finally decided that was going to be my title. These little details help tell his story before he even speaks a word.

So, who is Joseph? He’s the kind of guy who once had it all, but maybe didn’t appreciate it the way he should have. He was looked up to, talented, always in the spotlight. He liked to dress casual, opposite to his lifestyle. He swung by the same coffee shop every morning, he's a man of routine. He is a very serious soul, he could have a chuckle or two but generally very serious and closed off guy, you could say almost as if hiding something. But fame comes with pressure, and somewhere along the way, things took a turn. Maybe he lost himself in it. Maybe he made mistakes he can’t take back. And now, in the present, he’s stuck in a reality that no longer acknowledges him. He exists, but… does he really? I want his death to not be an accident, I want it to be intentional in a way as a lesson to make him dive back into his past and think about all his life choices. The mood board helped me visualize that contrast between his glamorous past and his eerie present, and I think it’s going to make his story even stronger I’m super excited to keep developing him!

Side characters:

Even though Joseph is the main character, there is still some side characters that will help shape and develop my opening further.

The Barista- The barista plays a key role in showing Joseph’s disconnect from reality. She never acknowledges him, even when he speaks directly to her, making it clear that something is seriously off. Her repeated actions: ignoring him, making drinks, chatting with customers, makes Joseph start realizing something is very wrong with his present Without realizing it, she also feeds him crucial information about his own death through her conversation, pushing him toward the truth. More than just a background character, she’s a reminder that Joseph doesn’t belong in this world anymore, he just hasn’t figured it out yet.

The Stranger- The stranger Joseph bumps into seems like just another person passing by, but that tiny moment is actually a huge confirmation that something is seriously wrong. Normally, when you bump into someone, there’s a reaction, an apology, a glance, something. But this person doesn’t react at all, like Joseph isn’t even there. It’s subtle, almost easy to miss, but it solidifies the eerie feeling that Joseph doesn’t exist in this world the way he thinks he does. It’s the first physical proof that he’s not just being ignored, he’s completely invisible to the living.

Media Theory

 Hey everyone! I’ve been diving into media theories to see which one fits best with my project, These were all the ones I could choose from. 

 And I finally landed on one that makes perfect fit, the Hermeneutic code or also known as the Enigma Code.  This theory is all about creating mystery and keeping the audience guessing by slowly revealing information. It’s often used in thrillers and psychological dramas. Since my film is all about suspense, mystery, and slowly revealing key details, the Enigma Code is going to play a huge role in how I tell my story.  Instead of giving everything away at once, it introduces little pieces of the puzzle and forces the audience to put them together. That’s exactly the effect I want for my opening. My main character, Joseph, is stuck in a reality where things feel off, he's a famous actor, so why is he getting ignored? Why are people talking about him right to his face? They won’t know why he’s being ignored or why details of his day keep shifting. Instead, they’ll get subtle hints, small visual clues to later in the end suggest something tragic has happened but still not reveal what it is. 

 A great example of the Enigma Code in action is The Sixth Sense (1999). Throughout the film, we see little hints that something isn’t quite right, like the way people react (or don’t react) to Malcolm. The audience doesn’t fully understand why until the big reveal at the end. That slow build up of mystery is exactly what I’m aiming for.

To make the Enigma Code work visually in my film, I’m going to use some specific thriller techniques. For instance, Close ups of Joseph's face when getting closer to finding out the truth.  I want to make sure my film doesn’t just tell a story but makes the audience feel Joseph’s confusion and panic. They’ll be picking up clues alongside him, trying to figure out what’s happening before the big reveal finally clicks into place. I'm so excited to make this happen!

Source:
1. https://media-studies.com/action-enigma-codes/

Movie Opening Storyboard

For the past week, I’ve been working on my storyboard for my film opening, and I wanted to share the process of how I went from brainstorming ideas to finally laying out my shots.

Step 1: Brainstorming

Before I even picked up a pencil to sketch my storyboard, I had to get all my ideas in order. That’s where brainstorming came in. I needed to break down every part of my story, who my character is, what he feels, the themes I wanted to explore, and how the setting would help tell the story. Without this stage, my storyboard would’ve been all over the place. I started by defining Joseph, my protagonist, and how his experiences shape the plot. I asked myself questions that would help me develop my story more clear and have purpose.  

All of this brainstorming came from a course online I had from a long time ago, I decided to take advantage of it and use it to develop my script and storyboard. This brainstorming process kept my storyboard focused and intentional, ensuring I could visually tell the story in the most effective way with a clear purpose.

 https://www.domestika.org/courses/987

Step 2: Starting my Storyboard

After that, I jumped into the storyboard. At first, it was just rough sketches to visualize the shots I had planned. It also helped me stay on track with the pacing. For example, I knew I wanted the flashback of headlights and screeching tires to feel sudden and jarring, so I made sure the shots leading up to it built that tension. It was all about setting the tone and making sure the audience felt Joseph’s confusion. Creating the storyboard also made me think a lot about transitions. For example, when Joseph walks outside, I wanted it to feel like he’s stepping out of the reality he knows, only to return to it again to enhance the loop effect I was going for, with everything seeming the same yet slightly off. The storyboard allowed me to plan how the shots would flow from one to another. I can’t stress enough how helpful the storyboard was in keeping me organized. It allowed me to visualize the entire film opening before I even started shooting. I can't draw at all so please don't mind my sketches! 

Film opening reveal!!!

Inspiration:  

The time has finally come... I am revealing my film opening idea! Before I do I need to say how finding a story that I wanted to stick to and pursue was kind of a struggle. At first I went through so many ideas, this is a really unique project I couldn't just decide on one, but when I did I ran into a few problems. At first I wanted to do a crazy ex story all the way in Vegas, after thinking about it, the idea made no sense. Plus, it involved stalking which was something we were told we're not allowed to do for the sake of everyone, after that I wanted to do a story in the woods of a murder. Something that has been done so many times it was going to be boring and lack creativity. Looking back, I'm thankful for those obstacles in the way because they ultimately led me to come up with the current idea I have. I mainly got inspiration from my dad for this idea, he used to be a writer not professionally, just for fun. He showed me a short story he wrote about a man who doesn't realize he's dead, the entire time he is doing day to day activities until another character helps him realize he's been dead. I decided to modify it into a more modern idea, and make it with my ideas instead. After talking about it with my teacher we both decided this was it, we found "The One". Now, the time we have all been waiting for!

Plot of the opening:

The film opens with Joseph, a famous musician and actor, going about his normal routine. But things are…off. People aren't acknowledging him, conversations happen around him but no one talks to him, and he just feels disconnected. It's like he's invisible. There's a scene in a coffee shop, for example, where he tries to order a drink, and the barista completely ignores him, but then chats with another customer about him. It's a subtle way of showing something is happening beyond the viewer's control. Combined with these present day scenes are quick flashes of Joseph's confusing past. These memories are fragmented and distorted, giving the audience the same sense of confusion that Joseph is experiencing. They hint at a tragic event, but the details are hazy and unclear.  But the images slip away before he can make sense of them. He shakes it off, just a bad morning. Then, something shifts.  He blinks and suddenly, he’s back at the start of his morning. Same walk, same people, same coffee shop. But small details have changed, the barista is now having the same conversation but with a whole different customer, a magazine cover appears that wasn’t there before. It’s not déjà vu, it’s something worse. And the more he notices, the harder it is to ignore. That's when everything clicks into place. All the strange interactions, the missing pieces of his memory… Joseph stares at his reflection in the coffee shop window, his expression filled with dread as if he finally senses something is deeply wrong.. He's dead. 

The Title:

When thinking of a tittle I want to do I unfortunately still have no idea, I want something that feels unique but also captures the eerie, in between state Joseph is stuck in. It has to hint at his presence, his fractured memories, and the mystery surrounding his existence. I went through a bunch of ideas, some were too boring, others felt like they belonged to a completely different movie. But then I landed on Interlude , and something about it just clicked. It perfectly captures the idea of something lingering even after it's gone. It suggests a pause between life and death, a space he's stuck in. It’s simple, and just vague enough to make people curious. I think this might be the one, but I'm still not going to settle on it. 

Group Meeting Reflection

I am back with the first blog of week three, time really does move fast! In today's blog I am discussing the group meeting I had in class yesterday with some of my peers. They include: Wyatt, Kailen, Amparo, Jayden and Luis. When we were first assigned into our groups, everyone was a little intimidated and shy to share their ideas, but once we started to open up little by little, everyone was spitting out some of the most creative stories and ideas I've ever heard. For instance, Luis wanted to do a zombie psychological thriller which I found really intriguing and different. Everyone's film idea fell under the "thriller/drama" genre, which was a perfect way for me to get more ideas on how I wanted to develop my story and get help. In the end it was super beneficial as all of us wrote all the feedback we got back and gave each other some tips on what to change.

Wyatt-

First off was Wyatt, his story really caught my attention because it was based on a “gut feeling,” which I thought was such an interesting way to build suspense. We had some similar ideas on how we wanted to bring our stories to life, we both wanted to do a first person point of view of the main character, blending dialogue with inner thoughts to narrate the story.  His story leans into thriller and mystery, kind of inspired by The Truman Show, with something bad happening, though he hasn’t fully decided on the exact plot yet. The way first person POV puts the audience inside the protagonist’s head makes them feel more connected in a way to the character causing them to feel empathy, or a bond towards them, which is exactly the kind of effect I want to achieve in my own story.  Even though his idea isn’t fully formed yet, the direction he’s going in is super cool, and I’m excited to see how he develops it!

Here is his blog- https://myaiceblog.blogspot.com/

Jayden-

To be honest I always thought Jayden was one of the coolest people in the class, he always recommends such unique pieces that are something I would never look at. But the way he is so passionate about what he brings automatically makes me want to check it out to see if I can enjoy it as well. When I was partnered up with him I knew right away he was going to give me really great feedback and tips and that his story would probably be bomb, and I was right. Jayden's film idea was inspired by the movie “Love exposure” his film opening is about a little girl who tragically looses her mother, this hits her hard and so does it to her dad. The story unfolds to be darker as unfortunately the dad decides to move into "cultish" like town, as the girl refuses he begins abusing her. This leads to the girl to rebel and start worshipping herself instead of the usual religion practices she sees others around her do. I won't reveal more about this psychological drama, you guys can also experience the story and find out more by the creator himself !

https://jdaicemedia.blogspot.com/

Amparo-

Amparo’s idea is super creative, I love how she’s blending the chaotic energy of Project X (her movie inspiration) with a mystery thriller twist. A group of girls at a party as the main focus already sets up an exciting and dynamic setting, but adding a layer of suspense makes it even more interesting. The whole idea of something going wrong during the night and having to piece together what happened through different perspectives is such a smart way to keep the audience engaged. This was actually suggested by Wyatt in our feedback process, when she told us she was stuck on what to do, we all jumped in to give her ideas but his was the one we all agreed on that was the most fun to include.  The plan is for the characters to figure out what happened by gathering footage from different perspectives at the party, this can be through videos, photos, Polaroids, and whatever else people captured that night. The amount of props that are going to be included is going to be really cool to see and how she makes them too. Overall, I think her idea has a lot of potential, and I can already imagine how fun and suspenseful it would be to watch!

https://ampimj.blogspot.com/

Kailen -

Kailen’s idea for a coming-of-age mystery is really unique and different from everyone's ideas in the group. At first, she was feeling uncertain about what direction to take, but as a group, we were able to brainstorm and narrow down the best option for her. Her plot revolves around a girl who’s just going about her day until one of her friends shows up with a photo from a party the night before, accusing her of doing something bad. The girl has no memory of what happened and doesn’t even know why she’s being framed. The whole idea of trying to clear her name while figuring out who’s behind it and why adds a lot of suspense and emotional depth to the story. I love how it mixes personal conflict with mystery, and it’s definitely a plot that would keep people hooked. It’s been really exciting to help her figure out how to bring this idea to life! Although she has no inspiration or guide I know her film is going to inspire others when producing a great film.

https://astudentsdayblog.blogspot.com/

Luis -

Luis is very creative when it comes to expressing his ideas in an assignment, his old projects can definitely confirm that and I know this one did for sure. Who thinks about making a psychological thriller on zombies?? Instead of focusing on the usual survival movie against zombies, his idea explores a whole new side by making the humans themselves the real threat. In this dystopian world, while zombies are still lurking, the people who remain are turning on each other, creating a very disordered atmosphere of distrust and chaos. It’s very cool how he found a way to include psychological thriller elements into the typical zombie movie. What I really love about this idea is how it dives  into the breakdown of society and explores how desperation can drive humans to do the unthinkable. I’m excited to see how this concept unfolds on screen with his inspiration from World War Z.

https://lmvasquezjr.blogspot.com/

How this helped me with my film-

After getting some feedback from my group, I’ve definitely made some progress in developing my story. They suggested that I check out two movies: Soul and The Sixth Sense, both of which deal with the afterlife in really unique ways. Soul (2020) is a heartwarming cute animated movie that explores life, death, and purpose, with a fun twist on the afterlife. It’s all about finding meaning in life, even after it's over. On the other hand, The Sixth Sense (1999) has that eerie psychological vibe, focusing on a young boy who sees ghosts and deals with his own understanding of life and death. These films have given me a lot of inspiration for my own story, especially when it comes to how I want to tackle themes of life, death, and what comes after. As I start working on my storyboard and script, I’m excited to bring those ideas into my film. I am not going to reveal my movie opening idea just yet, so stay tuned for the next blog post where I do!

Parts of a thriller film

  Thriller films broken apart:

Hey everyone! This time, I’m looking at some of the technical conventions that make thrillers so interesting. As I go deeper into research, I’m realizing that every tiny choice, from camera angles to lighting, plays a huge role in building suspense. So, I'm going to break down some of the key techniques used in thrillers and how they’re going to help shape my film!

1. Dutch Angles

Also called the canted angle, this is when the camera is tilted to create a sense of unease and panic. Directors use this to make the audience feel as off balance as the characters. A great example is in films  when the camera tilts during moments of paranoia and betrayal. The disoriented feeling adds tension, which is exactly what I want in my film. Since my project focuses on tension and confusion, I could use this technique in a key moment where my protagonist starts losing control or realizes something is wrong.

2. Extreme Close-Ups

This is one of my favorite techniques because it forces the audience to focus on something specific, whether it’s a person’s eyes, an object, or a small detail that hints at something bigger. One of the best uses of this is where extreme close-ups  reveal the emotional confusion such as, a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty of characters while also keeping the audience on edge. I want to use this technique to show my character’s emotions clearer and show paranoia. The extreme close up brings you into their mind, making you question their every move. It’s that feeling of discomfort, like you're too close to the action, that makes the genre work. For a movie that’s all about building tension, using extreme close-ups can make each scene feel more intimate and haunting. 

3. Location

Originally, I thought my trip to Vegas would inspire my project, but I quickly realized it wasn’t what I was looking for. The environment there didn’t match the vision I had in mind, and instead of feeling inspired, I felt disconnected. Something about home kept pulling me back, it felt more fitting for the kind of story I wanted to tell. That experience made me rethink how important setting is for creating the right tone, and it helped me narrow my focus to locations that actually enhance my film’s atmosphere rather than just looking cool on camera. Location becomes more than just a setting, it shapes the entire emotional impact of the story. I’ve noticed how a particular place can change the mood of the entire film, even before the plot fully unfolds. For instance, a secluded cabin in the woods can instantly create tension, as the eerie atmosphere leads to the feeling of isolation and suspense. On the other hand, a warm, inviting town can bring feelings of love and nostalgia, making the audience connect emotionally with the characters. It’s all about finding a location that matches the vibe of the story and deepens the connection between the audience and the narrative.

4. Long Tracking Shots

These shots are great for making the audience feel like they’re right there with the character. One of  the most known purpose of long tracking shots are following characters through chaotic environments, making everything feel more intense. I want to use this technique to emphasize my character’s isolation, maybe a slow, steady tracking shot of them walking alone and making the audience feel like something (or someone) is lurking just out of sight. Long tracking shots are often used to create a feeling of being watched or followed. This technique works well in thrillers because it gives the illusion that something is happening just outside of view. It can also help to build a slow moving tension, making the audience anticipate what will happen next. 

5. Low Key Lighting

This one is a thriller must. Shadows, silhouettes, and dim lighting make scenes feel mysterious and tense. I love how this technique can shift the mood of a scene, and I want to use it to heighten my protagonist’s paranoia. A dimly lit bedroom, a single flickering lamp, and shadows stretching across the walls, all of these are examples that could add to the unease and suspense I want to build. Lighting plays a huge role in thrillers, and low key lighting is one of the most effective ways to create mood and tension. Using shadows, darkness, and contrast can make scenes feel more ominous, making the audience uncertain about what might be hiding in the background. It’s a subtle but powerful way to enhance suspense, and I plan to use this to make my scenes feel more dramatic and intense.

6. Music and Sound

When it comes to thrillers, music and sound are everything. It's not just about throwing in some background noise to fill space, it’s about using sound to mess with your head and make you feel things you didn’t expect. In a thriller, the music and sound work to heighten the tension and make the audience feel every moment of anxiety, fear, and suspense. In thrillers, music tends to be eerie and low-key, slowly building up as the tension rises. The slow, creeping strings or a deep bass can let you know something's off without saying a word. Sometimes, the quietest sounds can freak you out the most, because they leave you waiting for something to happen. Then there’s the sound design, which is just as important. The little things, like the creak of a door, footsteps echoing through an empty hall, or the rustling of leaves outside a window, can turn a normal moment into something unsettling. For my thriller project, I’m realizing just how much these sounds will shape the mood. I want the music to add to the anxiety, so the audience can feel every twist and turn. In a thriller, it’s all about using sound to create that sense of dread and anticipation, to make you feel what’s coming, even before you know it’s coming.

This video really helped me grip the concept of sound in a thriller movie, it gave me the basics and run down on how to master it. 

How This Helps My Film

Doing this research is making me realize just how much thought goes into creating suspense. It’s not just about what happens in the story, but how it’s shown. The way I use camera angles, lighting, and focus can completely change the way my audience experiences my film. Since my project blends psychological drama with thriller elements, I want to make sure every scene has that edgy tension. Whether it’s through extreme close-ups showing my character’s emotions or a slow tracking shot making the audience feel like they’re right there with them, I want to use everything I’ve learned to make my film as engaging as possible. I still have more research to do, but I’m excited to start incorporating these ideas into my storyboard. Can’t wait to share more soon!

Sources: 

- slideshow/camera-shots-and-angles-for-a-horror-and-thriller-film

- https://glidegear.net/blogs/news/why-close-up-shots-are-so-powerful-in-movies

- https://creatorlens.beazy.co/p/the-importance-of-location-in-storytelling

- https://windsorgirls.weebly.com

- https://theasc.com/articles/terror-through-lighting

Sticking to a Schedule: My Game Plan for This Project

Making a timeline early on is key to actually finishing a big project without last minute panic. So, before I dive into filming and editing, I figured it would be smart to lay out my plan for the next few weeks. I want to make sure I stay on top of everything and don’t leave things until the last minute because let’s be real, that never ends well. Here’s what the next several weeks are looking like for me:

Week Three (2/10-2/16) – Laying the Foundation

This is the week where I set everything in motion. I’ll be making four blog posts:

• A reflection post about our first group meeting, in my case, solo meet.

• A research post on a media theory I want to incorporate into my project.

• A post summarizing my project idea and overall vision.

• A post that includes either my script or storyboard (whichever I complete first).

This week is all about getting my ideas down, making sure I have a solid plan to work with, and figuring out how to apply film theory to my own work.

Week Four (2/17-2/23) – Planning the Details

Now that I have my overall concept, it’s time to focus on the smaller (but super important) details:

• A post dedicated to character development, this helps me and the audience envision the story more clearly to the motives behind my characters and their backstory.

• Two posts focusing on mise-en-scène elements like costumes, set design, props, and lighting.

• A post focusing on the audio side of my project.

This week is all about building the world of my film. I want to make sure every visual and sound choice adds something to the story, so I’ll be paying close attention to how all these elements work together.

Week Five (2/24-3/2) – Transitioning into Production

Things are starting to get real. This week, I’ll be balancing planning with actually filming:

• One final planning post of my choice.

• Three production posts, illustrating the filming process.

Since this will be my first time shooting for this project, I want to document the process and reflect on what’s working and what needs adjusting.

Week Six (3/3-3/9) – Full-On Production & Post-Production Begins

At this point, I should be deep into production and starting to shift into editing:

• One more production post.

• Two posts about the post-production process (most likely focused on editing).

• One research post for the first CCR (Creative Critical Reflection) question.

Editing is just as important as filming, so I want to make sure I take my time with it and really think about pacing, transitions, and the overall flow.

Week Seven (3/10-3/16) – Focusing on the CCR

This week is dedicated to research and preparation for my CCRs:

• Research for CCR question #2.

• Research for CCR question #3.

• Research for CCR question #4.

• A post discussing my CCR production ideas.

Since the CCR is a huge part of this project, I want to make sure I fully understand the questions and plan my responses ahead of time.

Week Eight (3/17-3/25) – Wrapping It All Up

This is the final stretch!! My focus will be on finalizing everything:

• A post about the production process of my CCRs.

• A post about the post-production of my CCRs.

• A final reflection on my project.

• A post with links to my CCRs and the finished film opening.

I’m planning to finish everything a little early so I have time to make adjustments if needed.

The goal is to stick to this timeline as closely as possible, but I know unexpected things might come up. If I run into any problems, I’ll adjust as needed while making sure I stay on track. I know this project is going to be a challenge, but I also know that if I stay organized, it’ll turn out exactly how I want it to and be very exciting and fun.

Let’s do this!!

Exploring Thriller Credit Sequences

Lately I’ve been researching different credit sequences, especially in the thriller genre. Opening credits set the tone for a movie, and some of the best ones pull the audience right into the story before it even begins. One that really stuck with me is the opening of Se7en (1995). I mentioned this one in my last blog because it is the perfect opening to a thriller movie. I love how eerie and unsettling it is, the quick cuts, the scratchy handwritten text, and the creepy close-ups of disturbing images. It’s not just credits, it’s a whole experience that makes you feel uneasy before you even meet the characters or the plot of the story. After watching it, I knew I wanted to find more openings like this to study for my own project. So, I went on a hunt for thriller credit sequences, I asked friends and family to see their favorites and here are three that stood out to me:

1. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011) 

This opening completely caught me off guard. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo opens with an intense, almost nightmarish sequence that looks like something straight out of a dark, twisted dream. It’s a collage of black, liquid-like figures melting, and breaking apart. Hands reaching, faces screaming, and mechanical pieces falling apart. The entire thing is fast, aggressive, and almost overwhelming. Credits themselves emerge from the chaos, blending into the visuals like they’re part of the nightmare. What I love about this sequence is how it doesn’t tell you exactly what’s happening, but it makes you feel the themes of the film: violence, trauma, revenge. It’s bold, unsettling, and unforgettable.

2. Zodiac (2007) – 

Unlike The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Zodiac takes a much more subtle but equally eerie approach to its opening credits. It is in the late ‘60s, the sequence starts with a quiet, seemingly normal view of a suburban neighborhood on the Fourth of July. But instead of feeling warm or nostalgic, there’s this weird vibe, like something bad is about to happen. The credits appear in a simple, vintage-style font, reflecting the time period, but they slowly fade in and out in a way that almost makes them feel ghostly. Then, as we follow a couple driving to a secluded area, the suspense keeps building. The slow pacing, the long takes, and the eerie silence all work together to make the audience uncomfortable before the Zodiac killer even appears. I love how this opening doesn’t need flashy editing or loud music to create tension, it relies purely on atmosphere.

Zodiac (2007)

3. Cape Fear (1991) – 

This movie opening immediately caught my attention because it feels like an old-school thriller but with a darker, more dramatic touch. Cape Fear opens with a mix of shadowy water reflections and extreme close-ups of an eye, creating an eerie, distorted effect. The color palette is deep reds and blacks, making everything feel intense and dangerous. The music especially creates a suspenseful feel, making it clear that something sinister is lurking beneath the surface. The credits appear in a bold, sharp font, standing out against the dark visuals. What I love about this sequence is how it feels both cinematic and unsettling at the same time, like the movie is warning us that we’re about to witness something disturbing.

Cape Fear (1991)

How This Inspires My Own Project:

Watching these openings made me think a lot about how I want to introduce my own film. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo showed me how powerful abstract visuals can be in setting the tone, while Zodiac reminded me that sometimes, slow and eerie pacing can be just as effective as fast cuts. Cape Fear made me think about how color, music, and font choices can completely shift the mood of a film before it even starts. Now, I’m thinking about how I can apply these ideas to my own opening. Do I want it to be unsettling like Cape Fear? Or slow and eerie like Zodiac? Maybe even a mix of both? I still have a lot to figure out, but I love diving into all these different styles and seeing what works best. I’ll keep researching and experimenting, and hopefully, I can create a credit sequence that pulls the audience in just like these did.

Openings research

Hey everyone! So, choosing the right genre for my film was a bit of a debate. At first, I was stuck between drama and thriller, both are genres that really passionate me and let me get creative with storytelling. Drama is all about deep emotions and personal struggles, while thrillers keep you on edge, waiting for the next big twist. I love both, but after thinking it through, I realized thriller is the way to go. There’s something about the suspense, the tension, and the way it keeps audiences hooked that really excites me. I want my film to grab attention right from the start and make people feel like they have to keep watching. To get a better idea of what makes a thriller opening stand out, I decided to analyze three different films. I looked at how they introduce the story, build suspense, and set the tone for what’s coming next.

1. A Quiet Place (2018) – Directed by John Krasinski

This movie wastes no time pulling you in. The opening scene is completely silent, except for soft whispers and the sound of footsteps. Right away, you can tell that sound is dangerous in this world, and the tension is already there. The setting: a deserted town with empty shelves and scattered belongings, tells us everything we need to know without a single line of dialogue. The use of close-ups on the characters’ faces makes their fear feel real, and the slow, careful movements build suspense. Then, just when you start to settle into the scene, a sudden, tragic moment changes everything. This is a perfect example of how a thriller should grab the audience immediately and make them desperate to know what happens next. I really like this example because it’s what I want to do with my film and it inspired me to get the idea that I have for it.

2. Gone Girl (2014) – Directed by David Fincher

This opening is so simple yet so unsettling. It starts with a soft, calm voiceover as we see a husband lovingly stroke his wife’s hair. At first, it feels like a normal romantic moment, but then the dialogue takes a dark turn. He talks about wanting to “crack open her skull and see what’s inside,” and suddenly, the whole tone shifts. The music is eerie but quiet, the lighting is cold, and the wife’s expression is unreadable. Right away, it makes the audience question what’s really going on in this marriage. That’s what I love about thriller openings, they don’t need action or jump scares to create suspense. Sometimes, just a simple moment can feel deeply disturbing when done right.

3. Se7en (1995) – Directed by David Fincher

This movie was actually recommended to me by my dad, when I told him I was doing research on thriller movies he told me straight away to watch this one. The opening credits of Se7en are one of the most disturbing yet fascinating introductions in a thriller. Instead of a simple title sequence, I was thrown into the mind of the killer, watching as he obsessively puts together notebooks filled with unsettling images, scratched-out writing, and eerie photographs. The grainy, flickering visuals and quick, jarring cuts make everything feel chaotic and sinister, while the unsettling music only adds to the unease. What makes this opening so effective is that it doesn’t give away too much but still leaves you uncomfortable and wanting more. It makes you question who this person is and what they’re planning. This is a perfect example of how a thriller can immediately set the tone while still incorporating the credits. It’s funny how it was recommended as a suggestion but ending up being my favorite and I really learned a lot from it. 

What I Learned for My Own Film:

Watching these openings made me realize how important tone and atmosphere are in a thriller. It’s not just about what’s happening, it’s about how it’s shown. Silence, music, lighting, and camera angles all play a huge role in creating suspense. For my own film, I want to make sure my opening immediately pulls people in and makes them feel like something big is about to happen. I still have a lot to figure out, but I’m excited to take inspiration from these movies and build something unique.

Side note: All this research I've been doing really makes me want to think about if I want to do something related with film in the future career wise. I’m really enjoying all these steps I have to do just to make a 2 minute movie opening, I can’t imagine how I'm going to feel once I start filming. 

Picking The Genres

Hi again!! Picking the right genre is a big decision, and after thinking about it, drama and thriller feel like the best choice. Both give me the freedom to be really creative, whether it’s through strong emotions, unexpected twists, or moments that keep the audience wanting more. I love the idea of knowing I can have the power to express my love for filmmaking through my favorite genres and make people feel what I do through my own projects. My goal is to create a story that isn’t just fun to watch but also keeps people thinking about it even after it ends.

For Drama, I know the key is to really dive deep into the emotions and relationships between characters, it’s all about capturing the personal conflicts that make the characters relatable and keep the audience engaged. I’ve learned that successful drama films really focus on emotional depth, making the audience connect with the characters on a personal level. This means I’ll need to pay attention to body language, dialogue, and the internal struggles of the protagonist. A great example of this is the movie 'Waves' (2019) by Trey Edward Shults, this movie portrays two different relationships off a pair of siblings after a great tragic event. The first sibling Tyler, "ruins" his relationship with his personal struggles and the consequences of toxic masculinity. It follows the emotional journey of the toxic couple that show "love" in a very unhealthy way. Meanwhile, the second half of the movie shifts focus to Emily's perspective, showing her process of healing and finding a way to move forward after the tragedy. In her relationship she manages to paint a picture to the audience of what "slow and gentle" love looks like. Both relationships are a way for viewers to connect with the characters involved and feel for them, they also portray the different types of love people that age experience and make audiences know they are not alone. I remember when I watched this movie for the first time it really impacted me and I found myself connecting with certain characters.

On the other hand, in the Thriller side, the goal is to create tension and suspense that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. Thrillers often involve high stakes, and the story builds up to moments of shock or fear. From my research, I’ve learned that the thriller genre relies on plot twists, and heavy atmosphere to build suspense. According to actfourscreenplays.com the audience should always feel like something is about to happen, even if it’s not clear when or how. That’s exactly what I want for my project, something that draws people in and keeps them hooked. I take great inspiration from thriller horror movies, I think they are the perfect example of movies that keep me chasing for more. I do not necessarily want to include horror in my film though, I want to mix thriller with other elements I'm not quite sure of yet. An example of a successful thriller movie in my opinion is 'A Quiet Place: Day One" (2024) directed by Michael Sarnoski. It is not necessarily scary but it keeps viewers intrigued the whole time  anticipating to know what happens next. The film builds suspense with its silent world, where every small noise feels dangerous. The dark, shadowy lighting creates tension, making audiences feel the characters' fear. The camera angles, like close-ups of characters' expressions, make emotions feel real and captivating.

Throughout this week I want to go ahead and keep researching more Drama and Thriller movies, I want to look at them with a different perspective and focus more on mise-en-scène elements. For instance, different shots, lighting, color schemes and pacing to get some idea on how I want to incorporate them into my film.