Final Cut of Penultimate

 

CCR: Question 4...

How did you integrate technologies – software, hardware and online – in this project?

The BlackmagicCamera app on my iPhone became the focal point of our film. Easy to use and camera quality were balanced by this app.   More creative control over the shots was made possible by the app's features, which included manual focus control and brightness modifications.   Stability was ensured by the use of a tripod, particularly in still shots such as the opening sequence and chessboard close-ups.

We edited in post-production using a school app. As seen in the pursuit scene, we discovered how to use its characteristics to improve the narrative by using music to increase the tension and highlight humorous moments. Our ability to use the program to create the title cards with "Still in Action Presents: Penultimate" and the end credits showed off our graphic design skills. Exploring silent cinema techniques and generating ideas for our visual storytelling approach—particularly in terms of expressing emotions and narrative through movements and facial expressions—were greatly helped by the internet. In order to extend its reach and achieve the goal of audience interaction for our project, the finished video will be posted on YouTube.

CCR: Question 3...

How did your production skills develop throughout this project?

My cinematography skills were put to the test in this production. I gained hands-on experience in shots setup, making the most of the outside environment. For example, the scene from 0:08 to 0:12, where the camera focuses on the chessboard and the players' hands, demonstrates a purposeful use of low viewpoint and frame to emphasize the game's strategy and intensity. Working in natural light taught me how to respond to changing situations. For example, the pursuit sequence's lighting change demanded adjusting brightness and camera settings. Besides demonstrating playing with visual methods, the use of black and white during the crime sequence at 0:18–0:25 gives a dramatic effect and highlights the robber's movements.

Our iPhone's camera's limitations encouraged creativity.   By experimenting with various filming settings and using fundamental camera motions like tilting and panning to produce dynamic shots, especially during the pursuit scene, we discovered how to make the most of it. The importance of adjusting to the resources at hand and coming up with creative solutions to technological problems was made clear by this experience.

CCR: Question 2...

I discuss our film 'Penultimate' from the perspective of a cinematographer in this video, and I respond to the question, "How does your product engage with audiences and how would it be distributed as a real media text?"

CCR: Question 1...

How does your product use or challenge conventions and how does it represent social groups or issues?

Our unspoken film, "Penultimate," intentionally brings back a traditional cinematic style in contrast to the current trend of dialogue-heavy movies. By allowing the audience to actively participate in creating meaning, this decision highlights the impact of visual storytelling. The lack of dialogue creates a really broad feeling that cuts beyond linguistic boundaries. For instance, without a single word being said, the opening scene, which introduces the two players through a confusing close-up gradually coming into focus, captures the viewer's attention right away.

The story of the film, which focuses on a chess game that is interrupted, addresses the idea of unexpected interruptions in every day life.   The "robber" character's interruption of the game's seeming calm serves as a metaphor for how unexpected events might change our path.   The feeling of aims being interrupted by outside factors is a universal problem that goes beyond age, culture, and background, and it relates to a wide range of social experiences. This sensation of disturbance is visually reinforced by the robber's dark clothing and hidden face, which contrast with the light surroundings.

Time To Get Ready!

The CCR videos from the previous year have been as both a source of inspiration and direction for me as I start my own CCR. Particularly noteworthy are two projects: Lantern Shark Productions and Yheketen's Film Adventures.

I was impressed with Yheketen's Film Adventures because of its innovative and creative way to answering the earlier questions.   I've been inspired to think creatively and explore new possibilities in my own work by the creative application of special effects and storytelling methods.   Studying their film has taught me the importance of being unique and allowing my creativity to grow and develop.  

I was impressed by Lantern Shark Productions' professionalism and meticulousness. Their skillfully written script, and meticulous editing set the bar for my own CCR. I've learned a lot about the value of structure, preparation, and clear communication in a filmmaking team from studying their work.

My goal is to produce a breathtakingly beautiful and emotionally powerful CCR by taking inspiration from these outstanding members.   I'm determined to use my imagination to the fullest and create a superior end result that captures my progress.

CCR Journey: Preparation

I faced the task of turning a straightforward idea into an eye-catching film as the project's cinematographer. Equipped with a smartphone and an ardent interest in narrative, I set out on a path involving technological investigation and artistic expression.   It's time for me to use my imagination now.

How does your product use or challenge conventions and how does it represent social groups or issues?

- Using the silent film format and presenting the story through music and visual storytelling. The lack of dialogue emphasizes active audience engagement and enables a more timeless and global interpretation that cuts beyond dialect boundaries, enabling anyone to understand the story however they see fit. 

How does your product engage with audiences and how would it be distributed as a real media text?

- With its action and comedy genre, our film draws in viewers with its visual actions.   Online streaming platforms such as YouTube would offer easy accessibility and a broad audience.

How did your production skills develop throughout this project?

- I really improved my cinematography skills during the production. I developed a stronger comprehension of composition, lighting, and camera angles. I gained experience adjusting to the limitations of our equipment and experimenting with various visual methods. 

How did you incorporate hardware, software, and the internet into this project?

- To make our video come to life, we used just a few equipment.   We used an iPhone as our main camera. We used a tripod to guarantee stability and shots that looked professional. Also the program we used to record was called BlackmagicCamera, and it was really easy to use. 

As you can see i gave an idea where to start my CCR, now i only need to present it on a original and unique way.

A Cinematographer's Touch

Even though our film's shooting was over, my work as a cinematographer wasn't finished yet. There were further chances to contribute to the finished product during the post-production stage. Together with the editor, I worked to improve the general look and atmosphere of the film. To improve the mood and vibe of every scene, we tried out several color schemes and grading methods. I made sure the finished picture matched the director's vision by offering suggestions on the ideal color contrast and saturation. 

Furthermore, I think my criticism of what music to use in particular instances was significant. After all, the scene-specific music change was crucial since it gave the audience a greater chance to relate. I also offered suggestions for scene transitions, that I believed was a small contribution but by sharing my insights into the visual language of the film, I helped to shape the final cut.