Film and TV, reflection 1

Question 1. This semester I wish to improve on both aspects of film making (technical and producorial *thanks Paul*). I feel like I have not quite grasped the needed skills in order to work competently on a film set. Although I do believe that I do have a basic understanding of things like camera, sound and editing, I would really like to further my knowledge in the field. I have also loved writing and directing so I feel like if given the chance I will do what I need to do in order to hone my skills in such fields. In saying that I also wish to discover how far I can go with the skills that I have already acquired through this course and pass experiences. I believe this course will not so much teach me these things but give me the opportunity to explore them myself, with help from my peers and tutor. Hopefully by throwing myself into the deep end on a couple of occasions I will hone my already strong suits whilst working on my weaknesses.

Question 2. The lecture on screenwriting this week touched base on a lot of information that I had already received throughout my education thus far. However, there were a couple ideas that resonated with me and reaffirmed what I already knew. The section of the lecture focused on conflict was very important for me, especially in relation to a short film I believe. The idea of having a protagonist having a need and creating obstacles in which that they need to overcome in order to achieve their ultimate goal. This for me is the clearest aspect of screenwriting but sometimes the most difficult to achieve. Conflict is an essential aspect of screenwriting and films that adhere to this structure are often the most enjoyable. Jasmine’s tips on choosing an idea on how to discover on what you wish to write on were also very helpful. By examining films and television and working out which ideas resonate with you, I feel like you can get a better understanding of which way you wish to take you film.

Question 3. The week 2 reading “slogans for the screenwriters wall” gave me some insight in how to use motion rather than dialogue. For me this is an issue that in the past I have struggled with but have been trying to eradicate from my work. The idea of ‘showing, not telling” is sometimes not the easiest to achieve as it is not always applicable with the actors that you have chosen to use. The idea of having an actor acting out dialogue is not always easy, but can be a far more powerful tool to use in your film. It is important to give your audience credit and allow them to read between the lines or make assumptions for themselves rather than spelling everything out. By telling, the script can become diluted and to wordy, making the film almost seem dumb down. The use of pauses, or a gesture can be far more effective than an extra two lines of dialogue. I feel that this relates to me in the course not only as a writer but also as an aspiring director. This reading will effect how I will both cast the film and also direct it (if given the chance). Characters attitudes and facts can be shown through costume, make up or even mannerisms, rather than words.