In preparation for the pitch, Sylvia edited the test shots we took on Wednesday, to mimic the final look we are after. This included colour grading it, changing the temperature, adding slow motion effects on some movements, and putting an addition of background music. On D-day, I presented with some anecdotal comments from Sylvia.

With the help of a slide containing image of the dress, storyboard, and our edited test shots, I think we managed to pitch our film idea quite clearly. I have to be honest, in the beginning, I was a bit intimidated and wanted to try avoid mentioning to the panel that we want to explore the topic of “feminism” due to the loaded meaning of the word. We decided to just go through with it, hoping for the best. The panel seemed to like our pitch, although there were conflicting commentaries regarding some of the symbolisms we want to use in the film.

Christina (I think) mentioned on how hard it would be to find stock footage, but Robin disagreed. This gave me hope to pursue our original plan of using a panther to symbolise the evolution of the girl.

To symbolise being constraint my societal values, we want to use a red string, circling and tied around the girl and the dress. Nick commented on how he didn’t really see the point of using a red string, recommending the use of a more literal “red cage” to draw comparison with the panther imagery. I quite see Nick’s point, but using the string gives more of a depth to our film I think, letting the audience ponder on the interpretation of the symbolisms.

During this discussion, the panelists and some classmates also offered more constructive criticism and ideas, such as a forest location and shooting the first part of the film outdoors rather than in studio. I mentally wrote everything down in my head so that Sylvia and I could discuss it further.

Moving forward, I feel quite nervous for all the things we still have to do. This includes finding a model, finding a forest location, start shooting both indoors and outdoors, and editing. I’m feeling positive, though, and excited to embark on the production of our film.