Poster and Empire cover development

As regards to our ancillary texts we chose to design a poster and the front cover to an Empire magazine, that were both centered around our trailer. Before rushing into creating the design using the software photoshop, I decided to sketch my ideas on paper and annotate them according to colour, positioning of labels and any connotative meanings that I had decided to implement. This way I was able to make changes and go through several ideas before coming to the final conclusion.

I had designed more than one advertising poster to get a rough idea of what I would be working with, I believed the first design wasnt broad enough with the perspective, and the positioning of characters and the tagline could have been altered to create a bigger impact, thus I came to my second and final design, which I was pleased with. The imagine shown below my first design is my final concept for the advertising poster. In my design I came up with the idea of a city scape which represents the idea of there being a long road and the buildings along that road being the obstacles and challenges he has to face. The central image in the poster is the protagonist, facing the horizon head on, with two antagonists facing him, connoting that the character is prepared to take on the challenges ahead, knowing that there may be obstacles that come his way. Finally I used the concept of a sunrise, connoting the idea of there being a light at the end of the tunnel, showing that if he travels this path he will get what he desires in the end. These concepts will act as hints to the plotline and content of the film.
Unforunately due to technical limitations getting photo's of all of these ideas seemed improbable, so my idea developed. We as a group decided that the film would have been based upon a comic book, and the storyline is something which many would imagine to be that of a graphic novel. Thus I decided to draw the design, but keeping the same concept of him reaching a goal, but in a comic book style. Although to add impact I decided to use a photograph that we had previously taken of the main character, which added emphasis.

Above is the final concept for the poster, as you can see its quite similar to my actual sketch during the design proccess, but with a few changes that I think add impact and eye catching. Here we can see the protagonist facing slightly toward us, this again was to create specific impact that caught the audiences eye, arousing their interest. Another difference is a strange glow emitting from the protagonists hand, this not only connotes the idea of a sense of power, but it reveals that this hand plays a specific part in the plot, and may have major importance which again may arouse the interest of the audience. To add to the theme of "freedom" I decided to add birds gliding above the sun rise. I believe this connotes the idea of being free and above everything else, breaking the boundaries and being above everybody else. Towards the end of the production of my poster I decided to make the tagline 'Everything has an end' this idea reinforces the concept of the road, portraying the idea of the protagonist having sheer determination, ready to fight for his freedom.

The image above shows the concept for my Empire magazine design. I decided to pursue the idea of having a military briefing file, with the words 'Top secret' stamped across the file in a similar style to that of a stamp. The colour scheme would be that of an actual folder, making it stand out to the audience, but also connoting the idea of the protagonist having a higher level of importance, again catching the audiences attention. The whole theme of the magazine was centered around the typical military stamp idea, so I decided that the Empire logo itself looked like it had been stamped on, and faded to add specific impact on the cover as a whole, backing up the idea of it being top secret. With the central image, being the protagonist, he was positioned facing the audience, with his nano tech arm concealed behind his back, this connotes the idea of him hiding something, which again reinforces the idea of it being 'Top secret'. In most Empire Magazine posters we can see the central images face is clear and easy to, I decided to distort the face, making it darker, so we cannot figure out his identity, this once again backs up the 'Top secret' idea that I had originally implemented into my design.

The image above shows my final Empire Magazine cover. Everything is similar to my initial design, although I was not able to insert the 'Top secret' stamp because of us not being able to use specific sources due copywriting laws. Also the tagline was altered, this was to add impact, I believed having it short and snappy would be more effective, and aesthetically pleasing than a tagline that consumed alot of space and over threw everything else. The new tagline I believe matches with the theme of the top secret military briefing; 'Fight for your Freedom', this sounding quite similar to phrases used in propaganda during wars. Furthermore through adding several stamping effects to the text, it helped connote the idea, making it quite clear to the audience that the theme was centered around some sort of briefing, due to the colour and manipulation of the lettering. Through these symbols and colours I was able to use previously learned media techniques to successfully reinforce my concept successfully.

Using previous Empire Magazine covers as a reference, I tried to simulate similar conventions of the magazine, upon my own. I positioned the bar code in the corner similarly so it did not intrude with the featured articles, making the text clear and easy to spot. Furthermore I used a similar technique of colour coding which related to the theme of the magazine. For example in the magazine cover shown above, the colours white green and purple are used which portray the concept 0f a clown, and the colours used for the main villain in the featured movie. So to simulate a similar concept I used red, white and black to portray the concept of a military briefing, adding to the aesthetics and creativity of the cover, raising the audiences interest. Similarly I placed featured articles on my cover, and a flash in the corner to again add to the aesthetics and follow the conventions used specifically by the Empire magazine.

Evaluation.

The group’s main focus was to apply the conventions of the action genre. Through research and planning we came to the conclusion that due to constraints of budget and equipment explosions, chases and scenes using guns was not an option for our trailer, so we went ahead with what we had available and tried to simulate the conventions of the action genre. The main aspects of the action genre that we successfully applied were the type of camera editing techniques, sound effects, music and mise-en-scene. As we couldn’t do the most obvious, as previously mentioned, we put all our effort into researching the other important, yet simpler aspects of the action genre. Together as a group we found there to be conventions such as tense build ups, low angle shots which show power, and is a very important convention as regards to action, as we see most stereotypical villains or heroes to be portrayed in a powerful manner, with something as simple as a camera angle. A perfect example is the movie Ironman (2008) where the main villain, Obadiah Stane is from a low angle, displaying a sense of power. Along with this we found a lot of action based films to have heavier music, which creates a tense exciting atmosphere for the audience, another given effective technique used by the action genre. Within the editing we used a minimal amount of CGI (meaning computer-generated imagery), this was used towards the end for more of an effect.

With no budget and a lack of software we attempted to create an effect at the end of the trailer that would attract the audience, and in contemporary films CGI is becoming more of a familiar convention for action films, and is another aspect of the convention that pulls the audience in. One of the most important devices for our film and most action films is the mise-en-scene. In a vast amount of action films there is some kind of authority figure, and the mise-en-scene backs this up to help project this, a prime example of a film displaying this is the film Die Hard (1989) where the mise-en-scene supports the action genre due to the authority figures clothing, thus in our trailer we have aimed to mimic this affect to follow traditional action genre conventions.

With this we aimed to develop and explore aspects of the genre in more detail, such as connotative meanings, and certain editing techniques such as match on actions that generate certain affects which in turn help support the feature of connotative meanings. Fades and cuts are used traditionally to portray a change of scene in a trailer, we have aimed to develop this certain technique by exercising the fading technique within an actual scene. As the Mafioso don, Don DeVici, he is shown to be a corrupt and powerful character within the trailer, as he discusses a proposition with the protagonist there are fades as dialogue is being exchanged. This was employed to create a sense of tension within the scene, it adds emphasis to the fact that the protagonist is under pressure and is in danger, and this backed up towards the end of scene as the Mafioso don says “Get him boys” This negative command to harm the protagonist supports the technique of fading out during conversation. The tense build up and suspense is almost like a heartbeat for the final sentence in the scene, it creates dramatic effect for the audience and is a technique used to not only challenge the conventions, but to create certain connotative meaning in the trailer. To support this uncommonly used technique we can see from the movie District 9 (2009) that the effect of a heartbeat, with certain editing techniques, create the connotative meaning of suspense and danger.

Within most action based trailers, giving an insight to the plotline isn’t a commonly known convention, and so we aimed to challenge that and develop it in our own way. With a minimal amount of dialogue, passages of time and snippets of action, something almost like a synopsis visually is created which furthermore is a way we challenged the conventions of the action genre.

As a group we were aware of the importance and attention a protagonist receives not only from the audience, but the characters themselves. We aspired to create a protagonist that was unfamiliar, something uncommon that was more of an outcast than most others in the action genre. We designed the character to be more of a vigilante with a twist, rather than trying to solve a problem, and solve everybody else’s problems, we can see that the protagonist is more focused with his priorities, wanting to escape without harming or bringing down any form of villain. Rather the villains go after him, a slight twist to what is most commonly used in a vast amount of action movies. Thus we have aimed to create an unusual twist which may be appealing to the audience.

Within every film there is a specific representation of social groups, depending on the particular genre and varies largely as regards to this. As our trailer is the genre of action, we have aimed to follow certain representations that are commonly presented inside of this genre. Our film contains many authority figures that are represented in numerous ways, with certain differences that aim to challenge the representation and add a new perspective to them. The mafia is seen to be represented stereotypically as a menacing, cruel, manipulative and vicious group of individuals that dress in formal clothing. A popular example to help support this stereotype is The Godfather (1972) where we can evidently see Don Vito to be portrayed as quite a cruel and menacing character, furthermore he is shown to be Italian American, which in several parody’s, and gangster based movies the mafia is depicted in such a manner constantly. Thus with this in mind we attempted to reproduce this stereotype in our action trailer, where we see the character of the Don to be quite a menacing and cruel character, with a strong Italian American accent, which follows quite successfully the stereotype of the mafia viewed by the audience of today.

In addition to this frequently used stereotype, we incorporated another, but this time we aimed to provide it with a certain twist which isn’t commonly used by movie makers, therefore we used a commonly known authority which is regularly seen in film; the military. We as a society may see the military as an authority figure that protects humanity, and fights for freedom, reducing the chances of war and conflict as an end result by using a sufficient amount of force. And in the movie industry they are most commonly seen as strict, austere and emotionless figures that are straight to the point. As a group we wanted to put a particular twist on this view and simulate this particular authority figure to be the villain rather than a role model. We also aimed to incorporate the southern American accent, and irritable nature that can be heard regularly in the films that this particular authority figure is in. The movie The Hulk (2003) is a prime example which incorporates the rare usage of the corrupt military officer, as he aims to harm the protagonist, also the authority figures irritability and southern American accent is evident, backing up the commonly used stereotype. Using this stereotype we twisted the mentality of this military figure, to be corrupt and power hungry, as he desperately searches for the protagonist and the nanotech arm that was attached to him previously. This uncommon twist on a stereotype is an effective technique in terms of acquiring the audience’s attention and arousing their interest in the film, possibly raising certain questions, or giving them a new insight into another view point on the military, furthermore potentially creating a new stereotype in terms of the military. Assisting us in employing certain action conventions in our trailer to make it as effective and true to the genre as possible.

(Sam Elliot in The Hulk (2003) ) ( Thomas Gamble - Our film trailer, military figure)

With the trailer ancillary texts were an essential part of the process that successfully reflected the themes and genre of our movie. From previous Empire magazines and action movie posters such as Iron Man (2008) it is evident that not much is revealed to the audience, other than the protagonist , central characters, or closely related to our film; a power or gadget that the protagonist utilizes. We aimed to successfully achieve a connection between the film and the ancillary texts to the highest of our ability, using the software Photoshop to ensure we could create the poster and Empire which would successfully reflect the action tucked inside the movie, and the specific themes we focused on throughout the production of our trailer. To stay true to the genre of our trailer, it was necessary to incorporate certain aspects of the action genre into our ancillary texts to ensure it portrayed what we had created effectively.

For the empire magazine I specifically focused on the protagonist, and how mysterious he is revealed to be, this employs the concept of secrecy and having something to hide from others, which shows a glimpse of the action genre. More importantly is the nanotech arm that the protagonist has, as this is the main focus of not only the magazine but the trailer in general, it was crucial that it was focused on and edited in a manner that drew the attention of the audience. An ominous glow was added to emit a sense of power almost, and almost as a signal for the audience to look and arouse their interests, raising questions about purpose and any possible connotations as regards to the arm. The mystery and importance generated by the arm is similar again to Ironman (2008) as the Empire magazine cover shows the protagonists robotic armour, this mystery and use of gadgets is becoming more and more of a convention used within the action genre, due to the developments in CGI and the frequent use of it. One of the most important features is the protagonist’s stance being projected on the cover. We can see the protagonist raising his fist to his chest, clenching it as if getting prepared for conflict. This helps show the protagonists power, lack of fear, and sense of determination, a connotative meaning of taking everything as it comes just so he can reach his goal. Thus this unwavering stance effectively on the cover effectively displays the genre of action and the contents of the trailer. Although it is evident that the nano tech arm is covered, this implies the idea of secrecy, protection and ownership of the arm, subtly hinting to the audience that the protagonist has something he doesn’t want to share. These implied meanings draw the audience in raising questions that arouse an interest in the actual movie, thus successfully combined both the ancillary text and the trailer itself.

In conjunction with the Empire magazine the film poster was effectively produced to reflect the set themes and genre within the trailer. The contents of the poster show the protagonist to be standing at the end of a road with buildings running down it, with the sun beaming through at the end of the horizon. Next to, or on top of specific buildings the protagonist’s enemies are standing looking toward the protagonist, as he faces them and his back to the audience. The mise-en-scene in I used producing the poster shows the enemies to have some sort of weaponry, a prime example is the military lieutenant who has in his possession, a tank. In addition to this, we are shown the Don carrying a baseball over his shoulder, with his eye line directed toward the protagonist. A movie that similarly includes the mafia is Rock n Rolla (2008) and depicts the image of a male figure holding two guns, and with this we can see the link between weaponry and the action genre. However the group has aimed to associate certain aspects of our posters with hidden meanings and messages, to create a different yet effective poster that not only to create something different, but to attract the audience’s attention in a different way, a way in which they ask questions that arouse their interests in the actual film.

As a group we were aware that the institution that would promote and distribute our movie would have to be notorious for the distribution of action based movies, and more importantly ones similar to ours, as we believed particular institutions had a larger income after release than others. After thorough investigation into the film industry, I came to the conclusion that the most appropriate institution for the distribution of our film would be Warner Brothers, due to the large success with not only such action films such as Cradle 2 the grave, and Rock n Rolla, but also its gross income from the movie The Dark Knight (2008) who’s worldwide gross is currently $1,022,345,358 (Information gathered from (http://www.the-numbers.com/movies/2008/BATM2.php).

With this I believe our media product would be distributed successfully with Warner Brothers due to their overall experience with the action genre and their unique style and development of the action genre as time has progressed. A prime example is the movie Sherlock Holmes (2009) where the institution in question has used certain editing techniques, such as slow motion effects, and unique camera angles to not only create a traditional action film, but one which adds emphasis to these actions, which also successfully merges comedy into the experience for an improved sense of entertainment. As our movie strives to be slightly different from other action films with certain representations and implications, I believe Warner Brothers is largely similar with its unique editing styles, and challenging of the genre’s, thus deeming Warner Brothers the most appropriate and appealing institution to distribute our media product.

Another thing our group had to closely consider and discuss was the audience our product would attract and be suitable for, which came as quite a difficult task because of the content and who specifically we wanted to see it. Our film consists of a wide variety of action, but also one with deep meaning and a plotline that attracts the audience’s attention, compelling their interest in the final outcome. Thus we believe our film should be aimed at a wider audience, rather than a smaller one, this is because our film isn’t just to entertain, but to inform. The entertainment accumulated in the movie is not only entertaining for teens and above, but the fighting sequences may be quite entertaining for a younger audience from the ages of 10 – 13. With the action aside, the deep plot and relation to ethical ideas within the film may be appealing to an older audience, these deep seated issues that are around in today’s society may be something the audience can relate to and discuss making it a quite enjoyable experience for the mature. We believe our film is successfully in informing the audience, especially those of a younger generation certain moral teaching that are centred on certain topics. As a result we believe our film is best certified as a 12a, due to the wide range of content that varies, and how selective it is offering more variety to the audience. Consequently we needed to decide on how the film would be advertised, deciding that we wanted to attract as much attention as we possibly could.

I believed that a viral campaign best suited our film, the mystery and tension built up within the film would have a close relation to the viral campaign, arousing the audiences interest, raising discussions and debates about our trailer questioning its plotline and content. The film Cloverfield (2008) used its website virally to attract attention from its audience, a still frame of the Statue of Liberty was edited to show her head cut off with claw marks upon its back. This is a simple technique used that results in a larger impact, arousing interest and discussion about the viral, thus becoming infamous and creating controversy on the internet. With such a simplistic and yet effective technique at our disposal, I believed it was the best method as regards to advertising our film.

Overall to create our film trailer successfully, we needed to use the correct equipment and with not much at our disposal we used what we could to ensure we got as high a quality film as possible. Similar to other film makers we used cameras, tri-pods, editing software and props to create our film, although due to a lack of budget, and the schools resources being low, we had to make use of what was available to us. Even though our equipment was not as reliable and as respectable as the traditional film makers, we persevered and coped with any technically difficulties, and loss of quality that had arisen during the overall process. Even though we were limited we discovered new techniques to apply using the equipment, but also with the software the school had to offer. Through complete coincidence the group discovered a useful technique that did not occur to us. During the filming of the protagonist running through the woods, the camera was on a tilt, which soon reminded us of the dutch tilt. Thus we aimed to stylize that angle to our own, and we manipulated the cameras angle simulating a similar shot to that of the dutch tilt, something our group previously hadn’t considered, but realised was highly effective in terms of shooting this scene due to the impact we wanted it to have, which was to reveal the mise-en-scene with a sense of obscurity, which also at the same time portrayed a essence of power.

Similarly during the previous year of the media course our group was not aware of the software available in school, but thanks to further investigation and information offered we came across a program by the name of “Adobe after effects”. This software allows the users to edit film, adding animation, or special effects that other software was unable to deliver. Thus due to the genre and plot behind our film we decided use of CGI would result in a more successful looking trailer, because of the rise in CGI being a larger aspect of contemporary movies, especially from the genre of action, one in which being Iron man (2008) which uses a large amount of CGI due to its super hero plotline and fighting sequences. Our film has a similar approach as the protagonist acquires a nano-tech arm, something that wouldn’t occur in everyday life. Thus the idea of a laser beam being shot from the protagonists hand would be appropriate, not only to arouse the interest of the audience for entertainment purposes, but also to hint at the possibility of more abilities to be discovered attracting the audience’s attention and increasing their interest in going to see the film. With all this in mind I set about creating the laser scene with the help of the group. First of all we had to the film the clip, so we were able to edit it, thus we filmed in a location that we thought would not only be unproblematic in terms of editing, but somewhere which would add emphasis to the story line, and maybe attract the audience and their interest yet again gaining their interest and enquiries.

The group originally had no intention of using this method for the trailer, but because of the opportunities that has arisen, we believed it would be a great addition to the trailer. Our project soon became more unique and inventive due to our familiarity with software and editing programs, from something quite basic to something we believe possessed a higher sense of excitement and pace that would attract the audience’s attention, and overall just add a larger impact creating a successful trailer that worked well together, and most importantly entertained and fulfilled its purpose successfully.

Throughout the duration of the course and the progression of this project, I believe myself and the group have acquired a vast amount of new knowledge and techniques that we can now apply easily, and effectively. New opportunities have arisen that have allowed us to manipulate and create a higher quality result toward the end. Due to progressively gained knowledge in terms of editing software, and the use of equipment, we have been able to experiment in ways in which our lack of confidence that prevented us from progressing so successfully as we have done now. New ways of shooting and applying the editing to the footage have been discovered, creating a more effective impact, with valuable connotative features. Furthermore our decision making skills in terms of location and planning have improved from quite simplistic and undefined to a more defined and competent way of applying and using our time and resources. This became evident when the group worked together as a team successfully, plans for ideas and concepts were discussed rather than disregarded and ignored, elaborate plans as regards to shooting, script and location of cameras, and filming location were created helping us progress smoothly with the creation of our final product.

After having experienced media practioners watch our trailer we were given feedback centered around the film, and whether or not they had a keen interest, and could understand the trailer successfully. When we recieved the feedback for our trailer, we found that the audiences feedback agreed with our initial intentions. The audience were successfully able to recognise that the film was created around the action genre, due to specific aspects such as the fighting scenes, special effects, narration and the music, matching our original intentions for the final product, and the recognition of the genre that we hoped to achieve. The audience were able to recognise who the protagonist was from us successfully making him recogniseable through the editing and constant use of the character. They were also able to formulate the plotline, one student said "We can gather from the trailer that something tragic happened to the police man, leaving him with his new arm, but due to certain complications he cannot be free, and is on a quest to earn his freedom". We as a group intended the plotline to be something along these lines, again showing that our original intenions worked out successfully. Also as a group we aimed for the trailer to leave the audience for a further interest in seeing the film itself, and raising certain questions centered around the film. The group again responded to our aspirations and asked certain questions such as "What has he done?" "Where is his arm?" "Is he good or bad" and through further investigation we found that all of the students would like to see this film to answer all of the questions stated previously. Thus we believe that our trailer was successful in fufilling all the criteria we believed was essential to make our trailer successful, although as a group we agreed that in terms of alteration that an improved quality of editing, filming equipment and props would be needed to improve the quality and create a higher level support for the action genre conventions that we aimed to follow correctly.

Overall progression through AS and A2 has been successful for the group with certain interferences along the way, but only to soon be resolved with a matter of logic and planning. With this experience we were able to learn how to adapt, create, be resourceful, plan and work together as a team in a more successful manner.

Detailed treatment

We are introduced with the trailers establishing shot, as the protagonist runs toward the camera. The camera is tilted upon the floor, to create a low angle shot, with this the effect of empowerment for the central character is created within seconds on the trailer. The scene has a quick cut showing the protagonists feet, this adds to the effect and shows emphasis to the fact that he is in a hurry. The sound of panting can also be heard as the character hurrys along in the scene, this also adds to the effect, showing his impatience adding to the emphasis of the action within this partcicular scene. As the scene returns back to the protagonist at the low angle view, he is apprehended by a henchman. The mis-en-scene throughout the scene shows the protagonist to be wearing a hooded attire, that covers his face, thus generating a sense of darkness and mystery for the character, arousing questions for the audience once again. Further mis-en-scene that is noticeable, is the hooded henchman attacking the protagonist as he pants desperately infront of the camera. The mis-en-scene shows the henchman to have a similar attire to the protagonist but the facemask covering his face creates a slight sinister effect that shows the audience in a sense that he may be an enemy, but the entity that is most crucial for the audience is also the questions placed forward by the villains sudden appearance and mysterious clothing. With this, questions may arise, asking who, what and where as the trailer and the action contained within it ensues.

The scene then fades into what we see to be the production titles of the film, etablishing its producer's and creator etc. As this scene rolls along, we are introduced with the featured non-diegetic music that sets the scene and creates suspense. The scene begins to fade and with it the music continues to play toward the next scene, showing a bridge in the sound.

We are then introduced to a mid shot, low angle that exhibit's a first person view of the protagonist. The use of the camera here displays the characters lack of power, and insignifance for the time being, the voice over backs this shot by describing himself to be "normal once". and this links together what we see to be happening, and the voiceover to show as previously mentioned to be his lack of importance, a lower level of existence one could say. The non-diegetic music is also still playing in the background, to help build the suspense and create a specific eerie atmosphere. The editing used employed in the scene is a fade in and fade out, symbolling a passage of time, it also reveals a sense of equilibrium within the scene, which reflects the steady pace and content of the footage. The mis-en-scene reveals to us that the key character is situated within a car, which again backs up his simplicity in this scene, and the passing of the trees also reflects the passage of time mentioned earlier within the editing.

As the previous scene fades out, the next one soon fades in revealing a mid-shot of a male and a female, we can recognise from previous scene that the male character is the protagonist, or a character of high importance within the trailer. The scene reveals the male protagonist facing his wife and kissing her on the head, only to soon turn away and walk down the hallway. With this we can see an essence of negative emotion being displayed, as it is evident that the character is leaving everything behind due to the drama contained within the scene. This drama is backed up by the slow pace of the editing, the slow fades in and fades out add to the dramatic effect of the scene, and the passage of time, which in this case is backwards. The music also supports the negative emotion being emmited within the scene. The previously used track is still playing, but even so the slow pace, and the eerie atmosphere it creates multiplies the affect of the drama portratyed in the scene. We can see with the mis-en-scene within the scene, that characters are wearing normal attire that help reflect the point previously mentioned that everything was normal before, but the slow pace editing and music may give the viewers suspicions and raise questions about what is about to happen next, questioning whether or not things really are normal.

The scene soon fades to reveal a point of view low angle shot from the car, that was previously used before. This is used to again show his inferior status, but also to show a trail of thought within the trailer, to help add emphasis for what is inevitably going to occur. The editing also reflects this as we are still introduced with the slow fading in and fading out, this shows the emphasised passage of time used previously, helping portray again the fact that he was 'normal' once. The mis-en-scene stays the same as previously seen to again help portray the passage of time, and the protagonists previous simplistic life style compared to what we are introduced with now. Linked with this scene once again is the non-diegetic sound of the soundtrack playing in the background which again adds emphasis to the scene simulating a dramatic build up, which in turn may arouse the interest of the audience, creating the possibility of them questioning the scene, and what is about to be revealed in further scenes. The audience are made to feel involved and a part due to the mysterious and their key instinct to try and solve it through these techniques the trailer employs.

As the music plays and the scene fades we are soon introduced to an establishing pan shot that reveals to the audience a military building by the name of Patco. This shot reveals to the audience a new factor to the film that was not apparent before, setting the scene and developing the story the audience may ask questions which centre around the location, what it may be and the purpose of this unknown article. The editing incorporated into the scene follows the previous pattern established in the trailer, giving the trailer pace and assists the trailers climactic build up that has been evident from the very beginning. Linking similarly to the concept of the climactic build up is the sound, a voice over is evident announcing the sentence 'keep him alive, he's the only one in this God damn country this can work on!." This sudden vicious command in the scene appears to the audience as a surprise as we suddenly realise this is the introduction of a new, yet mysterious and possibly concealed antagonist to the plotline. This new character serves major importance to the trailer, pulling forward the audiences attention yet again, as questions of who this character is and what purpose he fufills in the film itself. Rendering the collection of establishing footage and voice over an effective use of film which attracts the audiences attention.

As the voice over and the scene fade, it soon fades to another revealing a close up shot of what can be seen as the protagonists waist. Although the main focus here is the protagonists left arm, as we see him try and conceal it with the sleeve of his hooded shirt. This clip is serves as a major development in the trailer, and as the protagonist shows that he may have something to hide, contributing toward the mystery of the trailer. This scene links similarly with the previous scene, potentially answering the audiences previous questions, creating a climatic build up, which progressively reveals more and more of the plot line to them, yet deployed in a discrete and effective way which almosts has the audience investigating the outcome. The Mise-en-scene assists this effect generated by the efficient use of camera, the blue attire helps reveal to the audience the identity of the central character due to the events in previous scenes, but more importantly the robotic arm that is evident on the character itself reveals something extraordinary and unexpected that audience may not have anticipated. The unveiling of the protagonists arm shifts the audiences expectations and assumptions of what may happen, raising more questions about the protagonist and this new-found posession of his. This successfully achieves the effect of revealing what genre the audience may expect as it is evident through the mise-en-scene of this particular scene that something big is about to occur. Parallel to the other scenes we see a slow fade in, and fade out, which by now the audience may start to recognise as the an effect to create the slow pace and climatic build up, simulating what can be seen as a passage of time, leading up to the drama and action that some of the audience may expect. The sound used mimics this effect setting the scene and producing an atmosphere that the audience may question regularly throughout.

The scene soon fades into the next revealing to us an over the shoulder mid shot of the protagonist and from the mise-en-scene appears to be a man of higher class, and importance due to his formal attire. These shots establish the character and the conversation that they are having, which through the sound reveals to the audience what seems to be a deal centered around the protagonists arm. Which again reveals to the audience a considerate amount of information as regards the central character and his importance to the antagonists of this plot-line. An array of questions may be evident in the audiences mind due to the development of events through the scenes, especially in the present scene, mainly because of the significance this arm has to certain individuals and the freedom which he will accept in return for it. To support the tense atmosphere of the conversation lies the editing, slow fades between each characters lines are incorporated adding emphasis to the scene, and the tension that is building progressively due to the atmosphere of the conversation and the mystery behind it. As the protagonist agrees to the deal, he leaves, showing a mid-shot of the unknown character, as we hear the diegetic sound of him saying 'You know what to do' again this adds emphasis to the scene, and the climax begins to build rapidly raising more questions for the audience as regards to the events occuring in this scene. A quick cut is applied soon revealing an extreme close up of his lips, and the antagonist declaring 'I want him dead' The sudden negative decision made by the character adds dramatically to the climax of the scene also revealing more of the plotline, and the importance the protagonist serves. The drama of the scene is also stressed by the non diegetic music coming to a halt, the sudden break in music may startle the audience, engaging in the possibility of the anticipated action foreseen by the audience. But also answering some of their unanswered questions, creating a tense atmosphere which may influence them to observe more of the trailer to see the final outcome.

Action is soon evident as the scene fades in to reveal a high angle over the shoulder shot, assisted by the non-diegetic sound of rock music. The mise-en-scene reveals the protagonist and a newly presented character, wearing a military outfit showing his importance, and authority within the scene. With this the audience may be thrown off again, bringing forward the possibility of questions being asked as regards to the identity and purpose of this unknown character. However the high camera angle used presents the protagonist as the authority being larger in size, and the military figure as being inferior, due to him being lower down to the protagonist, almost presenting what may be conceived as a metaphor for a food chain, implying the higher up, the stronger and more dominant you may be. Evidently implying that the protagonist has power, and a higher importance than the military figure. As the scene progresses the military figure approaches the protagonist, soon to be taken down again reflecting the lesser importance and power of the military compared to that of the protagonists. Through out the scene the editing and sound work together, a fast cut is deployed simulating the effect of action, also in which being a typical action convention. The sound of the music also creates a sense of action, and this genre of music is similarly used commonly in action themed films.

The action progresses as we are exposed to a long shot of the protagonist. The non-diegetic music is still evident, creating the same action filled atmosphere deployed previously. As the scene progresses we see the protagonist engage in a physical brawl with what seem to be two henchman, successfully beating them down. The henchman can be seen to be wearing domestic attire, giving the impression of them being normal and of lesser importance than that of the other antagonists established within the trailer, unveiling a gap between their status and power compared the protagonists As the fight ends, the protagonist regains his posture, and runs off quickly, showing a contrast between the action and the pace of the editing at this point. The long shot established, focused primarily on him, supports the victory of the protagonist unveiling a sense power. The fast cuts incorporated mimic the effect previously enforced, creating a fast paced sequence of action, almost a montage, that is a commonly used action convention. This again keeping the audience on edge, and unveils more of the potential plot to them, arousing their interests in the film.

With the music still playing, the scene cuts quickly into another revealing a mid shot of another new character. The diegetic sound of the character asking for the protagonists trust can be heard as the non diegetic sound of the loud rock music is still apparent. This mysterious character can be seen to be wearing domestic attire, revealing his normality in society, or leading the audience and others to believe that's how he is. The mystery of this newly unveiled character may provoke the audience, compelling them to ask about his identity and his intentions in the development of the plot. The camera shot shows the antagonists facial expression to be quite concerned adding emphasis to the drama of the scene, and also arousing the audiences curiosity and concern of the events that are taking place. The loud music also assists in creating a tense atmosphere for the audience, supporting the action that is evident in the trailer, and the anxiety of the characters. A quick cut is soon incorporated showing the protagonist replying to unknown character as he says 'I guess I have no choice'. The shot reveals to us the protagonists facial expression, showing him to be stern and determined, revealing to the audience the protagonists fortitude, showing a slight implication that the protagonist may have a challenge ahead of him.

Camera map

Shooting Schedule

Movie Script.

(Editing a result of bloggers auto formatting)


FREEDOM (TRAILER)- Rev. 08/10/09


FADE IN:

1 EXT. PATH IN FOREST (CHICAGO) - DAY 1


A man is seen running down a narrow forest path and can be heard breathing heavily. He seems agitated as he begins to slow to catch his breath. Suddenly from the shadows a figure leaps out, the scene cuts prior to contact between the two being made.

CUT TO:


SUPER: Crazy Lady Films

SUPER: Mechabear Productions

FADE IN:

2 INT. FRONT SEAT OF CAR (PORTLAND, OREGON) - DAY 2

The shot takes place from the point of view of A (the main character) as he is driven down a road lined with trees.

A (V.O)
I was normal once. Just a cop from Portland. Nothing special.

3 EXT. PACTO BUILDING (CHICAGO) – DAY 3

Establishing shots of the secret research facility fronted by the PACTO Company.

LT. KENNETH (V.O)
Keep him alive! He’s the only one in this god damn country this can work on.

4 INT. A IN A HOSPITAL LIKE BED/ ROOM (CHICAGO) - DAY 4

We see A waking up in hospital, as he brings his arm up to rub his eyes we see the nanotech arm. A opens his eyes to see the new arm and freezes, staring at the arm in horror and bewilderment.

A (V.O)
But one day that all changed.





5 INT. MAFIA HIDEOUT (CHICAGO) – NIGHT 5

Over the shoulder shot of A looking at the mafia boss and crime lord Don DeVici. A is talking to Don DeVici about making a deal to get out of the city.

DON DEVICI
So you want outta here,eh? Ill make you a deal.
Your FREEDOM for your arm.

A
Deal

A leaves the room and heads out of the building.

DON DEVICI
Boys, you know what to do. I want him dead!

6 EXT. MAFIA HIDEOUT (CHICAGO) – NIGHT 6

As A leaves he finds himself surrounded by Don DeVici’s men. We hear them load their guns. The scene keeps fading in and out to the sound of a heart beat before all sound stops and we see a black screen. We hear A scream in pain then as the footage fades back in the gun fire begins, a quickly stands up from his crouching position and we see that A now has a shield in place of his arm with bullets reflecting off.



7 EXT. IN A FOREST (CHICAGO) – DAY 7

A, LT Kenneth and Don DeVici can be seen fighting with swords. We hear the noise of the swords hitting each other as the fight progresses and also the sound of the participants of the fight grunting aggressively.



8 EXT. IN AN ALLEY WAY (CHICAGO) - DAY 8

A, can be seen shooting a laser beam down an alley way. We hear the noise of the laser beam rushing down the alley, as it nears towards the camera.


9 INT. BAR (CHICAGO) - NIGHT 9

Hector can be heard talking to A about how A can escape and get back to his family
in Portland, Oregon.

HECTOR
If you want to escape, you have to trust me.


A
I guess I have no choice.

10 EXT. FIELD (CHICAGO) - DAY 10

A can be seen conversing with Lt Kenneth, they are discussing A’s purpose and his past. Both are out of breath from fighting and Lt. Kenneth’s blade is covered in blood. The scene is done subtly to hide the fact that Don DeVici is dead.

LT KENNETH
You can’t escape your fate, you’re military property, we created you!

A
My path is for me to choose and no body else, I won’t let you get in my way.

The scene fades out and the freedom title comes in.

SUPER: Freedom title screen.


END.

Sound research

In the action trailers we have looked and identified it was clear that sound plays a major part in creating a certain atmosphere creating certain emotions and suspense, and emphasising action within certain films. For example in the movie "Gamer" the sound is used to compliment the action throughout the trailer. As the titles appear on screen at the beginning, there is a vast amount of non diegetic sound that can be heard creating the atmosphere and implementing action, and emphasising the beginning of the trailer. After the titles end, there is a slight fade in the sound, then we hear the soundtrack take its rightful place, which plays almost throughout the entire trailer. In some significant parts of the trailer the volume of the music is toned down so that the audience can concentrate on whats happening on screen and as it goes along the music picks up again as the action comes back into play.
On the top of the music when it is necessary, a deep stereotypical narrator voice over can be heard and the music plays quietly in the background still creating an atmosphere, whilst the narrator speaks and explains certain aspects of the plot line.
Another film chosen was Inglorious Basterds, in which starts with a non diegetic soundtrack playing softly in the background, whilst we hear the other sound of diegetic speech. Sound effects are also heard through part of the trailer to compliment the writing on the screen as well. As the action starts to build up later in the trailer, the music also picks up as the drums and guitar get louder and more intense in direct correlation with the action shown. As is was apparent from watching these trailers and others along with them, sound was a key point to making a successful trailer, as previously stated; it creates atmosphere and helps emphasise any action or situation that may occur within the trailer.
Our music choice was quite limited as we knew that copy righted music was not an option for our trailer, so we had to look for copyright free music. This led us to a site by the name of www.royaltyfreemusic.com, there were a few songs we found interesting, including Final Goal. The problem with this song in particular was the sponsors kept announcing their name above the track every 5 seconds or so, making the track an obsolete choice. Soon after it was apparent to us that all songs on this website included this interrupting feature so the case was to find another website that was efficient and had what we needed. This led us to a site by the name of www.soundzabound.com. This website had an array of high-quality songs than previously seen on the other site, but after reading some of the terms and conditions of this website, we found out that you would have to pay for the music which we felt was unnecessary due to our lack of funding and the inconvenience and hassle of the website. Some of the songs we found that initially interested us on the website were titled Surge and Hard Slam.
The next website we tried was called www.freeplaymusic.com, this was by far the best and most trustworthy of websites we had tried and checked, as there was no announcing and no payments needed. The first song we came across was named "Bouncing", but after us as a group listened to it properly we decided it wouldn't be suitable for our film particularly. The next three we came across were exactly what we had imagined and needed in our film, there were entitled Eliminator, Mugshot and Apocalypse. But after searching through more songs and listening to samples from the website, we found one more of interest which was called "Human". We then listened to the songs over again, and discussed the songs and our opinions on them and listened to each others opinions, and decided which bits from each track would sound advantageous and successful in our trailer. We decided that the first 24 seconds of "Mugshot" were suitable and fast rock paced intro. Other sections of Mugshot from "Mugshot" that we particularly liked was a section in the middle from 37-50 seconds and and then from 1.26 to 1.50. The ending of the song from 2.27 till the very end we thought would sound excellent at the end of our trailer to create a certain atmosphere to end the action on. The next song "Eliminator" also has a beginning that we particularly liked, so we chose 0-8 seconds as an acceptable section of the song. Other parts of the song we liked were 8-26 seconds and then 1.31 till 1.55 seconds. We also took note of 2.15 as around that point there is a accomplished feel to the song. Our third song in which we took bits from was "Apocalypse". This song has a particularly satisfactory section from the start to 24 seconds, creating a effective atmosphere, we also enjoyed 24-36 and 36-1.00, and finally 1.10 to 2.00. As we believed this would help emphasise action in our trailer and create a specific atmosphere.
Mugshot, Eliminator and Apocalypse are all quite heavy rock songs, which created a sense of action which we needed, but we felt we needed another song to counterbalance all the heavy music to make it sound perfect, that is when we came across the song "Only Human". This is a slow song that is key to building up tension and suspense in our trailer for the audience. What we liked about this song is the beginning of it, and how it fits the genre of our film and the feel of our idea perfectly. Another song we discovered whilst looking at the slow songs section is "On The Trigger". We especially liked the opening 40 seconds of this song, as again it created the perfect build up for our plot line and action.
Once we have created and started to edit our trailer, it may be more clear to us which songs might not fit or if there are any changes that need to take place, but for the time being we feel these tracks chosen, fit our action film trailer and create the kind of atmosphere, and emphasise the kind of action that we need to follow our plot line, making it sound right and as perfect as possible.