Directions unit: Reflection

Now that my project is finished i am really proud of what i have achieved.

I started this unit looking at the script and really not sure where to go with it. The lack of dialogue frightened me but looking back that lack of dialogue was actually what helped me decide to create a silent film. I had no experience in silent films and i really had to research the subject a lot in order to make sure that the film would be as good as it good be. I think the research has really paid of as i have a better understanding of what goes into those films and the history of them.

Auditioning actors was a massive step for me as i have never done anything like that before but again i think this was a good decision as i feel the actors i chose were perfect for the roles and really went out of their way to make sure the project was a success. It really was a team effort.

I am pleased i got the opportunity to really direct this piece as my last project i had to act and therefore impacted on the quality of the footage as i was unable to help set up the shot, this time i was involved in every bit of the process and i think this is reflected in the footage being to a higher standard than before.

One of the issues with my film was that as i changed the ending back to the original after the first shoot, the size of the package is a little small. This is something i need to think about in the future and hopefully that will make my film more believable. Continuity is key.

Another thing for me to think about is choice of location. If i had used sound on my film it would have been very hard to get good audio as the locations outside were very exposed and busy at times. Just something to think about for the future.

Things i need to work on are making sure i don't take on too much work. It was a massive stress after i finished work experience as i felt i had fallen behind with my project however as i had done all the research and planning before hand i hadn't actually. I feel although the work experience was a great and invaluable experience if i am to do this again i would plan it better so it doesn't take a week out of my unit. Another issue i had was camera battery. This wads my own fault as i did not keep the camera plugged in during the hotel shoot and instead ran off battery. This meant the battery ran out later in the day and the shoot had to finish early.

Overall i think this unit was a success and i have created a piece i can be really proud of. It is the first time i have ever made a short film and i think i have made something unique and really put my own style on it.

Stay safe,

Helen