Portfolio Project: Prop/Set Design

Prop & Set Design

In our 2-minute thriller film opening the prop and set design play a key role in the storyline, showing themes of grief, denial, and a family who is living a complete lie. To further the story, my partner and I have to use visuals to show to the audience what is happening under the mask of a stranger. Although everything may appear normal at first glance, when looking closer viewers can see that all is not what it seems.

Set Design

The main setting is the family home where everything will be taking place. Specific shots will be filmed in spaces like the dining room, bathroom, and upstairs hallway. These seemingly normal locations are meant to trick the audience into thinking that nothing is wrong, and the family is ordinary. This also makes the plot twist of the strange guest shocking.

In the beginning, the home will feel welcoming and typical to a nice family, with music playing and soft lighting. As the plot slowly unfolds, the house will feel more cold and dark. This will reflect the growing fear and awareness of the family as the story progresses, in turn, building tension and fear.

 
Key Props

Family Photograph
One of the key props for the storyline is the family photo hung in the bathroom. It shows the original son, who has died, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. Putting the photo the bathroom shows how the stranger is attempting to become someone he isn't, never allowing the family to see that he isn't truly their son.

Later in the opening, a shot shows the guest trying to recreate the boy from the photo by drawing a birthmark on his face. Through this visual, it can be seen that the guest is not acting as a real person, but as a replacement for their dead son.

Dinner Table
The dinner table is where the main scenes are filmed, showing a "normal" family and routine. We use cross-cutting between dinners with the original son and dinners with the guest, to create a sense of confusion and fear. The props on the table stay mostly the same, showing how the family is trying to keep everything perfect and as it always has been.

Costumes

Costumes are key to the plot. The strange guest is dressed exactly as the original son from the photos, making him look like like an exact copy of him. This makes the opening feel unsettling as the audience learns that he isn't truly the son, but just a complete stranger with unknown intentions. 

Conclusion 

Overall, we kept the prop and set design simple but meaningful. Using everyday objects like family photos and the dinner table helped us suggest themes of grief and denial without directly explaining them. These choices make the opening feel realistic while slowly building a sense of discomfort for the audience.

Portfolio Project: Analyzing Credit Scenes

Research

Credit sequences are very important for giving professional credit and acknowledgement to the effort behind films and TV, helping to boost careers for the cast and crew. Not only do credit sequences serve as professional recognition, but they set the mood, style, and tone of the film, often being creative and engaging. They can also offer clues and extra information for audiences, specifically in extra scenes.


1. Zodiac (2007)

The opening credit sequence of Zodiac uses shots of normal, everyday life with certain aspects of danger and fear to build suspense. The credits are shown over shots of San Fransisco in 1969, with warm and soft lighting to help establish the aesthetic of the time period, creating a sense of realism. The pacing is slow and calm, showing mundane locations to make the opening feel relaxed and ordinary, adding to the shock and fear of the later fear and violence. The text of the credits is designed to look like coding and symbols, reflecting the Zodiac killer's letter. Through the visuals, realistic mise-en-scène, and use of text in the credits, the credits open to a slow, psychological.

 2. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)

The credit sequence for The Talented Mr. Ripley opens to the psychological themes of the film through the typography and few visuals. As the title appears, different adjectives appear to replace the word "talented," suggesting that the protagonist may be a complex character, and difficult to define as a person. The sharp and clean design of the text creates a calm and structured mood, conflicting with the shifting words which hints at themes of deception and conflict that is hidden. The credits only introduce the protagonist, seemingly Mr. Ripley, showing different angles of his face, which keeps the audience's attention focused on the character instead of a specific storyline. Ultimately, the credit sequence acts as preparation for the audience for a film that may evoke fear and stress.

3. American Psycho (2000)

The credit sequence for American Psycho builds tension for the audience through artistic visual shots that confuse viewers. The sequence begins with an extreme close-up of red liquid dripping onto a clean white surface, appearing to be blood. This creates a feeling of anticipation, as viewers want to know what it is. Later in the sequence, the liquid is revealed to be food that is being made in a nice restaurant, changing how the images and shots shown are to be perceived by the audience. The meticulous and bright lighting, and symmetrical shots show themes of control, structure, and perfection. The clean text of the credits mix with the elegance of the visuals, adding themes of wealth and surface-level appearance. Ultimately, the sequence helps prepare the audience for a thriller film with a focus on psychological violence and a superficial society.

Portfolio Project: Analyzing Film Openings

The opening scene of a film is vital to its overall success. These few minutes establish many important aspects of a storyline, including setting, characters, period, and overall aesthetic. In addition, it credits the many people that each took an invaluable role in the creation of the film. The research of film openings below is especially important as it allows me to get an idea of what an opening should look like, or could look like, to inspire me for my portfolio project.

1.Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)

In the opening of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, released in 2019 and directed by Quentin Tarantino, the audience is brought into the world of Los Angeles in 1969. It begins with the opening credits over a vintage painting, slowly zooming out into a car with two men driving it. The music is typical 60s style and the colors are vibrant, full of oranges, yellows, blues, and reds. These first two minutes immediately establish the iconic and typical aesthetic of 60s Hollywood. The credits are displayed in bright orange and vintage-styled fonts, pairing with the soft glow of the lighting as the setting shifts, introducing a new character who has just landed in an airport. The visuals feel cinematic and warm, with a slight haze, as if it were filmed on an old camera. This gives the opening a nostalgic and retro feel, typical to the 60s decade. The cuts are slow and paced, allowing the audience to see every detail of a scene, like a plane in the sky, cars driving down the street, billboards, and even clothing choices. The mise-en-scene is curated to fit what life in Los Angeles was in the 19060s, following the style strictly, from the vintage cars to flower-patterned luggage. The slow pacing mixed with the music, colors, lighting, and placement of shots help to establish a complex setting that is reflective of real-life events and people, all taking place in the vibrant world of Old Hollywood. 

2. Asteroid City (2023)

The opening of Asteroid City, released in 2023 and directed by Wes Anderson, opens by introducing the audience to the distinct style and aesthetic of the world, beginning with an all black-and-white documentary-style television show, making the audience feel as if they are watching a TV broadcast in the 1950s. On the screen, the host speaks to the audience under a bright light, contrasting with the darkness around him. Through the wide shot of the host on stage, the centered composition tells the audience that they are watching a show telling a story. With a sudden shift, the screen opens wide to vivid colors in the fictional town of Asteroid City, in which a bright yellow train is flying down a burnt orange desert. The contrast in lighting and color shows the audience the shift between stories. The desert landscape, paired with the vibrant colors not only build the nostalgic and iconic feel of a desert setting in the 1950s, but also fits in perfectly with the cinematic style of the film's director, Wes Anderson. The carefully planned and balanced shots pair with the strict framing, that make the scenes feel meticulous and intentional, almost like a painting. The opening doesn't flood the audience with action, but it sets the tone, visual aesthetic, and what the story may look like with two narratives. 

3. 500 Days of Summer (2009)

500 Days of Summer, released in 2009 and directed by Marc Webb, first opens to a man and a woman sitting on a park bench, staring out into the city. They smile at each other, seemingly in love. The natural lighting and medium shot makes the scene feel realistic and authentic, introducing the main characters, Tom and Summer as romantic interests. In several scenes, the camera makes them the center of the shot, showing them close together, creating intimacy and connection. Yet, as the narrator introduces both characters and their backstory's, he immediately states, "this is not a love story," surprising and perhaps intriguing the audience to keep watching. This sets up the films theme of expectation versus reality, unfolding the storyline. The setting of the opening scene in the office is dull, full of grey and nude colors. Then suddenly, as the opening credits begin to roll, shifting pictures of Tom and Summer as kids begin, creating a more personal atmosphere around the two protagonists, and setting up the aesthetic of the film which surrounds the complexity of human relationships.  With a mix of close-ups and wider shots, the techniques make the audience feel connected to their emotions, and to the actual characters and setting. This early choice to start with both characters together and then reveal the breakup later is symbolic to what society views in a seemingly perfect relationship, or what an outside perspective me see, versus how the relationship actually is, this is central to the themes in the film and what occurs between the two protagonists. 

Portfolio Project: Establishing a Timeline

Throughout the various projects completed this year, I have learned that it is vital to breakdown a timeline, or some form of plan, to stay organized and on time during the process of creating the project. This breakdown will help my partner and I stay on task, while also ensuring we are getting enough work done when needed.

Breakdown


1. Research

-Research and analyze examples of thriller film openings.

-Research and analyze examples of thriller film credits.


2. Planning

-Brainstorming thriller plot ideas

-Develop film characters

-Create 2-minute script

-Create the Storyboard

-Create a cast (actors)

-Research location and organize filming schedule


3. Production

-Create company logo

-Film opening + extra clips

-Develop mise-en-scene elements (costume, set, prop, lighting, etc.)

-Create foley sounds


4. Editing

-Edit the film footage

-Create the title card and credits scene

-Re-record any necessary foley or footage


5, Critical Creative Reflection

-Plan script for individual reflections

-Film reflection videos

-Edit and review both CCRs



Timeline


Week 1 (1/19-1/25)

-Choosing film genre

-Researching thriller genre film openings

-Brainstorming film plots


Week 2 (1/26-2/1)

-Finish plot plan

-Look for actors

-Find filming locations

-Look to rent camera equipment for filming

-Create script


Week 3 (2/2-2/8)

–Start and finish storyboard

-Set filming days

-Begin filming


Week 4 (2/9-2/15)

-Continue filming

-Record necessary foley/voiceover (if needed0


Week 5 (2/16-2/22)

-Finish filming

-Start editing/revising


Week 6 (2/23-3/1)

-Continue editing/revising

-Begin research for Creative Critical Reflection


Week 7 (3/2-3/8)

-Film and complete CCR

-Edit and review CCR


Week 8 (3/9-3/17)

-Extra week


We will work hard to ensure that we are sticking to the timeline and straying away from procrastination, but in case we find difficulties in getting work done on time, we have an extra week that will be used to ensure that everything is finished accordingly.

Transition into the Portfolio Project

In class, we have recently been introduced to the Portfolio Project where we will be creating a 2-minute film opening for a specific genre. Upon reading the instructions and looking at sample projects, my partner and I began discussing possibilities for our own project. We both individually researched different genres, and ultimately chose to do our film opening for the thriller genre.

When researching the thriller genre, we both agreed that it was not only possible, unlike other genres that would be more difficult like fantasy and horror, but it gives us range on different ideas we could do. Thriller films are extremely in-depth and explore different themes and narratives that could help us significantly when coming up with our
opening idea. We could either go with a classic psychological thriller, or take a different path and explore the many subplots in the expansive genre. Ultimately, our main goal is to create an opening that is intriguing, but also sends a message that can connect with viewers and make them curious about what could happen next.

When approaching a complex project such as this one, it is easy to get intimidated at first. So my partner and I decided to begin the brainstorming process by individually coming up with different ideas of what we could do in the thriller genre. When we have an idea, we will create a storyboard, characters, a world, and find equipment, locations, and actors to produce the actual film component of the project. Individually, we will document our process, filming videos and taking pictures of everything we do for the creation of the project. This way, it will be easier to complete the blog posts each week, incorporating details and multimedia, while also getting to look back on our process when we finish. 

Portfolio Project: Genre #2

 Genre: Thriller

Thriller is a very popular genre in film designed to keep an audience at the edge of their seat using suspense, tension, and high stakes. This genre is characterized by fast-paced storylines, many times featuring underdog protagonists and unique plot twists. Some common sub-genres include psychological, action, and crime. 

Thriller films usually have a broad audience with its target being primarily adults and young adults ages 18-50. These groups are often appealed to suspense, tension, and high stakes action. And while there isn't a significant divide between genders, men tend to prefer action, crime, and political thrillers, while women are drawn to psychological, romantic, and domestic thrillers. 

Thrillers usually focus genre conventions on intensity, suspense, high stakes, and quick pacing. Some core conventions include plot twists, red herrings, powerful antagonists and a protagonist in danger, suspenseful pacing, and a central danger, all important in creating a deep and profound story for audiences to enjoy.

Some genre conventions in thrillers use specific techniques such as close-ups, POV shots, and handheld camerawork to show fear, emotions, and create a sense of realism. The editing in thriller films is fast-paced during moments of intense fear and long pauses to create anticipatory suspense. Paring with the editing, sound is relied on heavily in thriller films to build up suspense. These films often use silence to build stress, ominous music, and sudden sounds to trigger a feeling of shock and surprise. And most importantly, lighting and mise-en-scene create a specific atmosphere in a thriller film that ties its intention perfectly. In filming, low key lighting is incorporated, like shadows, dark spaces, and reflections such as glass or mirrors to bring suspense and fear. And finally, urban locations in isolated and dark settings are used to make the fear and danger feel more real for audiences. 

In thrillers, institutional conventions focus on creating an experience for audiences where they cannot be calm until the film is over. It is key to keep the suspense and fear alive throughout the movie, using characters, plots, and cinematic techniques to do so. Posters and marketing for thriller films often use dark colors, shadows, silhouettes, or clues, and a tagline to intrigue viewers. Trailers incorporate quick cuts, intense music, teasers that attract intrigue, and a twist at the end that doesn't reveal anything,  just attracts audiences. 

1.A Haunting in Venice(2023):

A Haunting in Venice is a 2023 British mystery/thriller film following Agatha Christie's 1969 Hercule Poirot mystery, Hallowe'en Party. Now retired and living the worlds most glamorous city, Detective Poirot decides to attend a seance at an old, haunted palazzo. He is then thrust into a sinister mystery when one of the guests is murdered. The film features jump scares, disturbing images, and a dark setting to bring audiences psychological unease through a classic murder mystery. 

2.The Sixth Sense(1999):

The Sixth Sense is a 1999 American psychological thriller film that follows a young boy named Cole Sear who is keeps the dark secret of being visited by ghosts. Living in constant fear and surrounded by the dead he entrusts his secret with child psychologist Dr. Malcolm Crowe. As this Doctor works to uncover the secret of Cole's supernatural abilities, they are both awaken to something unexplainable. This film incorporates emotional depth, character development, dark lighting, eerie and immersive cinematography, and an iconic final twist to satisfy the structure of a good thriller film. Rather than a typical horror film, this psychological thriller is chilling, suspenseful, and emotionally unsettling. It relies on an eerie atmosphere, disturbing images, and constant psychological fear to truly impact audiences. 

Portfolio Project: Genre #1

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Romantic comedies, rom-coms, have been a very popular genre for films and TV shows for years, providing emotional connection, hope, comfort, acting as an escape for those with the universal desire for love. Rom-coms make people feel happy and fulfilled, feelings that are not as popular in other genres. It is a simple, yet enchanting genre that almost anyone can enjoy. 

The typical target audience for rom-coms is primarily women and young adults who enjoy feel-good storylines and emotion-packed plots, acting as a break from reality or connection to their own love lives. These films also target teen girls with relatable films portraying themes of high school and first love that may feel personal, or even nostalgic. This genre has historically targeted females, gaining the nickname "chick flicks," but has modernized over the years to reach a wider audience, appealing to a more diverse group of people, including the LGBTQ+ community with more inclusive storylines. 

Some popular rom-com genre conventions are "The meet-cute," obstacles, grand gestures, and the resolution. Others may be rivalries, awkward moments, jealousy, comedic effect through side characters, and themes such as confidence, identity, and growth. These different conventions create the story as a whole and are integral to the evolution of a love story. Many times they set the foundation of a relationship, and show the progression as its love grows. Finally, many rom-coms often incorporate the setting as its own character into the storyline, affecting the plot in several ways. Many films are set in large and recognizable cities like New York or Paris, making the story feel more real for viewers. Not only are the settings aesthetically-pleasing on screen, but people can place themselves into real-life settings where they are watching stories unfold. 

To create an aesthetic and lighthearted mood, many rom-coms use high-key lighting, colorful settings, and upbeat music, shifting it depending on the mood. Certain camera shots such as mid-shots are used to show body language between characters, specifically love interests, allowing viewers to understand through visual elements, the status of a specific relationship. These films often incorporate montage clips to progress the story visually, with quiet moments of two characters falling in love. Rom-coms rely heavily on these conventions, and need editing, acting, timing, humor, and emotion to succeed. 

Rom-coms are defined by their institutional conventions that have evolved through the history of the genre. While many people see the use of these conventions as predictable, they are ultimately vital to the success of rom-com films. This includes the core narrative in which different stories are recycled, such as meet-cutes, obstacles, developments, grand gestures, and a "happily ever after." These are paired with character tropes such as, relatable protagonists, enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, and infidelity. 

In addition to these, the mise-en-scene often incorporates urban settings in major cities, high-key lighting, and low for dramatic effect, and an upbeat or over-the-top soundtrack where audiences can clearly understand and see the emotions that are being portrayed in more ways than just the characters' portrayal. These are all vital to partner with the themes such as escapism, as these films are intended to be dream-like and comforting. 

1. Bridget Jones's Diary

Bridget Jones's Diary is 2001 romantic comedy film and loose adaptation of Jane Austen's, Pride and Prejudice, that follows the start of a new year for 32-year-old Bridget who takes control of her life and begins to keep a diary, in hopes to improve herself.  However, her life turns upside down when two different men begin fighting for her affection. This film follows the love triangle trope, and relies on its use of drama, humor, and portrayal of romantic gestures to satisfy audiences, while keeping them on their toes. 

2. Love Actually

Love Actually is a 2003 Christmas romantic comedy film that follows ten intertwined stories, examining different aspects of love and its connection of the universe as one emotion. The story begins five weeks before Christmas and progresses as a weekly countdown. This film is light-hearted, providing audiences with diverse storylines that will appeal to a wide range of audiences. It incorporates many tropes such as forced proximity, first love, infidelity, and forbidden love that can be enjoyed by many different viewers, creating an intricate storyline typical for a successful rom-com.