Function Films

Choosing visual effects were simple. The program “Davinci Resolve 15” contained many options to choose from. We knew that we would need blurs, especially for the scenes of confusion. For example, the wake-up scene. However, using the same blur will make it seem boring therefore we chose different types of blurs (zoom, normal, square, etc.).

In this day, my partner and I sat down and spoke about the missing pieces which will be crucial for the film. We shot the shots which we were missing and called it a day. The scenes included extra insert shots, transitions, etc. All done during the day.

Daniel Figueroa:

As a person, Daniel Figueroa is extremely energetic and filled with energy. He has a bright personality and doesn’t ask too many questions. He does what he is told to do, and is willing to compromise when there is an issue. He is not the best actor for his awkward and robotic movements, but he was extremely good at faking falls and pushes.

Jason Sanchez:

Jason is a mellow and relaxed person, however, can take a punch. We used Jason like a stunt double (for is the ability to take a light punch). He has a quiet personality, however, was willing to act. Jason was more natural with his movements which provided a perfect platform for an extra.

During the second shooting day, we filmed all the parts which we required daylight. The office scenes were filmed during this day, as well as the garage scenes. We had previously scheduled to have production meeting during this day, however, the day was perfect to film the day scenes. For it was not too sunny, but it was not cloudy. This provided the best ambiance for the scenes. the reduced sunlight also prevented glare in the camera.

During the first shooting day, we filmed all the action sequences. All the scenes which included a two-shot with action, we took advantage and filmed it then. The weather was suitable and held up throughout the entire day, therefore we did not suffer any interruptions. The moon was shining bright, therefore, the lighting was decent. And the locations were not populated with large crowds.

A rehearsal was not necessary due to the fact that most of the film opening was improve. This kept it natural and ensured that we get the best shots. Rehearsing an action sequence forces an unnatural look which would not have come out well in slow motion. Instead, we took this day to select the best locations to film every scene and make sure that the lighting was sufficient.

However, finding the perfect song was difficult. We needed a song which will capture the essence of the film opening for it will be playing throughout. The song cannot be too serious, nor could it be too comical/ childish. We also needed a song that would capture the essence of the film opening as well. Due to the fact that the main character was having a flashback or trying to “remember” what he had done. Choosing the song “Septemeber” from “Earth, Wind, and Fire” was a no brainer.

Due to the fact that we had previously chosen to play music over the scenes, finding sounds was not an issue. Most of the sounds at the beginning of the film opening were natural and raw.

My partner and I drove around our neighborhood to scout potential locations which we deemed suitable for our film opening.

Potential Location #1: Mother of Christ Church

This was a potential location for the sole purpose that we will have a large area to shoot. The large pace included a vast patch of grass, a basketball court, a shelter, etc. This allowed us to film all day without worry of “natural interruptions.” However, the location we needed did not have sufficient lighting, therefore, not suitable for our film.

Potential Location #2: My home

This was a potential location for it contained a decently sized backyard, giving us space to move. The cameraman will also have enough space to properly record the shot, without fear of interference. In addition, this is my home, therefore, we have access to rooms, garage, etc. This will allow us to show different settings whilst remaining in the same location.

Potential Location #3: Walgreens

We needed a well-lit area to counterbalance the darkness of the night. Walgreens has a large back ally which fit well with the theme of the film opening. The back ally provided us with a dark, ominous area where people could do “illegal activities” in the dark.

Potential Location #4: North Trail Park

The park provided us with a large, spacious area to shoot chases or scenes which we need an abundance of free space. It also contained a children’s playground which can be used to create a silly, comical scene. However, North Trail Park does not have the correct lighting which we needed.

 

I would say something comical like “we are men… we don’t wear make-up…” but it is time to get serious. Therefore, I will give the real answer as to why we did not use make-up. Due to the fact that my partner and I wanted to have a relatively natural look to all the characters, no makeup was used. In addition, the scenes were dark and action-packed, therefore, it was not necessary for makeup to be applied because the audience will not be focused on the person, rather the action occurring on the screen.

It may have been advantages applying a sort of musty look to the main character to show the effort and work he is doing, however, it was not necessary for it was still visible through the mise-en-scene.