Film Openings: Credits

 I previously referenced a film's opening as a handshake to the audience. Continuing on this simile, the credits in a film opening is the identity of the production: it's the nametag and the small little "Hi, I'm _____, nice to meet you" portion from the film's side, letting the audience know who exactly they're "conversing" with (get it?).

While researching different film openings, I came across three films worth noting: The Hangover, Superbad, and Playdate.

The Hangover:

 - The audience is placed immediately into the middle of the chaos, after the events have already occurred. It creates a sense of confusion, and draws the audience into the film even more as they want to know what happened. As one of the main characters begins to make a phone call, the credits begin. This works because it places questions in the viewers minds about what happened the earlier and makes viewers want to continue watching in order to understand the story.

Superbad:

 - The opening credits in this film are more animated/exaggerated. We see the characters dancing awkwardly in a colorful scene. The actions of the actors does all the magic here. We see the immaturity of the characters in the way that they dance and the comedic tone of the film is set through the upbeat music. The credits are placed subtly and don't distract the audience, and helps keep the focus on the actors themselves.

Playdate: 

 - Playdate's opening credits are used to establish tension while maintaining a relatively funny tone. The opening creates an unsettling feeling while seeming relatively ordinary. It creates discomfort in the audience. The credits are placed in a way that they feel out of place, and that contrasts with the comedy expectations that the audience has come into the movie expecting. It helps create the understanding within the audience that this film will contain action that is tied with comedy.

All in all, these films use opening ways in different ways to engage the audience. Each film utilizes and relies on different aspects: The Hangover relies on irony, Superbad relies on animation, and Playdate relies on unease. These are perfect examples of how credits can shape an audience's expectations and cater to the success of a movie. 

Film Openings Research

 A film's opening is like a handshake. It's what filmmakers use to establish a relationship with the audience, and how they convince the audience to sit through and enjoy the film that they've made.

In the process of creating my own film opening, I researched some comedy films and their openings. The three films I researched were the ones that resonated best with me: The Hangover Part III, Wolfs, and Red One.

1.      The Hangover Part III –

a.      This comedy starts off by showing Leslie Chow escaping from prison midst a prison riot. We then see the personal experiences of Alan, one of the three main
friends. It sets up the story in a way that shows the conflict of one of the characters, and introduces the “meds” as a the main problem of the character. This conflict helps the plot by acting as a segway into the main conflict, which was Mr. Chow's robbery.

2.      Wolfs –

a.      This comedy starring Brad Pitt and George Clooney begins by establishing the setting, being a large, urban environment, and then focusing on the room of the introduced character. It shows that something scary has occurred, and that she’s searching for help. That’s when George Clooney gets introduced as someone whose job is to alleviate her situation.

3.      Red One

a.       This comedy film stars Dwayne Johnson (The Rock) and Chris Evans starts off by providing insight which later explains the conflict of the character of Jack O'Malley (Chris Evans). The audience is then shown Santa at a mall in Philadelphia, which is used to send the message that Santa's job can get diplomatic as well. The Rock is introduced as Santa’s head of security detail, and the main conflict begins when Santa gets kidnapped in an action sequence.

My Timeline - Portfolio Project

 

The completion of my portfolio project contains 5 steps.

1.      Initial Research (completed)

a.      Research and Analyze film openings in my genre

b.      Researching plot structures and finding conventions/traditions in my genre

2.      Planning

a.      Compiling a complete plot idea for my opening and having a script ready

b.      Completing a quick storyboard

c.      Finding/creating place for music (if needed)

d.      Finding Actors

e.      Choosing filming locations and setting dates

3.      Production

a.      Filming all of the scenes

b.      Recording any foley sounds or voiceovers

4.      Editing

a.      Putting all the footage together

b.      Creating the final cut

c.      Adding titles & credits

5.      Critical Creative Reflection

a.      Understand the four guiding questions

b.      Plan and write the CCR

Week 1 (1/19-1/23)

• ·       Understand the project and understand film openings

Week 2 (1/26-1/30)

·       Finalize plot idea

• ·       Write script
• ·       Create storyboard (quick draft, just structure)
• ·       Begin planning filming dates

Week 3 (2/2-2/6)

• ·       Character development planning
• ·       Mise-en-scene planning
• ·       Begin filming

Week 4 (2/9-2/15)

• ·       Continue/finish filming
• ·       Record any voiceover/foley needed
• ·       Begin editing (if done filming)

Week 5 (2/16-22)

• ·       Begin/continue editing
• ·       Start CCR, focusing on Q1

Week 6 (2/23-3/1)

• ·       Continue editing
• ·       Continue CCR

Week 7 (3/2-8)

·       Finalize editing & CCR

Week 8 (3/9-17)

• ·       Buffer week
• ·       Finalize and submit!

I know that I personally have troubles not procrastinating, and I’m hoping that this schedule can keep me on track or maybe even ahead of schedule.

 

I will be posting updates to the progress of my project as time goes on.

Introduction to Portfolio Project

 As a part of my AICE Media Studies AS Class, I will be creating a 2-minute film opening. 

I already have developed a good knowledge base about what film openings are about through some introductory assignments completed in class.

I'm planning on doing an opening for a comedy movie, but am also considering making an opening for an action movie. 

As for my approach, once I finally decide my genre, the hardest part will be coming up with a sort of script. This will help me create an outline of what my opening will actually consist of. I will then create a storyboard, detailing the different shots and scenes that my opening will include. The next step will be finding actors that can help me in my project and filming the required scenes. The last step will be editing and perfecting my piece.

Portfolio Project Genre #2

 The second genre I researched was action. Action films have always stood out to me because of their fast pacing, intense scenes, and high levels of excitement. I enjoy how action movies keep the audience engaged through physical movement, suspense, and high-stakes situations. This is a genre I would be interested in exploring for my portfolio project because it allows for creative storytelling and visually engaging scenes.

For action films, the typical target audience is teenagers and adults, usually between the ages of 13–40. Viewers are drawn to action movies because they offer adrenaline, entertainment, and escape from everyday life. Many people enjoy the thrill that comes from chase scenes, fight sequences, and dangerous missions, making action a popular film genre.

Content-wise, action films usually include intense physical movement, such as fights, explosions, chases, and stunts. There is a clear hero and villain, with the main character facing high-risk challenges. Some themes include survival, justice, bravery, and good versus evil. The protagonist is usually placed in dangerous situations and must overcome obstacles using strength, intelligence, or determination.

In terms of techniques, action films rely heavily on fast-paced editing to build tension and excitement. Camera movement includes tracking shots, quick cuts, and dramatic angles being commonly used. Sound design is also important, as loud effects and intense background music help heighten the emotion of scenes. Lighting is often darker or high-contrast to create a serious and intense mood.

When it comes to marketing, action films are usually promoted using high-energy trailers that showcase explosions, fight scenes, and suspenseful moments. Posters often feature the main character in a powerful pose, emphasizing strength or danger. These films are commonly produced by major studios.

One example of an action film is John Wick (2014), starring Keanu Reeves. This movie focuses on revenge and survival, and is known for its stylized fight scenes and fast pacing. The film uses dark lighting and intense choreography to keep viewers engaged throughout.

Another example is Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018). This film features large-scale action scenes, complex stunts, and high-risk missions.

Portfolio Project Genre #1

 The first genre I researched was comedy. I've always had a special connection with comedy films, and loved watching them. Comedy is a genre that I would be interested in.

For comedy, the typical target audience are kids, teenagers, and adults, usually ages 13-40. People tend to watch comedy movies mainly to relax, escape from their everyday lives, and to entertain themselves.  People are drawn to comedy films due to their relatable humor, awkward situations, and social commentary.

Content-wise, comedy shows/movies usually contain lighthearted and humorous storytelling. Situations that involve misunderstandings and irony are common, and exaggeration is commonly used. Dialogue is often filled with things like sarcasm, quick and snappy comebacks, and ironic moments.

These productions typically use fast pacing that help keep the jokes engaging and making sure they land. Close up shots are also utilized in order to capture facial expressions/interactions. Background music is sometimes used in order to enhance humor. 

In marketing processes, they are usually marketed using trailers which include some of the best jokes, bright posters that show silliness of characters or catchy punchlines. These films usually rely on popular actors and comedians.

Some examples of productions include Anyone But You (2023), starring Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney. This was a romantic comedy that was centered around misunderstandings. It targets young adults and fans of modern romance and also combines humor with relationship development.

Another example is Superbad (2007). This starred Jonah Hill, Seth Rogan, and Emma Stone. It was a teen comedy that was focused on friendship and coming-of-age, and uses exaggerated situations.