Pre-Production - Indie Filmmaking Tips

Now I'm an 'indie director' by most accounts. I'm making a short on a shoestring budget. So I went online to find some great indie tips for creating a small production, and I wasn't dissapointed.

http://www.indiewire.com/article/10-tips-for-successfully-producing-a-micro-budget-feature

1. Make sure the script is written as a micro-budget feature.

Always make sure that the script is written and can be directed. I have the advantage I'm writing my own script to direct, so therefore I can create the means in which I can shoot. There's no point in having explosions and all sorts if its not feasable, so I must take into consideration budget when making a script and an eventual film.

2. Have a "home base" location during production.

This for me is the student house. This is where Tim lives and the majority of interior shots are made. This is great because it is free, close to the train stations for talent, and we can easily get there as crew.

3. Open it up.

By this, its the base location. Sure, its a student house, but we need to dress it up differently to give it the edge. Just because budget is down, doesn't mean it can't look nice.  


4. Shoot while locations are open.

This for the most part achievable. The only way I can't see this as not being achievable is because of the nightclub, itll be too hard to cut with music over the top and will be a mess. 


5. Cast matters. A lot.

I mean, we've tried our best to get the best actors we can, some with roles in big productions, so it's only a matter of time before they get big. 


6. There's no excuse for bad production values.

Totally true, theres no excuse, We have great facilities at the studios avaliable to us so theres no excuse why this couldn't look good.

7. Make sure your cast and crew have worked at your budget level before.

This is actually quite key. All of our guys have worked on student productions before, so they know what to expect when it comes to it, I personally cannot wait. 


8. Figure out how your core filmmaking team will pay their bills while you make the movie.

Student loan. Go Figure!


9. Know what you can figure out on your own, and when you need to pay for an expert.  

I mean, if i absolutely need to, i'll source something, but I don't think i need this step.


10. Budget through release.

So once its released, we're uploading to to 2 different festivals, colcester and BUFF, to ensure we hit some publicity at least when it comes to it. Facebook will help push the ROADMAN name forward too.

Somewhat of a helpful site. Helped me think about what I need and how to execute.

Pre-Production - Overpass Recce Video Justification

Pre-Production - Directing my First Indie Film

 Another indie post. This is my first big film so I need to make sure I research for it properly.



https://www.indieboogie.com/blogs/six-crucial-tips-for-directing-your-first-indie-film


1. Spark Interest

Sparking interest in ROADMAN was easy. The name sells the piece. You don't need any other word to describe the film, just ROADMAN. Its easy to say and rolls of the tongue, everyone was interested in my project when they heard that prase.

 2. Be Professional

I like to think I have a good attitude when it comes to shooting or creative means. I'm always willing to listen and develop my trade. I'm as professsional as it comes because I want the best out of the actors and I need to if I want a believable film.  


3. Account For The Unexpected

The main one I can see for this is lateness in actors. Because of the distance they have to travel, it's hard to account for timing, so we'll try our best to achieve this. 

4. Overestimate Budget  

 We have more than enough funds to carry us through the project. Sparing as much expense as possible.


5. Review Footage

Great for continuity. It's always good to relook on footage to make sure everything looked great on camera.  


6. Limit Credits

Don't overcompensate myself in the credits. It's a low budget production, but everyone knows that. Theres no point in having my name 14 times in the credits. 


An okay site to use this one. great tips that will add to my knowledge. 

Pre-Production - 8 Tips for Screenwriters

1 - Read Scripts

Obviously its a good idea to read a script to get a better understanding of what goes into a script, so I have been doing that. I've seen scripts from breaking bad and some from more about horror related scripts. But its not so much about the content for me, its about building something that has pace,how the acclaimed screenwriters describe what's happening on screen on paper, all very important when building a script.

2 - Take acting classes

Wouldn't go a miss to be honest, but I don't think i'll have the time in my schedule. But I understand the concept, being in the actors shoes and what not.

3 - Steal from life

Now this is interesting. This is from the point of view of ROADMAN. This helps. I had an interview with a roadman and this helped me develop the LORE behind ROADMAN and characters, what theme etcetc. ROADMAN is a realistic interpretation and does happen a lot.

4- Write everyday

Relevant. At least a scene per day. It's always better to rewrite than write at all. As long as i've got something on the page I'll be happy.

5 - Pro Writer interviews

Okay so this is beneficial. I've been studying some interviews with different screenwriters and getting top tips from around the web. They know what they're doing, so it'll help me.


6 - Break down bad movies.

This is interesting as I wouldn't have seen this coming, but I see the relevance. It's important to notice what you don't want in your script rather than what you do. If you aim as far away from the bad as possible, you won't get a bad script in my opnion.

7 - Articles and blogs

It's like I'm doing this right now! Totally on the right track.

Pre-Production - Screenwriting Research - Interview with unnamed 'Roadman'

Now, this is interesting, I never intended to write this blog, but people need to see my reasoning for my developmental journal, I don't want to have a secondary source in why Jimmy is based off of. Jimmy is based on a primary character in  my life and it makes sense if I write this. I shall leave this person unnamed as I don't want any implications but it was someone that was a close acquaintance of me throughout my life.

After I went out with some friends I found out through the grapevine that one of my older acquiescence had been arrested for drugs. This person had begun their downward spiral ever since attending their first year of University. The drug and party culture of new had somehow gotten too much for him. I instantly messaged when I got home to find out what has been going on. Firstly, maybe they was caught just being high or under the influence or with a pill that they intended to pop. I was so wrong. They were busted because they were trying to distribute drugs. Not just taking, but distributing of ecstasy, a class A drug in the UK.

He was reluctant to talk to me but rang me up and told me. I never intended to find out but I never wanted to see 'x' person fall to this low, we are better than this as people. He said he bought pills in at £2 a pop, and never owed anything ever, always outright, and would go and make upwards of 400 pounds a night, mostly being invested back into get more.

After a lengthy chat and discovering they turned their family home and halls inside out to find more, they did. hes being charged with possession with intent to distribute a class A drug and has been bailed. I just kept wondering, what made them do this? They were very naive about the whole situation, somewhat not understanding the concept of reality. It was 'I needed money for Uni', ' I needed to fund my international festival trip', 'You don't understand what its like to make  400 a night with no repercussions'. It was all a bit joke, and that hurt me. I work upwards of 12 hour shifts at McDonald to ensure I have enough money to get by, if I don't have the money, I cut what im doing or work more? Apparently the Job they were doing didn't make enough money for him to go out. BULLSHIT. You earn an honest living even if it is at McDonald, you never stoop that low. What if someone died whilst on his gear? Just because retail didn't make you enough money? The answers were insulting.

It was hard to me to interview this character, as it was too close to home. That's where I got the inspiration for Road man. It doesn't matter who is out there, someone cares about you, someone doesn't want you to fall, there is always an option than the dark road. And some people need to believe that.

Pre-Production- Direction Skillset Meeting, Justifications and Research.

A big topic in this skillset meeting was directorial style and approach. A big help I find is that looking at films i like what would I do different in regards to what they did (close ups, handheld, wide shot etcetc)

I need to create a mood board that will complement my style, which would then be included into a directors statement for the end product. Based on feedback in the meeting, I need a clear vision of everything to do with the vision of the end product, nothing can be arbitrary.

I need an indepth research of directors and directing as an art form.

Something else I am worried about is working with people I don't know. Ive always used people I am affiliated with and if they would understand my vision and what not. I need to be professional and have the answer to any question that might come up, to ensure ive planned every outcome and professional as posible.

Also as a side note, don't hire dicks, as they will more than likely make the shoots difficult.

A huge tip I picked up from simon is to know my script so i dont need to look at it whatsoever, keep blocking the scene in my head, ensuring I know my plan inside and out.

On a side note, maybe being an assisstant director on another shoot? Would make for a great blog. 

Pre-Production- Screenwriting Skillset Meeting, Justifications and Research.

As I had my first screenwriting skill-set and i did take notes in regards to progression and how I move forward in my project and progression as a screenwriter. My main issue was that it was I have to write in regards to what I can afford to shoot in a way. There's no point in writing in high profile explosions when Im on a shoestring budget, as its not achievable in the slightest. Writing a realistic script instead of a hypothetical production script means these things have to be taken into careful consideration.

Another Key note i picked up on was Lex mentioning about making sure the blind audience understand what on earth is going on. It may seem silly, but nobody apart from me knows whats going on in my head, so therefore, I need to connote more to make sure that the audience reading my script or watching my film understand my internal methodology and how the story will be told. It may be simple to understand in text, but execution is completely different.

Pre-Production - Directing Formula

http://actioncutprint.com/filmmaking-articles/7stepfilmdirectingformula/


More directing research!

STEP 1: THE STUDY OF HUMAN BEHAVIOR

I have to find the confines of my character, so I need to understand why they will do the things they do in my script. I see in the story Jimmy wants to protect billy, but his pride gets in the way because he wants to deal with things himself and that's not fair on Jimmy.  The characters need to feel real, and I need to establish who they are before I do something that's out of character for my characters ,the characters need to feel different, but most importantly, they need to feel real.


STEP 2: STORY

a. What is the story about?



The story is about two friends and their relationship as they encounter hard times in the place they live in.
b. Does the story make sense?
It does, it has a clear structure of beginning middle and end.

c. What problem is to be resolved?

Money. Money plays such a big part in peoples lives. If we don't have it, we're nothing of value, we will stop at nothing as a race to get money, no matter who it hurts, its just the way we are, we hurt the ojes we love. The big problem in ROADMAN is money, its how we got in the mess in the first place.

d. What event hooks the audience?
To me, my favourite scene is the first and last scene, they are direct mirrors, Billy needed help, and his beatdown is so dramatic it infuses why they are friends, and the same for the last scene.

e. What is the plot? (the action)

Jimmy dealing drugs in order to survive, but all the while lying to his friend.
f. What is the subplot? (the theme) 
Friendship, how a friendship can be on its edge, but they'll always be someone there for you.


STEP 3: PERFORMANCE

The actors need to be believable. so I need to follow this system to ensure I get the best out of them

a. Do I believe them?
I'd say the characters i've made up I do believe in their motives and their objectives in life.

b. Do the words make sense?
The conversations make sense between the characters and I feel what they are saying, it comes across as real life.

c. Are the characters believable? 
Definitely, they all have traits and all have goals they want to attain.


STEP 4: THE PRINCIPLES OF MONTAGE 
montage (the juxtaposition of images to tell a story,) filmmakers are able to produce certain emotions from the audience (laughter, fear, crying, shock) by manipulating an actor’s performance. 

I will be editing ROADMAN to ensure what I'm directing is carried over into the edit. I like the idea of long shots and fast edits for action, the variations and connotations between handheld and tripod will all be carried over into the edit.

STEP 5: THE PSYCHOLOGY OF THE CAMERA


1. The Lens

How intimate do I want to be with the character and how do I represent that visually?”

Depending on what shot I use, this will all depend on how initmate I want to be. I want a lot of the film to focus on close ups , as I think that's the best course of action for the genre I am in.

2. Depth

Again, this relates to the depth of field of the camera. I want shallow depth of field so it's literally the charaters are the only thing that matter on screen, this way the background is a blue, and if firther immerses the audience.


3. Focus

Again, visually, I want the focus to catch up with the audience  per se. This is acheived with racking focus on who is talking and who is not. I did a test shoot on this and it worked great.

4. Angle


What shots am I using?

a. Objective: The audience point of view. (Camera is placed outside the action.)
b. Subjective: The camera acts as the viewer’s eyes. (Camera is placed inside the action.)
c. Point of View: What the character is seeing. (Camera is the action.)

Mostly inside of the action, the camera will be very intimate with the actors, somewhat making it uncomfortable too, but this is the effect I want. Also, I have a few shots where it is point of view, I have a small love of these shots so they have to go in there at some point.

5. Frame

What is the shot about?

Again, this will depend on if I decide on what shot types to use. Mostly Close ups and medium close ups to really set the tone for the piece id say.


STEP 6: BASIC BLOCKING AND STAGING TECHNIQUES

As with any production that uses actors, whether that be theatre or film. It's a good idea to block the scene out to see how it will look on camera and in person. This also helps me as a director to get through what I need to and make small adjustments to the actors based on feedback to them to get the best out of them. I have to focus on stuff like

– Why the actor moves
– Where the actor moves
– When the actor moves
– How the actor moves

Blocking is so essential in film. You can't shoot in one take and it is a process to get the best performance you can.

STEP 7: CINEMATICS

I like to think I have a good eye for film. I like to think I know what shot looks good, becuase all of my previous films have always been praised for their shot types and shots, I want to carry this trend on in ROADMAN. So to achieve this, I can follow these steps.

1. Have complete confidence in yourself and faith in your talent and ability
2. Have the courage and tenacity to stick it out “no matter what”
3. Have a relentless focus on what is possible rather than what is not possible
4. Never stop searching for your unique voice, style and expression
5. Stay true to yourself: it will guide you to the right people and the right choices


Another great site for research and development of my directorial career. A*
 




  

Pre-Production - Directing 101

Directing 101 from Vimeo Video School on Vimeo.

I literally googled this and was not dissapointed. Even though its a video, it really does give you a rundown of what do do/ directing 101

1)  GET A STORYBOARD/Shot List

So i did get a storyboard made, tim contacted a storyboard artist after it was given some REALLY basic premise, really good actually! This give us a good indication of what we want the scene to look like and what we want out of the film. You can also see a clear indication of where the story is going. Shot lists are essential! Me and tim spent countless hours making a shot list, and we're sorry for the length of it, simon.

2) BELIEVE IN THE IDEA

I'm so passionate about the story of ROADMAN. I've always wanted to do a story like it. The event last year happened, it was a no brainer for me. I've been given my opportunity and im going to let it flourish. I love the premise and I have faith itll be my best yet.

3) MAKE SURE EVERYONE IS ON THE SAME PAGE!

I've sent the script to everyone in my crew. They all know what's going on. My door is always open for feedback, and I want people to ask me if they don't understand, its key in my role as director to see it through. I work at McDonalds so a team effort is really a god send in a production, everyone plays a part!

4) ACTION!

I'm still a novice, but I'm sure I wont mess that up!

5) Giving actors feedback

I'm a very communicative person. Much better than writing. I'll get the best out of someone. If I feel they can acheive it, i'll tell them ,its not critisizm, its feedback. Getting my vision out there is key.

6) The Diplomatic Director

Me and Tim are practically the same person. We look after each other and we understand what we both want. If Tim wants something shot differently, i've already agreed in my head anyway. I have faith he'll smash it out, if he don't like my idea, my door is always open for him. plus, nobody is perfect, a good idea can always bring it to life! BUT im not a doormat, I'm still the director at the end of the day.

7) Stay Cool.

I'm cool as anything. Ask anyone.

I liked this video, it gave me an understanding of being a director, and to be the best I can be. I believe in my idea and it will flourish if i let it. Great Video by the Vimeo Guys!

Pre-Production - LEARNING HOW TO WRITE A SCREENPLAY AGAIN!

So. Yeah. its been a while!

I have to get back into screenplaying again!

I found a great diagram that will re-teach the old screenwriting ways.

Found this at https://www.writersstore.com/how-to-write-a-screenplay-a-guide-to-scriptwriting/

I found a great diagram that will re-teach the old screenwriting ways. Its very  helpful because I haven't touched final draft in nearly two years, and this basic diagram where everything goes has really helped me get back into things. I know its not a lot, but it helps.

Character names, dialog, voice overs, it all helps towards my final grade and I want it to be the best it can be.

Pre-Production - Location Ideas - 'The Underpass'

Underneath Vinters Park Community Center is a great little underpass. My friend Lex reccomended it after I said I wanted an underpass location. Its a short walk from the studios so can easily be shot and reached for convienience. Its got a light system on it but I'm not entirely sure if that works as we looked at it during the day. No big deal if it doesn't. It's covered in graffitti and looks the part basically. Tim took out his canon and got a few snaps. So many shots and angles could be covered in this location and I really like this location. Its in a quiet residential area so we need to make sure that we don't affect them but it is public right of access as it is an underpass. That being said, we're going to the Kent film office with all of our potential filming locations anyway. Heres a short gallery

Now we can't be pleased first time, so its a good idea to look elsewhere. I was going to eat a cheeky nandos with my girlfriend at the newly refurbished Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre and noticed an underpass which looks creepy. I took some photos with my Xperia Z3 as a reference. Now I didn't go up to it but the gate was shut. No idea if it does open or not. More to this when I visit hempstead valley again.

Pre- Production - Prezi Greenlight Presentation

Here is mine and Tims greenlight presentation. We used a promo poster and our production company name as the title, kind of gives the viewer in insight into what is going on.

This greenlight presentation I wanted to fit the feel and you to get the jist of the overview of the project. Both me and Tim collaberated on it, and I personally think the presentation went well. Simon got a good understanding of the idea, concept and how we are going to allocate resources to make this project sucessful, but struggled to understand the story. However, with the script being ready as early as next week, hopefully that fills in the blanks to what my story is about.

Pre-Production - Screenplay Character Tips

http://www.indiewire.com/article/screenwriting-101-5-tips-for-writing-better-characters-into-your-screenplay

Now we're thinking about characters in my screenplay, ensureing I get the best out of them.


#1 – Make your character likeable early on

Achievable. I want to establish who is who early on, and quick. You'll have an understanding of their friendship by the second minute of the film. This will allow the audience to sink their teeth into the film and enjoy it.

#2 – Build realistic & detailed characterization

Realism Realism Realism.  That's all I can say. I have to make them believable and realistic. So they don't do anything out of character that they wouldn't do otherwise. 

#3 – Let your character make the decisions for you

I used a methodolody that what would the character do in a different situation. For example, if Jimmy got mugged, he'd fight them off rather than billy getting mugged who would take the beating. It would help establish who is who and who can deal with different situations and problems.

#4 – Give your character compelling dialogue

Interesting dialogue, little to no exposition. I will work to achieve this, I'm terrible at it. I'll try my best to give compelling dialogue to the actors, but I know i'll need a rewrite. 


#5 – Think like an actor and give your character a point of view

Now I'm a terrible actor, don't get me wrong. But it's good to think about what they would do from their point of view. It helps establish who they are as a person and how they'll progress the story.

This site definitely helped me think about character profiling and i'll get right to it to build my characters .

Pre-Production - Basic Outline of Story

Synopsis: Two young adults who became best friends at university, have moved into a house together as they begin their third and final together. But as the year goes on, one friend perseveres with their work & studies to better themselves, while the other seeks to earn a better living without sacrificing their damaging lifestyle.

Beginning

Billy & Jimmy are best friends whom have just completed the 2nd year of university. Having just scraped through the previous year, Character A has pledged to his friend (Jimmy) to knuckle down for his final year in order to achieve good grades!

Jimmy had breezed through the 2nd year and even helped Billy to get through with a pass, begins to get complacent and boasts that he will pass with ease it next year.

One thing Billy and Jimmy both agree on however is that they would like to get Part-Time/Summer Jobs to aid their living costs. (1st Turning Point)

Middle

The new academic year starts well for the friends, however inconsistencies start to appear in Jimmy’s behaviour, missing classes, coming home late and being secretive. Billy talks to Jimmy to find out what is going on and to encourage them back into classes. Jimmy is reluctant to listen and their grades/attendance continues to fall.

Jimmy opens up to Billy about their job not earning them enough money to make a living, funding the house, paying for expenses and continuing with their party-like lifestyle. Billy listens and urges Jimmy to settle down with their lifestyle and continue with their work, that it will all be worth it in the long run and they can return to partying after they graduate. Jimmy listens intently and considers their possibilities. (Midpoint)

One day Jimmy comes home (intoxicated?) and they are in possession of illegal substances. Once again Billy seeks to assertively encourage Jimmy away from this lifestyle and to earn an honest living and succeed in their final year of university.

End

Jimmy returns to a semi-normal way of living with Billy, but still seems distracted/unenthusiastic. Billy assumes this is just his friend getting back into the swing of things and disregards it.

Jimmy suggests they are going to study at the library this evening to catch up with coursework (Can Reveal Secret Stash of Substances to Audience), Billy approves but stays at home because they are on schedule. However Jimmy does not go to the library to study, but instead to continue with their illegal habits. (2nd Turning Point)

That evening someone tries to violently break into the house where Billy is staying, they become frightened and arm themselves with a household object.

As Jimmy returns home later that evening, they are shocked to see the door left open, with Billys dead body inside.

Pre-Production Unit - Deliverable Ideas

Here is a quick summary of ideas that I thought of going into my pre production package. I want the piece to focus on the Police aspect, as if one was looking at a murder file. I did a brainstorm and listed as many creative ways of using package ideas.