Planning:Mise En Scene- Mr Smith

 

Mise En Scene 

Introduction

Mise en scene is made up of lighting, body language and facial expression, setting, costume, hair and makeup, and iconography. It is important to have mise en scene in films because the audience are able to have a clearer understanding of the events and understand whether the events occurring have positive connotations or negative connotations through the use of the mise en scene elements, for example, if there is low lighting supported by non diegetic sound that creates tension and suspense for the audience, it allows them to predict that the events that are going to occur are going to be fearful and horrifying with the victims and protagonist lives at risk. Mise en scene also allows the audience to understand the representation of the characters through their costume, hair and makeup and their facial expressions and body language, for example, if a character wears an all black outfit with a mask the audience are able to understand that the character is likely to be an antagonist with negative intensions due to the negative connotations of black which symbolise death and danger. I believe it is important to think about the mise en scene, especially in thriller films because the audience must feel suspense and tension throughout due to the events, therefore the mise en scene should highlight suspense and tension through the elements, for example, if dangerous iconography such as guns and knives are used by the antagonist the audience will immediately react with suspense and will fear for the victim and protagonist. This is also supported by the other elements.

Lighting
 

The lighting in the thriller opening will mainly consist of low lighting, top and under lighting supported by black and white colours. In the first shot when the professor is at his desk top and under lighting will be used allowing the audience to see the details clearly and understand that the protagonist is superior with positive intensions. However, when the camera shows him looking at the laptop screen, low key lighting will be used to demonstrate that the anti hero is in mentally unstable and is dangerous allowing the audience to understand and react with fear and tension. Furthermore, when the anti hero is in the mental institution low lighting will be used to support her feelings and personality which is currently mixed and will relate to her being in a dark place. When the camera switches from the anti hero to the flashbacks a white filter will be used to allow the audience to understand that the camera is switching to a flashback. During the flashbacks black and white colours will be used to symbolise that they are occurring in the anti hero's mind, black and white also contrast therefore relate to the anti hero's fragmented mind-set and her emotions.

 

Body language and facial expression 

• The professor will have an upright posture sitting by a desk with a curious facial expression demonstrating that he is concerned about the anti hero and is unable to understand her current mental state. This is conventional to a thriller film as it is expected for the protagonist to experience confusion making the audience react with suspense and tension as they question the protagonists abilities. 
• When the anti hero is first perceived in the mental institution she will have unstable body language followed by mixed facial expressions highlighting that she is demented and is not in control of her mind. However, during the first flashback the anti hero will have a relaxed body language demonstrating that she is content and is happy in her lovers presence, which will be supported by a loving facial expression symbolising that she is extremely happy. However, her happiness is short lived when she is caught by the antagonist causing her to react with a straight and mysterious facial expression worrying the audience as they can predict that the anti hero will act on what she has seen. During the second flashback, when the anti hero discovers her pregnancy she will have a tearful and happy facial expression demonstrating that her pregnancy is unexpected but also pleasant news for her. In the final flashback when she kills the antagonist she will have straight face suggesting that she has no emotions and then confidently kills the antagonist with a straight upright posture to symbolise her serious attitude. When the anti hero is then approached by the antagonist she has a fearful and frightening facial expression followed by a slouched posture as she moves away from the antagonist at a fast pace.
• The antagonist has still body language with a shocked facial expression during the flashbacks as she is unable to believe what she is experiencing and is shocked by the revelations, when the anti hero is about to commit her murder the antagonist is unable to move as she is in shock and freezes before being shot. When she enters the anti hero's room she will have an upright and straight posture demonstrating that she is serious causing fear and anticipation for the audience. This will be supported by a emotionless facial expression as the antagonists face lacks emotion demonstrating that she is determined to seek revenge. 
  
   

Setting

 

The film will begin in a white room used as the professors
office showing him sitting by a desk observing the anti hero's behaviour, the colour white also highlights that the professor is innocent and is the protagonist of the film. This causes the audience to respond with hope and confidence as they trust the protagonist and have faith that he will be able to solve the
problem. Furthermore, the anti hero will be in an empty white room symbolising a metal institution allowing the audience to understand that the anti hero is demented and is suffering from mental issues. The colour white also demonstrates that she is innocent however the size of the room will be small to highlight that she is not entirely innocent, only to the extent when her mind controls her actions. The audience react with suspense as they are intrigued to find out more about the anti hero and her past.  Moreover, when the anti hero begins seeing flashbacks, the setting will vary, during the first flashback when the anti hero and her lover are intimate they will be on the street down an alley way to demonstrate that they are hiding something and do not want to be seen by the public. This setting is conventional to a thriller film as it connotes danger and mystery creating suspense and anticipation for the audience. The second flashback will be set in a bathroom as the anti hero identifies her pregnancy which is conventional to the situation. The final flashback will be set on a quiet road where the anti hero shoots the antagonist, this is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for dangerous situations to take place in public places where the public can be harmed.

 

Costume, hair and makeup
 

• The protagonist will be formally dressed in a white shirt and tie followed by a lab coat and glasses to symbolise that he is professor and his intelligence will further be highlighted through his messy short hair. The use of the colour white symbolises the professors innocence and outlines his good intensions.
• The anti-hero will be dressed casually in a grey top and jeans, the use of the colour grey will be to symbolise the anti hero's split personality and suggest that although she is currently innocent and a victim of her own mind it demonstrates that she may have committed something in the past making her lack innocence. She will also have frizzy long hair to demonstrate that she is demented supported by a lack of makeup, with only dried mascara running down her face. During the flashbacks she will also wear light coloured casual clothing supported by straight hair demonstrating her knowledge and symbolising her innocence, however in the final flashback when she commits the antagonists murder she will wear black clothing with her hair covered by a hood connoting danger and mystery causing the audience to react in tension and fear the anti hero.
• The antagonist will wear formal light coloured clothing during the flashbacks to show that she is sophisticated and innocent as she is doing day to day routines, this allows the audience to relate to the antagonist. Her hair will be straightened however will have a design in it to further suggest that she is innocent. However, when she enters the anti hero's room she will have a dirty white dress on symbolising her lack of innocence and purity, which demonstrates her immediate change and makes he audience fear her as they are able to predict what she may do. She will also have long straight hair which will cover her face hiding her identity from the audience until she approaches the anti hero. When her face is discovered by the audience, they will be in shock as she will have a pale face with her eyes covered in blood.This image of the antagonist will cause the audience to respond with suspense and tension as they await for her to proceed and act aggressively.
• The lover will wear causal clothing consisting of a top and jeans which will be of dark colours suggesting that he lacks innocence and is guilty of coming adultery as he has an affair with the anti hero. He will also have short neat hair making him conventional to an attractive lover.

Iconography

When the protagonist is first shown, he is surrounded by iconography including a desk, laptop, stationary and coffee which demonstrates that the protagonist is knowledgeable and is observing the anti hero's behaviour, taking notes. The laptop is the first thing that is used to allow the audience to see the anti hero therefore has importance in the scene. There are also images on the wall behind the professor highlighting that she is his main concern that he is focusing on, trying to understand why and how she got into her current state.  Furthermore, when the anti hero perceived there is a chair in her room used for her to sit on which is supported by a tray of food on the floor for the anti hero. The lack of iconography in the room suggests that the anti hero is being observed and is not entitled to being surrounded by lots of things that may distract her or cause her to react negatively. During the flashbacks the iconography will consist of a rose given to the anti hero by her lover which has connotations of love however it has a meaning of 'first love' which will evidently be false after the audience see the lovers wife. During the second flashback a pregnancy test will be used when the anti hero identifies that she is pregnant. Finally, during the final flashback a gun will be used by the anti hero to kill the antagonist creating fear and tension from the audience as they are unaware of what to expect. Using conventional iconography is important as it the audience expect to see iconography such as guns which create suspense and anticipation.

Conclusion 

Overall, I have identified each element of mise en scene that I want to include in my thriller. My group members and I have discussed each element in detail and have ensured that our ideas are conventional to thriller genre creating suspense and anticipation from the audience. I will ensure I stick to my ideas and use them when creating my thriller opening by continuously referring back to the plans.

 

Planning: Pre-Production Paperwork- Miss Begum

 

Pre-Production Paperwork

Introduction

Before creating our thriller we produced pre production paperwork which is made up of a production schedule, camera shot list, location Reece, location release form, risk assessment and client release form. It is important to create these documents before filming in order to seek permission and have a clear understanding about the risks involved, the filming schedule and the locations were going to film at. Without these documents we would not be able to film effectively due to the risks we could face such as being stopped by police for setting up cameras to film in public, and being questioned by the owners of the locations. Therefore, creating the pre-production paperwork has avoided any problems from occurring. After understanding what each paperwork consisted of we split the roles between the group, We decided that Lara should complete the camera shot list and the production schedule as she has the role of being the producer, Mohydin should produce the Location Recee and Location release form as he has the role of location manager. Furthermore, we decided that Suweda should be responsible for creating the client release form while I create the risk assessment. 

Production Schedule
 

The production schedule is a summary of what is going to happen during the filming process. The document must be given to the cast and the crew members so they are aware of the information revolving the thriller such as the times and dates of filming, it should also be easy to understand avoiding confusion and ensuring that everybody understands what is expected of them. This is an example of the production schedule: 

 

Location Reccee
 

The location recee is a summary of the locations that the group have decided to use our the thriller. This document should be given to each person involved in the filming process including the film crew and the cast members so they have all the information regarding the locations that will be used. The Location Reccee should have visual information as well as reasons and choices for the chosen locations. This is an example of our location reccee: 

 

Location Release Form
 

A location release form is a legal document that discusses the terms and conditions for the company/council/ people that are giving permission for the group to film in their location. The form should be given to the company/council/people to show that they and the group have agreed to the terms and conditions and have understood everybody's rights. This is an example of our location release form: 
 

 

Client Release Form
 

A client release form is a legal document that discusses the terms and agreements for any factors in our thriller. It should contain an analysis of the risks and the locations making the cast aware of everything involved. The form should be given to all the cast members allowing them to have a clear understanding of the what is expected of them and signing the agreement accordingly. This is an example of our client release form:

 

Risk Assessment
 

The risk assessment is a legal document containing an analysis of the locations that will be used by the group with the risks that may arise identified and how the group plan to overcome them. The document should be given to all the crew members so they are aware of the risks and the actions they will need to take in order to deal with the issue. This is an example of my groups risk assessment: 
 

 

Advantages of the Pre-Production Paperwork

• The pre-production paperwork has been advantageous as it has increased the legitimacy of our filming process.
• It has allowed us to identify the importance of seeking permission to use locations, preparing the production schedule, identifying the locations.
• It has allowed us to identify the risks involved while filming.
• It now allows my group to film effectively. 
  

Planning: Micro-Elements- Mr Smith

 

Micro- Elements

Introduction

Cinematography is significant in films as it relates the angles, shots and movement of each scene and allows the audience to have a clearer understanding regarding the characters  representation and the events taking place in each scene. I believe cinematography is especially important in thriller films as it allows the audience to understand whether the character is a protagonist or an antagonist depending on the angle and shot, for example, a high angle evokes vulnerability symbolising that the character is a victim or protagonist. This creates a response from the audience as they react according to the angles, shots and movement. A tilt used on a antagonist for example would create suspense and tension from the audience. Some of the conventional cinematography used in thriller films include, extreme long shots which allow the audience to see the setting, characters and events occurring which creates more suspense and excitement for the audience. Furthermore, a zoom is conventional to the thriller genre as it allows the audience to see the characters emotions clearly creating more of a reaction from the audience. Finally, a low angle is commonly used on the antagonist demonstrating that they are superior and dominating which creates fear for the audience as they fear for the victim and the protagonist.

The cinematography we intend on using in our thriller consists of the following:

1) The first movement that will be using in the first shot will be a panning shot which will be used to show the professor who is sitting at a desk watching something on a laptop with photos of a women surrounding him. This will allow the audience to have a clear understanding regarding the professors occupation and will give them an insight on what he is doing. This will make the audience respond in a positive manner as they will understand that the professor has good tensions and is the protagonist of the film. However, they will also respond with interest as they will be unaware of what the professor is looking at and will want to find out more creating suspense and excitement. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for the audience to be introduced to the main characters and build a clear understanding revolving the character through their representation.

2)  We intend on using an over the shoulder shot when the professor is observing a demented woman on a laptop screen. This allows the audience to see what the professor is watching clearly, and causes anticipation for them as they want to understand more about the woman and about her present state. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for the audience to gradually find out more about the storyline and build an understanding about the characters. An over the shoulder shot is used regularly in the thriller 'I Spit On Your grave' I'm order for the audience to see the antagonist from over the victims shoulder suggesting their power and dominance. Therefore, by using an over the shoulder shot in the professors scene will also present the professor as dominant and intelligent highlighting this representation to the audience allowing them to have a clear understanding regarding the protagonist. 

3)  We are also planning to use a close up showing the anti hero's angry reaction after she sees a flashback of the antagonist catching her and the antagonist. This allows the audience to perceive the anti hero's feelings and emotions clearly understanding that she has mixed emotions and has a split personality immediately transforming her feelings. This creates a sympathetic response from the audience towards the anti hero as they are aware that the events have had a negative impact on her and caused her to react with anger. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for a close up to be used in order to show a characters facial expressions clearly. It is also conventional for the anti hero to have feelings of anger due to the antagonists behaviour which demonstrates that the anti hero can act aggressively as they have unpredictable personality. Close ups are continuously used in the opening scene of 'Scream' on the female victim to symbolise her feelings clearly to the audience allowing them to see her distress and vulnerability. This will therefore be effective to use in order for the audience to gain an understanding about the anti hero's anger. 

4) We will include a zoom shot after the anti hero sees her pregnancy flashback and is seen to her her stomach with a grateful facial expression. This allows the audience to see the anti hero's feelings clearly and see her facial and body reaction to the flashback,they are able to understand that she looks foward to having her baby and that she does not regret getting pregnant. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for zoom shots to be used allowing the audience to have a greater understanding about a particular character and their actions and reactions towards situations. A zoom shot is used in the thriller film 'Psycho' in the final scene when the camera zooms into the antagonist allowing the audience to see his emotions and facial expressions more clearly which is effective as it creates tension for the audience, therefore we will use a zoom shot in order to create the same response from our target audience. 

5)   We will use a long shot when the door of the anti hero's room slowly begins to open. This creates tension and excitement for the audience as they await to see who enters the room in anticipation as they do not know what to expect, the long shot allows the audience to see the full length of the door as it opens. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for unexpected and tense events to take place shocking the audience and leaving them on the edge of their seats in suspense and tension.

6) A point of view will be used to see things from the anti hero's perspective when she is aware of the antagonists presence. This allows the audience to see the antagonists emotions and they react by sympathising with the antagonist. This also creates a response from the audience who are left in suspense as to what is going to happen as a result of the anti hero and lover getting caught. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for the audience to evoke sympathy for particular characters and for them to be in suspense due to unexpected events occurring leaving  the audience unaware of the upcoming events to occur.

 

7)  We intend on using a high angle shot when the anti hero sees her pregnancy test and identifies that she is pregnant. This suggests that she is vulnerable as she was not expecting

the pregnancy and is left in shock due to the revelations as she is left in a difficult situation. This creates a response from the audience who are in shock about the situation and react with sympathy as they empathise with the anti hero. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for the anti hero to experience situations which leave them in a difficult position and make the audience question the anti hero's decision.

8)  A tilt shot will be used when the antagonist enters the anti hero's room. The audience first see the antagonists feet gradually tilting vertically towards her head. This creates suspense for the audience as wait in anticipation to find out who has entered the anti hero's room and more tension is built due to the antagonists threatening and frightening appearance. This is conventional as it is expected by tension and suspense to build for the audience as they await for the antagonists appearance to be identified.

 

9)  We want to use an extreme long shot when the anti hero shoots the antagonist. This will allow the audience to witness the murder and the surroundings. This creates shock and suspense for the audience as they are able to clearly see what is going on as well as observing the surroundings. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for murders to occur creating a twist to the plot heightening the tension for the audience.

Sound is also important in a film as it heightens tensions and gives the audience an insight into the events. Without sound a film would lack fluidity and would not create suspense or anticipation for the audience, sound is especially important in a thriller film as the dark and high tempo sounds create a response from the audience and adds to their excitement, during a frightening scene the sound allows the audience to be on the edge of their seats. 

We intend on using the following sounds in our film: 

1) We will use diegetic sound when the anti hero shoots the antagonist. This will be due to the sound effects of the gun shot that will be created. This creates suspense and shock for the audience as they cannot believe what has happened and is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for the sound of a gun to be presented after a shooting.

2)  We intend on using parallel sound when the anti hero and the lover are caught by the antagonist. This will be the when the antagonist reacts to the situation in shock and gasps,

this creates anticipation and sympathy for the audience. This is conventional to thriller genre as it is expected for the characters to react to certain situations in shock as they do not know how to respond at that certain moment. Parallel sound is used frequently in 'Scream' as the female victim screams in response to the antagonists actions which is expected. This then creates anticipation and suspense for the audience which will be effective to use in our production, as the audiences tension will build up as they predict how the antagonist will react to the events. 

3) We also want to use on screen sound through the anti hero crying repeatedly demonstrating signs of guilt and regret due to the situations. This suggests that the anti hero's emotions change repeatedly according to the situation, the on screen sound is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for the anti hero to show signs of sadness by crying.

4)  We will also include non diegetic sound through the use of a dark and high tempo soundtrack when the antagonist approaches the anti hero causing the anti hero to react and move away from her in a threating manner.  This suggests that the anti hero is threatened and feels intimidated by the antagonist causing her to move away. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for an intimidating soundtrack to used during a tense situation causing the audience to react with suspense and excitement as they await for further revelations to take place. Non diegetic sound is evident in the film 'Insideous' during the baby monitor scene when the soundtrack used creates tension as the audience wait in suspense. This is effective therefore using it in a similar situation will  create the same response from the audience. 

5) Another important sound we will use use is off screen sound through the sounds of traffic, during the flashback of the anti hero and her lover acting intimately. This demonstrates that the characters are in public which creates the risk of the characters getting caught, however it is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for the characters to experience romance in urban locations allowing the audience to relate to certain situations.

Editing is significant in a film as it completes a film by ensuring that each shot can easily be produced and easily followed by another shot without it being obvious to the audience eye. Different editing types have a different effect in the audience, for example fast editing increases excitement for the audience and is used during scenes such as a car chase. Editing is especially important in thriller films as the different edits create different moods for the audience, however the most common moods consist of excitement and fear.

We will use the following editing in our film: 

1) We intend on adding a reaction shot when the antagonist catches the anti hero and her lover acting intimately. This allows the audience to see how the  antagonist reacts to the situation and they are able to sympathise with her and may be able to relate to her. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for a reaction shot to be used in situations that evoke feelings of shock, anger, fear etc allowing the audience to perceive the characters emotions and understand more about the character and connecting with them and the film itself. 

2) We also want to use slow editing when the antagonist enters the anti hero's room. This creates a chilling response for the audience as the tension builds and they are able to predict the upcoming situation which will consist of the antagonist approaching the anti hero, the predictions cause  more suspense an excitement for the audience. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for slow editing to be used in tense and dangerous situations leaving the audience on the edge of their seats. 

3) We also want to add a shot reverse shot when the antagonist begins walking towards the anti hero. The use of the shot reverse shot allows the audience to see both the characters reactions and emotions creating more suspense for them and creating fear for the anti hero who is unaware of what the antagonist will do. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for a shot reverse shot to be used between the antagonist and other characters who are not as superior and lack confidence creating more anticipation for the audience who fear for the weak characters life. 

4) We are going to include a wipe cut when the shot changes from the professor looking at the laptop screen and changing into the camera zooming into the laptop screen. The use of the wipe cute allows the audience to have a clearer understanding of what is going on and prevents confusion for the audience. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for a wipe cut to be used when changing from one shot into another. 

5) We have decided to use fast editing when the anti hero is perceived to be acting insane and demented. The use of the fast editing allows the excitement to build for the audience due to fast pace action occurring. Fast editing encourages the anti hero's behaviour as it presents her as more demented and also reflects her fragmented mind-set. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for fast editing to occur during particular situations in order to increase the anticipation and tension for the audience. 

6) A fade to white will be used when the anti hero switches from reality to each of her flashbacks. This gives the audience a clear a understanding that the anti hero is seeing flashbacks and reminiscing on her past. This makes the audience respond with interest as they are able to find out about the anti hero's past and find out about how she got into her current state. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it is expected for the main character such as the anti hero to look back on significant parts of their life which has affected them also informing the audience using a fade to white avoiding confusion for the audience about the different tenses. 

Conclusion 

Overall, I have identified the importance of cinematography, sound and editing  in thriller films and my group and I have decided which cinematography, sounds and editing we are going to use in our thriller ensuring that they are conventional to the thriller genre and get the correct message across to the audience regarding the characters and events. For example, we have decided to use a high angle shot will be used when the anti hero is in a vulnerable situation and this also allows the audience to understand through the use of he characters size as she appears smaller and more intimidated.Therefore, cinematography, sound and editing must be used carefully and correctly to ensure that they fit the thriller genre.

Planning: Production roles- Miss Begum

 

Production Roles

 

Introduction

Production roles are made up of 9 key roles that are essential to involve in films ensuring they are made successfully. Production roles consist of a director, producer, editor, sound technician, camera operator, lighting operator and makeup, hair and costume artist. Each of these roles help to ensure a film is successfully created to the highest possible standard. When we were given the opportunity to decide on the responsibility of each role we distributed production roles between the group members after identifying their definitions and the roles they play in helping to produce a film. We decided on what roles each individual should have based on certain attributes the individual had that enabled them to succeed within their role. 

 

The different roles and their definitions

 

•  Director: A film director is responsible for having the authority of directing the film. A film director gives directions to the crew and cast ensuring that everybody is following the script and storyboard producing the film successfully. A director must have good leadership skills communicating well with their team members and they must also meet tight deadlines therefore work efficiently making use of their time. The director is supported by the producer and storyboard artist, the producer supervises the film and parts of the production while the storyboard artist shares the information about each shot with the director ensuring that they are following the storyboard. Overall, the director makes the overall decisions associated with the film.

 

•  Producer : A film producer works closely with the film director supervising the making of a film before preparing and presenting it to a film distributor. One of their key responsibilities is ensuring that they create an environment where the film crew and cast can flourish and produce their talents effectively. The producer is also often the first person to get involved in a project and come up with the idea for a production, they secure the rights, choose the screenwriter and story editing team. In pre production the producer is responsible for bringing the creative team together including the director, cinematographer, production designer and key cast members. Overall, the producer supervise the development process.

 

• Lighting operator :The lighting operator is responsible for creating the light and atmosphere in the film  creating the correct connotations associated with each shot. For example, if the shot has connotations of negativity low lighting will be used by the lighting operator to establish these connotations. A lighting operator keeps in mind issues of visibility, safety and cost ensuring they do not exceed the budget and avoid making mistakes. The lighting operator reads the script carefully and make notes on changes in place and time between scenes, which allows him to identify changes often done just with lighting to avoid too many blackouts in one scene. They will also have meetings with the director, designers, stage manager and the production manager to discuss ideas for the film, and establish budget and scheduling details.
 

 

• Location manager: A location manager is responsible for finding the appropriate location where the film scenes will be set. They must ensure they obtain permission from the police, governmental permits and location owners before they are able to use the location as a set for a scene. A location manager usually works closely with the director and the production designer during preproduction to find and secure their expressed creative vision. The manager is also responsible for public relations at the locations used and the crew's safety during filming.

 

• Camera operator: The camera operator is responsible for physically operating the camera maintaining the camera angles, movement and size of each shot. In narrative filmmaking, the camera operator will work  with the director, director of photography, actors and the film crew to make technical and creative decisions. In the film setting a camera operator is part of a film crew consisting of the director of photography and camera assistants.

 

 

 

• Editor: A film editor has the responsibility of working with raw footage, selecting shots and combining them into sequences creating moving images. A film editor must creatively work with images, story, dialogue, music, pacing, as well as the actors performances to effectively re-imagine and even rewrite the film to craft a cohesive whole. Editors usually play a dynamic role in the making of a film.

• Costume, hair and makeup artist: A costume, hair and makeup artist is responsible for creating the cast members appearances. A costume, hair and makeup artist work closely with directors and performers. They assess make-up and hair requirements, set up the department  and prepare the make-up and hair budgets and schedules. They break down the script scene by scene to identify the required make-up, costume and hairstyles. Before beginning the creation of the characters appearances they make notes of the characters ensure they make each characters fit their representation and image before they begin developing their appearances.

• Storyboard Artist:  A storyboard artist is responsible for producing images and notes based on each shot. They visualise the details associated with each shot and put their ideas on paper. Quick pencil sketches are the conventional technique of creating a storyboard. Storyboard artists may use photos to create visuals where photos taken specifically for the project are put together digitally to produce a photographic representation called a photo visual.

• Sound operator: Sound operators  are responsible for operating and maintaining the technical equipment used to record, amplify, enhance, mix or reproduce sound. They identify the sound requirements for a given task or situation and perform the appropriate actions to produce this sound. Sound technicians may use software to help produce effective sound and sound effects.

 

 

 

Who has what role and why?

•  Director: Fatma- I have decided to take on the responsibility of being the director as I have good leadership skills and I am capable of managing a group of team members, and ensuring that I am listened to by explaining myself clearly and giving moral support to each team member. I am also a focused person therefore I know I will not be easily distracted and will ensure I complete my project to a high standard. 

 

• Producer: Lara- We decided that Lara should be the producer as she has excellent communication skills therefore she is able to communicate with people efficiently and is also a patient person therefore is capable of dealing with any problems that the group members have. She is also a creative individual and will therefore help come up with new ideas for the production as well as visualise how certain things should be presented.

 

• Lighting Operator: Suweda- We decided that Suweda should take on the responsibility of being the lighting operator as she is generally good at problem solving therefore will be able to control the lighting and deal with any issues that arise with the lighting. She Is also creative and is therefore able to position the light source in the appropriate positions due to her knowledge and creativity, for example if a shadow is to be created Suweda will be able to work out how to create it due to her problem solving and creative skills.

 

• Location Manager: Mohydin- We have decided that Mohydin should be the location manager as he has good organisational skills therefore will be able to choose the locations efficiently. He is also good at negotiating therefore will be able to negotiate efficiently with location owners if we need to use a public place to film our shots.

• 
  Camera operator: Fatma- We decided that I should be the camera operator I have good practical skills, therefore I will be able to operate a camera efficiently and move it accordingly. I am also able to interpret instructions to visualise shots.

 

 

• 
  Editor: Lara-  We decided that Lara should take on the editing role as she has past experience after editing a film she created previously therefore she will be able to edit our film confidently using her past knowledge making it high quality. Also, due to her patience she will be able to remain calm and confident in high stress situations.

 

• 
  Costume, hair and makeup artist: Suweda-  We decided that Suweda should take on the responsibility of being the costume, hair and makeup artist due to her creative skills which will help her to create the perfect image for each character and ensure their image fits their role, for example the antagonists hair, costume and makeup should clearly connote evilness and fright for the other characters and the audience.

 

•  Storyboard Artist: Mohydin- We chose Mohydin to take responsibility of creating the storyboard as he is artistic therefore is able to draw each shot in detail and present the visuals in a convincing way. He is also aware of the overall theme and events therefore will create the storyboard accordingly.

 

• Sound Operator: Fatma- We chose for me to be take responsibility of operating the sound as I am passionate and enjoy learning new skills therefore when being introduced to new software I will be able to learn quickly and add the appropriate sound to each shot. I also possess skills of agility and endurance therefore I am capable of inserting sound to our film.

 

 

 

Conclusion: How has this been beneficial ?

Overall, this planning has been beneficial as it has allowed each group member to identify their required qualities and according to these qualities we were able to decide who took on the responsibility of each role. We had to ensure we chose our roles carefully as we are aware that these roles will be significant and that we each must fulfil our roles to ensure the film is created successfully. It is also beneficial as it enables us to prepare and come up with new ideas adding to the current ideas.

 

 

Planning: Character Representation- Miss Begum

Character Representation

• Name: Lara 
• Character role: Lara will be play an anti-hero as she will be liked and hated by the audience due to her actions which can be perceived as sympathetic when she is demented, however, she can also be perceived as heartless and evil when she commits murder killing the antagonist.
• Age: 20-25
• Gender Stereotype of role: British, slim build, emotional as she is unable to control her emotions, she is also dependent as her mind controls her personality. She has a dark side to her personality as she is able to change immediately and is capable of anything.
• Costume: When she is in the mental hospital she will wear a grey top suggesting her split personality and symbolising her past experiences as negative. The audience will be able to predict and make assumptions on the anti hero's personality and actions due to her costume.  However, during the first flashback the anti hero will wear a dark colour to suggest that her relationship with her lover is not conventional and that she is having an affair. In the second flashback, the anti hero will wear a light colour to promote her innocence when she finds out she is pregnancy. In the final flashback, the anti hero will wear a black outfit consisting of a black hooded cardigan when she kills the antagonist to connote death and create suspense and anticipation from the audience.
• Hair and makeup: The Anti hero's hair will be frizzy to support her demented personality when she is in the mental institution. This will be supported by minimal makeup, however there will be mascara running down her face to highlight that she is in a state and is not control of herself. However, during the first and second flashbacks the anti hero's hair will be straight demonstrating that she is in the correct mind frame and is demented. However, In the final flashback when she shoots the antagonist the anti hero's hair will be covered and will be seen allowing the audience to focus on her facial expression understanding her feelings and emotions towards the situation. She will not have any makeup on insinuating that she is not confident about committing the murder as she knows she will face the consequences.
• Body language and facial expression: The anti hero will have an unstable posture and will be unable to stay still when she is in the mental institution, this will be supported by her facial expressions continuously changing from being happy then to angry and upset. After seeing each flashback the anti hero will react with a facial expression of guilt and regret and when she sees the pregnancy test she will evoke happiness demonstrating that she is looking forward to having her baby. During the first two flashbacks the anti hero will have straight and relaxed body language supported by an expression of happiness and after seeing her pregnancy test she will have a shocked facial expression symbolising that it the pregnancy was unexpected for her. When she kills the antagonist she will have a straight but unconfident facial expression demonstrating her mixed emotions, her body language will also be upright to show that she is serious. When the antagonist enters the room the anti hero will have vulnerable body language when moving away from the antagonist and she will have a fearful facial expression evoking sympathy from the audience.
• The anti hero will be represented as: Demented through her facial expressions and body language and her costume, hair and makeup which will present her instability and split personality. Also, she will be represented as an antagonist as she commits a murder by shooting the antagonist. Finally, she will be represented as subordinate and vulnerable when the antagonist approaches the room and the audience identify that the situation is taking place in the anti hero's mind.
• Role within the narrative: Lara is the anti hero in the thriller opening as she is seen to evoke both positive and negative emotions and feelings from the audience. She begins by evoking sympathy as she is perceived as the victim when she is in a mental institution and is being observed by a professor, she beings seeing flashbacks of her life consisting of her acting intimately wit her lover and being caught by her lovers wife, the second flashback will consist of the anti hero identifying her pregnancy and the final flashback will consist of the anti hero killing the antagonist. The anti hero will then be seen as vulnerable as the antagonist approaches her leaving the anti hero in fear and anticipation as she is helpless.
• Audience response: The anti hero will have an impact on the audiences emotions and feelings causing the audience to respond to the anti hero with fear due to her erotic, demented behaviour but they may also sympathise with her as they underatand that her mind is in control of her actions therefore perceive her as a victim of her own mind. However, during the flashbacks, the audience react differently as they envy her after seeing her with the antagonists lover. These emotions are further supported when the anti hero murders the antagonist causing the audience to feel overcome by shock and fear. Finally, when the antagonist enters the anti hero's room seeking revenge they will respond with anticipation and sympathy as they fear for the anti hero's life as they are unsure of the events to follow. Therefore, the  audience will respond in various ways towards the anti hero due to her major involvement in all the events. 
•  The anti hero will resemble the behaviour of existing anti hero's and antagonists in existing thrillers. For example, in the film 'Psycho', the antagonist is demented and therefore the audience fear his behaviour due to his fragmented mind-set, this is presented effectively to the audience as tension is created when the antagonist is shown onscreen, therefore in order for our target audience to respond in the same way to the anti-hero, she must resemble his particular traits and actions. Furthermore, the anti hero in the film 'The Devil Inside' is also demented and therefore causes the audience to respond with uncertainty and fear as they do not know what to expect from the anti-hero. Based on these representations, the anti-hero of our production will follow certain traits in order to receive the same response from the audience of suspense and excitement due to other feelings that are built up throughout.

• Name: Ivy- can be referred to poison ivy which has negative connotations as it is sharp and has a dark colour resembling her personality which is also dark and unpredictable. 
• Character role: Ivy is the antagonist of the film as she gets revenge from the anti hero when she resurrects from the dead. 
• Age: 15-20, the antagonist and anti hero are of similar ages to show how their personalities and representations contrast making them completely different from one another.
• Gender Stereotype of role: British, Slim build, Brown, long hair as the colour brown connotes darkness and danger making the audience fear the antagonist. She will also be emotionless and confident when she seeks revenge. 
• Costume: During the flashbacks the antagonist will be dressed in formal, light coloured clothing to demonstrate that she is innocent which allows the audience to relate to her. However, when she enters the anti hero's room she is dressed in a dirty white dress to symbolise how she is no longer innocent and has negative intensions seeking vengeance from the anti hero. 
• Hair and makeup: When the antagonist enters the anti hero's room her hair will be straight and it will cover her face hiding her identity making her look more frightening and building tension and suspense for the audience who are able to make predictions about the upcoming events. When her face is revealed she will have a pale face symbolising that she is dead and she will have blood in her eyes making her look more threatening. During the first and final flashback the antagonist will also have her hair straight however it will be behind her ear with natural makeup on to symbolise that she is doing a daily routine innocently. 
• Body language and facial expression: The antagonist will have a straight and upright posture when she enters the anti hero's room. This will make her appearance more frightful and intimidating for the anti hero. She will also have a straight emotionless facial expression with her eyes wide open when she approaches the anti-hero which will cause uncertainty and for the audience as they will be unsure of what the antagonist will do and what she is capable of doing.  However, during the first flashback when she witnesses her husband and the anti-hero behaving intimately she will freeze  and she will respond with an emotional facial expression with tears in her eyes suggesting that she is shocked and devastated by the unexpected revelations. During the final flashback before the anti hero commits the murder, the antagonist is perceived to have a shocked facial expression suggesting that she cannot believe that the anti hero is capable of killing her, she will also have rigid body language suggesting that she is unable to move as she is in major shock. 
• The antagonist will be represented as: Threatening and fearful when she enters the anti hero's room due to her representation through costume, facial expression and body language and the other elements of mise en scene. The audience will feel suspense and anticipation when the antagonist is onscreen due to her dominant role in comparison to the other characters. However, during the flashbacks the antagonist will be perceived as the victim as she is innocent which will evoke feelings of sympathy from the audience towards her. Overall, the antagonist will be represented as dominating and powerful making the anti hero subordinate and vulnerable in her presence.  
• Role within the narrative: The antagonist will be shown in the anti hero's flashbacks at first. She will first be seen to catch the anti hero with her husband acting intimately leading her to react in shock and desperation as she cannot believe what she has witnessed. She is then perceived as looking helpless as she is shot by the anti hero. Finally, she appears entering the anti hero's room where she tries to gets revenge and tries to take her baby from her. The final shot will make the audience feel frightened as we'll as fearing the anti hero's life as she is in danger. 
• Audience response: The audience will respond with sympathy towards the antagonist when they become aware that her lover is cheating on her with the anti hero, and they will also feel sympathy towards her when she is innocently killed by the anti hero. However, when she returns to seek revenge from the anti hero the audience respond with terror and suspense as they are unsure of what the antagonist will do. 
• The antagonist of our production will reflect the actions and appearance of the antagonists from the  films 'The grudge' and 'The exorcist'. These antagonist are both dressed in white which is unconventional and creates more tension and suspicion for the audience as they are unable to understand why they wear white due to their lack of innocence. The antagonist from 'The Grudge' also moves with slowness causing the audience fear and anticipation which is also what we want the antagonist to create for our target audience. Therefore, our female antagonist will pursue these traits and appearance in order for the audience to respond in a similar way.

• Name: Professor 
• Character role: The professor is the protagonist of the film as he has good intensions after he is perceived to be trying to find out why and how the anti hero got into her current state. 
• Age: 25-30
• Gender Stereotype of role: British, Intelligent, knowledgeable, experienced, messy hair, wears glasses
• Costume: The professor will wear a white shirt and a tie followed by a lab coat demonstrating that he is professor and is trying to solve something of importance. The white will also connote his innocence demonstrating that he is the protagonist of the film making the audience have faith in him. 
• Hair and makeup: He will have messy, short hair making him conventional to a professor which highlights that he is intelligent. He will not have any makeup on. 
• Body language and facial expression: The professors body language will be upright to demonstrate that he is serious and knowledgeable in what he does which will make the audience respond by trusting him. He will also have an intrigued facial expression to show that he is shocked and by the revelations and wants to find answers and reasons for the anti hero's mental state. When the anti hero begins to react after seeing the antagonist the protagonist has a confused and worried facial expression after he is unable to see anything highlighting that he is concerned about the anti hero's behaviour and mental state. 
• The protagonist will be represented as:  Trustworthy and considerate as he supports the anti-hero by observing her behaviour and trying to find a solution. The protagonist will be the only character that the audience will be able to trust due to him having good intensions. 
• Role within the narrative: The professor will be perceived to be on his laptop watching something which is later identified as the anti-hero, he is observing her behaviour and taking notes. The audience respond with uncertainty until they see what he is watching, after they are aware of what the professor is doing they have faith in him and confide in him to solve the anti hero's problem. 
• Audience response: The audience will respond by having faith in the protagonist due to his intelligence and they will trust him to find out the anti hero's problem and cure it. In comparison to the other characters, the professor will be the only character in which the audience will be able to rely on and will not fear due to his positive intensions. 
• The protagonist will resemble the qualities and traits of the protagonist from the film '88 Minutes' who is a Psychiatrist, this protagonist is informative and mysterious as he is not shown. Although our professor will be shown to the audience, he should also have a sense of mysteriousness to him in order to cause the audience to feel intrigued and interested in finding out more about the professor.

• Name: Max
• Character role: Anti hero's lover
• Age: 20- 25
• Gender Stereotype of role: British, tall, slim build, short hair, blue eyes. These factors make the lover attractive and make the audience understand why the characters fight over him. 
• Costume: Casually dressed with a t-shirt and jeans, the t-shirt will be of a dark colour such as black to highlight that he lacks innocence as he has an affair with the anti hero committing adultery. 
• Hair and makeup: The lover will have short hair with no makeup. 
• Body language and facial expression: He will have a relaxed posture when he is with the anti hero supported by a loving facial expression towards the anti hero, this demonstrates that he is content with the anti hero. 
• The antagonist will be represented as A cheat as he has an affair making the audience envy him for causing the problems that come after. 
• Role within the narrative: The will be having an affair with the anti hero and is perceived to be acting intimately with her. He will then be caught by his wife however he will not be aware that they have been caught as he does not see his wife. 
• Audience response: The audience will respond to the lover with resent after they Perceive him commiting adultery and his presence will create discontentment for the audience. 
• The anti hero's lover will resemble the love interest who plays 'Tom Cruise' in the thriller film 'Eyes Wide Shut' who is dressed in dark clothing to suggest his lack of innocence which also allows the audience to understand that he commits adultery causing them to react with anger towards the lover. He also acts in a romantic manner making him fit his role as a lover which is supported by his good looks making the female audience admire him as well as feeling disappointed. Therefore, our lover will resemble these qualities and appearance in order to create a similar response of anger and envy towards the lover.

Conclusion

Overall, my characters are conventional to a thriller film due to the Mise en scene elements. I have planned each representation ensuring that I have considered the colours of each characters costumes making them conventional to the thriller genre, for example the anti hero's grey top relates to her personality, their facial expression and body language, and their hair and makeup. When I create my thriller film I will ensure that I follow my plan and make the characters conventional to the thriller genre.