Blog analysis: Group Q1 - 12

We have analysed a group from two years ago (2008-9) and have decided that their video is between a level two and a three. There are aspects from each criteria as to why we think this. For one, in level two, they show a basic level of ability in the creative use of some technical skills. For example, they can hold a shot steady, where appropriate, e.g the pan shot for the building, and when one of the characters is running down the path towards the camera.  
They are also capable of using a variety of shot types, some of which being, over the shoulder shots, mid shots, two shots, pan shots, close ups and zooms. In their production, we noticed a usage of appropriate material to the task set. Their task was to shoot an opening sequence to a thriller. Further to this, they have used a variety of mise en scene techniques to achieve a thriller theme. These include the use of black and white, like the film "Memento", to emphasise the blacks in the darkness and to instill a sense of mystery. In addition to this, lighting has been kept minimal to enhance the previous black and white effect. Their setting is established within the town area. this allows the viewer to see the character in an encapsulated surrounding, giving a sense of entrapment. To conclude, use of Mise - en - scene, we believe that the overall level of the work on the video is good.
The only sound used within the media product was non diegetic background music. It adds to the intensity of the chase occuring throughout the video. However, the music kept changing, from one that would suit the scene well, to one which did not. This distracted us, as an audience, which could have led to missing vital parts of the clip if happened throughout the film. Overall, we feel that the choice of music was adequate but not exceptional. 
The use of titles was simple. They were in red, over the black and white image, however, they did not stand out as well as they could have done. They were spaced far apart from eachother, therefore interrupted the viewing of the opening sequence as it would have been forgotten that there were any credits. 
In conclusion, the overall mark we would give the video would be a level 3 as they have shown evidence of understanding the conventions of a thriller opening sequence in a creative manner.


Tom, Laura, Joe, Esther and Lily