Preliminary Task

This task was carried out prior to the filming of the two minute thriller opening.It was focused purely on the filming a one minute sequence showing a simple conversation.To achieve this, a variety of camera shots had to be used.Once completed, the footage had to be edited to form one continuous sequence.

By carrying out this task, experience using a camera, tripod and tape was gained. It enabled all members of the group to try a variety of camera angles and positions. Some problems occurred such as unwanted background noise or people walking past which interfered with the characters talking. The recognition of these potential problems allowed us to be prepared for when filming the actual two-minute opening.

 Looking back on my preliminary task, I have learnt various new technical skills as well as how to create an effective sequence. The preliminary task was of a low standard due to lack of experience and knowledge regarding continuity. Another potential reason for this was lack of audience feedback which was only collected when filming the actual task. This task was given stricter guidelines whereas the preliminary task was more vague therefore more errors were made.

When compared to the finished task, a significant improvement of filming is visible. Therefore, it is clear that I have progresses since carrying out the initial task. The preliminary task did however enable this to happen as it acted as a starting point to improve upon.

Sound analysis of 'What lies beneath' opening

The sound employed in the opening of this thriller has a significant impact on the viewing of the film by  providing the audience with a greater understanding of the narrative. The sounds used evokes a response from the audience by reflecting the characters' emotions as well as emphasising certain occurrences in the scene. Their effectiveness can be recognised by the tension and suspense they are able to build. Within the scene, techniques such as diagetic, non-diagetic, parallel sounds, on and off screen sounds have been employed. 

As the protagonist walks towards the bathroom, non diegetic sound can be identified through the form of a background sound track. It is a calm and subtle yet eerie sound that infers the intensity of the atmosphere. The tension causes the audience to be more aware of potential occurrences. It is also used to convey the character's emotions which in this case involves fear and nervousness. The music then intensifies in volume as the character is seen reaching towards the door which signifies danger to the audience. It creates expectations for the audience who would assume of someone's presence. The sense of mystery created by the music can be associated with the antagonist.

Non diegetic off screen sound can also be noticed when the sound of wind is heard. It creates a cold intense feeling that heightens the helplessness and fear of the protagonist. This is a generic convention of a thriller film as it creates an enigma for the audience which may also associate the sound with the antagonist's presence without him being revealed. A hidden villain is stereotypical of the thriller genre as it creates an enigma as well as providing anticipation.

Diegetic sound can also be identified in the opening scene when the light switch is pressed on. This adds further impact to the soundtrack which has a purpose of building up tension. The sound of the light switch adds an essence of realism that the audience is able to relate to. This compliments the flickering of the light which creates further tension and suspense. Diegetic sound is used throughout the scene such as when the character portrayed as the victim enters the bathroom. This makes the scene more real to the audience allowing them to relate to the events as well as conjuring up a fear of it happening to them. This sound can also be classed as parallel as it works in unison with the movement of the character. 

As the opening sequence progresses, further diegetic sound is used in the form of the protagonist's heavy breathing. This is conventional to the thriller genre as it infers the protagonist's panic and fear. This allows the audience to experience the emotions felt by the woman; almost making them feel like they're placed in her situation. This evokes anticipation as the viewers are put on edge. 

This research has provided me with knowledge regarding the conventional sounds used in thrillers. It has also developed my understanding of the different types of sound and the effect they have on the scene. This has provided me with ideas in regards to choosing a suitable soundtrack and sounds that will create tension and build up suspense to give the viewing of the film a greater impact. 

Planning of sound

Sound is a vital element of thrillers used to evoke the needed emotions in every scene. Infusing the sound in accordance to the visuals shown on the screen creates the needed thrilling atmosphere. The most conventional uses of sound involve loud noises followed by a long established silence and the sound of footsteps which builds anxiety and tension. The overlaying track is also a vital contribution that provides a tone to the scene and so has an emotional impact on the viewing of the film for the audience. It is able to cause the desired audience response, provide the audience with a further understanding and potentially foreshadow the events.

Diegetic sound is the sound whose source is visible on the screen or whose source is implied to be present by the action of the film such as the voices of characters and sounds made by objects in the narrative. It's most significant use is to enhance the realistic pleasures of the thriller. It prevents the
scene to seen unrealistic as the image is reflective in the sound. 

The opening sequence will feature diegetic sounds such as;

- the phone disconnecting (illustrating the victim being failed by communication which leaves her in a vulnerable and helpless position where she is isolated from the outside world which would potentially help her in a life threatening situation)

- heartbeat (illustrating the anxiety felt by the victim which is associated with a quickened heart beat due to a rush of emotions)

- footsteps (a subtle sound of footsteps will be heard when the protagonist walks from room to room)

- rushed breathing (this illustrates the victim inhaling drastically due to panic and anxiety)

Off-screen sound is sound that is heard yet it's source is unknown. The audience will not be aware of when the sound will be made and so this will generate an instant unpredicted element of fear.
This type of sound will be used when a loud noise coming outside the victim's bedroom will be heard. Its source will not be seen or known which will create an enigma for the audience who may associate the sound with the antagonist's presence.

Non diegetic sound is the sound whose source is not visible on the screen and has not been implied to be present in the narrative such as the background track playing over scenes. It is used to enchance the tension in the scene and therefore create a suspenseful atmosphere. It is a conventional sound technique as it conveys a theme or a feeling to the audience; the sound used in the thriller genre mostly conveying fear and tension.

The opening sequence will feature a significant non diegetic sound which will be background music. It will be obtained from the website http://freesound.org which gives access to soundtracks that are copyright free. The desired track will be slow and steady while building up tension and increasing in pace in order a dark, unsettling mood which makes the sequence thrilling and full of suspense. The background sound will be parallel meaning the music tone and mood will be suited to the action seen on screen i.e. complimenting the sequence. It will therefore emphazise the mise-en-scene as well as providing tension and suspense.

Sound analysis

Sound is a very important generic convention that enhances how the audience interpret certain events by giving a different meaning to a scene as well as potentially foreshadowing the events. The music used within an opening would have an impact on the mood and tone of the sequence as well as the emotions felt by the audience.

Sound Bridge is sound used to link two scenes, by having the picture and the diegetic sound change at different points. Usually the sound from the second scene is heard before we start to see the picture from that scene. This gives the film a sense of coherency that affirms a film's continuity therefore this is a technique used in all thriller productions.

High pitch sound is slightly eerie, yet calm to build suspense for future scenes. This can be a sudden screeching noise that arises suddenly; symbolising potential danger or death.
e.g. This is implemented in the 'Psycho' shower scene where the screeching sound arises suddenly and instantly indicates danger to the audience. The high pitch of the sound makes the audience feel uncomfortable and weary of the action of the stabbing. 


Diegetic Sound is sound that belongs with the frame and what you would expect to hear following the narration or action in that scene. For example a door being opened may consist of the door creaking.
e.g. although this is used in all films, the thriller 'Black Swan' can be used as an example with the  sound of doors, rustling of people's coats, sound of the train on the tracks, people talking in the background are all heard on the train scene. 

Non Diegetic Sound is sound that has been edited into the frame after the scene has been created.Usually to emphasize, exaggerate or increase the sound of what would have been a diegetic sound.
e.g. This can be seen in 'Prom Night' through the opening of the envelope which consists of desperately wanted results. The sound is prolonged and exaggerated to intensify the scene by building up tension. 

Silence is when a scene is edited and no sound is displayed. Silence is able to create tension and suspense or even dramatic effect. 

e.g. This can be seen in 'Crash' where a little girl gets shot and her scream is muted which is extremely dramatic as the audience is able to focus on the expression on her face rather then the noise she makes. 

Parallel sound is when the sound and the image complement each other so the action and sound display similar aspects.
e.g.This can be seen in 'Scream' with one scene in particular where fast pace music starts to play as soon as the victim escapes from the back of the van and starts running. This makes the audience alert of the chase scene which is complimented by the sound. 

Contrapuntal Sound is when sound and image do not complement each other, for example happy music playing over a sad scene.
e.g. An example of this is in the film ‘Orphan’ before the sting where the sound contradicts the action taking place on screen.

Planning editing styles

Why is editing important?
Film editing is a post-production process of film making that combines separate footage into a continuous sequence. This is a fundamental process that achieves continuity. Continuity editing is simply a style of editing that prevents inherent discontinuity of shots and establishes a logical coherence between shots to make one sequence. The editing guides the telling and pace of the narrative. It can be used to create illusions of danger through the use of fast paced editing styles as well as emphasising certain elements that may not have been necessarily noted.

Editing Terminology

Jump cut

A cut in film editing in which two shots of the same subject are taken from camera positions that vary only slightly

Fade

When an edit fades from a scene into a black background or a black background fades into a scene.

Straight cut

An abrupt cut from one edit to another which may have no significance in the following of the narrative.

Kulvestov effect

This a film editing effect which can be used to hint at emotions without actually showing any.

Dissolve

When an image is blended into another, the other disappears as the other one comes in.

Montage

This is the reverse of slow editing in which shots are quickly joined together in order to create fast paced motion that provides the audience with excitement.

How will your editing styles help to make your thriller conventional?

The thriller opening being limited to lasting two minutes means it cannot involve too many editing effects. However, various editing techniques must be used in order to satisfy the thriller genre conventions. The purpose of those chosen will be to build up tension, intensifying the atmosphere and so providing the audience with anxiety and excitement. To achieve this, a fade effect will be used on the credits as they will prolong the scenes which will give the illusion of scenes drifting in and out as the tension rises. When the events become more thrilling, jump cut editing will be used to fasten the pace of the thriller. For example, a close up shot of the victim on the phone will cut to her turning around to emphasize her sudden movement caused by a loud sound.The credits of the production company will dissolve into the first scene as slow editing must be achieved.

Alfred Hitchcock

Alfred Hitchcock (13 August 1899 – 29 April 1980) was given the title of England's best director and producer after pioneering many techniques in the psychological thriller genre. After directing more than fifty films, he was regarded as the most influential filmmaker of all time that shaped modern cinema. He had a distinctive and recognisable style of directing which gained him a renowned position in the film industry. He was known as the 'Master of Suspense' due to his ability to put the viewers on edge through his use of characterisation, symbolism, surprise endings and twists. He was also known for the movement of the camera that reflected a character's gaze as well as many other techniques of editing.

Hitchcock’s films usually focus on murder with a frequent use of deception and mistaken identities that enliven the plot. Many of his plots involve a mistakenly suspected or accused of crime innocent man who must then clear his name. A few of his films also involve psychopathic murderers whose identity is not revealed instantly such as in 'Psycho', 'Shadow of a Doubt' and 'Rope'.

In order to create tension, he would use a variety of different shots such as the character's point of view alternating with long shots showing the character. The use of shadows can also be seen in his films 'Suspicion' and 'Saboteur' which then became a convention of thrillers by providing the audience with unsettling suspense. The characterisation seen in his films tends to be strong and effective, often able to  make the audience empathise with both the protagonist as well as the antagonist in scenes where the antagonist is in danger of being caught.

Hitchcock became a credible director due to his innovative camera viewpoints,editing techniques and effectual soundtrack music. However, his greatest ability was to evoke human emotions that gave his psychological thrillers great impact while maintaining their believability.His directing style is conveyed by  'There is no terror in the bang, only in the anticipation of it' which is what he once stated. This illustrates how he believed the build up of tension in thrillers is more effective than the climax. This idea was then developed and can be noticed in the current thriller genre where the suspense build up is prolonged throughout the entire film, keeping the audience on edge.

Researching a renowned director of the thriller-making industry allowed me gain information regarding the content of  a successful thriller.By learning about the techniques used by Alfred Hitch-cock, I was then able to use this when making my own production. Not only was this inspiring but it was also helpful when writing the narrative as I was aware of what was required i.e. putting viewers on edge. Analysing a thriller created by Hitchcock such as 'Psycho' also provided me with ideas such as a hidden identity of the psycho which is conventional of the thriller genre as it generates suspense. 

Individual Storyboard

The individual story board consisted of personal ideas that were then combined with the ideas of the other group members in order to create the group storyboard. Creating this required an in-depth understanding of the narrative. Therefore every frame had to be discussed in detail. This was achieved out by an evaluation of every member's individual storyboard which enabled sharing of ideas. The individual storyboard shown below outlines the camera shot,location,lighting,actors,dialogue,sound and editing. As well as textual evidence of having planned each scene, images have been used to prevent misinterpretation of the ideas.

In order to combine ideas, the individual storyboards were rotated round giving all members a chance to develop an understanding of each other's narrative ideas. Then decisions were made regarding if any specific frames were effective, if frames should be combined or if it was necessary to come up with a completely new idea for that frame instead. This involved a critical analysis of all the frames as well as positive feedback that allowed a selection of frames to be moderated and then included in the group storyboard.

Opening scene narration

The beginning of the opening scene will be inter weaved with credits of the production company through the use of a laptop. The credits overlaying a blank black screen will reflect the screen of the laptop; almost being typed by the character. The shots will then alternate between credits and a mid shot of the character. The character being Grace Davies who plays the role of the victim will be seen and heard talking on the phone while typing on the keyboard. Her conversation however will be interrupted by a sudden noise from outside the bedroom. Associating the sound with her mum having forgotten something, she will call out to check. Without a response, Grace will reassure herself that the sound meant nothing. She will be proved wrong when the laptop screen turns off and the mobile phone disconnects simultaneously; cutting off all connection which is suggestive of the obessor's presence.

Affected by the events, a tracking shot will be used to follow the main character that will check for anyone’s presence before entering the bathroom. The next shot will be situated in the bathroom when Grace enters and the light is switched on. A medium close-up shot of Grace will then be shown as she splashes water over her face; her make-up running down her face. Shaken up, she will attempt to call her mum yet the number will not be recognised and so the call will fail.

The camera will then follow the main character as she rushes back back to the bedroom; focusing on her hand pushing the door open through the use of a close-up.The fast pace editing will be used to build up tension within the atmosphere. Grace will be seen walking back into the bedroom, her shadow on the wall. The outline of her will be positioned in the centre of the frame as a shadow of a hand reaches from behind and grabs her. This will cause her to drastically turn around and gasps, creating the illusion of the shadow being the antagonist. Although his presence will be suggested, his identity will remain unrevealed. This next shot will be of credits that display the name of the director followed by the title of the thriller film.

A soundtrack will be overlaying the actions seen in the opening of the thriller. This will be used to effectively build tension as well as to reflect the emotions felt by the victim. Non-diegetic sounds will also be used to exaggerate the sounds that may be inconspicuous. Diegetic sound effects will simply support the occurrences  in the scene. The sounds that will be used are outlined in detail on the post named 'planning of sound'.

'Prom night' opening scene M-E-S

Mise-en-scene refers to everything in the scene. It consists of five elements; settings and iconography, costume, hair and make up, facial expressions,body language,lighting and colour as well as the positioning of characters and objects within the frame. 

In the above sequence of prom night, a variety of mise-en-scene has been used. The scene is set in a ball room which gives the false impression of a calm environment in a location where danger is not expected. This is used to mislead the audience, preventing them from predicting the events. Although this may not be seen as a conventional location of the thriller genre, it is a real-life situation. Therefore it has an essence of realism; the theme being a common fear of many individuals. This is conventional as the audience is able to relate to the fear felt by the character.

Significant iconography has been used seen with examples such as the envelope that held the results stating who was going to be crowned prom king and queen.This shows how iconography has an emotional impact on the characters as everyone seemed anxious and desperate to find out the results which was prevented by the alarm going off.        

However a more significant element of iconography is the fire extinguisher which the antagonist breaks through the door with. The iconography is bright red which connotes danger that is also associated with the antagonist. The colour red is conventional to the thriller genre as it is sub-consciously associated with blood and potential death.

This connotation is also conveyed with a knife which is yet another example of effective iconography. The knife being held by the antagonist when threatening the victim instantly presents the man as a menacing character. It is sharp and instantly represents pain that the antagonist desires to inflict upon the victim. 

The costumes that are seen throughout the scene are formal suits and dresses which are not associated with the events of the scene;showing the spontaneous way in which the plot unfolds. The antagonist is revealed to be a middle aged man with a rough unshaven appearance. His black casual clothing has a connotation of danger with a baseball hat slightly covering his identity.The look in his eyes instantly illustrates his psychotic approach towards the victim. This contrasts against the blonde hair and nude colour of the victim's clothing that connote innocence and purity. The victim being a fragile and innocent female is a common convention seen in thriller films. Not only in the way the victim is portrayed but also how the thriller portrays the female gender. This convention also applies to the antagonist which also follows the generic conventions i.e. black clothing. 

The lighting used throughout most of the scene is low key as it creates dark shadows which convey a fearful atmosphere. It is also used for greater impact when the antagonist comes into the light from the darkness. Dark lightening is conventional to the thriller genre as it promotes suspense and mystery.It also hides the antagonist's identity and creates an enigma as to who it is. Flickering light is also a feature used to foretell the killer's presence, intensifying the scene. The darkness of scenes is conventional to the thriller genre as it creates a fear of the unknown. Shadowing is also conventional as it prevents the audience from being exposed to everything instantly. Instead, tension is built which allows significant recognition of certain elements. 

The positioning of the characters varies throughout the scene. However, one of the most prominent uses of positioning has been achieved in the hotel suite scene. In this scene, the victim is shown next to the closet where the mirror shows the antagonist behind her. The victim being central in the frame makes her the main focus. The antagonist's hand is seen coming out of the darkness which is conventional as his identity is not revealed instantly. His hand suggests his presence to the audience yet not to the on-screen character which creates tension when viewing the scene.

The facial expressions and body language give an insight into the emotions felt by the characters. When the security alarm goes off, the students seem unaware of the seriousness of the situation and do not act upon instruction instantly. This is shown by their slow movement and lack of action. A more suited reaction can be seen by the victim who is faced with a life-threatening situation. Shock and fear is presented when the victim attempts to escape from the killer.This is conventional of a thriller as it creates tension which is felt by the audience. It allows a connection to be built between the character and audience who are able to empathize with the character's predicament.

This research will assist me when creating my thriller as it has provided me with knowledge concerning all elements of the scene. It has enabled me to understand how mise-en-scene must be planned clearly as it has a great impact on the audience.

Risk assessment

It is  important to consider risks before filming due to basic health and safety rules which should be applied to all members of the group. By assessing each potential risk, the possibility of injury is minimised. This prevents having to stop filming temporarily as a result of someone getting hurt.

The risk assessment will outline the areas that are considered unsafe as well as minimizing the risk of of damaging the equipment.

Hazard	Hazard prevention
Background noise	The filming of the opening scene cannot be disturbed by unwanted sound and so no one apart from the members within the production will be present.
Low battery on camera	The camera will be fully charged before filming but a back-up lead will be available in case of low battery.
Lighting	The sequence must be set in the night so it must be dark yet visible.
Tripod	The tripod will be set evenly on the ground so it does not fall and no damage will be caused.
Household objects	Filming in a house means that all objects need to be moved out of the way so no one trips over while filming.
Loose cables	All cables must be moved out of the way so no one trips over them and equipment does not fall over.

Group Storyboard

After collaborating on the group narrative by interweaving ideas from all individual narratives, a group storyboard was created. Each frame has been illustrated by a basic sketch and its content has been detailed; focusing on location,iconography,camera angle and sound.Although this was fairly time consuming, the planning stage is vital as it organises each scene to make the filming of the opening sequence easier.

FIlming schedule

A filming schedule is a project plan of the shooting required for the production of the opening  sequence. It represents a timeline stating what events happen at what location and at what time. The resources are also stated; mostly involving basic filming equipment used along with a camera.The shot type and its content is also shown so it is clear when filming. This enables the shooting of the sequence to run smoothly as it has been previously organised. The filming schedule can be used alongside the storyboard whilst filming. The scenes have been broken down  into shorter and more manageable sections with all equipment and props outlined in advance. This prevents wasting time on going back to get forgotten items.Each shot is estimated to take fifteen minutes to film however contingency time can be used in case of the scenes taking longer to set up and film.

When filming, the filming schedule was strictly followed however an extra scene had to be added in between scene 12 and 13 to show the main character get from one location to the next. Due to the fast pace of the scene, it was decided that the character should walk rapidly; slowing down before getting to the bedroom door. It is also unknown whether the ending flashbacks will be used due to the two-minute limit of the opening sequence. This will be decided in editing where all scenes will be put together.