Film Project: Pre-production Reflection
The pre-production process started with our group attempting to develop an idea for our film. As a group we came-up with categories that we found interesting. Then, we brainstormed ideas for each of the categories. Next we narrowed down our choices by picking our favorites. We concluded that we would make our film about a day in the life of an RSGC student. The film will be a combination of an Introduction/Orientation and Documentary. We completed the Pitch Outline expressing our ideas and goals of the film, as well as, the resources and settings we would require.
Following the completion of our pitch, we started working on the script which is the backbone of the film. We made a rough draft which showed a more detailed description of the flow of the film. Next, we began to further develop the script adding in dialogue, detailing actions and defining setting or location.
Following completion of our script we moved on to storyboarding. Our storyboard was made up of a series of simple drawings. Each drawing represents a different shot and includes the camera angle (e.g., high-angle), the location, type of shot (e.g., close-up) and characters. In the written description below each drawing we included details of what was going on in the specific shot.
Overall our group worked well together. We tried to divide the work equally. There were many good discussions about each element of the project. Our discussion usually led us to agreement. We made decisions by consensus. My contribution to the group-decision making process was the same as everyone else’s as we all fully participated in the processes of brainstorming, scripting and storyboarding.
Of the pre-production processes, I found that storyboarding was the most challenging. I found it to be challenging because it was difficult to picture all the elements of the shot at once. It was also complicated to detail everything in a simple drawing. As we moved through the shots, we became more skilled at completing the process. This meant we had to go back to some of the earlier shots and add more detail. I think that of the pre-production processes, storyboarding requires more preparation.
Going through the various processes involved with pre-production is beneficial to the end result. The storyboard and script enable you to have an outline to follow so you are not figuring things out as you go. Overall the film will look more appealing and have a constant flow. By having a script and storyboard, you help make sure that you have identified the characters, settings and resources that will be needed. I see the value in completing scripting and storyboarding.
