screen Language
is a language you need to learn and continue to learn.
complex integration of visuals and sounds.
adds layers to the story which goes beyond the words on the page of a script.
Taxi Driver
directed by martin scorsese - example of how a director can add layers to a story
made on location with no special effects, scorsese created a complex story.
Travis - Ordianary Clothes , Every Man, metamorphis, unstable, racist anti hero, saviour, avenger.
selfish contradicts himself.
Betsy - white dress (pure/angel), in control, lover, truth. most normal person in whole film
Iris - Friend, Understands/ Blind Hero/ Innocence
U
Subsidary Characters are invested in, given depth and costume. Unique, Distinct and invested in.
Suit of Armour - when a character has a "suit of armour" when they put it on they are going to do something.
Setting -
time/setting/tone/character/mood/authenticity/story
locations are framed, around but not near people.
Camera
Travis appears big in the frame, the interviewer is small and low angle.
Travis is always coming at the camera
Camera pans around almost like we are travis.
prowls
Lighting and Colour
Red is the predominant colour
colour pallete is important to think about.
Editing/Rhythm
often non linear
Sound/Music/Detail
noir vibe, pulse, heartbeat, gets more aggressive as film goes on, parts are lament,
Perception/perspective
How you frame as director is the key factor on how the audience perceives the story
Key Director Moments
How you choose and present the characters
Where you set the story
how you frame and light the story
how you edit the story rhythm tone mood sound
Casting
What cast do I need?
Break Down your script into the requirement of cast, aim to cast all of the main characters, any passerby/extra type roles can be filled by friends as long as they are appropriate to the role.
Cast people suited for the role, cannot change important aspects just to make it easier to cast. Ok for american characters to be british.
if you have to change the character it has to be for a very good creative reason.
Character Profile
once you have broken down the script for the casting, create a character profile for each of the cast required, this will help you start to picture the person, and will help in advertising the role, even if you won't see these during the film,
Casting the rules
1 - be very clear that this is a student project.
2 - offer as a minimum, to any actor working on your project, travel expenses, food and drink and a copy of the finished project.
3 - every actor/contributor needs to sign a contributor consent form and ideally the artist contract.
Found under forms and useful information
isn't legally binding, but enables you to have a very clear understanding with anyone you engage in your project.
4 - whilst you may not be paying the actors take the approach that this is a proffesional relationship, treat them with respect at all times. they will be giving up their time so make sure it is a worthwhile experience for them
5 - good communication is key to finding and keeping the cast. (time/place/pick up points/ call sheet etc.
use a suitable communication tool such as email.
finding your cast
make sure that your script is ready and complete
character profile
schedule locked
output
extra info that might be important.
once project is ready and packaged find your actors
Two ways
Find someone directly
place an advert for the project roles.
Be precise in the advert
all key information required
StarNow - not just actors on this site
Drama Societies
Drama Courses
Friends who have acted before
whoever you cast must be appropriate to the role
Auditions
Try to arrange an audition or a meeting if you have enough responses.
this can be done at maidstone studios in one of the rooms, big attraction.
Skype Calls
Video Audition
Do not meet anyone on your own, or at your own home.
Be professional, be friendly
get actors to read from the script and/or come with a pre-prepared monologue
record it - if you have a number of people.
Engaging the actor
decide on their appropriateness for the role
ability
commitment
flexibility
attitude
Make sure the actor knows that you chose them because they are perfect for the role, gives confidence
keep the actor fully informed of the project, keeping them engaged.
finding and working with a great actor is a great asset to have, potentially helping you with future projects.
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