Dissertation Unit: Research

Just stumbled upon an article written today for the Independent, which relates heavily to the basis of my dissertation. 

Article: film is finished - this could be its last oscars

The topic I have chosen to write about, which also interests me, seems to be a very current debate between the digitally enhanced films vs the traditional celluloid. Directors are divided; some embrace the possibilities that digital offers, whereas others prefer the raw artistic quality with film. It has been likened to the vinyl record of the film industry. However, the article claims that digital is winning. Even so, on the amateur filmmaking end of the spectrum, it's not uncommon to find digital imagery altered to look 'film-like'. One prime example in reference to photography, is the application known as Instagram. 

I have been following a film called Side by Side (Keanu Reeves, http://sidebysidethemovie.com), which sparked my interest in this debate in the beginning, and where cinema and film will be taken in the future. It has just been released in British cinemas. 

Dissertation Unit: Project Brief

For this unit, I will be writing a 9,000 word dissertation. My initial working title is:

"How has storytelling been affected by advances in technology and developments in audience viewing habits/platforms?"

The key words in which my research is based upon are storytelling, technology and platforms. In addition, my interests have brought me to global ecologies of production shaped by new platforms and technologies, and the impact of digital technology on film aesthetics. Digital production processes have opened up a whole range of possibilities to enable the creation of 'whole imaginative environments', which are familiar to the 'virtual' worlds in computer gaming. The quality of audiovisual imagery has improved dramatically, therefore, is there pressure for TV and film makers to meet these increasingly high standards of imaging to remain competitive?

I'm also interested in the expectations from a new generation of media audiences and their modes of consumption, and the impact this has for 'content creators' when considering distribution and the convergence of platforms. Within this, I'm looking at the accessibility of movie production technology for low-budget film makers and the platforms in which they use, such as 'virtual festivals' and YouTube, where expression and involvement is encouraged. Moving onto the benefits of new technology and experimentation for commercial industries, music videos and advertising agencies. 

Audience pleasures and narrative relationships have changed, it differs from the golden eras of television and film. There is far more flexibility, interactivity and user-generated content available. Narrative expectations have changed along with viewing habits.

Production Concept Unit: Project Brief

The task is to create a simulated large-scaled production package for the current programming schedules. The idea should aim to be innovative and not limited by budget.  

The package would typically include a script, treatment, storyboards, casting, locations, set designs, prop designs, test shoots, trailer and promotional material. The package should have the potential to go into actual production. 

As my strengths and career focus is directed towards producing content and in cinematography, I'll be aiming to create the branding, style and title sequence. With other elements including camera tests, storyboards, mood boards. 

I'll be continuing my collaboration with Lauren, working on a production based in the U.S., with themes of the future, technology and corruption.