Mark Berger, a genius in his own right, gave a phenomenal lecture yesterday. We focused on the ways music can elicit emotions during particular scenes. We watched clips from Touch of Evil and Playing by Heart, and we discussed the politics behind the director’s creative control and the studio’s forceful hand “trying to make things better.” The class was very engaging because we individually explained our personal reactions to a scene based on its music. Questions like: “How does this scene make you feel?” rarely are asked in practical production courses. It was refreshing to analyze the theoretical elements of these films.

Mark treated us by passing around a deck of cards used in Apocalypse Now! The students really got a kick out of that. Not only is Mark a fabulous instructor, but he is also a very warm and personable guy. His jokes about his experiences in the industry keep the classes enjoyable and fun. Each week my appreciation for Sound in film increases immensely. This is no doubt one of my favorite classes!

Marlenee Emigh had her very first Berkeley Digital Film Institute shoot this weekend! Every aspect of it was remarkably stress-free. Even though I was the producer of her project, I cannot take the credit. Marlenee spent so much time on her pre-production that it really paid off.  Her thoughtful casting, skillful art direction, and enthusiasm proved to be most beneficial for the shoot day.  I was worried that she was too ambitious for her first project by straying away from the minimal criteria, but it proved to be a futile worry. (For example, at one moment, we had eleven people in the living room waiting for a particular scene. Chaos could have ensued, but the professionalism of BDFI and its students prevented any slight hints of potential catastrophe!) As everyone is the week before her first shoot, Marlenee was anxious, worried, and excited — all at once. It was immensely rewarding to watching her evolve throughout the whole process. I felt like protecting her in my womb, trying to make her feel secure with encouragement. When her face lit up after the last shot, I felt like my emerging filmmaker had just cut her own umbilical cord.

Taking care of your crew is one of the most crucial aspects of any and every film shoot. (First of all, a well fed crew is a happy crew!) Individually, each member of Marlenee’s crew admitted that this was the most stress-free, enjoyable student shoots he or she has been to yet.  They were surprised that things could actually run so smoothly. To be honest, I was shocked but glad simulataneously. We were on schedule at every beat and even finished early! Marlenee knew what she wanted, had confidence in her actors, and never exhibited the slightly indication of overwhelming stress. If you respect your crew, they will take care of you — meaning, they will passionately strive to assist with your creative endeavor. I, personally, would have NO qualms about working with any of these individuals again, in any capacity: Margaux, Emmanuel, Joel, Chuck, and Marlenee of course. I am so inspired by the quality of students admitted to this film school. It really cannot be emphasized enough. We have so much fun together on and off set. There is no doubt that we’re building long lasting friendships!

I can’t wait to observe the post-production process. This will surely be a quality product. “Arthur’s Mirror” is coming soon! Congratulations, Marlenee!!

Eric shoot last night was amazing. Although the shoot ran until 2AM in San Francisco, I’d say it was the best one yet. The student crew knows each other so well that everything is shorthand now. We can almost finish each other’s sentences, making the film shoot super efficient. Most importantly, we have a great time. Five minutes doesn’t go by without a handful of jokes — and I love it.

The synergy of Berkeley Digital Film Institute is definitely not hyped up enough.

My second project wrapped a couple of days ago, and I realized the importance of pre-production.  Because I scrutinized over storyboards, it really kept the momentum during the shoot. I definitely obsessed over casting.  I auditioned 15 women for the role, but then realized the perfect actress was right under my nose!  Fellow Berkeley Digital classmate, Gina Mooers, jumped in and did a fabulous job!  I was able to have 150% confidence in my cast.  It makes the production less stressful!

I realized the importance of collaboration.  My crew members really took advantage of the stylized lighting I envisioned, and had a ball.  Having a  reliable crew  is more important than I could have imagined.  Our student projects would be nothing without our peers.