We have just entered week eleven, or twelve…despite the amount of weeks,
it has been a good amount of time since our first week of class. Many
changes have occurred since the beginning. I like to think I am more aware
of the industry and movie elements in general. I know I still have a lot
to learn, but I know more than I did, which is an accomplishment in
itself.
Stories and screenwriting. It’s not as easy as it looks or sounds. Having
a great idea does not mean it will make a great story. There are a lot of
elements which go into a script. For instance, the characters must have a
character arc, which basically means they must change over time. Having a
character stay linear, is not what most would call, unique or interesting.
Although, I must say on rare occasions it works. However, it is
recommended the character do something out of the ordinary, surprise the
audience, so to speak. I struggle with the surprise aspect of the
character. I know my character; she is the epitome of me, but what is out
of the ordinary? Can anyone really say? To think outside the box, to
really be creative, is something I still am in the process in developing.
Fred, our screenwriter instructor, is a very helpful resource, however, I
feel there is only so much that can be taught. This quality just comes
naturally for some people, others just need to work extra hard.
My next project, which I’m excited about, is going to be shot
this coming Saturday. The story mocks the concept of religion and how one
enters the “heavenly kingdom.” The traditional St. Peter has been
transformed into a feminist woman, who I have named St. Petra. The story
revolves around a recently deceased businessman who tries to enter heaven
but whose name is not found on the heavenly list. St. Petra, who has done
this job for many many many many years, sees this as just another sinner
who is trying to con his way into heaven, in the end finding he was on the
list the entire time. This comedy, although very light and fun, has had
its share of problems. Alex, my male character, always seems to be
underdeveloped next to the snarky Petra. No matter how many times I revise
this script, Alex just seems to come short of close to being strong. I
have accepted this, and realized that is who he is. He is a business man,
who has his way with the ladies, but is no match for the “all knowing,”
strong minded saint.
I have a wonderful cast, Francis Lansang (Alex), and Nsa Ntuk (Petra), to
go along with a wonderful crew. With my organizational skills, and knack
for getting lucky, I have high hopes that this shoot will run smoothly.
Especially because of the fact I have Ryan Emanuel, who has a skill with
the camera, and other great people with me on the set.

Today, in directing and producing class, Patrick taught us the value of
matching pairs and actor/shooting etiquette. When preparing the camera we
must keep in mind the distance between the actor and the camera. Once this
is done we must mimic our results with the second actor. We use the angle
of intimacy, the line between the subjects, to measure the camera eye
plane. When a moment becomes intimate we use the technique ’shallow” to
move in closer to the subject, on the 90 degree plane.
When filming a dialogue there are two different types of shots- the clean
and dirty shot. The clean shot includes the actors face without viewing
the other actor’s shoulder of head within the shot. The dirty shot is the
opposite, this shot does include the other actor’s head and shoulder. It
is important to know that the director or photography does not call
framing, the director does. When working with actors it is best to run
through only about six or seven lines in order to keep their energy. It is
also important to make sure not to use any negative words that would
hinder their attitude or confidence in any way. For instance instead of
using the word “cut” the director might use the word “ok.” This is ensure
a close relationship with the actor, in order to receive a great
performance.
I found this information to be very helpful. I know how have a sense of
how to interact with my actors on a director level. This information will
become essential advice when working on my student film project that is
around the corner.

When considering the Berkeley Digital Film Institution program there were
many reasons to decline the offer and only one reason to accept- the drive
to become a filmmaker. With the help and support of many, I was able to
find the courage to accept such a valuable offer. The BDFI program will
enable me to learn all aspects of film production as well as gain the
experience and skills to understand the business of filmmaking.

The first week of film school was very new. I did not know what to
expect. The first day of class, I realized I was the youngest of the
whole group, which made me feel uncomfortable. I automatically felt
intimidated, feeling as though my lack of “life experience” and lack of
film knowledge were going to hinder my experience at BDFI. Despite these
concerns, surviving the first week proved me incorrect. My fellow
classmates are taking this program for the same reasons, in a sense, we
are all in the same boat. Each of them are unique, as time progresses we
will each have our strong points and our true colors will show.
Regardless of my age, I indubitably have something to offer. Insecurities
will only hold me back. Being new to the film production scene is the
whole reason why I decided to take these classes; I came here to learn
about film production.