Evaluation Question 1

Final Cut- Submited extract

Final AS coursework piece

Final cut

This is my final cut media product.

mini brief

This was my mini brief final cut.

Evaluation Question 7

I choose to submit my evaluation question 7 as a moovly which was what I felt I had learnt since the preliminary task

Evaluation question 6

Podcast for Evaluation Question 6

Evaluation Question 4&5

This is my Evaluation Question 4 and I choose to do a podcast.

Evaluation Question 3

I choose to complete Evaluation Question 3 in a prezi format to express key elements and details of media instiutions.

Evaluation Question 2

This is my evaluation question 2 in which I decided to portray through a video mode.

Barthes Enigma Theory

Roland Barthes described five codes which are woven into any narrative.
Firstly the Hermeneutic code refers to any element of the story that is not fully explained and hence becomes a mystery to the reader. The purpose of the author in this is typically to keep the audience guessing, arresting the enigma, until the final scenes when all is revealed and all loose ends are tied off and closure is achieved.
The Proairetic Code also builds tension, referring to any other action or event that indicates something else is going to happen, which hence gets the reader guessing as to what will happen next. The hermeneutic and Proairetic codes work as a pair to develop the story tensions and keep the reader interested.
The semantic code, this code refers to connotation within the story that gives additional meaning over the basic denotative meaning of the word. It is by the use of extended meaning that can be applied to words that authors can paint rich pictures with relatively limited text and the way they do this is a common indication of their writing skills.
The symbolic code, this is also very similar to the semantic code but acts at a wider level, organizing semantic meanings into broader and deeper sets of meaning. This is typically done in the use of antithesis where new meaning arises out of opposing and conflict ideas.
The cultural code, refers to anything that is founded on some kind of canonical works that cannot be challenged and is assumed to be a foundation for truth.

Horror Certifications

This photo identifies the different certification ages in which are allocated to specific films when distributed to the public audience from the media institution. Horror films most commonly fit into the certification age label of 15 or 18, this is because these ages allow unnatural images, frequent strong language, portrayals of sexual activity/nudity, discriminatory language or behaviour and drug taking.

Editing Update

This our editing feedback which revealed we had a lot of work to do in order to get our media product to the best of our ability and to create a scary horror film. The feedback revealed we had some non diegetic sound which build and created a tense and suspense atmosphere, however we lacked diegetic sound in which we need to develop within our media product. In order to improve we need to focus more on the codes and conventions of the horror genre in order to ensure the genre is represented and the media product provides our targeted audience with a spine chilling film.

Main Brief Storyboard

This is our media groups storyboard for our main brief media product.

Evaluation Post- Mise En Scene

Mise En Scene plays a very important role in representing the codes and conventions of the horror genre, this is generated through the following elements: Setting, Props, Lighting and colours and Costumes. The setting/location of a horror film is extremely significant and are generally enclosed r cut off from civilisation. This supports the stereotype of vulnerability if you are stuck alone in an isolated enclosure with antagonist characters coming after you. The location creates and builds suspense to the viewing audience as it builds a connection with the protagonist character as they are hoping for the characters survival. The locations generally include a Forest, Haunted House, An old Asylum etc, these locations are iconography of the horror genre as they connote danger and create the fear factor. The location of a horror movie establishes the horror genre to the audience therefore the location is extremely important for a successful media product. Secondly the use of Props in the horror genre provide an accurate representation of the horror genre as props such as Knives connote the idea of death, blood, murder etc further revealing the genre to the audience. Lighting and Colours are most commonly in the horror genre are dark and atmospheric, this is as a result of the dark colour scheme which is also used for key iconography of the horror genre as  colours such as black and grey connote mystery and danger. The usage of colour in horror ranges from three colours depending on the sub-genre at play, In a slasher film, the colour red is predominant as the key iconography for blood. Whereas in a typical horror movie, the usage of black and white colours symbolizes the contrast between both the antagonists and protagonists characters. The colour white typically portrays an innocent character typically highlighting the blameless nature of the antagonist character, which could also defy the natural stereotype of a faultless character. Finally Costumes are extremely significant in order to represent the characters within the film, revealing to the audience the protagonist and antagonist characters.

Evaluation Post- Camera Angles and Shots

The use of different camera angles and shots can determine how effective the footage you have captured is representing the horror genre, fulfilling the codes and conventions of the horror genre. The different camera angles and shots portray to the audience the significance of both antagonist and protagonist characters and also reflecting the conventions of the horror genre. Example shots such as a Close up shot can reveal the key iconography of the horror genre, for example in our media product a close up shot reveals blood which is iconography of the horror genre. Close up shots also reveal important details and objects in a scene, showing to the audience which elements play an important role within the narrative and the film. The different camera angles also are able to create a sense of realism, making the audience feel as if they are involved in the conflict or drama unfolding. A point of view shot is used in order to see the film in the perspective of one character. This allows the audience to become emotionally attached to the character or within the plot of the film building greater tension and suspense in the audience.

Evaluation Post- Editing

The use of editing in media products allows for a smoothly run film which engages the audience and keeps their attention solely throughout the media product. Continuity editing also creates a sense of realism, which engages the audience and makes the events that are unfolding appear to be real rather than constructed. This is significant in the horror genre as it promotes a sense of realism in the unnatural events that are unfolding, which connotes greater suspense and tension in the audience. Especially in the horror genre, I have learnt that the use of Jump cuts is significant in order to build and create suspense to the audience and to clearly identify the horror genre and its codes and conventions. As well as the editing technique of cutting rhythm, which determines the speed which things are cut, which is when the camera cuts frequently as a means of interruption. This helps to induce shock and surprise into the audience, which represents the horror genre as an interruption in a scene suggests danger will follow. Finally the use of transitions in editing can imply a change in location and emphasis a connection between characters and their emotions, this helps to provide a connection between the audience and the protagonist character.

Evaluation Post- Sound

My research of sound in general and in the horror genre has informed me that it plays an extremely significant role throughout many media products in order to create and develop suspense within a scene. The use of non diegetic sound in a scene is usually to build suspense and tension, especially in the horror genre, it adds to the suspense and continuous to represent the horror genre. Many sounds, for example a ticking time clock, are key iconography in a horror film, which play an important role in unveiling the narrative and representing the horror genre. Secondly the use of diegetic dialogue in many extracts also plays an important role in building suspense and tension to the audience and also building the connection between the audience and the protagonist character. The diegetic dialogue highlights the narrative to audience and can identify the horror genre through a characters response to dangerous situations. Overall I've learnt that sound can be the pivotal factor in making a scene scary to it having little impact of the emotions of the audience, the use of diegetic and non diegetic sound is extremely significant in the successes of many blockbuster horror films.

Blade- Textual Analysis

The film 'Blade' was released on August 21'st 1998 directed by Stephen Northington, the film is about a half-mortal, half-immortal protagonist who's out to avenge his mother's death and rid the world of vampires. The modern-day technologically advanced vampires he is going after are in search of his special blood type needed to summon an evil god who plays a key role in their plan to execute the human race. The film 'Blade' perfectly represents the generic conventions of the horror genre through the micro elements sound, mise en scene, camera angles and editing, these elements form the audience expectation of a typical horror movie.
The horror movie 'Blade' fits the Todorav theory in which examines the consistent events in a horror film, the repertoire of the elements form the audience expectation of the horror genre and this is based on the beginning middle and end of the film. The Todorav theory begins with equilibrium, which demonstrates the first part of the story will always display a fairly content start where the characters are settled and everything is as it should be. A disruption then follows which will feature a problem that will disrupt the natural events of the film. Thirdly its the realisation of the plot where both the audience and characters realise the problem and its chaos. This theorem is developed in the opening sequence of the horror film 'Blade' as the protagonist shown, a blonde middle aged man is set to believe he is off for a night to remember with the female character. This is emphasised in the dialogue between the characters where the antagonist character says "Its a surprise" which implicates the idea of the two characters are going to interact in a sexual act. The character is then whisked to a unusual location of a meat factory full of dead animal corpses which immediately indicates a strange feeling to the audience however the innocent character thinks nothing of this. The character is then brought into an underground rave with bright flashing lights and loud mysterious music, the event that follows if blood spilling from the ceilings through fire extinguishers supports the disruption event of the Todorav Theorem.
Firstly, in my opinion, the most important micro element of Mise en Scene is portrayed significantly in the opening sequence of the film 'Blade' through the different use of costumes, props and lighting in order to convey the horror genre. The film immediately begins with iconography as the credits are in a bold font all in capital letters, this exaggerates to the audience of the events that are about to occur in the film that they are powerful and thrilling. Secondly the credits are also in red, this is key iconography in the horror genre as the colour red connotes blood which further symbolises death and danger. This also foreshadows the events of the film as blood is apparent in several scenes and has a strong connotation with the actions of vampires. Secondly the opening scene of diologue between the two main characters, i feel reveals alot to the audience through the characters costumes and identity. The female antagonist character is wearing all black leather clothing, the colour back connotes the idea of death, danger and mystery which is key iconography of the horror genre. The black clothing persuades the audience that the character could be revealed as an antagonist as it states a presence of authority even before being clearly identified in the film. The strange leather clothing also may connote a weird sensation or fetish that the female character is obsessed with, which is clearly represented in the opening sequence as the antagonist is revealed as a vampire and obsessed with blood. As well as the characters bold red hair which further stimulates the representation of an 'emo' or 'vampire' which is thoroughly expressed to the audience during the opening sequence of the film. On the other hand the male character is wearing normal everyday clothing of a red jacket and black shirt and a flat cap which can be represented as normal everyday work clothing. The character fits the natural stereotype of a blonde fairly stupid individual whom acts oblivious to the disruption stage in Todorav's theorem. These costumes fit the natural stereotype of a horror movie as the opening sequence always reveals the protagonist and the antagonist, suggesting the characters most vulnerable to the audience to create sympathy for the character. This allows the audience to connect with the protagonist character, engaging their specific targeted audience in the narrative. Lastly on Mise en Scene is the use of enigma to create a mystery for the audience, the use of different unusual locations spark up confusing in the audience as it doesn't match the natural stereotypical horror movie scene. The usual scenes of a horror movie is in an isolated location such as a old house in a forest or a mental asylum far away, in comparison to Blade the setting is rather peculiar in an underground meat factory. The connotations of a meat factory is significant to the narrative of Blade as it reveals danger and death, this is highlighted in the location as their are many hung up dead human and animal corpses allowing these themes to be fulfilled throughout the movie.
The second important factor to represent the horror genre is Sound, in which in Blade the director uses diegetic loud music which sets the tone for the scene that is about to unfold. The use of the loud fast paced music portrays to audience that an event is about to unfold or that something suspicious is going to occur in the location of the protagonist character. A “swish” sound is apparent, which is non-diegetic, this corresponds with the stereotypical theory that vampires are faster than light which adds to the tense and suspense atmosphere which the director has created. The director cleverly inputs short clips of diegetic dialogue which engages the audience building the connection between the protagonist character and targeted audience as it builds sympathy for the character. This is shown as the character screams  “FUCK” in frustration as his date has left him for another woman which continuous to build suspense in the scene as it is uncommon for a women to leave a man for another women. The director continuously cuts to diegetic dialogue throughout the scene as he intends to build suspense and tension throughout the scene, this is important in the extract in order to build a connection between the audience and the protagonist character.
Finally the use of camera angles in this extract is significant as the director uses many different camera shots to portray the codes and conventions of the horror genre to the targeted audience. The director uses extreme close up and close up shots of unveiling objects throughout the scene to identify the key iconography such as blood in order to represent the horror genre. The extreme close up shot builds suspense within the scene as it reveals blood being dispensed from the sprinklers of the room, this continuous to represent the stereotypical view of vampires loving blood as the antagonist audience jump around in excitement. This exaggerates the difference between the protagonist character and the characters around him, which creates sympathy within the audience developing the connection between the character and the audience. These extreme close up shots help also to fit the narrative of Todarov's disruption stage as it portrays the events as an event that's unrealistic and going wrong in the perspective of the protagonist character. The director also uses long shots and pan shots throughout the scene to reveal elements that develop the idea of the narrative and the representation of the horror genre. An example of this is a long shot that reveals the word “BLOODBATH” painted on a white canvas, which represents the horror genre as the word blood suggests death and danger. This also develops the narrative as the phrase 'BLOODBATH' connotes danger or the idea that a threat is going to occur.
The continuity editing throughout this scene also helps to develop this representation as the editing uses jump cuts between the different elements that suggests the horror genre to grab the audiences attention to focus on the horror genre which also builds tension. The fast-paced editing also emphasises the ravers music and the stereotype of the antagonist vampires characteristics building greater suspense within the audience and highlighting the danger in which the protagonist character is in.

Target Audience Questionaire

This question was extremely straightforward and was distributed equally between students and their parents, which I felt would be an appropriate representation of both the younger and older generation and their views. The results have indicated that the most popular target audience is 18+, however this may be as a result of a biased opinion from parents. On the other hand I aimed to gather a representation of the different generations in order to engage all audiences into the idea of our horror genre media product. Although from the results gathered I have resulted that our primary audience is in the age bracket of teenagers to young adults.

The results of this questionnaire shocked me as they reveal disregard towards protagonist and antagonist characters, in which in my opinion I believed to be the main attraction in many films.This result also goes against previous research which has revealed the importance of characters in films. However the results revealed that the narrative is the most significant in the audiences expectation of a horror movie, in which is significant to my research in order to create a good horror media product.



This question reveals the main reason people attend horror movies is for a thrill which indicates that our media product should mainly provide the audience with thrill in order to engage them in the narrative and fulfil the media products expectation

Paranormal Activity Case Study

Paranormal Activity Case Study-$15,000
Paranormal Activity is a 2007 American independent found footage supernatural horror film written, co-produced, photographed, edited, and directed by Oren Peli. It is the first entry into the Paranormal Activity film series. The film centers on a young couple, Katie and Micah, who are haunted by a supernatural presence in their home. It is presented in the style of "found footage", from cameras set up by the couple in an attempt to document what is haunting them.
Originally developed as an independent feature and given film festival screenings in 2007, the film was acquired by Paramount Pictures and modified, particularly with a new ending. It was given a limited U.S. release on September 25, 2009, and then a nationwide release on October 16, 2009. The film earned nearly $108 million at the U.S. box office and a further $85 million internationally for a worldwide total of $193 million.
Initially the Paranormal Activity trailer was uploaded to a website, the producer set up a demand button on the website in the aim that the film would encourage great demand. The producer aimed for 1,000,000 demands in order for the film to broadcasted globally, in which the film smashed this expectation. The producer was able to advertise and spread the word of his film through social media, a continuously growing power of todays society with more and more institutions and companies using social media in order to advertise their products. The most significant social media site was Twitter as the film began trending on twitter which allowed millions around the world to hear about the newest horror movie. As well as using other methods of spreading the word such as Facebook, creating fan pages, or emails sharing the link regarding the film and its heavily increasing demand.
The media institution Paramount pictures then took over proceeding and produced the film globally.

Researching Sound for our media product

The different sounds and music connotes different atmospheres which allows the audience to connect with the movie more deeply and emotionally. The music is very important to create that certain atmosphere, the music in horror movies makes the movie be different, original and powerful. Therefore our media product needs an effective but powerful non diegetic music soundtrack to connect with the audience as the soundtrack will create an unforgettable atmosphere which will make the movie being even more enjoyable and breath-taking.
Music also helps to highlight specific parts and fragments of a movie to make the scene stand out and be different from the others. Even if music started before something appeared on screen, we can assume what it will be this also helps to connect with the audience engaging them in the movie.
The feel of fear or scare are the result of well combined pictures and music, strong emotions are the expectation of every director.
Examples
Jaws has an iconic soundtrack using string and wind instruments to allow the tone and speed to gradually increase creating an intense atmosphere.
Overall I understand I need an iconic soundtrack to engage the audience to relate to the images we have filmed to create the tense atmosphere in order to reveal the fear factor to the audience.

Sound in Horror films

Non Diegetic Music
This is one of the most important aspects of a horror film as it is helping the film try to create a specific mood to the scene, an effective use of music will help promote even more emotions to the audience.
The common conventions of non diegetic sound in horror films include;

• Isolated instruments are often used just before a key event occurs which helps link the idea of vulnerability to the audience.
• Long suspenseful notes often help contrast with short sharp notes to help shock the audience
• Extreme but intentional changes of pitch tones to portray to the audience the feeling of tension and suspense. An example of this is a long brass note which suddenly changes to a very fast high pitched note.

Diegetic Sound
Lots of voices within horror films have been chosen to reflect fear, tensions and panic. The perfect example of this is the Jigsaw in Saw films, his tone of voice is well suited for the part it needs to play as it effectively creates fear and tension because it is very distinctive which therefore stands out most form any other characters. His voice also helps to create an immediate sense of fear, intimidation and power because its has a husky filter with a strong deep tone.


Sound Effects
There are lots of sound effects which can occur in a horror film soundtrack which could include;

• Classic- Crows, bats, owls, church bells, witches laughing etc are all iconic sounds that portray horror connotations to the audience
• Echoed voices- This helps heighten the audiences mood, sense and emotion towards the film which can give quite a ghostly feel.

Camera angles and shots in Horror films

Camera Angles and Shots

• Bird eye/high angle

These shots are used in horrors and thrillers to make the figure or object that is being looked down on seem completely powerless or vulnerable. These shots are mainly expressed showing the antagonist character which is an accurate representation of the horror genre as the antagonist characters usually defy the odds to come out as the hero.

• Close up

Close up shots are most commonly used in the horror genre in order to see the reaction on the characters face which builds tension and suspense. This shot shows the most emotion from the characters within the film which can engage the audience and create a connection between the audience and the characters. It is also used to capture important details and objects in an important portraying the significance of an object/person in a scene.

• Tracking or Panning shot

These shots commonly connote movement and danger, key iconography of the horror genre. These shots are used very effectively in horror and thriller films to make out a character is being followed or watched, it also could establish a scene so the audience can see the full perspective of the scene. The tracking/panning movement also is used to create and build up tension and suspense as the audience are left guessing to what could be shown next on screen.

• Reverse

This type of shot could also be very effective in a horror movie as it could reveal the consequences of the actions that have unfolded and what would of happened if you went back in time. It can reveal a character undergoing realisation and the suspense is built up, as well as a great way to signify flash backs.

• Tilted Angle

Tilt shots add a lot of dramatic tension to shots and could simplify a supernatural being for example, pushing or moving the camera. A perfect example of this shot is used in the film Paranormal activity which builds suspense in the audience, this shot can also be used to get a different shot of incident across to the audience. As well as being used for showing a victim on the floor and the audience being able to see what the character on screen in seeing.

• Low Angle shot

Low angle shots are very powerful in the sense that can emphasize just how intimidating and frightening a protagonist character is. This can effectively be used to portray both the audience and antagonist characters as weak and insignificant and also reveal tension and suspense to the audience.

• Hand held camera shot

A hand held camera shot is often used in horror/thriller films to add a sense of reality, it makes the audience feel involved and adds to the horror of the scene as you feel like you are in the moment of the scene. This is used effectively in the horror film Paranormal Activity as it creates a sense of realism to audience suggesting that the events unfolding could happen to anyone, as well as creating suspense and tension.

• Point of View shot

This shot is taken from the point of view of the character which allows the audience to see the film through the eyes of one character. This is effective in the horror genre as it allows the audience to become emotionally attached and more frightened as it could show for example a gun being pointed directly at the character. This shot builds tension and suspense as it can represent the decision or action between staying alive or dying creating tension in the audience.

• Over the Shoulder shot

This shot is perfect in order to build tension, it is used in a lot of horrors to adds suspense, usually used around mirrors and reflections so the audience can see what's happening as soon as the character does. This is used a lot to show a figure stood behind a victim creating suspense and tension to the audience.

• Zoom

This shot adds to the dramatic effect and creates element of suspense and fear as you don't known what you are going to see next, it also cold be used to zoom into something significant or gruesome. Also being used to zoom into something the audience wouldn't usually of spotted before such as supernatural being, this can add suspense and tension to many scenes.

Editing styles in Horror movies

Editing Techniques
Cut
Firstly a simple but extremely effective editing technique is a Cut, the point of a cut is to keep the audcince interested by changing from one viewpoint to another. There are different variations of the Cut technique such as Jump cut, cutting rhythm. A jump cut is when the camera cuts away suddenly to create a dramatic point which is seen to be used effectively in a number of horror movies such as Scream and Blade. There is also cutting rhythm, which determines the speed of which things are cut and this is to emphasise a specific point. The cutting rhythm links into the cutting rate, which is when the camera cuts frequently as a means of interruption. The point of doing this is to induce shock and surprise into the audience. Another editing technique is the cross-cut which is to cut from one line of action to another. A cutaway shot is the interruption of continuously filmed action by inserting a view of something else, editors use this shots to relate to the main action and emphasise its significance.
Continuity editing
Continuity editing is cutting shots to tell a story with narrative continuity, helping the viewer make sense of the action by implying spatial relationships and ensuring a smooth flow between different shots. Continuity editing also creates a sense of realism, which engages the audience and makes the events that are unfolding appear to be real rather than constructed. The continuity techniques are tehe 180' degree rule which ensures that the same space is described in each shot, secondly an eye line match which is for example when a character looks off-screen the next shot shows us what they see. Thirdly match on action is when a character begins to move in one shot, we see continuation of the same movement in the next shot.
Non- continuity
Non- continuity editing is when the continuity is broken and construction is more apparent, meaning it is often created through juxtaposition and metaphor shot inserts, an example of this in the Six feet under film opening.
Transitions
The process of cutting from one shot to another usually involves a simple straight cut, although there are other means of transition available such as Fade to black and a dissolve/ cross fade transition. A transition shot can imply a passage of time, imply a change in location and emphasise a connection between characters and what they are thinking, remembering or dreaming about.

Social group Representations Theories

Tessa Perkins Theory
A stereotype is an idea that is adopted about specific types of individuals/'groups of people. The thoughts may not always accurately reflect reality. Stereotypes are assumptions made as a result of the way media portrays certain individuals or groups.
Tessa Perkins belives stereotyping is not a simple process and contains a number of assumptions that can be challenged. Perkins identifies 5 such assumptions

• Stereotypes are not always negative
• They are not always minority groups or the less powerful
• They can be held about ones own group
• They are not rigid or unchanging
• They are not always false.

Hebdige Theory
The Hebdige theory is one that presents the youth as either one of 'Fun' or 'Troubled'.
Youth subcultures resist hegemony through style. Hedbige studied youth subcultures in late 1970's focusing on the reality of youth cultures, Hebdige then argues that the representation of youths is very limited suggesting media representation of youths is not reality. Therefore this would effect the representation of youth dramatically as in the medias it suggests that we never get to see the good and hardworking teens of society who just fade into the background. This theory shows that the media in society tends to ignore the good and hardworking and focuses on the fun and troubled. Therefore leading to the stereotypical assumption that all youths behave in either the manner of 'fun' or 'trouble'.




Gerbner- Cultivation theory
The Gerbner theory suggests that the media overestimate crime therefore influencing the perception of crime and society. This shows that youths are always the victims of being involved within crime throughout many different media platforms. This therefore exaggerates the perception that youths commit crimes, automatically effecting the representation of youths portraying them in a negative light. This theory shows that the representation of youths is closely linked to what we see on different media products on television, these then cause peoples perceptions to change on representations depending on what has been shown on the television.

Target Audience in Horror films

Age
As research revealed the most common age for someone watching a horror movie is between the ages of 15 and 25. This age group is targeted as a result in during young adulthood this age group are in the key stages of developing themselves and learning about the world, meaning they want to try new things and experiment with different emotions and feeling they may posses. They want to rush into life and seek all thrill they can grasp, in which horror movies give them this thrill and excite the young audience much easier than an older audience. A young audience is also less sescepible to being put off the film by violence and unnatural images which make an older audience feel less attracted and negative towards the film.
Gender
Males are more likely to be a fan or horror movies as a result of their stereotypical thrill seeking which is portrayed with a boy. Violence is also a significant convention of a horror movies which is often enjoyed by males much less in comparison to young girls. Horror films usually attract groups of friends or couples, as these films bring emotion to the table which connects the audience emotional through fear.
Class
Most horror films are aimed at the working class community as a result of their excitement which is gained from a horror film with a relatively cheap price. In comparison to the higher class, they usually are engaged in a sub genre such as romance or action, which is due to their higher level of satisfaction.

Mise en scene in Horror Films

Setting
Isolated locations are great for gaining a tense fearsome atmosphere, these locations are usually enclosed or cut off from civilisation and help, as the idea of being alone whilst somebody or something is coming after you is much more imtimidating and frightening then there being acces to help. An example of  Horror movie that used a great setting is 'Friday 13th', which is famous for using the forests as a location and is one of the reasons its became a staple of the horror genre. In the Friday the 13th franchise, the forest is used as a way to make the characters feel lost and hopeless of escape. This effect brings suspense and tension to the viewing audience as the get on side of the protagonist character and gives a sense of realism if the audience was put into this scenario. Forest locations are also commonly used at night as the limited vision due to darkness and the covering trees makes the location perfect for a film that wants to have a lot of jump scares.
Props
Props can range from a variety of different objects in a horror genre film stretching from a weapon to a spiritual artifact. Commonly props such as crosses and bibles are used in frightening films such as the Exorcist which portray signs of religions, faith and possessions. Also another regularly prop seen is horror movies is a machete or a knife or some sort and size, these props are not only used for a killing of antagonist characters but they also are used for association for the representation of certain characters. This effect is most of commonly found in the sub-genre Slasher, as it is easily recognizable for the viewing audience.
Lighting and Colours
The lighting most commonly in horror movies is usually dark and atmospheric, this is used to create an effective setting and surrounding for a common jump-scare scene. An example of this is the protagonist character walking in a dark hallway for instance or any other location, the dark lighting conceals whatever or whoever could be hiding in the darkness. Darkness is also a common fear element of a human being, which provides an affect on the audience and its atmosphere as if the same scene was filmed in brightness it would lose its atmospheric volume. The dark colour scheme is also used for key iconography of the horror genre as  colours such as black and grey connote mystery and danger. The usage of colour in horror ranges from three colours depending on the sub-genre at play, In a slasher film, the colour red is predominant as the key iconography for blood. Whereas in a typical horror movie, the usage of black and white colours symbolizes the contrast between both the antagonists and protagonists characters. The colour white typically portrays an innocent character typically highlighting the blameless nature of the antagonist character, which could also defy the natural stereotype of a faultless character. On the other hand the usage of the colour black portrays the evil nature of a character and the representation of the loss of the characters soul.
Costumes
The costumes in a horror genre very significantly as a result of the different sub genres within the films, which can portray different narrative structures throughout the films. There are, however, regularly themes of scary characters such as Halloween masks or clown costumes. The mysterious costumes can contrast the natural stereotype of a villain, as a clown costumes should represent happiness and laughter, whereas in a horror movie a clown will represent danger and the protagonist. Although costumes are also seen as a significant factor in identifying the protagonist and antagonist characters as they are the main focus in the movie.

Media Insitution logos

These are 9 major film institutions and their logos. Universal, Dreamworks and Paramount are prime examples of this. Paramount includes mountains in their logo to link with their name, with DreamWorks and Universal doing the same thing. Universal having an image of the earth and stars in the background and DreamWorks including clouds, a moon and a night sky reminiscent of dreamlike scenery. Also a very visual effect of these logos show that each logo is very large scale which may represent their blockbuster films and their large scale possibilities that their institutions are producing.

Media Insitutions

An institution is an organisation or company, public or privately owned that produce and/or distributes media products such as Films, Tv shows or adverts.
Institutional terminology
Convergence: Two or more types of media coming together
Synergy: Different elements of a company working together to promote related products
Concentration of Media Ownership: The process by which an increasingly smaller number of companies own most media outlets
Cross Media Ownership: When a company produces two or more different types of media
Conglomerate: A large parent company which owns a range of smaller companies.
Vertical Integration: When a single company controls both the production and supply of a product

Horror Movies
There are many big names in horror movies industry to date, which has become one of the most highest grossing film genres. These industries include Twisted Pictures, Universal Pictures and Hammer Productions.
Twisted Pictures has grossed more than half a billion dollars from one of the most popular horror movie series that has seen several sequels over the past decade: The Saw series. Franchises such as Twisted Pictures are focused primarily on producing other horror movies such as Texas Chainsaw 3D, The dead silence, Chain letter and many others.
Other Companies such as Universal Pictures have experimented and produced horror movies such as the American Pie series, as well as Dawn of the dead and many other blockbuster films.
Hammer Productions are far more prestigious and well known throughout the world due to their high success with dozens of films in the past 80 years or so producing huge movies such as The women in Black and the following Women in Black 2, The quiet ones and many others.

Title sequence in Opening of film

A title sequence is the method by which a films credits production and cast members utilizing visuals and sound. The opening credits of motion pictures list the most important members of the production and they are either superimposed on a blank screen or over the action. There may or may not be accompanying music.

•  Firstly they reveal the distribution company ie Warner Bro's
• Then the Production company eg Kemp Company
• After that the Top Billing Actors
• Followed by the Film Director, such as Steven Spielberg
• The film title is then revealed
• Finally the executive Producer and other cast members

These conventions reveal to the audience the background knowledge of a films production.

Opening conventions of a Horror movie

Film Institutions: A film institution logo is one of the first screen frames that appear in an opening swwquence of a horror movie as it tells the audience who the film was produced by, which is also usually two institutions as it spreads cost. Sometimes institution logos are edited to suit the genere of the film and to have direct links to the title and the plot. An example of this is the film 'The Dark Knight Rises Walt bros logo had been edited to link with darkness and evil.

 

Establishing shots are used in order to set the location and date for the audience, we are introduced to different locations in the opening shot to reveal the genre of the movie. Also themes are introduced through dialogue and links to the plot in order to engage the audience.

The Opening credits list the most important people involved with the film. This includes directors, cameramen, writers, and key actors usually in order of significance throughout the film. The film title is placed on screen to show the name of the film , this will have connotations to the audience that they will think of when considering what the plot for the film will be like. Font and colour of the text for credits and film title link in with genre and the theme of the film. For example Saw films red text with blood imagey on the font revealing the narrative plot of the film.
The opening establishes the genre or hybrid genre of the film, this is done by visual imagery or the introduction of characters. IE in the twilight films in the opening credits we start to get hints of the vampire genre. Opening credits use iconography to help establish the overall theme.
Music is strong convention used in opening credits. Music intrigues people and interests the audience to keep watching. It also works well to build tension or create a mood to go with the start of the film. Commonly in horror films music of non diegetic sound is used to start to unease its audience. Pace is built and credits and titles are presented in time with the music.
The opening scene usually starts with equilibrium. A voiceover is used in many films to introduce the narrative always descriptive and helps the audience to engage in the plot and grow to like or dislike characters. Sometimes can be used to cause confusion and leave the audience wanting to know more. Sometimes in religion or paranormal sub genre horror myths or stories read out by a narrator to introduce the plot.

Character Analysis

Zoe White
Typical blonde girl- Usually irresponsible, gullible in the horror genre.
She is of secondary school/college age (16/17).
Overly excitable.
Can easily persuade people to do something.



Joe Triggs

Un-enthusiastic about his friends interests.
Lazy.
Secondary school/ college age (16/17).
Quiet and keeps to himself.
Can be mean on occasion.

George Dennis

Mature and well educated.
Aware of what is wrong and right.
Doesn't follow instructions unless he knows that it is the right thing to do.
Secondary school/ college age (16/17).
Tries to persuade others to do stuff but is not successful.

Lucy Roberts

Curious about many things.
Observant and remembers little details.
Usually is calm but can panic in tough situations.

Rachel Matthews

Lonely, didn't have many friends

Script

Four friends ZOE, JOE, GEORGE and LUCY are together in a normal house. They are all in the kitchen/dining room talking together.

ZOE is standing up away from the others and holds up her phone.

Zoe: Guys, have you checked Facebook lately?

Joe: No not really, why?

Zoe: Well, do you have Rachel Matthews on Facebook?

George, Lucy: Yeah I think so, why? What’s happened?

ZOE walks to the table to show the group her phone. On the screen there is a post on Facebook from an unknown user to the page of RACHEL MATTHEW saying ‘R.I.P’. A location is set which says ‘Clockhouse Gardens’.

Lucy: Oh my God…

George: Well what does that mean?

Zoe: We need to go to Clockhouse Gardens and investigate.

Joe: What? No way! It’s probably just a trick from one of her friends.

Lucy: No… She only has like one friend. She only has five friends on Facebook and I’m pretty sure that two of them are her family.

Zoe: Exactly! Guys, I think this is serious and I want to find out what has happened.

George: Well I’m not coming with you.

Joe: Neither am I.

Zoe: Come on it will be fun!

Lucy: I’ll go; I want to find out what happened.

 

The camera cuts to a pan of the entrance to Clockhouse Gardens. ZOE and LUCY walk in.

Lucy: So what do we do now?

Zoe: Just keep an eye out for anything suspicious.

ZO and LUCY walk around and find a blood handprint on a tree/statue.

Lucy: What happened? Oh my God… Where is Rachel?

They walk around more in search for RACHEL. They come across a broken window with blood coming from it. Something catches the attention of Lucy and a hand is seen to be sticking out of a bush in the same direction of the sound.

Lucy: [quietly] Rachel!

ZOE and LUCY run over to RACHEL and they stare at each other in horror. The camera pans upwards from the body to their faces and behind them is an image of RACHEL staring at them.



Reece

Our filming location is Clockhouse Gardens, an old landmark area, historical of the Upminster area. These photos show the different camera angles and shots we could use in order to portray the horror genre. The micro elements of the horror genre can easily be revealed in this location as it fits the natural stereotype of a horror movie location. It relates to the isolation of a place which can replicate the protagonist characters loneliness and vulnerability. A slight issue which we will consider is the timing of our filming schedule, as the lighting will be too bright to represent a dark mysterious place. Therefore we aim to film at around sundown to have a fairly dim and mysterious lighting which will add affect to the filming and editing.

AS Coursework

I have changed groups to complete my AS coursework in which the task planning has all changed. The sequence we are now completing is based around the narrative plot of murder investigation. The plot of two murder detectives are investigating the mysterious death of a protagonist character, who are then killed while investigating this mysterious enquiry. My role in the group is to edit the events of the narrative, using different locations in order to create an engaging but intimidating opening horror sequence. Using the different micro elements we are aiming to represent the generic conventions of the horror genre, using sound and Mise en scene to create an appealing and horrifying clip. The locations we are filming as a group is at Lily's house for a friendly dialogue scene which involves both non diegetic and diegetic sound to portray a positive and engaging atmosphere in the sequence. In comparison to other location of Clockhouse gardens which is being used to film the scene of the murder and its enquiry, the aim to portray a horrifying but realistic murder scene.

Character Profiles for Opening sequence

There are three main characters in our opening sequence coursework piece:- Alice, The mother and Father

Alice
Alice is the young girl child whos soul is transferred into the doll and she becomes possessed by the doll. Alice will fit the natural stereotype of a typical young innocent girl in a horror movie, wearing old historical gowns to express her innocence and purity. The colour white connotes the idea of hope and purity which contrasts the characters soul after she becomes possessed by doll.
The mother
The mother will fit the stereotype of mother stretched to her maximum as she struggles to fulfil her working life and childs need alongside trying to please and pleasure her husband. As a result of the location and setting, the costume will be fairly modern and attractive which hopefully will add to the mysterious nature of her daughter becoming possessed.
The father
A stereotypical alpha male who is the core in the family's structure, without his strong will and insurance the family would not be able to hold together. The protagonist character will also continue to match the modern family stereotype wearing nice fashionable clothing supporting his daughters obscure fashion sense.
Dolly
White and Black items on the doll will help to connote mystery and danger. The colours white and black are extremely contrasting which helps to further the sense of tension and mystery in the sequence. The connotations of purity and innocence from the colour will be over ruled from the girls soul with the colour black suggesting darkness and death.

Opening film planning

As a group we decided of a narrative with a happy family playing in a park with their children smiles and laughter all round. The generic conventions of non diegetic sound having laughter filling the back group to further represent the families happiness. The disruption then occurs as the child's soul is transferred into the child's favourite toy a small doll. A shot reverse shot of the girl standing outside her bedroom window looking in which hopefully will reflect the child's isolation and her possessed soul. This storyline will then hopefully be foreshadowed through the opening sequence and the different micro elements that will reflect the horror genre.

Scream- Textual Analysis

The film 'Scream' was released on 20th December 1996, it was an American slasher film written by Kevin Williamson and directed by Wes Craven. Scream follows the character of Sidney Prescott a high school student in the fictional town of Woodsboro, California, who becomes the target of a mysterious killer known as Ghostface. The film combined comedy and mystery with the violence of the slasher genre to target the popular horror genre, through the use of the micro elements of Mise en Scene, Sound, Camera Angles and Editing the film clearly represented the horror genre.
The most significant micro element Mise en Scene, in my opinion, uses the generic conventions of the horror genre to effectively represent and provide a thrilling blockbuster movie. Firstly the opening sequence begins with revealing the credits in a bold font which immediately foreshadows the bold events that take place in the film. The credits appear in white which connotes the idea of purity and innocence reflecting the protagonist characters personality. Although the credits then begin flashing red before finally being revealed as red to the audience, the colour red represents blood and danger clearly representing the horror genre. The relevance of the flashing of red in the credits also foreshadows the repeating deaths of Sidney Prescott's friends revealing the storyline to the audience of that there will be repeated murders throughout the film. As well as suggesting the contrast between the two main characters personality's and their appearance, showing the difference between the protagonists innocent character and the antagonists sinful behaviour. Secondly the character representation of the protagonist character Prescott fits the natural stereotype of a young delicate and vulnerable girl as she fits the blonde and small profile of a little girl. This develops the plot and engages the audience as they are immediately on the protagonist characters side and feel sympathy for the character. The protagonist character Sidney is wearing lounge wear clothing, a fluffy jumper which suggests the character feels safe in the environment she is in, this stereotype is disrupted immediately from the antagonist characters phone calls. This lounge wear clothing also connotes the viewpoint of a timid and vulnerable character which is supported through the antagonists characters appearance.
The use of sound in this extract is extremely important in the representation of the horror genre as simply without sound the extract would not be portray as terrifying. The use of non diegetic and diegetic sound portray the horror genre through mysterious background and direct diologue. The use of diegetic sound in the extract is significant as it conveys to the audience the events of how the main protagonist character 'scream' is efficient in his quest to cause disruption in the movie. The dramatic dialogue reveals to the audience the vulnerability of the protagonist character as she continues to worry about the threats she is receiving. The non diegetic sound also helps to build a significant amount of tension within the scene, which is also further developed through the use of fast paced continuity editing.
The editing in this extract is fast paced in order to build up the tension and threat that is being revealed in the scene. The continuous editing of the protagonist character darting between rooms in order to lock doors builds significant suspense to the audience as it reveals how vulnerable the protagonist character is. This editing reveals the vast location in which the protagonist character is situated in, showing the antagonist has several ways in order to break in and attack the character. The iconography of a locking door handle suggests danger but also a sense of security in your own home. Whereas the director of this film cleverly contrasts this stereotype as the house has minimal security and is easily accessible for the antagonist.

Hybrid and Sub genre research

Sub Genre
Genre is defined as "category of artistic, musical or literary compositing characterized by a particular style,  form or content". A sub genre can be any of the above it is a catergory of works that forms a specific class within a larger genre. Some of the sub genres of horror are comedy, supernatural and psychological. The mixture of thse elements create horror films that combines horrific elements with comdeic features,psychological features and the supernatural events.;

Hybrid
The definition of the word Hybrid is

of a mixed character; composed of different elements. A hybrid is something of mixed orgigin or compositing, when two films genres are combined together in order to create a combination of both the films. An example of a horror hybrid is Aliens- a cross between Sci-Fi and Horror.

Mini Brief Evaluation

The Mini brief task, in my opinion, was fairly succesful as we developed many new skills in different media fields which will help in the future to improve my understanding of the different types of media and improve most importantly my coursework piece. The strengths of our mini brief task i believe we had thorough research and planning surrounding the task so we had a solid background of knowledge to work from while completing the task. The storyboard we completed helped enourmously throughout the filming stage as we could use it for the script and the different camera shots that would work to create tension and engage the audience. The research we completed demonstrated that in order to attract and engage your targeted audience then the sequence had to be tense and create an engagement between the antagonist and protagonist characters with the audience. This helped us to agree on the idea of a mother and daughter scene as it extremely relatable to our own lives currently as we grow up and also it allowed us to decide on our targeted audience of 16-18 year olds and parents. Also i believe our filming was also very good in relation to the location and facilities in whihc we had to create our sequence, the filmning clearly represents the antagonist and protagonist characters and creates a sense of tension within the scene.
 However on the other hand i feel a weakness of our group was our editing, as a group we had limited knowledge on the adobe premier production system therefore we found the editing process extremely diffiuclt. Another weakness that is clearly visible in our sequence is the lighting of the location, the scene is meant to be set in the darkness after the antagonist character returns homevery late after a night out with her boyfriend. However as a result of the facilities and time we had to complete the set task we only managed to complete the task during the day which portrays a light scenery.
If i had the oppurtunity to complete this set task again i would refilm the sequence in a darker setting and planned certain facilities in order to convey the representations of a stereotypical teenager and a worried parent. Also i would include more camera shots such as close up shots to reveal the emotions and feelings of the characters in the scene. I feel this would engage the target audience further as it allows to build the connection between the audience and characters which will build the tension and suspense in the sequence. In the future i believe we would have to gather a greater understanding of the editing software to be able to have a good flow of editing and that the sequence is engaging to the audience.

Editing Overview

The editing process can be very challenging in order to make sure our sequence was well structured and equally represented the mini task brief. The task ordered us to be able to use the editing techniques of shot reverse shot and match on action to portray the characters and the events that occurred on screen. In my opinion I believe the editing process is the most difficult, as a group we struggled to structure the sequence to make the clip flow and be engaging to the audience. Also I felt that the sound didn't project well during filming so I therefore added some non diegetic tense themed music to build the suspense of the dialogue and to try and capture our target audience. Overall I feel I have rediscovered many different techniques of the adobe premier editing software which will benefit me going into the coursework task.

Filming Process

The filming process was a difficult procedure as a result of several other factors that contributed to the different micro elements of our mini brief such as Mise en scene, camera angles, lighting and sound. The roles allocated throughout the scene was Izzy and Esme as actors and I contributed as the camera man. Through following the storyboard I was able to follow the three main rules of the 180' angle rule, match on action and shot reverse shot.
Issues
Firstly the lighting in our scene was challenging as our group idea is meant to be based around a nighttime event which would suggest a dark lighting scheme to suggest mystery and tension. However we filmed our scene at half 9 in a bright lighting which doesn't clearly represent the story plot and affects the audiences engagement within the scene.
Secondly the props and costumes available to our characters were limited as we were filming within our school environment therefore essential props such as vodka and a dress was unavailable to use.
Although apart from these small factors the filming process was completed easily and effectively capturing key moments through the different camera angles such as a shot reverse shot. Diegetic sound was also easily captured and the editing procedure can now begin. As a group we aim to edit the footage into a flowing well structured short film including both diegetic and non diegetic sound clearly representing the antagonist and protagonist characters in the scene.

Camera Shots- 180' degree rule, Match on Action, Shot reverse Shot

180' degree angle rule
The rule states that the camera should remain the same side of an imaginary line. The line is drawn perpendicular to the cameras viewpoint in the establishing shot of the scene, the rule enforces continuityof the film. An example of this is in a car chase scene, if the car is travelling from right to left, the next shot must also be shot from the same side, meaning the car has to enter the frame right to left again. This rule should never be broken, as breaking the rule will confuse the audience, especially in scenes of chase, conversation or sport.
Eye Line
Crossing the line when filming over the shoulder shots shifts the persons eye line, meaning that the acttors lines do not match. The two people should always be on the same side of frame in each shot. As a result of breaking the rule it confuses of audience which may result in the audience losing focusesand becoming disorientated.
As a group we have decided to use the 180' degree camera shot because we want to avoid confusion so that the audience can clearly identify both the antagonist and protagonist characters within the scene. This shot will also add tension and suspense to the diologue as the heated confrontation between mother and daughter develops engaging the audience.

Match on Action
Match on action is an editing technique for continuity editing in which one shot cuts to another shot portraying the action of the subject in the first shot. This creates the impression of a sense of continuity, the action carrying through creates a 'visual bridge' which attracts the audiences attention away from slight cutting or continuity issues.
 We are using match on action in our sequence becuase it fits our scene perfectly to allow the flow of the antagonist character Izzy coming in from her night out locking the door and advancing into the kitchen to be confronted with her mother. This shot will hopefully engage the audience and be very appealing to all viewers while watching our sequence.

Shot Reverse Shot
Shot reverse shot is used in diologue to identify characters eye contact to create and add suspense within a scene. Shot reverse shot often ties in with the 180' rule to retain continuity by not distorting the audiences sense of location of the characters in the shot.
The shot reverse will help to reveal the characters emotions in the scene to develop suspense and portray the emotion to the audience.

Story board

Storyboard of the scene 

Dialogue between the two main characters Izzy and Esme

The script

The Script
(Isabelle stumbles into kitchen with her heels in her hand and leans on work surface for support as she is struggling to stand on her own feet. Here we have a match on action shot to exaggerate Isabelle’s drunken state. She goes to the sink and pours out a glass of water where only then does she look up and see her mum sitting on the dining room chair. We have a shot reverse shot to reveal the reactions between the two.)

Mother: (looks at watch) What time do you call this?

Isabelle: looks in shock (goes to speak) I…

Mother: Save the excuses I know you’ve been out drinking again with your new irresponsible boyfriend. Why do you keep doing this Isabelle? You’ve got your whole life ahead of you and you’re throwing it away for some stupid relationship that isn’t even going to last!

Isabelle: How dare you say we’re not gonna last! I love him - why can’t you accept that?! If you’re not gonna support our relationship then I guess I’ll just go live with him!

 

 

 

Media Brief Planning

Narrative Planning
Character plot
As a group we decided to create a family scene where a young rebellious teenage daughter continues to ignore her mothers instructions and creates an argument with her mother after coming home drunk again.
The young teenage character is played by Izzy
The character is best described as blonde rebellious teenage who continues to fight against her mothers instructions and neglects her education in order to be in a relationship with a hopeless older boy. Props used in this scene by Izzy is a bottle of Vodka and high heels, typical of a young female returning from a night out. The costume used is going to be a black dress, fairly short to represent the characters rebellious actions portraying the natural stereotype of young girls in this current generation. Also the colour black also symbolizes mystery and danger which further represents the fact that the pairs relationship is on egde as a result of the characters behavior.
The mother is played by Esme
Esme role is to act the mother of the teenage daughter expresses her worries regarding izzy's future and her behavior which fuels an argument between the two characters. Esme demands izzy's respect as the teenager continues to go against her mothers orders and further tries to bring her daughter back to earth after being taken away in her love affair with an older boy. Esme costume will be a dressing gown and slippers often worn by a female parent upon waiting for their daughter to arrive home from a night out, this costume is used also to represent the natural stereotype of a worried mother. Their are no props needed in this scene for this character.

Research tasks

The Horror Genre
Horror movies strive to elicit the emotions of fear, horror and terror from viewers, the most recognised plots of the horror genre is those focusing around the themes of death, the supernatural or mental illness. Most horror films centralise a main antagonist, also known as the villian, an example of this is in the series of films called 'Scream' The horror genre is recognised through iconography which immediately attracts the audience to the themes of scary settings and gory violence the anagram D.I.S.T.I.N.C.T clearly portrays the macro elements necessary:-
Don't
Ignore
Setting
Technical
Iconography
Narrative
Characterisation
Themes

Setting
Small communities or isolated places in urban environments create the greatest mystery for the targeted audience, the scene and settings set's the tension and suspense which engage the target audience. Also dark streets and narrow alleyways, Large cities or run down ghost towns also connote the suspense feeling of isolation. The most common locations seen in films is settings with a 'dark history' like abandoned houses, hotels and asylums.
Iconography

Welcome Post

Good Afternoon,

I'm Jake Brocklebank, I am currently sitting my media as level and unfortunately only managed a B at Gcse level as a result of a poor final piece of coursework. I find media extremely interesting, how it controls the way information and images are portrayed in the modern world. Without media the world would not have developed as quickly and efficiently than it has, i believe it contributes to massively to globalisation. The AS media course sounds very appealing at the opportunity of being able to create an opening sequence for a Horror movie as well as learning the different terminology and business side in the written exam. I look forward to develop my skills in the different fields from the micro elements such as Editing and Camera shots to the written work of analysing an unseen text. In the future I hope to pursue a career in a media industry linking with sports such as sports journalist or presenter.