Using what I've got

Using what I've got

Whilst researching for this film and thinking about what I wanted to make versus what I thought I could achieve. I decided to watch Kevin smith's documentary that accompanies "Clerks" (dir. K. smith 1992). It details his account of his practices and  challenges throughout its production and gives some interesting insight into the methodologies he developed  during pre-production all the way to the marketing and distribution of " Clerks".

In one particular section he describes how he decided to write a screenplay based on what surroundings he knew he had access to i.e. a convenience store and a video rental shop. He claims he was influenced by what Robert Rodriguez did on his early work. He used what he knew was available to him and wrote that into the story. For example I knew I had access to a farm where  my friends lived, which meant I had a location and actors, which reduced my need for catering, transport and accommodation  for the cast and crew.

I knew as far as equipment went , obviously the college could provide me with what I needed. The first problem I came across was  the funding for the makeup effects I wanted, I originally looked into contact lenses and Halloween face paint so I could make my chosen actor look suitably demonic. But after some research I realised that It was too costly given my financial situation. It was when I broke down the actual cost of the props that It dawned on me that with the contact lenses, you may need cleansing lotion and applicators, you need brushes and pads for the makeup and so on. because of this I decided to make a risky decision and use After effects  instead, a program that I have very little understanding of but I tool I knew would be at my disposal, I also understood that this would be another challenge for me which is something that had given me  a sense of achievement in my previous project.

Finance was not my only issue. time is also playing a part in my process. I've had to find employment which has reduced my availability significantly. Due to the nature of my job, I will be working the kinds of hours where other people would be typically available. To ensure that I get the final product I want or at least as close to it as possible, I have chosen to take on crew members only when absolutely necessary. for example:  I took on an acting role in the film , so I enlisted the help of three of my fellow students, knowing that they would likely be available that day and that it shouldn't impact too much on their own projects.

Ultimately, I know can operate a camera, I can direct, produce and I now know that I have the skills needed to edit the film, which is where I think the film will really take shape, I think I'm confident enough that I can create something worthwhile and something that whilst is entertaining can showcase many of the different skills that I have picked up during my studies.