BFI Study day

BFI Study Day

On Thursday 21st November, our media class went to BFI (British Film Institution) South-bank in London to learn some key information on opening sequences concerning how they are made professionally, what consists within them and tips on how to construct one when we come to do so later on in the year.

Pete Fraser conducted the lecture which started on the 5 aspects of genre and the subject of narrative and how enigma is key as it presents a question in the opening title sequence which will be answered later on in the film. We then were showed three opening title sequences including; Catch me if you can, Dawn of the Dead and Napoleon Dynamite. Each sequence displayed a different form of presenting the credits, each in their own unique way. This also included their setting, atmosphere (much influenced by he music) and character. 

Next we moved onto analysing past student opening title sequences. They ranged from being a poor level 1 to a well produced level 4. The levels depend on the direction on the sequence, whether the sequence presents an enigma and general atmosphere that is created and how well it is created. Other features including and several opening credits and appropriate sound. This was a very good source and information and advice as we were given tips on what to include and what not to. We were able to see the mistakes previous students have made and how we can avoid them to make a more professional and presentable opening title sequence.

In the afternoon session, a film producer was interviewed and described in detail the process in which he helped produce his new film 'Sixteen'. What was learnt was that it is a very tough and time consuming process even to make a film with a low budget as a lot of items have to be thought out. He discussed how it was very difficult to find an appropriate film location that would allow them to shoot the film and one that was not being used at the same time as another film shooting.

Overall the day was a success as it really helped us understand key elements mainly regarding opening title sequences and it gave us advice and how to construct one to a high level. 

A link to Pete's Media Blog; http://petesmediablog.blogspot.co.uk/