Today in class we were asked to reflect on our rough cuts, then let a friend who hasn’t seen it give us feedback and criticisms. Shown in bold are the questions we were presented with, and below the answers. Here were the results :^)

How much continuity does the video have? Are there any places where the continuity can be improved? How?

The video is lacking continuity in some areas since there are some shots missing which would have provided context. For example, the red cloth which is emphasized in several scenes, yet purpose is never explained or shown towards the end of the film.

To what extent is the video readable as a film opening? Can you understand that it’s an opening? Why or why not? What can you do to make it more readable?

I think it is only somewhat readable as a film opening. so far at least, considering it lacks a lot of elements which would have displayed so. For example a title card, credits, etc. In addition to this, the opening is somewhat convoluted as the story is difficult to follow without the plot being explained.

To what extent is the video readable within your chosen genre? Can you tell it’s a horror/thriller/comedy/coming-of-age etc.? How can this area be improved?

I think it’s definitley readable as a film opening for a thriller as it contains many stylistic elements made for the purpose of making the viewer uneasy. The lowkey lighting, imagery of the static tv, props (pill bottles) to name a few. Not only this but our actor Katelyn played a creepy role in the film which was shown to have provoked a jolt in everyone I showed our rough cut to.

Partner with someone who doesn’t know anything about your video. Record their answers to the following questions:

What is setting (time and place)? How can you tell? Motel, night, due to dark sky and sign.

Who are the characters? How can you tell? Unknown protagonist, and phantom, pictured in the film

What is the movie going to be about? How can you tell? Psychological thriller/ sci-fi horror, ghost of unknown origin is  in the film

To what extent is it readable as a film opening? Not very readable, due to no signifying factors (like title cards etc), seems as though it’s just part of the movie.

To what extent is it readable as a thriller film? Very readable due to the appearance and disappearance of the phantom

Overall, how might the clarity of meaning in the video be improved?

Add some title cards to signify it’s the beginning otherwise it is very well done.

Overall, what are your ideas for how the above aspects of the video can be improved? Reshooting? Better editing? Sound? Rewriting parts of the script? What are your next concrete steps? Ambient music, title cards, etc. otherwise very well done