The Last Three Minutes- Directed by Po Chan (5 minutes)
Even though this film is significantly shorter than the 15/20 minute drama I am hoping to create, The Last Three Minutes is an incredible short, and definitely inspired me.
I think the way this film was shot is extremely effective in creating a nostalgic, poignant feeling. The point of view shots with the smooth transitions are interesting and I would like to be able to create the same feeling in my film- as mine will also be a way of looking back on someone's life.
Soft- Directed by Simon Ellis (14minutes)
Soft is a gritty, simplistic film with extremely strong character acting from the protagonist which I enjoyed a lot. I was inspired by the urban setting and the use of flashback. I also thought the shots very varied and there were some simple angles which were very effective. The shocking twist at the end also caught me off guard, and that is a device I am going to incorporate in 'Prism.' I also hope to use as many subliminal messages as this film portrays. There is no soundtrack or fancy effects, so the reliance on the actor is very strong and makes the film captivating to watch.
Interview With A Time Traveller- Directed by James Cooper (10minutes)
Interview with a time traveller is the film which I would say influenced me the most for the cinematic view of my project. It communicates successfully the mysterious relationship between an interviewer and a person which is exactly the format of my project. This film's use of plot and character is so strong that there is no need for varied locations. I also loved the dynamic between the characters which ended with one being incredibly significant to the other without even knowing. There was also lots unsaid which was left up to audience interpretation.
My film, Prism, is going to be shot in only one location and this film has shown me how I can use that location to my advantage through shot variety and strong characterisation so the film does not have to be repetitive or boring.
Colour Bleed- Directed by Peter Szewczyk (9minutes)
I chose to watch this film because it contained a theme which was similar to my own- the theme of colour. Even though the style and overall feel of this film is very different from the one I am aiming to create, I enjoyed it and learnt a lot about how I can make sure my colour film has a USP. I was also inspired by the editing techniques used to create the colour 'bleeds', a technique which I am going to try and emulate myself.
Lullaby- Directed by Kevin Markwick (14minutes)
Lullaby is a short film about a mother communicating with her unborn child, and this was the film which is most similar theme wise to the one I want to create. The cinematic style is very different from 'Prism', but the idea of a parallel universe where something exists which doesn't in reality is definitely similar to mine. I also love the fact the simulated universe and the real one are very closely related, literally the only different entity in the film is the boy. I love the way this film is executed and the personal issues portrayed in the film. I hope that my project can create the same effect and also handle the delicate themes with as much poignancy and dignity as 'Lullaby' has.
