Evaluation of The Exchange

Brief
Our task for the exchange was to create a short sequence in the style of a film thriller which involved the exchange of an important item. The location of the film was to be decided by us. After the footage was shot we would then edit the film, choosing some music and titles that were appropriate for what we were trying to achieve.

My responsibilities included: acting, ensuring the continuity was the same from the last shot, help direct the film, editing and some filming. Acting - i was one of the main actors in this piece and so it was my responsibility that we got the shots we needed to use and that the continuity flowed throughout the film. I also helped to direct the film, giving suggestions on ways we could film etc. I did some of the editing of the film and parts which i was not taking part in, i helped film.

I think that i contributed a lot to the project, helped to make it flow and ensure that we got everything that needed to be done on time and got the shots we needed to make the finished project in the end. I could have helped more by doing more of the camera-work and improving cinematography.

I learn that working as a team really helps make the project more efficient and it takes less time when taking action and just doing everything instead of arguing how everything should be done.

I felt the production value of the overall finished video was really good and what may be improved if we had a few more shots that could have allowed for the video to be a bit longer or to get more close ups.

Our general use of ECMS was good however, our cinematography could perhaps be changed so that it seemed more film noir/ thriller.

I felt that my ideas came through in the finished project, the audience understood what was happening during the sequence and the audience feedback was mostly positive although they commented that the music was a bit over-dramatic compared to what was happening on screen.

What went wrong?
The music was considered too dramatic to what was happening on screen and we didn't have enough shots and had to re-use one of the shots again to make sure we had enough footage. I thought one of the main best points about our movie was the close up of the important object and how the actor shook his hand as he received it, gave a mysterious look about the object which i felt went well with the theme.

If i was to do this again, i would be sure to get more shots to ensure that we have enough coverage to work with and to ensure we have all the shots we need when editing. I would also try to use music that was more appropriate and try to ensure that it works well and compliments the work we are trying to achieve.