Choose another group’ pitch and assess and critique it. Write about what was effective/or not in the presentation. What is challenging, intriguing, limiting, expansive? If you were part of a funding body with limited funds would you greenlight this project or not and why?
The group who chose the Pentridge Prison to focus on as their site of change presented an engaging and well-rounded pitch. The presentation itself was comprehensive, concise, and demonstrated a thorough understanding of how the site has ‘changed’ and what implications this has on the surrounding community. They situated the site well within its neighbourhood, which I think is what makes it so interesting; the presence of a jail in the middle of an inner-city suburb is as eerie as it is unfitting, and it is this exact dichotomy that the film will investigate.
They provided a thorough explanation behind the rationale for their choice, and I think that the personal aspect (being that the film is made from the perspective of someone who lives there) makes it even more intriguing. Their research into the history of the jail and its current status was extensive, as they explained its relationship with both past and present occupants. I think they have established an ideal selection of interview subjects, and the suggestion from the panel to find an ex-prisoner should be taken on board. The only limitation I can see is that they might be unable to get in contact with some of their subjects but otherwise, I think the film is conceptually viable. Though this would only be a minor limitation, as there are plenty of background interviews that could be conducted and no shortage of tenants that could be approached.
Most of the prior documentation of Pentridge Prison has revolved largely around the inmates and the ‘ghost stories’ that circulate. This film presents a narrower and more nuanced focus by exploring how redevelopment has caused this site to change and re-populate itself. It will provide insight into the relationship between the prison and its modern residents by interviewing people to reveal how they feel about living on a site with such a macabre history. With limited funding I think this film could be made – I would greenlight the project because I think it offers some unique insight on a fascinating subject.
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