Reflection:

• A) Firstly, write 500 words (approximately) describing what you gained from the studio and answer these two questions:

• In what ways do you hope your final work (whether individual or group-produced) engages its audience and communicates a key concern of the studio?

 Our short film is an exploration of the complex impact of technology and artificial intelligence on human mental health, interpersonal relationships, and self-perception. It seeks to invite the audience to reflect on the evolving dynamics of our digital age.

 At the heart of our story is Rose, a character grappling with multiple personality disorders. We posit that one of the contributing factors to her condition is the pervasive influence of social media and the rising prevalence of synthetic media in our lives. These elements are eroding the authenticity of human connections. We are aware of pressing issues such as deep fakes, false information, and fake news, which are the harsh realities of the advancing AI and technology landscape.

 However, our storytelling approach is to convey a more uplifting narrative. In contrast to dwelling solely on the negative consequences of technology, we choose to focus on a simple yet beautiful love story between two ordinary individuals navigating a world rapidly adapting to technology. As Rose emerges from the remnants of a shattered heart and a broken relationship, she embarks on a personal journey to rediscover herself.

 Through this heartwarming tale, we aim to deliver a message that encourages our audience to question and broaden their perspectives. Is synthetic media the root of the problem? Is it AI itself? Or is it our individual actions and reactions that ultimately cause the issues we face in this digital age? Our film suggests that perhaps the problem lies more on a personal level than we might initially realise.

  

• Imagine you are going to keep working on that media piece (e.g., to screen it somewhere else, like a festival, or develop it into a different kind of work, and so on). What would be the core things you want to improve and extend, and why?

 To strengthen the presence of synthetic media in our narrative, we can dive deeper into the AI and technological aspects of the world we’ve crafted. Rather than merely addressing these themes theoretically and conceptually, we can integrate them more deeply and organically into the story’s setting. This might involve a more extensive exploration of futuristic world-building, showcasing advanced technologies, and portraying the lifestyle influenced by these innovations. We can particularly delve into the role of social media, which plays a central part in Rose’s struggles and mental health issues, illustrating how it has become an integral part of her life. By delving into these details, we can create a more authentic and immersive backstory for our film.

 On the technical front, we initially set out to film our project in LOG to attain a higher level of quality in our footage. By leveraging the dynamic range of the LOG footage, we aimed to enhance colour, contrast, and overall image quality, resulting in sharper, clearer, and more vibrant visuals. Due to equipment limitations, we made the decision to increase the shutter speed to compensate for exposure, which allowed us to continue filming in LOG. However, during the editing process, it became evident that the frame rate of the different footage was inconsistent, leading to varying motion blur details in the final cut. If given the opportunity to improve this project or any future projects, we would pay closer attention to maintaining a consistent frame rate to ensure smoother and more visually coherent sequences.

 Furthermore, I want to emphasise the critical importance of audio quality in our project. While editing, I noticed that the audio suffered from noise pollution, primarily due to my handling of the microphone. This issue stemmed from my relative inexperience with this specific sound recording equipment, as I underestimated its sensitivity. Additionally, the choice of an empty room as our recording environment resulted in a boomy and echoey sound quality. These were clear oversights on my part, and I acknowledge that with more practice and attention to detail, these issues can be easily rectified. To me, it’s the meticulous consideration of factors like the right settings and the use of appropriate equipment; these little details are what make a difference in exceptional work.

 

• B) Then, write 800 words (minimum) of the following:

• You will present all that you’ve worked on since Week 8: your pre-production, experiments, images, clips, scenes, and tests.

• This could include the draft edits, sound mixes, and colour grades—and, of course, the reflections associated with them.

• More scene deconstruction and analysis are most welcome.

 Pre-Production:

Given my particular interest in the production and post-production phases, I took on a role that involved assisting with various pre-production tasks as needed. Beyond providing input to shape the storyline with a simple love story, our pre-production phase proceeded remarkably smoothly, without any significant hiccups. The team displayed exceptional competence in planning and scheduling, and I was particularly impressed by the detailed nature of these preparations. This level of detail far exceeded my previous project experiences, reflecting a level of professionalism and commitment.

In addition to my group contributions, I embarked on an extensive research journey to gain a deeper understanding of audio equipment. This research was motivated by my decision to invest in high-quality equipment for our shoot, recognising the long-term benefits this would offer in my role now as well as any future projects. I sought valuable advice from Cat, which not only expanded my knowledge but also allowed me to experiment with more advanced technology, all with the overarching goal of achieving exceptional audio quality. In the process, I acquired a somewhat beginner skill to operate an intricate recording setup in conjunction with a broadcast shotgun microphone and its associated components.

Moreover, I took on the responsibility of organising and managing supplementary equipment, including lighting setups, stands, boom microphone poles, and reflectors. Through this experience, I learned that achieving a smooth and productive shooting day demands meticulous attention to detail and effective micro-management of various elements. This level of commitment and oversight is crucial when aiming for the highest possible project outcome.

 

Production:

On the first shooting day, I assumed the role of the main camera operator for our team, concurrently providing Mark with guidance on operating the audio equipment effectively. During a crucial scene depicting the breakup between our characters, I proposed the use of a shipwreck element, which serendipitously presented itself on location. This shipwreck served as a symbolic representation of the characters’ shattered relationship. Notably, the shot capturing Rose and Dylan standing with poignant gazes at each other was artfully framed to include the shipwreck in the background, lending depth and allegorical significance to the narrative.

I also took the initiative to make sure we recorded foley and ambient sounds both at the beach and in the city, ensuring we have a diverse range of audio assets available during the post-production phase. Although our day proceeded according to schedule, or even ahead of it, a notable challenge we encountered was the inability to capture the desired lighting conditions of the blue hour and golden hour, as initially intended. This constraint was due to timing considerations, underscoring the importance of thorough planning for future shoots.

On the subsequent shooting day, I took on the role of operating the microphone. It was during this role that I discovered the microphone’s high sensitivity, particularly in picking up handling noise. Unfortunately, we lacked the requisite shock mount to mitigate this issue. Consequently, I adapted by implementing techniques to minimise handling noise as much as possible, including maintaining a steady hand and positioning the microphone strategically within my reach to avoid inadvertent contact. Another noteworthy aspect to consider is the acoustic characteristics of the room we used, which resulted in an echoey sound quality. It’s important to acknowledge that the nature of the microphone I was working with might have been better suited for outdoor use. Recognising this issue, I contemplated a solution involving the placement of objects and items within the room to dampen the sound and prevent it from bouncing off the walls and reaching the microphone. However, given the constraints of time and our commitment to the shooting schedule, I opted not to address this issue, as it might have led to delays. This invaluable experience has equipped me with insights into optimising technical aspects and better preparedness for future shoots.

At the end of the day, I took charge of returning the borrowed equipment to RMIT, ensuring its safe and timely return as part of our commitment to professional responsibility.

 

Post-Production:

In the post-production phase, my primary responsibilities revolved around the creation and editing of visual effects (VFX) shots for our film, as well as audio synchronisation and partial audio design. While working on editing the VFX shots, a key lesson I gleaned during the process was the paramount importance of adhering to the fundamental principle frequently emphasised in tutorials: “shoot for edit.”

One of the notable challenges I encountered involved creating VFX shots that depicted Rose and her various personalities sharing the same physical space and engaging in dialogue. To achieve this effect, our group devised a technique involving quick panning within the shots. While this method added a dynamic element to the visual narrative, it also introduced a substantial editing challenge. The panning speed and dimensional movement in the footage did not align precisely, which made it considerably challenging to seamlessly merge two distinct pieces of footage into a single, cohesive composition.

This experience highlighted the significance of fine planning and execution during the shooting phase. It further emphasises the importance of achieving consistency in camera movement and angles to facilitate smoother and more convincing VFX integration in the post-production stage. The realisation of this principle has undoubtedly enriched my understanding of the filmmaking process and will inform our approach to future projects.

 

Experiment:

Intro with Audio

 

• At least 300 of the above 800 words must be on collaboration (over the whole semester). Working individually is just as valid a thing to write about as group work. Appraise how you went with it this semester—its pitfalls and upsides (discuss group work done during weekly activities).

Collaboration:

As I reflect on my work and the collaborative process that unfolded over the semester, I find a sense of contentment with my personal contributions and my individual creative journey. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the dynamics within our team posed certain challenges that, in turn, offered valuable insights into the world of collaboration. The team’s diverse perspectives and skills significantly enriched our brainstorming sessions, fostering the development of a more well-rounded concept and storyline. The group dynamic was undoubtedly an upside, as it allowed us to draw from a wide range of creative ideas, leading to a more comprehensive exploration of the theme and being central to the evolution of our project.

Nevertheless, group work was not without its challenges. Differing opinions and creative conflicts occasionally emerged, making it a complex endeavour to reach a consensus without anyone feeling that their creative vision was disregarded. Effective communication and compromise were required to resolve Learning to navigate these conflicts was instructive, ultimately strengthening our teamwork and conflict resolution skills. Navigating these creative conflicts proved to be a rich learning experience in the realm of collaborative work. It underscored the importance of constructive teamwork and the necessity of compromise when personal preferences diverge. These challenges also provided a crucial lesson in striking a balance between advocating for one’s artistic ideas and being receptive to those of others.

As we look forward to future projects, there are a couple of aspects that I would approach differently. Firstly, I would place a higher emphasis on establishing more concrete agreements with the team in terms of roles, commitment, and responsibilities. This would help streamline our workflow and ensure everyone is on the same page. Secondly, I would assert my artistic preferences more assertively, particularly in moments of creative pressure. While I value collaboration and compromise, I also recognise the importance of preserving one’s artistic vision.

In conclusion, our collaborative experience, despite its challenges, has proven to be a valuable and enriching journey. These experiences have underscored the importance of effective teamwork, communication, and compromise, which will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for future projects. The key takeaway is that a well-balanced approach is essential. Group work fosters creativity and diverse perspectives, while individual tasks demand self-reliance and precision. The semester taught us that collaboration, whether on an individual or group level, is vital for successful project development. The experience improved our communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution skills, equipping us with valuable lessons to apply to future projects.

 

• C) Write one reflection on, or response to, the content of the presentation in Week 9 by student work other than your own (minimum 500 words).

The presentation for “The Omniverse” from Chole, Jacquelyn, and Owen offers an intriguing glimpse into what promises to be a captivating and thought-provoking short film. The concept revolves around two individuals, each at different points in their lives and emotional states, who are thrust into the Omniverse, a parallel universe. Their mission was to construct a time machine that could rescue their own universe from the brink of existence. It’s a narrative setup reminiscent of science fiction classics like “Blade Runner 2049” and the multiverse exploration found in “Into the Spider-Verse,” promising a blend of thrilling sci-fi elements and a deep exploration of human emotion.

One of the most compelling aspects of this project is the focus on growth and the process of overcoming trauma. It’s an emotionally resonant theme that has the potential to strike a chord with audiences. The contrast between the two main characters, one who has lost hope and the other just beginning their journey, sets the stage for a powerful narrative arc. This exploration of emotional and psychological transformation within the context of a sci-fi thriller promises to make “The Omniverse” a unique and engaging experience.

The team’s choice of inspiration, including “Everything Everywhere All at Once” and the concept of the multiverse, underscores the depth and complexity of the story they aim to tell. These references point to a narrative that explores different views of time and space, delving into the concept of modal realism and the existence of multiple possible worlds. Such intellectual and philosophical underpinnings in a short film are a testament to the team’s ambition and desire to create a thought-provoking piece of work.

The attention to cinematography is also noteworthy. The team’s decision to use basic shooting angles, dynamic lenses, close-ups, and the widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio reflects a commitment to creating a visually striking and immersive experience. These choices suggest that the team is not only focused on the narrative but also on the visual and sensory aspects of the film, which can be pivotal in drawing audiences into the story.

Furthermore, in the technical realm, the team has thoughtfully considered all aspects of filmmaking, including all aspects of production. The decision to employ green screen technology and professional cameras is a strategic choice that can significantly enhance the visual and technical quality of the film. Green screen technology enables the team to create visually stunning and immersive environments, transporting the audience to different worlds within the Omniverse. Coupled with the use of professional cameras, this choice ensures that the visual fidelity and production values of the film will be of the highest standard.

However, what truly stands out in the post-production phase is the team’s innovative approach. By implementing AI-generated programmes and deep-fake technology, they are pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual effects. This choice aligns with the central theme of the project and serves as the focal point of the studio’s creative direction. The use of AI-generated programmes and deep-fake technology can bring an element of unpredictability and surrealism to storytelling, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. Moreover, the incorporation of AI-generative programmes offers the team the opportunity to experiment with creative and artistic expression, potentially leading to groundbreaking visual effects and narrative techniques. The decision to embrace such cutting-edge technology underscores the team’s desire to challenge traditional filmmaking norms and explore new horizons in the art of storytelling.

In essence, “The Omniverse” appears to be a well-rounded project that takes into account narrative, emotional depth, philosophical exploration, and visual aesthetics. The combination of these elements, coupled with the team’s clear passion and inspiration, holds the promise of a short film that can leave a lasting impact on its viewers. Overall, the presentation demonstrates a comprehensive and thoughtful approach to the various facets of filmmaking, making “The Omniverse” a project to look forward to.

 

Behind the scene photos