Childrens film opening scene evaluation.

http://www.4shared.com/file/Ori-bF1P/Childrens_film_opening_EVALUAT.html

Evaluating childrens sequence

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Alex's Evaluation

Evaluation

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Stacey - Evaluation

Children’s film evaluation

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What we thought of our feedback

Overall we thought our peer feedback was generally quite good as everyone pointed out the main features of our opening sequence.

If we did this project again we would add more of a variety of camera shots and add in some special effects were appropriate.

Group Feedback

As part of our evaluation we constructed some group feedback.

Conventions of opening sequence?

We included a title sequence, and the introduction of main characters which we think was quite effective. 

Specific genre conventions?

We included a soundtrack that is relevant to the fantasy genre, the font used in the title sequence and colour used for the font were we also thought to be specific to the fantasy genre because of the star's to dot the "i". We also tried to create an effective scene with the props and costumes which transfered to video well.

Variety and quality of camera work?

Our camerawork we thought was effective. However, some of our shots were quite long and we could of increased the variety of shots used.

Use of special effects?

As we didn’t include any special effects we couldn't comment.

Sound quality and effectiveness?

We thought our audio sync with the music-visual was good. Our audio was clear and as we didn't include any dialogue we didn't have a problem with clarity

Use of mise-en-scene?

Our mise en scene was limited but we thought it was effective for the genre of our sequence

Editing?

We thought the editing was good, crisp and smooth.

Best features?

We think that the best feature of our opening sequence was the quality of editing.

Peer Feedback

To find out if our opening sequence was of a high standard and contained all of the conventions we asked for some peer feedback. Here are the results:

Conventions of opening sequence?

Those asked commented that we included introduction of characters, title sequence and a soundtrack as well as establishing and tracking shots.

Specific genre conventions?

Those asked commented that we included a soundtrack that is relevant to the fantasy genre, the font used in the title sequence and colour used for the font were also thought to be specific to the fantasy genre as were the props and costumes.

Variety and quality of camera work?

Those asked commented that we didn’t include a variety of shots and some of the shots were too long however the shots we did include they commented that the shots conveyed realism and that the camera work was good and that the camera was kept steady throughout.

Use of special effects?

As we didn’t include any special effects there weren’t any comments for this.

Sound quality and effectiveness?

Those asked commented that the sound quality was very clear and fitted the footage really well. It was also commented that the titles appearing with the beat was a good effect.

Use of mise-en-scene?
It was commented that even though it was limited the mise-en-scene was good and suited the genre.

Editing?

It was commented that we used good transitions and they were effective.

Best features?

Those asked said that the point of view shots and the soundtrack were the best features of our opening sequence.

Final Opening Sequence: The Magician's Quest

Opening Sequence Conventions

Morals
Mood/Atmosphere - must be the overall mood & atmosphere of the film
Engage audience - instantly
Introduction of plot
Equilibrium- everything's ok
Action
Soundtrack
Credits
Outline the character personality -  of the main characters
Not always human
Builds tension - not always
Easy to follow - a must, can't jump around
Sets scene/location - the main locations
Humour - must be funny for the audience, obvious it's a joke
Shows genre - clearly, instantly
Colourful/ colour presentation

By Alex Breeze

Children's Film Characteristics

Children's films have a mix of characteristics, these are:


Quite upbeat and jolly music. 
Colourful lights, sunshine.
Outdoor/ school setting
Range of different shots
Clear the background area
Easy to understand narrative
Likable characters
PG or U certificate
Hardly any violence
No sex scenes


By Jake

Editing

For us it is essential that we edit our opening sequence correctly as we want it to have a professional finish as well as having the correct conventions in the final edit.

To begin with we created a basic edit of the film and ordered each of the clips we needed to add the transitions and credits.

Through editing our opening sequence we encountered one problem, as we lost some of our footage however we managed to find this.

In our planning stage we didn't take into consideration the credits and we lost some of our editing time as we hadn't decided on fonts and colours to use for this. Although we have found a contrasting colour to the footage and a colour that also represents the genre but isn't specific to a gender so it should appeal to both boys and girls. The font we haven chosen should appeal to children as it has got soft edges and is quite magical.

We also referred back to our storyboard so that we could stick to our original plan and make sure we used our footage in the right places although we did make some small changes to our original idea.

By Stacey Hubbard
& Jack McCurdy

Soundtrack

The soundtrack of our film is created to fit in with the genre, in order to do this effectively we needed to use the soundtrack to convey all different emotions such as danger, excitement, anger, etc. But most of all the soundtrack should be something that gets stuck in your head as with films such as 'Ghost Busters' and 'Labyrinth'.

We are in charge of making our soundtrack and should take into consideration these conventions when doing it.

By Jake and Alex

Fantasy Adventure Conventions

Our film, 'The Magician's Quest' is a fantasy adventure film. The film fits this genre as it involves events that wouldn't happen in real life although the film does begin realistically in the end the story has events that could never really happen and the main characters embark on a journey together.

Within our film opening sequence the audience are introduced to the magician who is carrying a magical stick, both of these things are identified as conventions of the fantasy genre. The audience is also introduced the 'geek' who will go on a quest set by the magician, this journey fits into the adventure genre, as in this genre one of the key conventions which is new experiences.

By Stacey Hubbard

Filming

On the first day of filming we filmed the establishing shots and the majority of our walking shots.

On the second day of filming we filmed the scenes in the learning resource centre.

On the third day of filming we filmed the final magician scenes.

By Stacey Hubbard
& Jack McCurdy

Toy Story Opening Sequence Analysis

Toy Story is one of the most iconic children’s animation films of all time, setting a benchmark for all brilliant Children’s Animations.

Toy Story opens with a scene that establishes that this is a children's film from the opening shot. The wallpaper with fluffy clouds and crisp blue sky is classic of a happy, positive children's wallpaper. Followed by the tracking shot of the boxes constructed by a child’s hands, with rough crayon drawings it is clear that the film is not going to be aimed at the mature demographic of viewers. Further conventions displayed in the initial opening sequence are the Toys that Andy uses to recreate a scene from a western. He uses toys that do not properly represent the characters that would be in a western, he mixes Bo-Peep, Aliens, a Dog and a Dinosaur into the scene, truly representative of a child’s mind and the greyness in their mind of what is possible and what is not. Another characteristic of his Toys is Woody, Andy’s hero. It is typical of children to have a favourite toy and for the child to idolise this toy and a bond is created, that can be seen in the rest of the sequence, between Andy and Woody that is not evident between Andy and his other toys.

The second part of the opening sequence is credits with a theme song overlaid. This is typical of credits, and the song “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” is a happy song that also relates to the visual at the same time, highlighting Andy and Woody’s friendship.

However, from this we establish that the film is only a children's film. It isn’t until the end of the sequence that we find out the secret hiding from everyone in the story, other than the toys. After Andy leaves the room Woody gets up and starts talking and moving, as he does other toys begin to move and talk, and at this point we can clearly distinguish that this is a children's fantasy film.

My analysis is based around the first four minutes of this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5df-XAW3QE

Analysis of Childrens Film Opening Sequence

Chosen Film: Alvin and the Chipmunks the Squeakquel

The first thing you see in the opening sequence of this film is the media company (20^th century fox) and title sequence of the film.

This film is a mix of animation and real life acting, within the opening sequence you are introduced to all three chipmunks, Alvin, Simon and Theodore alongside their ‘guardian’ Dave. During this period you are able to establish the general characteristic of each character especially Alvin who is cheeky and quite a big show off. You also get a theme track as the chipmunks are singing, and are very quickly able to establish the genre of the film.

This film fits into the family animation fantasy comedy genre as it has talking animals (the chipmunks), and is meant for families to watch hence the U certification. It also has some comedy aspects throughout the film for all ages to enjoy.

The general narrative of the film is quite predictive within the first few minutes of the film.

The general locations is also set although the real main location of the school isn’t established until further into the film.

By Stacey Hubbard

Analysis of children's film opening sequence and conventions

Chosen children's film: Bolt

Bolt is a charming fantasy adventure film produced by the well known international company Walt Disney Pictures, released November 21st 2008. Walt Disney are known worldwide for not only their films but also their merchandise and ever popular resorts situated all around the world.  Bolt follows the life of a pet super-dog who lives an action packed life of danger and zero consequence, up till the cameras stop rolling. He lives a life of confort and excitment until he accidently gets shipped off to New York City where the pampered pooch has to fend for himself inorder to get back to his owner and co-star, Penny. 

The conventions of an opening sequence within a childrens film mainly consist of: introducing the main characters, establishment of location, genre music/theme tune, title sequences and an introduction into the evil character (stereotypically, as most childrens films have one).

The opening sequence for Bolt consists of two parts. First off you are shown what Bolts character is like, as he is different from the other dogs and so behaves diferently making it obvious that Bolt is the focus. Penny then gets introduced as she decides to choose Bolt out of all the other dogs and also is represented to be the only human in the frame and so making it obvious she is one of the main characters. It also shows immediatly the realtion between the two main characters. The establishment of location shows that they are in a city as you can see in the reflection of the pet shop window you can see roads and other houses.  The genre of music during the first couple of minutes fits the criteria of a childrens film because it if uplifting but deep music, just another classic sound track with pure thought and emotion from Walt Disney Pictures. It is also the general theme tune of the film Bolt. Like any other film it also has the neccessary title sequences inorder to illustrate the different positions that were played.
Here is a link to view the first part to the opening sequence: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-ciInE4RfQ&feature=related

The second part of the opening sequence illutrates more the adventure/action part of the film because it shows what the characters are doing five years later. It begins by having climatic and upbeat music which dramatically changes the pace of the film from fun loving to action packed. The music automatically fits the conventions of an action film because its upbeat, loud and climatic. Also it has the occasional computer/technology sound which many spy/action films have. This part of the opening sequence also has an introduction into the supposedly evil character, however you later are informed that he's just the evil character for the programme they are filming within the film. It also has the occasional slow motion shots where the character bolt is slowly flying through the air which fit the conventions of the action/adventure genre. The fantasy element of the film is initialised with Bolt's special powers however again, you later realise that thats just but of the tv show and so is fake, but the fantasy elemtent is reinstated when the animal characters begin to talk, which fits perfectly into the conventions of the fantasy childrens film genre.
Here is part of the action half of the opening sequence: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwBsq6dL_b0&feature=related
 

By Alex Breeze

The lion King opening sequence- Jake Cowie

The film is explained almost just by the title, it sets the scene by naming the one thing that the film is based around; the Lion King. The events that take place in the film are all a consequence of the status of being the Lion King. Therefore this shows that the film title is relevant to the film.

Throughout the opening sequence one song is played, this song is called 'The Circle of Life'. The song symbolises new life. The 'circle of life' is shown throughout the whole film as a basis for what happens. The song sets the scene and makes it a big part of the film, this is done by the way in which all the animals in the opening sequence respond the this song. This shows that this is clearly an important part of the story- the birth of Simba. Although there is no dialogue in the opening sequence, we are still introduced to the main characters of the story. From the way in which the characters are shown tells us who is the main character. The opening sequence shows that the animals are united and all rely on the 'king'. They are all a family, not just the separate animals, this shows that the theme of love is shown throughout the film. Simba is outlined as the main character, this scene quickly shows this as all the animals are there to see him after his birth. Rifiki, the monkey who holds Simba up to the world is shown as a main character in the film as when he greets Mufassa with a hug- outlining the love in the film between all the species not just one group. In the opening sequence we meet Mufassa, Simba, Rifiki, Sarabi. These characters are therefore seen as important characters as they are introduced first.

By Jake Cowie

Production Planning

Mind map

The definition of a mind map is the exploration of a thought process and mainly consists of a main theme and then smaller branches of thought coming off of it, breaking it down into broader ideas. This can help expand and develop initial ideas of film producers.

Story Board

The definition of a story board is a pictorial step by step screen shot, taking you through the production. It also provides such information as to describe what is happening and needed in every individual shot. All major productions begin with a story board. It also helps the group as it gives a reference to what needs to be done.

Risk assessment

Risk assessment is when the producers of the film assess the possible risks during production.

Shot list

Is a list of all the shots that are needed for each scene in the production and the number of the specific frame. This also helps as a reference to look back and check with.

Children's Action Film - Spy Kids

Spy Kids is a childrens action adventure film that follows the traditional conventions of a childrens action adventure film. in the opening sequence is is obvious that the film has a large budget as the opening shot is a large tracking shot over a wide area, which is classic of a film with a big budget. 

The film also introduces the main characters right at the beginning, also highlighting that there are "good guys" and "bad guys" as the shots focussing on the good guys compared the bad guys are different, this is also represented in the diegetic and non diegetic sounds. The non-diegetic soundtrack at the beginning is dramatic and builds the sense of adventure and action. 

British Board of Film Classification

PG is a abrieviation for Parental Guidance, this certificate is given to a film when it complies with the boudaries of the guidelines of the British Board of Film Classification. PG means that anyone below the age of 12 needs to be accompanied by an adult.

The guidelines for a PG are as follows; 

• Discrimination: Discrimination where children can identify it is very unlikely to appear.
• Drugs: Use or reference of illegal drugs must not be in a harmful way or must carry a strong anti-drug message.
• Horror: there should be no extended or prolonged frightening scenes which my frighten the viewers. 
• Imitable behaviour: No scenes which could possibly be copied by young children. No glamorisation of easily accessible weapons.
• Language: Mild language is acceptable but bad language is rarely used. 
• Nudity: Natural nudity with no sexual reference. 
• Sex: Implied sexual activity is acceptable however it shouldn't be frequent and discreet. 
• Theme: Mild domestic violence can be shown however anything more is not acceptable. 
• Violence: Moderate violece may be used only justified by its context for example for comedic value. Violence must not contain detail.

Jake
Alex

British Board of Film Classification

The British board of film classification is a body that is independent from the government which classifies the cinema films and videos according to the content. The BBFC was set up in 1912 although the guidelines in which it follows are updated every four years.

The film certificate 'U' stands for universal which means the films which are awarded this certificate should be suitable for all especially pre-school children. Within the films that are awarded this certificate there should be no use of illegal drugs or any drug misuse, There should also be no discrimination and if there is this should be clearly disapproved of due to the young audience. Also because of the young audience imitable behaviour should be kept moderate such as use of easily accessible weapons, language and behaviour. There should be no horror content and if there is this should be kept to a minimum and have a reassuring outcome so as not to frighten the young and vulnerable audience. Nudity may only be included in the 'U' certificate if there is no sexually explicit intentions. Similarly sex scenes can only include mild references such as kissing. The theme cannot be traumatic for the young audience as they are easily influenced. Also within the film violent scenes must be kept to a minimum and can only be used mildly.

12 and 12A are classified in the same way the only difference being 12A is used in cinemas only. To view a 12A film you must be ages 12 or over or be accompanied by an adult.

Discrimination used within 12 and 12A must be justified or condemned.  The use of drugs cannot be frequent and or glamorised in any way.  Frequent and sustained horror must not be used, however physical and psychological horror may be used in moderation. Dangerous and harmful imitable behaviour must not be glamorised or appear to be harm free as the audience is still impressionable. Bad language can be used but extreme bad language must be used within moderation and be infrequent. Brief and discreet nudity and scenes of a sexual nature may be included however frequent crude references should not be included.  Mature themes are permitted although they must still be suitable for young teenagers. Violence with in 12 films is allowed although there should be no emphasis on the detail.



No one under the age of 15 may view a film in the cinema with a certificate of 15 this is due to the content which is deemed unsuitable for children under this age. In these films they may not encourage or promote discriminatory behaviour or language although drug taking may be shown but also can not promote or encourage the use of drugs also within this category drugs which are easily accessible and extremely dangerous is not acceptable. No horror that is deemed to be sadistic or sexualised is permitted in the certificate. Also withing the certificate the films shouldn't focus on detail which is dangerous and could be copied also dangerous weapns shouldn't be glamourised. You may hear frequent use of strong language although the strongest terms may be used if fitting within the context they are used. Nudity is permitted with a sexual nature but only if isn't focused upon, however nudity is permitted with no restraint when used outside of sexual content. Any theme is permitted so long as it is suitable for viewing for all of the 15 year old age group and above. Sexual content maybe accepted as long as it isn't focused upon too much. Violence can be included which is strong although it cannot focus upon injury or the infliction of pain to a great extent.


No one below of the age of 18 can buy or rent an 18 certificated film.

The BBFC's guidelines state that adults should be free to chose their own entertainment, however with the following exceptions, there should be no content which should break the law, may cause harm to any individual, and where there is any explicit  images which cannot be justified by the context.




OUR CHILDRENS FILM OPENING SEQUENCE:

We have decided that our children's film opening sequence will be a PG as we feel this will still appeal to the children's age group as the content will still be suitable for them to view, but it also gives us more freedom with what we can include in the opening sequence as it isn't as strict as the U certificate.

Stacey Hubbard
Jack McCurdy

Adventure Fantasy Film Analysis: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Charlie and the Chocolate factory fits into the two genres of fantasy and adventure as it includes fictional factors such as the character Violet being changed into a giant blueberry, and the factory itself uses extravagant methods to produce the chocolate. These usually unbelievable characteristics in the film enable it to be characterized as a fantasy film. Also towards the end of the film Charlie and Willy Wonka leave through the glass elevator which leaves through the roof which also wouldn't happen in real life.

This film can be included within the adventure genre as it follows the journey of Charlie as he comes from a poor lifestyle and is then given the chance to change this when he enters the chocolate factory as each room is a different experience. Also each of the other four children have their own journey's within the factory alongside Charlie's which provides an exciting story for the audience to watch.

Stacey Hubbard & Alex Breeze

Preliminary Task

This task has helped us learn more about continuity to aid us through the production process to create a professional looking opening sequence. This task also helped us learn more about the equipment and learn each others capabilities in relation to camerawork, directing and acting.