Before producing a media product,I had researched and planed into the forms and conventions of real media products similar to our title sequence.As the title sequence was developed, I referred to the typical forms and conventions,thus producing a media product.Our title sequence "Change the Beat" is hybrid genre made up of dance,tragedy and an element of romance.The narrative is based on the main characters life (Frankie) and how he copes with his disability,whilst aspiring to be a dancer.Frankie is unable the way he used to because of his back injury causing him to break his spine in his early years.He eventually finds a way to continue following his career ,whilst in a wheelchair,through helping others who are in similar situation.
Our media product portrays this narrative,whilst incorporating the media codes and conventions in the sequence.Throughout the title sequence,elements of dance themed codes and conventions were incorporated into the scenes to create an idea,that it has something to do with dance/movement, whilst acknowledging the genre and narrative but without giving too much away. The various camera angles,shots and movement also give an edgy effect of "change the beat" with the sound and the Mise-en-scene(Costume,props,sound,make-up & lighting) it keeps the sequence,modern & fresh whilst keeping the audience interested. Props:remote,wheelchair,xray,shirt & tie.Sound:hip-hop style dance music and sound for the main character(Frankie)Lighting:natural daylight.
The typography is bright,fast paced and represents the dance aspect of the sequence because the colour gold portrays winning/reaching your goals,making it in life.Which is what this film is about and the message that we are trying to get to the audience. The anchorage between the titles and the narrative was made easier once we knew the message we wanted to echo in the sequence.I aso felt that the continuity of the sequence was shown well, which obviously linked the story together,preventing confusion.
How does your media product represent particular social groups?
The target audience we chose to target,was an group from 15-24.We felt that young people would preferable like to watch contemporary/modern dance and from research most young people have free time in the summer break,an ideal time to release a movie.They also have more disposal income.I think that this age group can somewhat identify with the storyline ,characters and relate it to their on lives because of the whole theme about mistakes leading to problems and making yourself out of nothing linking the idea of "Change the Beat" which relates to changing your path or lifestyle.I also feel that this social group are represented in "Change the Beat" title sequence because I have Incorporated young actors,which I felt portrayed the narrative well,by making it easier for the audience to relate to the characters,thus creating a relationship with the audience whilst representing the group in a way that is understandable.The representations of young people in "Change the Beat" is shown in a positive way,by giving the impression that they are not lazy or bound by their problem.They are ambitious,lively and in control of their life,which means they can take action and change their lives for the better in so many ways even if it seems impossible.The narrative presents this social group as believers,open minded,having faith and hope in life.This may change the perception of this social group and create an understanding with others,therefore making Young people feel like they are not alone,whilst encouraging young people.The title sequence would also capture the eyes of this age group because from research this group has many interests,hobbies and lifestyle issues(background information) that could possibly determine their decision in whether or not to view this energetic,fun dance with an element of romance and tragedy film.I feel that the narrative was expressed well through the various forms of camera angles,shots and mise-en-scene.
The sequence represents gender in a positive way,suggesting that no matter what gender you are you have the freedom to choose the path you want and live the live you want.In our sequence a strong white male is represented as determinate and motivated.The targeted age group is between 15-24 because the representations, we were hoping to portray were an ambitious,energetic and lively side to a young person's life.a group that is ready to face any changes that come their way;for the better or the worst. A negative representation of disability is shown in the sequence because the character is seen looking unhappy in his situation,the fact that someone helps him portrays that people with disabilities need assistance,however a positive side to this is that he has the choice and freedom to move where ever and when ever he wants.
What kind of media institution might distribute your media product and why?
As a group we researched media institutions that may distribute our media product.We came to a conclusion that Paramount pictures was the best institutions for our product because they are well known (Part of the Big six)and distribute popular teen movies based on romance/dance/tragedy such as (save the last dance,dance flick,step up,footloose etc.)which are aimed at our target market.This means that our movie would fit in and sell well with this media institution.
Who would be the audience for your media product?
The 15-24 year old target market would be the audience for "Change the beat"media product because they are best suited for this movie and the narrative could possibly relate to them.This is shown through the Mise-en-scene that is used in the movie.The characters are roughly the same age as the audience,making it easier for them to connect on this level. Myself and my group did some research before creating "Change the beat".We found that dance films were really were popular with this age group.For example step up,you got served and so on.
How did you attract/address your audience?
I think that we have reached/ attracted/addressed our audience through the construction of our new film idea.This is a good way of attracting an audience because it creates interest and excitement for something they haven't seen before.I think that in planning this film idea ,we thought about the type of sound/music that would appeal to our target.We also thought about the transitions and camera shots that enhanced the images in the sequence.I also believe that using characters similar to the audience,did help draw their attention because they can easily relate to their age group.From the feedback my group received;the audience felt that the music went well with dance scene.However the thought improvements needed to be done on the camera angles and the wheelchair movements in the other scenes.Also the audience commented on the wheelchair music and said it was too country and exciting,so we changed it too a more soothing and calm sound to suit the main character (Frankie) This was eventually improved and now the audience thinks that it's much better.
Overall,The sequence draws the audience in from the opening scene,when the main character dances before the accident happens.This draws the audience in because of the performance element.The character expresses himself in a creative way,giving the audience something fun and entertaining to enjoy;a story told through dance rather than orally, in order to intrigue the audience.We were able to fulfill the audience expectation because we knew the style of dance popular amongst that target audience.
What have you learnt about technologies from the process of constructing this product?
The technologies used were the Mac's,whereby programmes such as final cut pro, imovie and photo shop software were used.I used final cut pro to edit "Change the Beat" title sequence to get a better quality and a more professional look. At first final cut pro was proving difficult to use,only because i hadn't used it in quite a while.As we experienced with final cut pro we eventually got a hang of it.I think that I learnt a range of new editing skills,new ways of editing.In the end I felt that I had edited the sequence to the best of my ability with the help and input from my team members.IMovie software was used to put our storyboard photos on to make a video as an example for how the final one would look like.I found imovie easier than final cut pro.Photo shop was quite a challenge at first but after reading the instructions and practicing on the software,it did become less challenging and more useful.We used photo shop to edit our production logo and chest xray picture.I learnt that using final cut pro was very useful,productive and better to use when editing footage.The only I would want is more transitions and a better way/tool for making the title look effective.
Over all,the process of filming to editing is a necessity of ensuring that the right shots/angles and limitations as well as the capabilities of final cut pro are done in the production process.I have learnt that the technologies are quite complex and difficult but once you have the skills needed,the production process becomes so much easier.
Looking back at your preliminary task, what do you feel you have learnt in the progression from it to the full product?
I have learnt that when it comes to filming I should voice my opinions more often because this could determine whether or not we get it right,in terms of making the sequence look more professional by adding more camera angles and shots.Also I have learnt that it is better to film everything in the daylight because it is difficult to edit poor lit footage on final cut pro.It is also a better idea to keep the camera steady and fixed well on the tripod to create a good effect when filming.Another thing I have learnt is that I shouldn't rely on actors or team members sometimes because they can deceive/let you down.For example actors arriving late or members not attending or bringing important equipment.This has taught me to plan ahead by having a back up plan if all goes wrong next time.Finally I have learnt to use my editing skills to improve the sequence and use constructive criticism to get a better outcome.
Looking back at your preliminary task, what do you feel you have learnt in the progression from it to the full product?
I have learnt that when it comes to filming I should voice my opinions more often because this could determine whether or not we get it right,in terms of making the sequence look more professional by adding more camera angles and shots.Also I have learnt that it is better to film everything in the daylight because it is difficult to edit poor lit footage on final cut pro.It is also a better idea to keep the camera steady and fixed well on the tripod to create a good effect when filming.Another thing I have learnt is that I shouldn't rely on actors or team members sometimes because they can deceive/let you down.For example actors arriving late or members not attending or bringing important equipment.This has taught me to plan ahead by having a back up plan if all goes wrong next time.Finally I have learnt to use my editing skills to improve the sequence and use constructive criticism to get a better outcome.
After doing the continuity sequence,I have seen the progress that I have made and was able to apply my skills and knowledge from the continuity sequence task to Change the beat title sequence.This task tested myself and my groups continuity editing skills and knowledge.I think that most of the skills learnt should have been implemented into change the beat sequence.
