Keaton Fenwick - Design, Arts, and Technology Capstone Research Post 1

BLOG POST: SUMMARY
As I start my capstone project, I've been focusing on building a strong foundation for my short film, which is heavily inspired by the original Red Dawn movie. However, I want to expand on that concept in a modern-day environment with a darker, more intense theme. Over the past few weeks, I've outlined the film's core elements, gathered essential production assets, and most importantly conducted research on cinematic and audio techniques to help start shaping the overall style and feel of the project. So, let's talk about what I have done so far and discuss some of the research I have conducted.

THE SHORT FILM PROCESS: INTRODUCTION

To begin what I have done, I wrote out the essential information about my short film, its title, description, and thematic focus. This helped establish a clear vision for the project and provided a structured approach moving forward. I also created detailed character profiles, ensuring that each character has depth, motivation, and a role that contributes meaningfully to the story. Alongside this, I outlined the different scenes and developed individual plots for each, ensuring they flow smoothly and serve the film's overall narrative as well as began writing out a script for each of those scenes.

 

THE SHORT FILM PROCESS: ESSENTIAL ASSETS

A major milestone in my project so far has been acquiring the necessary assets for production. I've gathered a high-definition cinematic drone, a high-definition mountable GoPro camera, professional video and audio production software, several essential props and secured permission to film at key locations. These resources will allow me to create a visually stunning and immersive experience for the audience while maintaining high production value.

RESEARCH: VISUAL/AUDIO TECHNIQUES:

Beyond story development, I've delved into research on various filming techniques to enhance the visual and auditory experience. I explored different shot compositions, lighting setups, and camera movements to determine the best ways to create tension, drama, and atmosphere. Given the darker theme of my film, studying horror cinematography has been particularly valuable, as I learned how lighting and framing can manipulate fear and suspense.

Collider discusses various methods filmmakers employ to evoke fear and tension. It highlights the strategic use of jump scares, where sudden visual and auditory cues startle viewers, and the manipulation of negative space, which involves directing attention to seemingly empty areas of the frame to build suspense. The piece also examines the impact of body horror and irregular movements, noting how unnatural physical performances can disturb audiences. Additionally, it touches on the use of infrasound—low-frequency sounds that are felt more than heard—to create unease. These techniques, among others, are utilized to craft memorable and frightening experiences in horror cinema.

10 Crafty Film Techniques Horror Movies Use to Scare Audiences

Sound is equally crucial in storytelling, so I researched audio techniques that could enhance different moods. I examined how sound design plays a role intensifying horror scenes, maintaining action-packed sequences, and creating moments of calmness to contrast the more intense parts of the film. Understanding these elements will help me craft an emotionally engaging and high-impact film. 

Artlist explores various methods to enhance the fear factor in horror films through sound design. It distinguishes between diegetic sounds, which originate within the film's world (like screams or footsteps), and non-diegetic sounds, added in post-production (such as musical scores or designed effects). The piece highlights instruments commonly associated with horror, including strings, synthesizers, theremins, and guitars, noting their effectiveness in creating tension and unease. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of Foley sounds, sampling, and experimenting with sonic textures to build suspense. The strategic use of negative space, or intentional silence, is also discussed as a technique to amplify fear by keeping audiences on edge.

Horror Sound Effects Tips and Tricks | Artlist

Every film has a unique aesthetic, and I wanted to refine the stylistic elements of my project. I looked into different approaches to visual storytelling, color grading techniques, and pacing methods that align with the genre and tone I'm aiming for. Since the original Red Dawn balanced action, patriotism, and tension, I am adapting those core themes with a darker, more contemporary twist, ensuring that my film remains gripping and thought-provoking.

Beverly Boy Productions delves into the concept of aesthetics as it pertains to filmmaking. It defines aesthetics as the philosophy of art, emphasizing its role in analyzing film design and the various elements that contribute to a movie's visual appeal. Key components such as color, shape, pattern, lines, texture, balance, scale, proximity, and movement are highlighted as crucial in shaping a film's aesthetic. The piece underscores the importance of these elements in defining a film's style, subject, and tone. For instance, a filmmaker might choose black and white imagery to convey a bleak atmosphere, aligning with the narrative's themes. Additionally, the article touches upon various disciplines within film aesthetics, including cinematography, sound recording, makeup, and costume design, all of which contribute to the overall artistic expression of a film.

What is Aesthetics in Film? - Beverly Boy Productions

BLOG POST: CONCLUSION AND LOOKING AHEAD

With the groundwork laid and assets in place, my next steps involve refining the script, planning shot lists, and beginning pre-production preparations. As I continue this journey, I am excited to do more research and apply what I've learned to bring my vision to life. Stay tuned as I learn more about this process and for updates as the project unfolds.