Film Studies Week 31

Good evening and welcome to week 31!

It’s that hectic time of year: come back from break to three half-days, conferences and the testing season!

We finished out study of Spielberg last week with Raiders of the Lost Ark and discussing the storytelling aspect of his films. As we transition into making our own films, I’m being even more selective than usual about what we’re studying in class. The element of filmmaking that students have the most control over is cinematography and when it comes to excellent cinematography the films that come to mind are Daniel Craig’s tenure as James Bond.

Over the next few weeks we’ll view Casino Royale and Skyfall to examine Sam Mendes’ use of camera angles, framing, camera movement, editing choices, color and lighting. The secondary focus areas are soundtrack, set design, props and costume. We’ll also get to see the evolution of the character from reboot beginning to what is arguably his peak.

The goal is to get the students to recognize what the effects are of deliberate cinematography choices and how to replicate them in their own films.

What’s new with Mr. Dudek?
Between yearbook, volleyball, 3 kids, and a pregnant wife . . . I’m completely spent.

Have a great weekend roadrunners!
Mr. Dudek
pdudek@santancs.com