Connect with us

Advice

Best Student Film Award Winner: The Big Pelvis

Published

on

The Big Pelvis


Houston, Texas- The Lone Star State has long been a hub of creativity and talent in the world of filmmaking, and Joseph Jeavons is a shining example of the Texas filmmaking spirit. Hailing from Dallas and just a freshman in college, Joseph is already making waves in the industry with his film, “The Big Pelvis.”

The Big Pelvis: A Texas Gem

Directed by Joseph Jeavons, “The Big Pelvis” is a comedic masterpiece that captures the essence of Texas humor and storytelling. It’s a story that unfolds once a month, involving three determined fishermen who will stop at nothing to catch the legendary and elusive “Big Pelvis” before their rival does.

But what makes “The Big Pelvis” truly special is Joseph’s ability to weave together humor, heart, and tradition in a way that resonates with audiences. It’s a testament to his storytelling prowess and his deep connection to the Texan culture.

Advertisement

Joseph Jeavons: A Rising Star

As a freshman in college, Joseph’s journey into the world of filmmaking is just beginning. However, his talent and dedication have already garnered attention and acclaim. He recently traveled to Houston to showcase “The Big Pelvis” at the Houston Comedy Film Festival, where it received recognition and accolades.

Joseph’s enthusiasm for filmmaking is infectious, and his commitment to his craft is evident in every frame of “The Big Pelvis.” He represents the next generation of Texas filmmakers, and his future in the industry looks incredibly promising.

The Road Ahead: Amazon Prime and Beyond

Advertisement

Not one to rest on his laurels, Joseph and his team are already hard at work on their next project. Thanks to an award they won for “The Big Pelvis” at a festival sponsored by Amazon Prime, they’re now embarking on a feature-length project for the streaming giant. This achievement is nothing short of remarkable, especially for a freshman in college.

Support Joseph Jeavons and “The Big Pelvis”

If you want to support Joseph Jeavons and his filmmaking journey, be sure to keep an eye out for “The Big Pelvis” and his upcoming projects. Joseph’s dedication to storytelling and his love for Texas culture shine through in his work, making it a delightful experience for audiences.

Stay connected with Joseph and his projects, and be part of his exciting journey in the world of filmmaking. The future is bright for this young Texan filmmaker, and we can’t wait to see what he creates next.

Advertisement

 

The Big PelvisSupport Their Crowdfunding Campaign:

If you want to be a part of supporting these talented local filmmakers and their upcoming projects, don’t miss the chance to contribute to their crowdfunding campaign, “Blood in the Snow.” You can watch their campaign video and contribute to their campaign on their IndieGoGo page here. Your support will help bring more laughter and entertainment to the world, something we all need to lift our spirits in these challenging times.

Contact Bolanle Media:

Are you a filmmaker or producer looking for top-notch media and marketing services for your movies and films? Look no further! Bolanle Media is here to help you shine in the spotlight. Contact us today to explore how we can collaborate on your next big project.

Advertisement

Email: hello@bolanlemedia.com Website: www.bolanlemedia.com Follow us: @bolanlemedia on social media

As we eagerly await the screening of “The Big Pelvis” at the Houston Comedy Film Festival Fall Edition, it’s clear that this film is set to make waves and leave audiences roaring with laughter. Don’t miss the chance to witness this heartwarming and side-splitting tale of tradition, rivalry, and reconnection. Be sure to mark your calendars and get ready for a cinematic experience like no other!

Continue Reading
Advertisement
1 Comment

1 Comment

  1. sklep internetowy

    March 27, 2024 at 2:26 pm

    I see You’re in reality a just right webmaster. The website loading pace
    is incredible. It seems that you’re doing any distinctive trick.

    Furthermore, the contents are masterwork.
    you’ve done a wonderful activity in this matter! Similar here: najlepszy sklep and also here:
    E-commerce

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Advice

How to Create Emotion in Film

Published

on

Emotions are the foundation of the human experience. They shape our decisions, color our memories, and drive our relationships. In cinema, emotions are not just an added layer—they are the very heart of storytelling. If a film leaves its audience unmoved, it is often deemed a failure. Understanding how emotions work, both psychologically and cinematically, reveals the secrets behind films that truly resonate.

The Psychology of Emotion

Where Do Emotions Come From?

Modern psychology has long sought to answer two central questions about emotion:

  • Where do emotions originate?
  • How can they be categorized?

For filmmakers, the origin of emotion is especially relevant. Evolutionary psychologists argue that basic emotions are products of natural selection, serving crucial roles in survival by aiding decision-making, motivation, socialization, and memory.

Components of Emotion

Psychologist Klaus Scherer identifies five components of emotion:

  1. Cognitive Appraisal: The brain’s identification of an emotion.
  2. Bodily Symptoms: Physical manifestations, like a racing heart.
  3. Action Tendencies: How we are motivated to respond.
  4. Expression: Outward signs, such as facial expressions or gestures.
  5. Feelings: The subjective experience of the emotion.

Theories of Emotional Experience

  • James-Lange Theory: Early theorists William James and Carl Lange posited that emotions are the result of physiological reactions. For example, “I’m sweaty, so I must be nervous.”
  • Cognitive Appraisal Theory: Richard Lazarus later argued that thought comes first. We appraise a situation, then experience both physiological and emotional reactions. One person might see a rat and feel fear; another might see the same rat and feel joy.

How to Create Emotion in Film

1. Write Emotion into the Script

  • Script as the Heart: The emotional impact of a film begins with its script. Audiences must care about the story and its characters; when characters feel, viewers feel.
  • Recontextualized Repetition: Repeating lines, objects, or motifs in new contexts gives them deeper meaning (e.g., the shoes in Jojo Rabbit or the song “Remember Me” in Coco).
  • Dialogue: Well-crafted dialogue can move through a spectrum of emotions, as seen in the monologue from Steel Magnolias, which shifts from sadness to rage.

Example: “Toy Story 2” Flashback

Jessie’s flashback uses dialogue, repetition, and context to build a powerful emotional arc, culminating in the line: “You never forget kids like Emily or Andy. But they forget you.”

2. Use Visual Storytelling to Evoke Feeling

  • Lighting: Sets the mood—low-key lighting creates tension (Alien), while bright light evokes relief (The Lord of the Rings).
  • Camera Angles and Movement: High angles can convey guilt (Manchester by the Sea), close-ups foster intimacy (Interstellar), and wide shots can evoke grandeur or loneliness (La La Land).
  • Color: Red can induce unease; cool tones suggest melancholy.
  • Framing: Focusing on faces or omitting them (as with Emily in Toy Story 2) centers the audience on the emotional experience.
  • Camera Movement: Moving toward a character can create empathy; pulling away can evoke isolation.

3. Hone Emotion in Post-Production

  • Editing: The rhythm of cuts and transitions can heighten or prolong emotion. Dissolves can evoke memory and nostalgia; hard cuts can underscore abrupt loss.
  • Music: Perhaps the most potent emotional tool, music can make us cry, thrill us, or terrify us. The song “When She Loved Me” in Toy Story 2 is a prime example.
  • Sound Design: Beyond music, sound effects can amplify tension or anxiety (e.g., the fry cracker in Boogie Nights).

Table: Filmmaking Techniques for Evoking Emotion

TechniqueExample Film/SceneEmotional Effect
Recontextualized RepetitionJojo Rabbit (Rosie’s shoes)Heightens heartbreak
DialogueSteel Magnolias (monologue)Shifts through grief and rage
LightingAlien (low-key), LOTR (bright)Fear, relief
Camera AnglesManchester by the Sea (high angle)Guilt, empathy
ColorToy Story 2 (golden to muted)Nostalgia, melancholy
EditingEternal Sunshine (intercutting)Nostalgia, longing
MusicToy Story 2 (“When She Loved Me”)Sadness, loss
Sound DesignBoogie Nights (crackers)Anxiety, tension

Conclusion

No two movies are alike, but the best films share a common goal: to move us. Whether through writing, visuals, editing, or sound, filmmakers draw on the science of emotion to craft experiences that linger long after the credits roll. Great films make us feel—sometimes joy, sometimes sorrow, but always something real.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Advice

10 Types of Shots Every Filmmaker Should Know

Published

on

Understanding camera shots is fundamental for new filmmakers. Each shot type not only frames your subject but also shapes the story, mood, and emotional impact of your film. Below is a detailed breakdown of the ten essential shots, with practical advice and tips to help you master them from the start.

1. Wide Shot (Long Shot)

  • What it is: Shows the subject within their environment, often from a distance.
  • Why it matters: Establishes context, location, and scale. It’s often used as an opening or establishing shot.
  • Beginner advice:
    • Use wide shots to orient your audience at the start of a scene.
    • Pay attention to composition—avoid cluttered backgrounds and keep the frame balanced.
    • Don’t be afraid to move your camera to find the most visually interesting angle.

2. Full Shot

  • What it is: Frames the subject from head to toe, including some background.
  • Why it matters: Captures body language and movement, crucial for action or dance scenes.
  • Beginner advice:
    • Use full shots to show physicality or when characters interact with their environment.
    • Make sure the subject isn’t too small in the frame—keep them prominent but not cramped.

3. Medium Shot

  • What it is: Frames the subject from the waist up.
  • Why it matters: Balances the subject and background, ideal for dialogue and character interaction.
  • Beginner advice:
    • Use medium shots for conversations and to show relationships between characters.
    • Watch for distracting elements in the background and keep the camera steady.

4. Medium Close-Up

  • What it is: Frames the subject from the chest or shoulders up.
  • Why it matters: Highlights facial expressions while still providing some context.
  • Beginner advice:
    • Use this shot to capture subtle emotions.
    • Ensure the subject’s eyes are in focus and well-lit.

5. Close-Up

  • What it is: Fills the frame with the subject’s face or a specific detail.
  • Why it matters: Captures emotions, reactions, and important details.
  • Beginner advice:
    • Use close-ups to emphasize key moments or reactions.
    • Avoid overusing close-ups; they’re most powerful when used sparingly.

6. Extreme Close-Up

  • What it is: Focuses on a very small detail, such as eyes, lips, or an object.
  • Why it matters: Intensifies emotion or draws attention to a critical element.
  • Beginner advice:
    • Use extreme close-ups to highlight something crucial or to create tension.
    • Make sure the detail you’re focusing on is relevant to the story.

7. Over-the-Shoulder Shot (OTS)

  • What it is: Shows the subject from behind another character’s shoulder.
  • Why it matters: Connects characters and provides the audience with a sense of perspective.
  • Beginner advice:
    • Use OTS shots in conversations to establish spatial relationships.
    • Maintain consistent eyelines and follow the 180-degree rule to avoid confusing the audience.

8. Point-of-View Shot (POV)

  • What it is: Shows the scene from a character’s perspective.
  • Why it matters: Immerses the audience in the character’s experience.
  • Beginner advice:
    • Use POV shots to make viewers feel part of the action.
    • Keep the camera movement natural—avoid shaky footage unless it serves the story.

9. High Angle Shot

  • What it is: Looks down on the subject from above.
  • Why it matters: Makes the subject appear smaller, weaker, or more vulnerable.
  • Beginner advice:
    • Use high angles to convey vulnerability or power dynamics.
    • Don’t overuse—reserve for moments when you want to emphasize a character’s situation.

10. Low Angle Shot

  • What it is: Looks up at the subject from below.
  • Why it matters: Makes the subject appear larger, more powerful, or imposing.
  • Beginner advice:
    • Use low angles to show dominance, heroism, or intimidation.
    • Be mindful of background elements—avoid clutter or distractions above your subject.

Essential Shot Composition Tips for New Filmmakers

  • Plan Your Shots: Create a shot list before filming. This helps you visualize each scene and ensures you capture all necessary angles.
  • Use a Tripod or Stabilization: Keep your shots steady, especially as a beginner. Shaky footage can distract from your story.
  • Frame Carefully: Pay attention to the background, edges, and what’s in focus. Use the rule of thirds to create balanced, engaging compositions.
  • Vary Your Angles: Don’t shoot everything from eye level. Experiment with high, low, and side angles to add visual interest.
  • Practice Regularly: Try recreating shots from your favorite films or practice with everyday objects at home. Review your footage and look for ways to improve framing and composition.
  • Avoid Common Mistakes:
    • Don’t rely solely on auto settings—learn manual controls for exposure, focus, and white balance.
    • Don’t neglect sound—bad audio can ruin a good shot.
    • Don’t overuse shallow depth-of-field or camera movement without purpose.
    • Always get enough coverage—shoot a variety of shot sizes for each scene.

Quick Reference Table

Shot TypeDescriptionTypical Use CaseBeginner Tip
Wide/Long ShotSubject in environmentEstablishing location, scaleKeep frame balanced, avoid clutter
Full ShotHead-to-toe framingBody language, movementSubject should be prominent
Medium ShotWaist upDialogue, character interactionWatch background, keep steady
Medium Close-UpChest/shoulders upFacial expressions, contextFocus on eyes, good lighting
Close-UpFace or detail fills frameEmotions, reactionsUse sparingly for impact
Extreme Close-UpIsolated detail (eyes, object)Intense emotion, critical detailHighlight story-relevant details
Over-the-ShoulderBehind another character’s shoulderConversations, perspectiveMaintain eyelines, 180-degree rule
Point-of-ViewFrom character’s perspectiveImmersion, subjective experienceKeep movement natural
High AngleCamera above subjectVulnerability, power dynamicsUse for emphasis, not overuse
Low AngleCamera below subjectPower, dominance, heroismWatch for background distractions

Final Advice for New Filmmakers

  • Start Simple: Focus on mastering the basics before experimenting with complex shots or movements.
  • Learn by Doing: The best way to improve is to shoot regularly, review your work, and seek feedback.
  • Tell a Story: Every shot should serve the story. Don’t use a shot just because it looks cool—make sure it has a purpose.
  • Be Patient: Filmmaking is a craft that takes time to develop. Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities and keep practicing.

By understanding and practicing these ten essential shots, and following these tips, you’ll build a strong foundation for visual storytelling and set yourself up for success as a filmmaker.

Continue Reading

Advice

How to Find Your Voice as a Filmmaker

Published

on

Every filmmaker aspires to create projects that are not only memorable but also uniquely their own. Finding your creative voice is a journey that requires self-reflection, bold choices, and an unwavering commitment to your vision. Here’s how to uncover your style, take risks, and craft original work that stands out.

1. Discovering Your Voice: Understanding Your Influences

Your unique voice begins with recognizing what inspires you.

  • Step 1: Reflect on the themes, genres, or emotions that consistently draw your interest. Are you inspired by human resilience, surreal worlds, or untold histories?
  • Step 2: Study the work of filmmakers you admire. Analyze what resonates with you—their use of color, pacing, or narrative techniques.

Tip: Combine what you love with your personal experiences to create a lens that only you can offer.

Example: Wes Anderson’s whimsical, symmetrical worlds stem from his love of classic storytelling and his unique visual style.

Wes Anderson

Takeaway: Start with what moves you, then add your personal touch.

2. Taking Creative Risks: Experiment and Evolve

To stand out, you must be willing to challenge conventions and explore new territory.

Example: Jordan Peele blended horror with social commentary in Get Out, creating a genre-defying film that captivated audiences.

L-R: Jordan Peele, Keegan-Michael Key

Takeaway: Risks are an opportunity for growth, even if they don’t always succeed.

3. Telling Original Stories: Start with Authenticity

Original projects resonate when they stem from a place of truth.

Advertisement
  • Draw from Experience: Incorporate elements of your own life, culture, or worldview into your stories.
  • Explore the “Why”: Ask yourself why this story matters to you and how it connects with your audience.
  • Avoid Trends: Focus on timeless narratives rather than chasing current fads.

Example: Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird was deeply personal, based on her experiences growing up in Sacramento. The film’s authenticity made it universally relatable.

Greta Gerwig

Takeaway: The more personal the story, the more it resonates.

4. Developing Your Style: Consistency Meets Creativity

Style is not just about visuals—it’s how you tell a story across all elements of filmmaking.

  • Visual Language: Experiment with colors, lighting, and framing to create a distinct aesthetic.
  • Narrative Voice: Develop consistent themes or motifs across your projects.
  • Sound Design: Use music, sound effects, and silence to evoke specific emotions.

Example: Quentin Tarantino’s use of dialogue, pop culture references, and bold music choices makes his work instantly recognizable.

Quentin Tarantino

Takeaway: Your style should be intentional, evolving as you grow but always recognizable as yours.

5. Staying True to Yourself: Building Confidence in Your Vision

The filmmaking process is full of challenges, but staying true to your voice is essential.

  • Stay Authentic: Trust your instincts, even if your ideas seem unconventional.
  • Adapt Without Compromise: Be open to feedback but maintain your core vision.
  • Celebrate Your Growth: View every project, successful or not, as a stepping stone in your creative journey.

Example: Ava DuVernay shifted from public relations to filmmaking, staying true to her voice in films like Selma and 13th, which focus on social justice.

L-R: Lupita Nyong’o, Ava DuVernay

Takeaway: Your voice evolves with every project, so embrace the process.

Conclusion: From Idea to Screen, Your Voice is Your Superpower

Finding your voice as a filmmaker takes time, courage, and commitment. By exploring your influences, taking risks, and staying true to your perspective, you’ll craft stories that not only stand out but also resonate deeply with your audience.

Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Trending