Evaluation 1- Script

Our opening to UFO uses, develops and challenges many forms and conventions of real media products, particularly through factors such as titles, sound and genre.

By opening with a title sequence, we automatically conform to a convention as the vast majority of films feature opening titles. However, the way in which we have presented our titles develops upon the generic form, as we have opted for a more creative style, similar to that of the 2004 comedy Napoleon Dynamite. Our titles were too placed on various objects around the room, and shown when the protagonist approached or interacted with the object, Through these factors, we really developed the convention of title sequences, which typically see names and roles typed and laid over a shot. As well as developing the titles, we also challenged the order in which they tend to appear, and the length of time for which they are shown for, in order to fit with the verisimilitude, and the idea that they are being shown whilst in use by the protagonist.

The use of music throughout an opening is a trait seen in  a large number of films and, although we followed this convention, our music was diegetic, rather than conforming to the typical use of non-diegetic sound. Whilst we developed the type of sound used, we challenged the conventions of diegetic sound towards the end of the opening- after our character takes off his headphones for the sound to lower, we allowed for it to gradually get louder as the action takes place, in order for the sense of rush and urgency to be presented to the audience. Another feature we considered was the absence of dialogue, a convention commonly explored in modern cinema. As only one character is met in our opening, we decided on excluding the use of any dialogue, conforming to the modern convention. However, we did develop this and used text messages, rather than conversation, as a way of communication to introduce a second character, and give more depth to the plot.

Our use of bright colours, highkey lighting and a clumsy character followed the typical forms and conventions associated with a comedy. Feedback from members of the audience at the showcase evening suggests that the music, mise-en-scene, editing, and actor were all effective in creating a product of the comedy genre, largely due to conforming to the relative conventions.