The Watchman a Michael Anthony Horrigan Film

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

The Watchman .................... Watch it HERE (http://www.dvxfest.com/timefest/direct_dl.php?id=1000110)

Pray he's not watching you.

A man who lives his life by a meticulously timed schedule snaps when it is disrupted.

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1204396917.jpg

A little bit about The Watchman.

I wrote the script soon after TimeFest was announced.
The story revolves around a man who lives his life by a meticulously timed schedule. Something interrupts his schedule causing him to slip into madness.

This was a one camera, one man crew shoot. Shot entirely on the little Canon HV20. No adapters, just the occasional wide angle lens.

The only money spent on this project was for Mini DV tapes and feeding the talent. No crew to worry about, just actors. I didn't even rent gear this time.
I borrowed a digital audio recorder from a buddy and lit the movie with natural light and lamps found around the house.
For some of the night scenes outside I used some flood lights that we have for a hockey rink in the winter.

Most of the outdoor scenes were murder. The Weather was terrible and we had to cancel many shoots. Too many to mention.

I edited it with CS3 Premiere Pro for the Mac. I have a new iMac with Leopard. CS3 crashed constantly. At first it was just occasionally, near the end it was every couple of minutes.

I'm going to try a complete re-install and see what happens. I spent hours on the phone with tech support during the last few days. Premiere Pro 1.5 worked flawlessly on my Windows Laptop.

I would make the change to Final Cut but can't afford it at the moment.

Needless to say, this was a challenge and it was made as cheap as you can imagine. I just want to thank the members here for their support.
Without them I probably wouldn't have been able to finish it.

Hope you enjoy it.

Cheers and good luck to all who entered!

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Cast Photos


Lead Actor: Ian Quick

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1210164463.jpg


Lead Actress: Jennifer Barnes

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1210164427.jpg

DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY, GAFFER: Mike Horrigan

SOUND DESIGN: Mike Horrigan

SCORE: Justin R. Durban

WRITTEN BY: Mike Horrigan

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Finished grabs.

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1213721707.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1213721596.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1213721630.jpg

Mike

[Matthew R. Rodwell]

A second entry? Good luck on both of them Michael. Poster is great.

[Simon Höfer]

Hey, nice wordplay on the poster, looks good!

Good luck!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks, guys!
I hope to complete both... but I'll only be entering one.
In the middle of working on both scripts.

Should be fun either way! :)

Cheers,

Mike

[Ted Arabian]

Hi Mike, like the title and that poster. Very cool.

Just read that you are only going to submit one of the two. Why not both (if you complete them)?

[DJ Lewis]

Wow, two entries. At this point, you're running a small business.

[MattinSTL]

Hey don't think I copied your idea when you see my thread for "The Watchmaker"... I announced it in the Indiana Jones thread days ago!

Larry... since you're a MOD... do you want to edit this thread or how should I handle this? Should we delete this thread entirely and just post a new one?

As of now our project is most likely to be titled The Watchmaker

:-)

I'm sure our entries will be nothing similar... just doing a little CYA for myself.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Hi Mike, like the title and that poster. Very cool.

Just read that you are only going to submit one of the two. Why not both (if you complete them)?
Well, not that I would ever win anything... but if they were both half decent they would just end up splitting my votes. I think it would be smarter to go with the stronger one. Whichever one that ends up being...

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Wow, two entries. At this point, you're running a small business.
:grin:

Well, I'll only be entering one.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Hey don't think I copied your idea when you see my thread for "The Watchmaker"... I announced it in the Indiana Jones thread days ago!



:-)

I'm sure our entries will be nothing similar... just doing a little CYA for myself.
No problem. Mine isn't about a Watchmaker so I' think we're cool! :D

[Tom Marshall]

Yeah, two entries... that's what I'm TALKIN about... :thumbsup:

Seriously, good like Mike. :beer:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Yeah, two entries... that's what I'm TALKIN about... :thumbsup:

Seriously, good like Mike. :beer:
Thanks, Tom.
I'll do my best...

Cheers,

Mike

[bosindy]

I am looking forward to your film(s). I like your ambition.

[Tomas Riuka]

how is that possible... i think i will barely be able to cope with one entry.. and you're talking two..

[Herman Witkam]

hehe -well... Am I scoring this one too?

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

hehe -well... Am I scoring this one too?
LOL! :grin:

I would be honoured if you did!
I think this will be the first movie that I'm going to work full steam on.
Devolution will follow.

You interested? :)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I am looking forward to your film(s). I like your ambition.Thanks! You know how I feel about your work.
Truly inspiring. :thumbup:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

how is that possible... i think i will barely be able to cope with one entry.. and you're talking two..
Well... I won't promise two but I'm sure going to try!

Once again, probably only one will be a Time Fest entry.

Thanks, guys!

Mike

[Herman Witkam]

LOL! :grin:

I would be honoured if you did!
I think this will be the first movie that I'm going to work full steam on.
Devolution will follow.

You interested? :)

Ok - You convinced me :)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Ok - You convinced me :)
Thanks! :thumbsup:

[Zim]

Good luck. I just watched Joel 3:15. I liked that one.

[Derrick_SA]

Well you could enter one to compete and one for viewing only?

- Derrick

[Ted Arabian]

Hey Mike! How are things going?

[Marlon Ladd]

Hey, Mike. What's up? Last time I talked to you, you were sick. Everything good? If you need any help on this one (a script read) or anything else, just holla'.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks, guys.
I have been off with pneumonia. Sucks to be me right now...
I'm starting to feel better though. It was rough there for a while.

I'll be back into the swing of things next week.

Take care and thanks for the interest.

Mike

[Ted Arabian]

Wow, Mike. Sorry to hear that. pneumonia!?!?! Not good.

Rest and relax....

We'll be here holding down the fort. (May even invite the Fat Monster Gang to party on your pad while you are away! :grin: )

-Ted

[Herman Witkam]

Thanks, guys.
I have been off with pneumonia. Sucks to be me right now...
I'm starting to feel better though. It was rough there for a while.

I'll be back into the swing of things next week.

Take care and thanks for the interest.

Mike

In Dutch: 'Beterschap!' (get well soon!)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks!

Feeling much better now, about 90%
Starting to get things back on track.

I'll post more this coming week.

Cheers,

Mike

[Ted Arabian]

Woo Hoo! Awesome to hear.

I love the feeling of those first 2 days after being sick. I feel like I have more energy than I have ever felt!

Looking forward to the updates. Any epiphanies while you were bed ridden with pneumonia?

Glad you are feeling better. We missed you. The place just isn't the same without you! :thumbsup:

-Ted

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks, Ted.

I just finished the script last night.

Looking forward to holding auditions soon, although I do have someone new in mind for the lead.

Locations are going to be tough though.
Thanks again for the interest and well wishes.

Mike

[Dustin R. Rogan]

I guess you're thread escaped me...As you know I'm a fan of your work sir...Defiantly watching it 4th (after mine, Jasonthewhos, Gary Frenchs) cuz I'll be working on those (not submitting all just one)

Good Luck
Dustin

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I guess you're thread escaped me...As you know I'm a fan of your work sir...Defiantly watching it 4th (after mine, Jasonthewhos, Gary Frenchs) cuz I'll be working on those (not submitting all just one)

Good Luck
DustinI really appreciate that!

I'm going to do a casting call very soon.
After that I should really get rolling.

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Second draft of the script is finished.
Working on the audition listing now.

Have the lead actor already cast.

Cheers,

Mike

[Robbie Comeau]

Woo!

I'm on second draft to!

I'm going to figure out how to hack in your computer so I can read this...

The poster looks amazing!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks, Robbie.

I don't want to ruin it for you so you'll have to hack in. :D

[Robbie Comeau]

Going to work now.

Just passing through the Data.SCRIPT files, and then I gotta pass the mainframe. ETA: All night...

[Marlon Ladd]

Hey, Mike. Got any updates? I've been MIA for a bit (training class), but I'm back now.

[tmnt]

We demand an update! How'd the casting go Mike?

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Hey, guys. Thanks for the interest.
I have posted the casting call but have yet to have the "actual" audition yet.
I do have the lead already cast though.

I really have to get moving on this. Auditions will be held at the end of the month. I'm really getting very little help on this one (as usual) so look for me to be doing just about everything. I really wish there was more local interest in film making.

BTW, if anyone here has a talent for storyboarding please let me know.

Cheers,

Mike

[John LaBonney]

Mike:

Too bad I'm not there, I'd love to be on the set to help out. Canada is too cold for me anyway, eh?

I always had difficulty storyboarding because my drawing stinks so bad, so I decided to do something about it. I went to the library and got How to Draw What You See by Rudy De Reyna, which was a highly recommended book on the subject. It's a very good book, and I would recommend it to anyone. After practicing with the exercises in the book, I can say that while I'm still a pretty lousy artist, my drawings have drastically improved and I now have a basic understanding of perspective and volume. What I've learned so far have brought me from stick figures to human shapes with visible body positions. The best part is that I can get my ideas across to those involved in the film without having to turn to someone else to draw for me, which means I save a lot of grief.

I didn't think I could draw at all, but after a couple of weeks with the book, I made a huge improvement. Good enough to do basic storyboards anyway.


_

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Hey, John.

I'm actually a bit of an artist. Here's a mural I painted freehand on my Nephew's wall many years back. Keep in mind that it's about 6 feet wide.

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1209081702.jpg


My problem is my imagination. I can copy just about anything I'm looking at, but to imagine it and then put it to pencil and paper... no dice.

I may look into that book though. :laugh:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

PS- Love the new avatar! :thumbup:

[John LaBonney]

Wow, that's pretty amazing work! If you can do that you can definitely storyboard. Get some action figures and put them in the positions that you want to give you something to draw from.

[John LaBonney]

I really wish there was more local interest in film making.

I just attended a get-together of a local actors meeting, and thought it was a very interesting experience: see here (http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=133381)

I'll bet you could start something like this in your area if you gave it a whirl. Couldn't hurt to try.

John

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Hey, John. Thanks!
I can always find actors... it's the crew that escapes me.
I can never find help in that area. At least... it is very difficult.

Mike

[John LaBonney]

Yeah, but I found that half the people at this get-together weren't actors. They were filmmakers and writers and cinematographers and make-up people that had in one way or another stumbled upon the group. Seriously, I think it might work. Make a posting on craigslist or something for a meet-up at a local bar and grill. If three people show up then you've made three new contacts. Do it monthly and it will grow as people talk to people. The group here is now big enough to command a discount on drinks at the bar during the meeting.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Just updated some of the cast photos on the first page.
HERE (http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showpost.php?p=1208389&postcount=2)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Hoping to do some test shots this weekend. May post some grabs from that. Shooting a bit this coming week if everything goes as planned..

Mike

[Ted Arabian]

Hey, John.

I'm actually a bit of an artist. Here's a mural I painted freehand on my Nephew's wall many years back. Keep in mind that it's about 6 feet wide.

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1209081702.jpg


My problem is my imagination. I can copy just about anything I'm looking at, but to imagine it and then put it to pencil and paper... no dice.

I may look into that book though. :laugh:

Wow, Mike... this is impressive! Is it airbrush work? Very nice.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Wow, Mike... this is impressive! Is it airbrush work? Very nice.
Thanks.

No, I just can't get the hang of airbrushing. I did this old style. :D
Paintbrush in hand, some acrylic paint and some dry brushing techniques here and there for shadows and such.

[Ted Arabian]

Well, you did a great job with it.

I've done a bit of airbrushing. It's a bit tricky but a really neat medium.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Well, I'm starting to shoot today so hopefully all goes well.

I'll post some grabs later.

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Some fairly raw grabs....

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1211496696.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1211496785.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1211496838.jpg

Posted some grabs.... more to come down the road.

[Ted Arabian]

Nice to see some grabs going up, Mike. How is the production progressing?

How about a small update of where you're at and how it is going!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Nice to see some grabs going up, Mike. How is the production progressing?

How about a small update of where you're at and how it is going!It's coming along. I took part of the week off to shoot it and the weather was miserable. It rained every day this week and we even had hail! A large portion of the movie takes place outside so it sucks to be me. I did manage to shoot about 25% of it though. I'm hoping to get half of it in the can so to speak by next week.

I'm a one man crew so it takes me a lot longer to set up a scene. I do have everything edited up to this point so that's a bonus. :)

Thanks for the interest.

Mike

[Jason Ramsey]

You have a quirky storytelling style that I think will fit well with the theme of this fest. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with this time around.

Later,
Jason

[Mark Harris]

Yeah, I'm looking forward to it too.

[Simon Höfer]

Grabs looking good! Hope you've got more luck with the weather next week.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

You have a quirky storytelling style that I think will fit well with the theme of this fest. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with this time around.

Later,
JasonQuirky!? :) I'll take that as a compliment. :thumbsup:
Thanks, Jason.


Yeah, I'm looking forward to it too.
Thanks, Mark. I appreciate that. Your movies are always really well written so I can't wait to see what you give us this fest.


Grabs looking good! Hope you've got more luck with the weather next week. Thanks! Glad you like them. Yah, I hope the weather straightens up for next week. *fingers crossed*


Thanks, guys!

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

UPDATE: Was supposed to shoot today but once again the weather killed me. Hope to get more shot later this week.

Cheers,

Mike

[Existentialist]

I like those interior shots. Did you just use natural lighting for the shot of your actor sitting on the bed and the watch close up?

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I like those interior shots. Did you just use natural lighting for the shot of your actor sitting on the bed and the watch close up?Actually yes, nice call. I'm using natural/available light for the entire movie. Even the outdoor evening scenes. It should prove challenging!

In this shot there was a lamp on behind him while he was sitting on the bed and of course the natural light coming in from outside.

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1211496785.jpg



Natural light and the same lamp in a different location helped with this watch shot.

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1211496696.jpg

Thanks for the interest!

Mike

[Existentialist]

I'm 100% with you on that one. I love natural lighting, any day of the week over fancy lights

[Ben Sliker]

UPDATE: Was supposed to shoot today but once again the weather killed me. Hope to get more shot later this week.

Cheers,

Mike

that sucks man, we totally lucked out on our shoot. the one day we had to shoot, it ended up being was perfect outside. hope it works out later in the week!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I'm 100% with you on that one. I love natural lighting, any day of the week over fancy lightsI used a lot of artificial lighting on my last two movies and learned a lot.

Just going back to the basics on this one for a different look. So far so good I guess. :)

I do like the look of it.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

that sucks man, we totally lucked out on our shoot. the one day we had to shoot, it ended up being was perfect outside. hope it works out later in the week!
Sure, rub it in! :laugh:

I'm regrouping for a shoot Thursday night.
Thanks for the well wishes.




Please don't rain please don't rain please don't rain

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Well, the weather looks great but one of the actors I need tonight emails me and says that he has pink eye! He won't be making it. :angry:

Looks like I'll just use the time to shoot a few shots that I need with the lead actor. I'm going to get this thing done if it kills me!

I fell like I'm the little yellow guy and this project is the green guy.
:nads:

[Existentialist]

I watched Joel 3:15 and the picture quality and coloring is tremendous! Could you pm me with some BTS secrets to that one? Thanks.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I watched Joel 3:15 and the picture quality and coloring is tremendous! Could you pm me with some BTS secrets to that one? Thanks.Glad you liked it!

Why don't you break down what scenes that you want me to go over. What caught your eye? I can tell you how I lit it... etc.

I literally did everything on that one so I can break it down for you.

I shot it with the little Canon HV20 in Cine mode 24P.
It seems to do very well in lowlight and the colours look pretty good.
I did some CC work in Premiere Pro by dropping the saturation quite a bit and crushing the blacks.

The scene outside when he walks out of the house was done with one directed light and two natural pot lights from overhead.

The main character has one pot light on above him as he exits the house. The other light is on the lawn and directed right at him on a slight angle, I wanted some shadow on the stone work. I placed it right by their 5' lamppost on the lawn in order to replicate that light source but increase the intensity. He was too dark without it.

The guy in the background is only lit by the existing pot light above him. Same for his closeup.

Any scenes that you want broken down just let me know.

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Well, got a little done tonight but not much due to one of the actors calling in sick.

Here's a grab...

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1212123837.jpg

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Here's some grading that I'm playing with from my previous grabs.

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1212124304.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1212124340.jpg

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Well, got a little done tonight but not much due to one of the actors calling in sick.

Here's a grab...

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1212123837.jpg

Question. How many of you can begin to see the steering wheel just above his hand? I can see it clearly on my Mac. Not as clear on my PC. I have since tweaked my settings on my display to bring it up on my Laptop.

Just curious if everyone else can see the bottom of the wheel. Let me know if you can see it and if your monitor is calibrated.
Also, what are you viewing it on, a PC or a Mac?

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help me out.

Cheers,

Mike

[Mark Harris]

Non-calibrated monitor on a PC right now, cannot see the steering wheel. Will check again later when at home where my monitor is calibrated.

[Ben Sliker]

23-inch apple cinema display ... brightness turned all the way up, can really only see it against the grey area above it.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

23-inch apple cinema display ... brightness turned all the way up, can really only see it against the grey area above it.
The gray area is his leg. I have my brightness up 2 notches from the middle and I can see it on my laptop. It's not super clear, but it's there.

I didn't have to adjust it on my Mac in order to see it at all.

Mark, please respond back once you look at it on your calibrated monitor. I'm very curious about this.

Thanks a million guys! Keep them coming....
I want to make sure everyone sees the movie as I see it.

Cheers,

Mike

[Mark Harris]

Why not just calibrate your monitor?

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Just so we're clear, you shouldn't be able to see the entire steering wheel. Just the part across his leg and a little bit more going towards the top of the frame. But I intend for people to see that much of it. It sort of fades into darkness but you should be able to make out some of it.

At least that's what I'm hoping for. :)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Why not just calibrate your monitor?I have some calibration discs for my HT.

Would that work for my Mac? I thought you had to have equipment that attached to your screen in order to calibrate it properly?

[Mark Harris]

Yeah, I have a huey that seems to do a pretty good job, and it's real cheap.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Yeah, I have a huey that seems to do a pretty good job, and it's real cheap.Aah... I have nothing like that. I'll have to look into it.

Until then, if you don't mind letting me know how it looks on your calibrated monitor that would be great. If you can't see it I'll darken up my display a bit and adjust accordingly until I get calibrated myself.

Thanks!

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

The Huey does look good and affordable! Thanks, Mark.

[Mark Harris]

Will let you know later tonight.

Jack turned me on to the huey and you should pick one up.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Will let you know later tonight.

Jack turned me on to the huey and you should pick one up.I'll do just that. Thanks.

Anyone else want to chime in on the screen grab question?

Thanks,

Mike

[Jason Ramsey]

Can see a small part of what is the steering wheel, but only b/c that's what you said it is... and can barely see it at that.


Side note: Yay for left handed people!

Later,
Jason

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Can see a small part of what is the steering wheel, but only b/c that's what you said it is... and can barely see it at that.


Side note: Yay for left handed people!

Later,
JasonThat's cool. It should barely be visible, and just a part of it at that. I couldn't see it at all on my Laptop initially, just darkness. That's why I asked.
I'll assume that your display is calibrated. :)

Thanks a lot, Jason!

LOL @ the left handed comment. I was bugging him about it actually. I always had to shoot it at a different angle than what was intended. :laugh:

[Jason Ramsey]

I'll assume that your display is calibrated

Err... uhm... yah... of course.... I mean... no, it's not :)

Later,
Jason

[Mark Harris]

Yeah, on my pretty well calibrated HDTV monitor, I can see the steering wheel and the gray pant leg. But honestly I cannot tell what they are. I would not have known that was a steering wheel unless you told me.

Another way you can check some of this stuff for consistency is to use waveform and vecorscopes. I know Joe uses those in CC. But you can certainly use them to check IRE levels and the like.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Yeah, on my pretty well calibrated HDTV monitor, I can see the steering wheel and the gray pant leg. But honestly I cannot tell what they are. I would not have known that was a steering wheel unless you told me.

Another way you can check some of this stuff for consistency is to use waveform and vecorscopes. I know Joe uses those in CC. But you can certainly use them to check IRE levels and the like.
That's cool, Mark. I just didn't want it entirely enveloped in the darkness. I wanted some minor detail in the shot, nothing more.

Looks like my Mac is properly calibrated for the most part. My Laptop was not even close. It is now.

Thanks again!
Thanks for the tip as well.

Cheers,

Mike

[totitefilms]

hey Michael, it looks like I found another HV20 user ;-). Just wondering why you have to put the letterbox on your grabs. Are you going to keep it like that for the final rendering?

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

hey Michael, it looks like I found another HV20 user ;-). Just wondering why you have to put the letterbox on your grabs. Are you going to keep it like that for the final rendering?
The black bars will be cropped out but the wider aspect ratio will remain.
Closer to 2:35:1

:thumbup:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Spent about an hour or so shooting some small scenes today. Shooting for an hour or two tonight as well. I'll post some grabs later if I have the time.

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Guess what... it's raining here AGAIN!!!

Son of a bitch!! :-Mad(DBG):

Mike

[Mark Harris]

Ha! What good is your cheap and ready access to health care now? Ha!

I mean, sorry man. Bummer.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Ha! What good is your cheap and ready access to health care now? Ha!

I mean, sorry man. Bummer.Alright, that actually made me laugh.

It seems to be clearing a bit... I got a great shot of a rainbow. :laugh:
We'll see what the horizon looks like. Up in the air now at the moment.






Like most horizons....

[Mark Harris]

Good, that was the point. :) Now get re-writing your script to take place like in the 40s when it was always raining.

[Jason Ramsey]

Somebody's having a birthday today... Happy Birthday, man.

Later,
Jason

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Somebody's having a birthday today... Happy Birthday, man.

Later,
JasonThanks, man!

Had to cancel the shoot tonight. F 'ing rain!
I'm off to have some more cake and get liquored up! :beer:


Rescheduled to shoot Thursday.
Thanks again for the well wishes.

Mike

[Tom Marshall]

Mike, that's a bummer about the rain man... sorry to hear that...

You could always move to Los Angeles... it rarely rains here...

[Simon Höfer]

Happy Birthday dude!


You could always move to Los Angeles... it rarely rains here...
Haha, what a great advice :D

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks, Simon.

Tom, I wish I could pack up and go at times. :)

Here's a new grab!

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1212540098.jpg

[jasonthewho]

All of these grabs are so cryptic!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

All of these grabs are so cryptic!

In what way? :happy:

[Jason Ramsey]

Boy, he looks like he's about to really give that trashcan hell with those clinched fists :)

Later,
Jason

[Tom Marshall]

Oh, happy birthday, Mike! :beer:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Boy, he looks like he's about to really give that trashcan hell with those clinched fists :)

Later,
Jason
You have no idea! :grin:





Or maybe you do... :happy:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Oh, happy birthday, Mike! :beer:
Thanks, man! :beer:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Tried shooting today but got killed by the weather AGAIN!!
Way too windy... like, blowing stuff over windy! Sucks to be me right now.
I just need normal JUNE weather! Sigh....

With a full time job, young daughter, single man crew, etc... this is not easy and it's starting to wear on me.
I've had to cancel and reschedule a bunch of times now.

I may have to drop out. We'll see.
Things are not looking good.

Regardless, I'm still shooting the ending tonight..... indoors!

Mike

[Herman Witkam]

Sorry to hear that Mike - Good luck with the weather! I hope you can finish shooting soon.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Sorry to hear that Mike - Good luck with the weather! I hope you can finish shooting soon.
I'm working on it. Plan on trying again tomorrow during the day.

So... how much time do you need exactly? Especially if it's the score and maybe 10% of the sound design.

I'm editing as I'm shooting and trying to clean stuff up to save time.

Mike

[conlanforever]

Hey Mike Happy belated birthday.

I know from reading your script in the fest you're a creative guy and I like your other work that I've watched, I was really looking forward to seeing this.

I hope you don't have to drop out after putting in all the work. Good luck with the weather and getting it finished.

Nice poster too btw.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Hey Mike Happy belated birthday.

I know from reading your script in the fest you're a creative guy and I like your other work that I've watched, I was really looking forward to seeing this.

I hope you don't have to drop out after putting in all the work. Good luck with the weather and getting it finished.

Nice poster too btw.Thanks, man.
I'll work my butt off in order to make this happen. It has just been very tough this go around.

Thanks for the kind words.

Mike

[Herman Witkam]

Birthday? Happy belated Birthday Mike!

How much time I need depends on what the film needs. Let's talk about that some more soon.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks, Herman!

I'm shooting an important scene tonight.
The scene should last close to a minute in the movie and the camera will be locked down the entire time. Lighting it properly will be key.

Wish me luck! I'm not using a light kit... :D

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Let's see if there is any interest in this thread!

First one to post here gets a look at a crucial scene in the movie. You must agree NOT to pass the clip around though!

I need a post and a promise.

EDIT: I have to run. When I come back I'll PM the first person the clip... if there is a response. :)

Cheers,

Mike

[Mark Harris]

If this is a Rick Roll, you are a dead man.

[Simon Höfer]

Ah, too late. Mark was faster...

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

PM sent to Mark....

Thanks guys!

Sorry, Simon. Thanks for the interest.

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Guess what!

Supposed to film tonight...
Well, you guessed it. Rain and thunderstorms! :angry:

Son of a BEEOTCH!!

Will I get this thing finished?
Will Herman have time to do the score?
Will I enter a half-ass silent movie?

Only time will tell.
No pun intended.

Mike

[John LaBonney]

Thought you were all finished with shooting?

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thought you were all finished with shooting?Do you actually read my emails? :tongue:

I shot a crucial scene but I'm far from done. It just happens to be the ending.
Had a lot of shoots canceled due to weather. Sucks to be me. I have about 60% in the can. Maybe...
Ring any bells? :huh:

I just sent this to you last night and you responded to it. :grin:

LOL!

[John LaBonney]

Opps.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Opps.LOL! It was late... I'll give you that.
Although I don't think it was that late for you. :D

Wish me luck!

I'll need it.

[Mattykins]

Oh no Mike....

Same thing here. I've been totally screwed by the weather myself. I was going to push the production up to today and tomorrow, because the weekend weather doesn't look great. But I got screwed today...

Same boat my man, same boat.

[Mark Harris]

Mike and Mattykins, your shorts are ones I am really looking forward to, so buck up and get them done!

Mike I will get with you tomorrow.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks, Mark. Coming from you that means a lot.
Looking forward to talking to you.

Mike

[Beat Takeshi]

Can't wait to see you joint also so get out there in the rain and shoooooooooot. :)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Can't wait to see you joint also so get out there in the rain and shoooooooooot. :)
Thanks! Problem is that I have to match up these night scenes with footage already shot. The first night was dry. :)

I'll get it done. It just may not have music unless I can get it to Herman in time.

Working on it!

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Setting up to do a little ADR today, indoors! :)

We were scheduled to shoot outside Sunday night but they are calling for Thunderstorms (http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/wxdetail/CAXX0343?dayNum=1&from=36hr_topnav_business) all day and night. We may have to wait for a break and just go for it.

Tying up the actors all night with a hope in shooting isn't always easy. Especially when they aren't getting paid. :D

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Well, my lead actor had to cancel at the last minute earlier this evening. Rescheduled for tomorrow night. I'll be shooting rain or shine. Got to get this baby done!

Cheers,

Mike

[Mark Harris]

Sucks dude. That's why I keep my actors in cages.

But tomorrow night, nail it.

[artofsuntzu]

Well, my lead actor had to cancel at the last minute earlier this evening. Rescheduled for tomorrow night. I'll be shooting rain or shine. Got to get this baby done!

Cheers,

Mike

I'm hoping for the best for ya. Even if you have to composite in bluescreen puppets to finish any missing shots/actors/weather, I'm still looking forward to your entry.

Good luck.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Sucks dude. That's why I keep my actors in cages.

But tomorrow night, nail it.I'll remember that for my next project. :thumbup:
I'll do my best.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I'm hoping for the best for ya. Even if you have to composite in bluescreen puppets to finish any missing shots/actors/weather, I'm still looking forward to your entry.

Good luck.
I'll see what I can do.


:thumbsup:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

No rain tonight!! Shot what I think is some really great footage tonight!
One more night and it should be in the can.

Looking over some of the footage now and I'm very happy with what I see.
This thing may get finished after all. :)

[Mark Harris]

Noice!!!!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks.

Here's a grab from last night...

http://www.morecowbellpictures.com/downloads/hammer.jpg

[tmnt]

Very clean image from the little camera than can.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Very clean image from the little camera than can.
Thanks! No additional adapters used this entire shoot (as usual). Just the occasional wide angle lens.

That and household lighting. This little camera holds up extremely well considering.

Cheers,

Mike

[Existentialist]

I"m excited to watch this movie. When are you going to put it up?

[Herman Witkam]

No rain tonight!! Shot what I think is some really great footage tonight!
One more night and it should be in the can.

Looking over some of the footage now and I'm very happy with what I see.
This thing may get finished after all. :)

woohooo :D

Now let's hope there'll be some time left for scoring :)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

woohooo :D

Now let's hope there'll be some time left for scoring :)It's going to be close! I'm going to work all night tonight and see where I'm at.
I'll understand if you don't have enough time....

Cheers,

Mike

[Mark Johnson]

I'm certain that whatever Herman puts together will completely rock. The guy is supernatural in his ability to score in a short amount of time.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

It's not looking good at all.

It seems like CS3 has decided to start crashing on me every 3 minutes. Especially while rendering any changes to my footage. I'm running over 7 minutes on the cut and these problems are not allowing me to edit in a timely manner.

It looks like a reinstall of Premiere Pro is in order.

Chances are that this won't be finished in time.

Mike

[Dustin R. Rogan]

oh man wish you the best.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

oh man wish you the best.Thanks.
I'm on the phone with tech services now.
:zombie_smiley:

[Mark Harris]

Come on now. I don't have the money to fly around kicking Sconce's butt and your butt too...

[Matt Sconce]

It's not looking good at all.

It seems like CS3 has decided to start crashing on me every 3 minutes. Especially while rendering any changes to my footage. I'm running over 7 minutes on the cut and these problems are not allowing me to edit in a timely manner.

It looks like a reinstall of Premiere Pro is in order.

Chances are that this won't be finished in time.

Mike

Mine is doing similar things. It will not synch the audio, I have had to move to another system. Can you call up a friend with a kickin system and use that?

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I made some changes and the project is now rendering. I'll see if it's stable when it finishes. After that it will be a manner of editing it down and seeing if I can locate a few lines of audio that seem to have vanished.

If I do get this done it will probably be without Herman's score. I really can't see myself finishing this until Sunday or so. I don't think he'll have enough time to score it.

We'll see where I'm at by tomorrow morning.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Well, it rendered. Now to see if I can find the lost pieces of audio.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Well, I think I'm out.
My lead actor couldn't show up today to do a much needed voice over for the end of the movie. That and Father's Day really ate up any extra time I had.

It just wasn't destined to happen. I should be finished in a couple of days though. I'll enter it as a non compete and look forward to the feedback.

Mike

[Tom Marshall]

Mike, sorry to hear that. I'd say definitely still enter. Hope you had a good Father's day though. :beer:

[Mark Harris]

Duuuuuude!!!!!!! Do the VO yourself!!!!! Get your dad to do it. Anything!!!!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Duuuuuude!!!!!!! Do the VO yourself!!!!! Get your dad to do it. Anything!!!!I would but I need his voice. You'll understand when you hear it. That and the system constantly crashing has really put me behind the eight ball on this one. I guarantee that it will be finished in a few days, just not before the deadline tomorrow morning.

Such is life. I'm really just grateful that this Fest helped me produce what I feel might be my best work yet.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Mike, sorry to hear that. I'd say definitely still enter. Hope you had a good Father's day though. :beer:Thanks.
It was a Great day!:thumbsup:

[Tom Marshall]

Well, if there's anything I can do to help you get this thing done in time, just let me know... :)

[Drew Ott]

If you're really just a VO away from a complete film, I really think you should try to hit the deadline. I'm looking forward to seeing it.

[Herman Witkam]

If you're really just a VO away from a complete film, I really think you should try to hit the deadline. I'm looking forward to seeing it.

There's also no score yet. And no sound design (?)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

There's also no score yet. And no sound design (?)You're right about the score, most of the sound design is done. Although I'm sure you can do a much better job of it.

My lead is dropping by in the morning and I'm editing like crazy tonight.
This "may" get finished in time.

No promises though.

Either way, there will be a much longer Director's Cut to follow. Along with Herman's score of course! :)

[Gohanto]

Good luck man. Sorry to hear about all the last minute problems. Hopefully you'll be finished in time, but I definitely want to see this either way.

[artofsuntzu]

This ABSOLUTELY WILL (paraphrased by artofsuntzu... not a direct quote of MAH :) ) get finished in time.



Whew. For a moment I thought that the Americans were finally going to have something to mock Canadians about.

The West Coast is rooting for ya.

[Mark Harris]

You're right about the score, most of the sound design is done. Although I'm sure you can do a much better job of it.

My lead is dropping by in the morning and I'm editing like crazy tonight.
This "may" get finished in time.

I PROMISE!!!

Either way, there will be a much longer Director's Cut to follow. Along with Herman's score of course! :)

And this one...

[Mattykins]

Come on mate!

If it makes you feel any better I am still working on the east coast. Mark is still working on the west. I guess it's only right to have someone up north working too.

Good luck Mike! Have a coffee for me and I'll have one for you.

[artofsuntzu]

I PROMISE!!!

lol :)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Rendering now...

This is going to be close!

[Mark Harris]

Hurray!!!!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Let's hope. :)

It's almost finished.

Then a quick compression and pray that I come in under the size limit.
Any quick compression tips?

I'll check out the compression thread as well and give that a shot.

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Running my first compression now... Premiere Pro CS3 crashed right after the export!

Damn this is nerve racking. :shocked:

[Matt Sconce]

I am cheering for you! Go Go!

[Mark Harris]

Yeah, go man, go!

[Horncastle]

Keep calm, you'll make it. You still have a little time to go. This is a film I want to see.

Jason

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks for all the awesome support and PM's!
Came in at 46 MB.

Uploading now!

Cheers!!

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I just want to apologize to Herman for not giving him any time to score this entry. There will be a Director's Cut following shortly with a pretty good scene that had to hit the floor due to the time limit. It will also have Herman's original score and some extra sound design goodness.

On the flip side, thanks to Justin (Edgen) for allowing me to borrow some of his existing music that seemed to fit very well in a crunch.

Great site with even better people.

Cheers,

Mike

[tmnt]

Congrats on getting it in!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Congrats on getting it in!
Thanks, man. It was a very close call.
I made it though! :)

[Matt Sconce]

Thanks, man. It was a very close call.
I made it though! :)


I bet that felt awesome when it finished uploading!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I bet that felt awesome when it finished uploading!You bet! Killer banner BTW.
Very cool.

Thanks again for all your help.

Cheers,

Mike

[Mattykins]

Very glad you made it Mike. Can't wait to see it.

[Tom Marshall]

Thanks for all the awesome support and PM's!
Came in at 46 MB.

Uploading now!

Cheers!!

Mike

That's great news, Mike. Good job getting it done.

[jasonthewho]

Sweet!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks, guys!

As some of you know doing everything yourself can be quite the challenge. In the end it just makes it all the more worthwhile.

Thanks a bunch!

PS- Testing out the new banner.

Mike

[Matt Sconce]

Thanks, guys!

As some of you know doing everything yourself can be quite the challenge. In the end it just makes it all the more worthwhile.

Thanks a bunch!

PS- Testing out the new banner.

Mike


LOVE the new banner!

[jasonthewho]

New banner is wicked cool!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks for the banner comments! I may try another one later just for kicks. :)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Finished grabs!



http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1213721707.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1213721596.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/23237/1213721630.jpg

Mike

"The Watchman - Michael Anthony Horrigan - Uploaded, Upload Verified, Approved"

Woot! :)

[Mark Harris]

I knew you could do it...

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I knew you could do it...I have to say... I didn't. Next time I'm going to set a personal deadline about a week before upload time. That way when problems arise I won't be left scrambling.

Thanks again for your support! It helped.

Mike

[kurtmo]

As some of you know doing everything yourself can be quite the challenge. In the end it just makes it all the more worthwhile.


Sometimes I wish the experience didn't have to be so worthwhile...I do like to sleep every now and then.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Sometimes I wish the experience didn't have to be so worthwhile...I do like to sleep every now and then.I know what you mean. :)

I'm definitely going to try recruiting a crew next time.

[Dustin R. Rogan]

love the new banner Mike, as you know I'm a big fan of your work! Can't wait to see this fest entry you've put together!

Rogan

[jasonthewho]

I'm amazed you can do it all yourself. I have to have at least a person or two, if just to hold the boom pole!

Excited that I'm going to get to see this one soon!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I'm amazed you can do it all yourself. I have to have at least a person or two, if just to hold the boom pole!

Excited that I'm going to get to see this one soon!The funny thing is for my first short I had a pretty good crew. Even though they were just friends helping out. Every short since then the list gets smaller and smaller. This short.... zero! Absolutely nobody was available.

I should have shot some footage with the ladder that had the broom pole duct taped to it. It acted as a boom for the mic.

One of my favourites was taking a closeup shot of a wristwatch on my own hand while trying to set the timer. This required two free hands so I used a mic adapter that slides on top of the camera. I held on to the camera by biting the rear extension of the Mic! Lucky for me it's a small camera. Getting the focus right was a serious pain in the ass!!

Well, you do what you have to.

Cheers!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

A little bit about The Watchman.

I wrote the script soon after TimeFest was announced.
The story revolves around a man who lives his life by a meticulously timed schedule. Something interrupts his schedule causing him to slip into madness.

This was a one camera, one man crew shoot. Shot entirely on the little Canon HV20. No adapters, just the occasional wide angle lens.

The only money spent on this project was for Mini DV tapes and feeding the talent. No crew to worry about, just actors. I didn't even rent gear this time.
I borrowed a digital audio recorder from a buddy and lit the movie with natural light and lamps found around the house.
For some of the night scenes outside I used some flood lights that we have for a hockey rink in the winter.

Most of the outdoor scenes were murder. The Weather was terrible and we had to cancel many shoots. Too many to mention.

I edited it with CS3 Premiere Pro for the Mac. I have a new iMac with Leopard. CS3 crashed constantly. At first it was just occasionally, near the end it was every couple of minutes.

I'm going to try a complete re-install and see what happens. I spent hours on the phone with tech support during the last few days. Premiere Pro 1.5 worked flawlessly on my Windows Laptop.

I would make the change to Final Cut but can't afford it at the moment.

Needless to say, this was a challenge and it was made as cheap as you can imagine. I just want to thank the members here for their support.
Without them I probably wouldn't have been able to finish it.

Hope you enjoy it.

Cheers and good luck to all who entered!

Mike

[Marlon Ladd]

Congrats, Mike. I'm glad you got it finished and you know yours will be one of the first ones I watch. I understand completely what you were saying about your crew getting smaller and smaller. By continuing to do it on your own shows that indie filmmaker determination and spirit that alot of people don't have. I've gotten to the point where I don't even like to ask people for help if there's any way that I can do it on my own.

If you weren't so far away we could definately team up for some stuff - 1 day, man. Good luck and my review will be coming soon!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Congrats, Mike. I'm glad you got it finished and you know yours will be one of the first ones I watch. I understand completely what you were saying about your crew getting smaller and smaller. By continuing to do it on your own shows that indie filmmaker determination and spirit that alot of people don't have. I've gotten to the point where I don't even like to ask people for help if there's any way that I can do it on my own.

If you weren't so far away we could definately team up for some stuff - 1 day, man. Good luck and my review will be coming soon!I was hoping to see something fresh from you this Fest. Maybe the next one. You shook the foundation last Fest with a very cool entry! :thumbup:

Thanks for the encouragement and I look forward to your review.






unless it's bad... :evil:

[Tom Marshall]

I'm going to be brutally honest with all my reviews this time around. My goal is to get people to cry... :thumbsup:

[totitefilms]

A little bit about The Watchman.

I wrote the script soon after TimeFest was announced.
The story revolves around a man who lives his life by a meticulously timed schedule. Something interrupts his schedule causing him to slip into madness.

This was a one camera, one man crew shoot. Shot entirely on the little Canon HV20. No adapters, just the occasional wide angle lens.

The only money spent on this project was for Mini DV tapes and feeding the talent. No crew to worry about, just actors. I didn't even rent gear this time.
I borrowed a digital audio recorder from a buddy and lit the movie with natural light and lamps found around the house.
For some of the night scenes outside I used some flood lights that we have for a hockey rink in the winter.

Most of the outdoor scenes were murder. The Weather was terrible and we had to cancel many shoots. Too many to mention.

I edited it with CS3 Premiere Pro for the Mac. I have a new iMac with Leopard. CS3 crashed constantly. At first it was just occasionally, near the end it was every couple of minutes.

I'm going to try a complete re-install and see what happens. I spent hours on the phone with tech support during the last few days. Premiere Pro 1.5 worked flawlessly on my Windows Laptop.

I would make the change to Final Cut but can't afford it at the moment.

Needless to say, this was a challenge and it was made as cheap as you can imagine. I just want to thank the members here for their support.
Without them I probably wouldn't have been able to finish it.

Hope you enjoy it.

Cheers and good luck to all who entered!

Mike

Wow, you definitely tried to stay on budget this time :happy: Most of my money was spent on actor/actress. I filmed in daytime so no light was used. I used AE CS3 also and fortunately it didn't crash that often on my PC. AE CS3 is way faster than AE 7.0, which I used for LoveFest. Your story sounds interesting. I hope to comapre the footage between my HV20 and yours soon :shocked:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Wow, you definitely tried to stay on budget this time :happy: Most of my money was spent on actor/actress. I filmed in daytime so no light was used. I used AE CS3 also and fortunately it didn't crash that often on my PC. AE CS3 is way faster than AE 7.0, which I used for LoveFest. Your story sounds interesting. I hope to comapre the footage between my HV20 and yours soon :shocked:I stayed on a zero budget policy the last few times as well. Minus tapes and food. :)

Another HV20 user... seems to be a lot in this Fest!

Good luck!

Mike

[Edgen]

I'm going to be brutally honest with all my reviews this time around. My goal is to get people to cry... :thumbsup:

ha!! Tommy... you are living my dream.

(Back in college, we called someone like you the "designated a**hole".) AWESOME! can't wait to read your reviews and see how many people you can piss off and at the same time, form your epic legions of a brutally honest fanbase.

(oh, my film was shot with the HV20 as well)

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

ha!! Tommy... you are living my dream.

(Back in college, we called someone like you the "designated a**hole".) AWESOME! can't wait to read your reviews and see how many people you can piss off and at the same time, form your epic legions of a brutally honest fanbase.

(oh, my film was shot with the HV20 as well)Ummm.... yah. Review Justin's! He likes brutal reviews. :shocked:


:D

[Existentialist]

Aw, man, that was frikin' good! Monk meets Max Cady in a Time Fest sort of way.

But really, I liked your main actor's performance a lot.

Great shots, specially the hallway scene where he appears behind her.

I was really looking forward to watching your movie.

The concept of this guy stuck with every second of his life is fascinating, I wish that had been developed more but I realize that that's not where you were going. Nice ending too.

Great job, Michael!

[Gohanto]

I'm sure there's an OCD help group that isn't too happy somewhere out there, but I did love this short. The main actor's performance was very interesting to watch and you captured it very well. I really liked the shot of his hand shaking in the foreground with the woman in the background. Excellent characterization shot.

The editing of the ending was also very interesting to watch as well.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Aw, man, that was frikin' good! Monk meets Max Cady in a Time Fest sort of way.

But really, I liked your main actor's performance a lot.

Great shots, specially the hallway scene.

I was really looking forward to watching your movie.

The concept of this guy stuck with every second of his life is fascinating, I wish that had been developed more but I realize that that's not where you were going. Nice ending too.

Great job, Michael!Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. I do have a longer cut coming. :thumbsup:

Cheers!

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I'm sure there's an OCD help group that isn't too happy somewhere out there, but I did love this short. The main actor's performance was very interesting to watch and you captured it very well. I really liked the shot of his hand shaking in the foreground with the woman in the background. Excellent characterization shot.

The editing of the ending was also very interesting to watch as well. :grin: Probably.

Thanks for watching and I'm quite happy that you enjoyed it. And yah, I like that shot as well. :)

Cheers,

Mike

[ZFarms Productions]

great performance by the lead actor. the reveal in the hallway was bad ass. i actually said that out loud when i was watching it. great job on that.

camera work was really well done. nice locations, nice lighting, nice story, nice directing, cinematography. overall really nice.

can't wait to see the extended cut!

[hazelwould]

Great film. That girl is a good actress!

[bosindy]

Great work Mike. Looks like you took a leap forward with this film. I loved the static camera shot before the murder. great stuff. I like the way you incorporated time in this one as well. You got nice performances from your actors as well. You might have been able to build the tension a tad better with a few closer shots on your actress, but all and all I really dug it.

Congrats,
Jim

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

great performance by the lead actor. the reveal in the hallway was bad ass. i actually said that out loud when i was watching it. great job on that.

camera work was really well done. nice locations, nice lighting, nice story, nice directing, cinematography. overall really nice.

can't wait to see the extended cut!Bad ass, eh? I may quote you on that one! :laugh:

Thanks so much. BTW, the lighting was done with household lights for the interior shots.

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Great film. That girl is a good actress!Thanks! I'll pass that along. :thumbsup:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Great work Mike. Looks like you took a leap forward with this film. I loved the static camera shot before the murder. great stuff. I like the way you incorporated time in this one as well. You got nice performances from your actors as well. You might have been able to build the tension a tad better with a few closer shots on your actress, but all and all I really dug it.

Congrats,
Jim

Jim, I'm blown away by your comments. I really respect your work.
I'm glad that you liked my use of the theme. I wanted it to be a real part of the movie and not feel like it was just tacked on.

Glad you liked the hallway scene as well. I could have gone with a few closeups but I didn't want to cheat the long shot. As a personal choice I didn't want any edits during that scene at all.

Thanks so much for taking the time to watch my little movie.

Cheers!

Mike

[Marlon Ladd]

I was hoping to see something fresh from you this Fest. Maybe the next one. You shook the foundation last Fest with a very cool entry! :thumbup:

Thanks for the encouragement and I look forward to your review.






unless it's bad... :evil:

Thanks, Mike. I've only watched 2 films so far and I'm almost glad I didn't enter, because I'm sure there's going to be plenty of good ones!

You already know I'm a fan of your work and always like your stuff, but I have to say that I was impressed with this one simply because I could really see some growth (not that you needed any). But, that's the ultimate goal here is to get better and better each time and you definately are better, even with a crew of 1. I liked the story - it was suspenseful from the start and pulled me in. The written down times was an added touch and I thought the acting was excellent. You, of course had your signature dolly shots thrown in, but as usual they fit very well for what you were trying to do.

The shot were the guy appears when the girl was looking around was flawless! Loved the hammer shot too!

There was just really good build-up to the climax and the main character's twitch continued throughout was an ever so subtle, but very necessary nice touch. And I see that Justin did the music? Man, it was perfect. I'm gonna' have to look him up.

What could you have done different or better? I don't know. LOL. There was 1 thing that I saw that was just an editing thing. When the guy is on the side of the house, before the BF walks out, in the bottom portion of the screen we see something move, but can't tell it's a dog until I think 2 cuts later.

So, excellent work and glad you got it finished! Keep 'em comin'!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Thanks, Mike. I've only watched 2 films so far and I'm almost glad I didn't enter, because I'm sure there's going to be plenty of good ones!

You already know I'm a fan of your work and always like your stuff, but I have to say that I was impressed with this one simply because I could really see some growth (not that you needed any). But, that's the ultimate goal here is to get better and better each time and you definately are better, even with a crew of 1. I liked the story - it was suspenseful from the start and pulled me in. The written down times was an added touch and I thought the acting was excellent. You, of course had your signature dolly shots thrown in, but as usual they fit very well for what you were trying to do.

The shot were the guy appears when the girl was looking around was flawless! Loved the hammer shot too!

There was just really good build-up to the climax and the main character's twitch continued throughout was an ever so subtle, but very necessary nice touch. And I see that Justin did the music? Man, it was perfect. I'm gonna' have to look him up.

What could you have done different or better? I don't know. LOL. There was 1 thing that I saw that was just an editing thing. When the guy is on the side of the house, before the BF walks out, in the bottom portion of the screen we see something move, but can't tell it's a dog until I think 2 cuts later.

So, excellent work and glad you got it finished! Keep 'em comin'!Seems like I'm getting some comments on growth, glad to hear it. That means a lot.
Especially as you commented on, I did this one entirely by myself. It was rough at times but I took my time when I could. Still, it wasn't easy.

Glad you liked the build up and the big moments. :)

I borrowed some of Justin's previous music and tried to place it as best as I could. I even re-edited some scenes to make it fit to certain music cues. His music does sell some of these scenes extremely well!

About the dog, yah... that scene was a tad longer but I figured he should move back as soon as the dog comes out. I'll take another look at it.

Thanks again so much! Means a lot. :beer:

Mike

[Marlon Ladd]

Cool, man. I'll hitchu up later on the PM after I watch some more of these.

[Troy Ruff]

Dang michael, so good I really like your camera angles and your score by justin was awesome. Super concept and great color correction. I really enjoyed this film and wanted to see more. :)

[Alex Jeffery]

Wow dude. I loved it!

Very solid performances, and really interesting camera work. I loved the hand twitch. The guys voice reminded me so much of Office Space, lol. But really, amazing work dude. Can't wait to see more!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Cool, man. I'll hitchu up later on the PM after I watch some more of these.Sounds good! Talk to you soon. :thumbup:


Dang michael, so good I really like your camera angles and your score by justin was awesome. Super concept and great color correction. I really enjoyed this film and wanted to see more. :)
:dankk2:

I appreciate the comments. I'm sure Justin does as well.

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Wow dude. I loved it!

Very solid performances, and really interesting camera work. I loved the hand twitch. The guys voice reminded me so much of Office Space, lol. But really, amazing work dude. Can't wait to see more!

Thanks! I talked to Ian about coming up with some quirks for the character. We decided that the tapping was another way for him to keep track of time. It seemed manic but I was going to shoot additional scenes to display how accurate he was with it. I still may.

:beer:

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Well, it's >1:00am here so I'm off to bed. I'll be adding many more reviews myself tomorrow evening. Thanks for the comments, all appreciated!

Cheers,

Mike

[LloydC]

Michael, this was amazing! I think your lead actor was so naturally creepy... amazing performance. If there was an acting award, he'd definitely get my vote!

Overall, great work. Really enjoyed it

[hawaiiirish]

I'm new to the board and I watched your movie. I have to say, I'm impressed it was shot with HV-20. Additionally, I loved the ending - you built so much tension into that short amount of time. Great job.

[totitefilms]

I like your film. Nice CC and editing. The DOF in some scenes is very good. Do you use any adapter?. The ending is a little bit confusing for me. I had to watch it over a few times. Overall you did great job! I enjoy your movie.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Michael, this was amazing! I think your lead actor was so naturally creepy... amazing performance. If there was an acting award, he'd definitely get my vote!

Overall, great work. Really enjoyed itAwesome! I'll let him know.
Glad you really like it.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I'm new to the board and I watched your movie. I have to say, I'm impressed it was shot with HV-20. Additionally, I loved the ending - you built so much tension into that short amount of time. Great job.I tried. :)

Yup, the HV20 is one great little camera. Considering what I'm up against it held up fairly well. I would love to get a pro camera someday though.

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I like your film. Nice CC and editing. The DOF in some scenes is very good. Do you use any adapter?. .

Zero adapters. Just the wide angle lens for the occasional shot.
Glad most of you seem to like the CC as well.

:thumbsup:

[dopeyname101]

Gnarly.

Absolutely captivating short.

SPOILERS JUST IN CASE

So much tension in the bathroom/hallway scene. I hadn't been that antsy watching a movie since the first time I saw The Departed. Loved the reveal/disappear.

And the ending - I didn't see that coming. But perfectly logical with the characters you created and the story you were telling.

Speaking of characters - your lead actor - spot-on with his mannerisms. Not too over-the-top or cliche, completely believable.

Excellent work.

[pia12254]

I agree with all of these thoughts! Superbly acted. Well shot (I appreciated the dolly shots...what kind of dolly do you use by the way?). The story was intelligent and didn't seem to cliche/cheezy to me which I have seen a lot of these types of films fall into very easily!

I thought the story was headed in a different direction so when it turned out the way I did I was pleasantly suprised.

My personal preference on the CC would be to make it a little more moody when he enters the house. For instance, the shot where he first enters the foyer looks way to bright/flat compared to some of the others. I think if it were darker with a little more contrast it might "feel" creepier. Just my personal preference though and a very minor detail in an otherwise stellar film!

I just got an HV20 and am really impressed by what comes out of such a tiny little thing! :)

Ciao!

Daniel

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Gnarly.

Absolutely captivating short.

So much tension in the bathroom/hallway scene. I hadn't been that antsy watching a movie since the first time I saw The Departed. Loved the reveal/disappear.

And the ending - I didn't see that coming. But perfectly logical with the characters you created and the story you were telling.

Speaking of characters - your lead actor - spot-on with his mannerisms. Not too over-the-top or cliche, completely believable.

Excellent work.Fantastic! Sounds like you really got into it. Thanks for the descriptive analysis. I'm glad that it worked so well for you.
Next time watch it in the dark with headphones for a real treat. :evil:

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

I agree with all of these thoughts! Superbly acted. Well shot (I appreciated the dolly shots...what kind of dolly do you use by the way?). The story was intelligent and didn't seem to cliche/cheezy to me which I have seen a lot of these types of films fall into very easily!

I thought the story was headed in a different direction so when it turned out the way I did I was pleasantly suprised.

My personal preference on the CC would be to make it a little more moody when he enters the house. For instance, the shot where he first enters the foyer looks way to bright/flat compared to some of the others. I think if it were darker with a little more contrast it might "feel" creepier. Just my personal preference though and a very minor detail in an otherwise stellar film!

I just got an HV20 and am really impressed by what comes out of such a tiny little thing! :)

Ciao!

Daniel

We posted at the same time. :)
I'm a big fan of The Small Multiple so I'm glad to hear that you liked my work. I'm happy that I was able to surprise you with where things were heading. It was tough to Direct at times and keep things from going over the top. Thanks for that compliment.

The dolly was homemade, I've posted pictures in the past. I'll see if I can dig them up. Yah, the lighting in that one shot could be brought down a tad... I'll see what I can do in post.

Thanks for the "stellar film" comment! I really appreciate these comments coming from so many talented people on this forum.

Cheers!

Mike

[Imaginate]

You have a real knack for creating suspense. Loved the shaking hand thing and how you set up the original conflict in such a short time.

Great casting... The woman was very obnoxious... which set up sympathy for the killer. Which as a viewer conflicted me... and creates the emotional response you show get from a piece like this.

I would have shortened the mirror shot... but the blocking on the hallway shot was brilliant.

I liked what you DIDN't show of the murder. I expected him to murder her and was thinking that you might reverse things and have her kill him... given her introduction I wouldnt have doubted that she was capable of it.

I like your use the HV20... I also have that camera and plan to use it on more shoots. How did you record your sound?

I look forward to see more from you.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Responses posted in bold...


You have a real knack for creating suspense. Loved the shaking hand thing and how you set up the original conflict in such a short time.

Thanks! People seem to like that shot.

Great casting... The woman was very obnoxious... which set up sympathy for the killer. Which as a viewer conflicted me... and creates the emotional response you show get from a piece like this.

Awesome! I was hoping for that just a bit. Not too much though, he is a psycho! :)

I would have shortened the mirror shot... but the blocking on the hallway shot was brilliant.

Thanks so much!

I liked what you DIDN't show of the murder. I expected him to murder her and was thinking that you might reverse things and have her kill him... given her introduction I wouldnt have doubted that she was capable of it.

Yah, I like leaving some things to the imagination. He had the drop on her for sure though. :)

I like your use the HV20... I also have that camera and plan to use it on more shoots. How did you record your sound?

Used a separate digital recorder for some, a Canon mic attachment that mounts on the camera for most of it.

I look forward to see more from you.

Cheers!

[kurtmo]

Well done film. I liked the general concept. Thought the actors pulled off their parts well. When it was clear about the leads intentions, I got nervous…just what you wanted! So, good job!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Well done film. I liked the general concept. Thought the actors pulled off their parts well. When it was clear about the leads intentions, I got nervous…just what you wanted! So, good job!

Great! Thanks again for your time. I'm glad that it made you nervous. :)

[Maximus]

Good job! :thumbsup:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Good job! :thumbsup:Thanks! :thumbsup:

Keep the reviews coming.

Cheers,

Mike

[Dustin R. Rogan]

Spoilers (kinda)
If i had a neighbor like this guy...I might have to kill him...
Well done sir! Especially since I know you were alone for this one!

love the part when shes walking down the hall then he appears outta no where, then she crosses the hall and then hes gone...creepy rainman guy, with a hammer.

Was it just me or did the main actor appear in your Joel 3:15 movie as the neighbor? and same house..or area?

Big fan, thanks for the view!

Rogan

[Existentialist]

Alright, Michael, let's talk about lighting.

How did you light the hallway scene? Just those lights we see?
The external night shots?

[pauly_the_hitman]

I thought I had OCD but man this guy has a leg up on me. Good job guys I dug the short.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Spoilers (kinda)
If i had a neighbor like this guy...I might have to kill him...
Well done sir! Especially since I know you were alone for this one!

love the part when shes walking down the hall then he appears outta no where, then she crosses the hall and then hes gone...creepy rainman guy, with a hammer.

Was it just me or did the main actor appear in your Joel 3:15 movie as the neighbor? and same house..or area?

Big fan, thanks for the view!

RoganThe main actor was also the lead in Joel 3:15, not the neighbour. :)

Thanks, Dustin. Glad you dug it.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Alright, Michael, let's talk about lighting.

How did you light the hallway scene? Just those lights we see?
The external night shots?
There were other lights placed around the house but out of camera shot in that hallway scene. I believe you can see one desk lamp in the shot.
I placed the most powerful lights in the bathroom that she exits from.

The night scenes were done with houselights and a set of outdoor rink floodlights.

I have further scenes shot in the car, mostly lit with a battery lamp and a flashlight. Like what you saw when he writes down the time and "Leaves door unlocked".

[Dustin R. Rogan]

The main actor was also the lead in Joel 3:15, not the neighbour. :)

Thanks, Dustin. Glad you dug it.

Thought he looked familiar...

[John LaBonney]

Well Mike there's nothing but positive comments and reviews about The Watchman in this thread so far, but I suppose I can add a few.

First of all, I think it's time for Ian to pack up and head to Hollywood. He stole the show in Robin The Spy and again displays his abilities in this film. He played it just right--he's a natural. So start looking for a new actor for your shorts.

Script-wise, I think this film has surpassed your other entries. A key element to get across was the neurotic nature of the Watchman. I think that this was done well. If anything, I would have liked to see even more shots of his schedule as he constantly referred back to it, getting upset if anything was a minute off. This characterization I think was even a little more important than the murder to the film.

The hallway shot is great, I think everyone loved it.

All-in-all, a great entry!

John

[Susanne G.]

A psycologic study - very well done - I enjoyed it.

Susanne

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Well Mike there's nothing but positive comments and reviews about The Watchman in this thread so far, but I suppose I can add a few.

First of all, I think it's time for Ian to pack up and head to Hollywood. He stole the show in Robin The Spy and again displays his abilities in this film. He played it just right--he's a natural. So start looking for a new actor for your shorts.

Script-wise, I think this film has surpassed your other entries. A key element to get across was the neurotic nature of the Watchman. I think that this was done well. If anything, I would have liked to see even more shots of his schedule as he constantly referred back to it, getting upset if anything was a minute off. This characterization I think was even a little more important than the murder to the film.

The hallway shot is great, I think everyone loved it.

All-in-all, a great entry!

JohnThanks!

The Director's Cut will show his disorder in a little more detail. I have some things planned. :)

Ian is a great actor. I think we have both come a long way since Robin the Spy. I'm glad that he continues to want to work with me considering that I do this with a little camera and no crew. That and he doesn't get paid, just fed. When I sent him the script he replied immediately and said that he was in. He didn't even read it. He's committed to making movies and getting his face out there.

Great attitude!

Cheers,

Mike

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

A psycologic study - very well done - I enjoyed it.

SusanneMissed this.

Thanks so much. As you know, I enjoyed Red Shoes quite a bit.
Thanks for the comment.

Mike

[John LaBonney]

Mike:

Most shorts are designed from the beginning to be just that---shorts. And in most cases, they shouldn't be made into longer films, they're better off left alone. But I wonder if in this case there's the potential for something longer (feature length) here? Just an idea...

John

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Yes, but a lot of shorts are 10 minutes long. My Director's Cut will be about 7.5 minutes in length.

I agree though, this could be developed further. That's how I like to write. People said the same thing about Joel 3:15. I like to leave the audience pondering on things. I'm not a fan of wrapping things up in a neat little package. This could just be the beginning for him. :D

I'm still not talented enough to make a feature and I haven't been doing this sort of thing for nearly long enough.

Thanks again for watching and commenting.

Keep them coming gang!

Cheers,

Mike

[STYLZ]

Greaaaat use of time theme. Really enjoyed this.

[Blaine]

Very entertaining, Mike. I enjoyed it. :thumbsup:

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Greaaaat use of time theme. Really enjoyed this.Thanks! I really try my hardest to incorporate the theme as best I possibly can. I enjoy the other films that do so as well.

Thanks for watching.

Cheers,

Mike