Your thoughts on LossFest so far? [Archive] - DVXuser.com -- The online community for filmmaking

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Richard J. Johnson

03-10-2009, 01:49 PM

There were some good films here. The theme wasn't my favorite but some filmmakers nailed it.

I have watched 90% of the films and commented on almost all of them and strangely the comedies seem to be some of the best films.

Zak Forsman

03-10-2009, 02:05 PM

jealous man, i'm stuck at work and have only been able to watch about a dozen. i want to devour these so bad.

Richard J. Johnson

03-10-2009, 02:15 PM

jealous man, i'm stuck at work and have only been able to watch about a dozen. i want to devour these so bad.

I was dying at work earlier so I feel your pain.:Drogar-Evil(DBG):

Chris Messineo

03-10-2009, 02:53 PM

I'm thoroughly impressed so far. Some of the best storytelling I've seen in any of the fests to date.

Richard J. Johnson

03-10-2009, 02:57 PM

Man I just watched every single movie and commented on 99 % in 5 hours exactly. I am dead tired and never want to see that dvxuser leader ever again.

There were some really good stories here. I need to watch some of them again. after I rest up. I have my top 3 right now but I need to check some out again.

Zak Forsman

03-10-2009, 03:05 PM

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-10-2009, 03:20 PM

I've been through quite a few, including the entries from the forum members that I know and expect a lot from. Good Fest so far.

Not sure if it's the best yet though. Could be the theme that's hurting some for me.
I'll let you know when I'm done. :)

Rodney V. Smith

03-10-2009, 03:27 PM

I'm going through slowly. Watching, rating, then commenting. Unfortunately I'm playing Daddy-Day Care today, so I have my hands full of inquisitive 10 month old, who wants to bang on the keyboard and in two keystrokes, reset all of my keyboard shortcuts...

So watching slowly, but working my way through them, determined to comment on every single one.

So far, I'm loving it. In some cases, the theme seems to have been missed or glossed over, but pretty strong turnout so far.

Postmaster

03-10-2009, 03:31 PM

I saw 90% and have 6 favourites.

What hits me is - even more than in the last fests - handheld-permanent-focusing-wide-open-style.

Some guys seem to be obsessed with super narrow DOF.

God knows I like DOF, but in some films it is quite on my nerves because the subject permanently jumps in and out of focus while my eyes try to adjust.
That, in combination with a shaky camera distracts me from the story.
Wich is a bad thing, cause offten the storys are good.

Also I found the use of "over the top" grading just for the sake of it, instead of using it to support the story a bit inflationary.

In my book there is still too much emphasis on the technical aspects of film making but storytelling.

On the other hand we saw some real gems. A lot of folks now produce pretty mature films - looks like everyone is learning a lot here (including me).

Frank

warau

03-11-2009, 12:44 AM

In my book there is still too much emphasis on the technical aspects of film making but storytelling.

Frank

I can't relate to past fests but I agree with this as far as the films I have seen so far. A good story will cover a multitude of technical mistakes, a poor story can look great, but it is still a poor story and hard to watch.

ramsaur

03-11-2009, 01:15 AM

I've watched the full 100% started today around 1pm and finished around 11pm. No work so I got to sit here and stare at the screen of all these great filmmakers works. I was impressed with a lot of the films! I haven't done my rating yet. I will save that for tomorrow. My eyes are bugged out and I need some sleep. Oh and yes, the dvx leader did get on my nerves for a while there but I still watched it.

In the Exhibition section the film "The Things We Carry" IMO was the best out of the two exhibition films. Man if that one was cut down to the length and was in for voting that one would have definitely gotten my vote! Check that one out, if no one has seen it.

Everyone else... Great Job! Can't wait to see who comes down to the top whatever we will be having.

singleframe

03-11-2009, 01:46 AM

I can't relate to past fests but I agree with this as far as the films I have seen so far. A good story will cover a multitude of technical mistakes, a poor story can look great, but it is still a poor story and hard to watch.

people always under estimate quality writing. that is the back bone of every film. if it 'aint there, you really got to fill the void. and with anything low budget....well, good luck.

p.s. i do like the plethora of films submitted -- great fest so far! i'm still only 20% done...
tomorrow will be my day of catch up.

Brian Parker

03-11-2009, 02:49 AM

I'm really lagging behind in viewing because of life things but tomorrow should be a day where I can sit down and really dig in and start leaving feedback.

orchidsofwrath

03-11-2009, 03:53 AM

singleframe

03-11-2009, 04:41 AM

have only watched around 10 at this point, but so far I must say... lots of gorgeous actresses. Hah the films are great too. This is my first fest in watching and participating and I must say watching, rating and commenting is pretty fun.

im with you...we had a pretty hot one in ours too. ha.

and this being my first fest participation, i'm also enjoying the watching, rating & commenting routine. some of these look so good, i can actually route my laptop to my TV and watch them on the big screen.

okay, one more then bed time.......

kyrre

03-11-2009, 07:48 AM

This is my first fest in watching and participating and I must say watching, rating and commenting is pretty fun.
I second that. This is great fun to be part of! :)

Rodney V. Smith

03-11-2009, 08:49 AM

Originally Posted by Postmaster http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?p=1572093#post1572093)
In my book there is still too much emphasis on the technical aspects of film making but storytelling.

Frank

Yeah look for people gushing over the all mighty RED and ignoring everything else. Right now Zak is rocking the D90, Armisano is kicking the shi* out of the DVX and people are still gushing over the RED. Like WTF? Look at the film as a whole and the experience, not what it was shot on.

One dude has a list of his top favorites and he lists the bloody CAMERA next to the movie, like it matters! urgh.

</vent>

timbook2

03-11-2009, 08:56 AM

I can't relate to past fests but I agree with this as far as the films I have seen so far. A good story will cover a multitude of technical mistakes, a poor story can look great, but it is still a poor story and hard to watch.

My first gripes were with sound. Music used to cover up a weak script/story/acting/whatever. Loud music! so loud and obnoxious that I had to stop watching!
many times no atmosphere sound at all, which is ok as a special element but not for a whole short film IMO.

then I found some obsessive DOF stuff too ;-)

but some of the films nail it!

Sprocketboy

03-11-2009, 10:57 AM

I've gone through, maybe 14 films so far and really enjoyed most of them. I have to agree on the fact that in this fest, comedy is king. Its true the techie part of filmmaking cannot hold a candle to a good, well-told story, but you need really good actors to deliver it.

Story and actors are the columns that hold up the coliseum.

That DVXUser opening logo is playing on all the monitors in my house, but the scary thing is, that someone told me they are all turned off. Please shorten it for the next fest.

Postmaster

03-11-2009, 12:49 PM

Quality is getting better each time you enter a new fest (would be scary the other way round).

Now most of us are able to pull a - more or less - solid and mature film, from a tech point of view. (yeah I know my audio sucks).

Next step for me is acting (maybe I should stopp to talk all my friends in front of the camera and get real actors) and story telling. I think that (audio aside) are the weakest points in my work.

Frank

SparkyZa

03-11-2009, 01:00 PM

This is a blast! What a great group of filmmakers.

lawriejaffa

03-11-2009, 01:04 PM

I don't know if comedy is king, i think for sure there are some effective comedies (stupendous imo is among them) others are cute but a bit juvenile - and i think really the theme of the fest demanded a little more than frat comedy from some.

In other words im looking beyond the obvious crowd pleasers myself, and also blatant sentimentality too of course, there are some films here that have really captured the human spirit (in a variety of ways) either with stylised visual poetry/ or excellent drama.

This fest is imo a little awkward actually for some filmmakers, it casts an uncomfortable mirror. What tendencies there are for cliche or contrived material is absurdly magnified beyond the more exotic fest topics of the past. I think one of the fests great benefits is the maturity of some works and the maturity it has encouraged, and the amusing contrast it draws with those entries less mature.

Nick_Lee

03-11-2009, 01:12 PM

I've seen some good stuff man. I thought the stories would be terrible but definitely some good stuff.

I don't know how many of you guys go to/have been to church but you know when the pastor is preaching and it feels like he's talking about you without saying anything directly? That's what this thread feels like. hahaha.

too much shallow dof, handheld, and the mirror reference lawriejaffa just made was ridiculous. haha. I'm not sure if you guys know what i mean or not.

Richard J. Johnson

03-11-2009, 01:20 PM

But shallow DOF is the only way to make a movie. It simply can not be done any other way. : )

lawriejaffa

03-11-2009, 01:24 PM

and the mirror reference lawriejaffa just made was ridiculous.

What was ridiculous about my opinion? Admittedly the wording could be clearer but my point basically is - that a gimmicky festival with a funky theme lends itself to greater superficiality and i think lets filmmakers get away with more without learning as much about their own film's weaknesses.

Lossfest - is tough because its theme is blatant, to grasp this kind of subject matter and produce effective mature works is really difficult. The point about the mirror, is that the work the filmmakers make will be a very 'clear' reflection of their deficiencies that might otherwise be hidden with say zombie fest haha.

Not that ridiculous is it?

Mark Harris

03-11-2009, 01:25 PM

I haven't seen any super WOWs in this fest, but I think the overall quality is pretty solid, compared to some past fests. And all in all, I feel like the overall attention to acting has much more so than previous fests.

I think if I wanted one thing in the next fest, it would be for people to push themselves harder. I've seen a couple of entries that were good, but did not really go beyond what I'd seen from the same people in the past.

Postmaster

03-11-2009, 01:27 PM

I wonder what we would be able to pull of, if we all would work at one place on one major project together.

Are the most of us lonsome gunmen, used to have all the controll over every aspect?
Would we be able to pull on one string in one direction? Or are our egos to big to be only a little gearwheel in a big machine, cause lonsome one-man-show filmmakers need big egos?

With all the talent here, would we create the bigest, best indy film of all times or would we fail and fight each other cause we have to different styles?

Frank

Nick_Lee

03-11-2009, 01:33 PM

What was ridiculous about my opinion? Admittedly the wording could be clearer but my point basically is - that a gimmicky festival with a funky theme lends itself to greater superficiality and i think lets filmmakers get away with more without learning as much about their own film's weaknesses.

Not that ridiculous is it?

no, no haha. sorry dude I worded that terribly. I said that because I have a mirror scene in my short and I was talking about how I felt like everyone was talking about my short. sorry for the misunderstanding sir. haha. totally unintentional.

lawriejaffa

03-11-2009, 01:36 PM

Oh haha no probs and yes so you do - I watched yours a little while ago - review coming :)

Nick_Lee

03-11-2009, 01:43 PM

Oh haha no probs and yes so you do - I watched yours a little while ago - review coming :)

haha okay great. misunderstandings lead to terrible things.

Richard J. Johnson

03-11-2009, 02:03 PM

I have to agree with the wow factor. Some very solid films and good acting but there isn't a clear knock out this time, which does make it interesting.

in the past I knew 02 or RPDM would win as soon as saw them.
And when I first saw broadcast I said "that's the winner".

But overall I really enjoyed this fest.

And I aint complaining at all at least it levels the field a little. : )

I haven't seen any super WOWs in this fest, but I think the overall quality is pretty solid, compared to some past fests. And all in all, I feel like the overall attention to acting has much more so than previous fests.

I think if I wanted one thing in the next fest, it would be for people to push themselves harder. I've seen a couple of entries that were good, but did not really go beyond what I'd seen from the same people in the past.

Chris_Keaton

03-11-2009, 02:08 PM

pia12254

03-11-2009, 02:14 PM

Zak Forsman

03-11-2009, 02:25 PM

I'm curious how people judge/evaluate the films as they watch them. Does the way in which they manage/integrate the theme play highly for you? Or do you evaluate based more on the film itself? Is the technical proficiency a consideration or do you judge primarily based on story/acting alone?

It seems several people have mentioned how the films integrated the theme and it made me realize that I kind of forget about the theme when I am watching the films! :D

for me its all about the filmmaker's intent and how well I perceive they executed it. so something like Losers in Excess is judged by a different thought process than say something more polished like, oh i dont know.... Placebo. I don't use the rating to rank the films against each other. i rate according to how successful the filmmakers were at making the film they set out to make. which is still subjective, but fairer. i think.

pauly_the_hitman

03-11-2009, 02:37 PM

I am so trying to find time to watch them. I have more time since i don't have to bother messing with my dead thread. Looking forward to watching them all...
Pauly

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-11-2009, 02:37 PM

I do take the theme into account when judging though, otherwise why should we bother with one?

If I don't feel the theme of loss you lose points. It doesn't have to rule the film, but I shouldn't have to wonder at the end what happened to it either.

I think as a whole the entries are getting better. There are less bad entries. On the flip side I wasn't blown away by some of the top films like I was the last few Festivals.

Still not done watching though.

MAH

timbook2

03-11-2009, 02:40 PM

I must admit the theme comes last ( unless pushed upon me during the film).
I watch each film totally open, letting it grab me ( or not)
a few films made me smile/laugh while I watched....the mockumentary and 1 up for instance.
I still havent seen all of them.....

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-11-2009, 02:46 PM

I must admit the theme comes last ( unless pushed upon me during the film).
Don't take me the wrong way, it's not at the top of my list.

But if I feel it was ignored... that film will be rated lower because of it.

Zak Forsman

03-11-2009, 02:50 PM

i'd love to be able to acknowledge the great work of some people other than the submitting filmmakers. Herman got some well deserved recognition in the past. But I think it would be great for everyone to be able to write in Acting, Cinematography, Writing nominees. and if someone gets a significant number of mentions they get a nod as BEST ACTOR - DVXFest LossFest, that kind of thing would be fun.

eric meisner's cinematography might be one i'd throw out there. the editing of Acceptance is another that comes to mind. jessica sinclair's performances, etc...

Rodney V. Smith

03-11-2009, 02:50 PM

I thought the theme was the whole point of these fests. Being able to take the theme and adhere to it, yet come up with something unique and powerful, or to simply tell the best story based to that theme. R.P.D.M did this magnificently in Timefest (Use the theme in a unique and original way), Broadcast (Twilightfest) used the theme very matter of factly and told a brilliant Twilight Zone story as best they could (which was very well indeed).

Embracing the theme should be encouraged and praised. Not even glancing at the theme... well...

JCVR

03-11-2009, 02:58 PM

i'm going to be really curious to see what people attach themselves to. There's a lot of good stuff in here.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-11-2009, 02:59 PM

pia12254

03-11-2009, 04:39 PM

Lawsuit_Boy

03-11-2009, 05:04 PM

This feels like a GREAT fest to me so far. It's the first one I've ever entered (tried for Lovefest but didn't finish).

I've been pretty impressed with an assortment of the films and I truly appreciate EVERY film for what they set out to do.

I'm getting fatigued though. I'm closing in on 50 views/votes/comments, and I've been tending to write good to fairly lengthy comments for each. Phew! This is tough work! *takes a nap*

Lawsuit_Boy

03-11-2009, 05:05 PM

I agree with you guys, Michael and Zak! Being able to nominate people in a few specific categories (Best Cinematography, Score, Actor, etc.) would be awesome! There is so much that goes into these films but the Director seems to be the one that stands to gain the most from a generic "Top 3" finish. I'm not saying it is bad by any means but it would be AWESOME to have films be recognized for great achievement in a specific area.

My $.02.

I'm definitely on board with this. Even if they aren't given any prizes (and that's understandable since it's all donations), I think that superior quality work in specific areas should be recognized. I think it would make the festival feel more "whole."

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-11-2009, 05:11 PM

I'm getting fatigued though. I'm closing in on 50 views/votes/comments, and I've been tending to write good to fairly lengthy comments for each. Phew! This is tough work! *takes a nap*Pace yourself. There's still plenty of time.

MAH

Rodney V. Smith

03-11-2009, 05:15 PM

I just finished watching them all and now I'm going backward and trying to comment on the ones I missed. But I hear you on the exhaustion: trying to give a good solid review is tiring, as well as trying to respond to reviews on you rown movie and answer questions. I'm getting there though.

Lawsuit_Boy

03-11-2009, 05:25 PM

Yeah, it can be exhausting. Honestly though, I feel fine with it. I love giving people feedback on their work so it has been a joy for me. I try to give as much as I can without ending up with a page full of stuff that they've probably already heard before. I think I'm doing a good job with my critiques. I just hope everyone gets a chance to read them with all of the chaos going on around here.

But I'm going to make another pass at each film just to see if my viewing experience has changed at all before I make a final vote. The feedback will remain, but the vote won't be final for me until I see them all twice.

Chris Messineo

03-11-2009, 05:30 PM

I have about a dozen more to watch and review. It's been a lot of fun.

Once I'm done, I want to read the other threads and see what other have thought about the films.

warau

03-11-2009, 06:27 PM

I am 3/4 of the way through, should finish watching them tonight or tomorrow. I have commented on 90% of them but honestly, I don't always have anything to add. I am really impressed with the quality of some of the films! I think I have a long way to go.

Mark Harris

03-11-2009, 06:30 PM

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-11-2009, 06:34 PM

There used to be different categories in the past and no one voted because it was too complicated. The score was a composite of all of them.

But maybe we should make an unofficial poll for these?
Good idea. Maybe decide on the categories here?

Either way, make it public! Otherwise most filmmakers will just vote for their cast/crew. In some cases that would be fine, but not in all. :evil:

Mickey Munday

03-11-2009, 06:48 PM

i've only watched about 14 of them so far and i noticed a good amount of them seem to not really nail the theme. probably half of them have bad audio, i just got finished looking at one where the ADR is really bad and the dialogue isnt even really matching the characters lip movement. i'm sure these will get better as i go along, so far i think the last few fests have been better though in terms of story which is where i put most of my attention when watching these.

CallaghanFilms

03-11-2009, 07:27 PM

I am working my way through the films as we speak - and if I can be frank...

On the technical side (IE cinematography, lighting, staging, and so on and so forth) I think, overall, the batting averages are quite high this time around. The acting across the board is also respectable for the most part and much, much more than merely adequate in some cases. There are still some (really) amateurish performances...but the "the camera likes you" to "WTF were the casting dept snorting" ratio has made a major swing for...well, for the respectable for LossFest. In other words, the "look" of the entrees by and large is "there", good and proper.

However...
The writing IMHO has slipped a bit for this particular rodeo. Again, I have not seen them all yet - so, yes, I am generalizing based on those I have seen. That being said, I am screening them and trying to spot "My Favorite Bit of Dialogue" for each film (to post in its title thread)...and I am finding myself re-watching some of them two or three times just find a line that snaps, crackles OR pops. On a few I gave up the ghost entirely, and left my comment card blank.

Oh, looks like my next batch of films is downloaded. :beer:Here's to these proving me wrong. Then I'll be the first to say, "Callaghan has his head waaaaay up his ass."

Rodney V. Smith

03-11-2009, 07:30 PM

...I am screening them and trying to spot "My Favorite Bit of Dialogue" for each film (to post in its title thread)...and I am finding myself re-watching some of them two or three times just find a line that snaps, crackles OR pops.

I'd like to vote (shameless self promotion here) for the "Flost in a Macy's Day Parade" line from Falling Up....
:dankk2:

alex whitmer

03-11-2009, 07:31 PM

Haven't read through all (any) of the comments here, so maybe this has been mentioned ...

The performances are way up from last fest. Seems the importance of casting finally got a front burner.

a

www.alexwhitmer.wordpress.com

Blaine

03-11-2009, 07:49 PM

I have three folders that the films go into: Good, Average, Bad. I've been doing it this way since DramaFest. I watch the film, give it a rating, put it in a folder (try to review it online) then move to the next.

I've watched about half the films and I'm getting about the same amount of Good Films. Right now, I have 8 and one of those is exhibition only. (ps I didn't rate Mark Harris' exhibition movie as it was impossible to do since it is currently such a work in progress) The Average folder has a larger percentage than in the past and this seems to be because I'm putting fewer in the Bad Folder.

Based on the way I've watched the films, I don't expect to see anymore in my Good folder unless a real dark horse raises its head. As has been stated, I haven't seen any that just blow me away with the wow factor, but there have been some good ones. There IS one I think stands above the rest and I'll wait to see how it does in the end.

I'm not necessarily seeing more Good films in this fest, but I AM seeing less Bad films.

I've seen some definite improvement in some filmmakers while some are still struggling. Some of the guys that should be at the top of their game haven't hit that wow factor yet, so I'm a bit disappointed there. Other filmmakers seem to be plugging along in a "blue collar" fashion...making decent movies but not really showing much new.

When I watch the movies I look for the whole experience. I could really care less what camera is being used as long as they're "making pretty pictures." In fact, since I downloaded the folders of films and haven't read any of the threads, I have no idea who's using what camera, beyond the experience of knowing what their preference is or what they've used in the past.

I want to see good acting with age appropriate actors. In the past we've had movies with high school kids playing 30s something business men. Boy, did I used to harp on that one. I don't see much of that any more. So now, it's more the acting chops I'm seeing and can judge on.

If the story sucks you've lost me. I want a good story and when it's done I want to understand in some way what I've just seen. Throw me some curves all the better but tell a good story.

Acting and story are MOST important to me. And please don't forget the sound. I hate a bad sounding movie. There are several composers on the site that love to participate, get to know them and get them on board. It makes a world of difference.

Pretty pictures are nice but if that's all it is, it seems a waste.

Overall, the floor seems to be rising which is a good thing. The ceiling hasn't really risen much, but I'm sure sometime someone will hit it out of the park again, if not in this festival, perhaps the next or the one after that. I'll keep watching, waiting for that to happen. But in the meantime, I'll be happy that I'm not seeing nearly as many BAD movies as I used to which tells me the talent is growing around here.

Jason Ramsey

03-11-2009, 07:56 PM

If you guys wanted to do a poll or whatever for unofficial awards that would be cool. Or, if you want to all pm me your write-in suggestions then I can announce any that get enough worth recognizing them for...

and maybe wil be able to do a little something special for them as well. but, at the very least it would be nice to at least give acknowledgment.

Later,
Jason

CallaghanFilms

03-11-2009, 08:00 PM

...Acting and story are MOST important to me...
Blaine, my man-

You and I have discussed that very topic on more than one occasion...

It should be no surprise that I concur whole-soulily (whole-heartedly is so overdone).

Darkline

03-11-2009, 08:32 PM

To excuse my 'hit and run' tactic here, let me just say I will hopefully get round to viewing more films, but right now I've only had a chance to watch just over half of them and unfort I dont have time to comment on all of them. So I thought I would group my top 5 and thoughts here instead. sorry...

My top 5 (of the 'in competition' shorts) :

1) Collections Vol 4:Mint in Box

This was just effortless, funny, and probably the most engaging short of the bunch. A simple but brilliantly executed premise that pulls you in from the off. Great dialogue, pacing, beats, a convincing lead... technically sound. I think my pick of the lot. it just worked as a package for me like no other did.

2) Acceptance

With the slight reservation of the familiar ending (for my taste), I thought this was great film-making. It reminded me a lot of dogma, maybe 'festen'. Editing was top notch and of all the films on show that tried for that naturalisitc indie feel, I thought this nailed it most effectively; it also created a character you cared about in a short space of time. Really good to see some european cinema in here. This felt like the opening to a feature and was very cinematic without being contrived. I believed every moment of it.

3) Placebo

Just a great film all around. Well, shot, written, lit. Everything seemed to work and was again one of the most all round entertaining films. If I was to nit-pick it was perhaps too flashy in places, and I'd have liked a more conclusive final shot (what happened to the guy?). This aside, there was so much in this short to admire I cant even list them. Great work, very pro.

4) Chalk Dog

I know people will think I'm mad for picking this as it wasn't great technically by any means, and there are so many WTF moments.... but I just love it. Perhaps it was just refreshing after a string of overly sincere short films, but something seemed honest amongst the madness which is what made it stand out. When he was making the dog run around on the chalk marks in his living room with sinister music - I just couldn't stop laughing. The chalk mark at the end in a semi-dog/human shape. It was just fresh. My pick of the unconventional films here. The line 'Do you know brad's dog?', is wicked. Maybe its just my f*cked up humour :huh:

5) The Puppateer

Final of the top 5 is this all action tense piece. I especially liked the bit with the ninja-type guys at the desk and the repeated cutting. I was thinking 'what's going on?', and then a woman walks into the room and says exactly that. Ok I didnt know what was going on at all... I laughed when that guy spits on his own floor for no reason, and I laughed that a guy looking into a microscope is wearing shades! But this was just fun and very enjoyable to watch. It gets straight into it and doesn't let up. Lots of great moments. I remember the last short you made and this is a significant leap forward in my book.... I wanted to see it all kick off at the end, but maybe in a sequel?

I may refine my choices if I get time to watch the others but my opinon so far is that the films that didn't try so hard for emotional loss are the ones coming out near the top for me. I felt a lot of films tried to prop up emotion cosmetically, with powerful music or lingering shots, rather than any actual narrative drive or character motivation. Sometimes the subext really wasnt clear, or even there.

Some shorts really did achieve it, and thats hard to do. But I think overall I was finding it hard to watch the next 'sincere' short, and I got a bit jaded. Perhaps that is why some of my picks are a bit more light hearted.

Once agian I'm sorry I don't have time to comment on everyone's short, I know how hard is it to even get one made and you all did better than me.... If any of you really wants honest feedback then drop me a pvt and I'll try to watch and give you my thoughts over PM.

good luck to everyone.

Norm Sanders

03-11-2009, 10:41 PM

I'm slowly whittling my way through the films, right now having only watched & commented on 10 so far, and trying to give in-depth feedback where ever possible. I'm also rating them as I go, 1 star being something that sucked so bad I couldn't even finish it (I've not experienced anything like that in this fest so far), and 10 being a drop-my-jaw-mind-blowing-experience, which I've also not found yet ... though I have rated one a 9 so far, as my highest rating.

My method is to 1st acknowledge those who've commented in my thread, and be sure to watch their films as well & comment, etc. Total honesty, no butt kissing, though I'll try and temper anything that could be construed as negative with some positives as well, etc.

As soon as I catch up on that, then I'll look for names of filmmakers I know & look forward to seeing work from, and get to theirs. After that, it's just going in order of the films listed. As I watch them I drop them into a "watched" folder, and the ones I want to show others will go into a "worth watching again" folder.

So far, I think this is a solid fest, and have been pleasantly surprised in one way or another with nearly every entry.

Richard J. Johnson

03-12-2009, 10:13 AM

You just made my day.:dankk2:

1) Collections Vol 4:Mint in Box

This was just effortless, funny, and probably the most engaging short of the bunch. A simple but brilliantly executed premise that pulls you in from the off. Great dialogue, pacing, beats, a convincing lead... technically sound. I think my pick of the lot. it just worked as a package for me like no other did.

2) Acceptance

With the slight reservation of the familiar ending (for my taste), I thought this was great film-making. It reminded me a lot of dogma, maybe 'festen'. Editing was top notch and of all the films on show that tried for that naturalisitc indie feel, I thought this nailed it most effectively; it also created a character you cared about in a short space of time. Really good to see some european cinema in here. This felt like the opening to a feature and was very cinematic without being contrived. I believed every moment of it.

3) Placebo

Just a great film all around. Well, shot, written, lit. Everything seemed to work and was again one of the most all round entertaining films. If I was to nit-pick it was perhaps too flashy in places, and I'd have liked a more conclusive final shot (what happened to the guy?). This aside, there was so much in this short to admire I cant even list them. Great work, very pro.

4) Chalk Dog

I know people will think I'm mad for picking this as it wasn't great technically by any means, and there are so many WTF moments.... but I just love it. Perhaps it was just refreshing after a string of overly sincere short films, but something seemed honest amongst the madness which is what made it stand out. When he was making the dog run around on the chalk marks in his living room with sinister music - I just couldn't stop laughing. The chalk mark at the end in a semi-dog/human shape. It was just fresh. My pick of the unconventional films here. The line 'Do you know brad's dog?', is wicked. Maybe its just my f*cked up humour :huh:

5) The Puppateer

Final of the top 5 is this all action tense piece. I especially liked the bit with the ninja-type guys at the desk and the repeated cutting. I was thinking 'what's going on?', and then a woman walks into the room and says exactly that. Ok I didnt know what was going on at all... I laughed when that guy spits on his own floor for no reason, and I laughed that a guy looking into a microscope is wearing shades! But this was just fun and very enjoyable to watch. It gets straight into it and doesn't let up. Lots of great moments. I remember the last short you made and this is a significant leap forward in my book.... I wanted to see it all kick off at the end, but maybe in a sequel?

good luck to everyone.

Lawsuit_Boy

03-12-2009, 10:30 AM

I'm almost done with my viewings/commentary. I have eight or nine more to go. Then I'll begin my second pass through ones that I'm not quite sure of and then make final voting decisions.

Interesting fest, overall. It seems to be functioning, in a vast number of levels, as fests have in the past. There are a lot of correlations.

I've certainly had a pretty good time viewing the films. I hope everyone else has too. :beer:

Postmaster

03-12-2009, 10:33 AM

If you guys wanted to do a poll or whatever for unofficial awards that would be cool.

That would be cool indeed.

Can you rig up a poll or should one of us doing that?

Frank

Chris Messineo

03-12-2009, 10:36 AM

I just finished watching and reviewing them all (if I missed anyone please let me know).

I have about a dozen favorites.

Lawsuit_Boy

03-12-2009, 10:41 AM

I have about a dozen favorites.

Same here. It's going to be tricky narrowing it down.

Nice work all around.

Gord.T

03-12-2009, 10:53 AM

I watched a few of my friends entries first and have finished watching the first zip. So far this may turn into my favorite fest to date. I'm pretty happy so far. A notable upward level of creativty in the writing and directing as well as better acting all around. Some really interesting things in every short so far.

Some minor audio problems in a couple, probably because I'm wearing headphones, but yeah, this feels like a true indie fest where the gloves are off and I'm having a good time.

Just a brief note on the leader being oversaturated, yes it is. There will be some new ones coming down the road soon by various artists to help break that monotony.

Excellent job guys. Best time viewing I've had in a while.

pia12254

03-12-2009, 11:22 AM

You made my day as well! :beer: You guys are the ones that did "Broadcast" right?!? If so, then it is an even higher compliment because I thought that film was absolutely outstanding...if I can make a film of that level someday I would be ecstatic!

Cheers!

To excuse my 'hit and run' tactic here, let me just say I will hopefully get round to viewing more films, but right now I've only had a chance to watch just over half of them and unfort I dont have time to comment on all of them. So I thought I would group my top 5 and thoughts here instead. sorry...

My top 5 (of the 'in competition' shorts) :

3) Placebo

Just a great film all around. Well, shot, written, lit. Everything seemed to work and was again one of the most all round entertaining films. If I was to nit-pick it was perhaps too flashy in places, and I'd have liked a more conclusive final shot (what happened to the guy?). This aside, there was so much in this short to admire I cant even list them. Great work, very pro.

MrKilloran

03-12-2009, 12:18 PM

I'm getting through the entries when I can ... about 30 deep so far, some great ones - its getting difficult to pick and choose favorites.

If you guys wanted to do a poll or whatever for unofficial awards that would be cool. Or, if you want to all pm me your write-in suggestions then I can announce any that get enough worth recognizing them for...

and maybe wil be able to do a little something special for them as well. but, at the very least it would be nice to at least give acknowledgment.

I'm 100% for this, it sounds like a great idea.

Zim

03-12-2009, 01:27 PM

I still have a longs way too go. I should be done by sunday.

Sprocketboy

03-12-2009, 01:58 PM

I'm noticing my scoring is changing the more I watch. Some real gems in there.

Noel Evans

03-13-2009, 12:45 AM

This really has been a solid line up this time around. I think if I averaged my scores on all the fests Ive voted on, this would probably be the highest average. Some really cool stuff to watch in there and I still have a few to get through. Cheers DVXuser fest participants.... outdone yourselves.

Norm Sanders

03-13-2009, 12:55 AM

I'm noticing my scoring is changing the more I watch. Some real gems in there.

I know some folks are ranking/starring the films based on how they compare to each other, but for me personally that seems more difficult than just rating the film on a standard 1-10, 5 being just average, middle of the road indie.

1 means it sucks, was a waste of your life to watch it, and probably didn't even finish (haven't seen any of those).

5 means it was average. Nothing really stood out. May have been able to stand on it's own & had merit, with nothing REALLY poor about it either. Just kind of one of those 'meh' films.

10 means it just blew your mind, you loved everything about it, and struggle to find any critiques to give it (I've only seen one of those so far).

If you rate like that, then you can just rate the film immediately after watching it, and don't have to continually change ratings because someone else set a new bench mark on what you think is the new best film (making that one a 10, and downgrading all others, etc.). Just seems way less time consuming, not to mention easier, since there's only 10 stars, and over 60 qualifying films.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-13-2009, 09:27 AM

I've now gone through almost all of them, still plenty to comment on but I'll get it done.

There are less bad movies this Fest, that equals more good movies overall. I still think that there are less great movies though.
I wasn't blown away by as many this Fest.

It does seem that the majority of filmmakers are improving their game and that makes for a more enjoyable Fest overall.

I still wanted some of the big guns to really wow me though.
Could it be that they just didn't stand out as much this Fest because everyone else has improved?
Could be. That might explain it.

PS- This is not a knock at anyone. There are still some really fantastic entries this Fest.

MAH

RodThompson

03-13-2009, 09:53 AM

I look great in red!

warau

03-13-2009, 07:16 PM

I know some folks are ranking/starring the films based on how they compare to each other, but for me personally that seems more difficult than just rating the film on a standard 1-10, 5 being just average, middle of the road indie.

This is almost how I rated them. My "middle of the road" tended towards the 6-7 range. (I have a high tolerance for "sub par" filmmaking.:)) I am finished rating them all and only had one 10, a couple of 9's, several 8's, lots of 7's, etc. I am glad I don't have to choose the top 3, I have around 9 films that would be in the running.

Dustin R. Rogan

03-13-2009, 07:50 PM

I still wanted some of the big guns to really wow me though.

PS- This is not a knock at anyone. There are still some really fantastic entries this Fest.

MAH

Hmp!

Rogan

lol jk

CallaghanFilms

03-13-2009, 10:49 PM

The Callaghan Top 5: LossFest Edition

#1 Lost at Sea
Favorite Bit of Dialogue...
"POO POO IT! ACTION!"

#2 The Things Between Us
Favorite Bit of Dialogue...
"...What's wrong with this place?! What's wrong with being right here with me..."

#3 Placebo
Favorite Bit of Dialogue...
"Whatever the doctors were testing here, they weren't prepared for the results...not by a long shot.'

#4 Collection Vol. 4
Favorite Bit of Dialogue...
"...This?! This? Yeah, I like this! Not on my watch! This, you...this is...this is nothing to me..."

#5 Acceptance
Favorite Bit of Dialogue...
"Awesome stuff...just like the force. 'It surrounds you...penetrates you...it binds the galaxy together'..."

Maximus

03-14-2009, 08:47 AM

Good choices! :thumbsup:

The Callaghan Top 5: LossFest Edition

#1 Lost at Sea
Favorite Bit of Dialogue...
"POO POO IT! ACTION!"

#2 The Things Between Us
Favorite Bit of Dialogue...
"...What's wrong with this place?! What's wrong with being right here with me..."

#3 Placebo
Favorite Bit of Dialogue...
"Whatever the doctors were testing here, they weren't prepared for the results...not by a long shot.'

#4 Collection Vol. 4
Favorite Bit of Dialogue...
"...This?! This? Yeah, I like this! Not on my watch! This, you...this is...this is nothing to me..."

#5 Acceptance
Favorite Bit of Dialogue...
"Awesome stuff...just like the force. 'It surrounds you...penetrates you...it binds the galaxy together'..."

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 10:48 AM

I've viewed and ranked all of the films. At the moment, I haven't given anything below four stars. For a fest like this, I just cannot find myself giving films one measly star. There are a couple that will probably drop to three stars before the 17th, but that's about as low as I'll go. Sure, there are some that didn't engage me at all and I wasn't crazy about (not naming any, so don't ask), but I can tell they made some effort, so I can't give them a "you suck, quit filmmaking" score of one star.

I don't know. I guess I'm like a kindergarten teacher that wants to encourage everyone instead of sharpening them up like a U.S. Marine drill sergeant.

jasonthewho

03-14-2009, 10:56 AM

I'm the exact same way Lawsuit Boy. I still have a few films to go, but as of now, 4 is my lowest rating.

My most popular rating is probably 7.

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 10:59 AM

I'm the exact same way Lawsuit Boy. I still have a few films to go, but as of now, 4 is my lowest rating.

My most popular rating is probably 7.

6 and 7 have been mine.

Shawn Philip Nelson

03-14-2009, 11:45 AM

I'm the exact same way Lawsuit Boy. I still have a few films to go, but as of now, 4 is my lowest rating.

My most popular rating is probably 7.

That seems way too tight of a grouping given the variety of quality.

I've given films a :2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 stars.

I guess I just need a 1er and a 4er to have the complete set :-)

Zim

03-14-2009, 12:15 PM

Just got done watching and voting. Three films I could not open for some reason. Acceptance opened with some different ratio but there was no video.

Blaine

03-14-2009, 12:20 PM

I've got everything from 1-10. If they're BAD they get a 1, 2 or 3. If they're AVERAGE they get a 4, 5 or 6. And if they're GOOD, the get a 7, 8 or 9 with 10 being reserved for my favorite pick of the fest.

kyrre

03-14-2009, 12:21 PM

Just got done watching and voting. Three films I could not open for some reason. Acceptance opened with some different ratio but there was no video.
Say what?

Did you open it in QT-player?

Zim

03-14-2009, 12:23 PM

Yes QT. Let me try again.

Zim

03-14-2009, 12:27 PM

Ok I clicked on your post where it says Click here to watch and that work. I don't know what happened before and I tried it 3 times. I'll watch it now.

kyrre

03-14-2009, 12:32 PM

Ok I clicked on your post where it says Click here to watch and that work. I don't know what happened before and I tried it 3 times. I'll watch it now.
Sounds great!

Let me know what you think afterwards! :beer:

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 01:11 PM

I just don't think anyone on here has the credentials to give a film a 1 in this fest, other than the fact that they flat out "hate" it. If you hate it, okay, it makes some sense, but a 1? I've given Steven Seagal films more stars than that (not much, though). And I don't give tens because I don't like to assume that something is perfect, because it isn't. No film in this festival is perfect and no film ever will be. If I could give a 9.5 to a film on here, there's one or two that I think deserve that.

CallaghanFilms

03-14-2009, 01:32 PM

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-14-2009, 01:43 PM

When rating these films, they should be compared to each other
Actually, some people would disagree with that. At least they did last Fest. :Drogar-Love(DBG):

I'm not going to get into it.
Everyone has their own judging style, I'm sure it all works out in the end.

MAH

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 01:46 PM

When rating these films, they should be compared to each other...not to every other film ever made. So of course there are 1's (IE the worst)...just like absolutely yes, there should be at least one 10 (IE the best). A "10" rating is a vote for that particular film to win - it is in no way making a statement that the short is a "perfect film".:huh:

...what does a 10 rating imply? That there was nothing you didn't like. Yeah, some people will give 10s because a film in the fest is the "best" in their eyes, and some will do it because they think that there's nothing wrong with it because they have some fictional, idealized view of what a "perfect" film is.

But that's not how I rate. I give a very broad range of ratings and I certainly did not give every film the same rating because some are better than others, and better to specific degrees. But I don't believe that, as a film, anything in here deserved a 1 from me.

To explain: I know that some films didn't engage me at all and made me want to turn it off, but I kept watching (and gave detailed reviews for EACH FILM except Mark's so far, but I'm getting to his) and I gauged it by the type of production, the type of film it is, and the amount of effort I can see going into it. I also evaluate the filmmakers themselves and their personalities to a very small extent. After that, I compare the film to others in the fest (not to industry professionals) and find a rating. And this means that even though some of those films did not engage me at all or make me want to watch it, they still exhibited merits in other areas that awarded them other stars. I also enjoy rewarding people for effort.

So, while I did not give anything below a three and no tens, I have hit every number in between.

I think I did a fine job of voting, and I know that many other people have different philosophy and will give 1's and 10's, thus balancing the averages out.

I see no problem with this. :beer:

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 01:47 PM

I'm not going to get into it.
Everyone has their own judging style, I'm sure it all works out in the end.

MAH

Exactly my point. As long as people read what I just wrote, they'll see that I believe we can all have different systems of voting based on our own preferences, and the winners will still be the winners. It balances out.

Brandon Rice

03-14-2009, 02:10 PM

Here's how I rate

10 - Phenominal short. Moved me. Technical elements didn't distract me.

5 - Just ok short. Not much emotional reaction. Not as technically strong.

1 - Horrible short. Laughed AT it. Technically poor and distracting.

Just for the record, no shorts have received a 1 from me, and I don't expect any to. Only one has received a ten, and one has received a nine. A lot of 5's and 6's this fest so far.

jasonthewho

03-14-2009, 02:36 PM

My main concern is that everyone be as honest and fair as is possible, within their system.

My votes tend to skew higher. But I attempt to be as honest and fair as possible. I just have not seen a film that was so horrible it deserved below a four. And I think it is very very hard to make a film, so I have a high appreciation for everyone who does it.

Jason Ramsey

03-14-2009, 02:42 PM

Sprocketboy

03-14-2009, 02:50 PM

I encourage everyone to rate the films individually, rather than comparatively. But, to each his own.

I never did this before and I began to take the comparative approach, and it really doesn't work. I began to find the ones I liked, lower than I would have rated them individually, and it didn't sit well with me. I've been fixing them as I go along.

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 02:52 PM

Good advice, Jason. I completely agree. Each film should be viewed and rated from 1-10 on its own merits/demerits, not in comparison to what some are calling the "best films" of the festival. Some people are just better at filmmaking and playing the festival game than others, but everyone puts forth a lot of effort, and that is commendable.

CallaghanFilms

03-14-2009, 03:18 PM

The system is intended for you to rate each film on its own individual merits, rather than rating them on a comparison basis of the other films in the fest.

You watch a film, and you tell that filmmaker how well you think they did on a scale of 1-10... Respectfully...
There has to be a level of comparison, Jason. How else could you tell "how well you think they did"? Compared to what? Indie films? Short films? All films? Personally I would rather compare them to each other than to everything else. Otherwise (if Casablanca is a "10"), I don't see any of these making it past 5...even the "outstanding" ones.

:beer:

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-14-2009, 03:42 PM

Respectfully...
There has to be a level of comparison, Jason. How else could you tell "how well you think they did"? Compared to what? Indie films? Short films? All films? Personally I would rather compare them to each other than to everything else. Otherwise (if Casablanca is a "10"), I don't see any of these making it past 5...even the "outstanding" ones.

:beer:So when a new studio Feature comes out should the movie critics always be comparing them to The Godfather? I don't think they do.

As for these Festivals... just watch them, keep the theme in the back of your mind, and rate it. It's really that simple.

Some of these movies are so different that it's really hard to compare them. How do you compare movies like "Lost at Sea" to a movie like "Placebo"?

That's why you should rate them individually.

MAH

ZazaCast

03-14-2009, 03:44 PM

So when a new studio Feature comes out should the movie critics always be comparing them to The Godfather? I don't think they do.

As for these Festivals... just watch them, keep the theme in the back of your mind, and rate it. It's really that simple.

Some of these movies are so different that it's really hard to compare them. How do you compare movies like "Out to Sea" to a movie like "Placebo"?

That's why you should rate them individually.

MAH

YEAH...what he said! (well put Michael)

CallaghanFilms

03-14-2009, 03:51 PM

...Some of these movies are so different that it's really hard to compare them. How do you compare movies like "Out to Sea" to a movie like "Placebo"?...Funny you should ask...
I gave "Out to Sea" my only 10 (seeing as it was the best in my eyes). "Placebo" I gave one of three 9's (which I gave to my 2nd, 3rd, & 4th place ponies).

I have no trouble at all comparing apples to oranges (genre-wise).

Edit:

I just don't think anyone on here has the credentials to give a film a 1 in this fest, other than the fact that they flat out "hate" it. If you hate it, okay, it makes some sense, but a 1? I've given Steven Seagal films more stars than that (not much, though...Personally, I think Under Siege is a much better film than most of the LossFest entries (were I to compare them like my man Lawsuit Boy:evil:)

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-14-2009, 03:56 PM

Funny you should ask...
I gave "Out to Sea" my only 10 (seeing as it was the best in my eyes). "Plecebo" I gave one of three 9's (which I gave to my 2nd, 3rd, & 4th place ponies).

I have no trouble at all comparing apples to oranges (genre-wise).
I love Lost at Sea. I do find it difficult to compare a movie that was far weaker technically when compared to a movie like Placebo. That's why in the end I don't. I rate them by pure enjoyment while watching them. Comparing them to nothing.
I do keep the theme in mind though.

So... should all critics be comparing new Features to The Godfather? Do you honestly think they rate them that way?

MAH

Zak Forsman

03-14-2009, 04:01 PM

Respectfully...
There has to be a level of comparison, Jason. How else could you tell "how well you think they did"? Compared to what? Indie films? Short films? All films? Personally I would rather compare them to each other than to everything else. Otherwise (if Casablanca is a "10"), I don't see any of these making it past 5...even the "outstanding" ones.

:beer:

i'd say to make it relative to their intent and how successful you feel they were at executing that intent. I gave placebo a higher rating than films that I had personally liked better because I recognized the superior execution, even though it's not the sort of story content that appeals to me.

CallaghanFilms

03-14-2009, 04:03 PM

I love Out to Sea. I do find it difficult to compare a movie that was far weaker technically when compared to a movie like Placebo...
...and I don't find it difficult at all:beer:

So... should all critics be comparing new Features to The Godfather? Do you honestly think they rate them that way?
I know I do. No way in hell I'm giving The Departed the same rating as The Godfather I or II (even tho I enjoyed it).

CallaghanFilms

03-14-2009, 04:10 PM

i'd say to make it relative to their intent and how successful you feel they were at executing that intent. I gave placebo a higher rating than films that I had personally liked better because I recognized the superior execution, even though it's not the sort of story content that appeals to me. My "Cup o' Tea" equation doesn't play in to my reviewing/ranking. A good film is a good film, regardless if it is up my cinematic alley or not.

For the record -

My personal criteria is (in order):
1. Writing/Story (not only a well-spun tale, but also a complete narrative)
2. Acting
3. Direction
4. Technical/Everything Else

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-14-2009, 04:22 PM

...and I don't find it difficult at all:beer:
As I said... technically.

By your scale here...

My personal criteria is (in order):
1. Writing/Story (not only a well-spun tale, but also a complete narrative)
2. Acting
3. Direction
4. Technical/Everything Else
Your top movie that you gave a 10 to (Lost at Sea) was a one scene piece, shot over and over again.
It must have scaled low on the technical side? No? If so... how did it still get a 10?

It must have received a 10 in all the areas of your scale to end up with a perfect score. Technically you think it was as good as everything else this Fest?
I saw far more technical pieces that blow it away in that department, no offense to them or their crew.

Now, I also gave it a VERY high score overall, a 9 actually. So it's not like I don't like it. I just rate it simply on enjoyment and theme. It's simpler that way.

If I was going to rate it in 4 categories (assuming each holds an approximate 25% value) I would have had to rate it lower. Because technically there are more superior films in this Festival.

MAH

CallaghanFilms

03-14-2009, 04:44 PM

That criteria is what I look for in all films. As far as my ranking/reviewing...I just look for "the best".

And before anyone asks what "the best" is...It is the polar opposite of "the worst". On a side note...
Speaking of "the worst", it is funny to me how some have no trouble at all discussing their picks (whether it be Plan 9 From Outer Space or Glitter or a Steven Seagal flick). Those same cats see it as a Cardinal Sin and pretentious to even think about saying something is the "best"...

Edit:
Also...
I specified IN ORDER. That means they are not split 4 ways (25% each). I don't give a damn what camera was used if there is no story. For this reason, invaluable lessons can be taken from "Out to Sea", IMHO of course.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-14-2009, 04:55 PM

That criteria is what I look for in all films. As far as my ranking/reviewing...I just look for "the best".

We went round and round but we may have ended up on the same page. :)

CallaghanFilms

03-14-2009, 05:21 PM

Actually...looks like now we're on page 11...er...12 :)

Richard J. Johnson

03-14-2009, 05:41 PM

I rate the films on the enjoyment factor alone.
But that's how I rate hollywood films as well.

This a great fest because I can't see a clear cut champ or even a the group of 2nd rounders yet, because everyone loves different films. This is a fun one.

I have my favs but they are so different than some of yours.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-14-2009, 05:42 PM

Edit:
Also...
I specified IN ORDER. That means they are not split 4 ways (25% each). I don't give a damn what camera was used if there is no story. For this reason, invaluable lessons can be taken from "Out to Sea", IMHO of course.I don't care about the camera either, I'm a big advocate of that. But even if your technical criteria only accounts for 5% of the overall score they should not get the full 5% when compared to some of the more technically advanced films.

One location, same scene over and over. The only thing that changes is the lighting!

That's why I suggest rating films by how you feel after watching them and not comparing them to anything.

You said you compare them to the rest. Well... technically they can't be as strong as the more technically sound films. In some cases they are not even close. I don't care what camera was used. Technically it was an easy film to shoot.

In your system you are saying that technically they are perfect, but in another post you say that you also compare them to the rest of the films when judging them. You really think that technically this is a strong as some of the more difficultly edited/shot/lit films?

Sorry, man. Too many variables in your system don't add up for me. To get a perfect score it would have to be perfect in all 4 ways, regardless of ratio. If it was perfect in category 4 your are cheating the more technically advanced films.

I hope most people just watch these films and judge them as Jason suggested.
Anyway, I loved it and gave it a 9.

As I said before, it doesn't matter how people rate these films, it will probably all balance out.

Sounds like it is. We rate them completely differently but they are both our favourites. I didn't have a perfect film this Fest so 9 was my top score.

MAH

CallaghanFilms

03-14-2009, 05:51 PM

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-14-2009, 05:56 PM

Like it or not there has to be a level of comparison...how else could you say something is your favorite? Favorite outta what?

I'm a right brainer to the core, so tech shmeck I say.

I'm glad to see we agree on what (to me) is the clear winner.:beer:

The film that I liked the most is the one I enjoyed the most. It's a general comparison at best.
I didn't rate its story or technical merits versus the others. If I did it may no longer end up as my favourite. It becomes too clinical at that point.

I go with my gut and I remove marks only if they completely ignored the theme.
PS- More than one film received a 9 from me so I guess I had a few favourites this Fest.

MAH

orchidsofwrath

03-14-2009, 06:59 PM

the technical aspects are in direct support of the story. In my eyes the story/acting/plot/shot comp/artistic stuff are not independant of the technical stuff. Its alot harder to enjoy a film if there's tons of ugly room ambience mudding the dialogue and I can hardly understand them. Just like a novel, the way the story is presented (good imagery/writing) is just as important as the story itself in many cases.

I don't see technical stuff as being "5% of the film" or any percentage of the film's value. Story is 100%, and every aspect of film making (acting, cinemotography, etc etc) is either going to strengthen that story or weaken it.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-14-2009, 07:05 PM

CallaghanFilms

03-14-2009, 07:22 PM

Story is story...whether it be a film, a play, a novel or a bard at the campfire.

Storytellers may try to one-up each other in any number of flash ways, means or presentations...but without a solid story (plot elements, character development, inspired dialogue, etc.), it's all in vain.

Keth Andril

03-14-2009, 07:28 PM

So far I've noticed that the comedies seem to outshine all the rest. Brand New Kitty, Losers to Excess, and Collections Vol. 4: Mint in Box all had me in stitches. The Puppeteer, and Falling Up were both incredibly well done as well, but they seemed almost incomplete compared to the comedies presented.

Kholi

03-14-2009, 07:31 PM

Falling up is awesome. Technically impaired but if those issues were fixed it probably would stand at the top. At least from what I've seen.

Kholi

03-14-2009, 07:48 PM

And I just watched Placebo... Win. That boy's got it.

Blaine

03-14-2009, 08:02 PM

Falling up is awesome. Technically impaired but if those issues were fixed it probably would stand at the top. At least from what I've seen.And that's why we're all different. :)

I don't use 10 to mean perfect in this scoring system. I use it to signify my favorite. There's only going to be one 10 unless, of course, I have a tie for favorite. In this case, I don't. When the voting is done, I'll probably reveal my top 10 but I'd prefer to not have my rankings influence anyone else one way or the other.

I don't consciously compare one to another, I just rate each one on my personal criteria. I could be different than someone else's. There are going to be those that like the technical aspects above all and others who just want to be entertained. Neither is right, neither is wrong. It's subjective. There have been some movies that haven't appealed to me. Now, they aren't going to rate/rank as high as the ones that I enjoyed. I may take other things into consideration when I score them, though. While I may dislike a story, I may give it points for being a well made story I disliked, so it will come out better than a poorly made story I disliked. BUT, a well made story I disliked is not going to come out better than one I loved.

Again, if I considered it a BAD movie, pretty much couldn't get through it, it gets a 1, 2 or 3. If it was an AVERAGE movie, might not have liked the story but appreciated how well it was made, it get's a 4, 5 or 6. If I considered it a GOOD movie, it gets a 7, 8 or 9 with the 10 being reserved for my personal favorite.

In an old scoring system we used for SciFest, HorrorFest etc. there were categories that you rated 1 through 10. In that case, I didn't rate anything a 10 in any category unless it I felt it was perfect in that category. Because all the categories were weighted equally, and because there were more technical categories a movie that was technically good could be a movie with no story or poor acting. That system didn't work too good for me. I like the one we have now, because I can reward the movie I like and penalize those I don't. With 1 through 9 (10 reserved for my favorite) there is plenty of room for gradation.

I don't care how anyone else scores the films as long as it works for them. This works for me.

Rodney V. Smith

03-14-2009, 08:15 PM

Damn Blaine, there goes my lovely bubble.. popped... oh well I loved my bubble while I had it :grin:

Blaine

03-14-2009, 08:22 PM

Damn Blaine, there goes my lovely bubble.. popped... oh well I loved my bubble while I had it :grin:Sorry. I preferred "Keeper of the Lost" to "Falling Up." :beer:

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-14-2009, 08:28 PM

Sorry. I preferred "Keeper of the Lost" to "Falling Up." :beer:Me too! So nah nah na nah nah, Puck! :Drogar-Smoke(DBG):

Richard J. Johnson

03-14-2009, 08:46 PM

Me too! So nah nah na nah nah, Puck! :Drogar-Smoke(DBG):

Lol. What horrigan said.

Its so hard for me to take away stars for technical flaws when my films have them as well. to me there were not any unwatchable films this fest.

Rodney V. Smith

03-14-2009, 08:47 PM

Bubble bursters! But thanks anyway for the vote of confidence!

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 09:37 PM

Lol. What horrigan said.

Its so hard for me to take away stars for technical flaws when my films have them as well. to me there were not any unwatchable films this fest.

I really agree with with this. I feel bad sometimes for taking away points for technical demerits when my film contains them as well. It really sucks being writer, director, DP, editor, and sound designer at the same time. Makes more room for error. :(

Richard J. Johnson

03-14-2009, 09:42 PM

It really sucks being writer, director, DP, editor, and sound designer at the same time. Makes more room for error. :(

Man, I could not agree more.

ZazaCast

03-14-2009, 10:30 PM

Makes more room for error. :(

Or... more room for improvement!:)

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 10:33 PM

Or... more room for improvement!:)

You're certainly a "glass half full" guy, aren't you?

You're right, though. It sucks knowing how to do things properly and then not being ABLE to do it because of a lack of equipment or man-power. Argh!

Rodney V. Smith

03-14-2009, 11:12 PM

You're certainly a "glass half full" guy, aren't you?

You're right, though. It sucks knowing how to do things properly and then not being ABLE to do it because of a lack of equipment or man-power. Argh!

That one bites the big one right there. Only so far you can go by yourself. At some point something's gotta give or you just cannot progress any further.

ZazaCast

03-14-2009, 11:14 PM

You're certainly a "glass half full" guy, aren't you?

You're right, though. It sucks knowing how to do things properly and then not being ABLE to do it because of a lack of equipment or man-power. Argh!

I'm a one-man-show too. Most of the time I'm lucky to be able to find someone to hold a boom! I have to look on the bright side or I'd never get a movie done. Sh*t, most of the time I'm beat by the time I've lugged all the gear to the shoot & set it up...makes for very long days.

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 11:23 PM

I'm a one-man-show too. Most of the time I'm lucky to be able to find someone to hold a boom! I have to look on the bright side or I'd never get a movie done. Sh*t, most of the time I'm beat by the time I've lugged all the gear to the shoot & set it up...makes for very long days.

I didn't have anyone to hold a boom. :( Heck, I didn't even have my xlr/quarter inch cables for the sound equipment in order to get the mic close enough to the action most of the time, which sucked.

Haha, I can totally relate to carrying gear. I was lucky on this project to have at least one other person at a time to help with that. Setting up a steadicam while prepping the actors and making a final definition for the shot as well as checking to make sure we'll get at least fair, not great, sound is certainly a hazardous situation. I feel confident in my work, though. Sure, there are technical foibles mostly in the sound, but even though the sound was quiet and occasionally picked up too much room tone, it was at least consistently mediocre without any cuts or weird losses, haha.

My friend Ryan, who's probably shooting a feature this summer on the RED One, wants me to be his DP (a stronger portrayal of my shooting versatility is on display on my vimeo page http://vimeo.com/user511902/videos ), and I would love to play with the RED. But he has been trying to help me build a crew so I can actually get some solid films done.

Sorry about the shameless vimeo plug, by the way. ;)

Rodney V. Smith

03-14-2009, 11:27 PM

Sorry about the shameless vimeo plug, by the way. ;)

no worries: now we can cyber-stalk you more efficiently.

ZazaCast

03-14-2009, 11:28 PM

There is no shame here!
http://www.vimeo.com/1921889

:):beer::)

Rodney V. Smith

03-14-2009, 11:31 PM

And add one more to the cyber-stalking list...

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 11:53 PM

no worries: now we can cyber-stalk you more efficiently.

:( I'm scared now...

Just kidding!

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 11:54 PM

There is no shame here!
http://www.vimeo.com/1921889

:):beer::)

New contact! Awesome. :beer:

Lawsuit_Boy

03-14-2009, 11:56 PM

Anyway, I'm off to bed. Hope you enjoy the films while you're cyber stalking me!

MrKilloran

03-15-2009, 03:28 AM

And add one more to the cyber-stalking list...

Watch out Puck... that can lead to an uncomfortable date with Chris Hanson

Rodney V. Smith

03-15-2009, 08:27 AM

Watch out Puck... that can lead to an uncomfortable date with Chris Hanson

Better than an uncomfortable date with Chris Hanson in the back of a Volkswagen.

Richard J. Johnson

03-15-2009, 09:02 AM

Some of you need very expensive therapy. : )

Rodney V. Smith

03-15-2009, 09:17 AM

Some of you need very expensive therapy. : )

It's okay dude: we're here for ya. Can we have your gear while you're in therapy?

Richard J. Johnson

03-15-2009, 09:28 AM

Thanks puck. I knew you cared. And no.
: )

It's okay dude: we're here for ya. Can we have your gear while you're in therapy?

Lawsuit_Boy

03-15-2009, 10:37 AM

Thanks puck. I knew you cared. And no.
: )

Aw, rats. *snaps fingers* Worth a shot, puck.

MrKilloran

03-15-2009, 11:06 AM

Thanks puck. I knew you cared. And no.
: )

So close... yet so far.

Anthonyb

03-15-2009, 01:02 PM

Better than an uncomfortable date with Chris Hanson in the back of a Volkswagen.

I'm Chris Hansen from Dateline NBC, please take a seat. What are you doing here?

:-Laugh(DBG):

http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=164441

Rodney V. Smith

03-15-2009, 01:11 PM

I've actually enjoyed the majority of the films here. Some of them needed a little polish, but I think this time around we had a lower percentage of bad films than before. Acting is definitely improving, so you guys are either spending more time with your actors and going through the motivations, or you're hiring professionals.

I just wanted to interject that before the hilarity and cyber-stalking continues on this thread.

Norm Sanders

03-15-2009, 02:12 PM

Geez, I'm kind of blown away by this thread .... SOOO much posting about how voting SHOULD be, and/or why, etc. Even if the mods listed out EXACTLY how we should & NEED to vote, people would still deviate from it, because we have our own motivations on what moves, us, etc. Honestly, like art, there is NO right or wrong about it, so I don't know why all the discussions? Let people have their opinion, and leave it at that. :)

The system is intended for you to rate each film on its own individual merits, rather than rating them on a comparison basis of the other films in the fest.

You watch a film, and you tell that filmmaker how well you think they did on a scale of 1-10.

the rankings take care of themselves. That shouldn't be your purpose in rating the films. Think of it as an audience member giving their impression to that filmmaker.

I encourage everyone to rate the films individually, rather than comparatively. But, to each his own.

For the record though, the voting process is meant to be a rating system, not a ranking system. The rankings take care of themselves. RATE the films. Don't rank them when voting and the system will excel. It already has excelled, but we always monitor and look for improvements.

lataer,
jason

Like Jason had said ... it'll all work out in the end, whether someone rates the films in the same way as us or not. I personally can't understand how to 'rank' the films with the 10 star system, when there's only 10 stars, and over 60 films ... I just don't see that many ties happening, and it also seems like more of a headache than simply putting in your own mind what warrants a 1-10, and then rating it accordingly. In the end, the math, the averages, etc. ... all works out one way or another.

My "Cup o' Tea" equation doesn't play in to my reviewing/ranking. A good film is a good film, regardless if it is up my cinematic alley or not.

For the record -

My personal criteria is (in order):
1. Writing/Story (not only a well-spun tale, but also a complete narrative)
2. Acting
3. Direction
4. Technical/Everything Else

I'm not going to say this is right or wrong. Again, all comes down to personal taste. Believe it or not, there are some people (obviously, as filmmakers will put out films that have poor stories, etc.) that don't care so much about story & are moved more by what they SEE. Anything wrong with that? Nope, because it's what entertains THEM and moves THEM. This is exactly why some movies are blockbusters, yet in all reality the story just wasn't that great, or is 'old', etc.

Personally, I give a LOT of weight to the story as well, but I certainly will NEVER discount the technical side of it to next to nothing .... and here's why; Let's say you've got an INCREDIBLE story that's being told around the campfire ... but if that person telling it is a babbling idiot, and can't say much more than a few words without stuttering the hell out of it all over the place, takes twice as long as needed to get to the ending, and says 'Um" and 'Ah" all the time to gather there thoughts & figure out what they want to say next .... well, ya know what? I'm not going to be very impressed, and their speaking abilities would have pretty much ruined the story for me.

But, if you have NEARLY the same story that's still not QUITE as good, but the speaker is gifted at being able to swell their voice in the right spots to command your attention & move you in how they say their words, pausing at the right spots for the silence to creep in, etc. Ya know what? I'm going to LOVE that story better, simply because it was TOLD so much better, than a superior story that was told poorly.

So sure, direction plays a HUGE part of a film, to ensure that it was told well, etc., however the director is also 100% responsible for the technical stuff as well (editing, approving camera angles/movement, lighting, etc. - this is their movie, after all, and they have final say) ... so if they choose to drop the ball on some things for whatever reason, or don't have the skill to make a film look/sound better ... then it'll naturally impact people that are watching & rating it.

Again, no right or wrong, and these are all opinions (including mine, which I may get bashed for here).

When the voting is done, I'll probably reveal my top 10 but I'd prefer to not have my rankings influence anyone else one way or the other..........

I don't care how anyone else scores the films as long as it works for them. This works for me.

Amen, Blaine. I concur with NOT posting our favorites. I think it's great that people post something about a film they think is worth watching, incase it's been overlooked, etc., but for the same reason I don't want to read posts before watching a film & giving feedback, I also don't want to be influenced by people who post who their top picks are & why.

Noel Evans

03-15-2009, 02:24 PM

which I may get bashed for here

On the count of three, we all jump him together. Ready....

I kid I kid. :beer:

Lawsuit_Boy

03-15-2009, 02:34 PM

Amen, Blaine. I concur with NOT posting our favorites. I think it's great that people post something about a film they think is worth watching, incase it's been overlooked, etc., but for the same reason I don't want to read posts before watching a film & giving feedback, I also don't want to be influenced by people who post who their top picks are & why.

I feel the same way. As I've stated before, I hate making "top (insert number)" lists in general, and I don't think I would do it in a festival either. A "these are my favorites in no particular order" isn't bad. Everyone has the right to express their opinions. But ranking them before the festival is done is out of the question for me.

Norm Sanders

03-15-2009, 03:52 PM

Yeah, it almost can get to be a lobbiest situation, as if someone is trying to sway an audience to vote a certain way/direction, most especially when it then becomes a debate on why a film should or should not be a certain ranking. Save those discussions, for the actual films, in the film's respective thread, or wait until the festival is over to debate about who you thought should have won instead, not in advance on who you feel should win, possibly influencing others for one reason or another.

Lawsuit_Boy

03-15-2009, 03:59 PM

CallaghanFilms

03-15-2009, 05:03 PM

I think it is somewhat insulting to our members to say they would be influenced by (gasp) seeing which film someone else is pulling for. We are all adults here. Is this a fest? Yes, but it's also a contest. Should periodicals no longer list the picks they feel will win the Oscars ahead of time? Should I not wear my Steelers garb to the game as to not influence those who want the other team to win?

Come on guys. If you don't dig lists, don't make 'em...but some of us do and will.

:beer:

Zak Forsman

03-15-2009, 05:07 PM

amen. every fest is fueled by buzz and chatter about what rocks and what sucks. lists are part of that.

Norm Sanders

03-15-2009, 06:09 PM

I think it is somewhat insulting to our members to say they would be influenced by (gasp) seeing which film someone else is pulling for. We are all adults here.

You're kidding me, right? It's only kids that are impressionable?? Hmm, so much for advertising then! :evil:

Some people love to make lists & some people love to see them. Other people don't like to make lists, and there are those who don't care to see them. I'm just stating my personal feelings is all.

But, to say it's an insult to the members that they be influenced .... well, hogwash. If Jack Daniel Stanely, Mark, Zak, or other longtime & well respected members on here post who they think is best & why they should win in advance (because they don't just TALK about filmmaking & critiquing others but actually DELIVER the goods with their own films, winning/placing high in the fests), you actually think that a newer member who's still learning the ropes wouldn't be influenced?

I'm just a fan of letting the films speak for themselves, and having discusions that are outside of the film's respecitve thread take place AFTER the festival rankings are announced.

But, that's just me. By all means, carry on. :beer:

CallaghanFilms

03-15-2009, 06:24 PM

amen. every fest is fueled by buzz and chatter about what rocks and what sucks. lists are part of that.http://www.greensmilies.com/smile/smiley_emoticons_2thumbs.gif

MrKilloran

03-15-2009, 06:25 PM

I actually prefer to sell my 10-star ratings to the highest bidder :thumbsup:

Blaine

03-15-2009, 06:41 PM

Well, having finally finished watching everything, I find that this fest turns about to be about like all the rest for me. A few GOOD movies, a lot of AVERAGE movies and as it turns out, about the same amount of BAD movies as the other fests. Today was a tough day of watching.

Some people got better...some didn't.

I was pleasantly surprised by at least three filmmakers who made marked improvement.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-15-2009, 08:04 PM

I'm done.
If I missed commenting in your thread please let me know.

I think I got all of them.

As I said before, less BAD movies this Fest, more GOOD movies, and plenty of GREAT movies!
I still think a few movies from last Fest really blew me away in comparison. I didn't walk away with that feeling this Fest.

Overall though, a much improved Fest.
Congratulations to everyone who entered!

MAH

Rodney V. Smith

03-15-2009, 08:23 PM

I'm done.
If I missed commenting in your thread please let me know.

I think I got all of them.

MAH

Well you finally got around to mine! *grumble grumble* I'm gonna have to get you liquored up next fest to comment on mine earlier.

Michael Anthony Horrigan

03-15-2009, 08:25 PM

Well you finally got around to mine! *grumble grumble* I'm gonna have to get you liquored up next fest to comment on mine earlier.I actually did KOTL quite early. You can't get both on the first day. :laugh:

Rodney V. Smith

03-15-2009, 08:25 PM

I'm still commenting: about 15 more to go...

Rodney V. Smith

03-15-2009, 08:27 PM

I actually did KOTL quite early. You can't get both on the first day. :laugh:

Like I said: I'll have to liquor you up even more. I don;t think I'll be entering 2 entries anymore as primary filmmaker. May I can help produce and shoot someone's entry next time... imagine that: a script I didn't touch!

KTOOFRESH

03-15-2009, 08:33 PM

I think everyones movies were interesting, everyones movies were good. as far as the comments i personally have been left, i find them very contructive and helpful, so thank you to those that have left feedback. i think everyone who's entered is very creative, i just wish i would have known about dvxuser sooner :).

lawriejaffa

03-15-2009, 09:16 PM

Hey gents, hope its okay to post this, i had this masterplan to review all the films on my mic instead of typing them out. lol it was not easier, and in it i discuss in general (as i wander off on tangents) what i thought of the festival.

The basic nature of this genre has highlighted more the room for improvement among filmmakers where as the more unusual genres allowed basic storytelling to 'hide' somewhat behind 'style.' I will also recall this festival for the increased number of international entries- especially from Romania!

http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=165177

Richard J. Johnson

03-15-2009, 09:28 PM

The playing field was much more level this time around IMHO.

Next fest whatever the theme is going to be nuts. With everyone trying to outdo themselves, it should be a blast.

Blaine

03-15-2009, 09:33 PM

I think it would be great if someone really brought the WOW factor in the next fest, because that was something that was missing in this one. There were some good films in this fest but nothing that just blew me away...

TiJo

03-15-2009, 09:49 PM

I have to agree to with Blaine on this one.

Tim Joy

03-15-2009, 09:58 PM

Rodney V. Smith

03-15-2009, 10:00 PM

Blaine

03-15-2009, 10:03 PM

No promises with a the big WOW... but I promise to wow you with good sound!And I'll certainly be looking forward to it. :thumbsup:

gabrielflorit

03-15-2009, 10:09 PM

I've only been able to watch 5 from beginning to end (I'm just about halfway through). All the rest make me lose interest after the first 20-30 seconds.

orchidsofwrath

03-15-2009, 10:10 PM

I think it would be great if someone really brought the WOW factor in the next fest,

I promise to bring the "WOW that was crappy" factor next time.

Shawn Philip Nelson

03-16-2009, 01:02 AM

alex whitmer

03-16-2009, 01:15 AM

I've only been able to watch 5 from beginning to end (I'm just about halfway through). All the rest make me lose interest after the first 20-30 seconds.

Wow. 20 - 30 seconds.

I found several gems that took 40 seconds to really get going.

aw

orchidsofwrath

03-16-2009, 02:10 AM

I've only been able to watch 5 from beginning to end (I'm just about halfway through). All the rest make me lose interest after the first 20-30 seconds.

Dude why even bother? The leader is 10 seconds... So you give some films 10 seconds to grab you? Your obviously in the wrong mindset when watching these.

Imagine sitting in a theater... The Godfather starts... The scene opens with some guy talking... after the first sentance the guy sitting 2 rows up goes "GAH THIS IS SO BORING" and walks out...

Brian Parker

03-16-2009, 02:13 AM

Dude why even bother? The leader is 10 seconds... So you give some films 10 seconds to grab you? Your obviously in the wrong mindset when watching these.

Imagine sitting in a theater... The Godfather starts... The scene opens with some guy talking... after the first sentance the guy sitting 2 rows up goes "GAH THIS IS SO BORING" and walks out...

Kind of what I was thinking...:huh:

timbook2

03-16-2009, 02:19 AM

I've only been able to watch 5 from beginning to end (I'm just about halfway through). All the rest make me lose interest after the first 20-30 seconds.

I am trying to leave out negative comments as much as possible and be constructive in my criticism, If I only have negative things to say, I simply dont say anything...the above post is downright:thumbdown

Postmaster

03-16-2009, 03:16 AM

I tried to watch every one from start to end.
Thou I have to say it was not always easy.

But to give halfway decent review scrubing thru is not a propper way.
I think every entry deserves a propper review, to alow the filmmaker to rethink his strategie and develop his art.

In some cases I spoke out some mayor chritic (Model/Photographer) but even that was apreciated.

The bar for the WOW factor was set by Fat Monster at Timefest - and in my opinion it will take quite a while til someone will rival that (Where the hell is Mark anyway? Haven´t seen any comment on the entrys from him so far.)
Most of us can´t afford professional actors, equipment set and thelike, like they did.

And yes, I think the ammount of money and professionals you throw at a film reflects (in most cases) the quality (get what you pay for).

Of course there are examples of super-low-budget-shot-with-handycam shorts that are still outstanding somewhere out there and a lot of high budget films are simply crap, but having professionell actors makes day and night differences, mor than any equipment.

I found it somehow hard to rate films because of that.
Should I give a film 10 stars beause the acting was supreme, but let it loose 5 at the same time, because the actor was a pro?

Should I give a film 10 stars, despite the acting was only mediocre, but the actor was the filmmakers room mate, who never stood in front of a camera, but gave his very best?

How to rate the visual quality?
Nobody likes noisy, low res pictures - but discounting points just because the guy can´t afford a RED? Probably not, but the overall visual quality of a film get´s us biased while rating.

I caught myself liking entrys shot on RED better than others (tried not to look at the camera used in the first place). So I have to ask myself if I liked it the same if they would have shot on a DV Handycam. So discount points for using a RED?

Same goes for every other position and equipment on the set.

I found it the hardest part to take this things in consideration.

Frank

Mickey Munday

03-16-2009, 08:50 AM

i've finally watched all of them and i found it hard to make it through a majority of the films. i dont know how many of them were shot on RED, but to be honest the one(s) shot on RED actually weren't my favorite. i just downloaded the batch of mov files so i dont know what films were shot on what, unless i liked it and then went back to manually search to see what it was shot on, which was kind of cool because i went into every film with a blank slate not knowing the type of cam or anything.

i think its pretty obivious at this point which films were done well and i think everybody put forth a good effort. this stuff aint easy. for those that dont place or win, keep up your craft and keep entering contests like these and learning from your previous work. you will only get better.

Norm Sanders

03-16-2009, 10:19 AM

I am trying to leave out negative comments as much as possible and be constructive in my criticism, If I only have negative things to say, I simply dont say anything...

I think it's all in HOW you say it. To me, constructive criticism doesn't include all the compliments, because how is a filmmaker going to get 'better', when all they here is what worked for someone. At the very best, all they can do is repeat the same thing next time, or possibly take it to another level. However, if they here was DOESN'T work, those are the very things they can leave out next time, improve upon, etc. to take their entire film to another level the next time out.

So negative comments are okay, as long as they're mixed with at least SOMETHING positive about the film (because, let's face it, even finishing something in the first place can be seen as a positive)... again, it's all in the delivery, and how the comment is meant to be taken....and hopefully never comes across as anything personal.

Richard J. Johnson

03-16-2009, 11:15 AM

I think it's all in HOW you say it. To me, constructive criticism doesn't include all the compliments, because how is a filmmaker going to get 'better', when all they here is what worked for someone. At the very best, all they can do is repeat the same thing next time, or possibly take it to another level. However, if they here was DOESN'T work, those are the very things they can leave out next time, improve upon, etc. to take their entire film to another level the next time out.
.

Well said. I totally agree that it's all in how you say it. I believe that constructive criticism is the only way we can get better. Most of us here know what we did wrong and if no one points those mistakes out, We may be doomed to repeat them because we though no one noticed.

The compliments help greatly as well. No one can say they don't like getting them. But generally everyone here knows how to conduct themselves, Except maybe Rogan and Puck (:Drogar-Dum(DBG): KIDDING) and they are all really helpful.

Sprocketboy

03-16-2009, 11:17 AM

So negative comments are okay, as long as they're mixed with at least SOMETHING positive about the film (because, let's face it, even finishing something in the first place can be seen as a positive)... again, it's all in the delivery, and how the comment is meant to be taken....and hopefully never comes across as anything personal.

This is my first time leaving a variety of comments, and I felt that some of my comments could have been more tastefully done. I found myself sometimes over compensating my negative remarks with kind words. I am harder on the more polished filmmakers in this group, because I know nothing could be more rewarding than getting someone to dig deep into your film and commenting on it. I want them to make bigger and better films.

We all strive to be better at our craft. The analytical comments are appreciated, positive or negative. If you have only a couple of words to say. You might as well not post. "That's cool," or "that sucks" will not help any filmmaker. You can leave your shout out on Twitter.

Richard J. Johnson

03-16-2009, 11:19 AM

That's cool.

sorry.:)

This is my first time leaving a variety of comments, and I felt that some of my comments could have been more tastefully done. I found myself sometimes over compensating my negative remarks with kind words. I am harder on the more polished filmmakers in this group, because I know nothing could be more rewarding than getting someone to dig deep into your film and commenting on it. I want them to make bigger and better films.

We all strive to be better at our craft. The analytical comments are appreciated, positive or negative. If you have only a couple of words to say. You might as well not post. "That's cool," or "that sucks" will not help any filmmaker. You can leave your shout out on Twitter.

ZazaCast

03-16-2009, 11:20 AM

But generally everyone here knows how to conduct themselves, Except maybe Rogan and Puck.

I agree...both of these guys are troublemakers! :)

Sprocketboy

03-16-2009, 11:24 AM

That's cool.

sorry.:)

That sucks! :beer:

Rodney V. Smith

03-16-2009, 11:34 AM

I agree...both of these guys are troublemakers! :)

That sucks!

I blame Rogan. He tarnishes my ever spotless image.

Dustin R. Rogan

03-16-2009, 02:15 PM

That sucks!

I blame Rogan. He tarnishes my ever spotless image.

Thats what I'm here to do.

:D

Rogan

MrKilloran

03-16-2009, 02:49 PM

I agree...both of these guys are troublemakers! :)

Zaza clearly paid someone to have his name removed from that list.

Anthonyb

03-16-2009, 06:53 PM

I like the whole idea of people from every corner of the world watching our films, and us watching their films. It is like a sampling of the planet.... well maybe not all areas, but enough. The prizes are great too!

lawriejaffa

03-16-2009, 06:58 PM

Yeah definately the international exposure is great - and i really hope this leads to a cross pollination of ideas. It's important that we learn from each other - because there are too many differences that we take as a 'given'.

While we represent elements of our own culture/country we kind of implement them into our version of what we see as independent film (from the types of film we want to make to business practice itself.)

The divisions between national and cultural boundaries I think are something that if we could overcome and learn from each other - would result in an independent film industry as it were (or however you wish to define it) that is stronger.

Lawsuit_Boy

03-16-2009, 09:58 PM

I agree whole-heartedly with Lawrie here. The divide among nations in the film industry has always been a subtle one (or not so subtle depending on which periods and which countries we examine) since most filmmakers DO borrow from other sources of inspiration, but certainly not all. I think we should all attempt to branch out now and again. It's good for the mind in so many ways!

Personally, I was trying to achieve a few specific aesthetic points that are very much prevalent in certain types of European filmmaking in our entry this festival. I obviously drew a lot from Godard and the French New Wave in some ways, but I also feel that I've grabbed a lot from various neo-realist movements from multiple countries. I should also mention that, once again from the French New Wavey, Jean-Pierre Melville's films have had a profound effect on me (some might see some of the inspiration in Tiny Dancer if they're familiar with his work). I try to be as ecclectic as possible in the films I see and the inspiration they have on me because I feel like it will not only allow me to explore new options in film, but will allow me to appreciate more films along the way.

These are just a couple reasons why I feel it's important for some people to seek out inspiration internationally. You never know what you'll find unless you take a look. :thumbsup:

Richard J. Johnson

03-17-2009, 03:33 AM

Are you sure you are 22?:beer:

I agree whole-heartedly with Lawrie here. The divide among nations in the film industry has always been a subtle one (or not so subtle depending on which periods and which countries we examine) since most filmmakers DO borrow from other sources of inspiration, but certainly not all. I think we should all attempt to branch out now and again. It's good for the mind in so many ways!

Personally, I was trying to achieve a few specific aesthetic points that are very much prevalent in certain types of European filmmaking in our entry this festival. I obviously drew a lot from Godard and the French New Wave in some ways, but I also feel that I've grabbed a lot from various neo-realist movements from multiple countries. I should also mention that, once again from the French New Wavey, Jean-Pierre Melville's films have had a profound effect on me (some might see some of the inspiration in Tiny Dancer if they're familiar with his work). I try to be as ecclectic as possible in the films I see and the inspiration they have on me because I feel like it will not only allow me to explore new options in film, but will allow me to appreciate more films along the way.

These are just a couple reasons why I feel it's important for some people to seek out inspiration internationally. You never know what you'll find unless you take a look. :thumbsup:

ZazaCast

03-17-2009, 06:13 AM

Zaza clearly paid someone to have his name removed from that list.

LMAO! :thumbup:

Rodney V. Smith

03-17-2009, 07:01 AM

Zaza clearly paid someone to have his name removed from that list.

Zaza can;t afford to pay anyone right now: he spent all of his budget on the bobblehead doll... I think there's something much more sinister going on here.

Lawsuit_Boy

03-17-2009, 07:03 AM

Are you sure you are 22?:beer:

Hah, yes sir, I am. Will be 23 this coming October if that helps.

And Happy St. Patty's Day to everyone! Go have a pint of lager and sing songs about the good times. :beer:

MrKilloran

03-17-2009, 11:22 AM

Zaza can;t afford to pay anyone right now: he spent all of his budget on the bobblehead doll... I think there's something much more sinister going on here.

:shocked: Surely you don't mean... TELEVANGELISM!