Mercy by Troy Ruff

[Troy Ruff]

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/30869/1249281271.jpg

OK guys Im in... Im excited about this fest and I cant wait to see everyone's work. Good luck to all.

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/30869/1252878262.jpg

ok here are some screen grabs. :) Enjoy.... maybe more to come!

Here are our wonderful actors for this film. They are amazing!

[Chris_Keaton]

I can't see the poster?

[ZazaCast]

Welcome Troy... I'm looking forward to your film!

[~jai~]

here is my teaser poster

I can't see the poster either... welcome though!

[Simon Höfer]

Welcome, but no poster... you are such a tease!! :D

[Troy Ruff]

Welcome, but no poster... you are such a tease!! :D

I try my best to keep everyone guessing. :grin:

[Brian Parker]

Welcome aboard!

[Troy Ruff]

OK I got the poster up finally :)

[Rodney V. Smith]

There's the poster! Welcome in to the slaughter.

[Simon Höfer]

Looking good! Lets get it on! :evil:

[Troy Ruff]

yes lets rip!#!@# up! :kali:

[Matt Sconce]

Looking forward to it bro. I like the concept and really like the title and poster. I hope to work on this with you if I have the time away from Stricken editing. I should be able to. -Matt

[Troy Ruff]

Looking forward to it bro. I like the concept and really like the title and poster. I hope to work on this with you if I have the time away from Stricken editing. I should be able to. -Matt

Thanks man I am writing out the second one now. :) Attemting two films in one fest. Im going to need the help. :2vrolijk_08:

[Tom Marshall]

Hey Troy, welcome to the fest!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Nice poster. Welcome!

[Troy Ruff]

Thanks guys, this will be my third fest here and Im excited about this one.

[Troy Ruff]

Hey Guys Check out my new website, tell me what you think, Im still working on it thou. Its fun. Any feed back for corrections is whated, ideas are always good. :)

[sfoster]

Woooohooooo Troy can't wait to do these! Especially the other one! It's going to be extremely . . .

***Not gonna tell everyone here, that would spoil it! ***

[Troy Ruff]

Woooohooooo Troy can't wait to do these! Especially the other one! It's going to be extremely . . .

***Not gonna tell everyone here, that would spoil it! ***

Thanks man for not spoiling, :thumbsup: I would hope to have both shot by the need of next month. :D

[Alan H. Chang]

Fresno location right? sigh..

Wished I was ... closer

[Troy Ruff]

Fresno location right? sigh..

Wished I was ... closer

yep! ahhh you can come over help if you want. :D How far are you? Its going to be a good, we are shooting two films for this fest. I have not released the name of the other yes :)

[Alan H. Chang]

yep! ahhh you can come over help if you want. :D How far are you? Its going to be a good, we are shooting two films for this fest. I have not released the name of the other yes :)

approx. 200 miles. In San Fran. Making a MONSTER drive to film a MONSTER movie.

[Troy Ruff]

approx. 200 miles. In San Fran. Making a MONSTER drive to film a MONSTER movie.

wow that is far. Well go make your amazing monster film. Thanks for the thought anyways. :)

[Troy Ruff]

Test

[Alan H. Chang]

wow that is far. Well go make your amazing monster film. Thanks for the thought anyways. :)

Yeah, just saying that the drive is a MONSTER. Not making any films though.

[Troy Ruff]

Yeah, just saying that the drive is a MONSTER. Not making any films though.

yeah, it is a monster of a drive. Maybe next time. Or rather I come to SF, much better place to film. Fresno not so much.

[Alan H. Chang]

yeah, it is a monster of a drive. Maybe next time. Or rather I come to SF, much better place to film. Fresno not so much.

I like the weather of Fresno, not too hot nor cold.

[Matt Sconce]

Exciting news lurking in this dark corner. I will let Troy enlighten you. He has asked me to AD and I have accepted the honored position. I love working with this guy! The good news is in the casting department. -Matt

[Troy Ruff]

Exciting news lurking in this dark corner. I will let Troy enlighten you. He has asked me to AD and I have accepted the honored position. I love working with this guy! The good news is in the casting department. -Matt

YES! We got Max Taylor :) great cast for this film.

[Matt Sconce]

Max was one of the leads in the movie "Finding Hope Now" just shot in Fresno.

[Alan H. Chang]

Just hit me, that poster looks so similar to the one with the joker from The Dark Knight.

[Troy Ruff]

really I dont remember that? Ill have to look it up. I guess great minds think alike.

[Troy Ruff]

I have good news, Im now using the Red for this film. :)

[Brandon Rice]

Red rocks! :) looking forward to it!

[ZazaCast]

I'm sure it'll be great no matter what camera you use! Can't wait to see what you're up to.

[Troy Ruff]

I'm sure it'll be great no matter what camera you use! Can't wait to see what you're up to.

Hey thanks for the confidence. I hope it comes out the way I want. In fact it will, its going to be better than what I hope! :kali: ahahaha

[ZazaCast]

That's the spirit!

[Troy Ruff]

So I had my Auditions for Mercy tonight, It went great! Now I have to review the footage and make some decisions. Its all coming together nicely. :) I cant wait to shoot on the 20th.

[Matt Sconce]

Location Secured and prepping it Thursday! The shoot is coming up on the 20th. The script is intense and the actors are great. The director, Troy, is pretty good too....:grin: He is AWESOME! -Matt

[Troy Ruff]

Location Secured and prepping it Thursday! The shoot is coming up on the 20th. The script is intense and the actors are great. The director, Troy, is pretty good too....:grin: He is AWESOME! -Matt

Ok, we are going to our location tomorrow to start setting up the scene. :)

[sfoster]

WOW Amazing locations. I can't wait to light this. It's almost perfect. All we need is, um. . . hmm. . . nope it's perfect!

[Troy Ruff]

WOW Amazing locations. I can't wait to light this. It's almost perfect. All we need is, um. . . hmm. . . nope it's perfect!
Yes perfect, we can build, destroy, water down, and no one cares. :) its perfect!

[sfoster]

WOOHOO I love destruction!

[Troy Ruff]

Hey i finally got my Actors up. We are shooting this next sunday. Im getting really excited. Ill let you guys know how it goes.

[sfoster]

Are you excited Troy? We're shooting day after tomorrow!

[Troy Ruff]

Are you excited Troy? We're shooting day after tomorrow!

Now we are shooting tomorrow! hell yeah Im excited! Its going to be amazing.

[Troy Ruff]

ok today is the day! We start filming in a couple of hours, im off to the set now. Its going to be a fantastic day. :)

[Christian Halberg]

Great luck filming!
:)

[Matt Sconce]

Whoah. Mercy's shoot kicked my butt. A very tiring, very productive, very amazing shoot! Good job to all and especially Troy for some great directing and writing!

[Troy Ruff]

Thanks man, it was tiring, but man every shot was amazing! I defentlly could not have done this with out the help of my great crew. Matthew Sconce as my AD, kept me going and focused, you did an amazing job in helping me. Also Shane foster for his great lighting, oh well everyone did such an amazing job! I could have not asked for a better crew. Thanks a lot everyone. :)

[Troy Ruff]

Grabs coming soon... :)

[Gary Sconce]

I am sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooo tired.
Troy, you did such a great job directing. I was so glad to be a part of this effort. It was spectacular.

Matt, you were a rock all night long. What stamina. For those who don't know, Matt and I were helping blackbelts in a 7th degree master test in LA on Saturday, and then shot Mercy with Troy all sunday until morning's first light. Uuuuuugh.

We're, in pain, tired and HAAAAAPPPPPPPPPPPYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!

I can't wait to see that acting in the edited form. Man! :grin:

(I had to drive straight to work... boo.) :zombie_smiley:

[sfoster]

Thanks, I had another amazing time making a great film. It was funny because after about 12 hours of shooting, I looked at the clock and said "Is that right? It only feels like it's been a couple hours." Of course, I was pretty tired around 4am! Now to get ready for my film!!! *NO REST FOR THE DVXERS!*

[Matt Sconce]

Must....Have....Screenshots!!!!!!!!

[Troy Ruff]

ahh, Im trying to get some screenshots... but Im having problems with my final cut, so i am upgrading right now to 7.0 :) It will finish installing soon. Then they will come.

[Matt Sconce]

ahh, Im trying to get some screenshots... but Im having problems with my final cut, so i am upgrading right now to 7.0 :) It will finish installing soon. Then they will come.
Great! E-mail me the secret ones too...hehehe:beer:

[Matt Sconce]

ahh...Im having problems with my final cut...
You know what solves that? A PC...:grin:

[Rodney V. Smith]

You know what solves that? A PC...:grin:

zing!

[Rodney V. Smith]

Screenshots yet? Anything? Come on you guys! Give us a fix already!

[Troy Ruff]

lol Ive been working all day, I get off at 6pm, look for them after that! They are coming!

[Matt Sconce]

lol Ive been working all day, I get off at 6pm, look for them after that! They are coming!

Working Shmerking...Screengrabs NOW! j/k hehe:beer:

[Gary Sconce]

There must have been 102,567,464.6 pics shot during the shoot too.

Can't wait to see some of the stuff.

Troy, imagine the gang bangers re-entering the place where we shot... What they will think! Wish I was a bug on the wall for the discussion that will follow... 'noticing things' (Hehehehehehehehe!) :kali:

Freaking them out is fun. :grin:

I put all my stuff back into storage today and unloaded the grip-mobile. It took 2 hours.

I need: A 2 ton box grip truck with a ramp or hoist (preferably a Chevy with a bad motor, as I have a rebuilt 450hp motor waiting) pre- 1975. Then I could just park it and leave it until the next shoot, and in California it would be exempt from stupid smog regulations and engine limitations.

[Matt Sconce]

Troy, imagine the gang bangers re-entering the place where we shot... What they will think! Wish I was a bug on the wall for the discussion that will follow... 'noticing things' (Hehehehehehehehe!) :kali:

Freaking them out is fun. :grin:




Whoah...that is so true....They are going to Freak OUT!:grin:

[Troy Ruff]

Whoah...that is so true....They are going to Freak OUT!:grin:

Yes I think everyone will freak. They will be up in a couple of hours. :)

[Alan H. Chang]

can't wait to see some stuff.

[Troy Ruff]

OK guys here are some screen shots, enjoy... wait till you see the movie. :) maybe more coming later.

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/30869/1253676302.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/30869/1253676337.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/30869/1253676363.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/30869/1253676396.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/30869/1253676421.jpg

[Rodney V. Smith]

dude those are fucking awesome! NICE! Now I'm excited.

[Christian Vincent Jung]

Cheerful! ;)
Good work!

[Matt Sconce]

OK guys here are some screen shots, enjoy... wait till you see the movie. :) maybe more coming later.




Yeah! Those look great! I am excited to see the finished flick and am also excited to be involved in the post process. From the time I read the script, I knew this would be great. -Matt

[Alan H. Chang]

That's it! Next time, I'm coming over.

[Troy Ruff]

That's it! Next time, I'm coming over.

ya it would have been great to have you! Next time ;) :thumbup:

[Marlon Ladd]

Man, those grabs are excellent! The deadline can't get here fast enough. I'm ready to see some of these right now!

[Troy Ruff]

Man, those grabs are excellent! The deadline can't get here fast enough. I'm ready to see some of these right now!

Thanks, and I know I cant wait to see everyone else's films as well. Its going to be good.:grin:

[Troy Ruff]

ya it would be fun to be a fly on the wall to see gang bangers reactions to what happened in that room. :grin: And you should fix up a 2 tons rig for all your stuff. It would make it alot easier on you. Thanks again Gary for all your hard work, I know you had to go straight to work after that... man that is tuff. Ill see ya soon.


There must have been 102,567,464.6 pics shot during the shoot too.

Can't wait to see some of the stuff.

Troy, imagine the gang bangers re-entering the place where we shot... What they will think! Wish I was a bug on the wall for the discussion that will follow... 'noticing things' (Hehehehehehehehe!) :kali:

Freaking them out is fun. :grin:

I put all my stuff back into storage today and unloaded the grip-mobile. It took 2 hours.

I need: A 2 ton box grip truck with a ramp or hoist (preferably a Chevy with a bad motor, as I have a rebuilt 450hp motor waiting) pre- 1975. Then I could just park it and leave it until the next shoot, and in California it would be exempt from stupid smog regulations and engine limitations.

[Troy Ruff]

Im almost done with the first cut of the movie. :)

[Rodney V. Smith]

Im almost done with the first cut of the movie. :)

Oh jealousy is sparked here. Well I'm almost done with my storyboards, so there.

Is the rest of the movie looking as kick ass as what the screenshots are telling us?

[Matt Sconce]

Is the rest of the movie looking as kick ass as what the screenshots are telling us?

HOLY CRAP! I just watched the footage through and it is freakin awesome. Intense and awesome!

[Rodney V. Smith]

envy. pure envy. :P

[Troy Ruff]

envy. pure envy. :P

It is nice being at the editing stage, but just think you get the pleasure of shooting a film really soon! :) it is looking pretty fantastic though :thumbup: :)

[Rodney V. Smith]

This is actually the point where my ulcers flare uo, so I can't wait til we actually start shooting and everything is in place. So many variables. to work through. THis is also usually the time I start smoking again, but that's not gonna happen this time.l

[Matt Sconce]

It appears the rough cut will be done in a day or two. This is a fast, intense piece that I am quite proud to be a part of. I am excited for you all to get to see it. Great job Troy! Now get editing! -Matt

[Troy Ruff]

This is actually the point where my ulcers flare uo, so I can't wait til we actually start shooting and everything is in place. So many variables. to work through. THis is also usually the time I start smoking again, but that's not gonna happen this time.l


AHHH ulcers suck, I get those too when Im stressed. Well now that Im done filming mine has calmed down. Yours will very soon.

[Troy Ruff]

YEAH!!! ROUGH CUT IS DONE! :) Now time to go back through it again. :)

[Matt Sconce]

YEAH!!! ROUGH CUT IS DONE! :) Now time to go back through it again. :)

Show me NOW! haha...If you want me to take a look at any point, let me know. :beer:

[Troy Ruff]

Show me NOW! haha...If you want me to take a look at any point, let me know. :beer:

your suggestion are alway welcome. You should stop by and see. :)

[Matt Sconce]

What time will you be home for lunch? I will take my lunch at the same time. I would LOVE to see it.

[Troy Ruff]

What time will you be home for lunch? I will take my lunch at the same time. I would LOVE to see it.

from 1 to 2 is my lunch. see ya then

[Matt Sconce]

Rock on!

[Matt Sconce]

Just watched the rough cut. It is looking good Troy! :beer:

[Troy Ruff]

Almost done with my second pass through the cut! :)

[Matt Sconce]

Congrats dude

[Matt Sconce]

How is it going Troy? Hope the second cut went well! :) -Matt

[sfoster]

Hey don't forget about my film! Remember we were supposed to go over storyboards today! DP!

[Troy Ruff]

yes I know I will see you soon.

[Marlon Ladd]

Sounds like you're doin' the dang thing! Good job, man. October 31st seems so far away.

[sfoster]

Sounds like you're doin' the dang thing! Good job, man. October 31st seems so far away.

No it seems like it's next weekend! I'm dying!!! But that happens when you schedule your shoot the first weekend in Oct!

Oh well, At least Troy wont be stressed on my shoot! He's going to have his film locked by the end of the week!

[Troy Ruff]

Hell yeah I will ! :) But I will be thinking nothing but your film when Im on your set. It's going to be awesome.

[sfoster]

Sprinklers suck!

[Rodney V. Smith]

Sprinklers suck!

okay i 'll bite: what happened?

[sfoster]

It was a cold dark night, the wind was blowing through the leaves of the trees as the actors walked up to the set. The lights were in place and the actors lines had been memorized. The camera was rolling and just as the director was about to yell action a slight noise arose from the blackness. The AD yelled quiet please, but the sound continued. What could this noise be? Then from afar out of nowhere, (continued on the Cheaters thread)

[Troy Ruff]

It was a cold dark night, the wind was blowing through the leaves of the trees as the actors walked up to the set. The lights were in place and the actors lines had been memorized. The camera was rolling and just as the director was about to yell action a slight noise arose from the blackness. The AD yelled quiet please, but the sound continued. What could this noise be? Then from afar out of nowhere, (continued on the Cheaters thread)

hahaha nice touch. Ill listen in, its a fun story.

[Gary Sconce]

LOL! You guys are funny! :engel017:

[EditPhish]

I really dig your poster and the screen grabs look great... Good luck with all that's left! I'm excited to see your finished product!

[Troy Ruff]

I really dig your poster and the screen grabs look great... Good luck with all that's left! I'm excited to see your finished product!

Thanks! I really like your poster as well, its a fun camp like monster story. I like the claw in the tint. The finish product will be nice and ill be glad to be done. :) Such long hours and my wife wants me back. :happy:

[EditPhish]

Thanks! I really like your poster as well, its a fun camp like monster story. I like the claw in the tint. The finish product will be nice and ill be glad to be done. :) Such long hours and my wife wants me back. :happy:

Thanks!
It is a lot of work, but I *am* the wife in our team, LOL! -- JTyner and I are married ;)... he likes to direct and do scoring/sound and I like to edit and do the computer stuff , but we often switch it up too.

[Troy Ruff]

Thanks!
It is a lot of work, but I *am* the wife in our team, LOL! -- JTyner and I are married ;)... he likes to direct and do scoring/sound and I like to edit and do the computer stuff , but we often switch it up too.

oh sweet! that would be so nice, being both involved, then everybody understands the late hours and never sleeping. I wish, but I still have an amazing wife that buts up with my late hours and crazy antics. :cheesy:

[Troy Ruff]

Final Cut Done! :) Im sending the cut to Justin Durban on monday. I cant wait to hear it! :) Everything is looking great!

[sfoster]

Woohoo! isn't it great our wives put up with us! WOOHOO! I'm a bit jealous that your final cut is done. :undecided

[Matt Sconce]

Stricken is jealous too. It just went to the corner and pouted.

[Troy Ruff]

ahaha its nice getting things done early but I still have tons of work to do. And Stricken is looking amazing, I cant wait for the final cut!

[Matt Sconce]

How goes the post production Troy?

[Troy Ruff]

How goes the post production Troy?

I have sent off my film to Justin Durban to be scored! :) and Audio to Clayton to fix audio. Im in the middle of color correcting everything and doing FX for sound and clips. whoooo wheeee im so busy plus working full time at apple. :) Life is great!

[Marlon Ladd]

Man, you work at Apple?? That's so cool. Sounds like you're makin' excellent progress over there.

[Troy Ruff]

ya its a fun job, and I want to be done with everything by next weekend. :) Things are going great

[Marlon Ladd]

Cool!

[sfoster]

Definitely jealous that you are done with your film. Now come help me edit mine! I definitely don't enjoy the editing. Although, I may have an editing gig for us. OH and I now know the stunt drivers who can pull off your feature! We're about to shoot an amazing series of stunts today, and shot amazing stuff yesterday including a never before done or attempted stunt! We lit people on fire and more! We might, if your interested, get to edit it!!! But I HAVE TO FINISH MY FILM FIRST!!!!!

[Troy Ruff]

yes, more editing ! I cant wait :nads:

[Sprocketboy]

How could've I missed this thread? Thanks for posting on mine so I can find you. The stills are beautiful. Nice job. The actors look intense.

[Troy Ruff]

How could've I missed this thread? Thanks for posting on mine so I can find you. The stills are beautiful. Nice job. The actors look intense.

Thanks, this film is deffently intense. I cant wait to see yours as well, It looks like there are so many good films this round. I love it! :grin:

[Chris_Keaton]

This fest will rock!! Not that the others containing bobble-heads or yeti didn't! I just like monsters. :thumbup:

[Nitsuj]

The stills look good. Can't wait to see it.

[Troy Ruff]

Got the Score in last night from Justin Durban, and it is rocken! I Cant wait to have it all together, which should be in the next couple of days. Thanks again Justin

[Matt Sconce]

Got the Score in last night from Justin Durban, and it is rocken! ...

Of course it is! Look up rocken in the dictionary and you will see Justin Durban...kinda like Chuck Norris but for music...:Drogar-Angry(DBG):

[Troy Ruff]

Here are some more BTS's Enjoy :)

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/30869/1256190286.jpg

Dang it I have to many pics up! i have to delete before I upload any more.... so more to come soon.

[Troy Ruff]

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b248/ohshme111/th_aliensong1.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/albums/b248/ohshme111/?action=view&current=aliensong1.flv)

This is funny

[Rodney V. Smith]

I'm traumatized now. :grin:. Just had to share eh?

Did you get the score in yet with your soundmix? That's one part that I'm not looking forward to too much: the mixing.

[Troy Ruff]

I'm traumatized now. :grin:. Just had to share eh?

Did you get the score in yet with your soundmix? That's one part that I'm not looking forward to too much: the mixing.

yes it is traumatizing... :) yeap I got my score and sound mix almost done. Im so glad I have a sound guy that is doing soundfx for me, and Justin Durban doing my score. Its amazing.

[sfoster]

Yes, that should free you up to come color correct mine right! :)

[AJ Brooks]

Love the grabs and the poster!

[TMerry]

Just took a break and saw the grabs, Sweet!!

[Troy Ruff]

Thanks guys! I cant wait to see everyone elses films. :)

[Troy Ruff]

well today is my last day of editing! Ill be submitting tonight or tomorrow morning. The end is here, :)

[Charli]

Good luck on those finishing touches!

[EditPhish]

Congrats Troy! Looking forward to seeing it!

[Om Nom Nom]

Wow, I'm diggin' the grabs. Curious to see the finished product!

[Matt Sconce]

From what I've seen, it is turning out great. I am excited for Troy to unleash it upon the DVX world.

[Matt Sconce]

Hey Troy, Are you going to check that vid out on a different monitor before sending it to this fabulous place? I am available tonight, tomorrow night and of course Friday. Can't wait to see it! Bring an uncompressed version or 1280 by 720 23.976 Blu Ray MPEG2 and I will and I will put it on Blu Ray for ya and we can watch it on my TV :thumbsup:-Matt

[Troy Ruff]

Hey Troy, Are you going to check that vid out on a different monitor before sending it to this fabulous place? I am available tonight, tomorrow night and of course Friday. Can't wait to see it! Bring an uncompressed version or 1280 by 720 23.976 Blu Ray MPEG2 and I will and I will put it on Blu Ray for ya and we can watch it on my TV :thumbsup:-Matt

sweet sounds like a plan. I am burning a dic now to watch on my tv. But Ill wiil bring a uncompressed file to put on blueray. Sweet Ill call you when I get off work at 6pm.

[Matt Sconce]

Sounds good! I am excited to see it in all it's glory. How did the CC work out?

[Troy Ruff]

ok I just submitted the film! All done! man I am excited to see everyone else's films, and its great to be done. :)

[Matt Harris]

these are some of the best screen grabs i've seen yet. i love the lightning. im jealous.

[cinealma]

Awesome, Troy. It's nice to sit back and relax a bit, ain't it.

Looking forward to your film.

[Troy Ruff]

Thanks guys, It is nice to be able to relax now, I know my wife will enjoy having me back. :)

[hoz]

love the grabs ! looking forward to seeing your flick.

[Troy Ruff]

love the grabs ! looking forward to seeing your flick.

thanks man! We should be viewing them now! Whats the hold up !!!!!! :)

[EditPhish]

The FIRST movie I watched that made me proclaim "EXCELLENT" as soon as it was over. Everything was great about it... acting was good, it looked AMAZING, the soundtrack was perfect and really brought you through the story. I didn't guess the girl had turned into a monster until JUST before she did...

Your lighting and color were simply superb. The ONLY reason you didn't get a top top score from me was because there were a couple of others films with more actual monster work.

Awesome awesome job... loved it. Nothing but thumbs up from me!

[MrFluffy]

Unlike EditPhish I dont think you should judge a movie based on what other movies do. This is an excellent movie, I could not find anything to fault in it. Outstanding.

[sfoster]

these are some of the best screen grabs i've seen yet. i love the lightning. im jealous.
And to think, our lighting kit only cost about $300 for everything we used!

[dust'n the callipygous]

lighting, sound, acting, and overall production value were all top notch. not the most original story, but still very good all around.

[Troy Ruff]

The FIRST movie I watched that made me proclaim "EXCELLENT" as soon as it was over. Everything was great about it... acting was good, it looked AMAZING, the soundtrack was perfect and really brought you through the story. I didn't guess the girl had turned into a monster until JUST before she did...

Your lighting and color were simply superb. The ONLY reason you didn't get a top top score from me was because there were a couple of others films with more actual monster work.

Awesome awesome job... loved it. Nothing but thumbs up from me!

wow thanks man, I still trying to download all the films, my system is having a hard time downloading? But Ill get to see everyones soon. I cant wait. Thank you for all the positive feedback.

[sfoster]

I've got them all troy if you want to come over and watch on my projector!

[Marlon Ladd]

Excellent film, Troy. I liked the story, location and lighting. Everything looked good and sounded good as well. Of course the score was good as well. One thing I noticed right away (which is an easy fix) was the lack of sound when the brother was chained against the wall. The whole time he fights and screams as hard as he does, we never hear the chains rattle. That's a small thing, but adding that sound in that scene would really help, I think. Now, if there is some there and I missed it, then my bad. I thought the fx on the gunshot was good, but there was something about it that seemed a little off. Not sure. Maybe the sound wasn't loud enough. I'll have to go back and watch.

Anyway, the camera is amazing and your shots were excellent. Nice!!

[kennethhurd]

I've been looking forward to this one since reading the script in the Scriptfest, and you didn't disappoint. I loved how you started the film off by establishing the chaos through the opening sequence. The editing was top notch.

I thought, for the most part, the performances were good, but could have been improved upon just a bit. I think that if you cut to another person's reaction a bit sooner, it would really help.

I also loved the camera work. I loved how you revealed Kiera's bite and how you kept her in the shadows before she attacks. That was an excellent choice.

[Denis Haineault]

This was just great. Great acting all around. I thought Ford Taylor was very believable/natural, especially when they're arguing near the beginning...very talented actor. Overall lighting/sound/music/camerawork are very impressive.

There was really just one thing that caught my attention: when the brother gets shot, it looks like he sat back down neatly to his original position, as opposed to having collapsed on the floor. Not a big deal, but it was enough to notice it.

Overall, this is top notch work. I've watched 1/2 of the fest and this one is definitely in my top 3...maybe even my favorite.

cheers guys!

[Charli]

I understand the distress that it would be to have to shoot your brother so you came in late enough for in the story for us to want to find out what happened, good job on that.

There were several continuity problems with the brother on his knees and then on one knee, with the girl on her knees and was squating moments before, and I am not too fond of seeing a man's white underwear. I would have had him tuck his shirt down.

It was like watching a plumber to repairs underneath my sink.

I did see the ending before it happened, so instead of the girl going zombie, I would have chosen the brother who had to shoot his brother and that had gone after the girl.

There was a lot of tension but it might have been a little over the top.

[Troy Ruff]

thanks everyone for your feedback I will be commenting shortly, my computer is acting stupid and wont download the files. :( Ive seem some thanks to shane, I went over to his house and watched over half of them. So ill finish up and write all me reviews. :) Everyone's feedback helps so much to grow as a film maker. Thanks again :)

[Troy Ruff]

I understand the distress that it would be to have to shoot your brother so you came in late enough for in the story for us to want to find out what happened, good job on that.

There were several continuity problems with the brother on his knees and then on one knee, with the girl on her knees and was squating moments before, and I am not too fond of seeing a man's white underwear. I would have had him tuck his shirt down.

It was like watching a plumber to repairs underneath my sink.

I did see the ending before it happened, so instead of the girl going zombie, I would have chosen the brother who had to shoot his brother and that had gone after the girl.

There was a lot of tension but it might have been a little over the top.

why are you so focused on his underwear? But I thank you for your feedback, I hope you enjoyed it, yes it has some flaws with how he was sitting and if you want to split hairs thats ok, someone has to.... but please let yourself enjoy the story. Thanks again :)

[Chris_Keaton]

This worked better for me as shot than it did on paper. Most of the problems remain, but visually you can forgive a lot. If that makes sense. Good Job.

[mobiledeli]

a pretty much perfect film.

it had a very clear beginning middle end, suspense drama makeup. the acting was good, really good. I really enjoyed the location. Nothing beats a film shot in one room (except for the car stuff - was the car moving?)

really good work.

[Charli]

Troy - because the underwear was "white" which made it stand out and distracting, had it been black I probably would not have noticed in the shadows.

[Troy Ruff]

a pretty much perfect film.

it had a very clear beginning middle end, suspense drama makeup. the acting was good, really good. I really enjoyed the location. Nothing beats a film shot in one room (except for the car stuff - was the car moving?)

really good work.

Thanks, no the car was not moving, all static, this film was really fun to make. :2vrolijk_08:

[Troy Ruff]

This worked better for me as shot than it did on paper. Most of the problems remain, but visually you can forgive a lot. If that makes sense. Good Job.

Sorry man, I don't really know what you mean? but thanks for the feedback. :cheesy:

[Matt Sconce]

Troy, my friend. Congrats on the reviews so far. It was an honor making this with you and I am stoked it is going well.

[NOBELO]

This worked better for me as shot than it did on paper. Most of the problems remain, but visually you can forgive a lot. If that makes sense. Good Job.

?

I don't get it.

[Troy Ruff]

?

I don't get it.

lol me either?

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Good work, guys. I could see the ending coming here but hey, it was still a fun ride so that's all that matters.
Some of the effects were also quite good. Great shot near the end as well. I won't spoil it though.

My only nitpick would be to cut down the brothers screaming and such just a tad.

Great stuff, boys.

MAH

[ZazaCast]

Sweet! Really nice job on this film Troy. I REALLY liked the cinematography and all the camera moves. I don't know why, by the final shot as you pull out of the building and across the side...brillant!

Good story if not a bit predictable that was well written and acted. If anything, the chained-up bro was just a bit over the top for me (and got a chukle from my 16 year old daughter). Nice work on the VFX shots.

All in all this was a very enjoyable film and fits nicely in my personal top 10!
Congratulation.

[sfoster]

If anything, the chained-up bro was just a bit over the top for me (and got a chukle from my 16 year old daughter).

This is how I feel about most "Scary" films. It's really hard in the short format to get people into the story enough for the monsters to actually be scary. To me this has been a comedy fest, but then, I haven't seen a movie that scared me since I was 10!

[Matty_g]

I'm going to be picky here because this film is good enough not to warrant a general response.

I do think the zombie brothers reactions are over the top. Also, in no way does he look related to the main character.

Your wide shots fell pretty flat for me composition wise. I also feel like your lighting on the brick wall was too broad and not up to par with the lighting on the people away from the wall.

One thing that bugged me A LOT was the OTS on the two leads. Its over the zombie brothers shoulder and he's up against a wall. In no way could you get a camera there. That cheat just didn't work for me.

The title sequence and building effects i wasn't very fond of either. The flashbacks totally brought me out of this beautiful tension you were building. I don't think they're needed. they don't explain anything that i didn't already get from your short.

It is a simple well told story (One thing that i wish more people would do in these fests). Good performances from your leads. Overall good camerawork. Great tension. Good gunshot effect. One of the top shorts in this fest.

[Chris_Keaton]

Sorry man, I don't really know what you mean? but thanks for the feedback. :cheesy:

I meant it looked good and the performances worked for me, so I'll forgive the fact that the story isn't the strongest, but I be damned if it isn't freakin nearly impossible to tell a great monster story in 6 minutes.

[Troy Ruff]

I meant it looked good and the performances worked for me, so I'll forgive the fact that the story isn't the strongest, but I be damned if it isn't freakin nearly impossible to tell a great monster story in 6 minutes.

oh i see, cool, I agree it is pretty hard to tell a good story and have the character emotional attachments all in 6mins. Thank you for your feedback, it helps me grow as a film maker. I relize the story is predictable but I really like the emotion between the brothers and just taking a look at a situation like this and how we would react. Thanks everyone, please continue to give feedback good or bad. :)

[Sprocketboy]

Is Keaton giving you a hard time? You have to love him. He doesn't hold back the punches. :cheesy:

I like the whole setup with the two brothers and the girl. At one point when the chained brother lunged at the camera I thought he was going to transform into a werewolf. It looked great! You never know what someone might come up with... a living dead werewolf? The brother with the gun looked great, but the tone of his voice was not right. It didn't work for me. Everything else is top notch including the creepy pull-away at the end.

[Rodney V. Smith]

You had me worried from your still shots man and even watching the movie, my initial thoughts went along the lines of
A) he's a werewolf
B) he's some other kind of monster
C) damn it would suck if he were a werewolf... because then how the hell did you get your hands on my script?
D) damn you for stealing my script
E) Phew! He's a zombie! Chill Pill in effect.

That said I was finally able to watch and enjoy the movie. A couple of continuity flubs here and there with the positioning of the actors from shot to shot, but nothing too glaring (excet for the white underwear which I hadn't even seen until someone un-named pointed it out). This went directly into my favorites queue but I kind of expected that. I'm just glad I was vindicated and you delivered so well.

Nice touch on the ending. i certainly didn;t see that coming. The situation with the brothers was bad enough to carry the film. It's good to see the humanity side of the zombie situation. The ending just put a nice cap on it all.

Top 10 for sure. Thanks for the excellent showing.

[NOBELO]

Hey Troy,
I was watching the films with my friends and they aren't involved with film making at all and they really enjoyed this. I figured I'd pass that a long because sometimes it's a lot harder to get approval from people who aren't involved in film making because they don't know what goes into it. I enjoyed it as well and I thought your location was great, acting was good, lighting was good etc. This had a lot of the elements that make a solid short film. The story was easy to understand and well delivered. I think the brother's transformation was a little bit too long but it was a minor issue. Thanks for sharing, hats off to everyone involved.

[Troy Ruff]

I'm going to be picky here because this film is good enough not to warrant a general response.

I do think the zombie brothers reactions are over the top. Also, in no way does he look related to the main character.

Your wide shots fell pretty flat for me composition wise. I also feel like your lighting on the brick wall was too broad and not up to par with the lighting on the people away from the wall.

One thing that bugged me A LOT was the OTS on the two leads. Its over the zombie brothers shoulder and he's up against a wall. In no way could you get a camera there. That cheat just didn't work for me.

The title sequence and building effects i wasn't very fond of either. The flashbacks totally brought me out of this beautiful tension you were building. I don't think they're needed. they don't explain anything that i didn't already get from your short.

It is a simple well told story (One thing that i wish more people would do in these fests). Good performances from your leads. Overall good camerawork. Great tension. Good gunshot effect. One of the top shorts in this fest.


Man thanks for the feedback! I checked out your site, you have amazing stuff. I actually have another scene in mind for after the gun shot, to show the life and the two brothers together in good times. But that will be for AOF( Action on Film) in LA. I think it will help slow things down right after the gun shot. Every review helps me become a better film maker, so thanks for your feed back. :)

[Troy Ruff]

You had me worried from your still shots man and even watching the movie, my initial thoughts went along the lines of
A) he's a werewolf
B) he's some other kind of monster
C) damn it would suck if he were a werewolf... because then how the hell did you get your hands on my script?
D) damn you for stealing my script
E) Phew! He's a zombie! Chill Pill in effect.

That said I was finally able to watch and enjoy the movie. A couple of continuity flubs here and there with the positioning of the actors from shot to shot, but nothing too glaring (excet for the white underwear which I hadn't even seen until someone un-named pointed it out). This went directly into my favorites queue but I kind of expected that. I'm just glad I was vindicated and you delivered so well.

Nice touch on the ending. i certainly didn;t see that coming. The situation with the brothers was bad enough to carry the film. It's good to see the humanity side of the zombie situation. The ending just put a nice cap on it all.

Top 10 for sure. Thanks for the excellent showing.


Sweet Im glad your guys liked it. I love zombies, I had to go with them. :)

[Rodney V. Smith]

Sweet Im glad your guys liked it. I love zombies, I had to go with them. :)

Glad you went the zombie route. That was a great location for it too. Where did you find that location anyway? It gives it the right grit and space needed for a piece like this.

[Troy Ruff]

Hey Troy,
I was watching the films with my friends and they aren't involved with film making at all and they really enjoyed this. I figured I'd pass that a long because sometimes it's a lot harder to get approval from people who aren't involved in film making because they don't know what goes into it. I enjoyed it as well and I thought your location was great, acting was good, lighting was good etc. This had a lot of the elements that make a solid short film. The story was easy to understand and well delivered. I think the brother's transformation was a little bit too long but it was a minor issue. Thanks for sharing, hats off to everyone involved.

Sweet!!! thats great news, I love showing my stuff to people who are not in to film to see how they react. Because they will not be as critical and just let their emotions go with it. It seems really genuine. Thanks for letting me know . Im glad your enjoyed it. :2vrolijk_08:

[ramsaur]

This was pretty interesting but cool. Everything seemed to be on track. The only thing that stood in my way was in the middle of the film when his brother was turning into zombie; when he was yelling and screaming. I feel the music could have been more abrupt and intense there. It was to low and it didn't give me an emotion feel that he was turning into a zombie that could have been there with the music. Great location and Kiera at the end was terrifying! I liked this one!

[sfoster]

Our awesome film commissioner Ray Arthur in Fresno showed Troy that site. It's so cool shooting in Fresno. . . Well not in the summer, it's hotter than this: :violent5: But everything is free here! Free locations, free permit, they basically told us we have the abandoned building to ourselves! Food is the main cost on these films here because we have so many passionate filmmakers that donate their time and equipment to make the next great film!

[Rodney V. Smith]

Well damn: looks like I'll be moving to Fresno for a bit. :grin: Good to have a city so accessible to filmmakers.

[Troy Ruff]

Glad you went the zombie route. That was a great location for it too. Where did you find that location anyway? It gives it the right grit and space needed for a piece like this.

Yes ray ( our film commissioner ) is fantastic! he will find any city owned location that fits our needs and will let us film there for freeeeeee!!!!! He is amazing. Not to mention free permits so we dont get kicked out of anywhere. :) It would be great if you wanted to come up and do a film together, I love having dvxuser come up for films. We had a couple of guys come up and help on the feature Stricken that will be finishing up in post this January. :) always fun, I cant wait for the next film, I have two more no three more no four more in mind. :) ok Im going to stop rambling on but really thanks everyone for your positive and corrective comments. :)

[Geoff_R]

I like the opening tension, title sequence... nicely done and gets us amped up and into the story in a solid 30 seconds. Story-wise, I dig the simplicity and I like how you approached it. It's a very easy to understand conflict and perfect for the short film format.

You've got a lot of cool moments in here but I had some issues following some of the performances and that was probably the one thing that bugged me here. First off... the girl, knowing the ending, I feel we were too deliberately misled. She comes across as someone very committed and willing to do whatever is necessary... she's very certain that whatever happened to the brother will result in his transformation. So she'd have to be certain that she would also change... yet she flat out lies to the healthy brother that she is fine... and she also seems very calm and collected during her "what are we going to do... we don't have a choice" bits. I'd prefer to have some legitimate foreshadowing which on a second viewing would make it all make sense... whereas I'm currently feeling like it's a twist sprung from nowhere. Did I miss something? A small detail somewhere?

I like the performance of the injured brother... he goes from a frightened state to an angry one quite well and it's extreme (yes) but I liked it. I'd like it even more though if the healthy brother had been less animated and vocal. He took me out of it at times.

The ending shot is very cool and definitely my favorite bit of the film. Cinematography wise, my only comment would be to light more of the space. It had a little bit of a stage-like feel to it because the background just rolled off into darkness. I couldn't tell if it was shot outside or in a warehouse (from a physical production sense). And I would have liked to have seen some practical lights as well. I think the lack of seeing any lights also gave it that theatrical look to it IMO.

I did enjoy this film and watched it a few times to get a better sense of the whole picture you were trying to paint. It's a good film and worthy of a more in-depth response. Thanks for sharing.

[Troy Ruff]

I like the opening tension, title sequence... nicely done and gets us amped up and into the story in a solid 30 seconds. Story-wise, I dig the simplicity and I like how you approached it. It's a very easy to understand conflict and perfect for the short film format.

You've got a lot of cool moments in here but I had some issues following some of the performances and that was probably the one thing that bugged me here. First off... the girl, knowing the ending, I feel we were too deliberately misled. She comes across as someone very committed and willing to do whatever is necessary... she's very certain that whatever happened to the brother will result in his transformation. So she'd have to be certain that she would also change... yet she flat out lies to the healthy brother that she is fine... and she also seems very calm and collected during her "what are we going to do... we don't have a choice" bits. I'd prefer to have some legitimate foreshadowing which on a second viewing would make it all make sense... whereas I'm currently feeling like it's a twist sprung from nowhere. Did I miss something? A small detail somewhere?

I like the performance of the injured brother... he goes from a frightened state to an angry one quite well and it's extreme (yes) but I liked it. I'd like it even more though if the healthy brother had been less animated and vocal. He took me out of it at times.

The ending shot is very cool and definitely my favorite bit of the film. Cinematography wise, my only comment would be to light more of the space. It had a little bit of a stage-like feel to it because the background just rolled off into darkness. I couldn't tell if it was shot outside or in a warehouse (from a physical production sense). And I would have liked to have seen some practical lights as well. I think the lack of seeing any lights also gave it that theatrical look to it IMO.

I did enjoy this film and watched it a few times to get a better sense of the whole picture you were trying to paint. It's a good film and worthy of a more in-depth response. Thanks for sharing.

thanks Geoff, I did have some thoughts of foreshadowing the womans wound early in, but it was last minute thinking and ran out of time, it wasn't in the original script, but I agree it was lacking that little touch. You didn't miss anything, it just wasn't there. I did however want the girl to play off like she did not get bit, purposefully lying to them because she knew what would happen to her and what he would do to her. Im really glad you like it, thank you for your comments, it always helps. :)

[lyonfilms]

Very slick. I really liked the opening shot in the car. Frenetic, chaotic and cool looking - a great combination. This film just had a look of polish. The initial back-and-forth between the two actors was a bit stiff for me (very clean and "your turn" and "my turn" when I thought there should have been some shouting and stepping on lines). That is, until he starts stammering a bit about it being his brother - then it was natural again.

The dude chained to the wall got better as he became more and more zombied-out. I liked a few of the final shots of him lunging toward his brother - great lens choice! I also really liked the pull away shot from the building at the end. Random but I liked it :)

My only criticism broadly speaking is that the take was fairly conventional zombie movie. Two friends debate whether they should kill someone close to them who has become a zombie - and one of them is hiding the fact they have already been infected. Standard approach I think but very well executed. Cheers!

[sfoster]

Cinematography wise, my only comment would be to light more of the space. It had a little bit of a stage-like feel to it because the background just rolled off into darkness. I couldn't tell if it was shot outside or in a warehouse (from a physical production sense). And I would have liked to have seen some practical lights as well. I think the lack of seeing any lights also gave it that theatrical look to it IMO.

As far as the lighting goes, it was actually lit naturally that way. We just enhanced it a bit. The overhead lighting was from a skylight, and the injured brother was lit with a practical overhead. It was out of frame, but it was there. We thought about hanging a bulb from the ceiling but I think Troy decided it looked to cheesy, and we didn't have time. The sidelight that lit the brick wall was a little flat and untextured looking, but that is what happens when you have such a big soft light. We were slaves to the little 2kw inverters! We didn't have a choice to use a smaller harder source light because the power issue. I disagree that it looks like stage lighting because stage lighting is usually overhead back lit with hard lighting, and then a flat spot lighting specific portions of the stage, but I think I know what you mean. The key difference between stage type lighting and our film is the shadow on the actors faces. I do agree that the light falls off into blackness, but that was a choice. We didn't want people focused on the background. Also the blackness doesn't allow you to know what is out there and adds more tension that something could come at any moment. Also that is, like I said, what the natural lighting did in the room. We could have added a little more depth to the visuals with more light but I don't think it would have added to the film personally, especially without more production design decorating the rest of the set! What we were missing, and Troy had it planned, was a wider shot that showed a little more of where they were, as well as some of the flashback footage of them carrying him up the stairs into the building. I think this would have helped a ton. Thanks for the comments on the lighting! I love hearing them. I'm a lighting guru, so I appreciate anything anyone says about the lighting design!

[sfoster]

Well damn: looks like I'll be moving to Fresno for a bit. :grin: Good to have a city so accessible to filmmakers.
Come on over, er up, er um down. Where are you coming from again. Well either way, We'd love to have you! There are a few of us film fanatics here that actually go to city hall to fight to keep the film commissioners job regularly, so that is what kind of town this is! *MUMBLES "and they call Fresno the armpit of California! Maybe in the summer time!"

[StormFactory]

I though the look of it was really pro. Great movement in the car. Nice camera work and editing. There were only a couple parts that bumped me. Something that took me out was at 1:07 when he said little brother. Maybe it was the makeup but the "little" brother looks at least 10 years older than the older brother. I haven't seen all the comments but I do agree with the one that said that the back and forth between the brothers could have been a little shorter. Your acting saying "I'm not going to hurt you" a couple times I think is what made it seem long because he said them so far apart.

Absolutely love the silhouetted slow stand up of Kira. Very nice. Justin kicked ass on the score.

Great job Troy.

[jasonthewho]

Haven't really read any of the other comments, so sorry if I repeat anything.

This was really good! Looks fantastic, the story comes across clearly, and I think for the most part the performances were strong.

I had a few issues, most of which can be fixed in editing. It seemed like you were letting your actors improvise a little too much. Several moments just go on far too long and are too repetitive. The convo at the beginning where she's telling him to kill his bro isn't as tight as it can, and should, be. And the screaming of the brother, repetitive shouting of "Nick!" grew tiresome and could have been edited way down.

Also the flashback at 2:19 was unnecessary. We got all that (effectively, I might add) in the opening credits. And if it's Nick remembering, that would only really make sense if we saw it from his POV.

The last thing is that the younger brother looked older than his older brother. I wouldn't have cared if the reference to younger brother hadn't been in there. I don't know if you could edit out "younger", but I think it would be a good idea.

Anyways, this short had a great style, a lot of tension, and was strongly executed. Kudos!

[Blaine]

This one was good but I think the running time for what it was was a bit too much. Rather than building tension, you were beginning to lose me in the middle...it just seemed to go on forever and you had me asking him to shoot him already. You had a nice surprise at the end but there was really nothing to hint that it might happen. How come they knew about the brother's injury but missed her?

I loved the sound of the rain but didn't care as much for the CG rain at the beginning and end.

I don't think you needed the flashback. It really didn't do anything for the story other than remind me how long the "waiting to shoot the brother" scene was running.

I thought you did a pretty good job on the transformation and wet blood...not so much on the dried blood on his clothing.

Overall, I liked it, but it could use some tightening.

[Troy Ruff]

This one was good but I think the running time for what it was was a bit too much. Rather than building tension, you were beginning to lose me in the middle...it just seemed to go on forever and you had me asking him to shoot him already. You had a nice surprise at the end but there was really nothing to hint that it might happen. How come they knew about the brother's injury but missed her?

I loved the sound of the rain but didn't care as much for the CG rain at the beginning and end.

I don't think you needed the flashback. It really didn't do anything for the story other than remind me how long the "waiting to shoot the brother" scene was running.

I thought you did a pretty good job on the transformation and wet blood...not so much on the dried blood on his clothing.

Overall, I liked it, but it could use some tightening.

agree on the length of the screaming, a little lengthly, but the rain at the beginning and end was real. No CG... but thank you so much for your review and comments. It really does help me as a filmmaker. :)

[Blaine]

agree on the length of the screaming, a little lengthly, but the rain at the beginning and end was real. No CG... but thank you so much for your view and comments. It really does help me as a filmmaker. :)Real? Wow, it didn't look it. I guess I'll have to retract that complaint.

[sfoster]

Yep, we ran a hose from across the street for water for that shot. I think the fact that some of it was going sideways made it seem fake, but it wasn't.

[Noel Evans]

First, I thought your intro and outro were great. Very well thought out and cut together.

I thought you did a really solid job with everything. Makeup, set design, lighting, camera, sound (minus a couple of minor hot spots) were all pretty good. The acting was a bit like being at the beach, sometimes you'd catch a really nice wave.

And then the story, which I thought was a bit of a missed opportunity for suspense filled drama. What I did get was "oh ffs shoot him already". Around the middle I was getting pretty impatient with it.

Overall a solid effort.

[SwooshFX]

Excellent film, Troy. I liked the story, location and lighting. Everything looked good and sounded good as well. Of course the score was good as well. One thing I noticed right away (which is an easy fix) was the lack of sound when the brother was chained against the wall. The whole time he fights and screams as hard as he does, we never hear the chains rattle. That's a small thing, but adding that sound in that scene would really help, I think. Now, if there is some there and I missed it, then my bad. I thought the fx on the gunshot was good, but there was something about it that seemed a little off. Not sure. Maybe the sound wasn't loud enough. I'll have to go back and watch.

Anyway, the camera is amazing and your shots were excellent. Nice!!

As the sound designer I agree with your assessment on the chains. It really came down to time. However, it could also be said that chains make the most amount of noise when there is slack in them and it is pulled out. After watching the film several times and not having time for chain foley I decided to only add sounds when the slack was pulled out. As far as the gun shot goes, there is ALOT going on at that moment (about 15 tracks) and the music takes up about 50% of the master. So yea, the gunshot could be mixed up a bit but the music would have to be brought down to keep it from peaking. Thanks for your feedback. It will help us to make the film better for festivals to come.

[Horncastle]

Wow, this was very powerful. A simple story, perfect for a short, and you managed to keep on pumping up the tension - the excellent score helped a lot there. The opening sequence, closing shot and close-up at 4.30 were magnificent. Two small criticisms: I don't think you needed the flash back in the middle and the man is all chained up with nice new stainless steel bolts (where did they find those in all that hurry!). Overall a very polished entry, thanks.

[Troy Ruff]

Wow, this was very powerful. A simple story, perfect for a short, and you managed to keep on pumping up the tension - the excellent score helped a lot there. The opening sequence, closing shot and close-up at 4.30 were magnificent. Two small criticisms: I don't think you needed the flash back in the middle and the man is all chained up with nice new stainless steel bolts (where did they find those in all that hurry!). Overall a very polished entry, thanks.

Thanks, I shot this whole film in one day... it was a long day, but we ran out of time, so there were things that I couldn't shot that I wanted to, and some things that I had to make work. I have been hearing a lot of people saying they didn't think the flashback was needed. I was trying to get across that he had been in and out of conciseness and was remembering back to what happened. I intended to shot his being pulled up these stairs into the room and a long hallway shot ( that would have looked amazing!) but we ran out of time. :( But ya I will have to think if its really needed. Im starting to agree with the crowd. Well to say all that, thank you for your comments, I love getting feedback and critiquing of my films. It helps us grow. :)

[bosindy]

I liked this film, thought the male lead was good. thought the mercy part of it did drag a little and needed maybe an additional element or cut down to build the tension more. It stalled a little bit for me. also the makeup initially read a little fake to me. I like the shots at the beginning with the initial dialogue over them to set it all up. The ending was a well done twist and the final pull back was nice touch but I wish it was uniform and a bit slower for emphasis. Nice work and a lot to be proud of.

[REHov520]

this one looked great and was well acted, but i could never get invested in the story. it's a situation i've seen many times before and nothing really new was presented in it. the monster looked good though, and the whole thing felt very professional.

[hoz]

i liked this film. a simple and potentially strong story. good acting. not great only because there are moments where the shooter kinda falls out of it. maybe its because he is trying to act out the same kind of line over and over and thats why it comes off as a bit unnatural - what am i saying - what the hell is natural when your brother turns into a zombie? - well, i don't know !

maybe make the brother revert to some personal moment he had with the shooter while the shooter is holding the gun to his face. something really personal, like when they were boys. and quick cuts back and forth might impress a much stronger sense of urgency.

that said, its a fine short, congrats!

[Gary Sconce]

Yep, we ran a hose from across the street for water for that shot. I think the fact that some of it was going sideways made it seem fake, but it wasn't.

Actually, I paid a sweet little old lady that was just south of the location for the water. The water on the car was the Aftershock Rain Rig, (also used in STRICKEN). The water pressure was fantastic and I shot the final rain with a high velocity nozzle that I rapidly shook to spread the drops. The sideways spray was the bounce spray off the HVX Raincoat we had on the camera on the 21 foot tall HyperCrane head. I loved the pull out the window into the rain, and liked the stormy feel.

[Troy Ruff]

i liked this film. a simple and potentially strong story. good acting. not great only because there are moments where the shooter kinda falls out of it. maybe its because he is trying to act out the same kind of line over and over and thats why it comes off as a bit unnatural - what am i saying - what the hell is natural when your brother turns into a zombie? - well, i don't know !

maybe make the brother revert to some personal moment he had with the shooter while the shooter is holding the gun to his face. something really personal, like when they were boys. and quick cuts back and forth might impress a much stronger sense of urgency.

that said, its a fine short, congrats!

lol, thank you, i actually have already planned a shoot for that exact thing. I will be shooting a flashback of when they are maybe kids or maybe a fews years back, just when they were having a good time together, for when he is aiming the gun at his brother. :) You read my mind, Im glad you confirmed its a good idea. I will be doing that and get it ready for Action on film International Film Festival in June. Thank you for your review, always helpful. :)

[Troy Ruff]

Actually, I paid a sweet little old lady that was just south of the location for the water. The water on the car was the Aftershock Rain Rig, (also used in STRICKEN). The water pressure was fantastic and I shot the final rain with a high velocity nozzle that I rapidly shook to spread the drops. The sideways spray was the bounce spray off the HVX Raincoat we had on the camera on the 21 foot tall HyperCrane head. I loved the pull out the window into the rain, and liked the stormy feel.

ya thanks gary, you are the most amazing key grip, always ready for everything and anything, if we need something, you will build it. :2vrolijk_08: Your crane, rain rig, hyper chariot, works amazingly. Thanks again for all your help.

[Dauntless]

I liked this!... the acting was really good... It just seemed a little dark in some scenes... hard to see.. but overall really good!

[Zim]

One of the best so far.

[Mark T. Aro]

EXCELLENT JOB MAN!

You have really stepped up your game. I wish I could've helped... ah maybe the next one.

[Darkline]

Great short Troy. It seems that the simpler stories in this fest are the ones which are the best told.

I thought you cranked up the tension really well, and while at first I was smirking when the chained guy started moaning, by then end of the sequence he was really beginning to grate on me and I wanted to shoot him myself, so you did that well.

One of the best on show.

[Troy Ruff]

thanks darkline, Im excited to get this to other fests as well. Im glad you enjoyed it. I was hoping people by the end of the brother screaming they would want to shoot him. So thats good you wanted to . :)

[Gary Sconce]

Great short Troy. It seems that the simpler stories in this fest are the ones which are the best told.

I thought you cranked up the tension really well, and while at first I was smirking when the chained guy started moaning, by then end of the sequence he was really beginning to grate on me and I wanted to shoot him myself, so you did that well.

One of the best on show.

Shooting a zombie is a joy anytime! Thanks for the memories Troy!

[Noel Evans]

WOW some really nice shots. Great job. A couple of ouch moments for me that stood out.

0:48

HER What the hell happened out there.
HIM I dont fucking know how could you let this happen.

Always find word repetition is really awkward for actors, and sounds a bit off as well.

The other thing I wanted to mention is when he grabs her throat. I dont think it was necessary and really puts me out momentarily.

I mean no disrespect Troy, but this scenario has been done quite a bit. But I dont mean that to detract from your very worthy version.

Well done.

[Lawsuit_Boy]

This film struck me as well executed. It obvious had a strong crew of artists on board.

To begin, I must admit that I was both happy with and a little uneasy with a lot of the similes between this film and 28 Days Later. The locations (three people riding in a car, one injured; a basement/warehouse-type area), the rain, the situation of survivors having to kill a member of their group(Frank's death), the type of behavior the zombies demonstrate, etc. The girl waiting in the shadow, possibly a zombie, reminded me of a revert of the scene where Jim stands in the shadow after killing the soldier and Selena thinks he's a zombie. In this situation, the person actually IS a zombie! Which was a fun way to turn things on the protagonist.

I'm not mentioning these things as a way to detract from your film, but as a study of how elements of other works transmigrate from piece to piece.

On a technical level, this film is very skillful. I was impressed with the direction of the camera. A shot that stood out was the pull-back from the unconscious man in shackles to a two-shot of the two main characters. That was very effective in setting up the scenario. The lighting felt quite natural and accented the harsh story well. I really enjoyed the shots that set up all three characters in good perspective (zombie on left, protagonist in center, girl at end on frame-right). I'm not a huge fan of rack focusing, but the one from the protagonist to the gun firing was very good. And I must say, the effects work done for the gun shot and the bullet hitting the zombie's skull (not to mention the blood work) was quite realistic and very impressive.

The only thing that really struck me as discordant in this film was actually the acting. I felt like things went a little too rough, too quickly. Some of the shouting seemed a little uncomfortable and not quite reactive like it should be, and I really wasn't a fan of how the protagonist grabbed the girl's neck. Maybe it's the sociologist in me, but I take issue with this implicit act of male domination. It might not be meant that way, but it's just something I was thinking about. It's so much a machismo behavior. I feel like it could have been more effective (and easier on the actor, since he might have been uncomfortable having to grab her neck) if he would have grabbed her shirt or arm. I wanted to sympathize with him but the grabbing of the neck really turned me off of the character. I still felt bad for them all because they performed well from then on, though.

The sound was really strong throughout. The pulsating sound of rain beating down on the building helped tremendously as did the thunder. Heck, a storm is just a great way to set a mood!

Overall, this is definitely one of the stronger entries in the festival. Really fun viewing! :thumbsup:

[Lawsuit_Boy]

WOW some really nice shots. Great job. A couple of ouch moments for me that stood out.

0:48

HER What the hell happened out there.
HIM I dont poo pooing know how could you let this happen.

Always find word repetition is really awkward for actors, and sounds a bit off as well.

The other thing I wanted to mention is when he grabs her throat. I dont think it was necessary and really puts me out momentarily.

I mean no disrespect Troy, but this scenario has been done quite a bit. But I dont mean that to detract from your very worthy version.

Well done.

Hah, we practically gave the same review, Noel. Just a minute or so apart.

[Susanne G.]

Very intriguing story and good acting. The main actor, who killed at the end his brother was fantastic. His way of being indecisive was perfect - it convinced me completely. It must be so difficult to play this part and the actor was that good. The whole story took me from the beginning to the end. The twist at the end when she surprised him was hilarious. Very good work. Compliments!

Susanne

[Matt Sconce]

Congrats making the cut Troy! In the famous words of Jesse from full house...combined into a horrific pun. "Haaaaave Mercy!"

[Troy Ruff]

Congrats making the cut Troy! In the famous words of Jesse from full house...combined into a horrific pun. "Haaaaave Mercy!"

lol thanks matt, Im so glad our hard work pays off, even if not winners of a fest, we still have a great film. Which is most important. Thank you to everyone that voted for me and enjoyed my film. All of this is such a fun and crazy process. :)

[Mark Harris]

Nice piece of work, guys. Then I looked the credits and thought: "No duh nice work, look who's on this thing!"

I would agree with Jon Coy above, the only thing I think really could have used some more work was the acting. They come in on a really high note, very hard for actors to pull off. So I might have spent more time helping them find it.

But overall, I like the simple story for 6 min, the situation, and the shooting was great. Cinematography really stood out for me.

[Troy Ruff]

WOW some really nice shots. Great job. A couple of ouch moments for me that stood out.

0:48

HER What the hell happened out there.
HIM I dont poo pooing know how could you let this happen.

Always find word repetition is really awkward for actors, and sounds a bit off as well.

The other thing I wanted to mention is when he grabs her throat. I dont think it was necessary and really puts me out momentarily.

I mean no disrespect Troy, but this scenario has been done quite a bit. But I dont mean that to detract from your very worthy version.

Well done.



This film struck me as well executed. It obvious had a strong crew of artists on board.

To begin, I must admit that I was both happy with and a little uneasy with a lot of the similes between this film and 28 Days Later. The locations (three people riding in a car, one injured; a basement/warehouse-type area), the rain, the situation of survivors having to kill a member of their group(Frank's death), the type of behavior the zombies demonstrate, etc. The girl waiting in the shadow, possibly a zombie, reminded me of a revert of the scene where Jim stands in the shadow after killing the soldier and Selena thinks he's a zombie. In this situation, the person actually IS a zombie! Which was a fun way to turn things on the protagonist.

I'm not mentioning these things as a way to detract from your film, but as a study of how elements of other works transmigrate from piece to piece.

On a technical level, this film is very skillful. I was impressed with the direction of the camera. A shot that stood out was the pull-back from the unconscious man in shackles to a two-shot of the two main characters. That was very effective in setting up the scenario. The lighting felt quite natural and accented the harsh story well. I really enjoyed the shots that set up all three characters in good perspective (zombie on left, protagonist in center, girl at end on frame-right). I'm not a huge fan of rack focusing, but the one from the protagonist to the gun firing was very good. And I must say, the effects work done for the gun shot and the bullet hitting the zombie's skull (not to mention the blood work) was quite realistic and very impressive.

The only thing that really struck me as discordant in this film was actually the acting. I felt like things went a little too rough, too quickly. Some of the shouting seemed a little uncomfortable and not quite reactive like it should be, and I really wasn't a fan of how the protagonist grabbed the girl's neck. Maybe it's the sociologist in me, but I take issue with this implicit act of male domination. It might not be meant that way, but it's just something I was thinking about. It's so much a machismo behavior. I feel like it could have been more effective (and easier on the actor, since he might have been uncomfortable having to grab her neck) if he would have grabbed her shirt or arm. I wanted to sympathize with him but the grabbing of the neck really turned me off of the character. I still felt bad for them all because they performed well from then on, though.

The sound was really strong throughout. The pulsating sound of rain beating down on the building helped tremendously as did the thunder. Heck, a storm is just a great way to set a mood!

Overall, this is definitely one of the stronger entries in the festival. Really fun viewing! :thumbsup:

Thank you for your in-depth critique. I love getting feedback from viewers, fans or not so much fans. Its what helps us grow. I do see how the neck grab would make you turn your feelings away from him. Thats a great call, I really glad you enjoyed it. It was a month of planning and one long day of shooting, man if i had two days of filming it would have been even better. :) Thanks again and I really appreciate your review.

[EditPhish]

Congrats on being a finalist Troy! IMO, yours was one of the best looking films!

[lawriejaffa]

Righto - very pretty film! But perhaps too pretty - I don't know if such an indoor studio look is too effective in helping to maintain an impression of conflict and incoming disaster.

Funnily enough a form of cinematography that is in itself indicative (expressive) of great control on the part of a dop will have an effect on the audience. They see tamed and controlled visuals - go figure, it ends up lending an uneasy competition with actors trying to build upon a momentum of suspense.

In this case the acting is a little inconsistent (acceptable by par) but at times, its a little relaxed, informal, awkward. The energy doesn't seem to be maintained throughout.

We don't know much of the backstory here, and in a way such a glossy representation of a very well tried and tested formula of horror genre is a bit unimaginative.

That said it is pretty - and the monster our chap becomes and his death is spectacular enough to be rousing - even if the rest seems to slip by a little.

Never the less a deserved finalist and expressive of confident direction and good production talent.

[Troy Ruff]

Righto - very pretty film! But perhaps too pretty - I don't know if such an indoor studio look is too effective in helping to maintain an impression of conflict and incoming disaster.

Funnily enough a form of cinematography that is in itself indicative (expressive) of great control on the part of a dop will have an effect on the audience. They see tamed and controlled visuals - go figure, it ends up lending an uneasy competition with actors trying to build upon a momentum of suspense.

In this case the acting is a little inconsistent (acceptable by par) but at times, its a little relaxed, informal, awkward. The energy doesn't seem to be maintained throughout.

We don't know much of the backstory here, and in a way such a glossy representation of a very well tried and tested formula of horror genre is a bit unimaginative.

That said it is pretty - and the monster our chap becomes and his death is spectacular enough to be rousing - even if the rest seems to slip by a little.

Never the less a deserved finalist and expressive of confident direction and good production talent.


Thanks for your review. most of the critiques are similar throughout my posts so Im really going to go back and think about some of the areas spoken and maybe tweak some stuff to make it flow a little better. Thanks again.

[Gary Sconce]

Hah, we practically gave the same review, Noel. Just a minute or so apart.

Seems your review 'TRANSMIGRATED' between you two! Hehehe. :Drogar-BigGrin(DBG)

Troy, CONGRATULATIONS on making the second cut! Well done! :kali:

[Troy Ruff]

Seems your review 'TRANSMIGRATED' between you two! Hehehe. :Drogar-BigGrin(DBG)

Troy, CONGRATULATIONS on making the second cut! Well done! :kali:

Thanks man, Im happy we made it as well, we'll have to wait and see for the next round to see about 1,2, and 3rd. :) Best of luck to everyone.

[Matt Sconce]

I am excited to see the festival cut of this!

[blaremedia]

Great job Troy. Ian and Nicole and I have watched it a few times. I wish my RED would have been here to borrow but it looked great and probably wouldn't have made that much difference. I'm glad you made it to the finals. I think you definitely have a good chance.

[Troy Ruff]

Great job Troy. Ian and Nicole and I have watched it a few times. I wish my RED would have been here to borrow but it looked great and probably wouldn't have made that much difference. I'm glad you made it to the finals. I think you definitely have a good chance.

Thanks man! Red would have been nice, maybe next time. HXV worked out great as always. Hope your movie went well.

[blaremedia]

I tired to get enough posts without just spamming but failed. I guess it wouldn't have mattered much. I thought dispatch was well done but very unsatisfying. I thought yours had much more of a story arc. oh well, it is about progression and Mercy definitely shows that. congratulations again.

Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.
- Theodore Roosevelt

Justin McAleece
http://www.redonerental.net
Justin@BLAREMedia.net

[Slimothy]

I tired to get enough posts without just spamming but failed. I guess it wouldn't have mattered much. I thought dispatch was well done but very unsatisfying. I thought yours had much more of a story arc. oh well, it is about progression and Mercy definitely shows that. congratulations again.

Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.
- Theodore Roosevelt

Justin McAleece
http://www.redonerental.net
Justin@BLAREMedia.net


I agree, Dispatch was kinda weak.

Nice job guys. Troy we should get together and work on something!

Well done.

[Troy Ruff]

I agree, Dispatch was kinda weak.

Nice job guys. Troy we should get together and work on something!

Well done.

thanks guys, it would be great to do something together. Its nice working with fellow DVXUSERS. I have pretty big project coming up this summer, Ill let you know more details when it gets closer. Thanks everyone for your support and feedback. It really helps. :)

[bwwd]

I dont know ,i think acting was weird here,theyre shouting standing so close to each other and it looks very cheesy and kinda fake,or is it the sound quality maybe ?
Some lines are not needed like "hes my little brother", i normally dont judge scripts but cinematography here was good beside some mistakes in editing,i would start this differently because at the very beginning its visible that actors are just acting,i would make this like hes coming back from somewhere and sees his brother and then he starts to asking questions ,because right now when it is how it is i feel that its made for audience to let them know about the plot and it sounds weird/cheesy when theyre explaining what they were doing, it doesnt really matter and they didnt had to do that.
Too much screaming/shouting here and i agree about grabbing woman's neck,i felt antypathy for male character from this moment.
And F**ck, not enough f**ck in this short film.<sarcasm>